A/N: Oh my, where has time gone? Where has half of 2020 gone? Based on how it's going, I'm hoping 2020 will be done soon. Needless to say, it's been awhile. How's everyone doing? I hope you're all staying safe during covid-19 and following the guidelines if you're going outdoors!

I've been trying for awhile to write to continue this story, but finding time for it has become difficult since the whole pandemic began. Without going into too much detail, all business closed except for essential workers, and I'm currently working in an essential service. I've just been working up to 6 days a week to make money because I need to, so I could only write bit by bit.

In any case, I hope you'll forgive me for taking awhile. Things are starting to move in a positive direction (hopefully it says that way), so I'll do my best not to take forever to update again!

Without further ado, the twenty-seventh chapter of Forbidden Love!

DISCLAIMER: I don't.

FYI! Just so there's no confusion :)

" Quotes "

" Thoughts "

~ 27 ~

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[From Zelda's Perspective]

I'm excited; Livid. Insert any positive emotion you can and I'm feeling it. My father received word last week that the war has concluded and the soldiers are on their way back after a hard fought victory; the enemy conceded to King Osfala's advances. I've waited... for so long. Almost a year, I reckon.

I woke up on my own because I could barely sleep; my own excitement kept me up all night! They're coming back today.

He's coming back today.

Link's finally coming home, and I want to be the one who gives him the biggest welcome and while looking the best I can in public. Of course, a "private" welcome is long overdue and will happen later, but I want him to know how happy I am to see him right when he comes through the gates of the castle.

Malon and Hilda are extremely excited too, for similar and different reasons. Malon's happy that there won't be any more violence and that her friend would finally be coming back, while Hilda, though happy that Link, who became her friend through one outing together was returning, was mostly happy that her father was victorious in his endeavour and looked forward to a more positive future for her country.

With the help of the maids, Hilda and I got dressed. Going for a new look, I decided to model my appearance like my ancestor who, at a young age, ruled the kingdom all on her own, along with the aid of the Hero of Hyrule who could travel from Hyrule to Lorule using fissures... at least, that's what the legend says. It's quite similar to Hilda's outfit actually, with the biggest difference is mine being pink and hers being purple. Speaking of the legend, I wish my Link could do that; he'd be able to come back and see me all the time. Also, I went from being brunette to blonde, so why not change my whole outfit anyway? Plus, changing up my outfit every once in awhile makes me feel refreshed.

This new look is quite comfortable, actually. It's pretty loose, short sleeved and my boots are open toed which is great since I'm not a huge fan of wearing socks or stockings. I have a cape too, capes are pretty cool. I feel like I could, well, fight people in this outfit. Maybe like, jump and kick people really really hard. I don't know.

Anyway, as I was being assisted to get dressed, I looked to my side and noticed Malon getting dressed by maids as well. Despite her attire being simple and extremely easy to put on on her own, I asked the maids to do it for her so she isn't the only one getting dressed by herself. I have to admit, it was quite the sight; she became very bashful and shy, with her cheeks becoming rosy pink while she was getting undressed by the maids and keeping her embarrassment as they continued to dress her.

There were some maids that helped impa get dressed as well. Every morning they assist her for the sake of it taking less time. Initially, Impa dressed herself every morning but she'd have to wake up earlier just so she can wake me up at my usual time. It was just too time consuming and I felt bad for her, since she was sleep deprived enough. Things have gotten better for her since the news of my attackers being dealt with, though; her insomnia gradually subsided. However, I requested her to be assisted every morning so she can get some extra sleep since she lost so much of it over the past year. Impa's a very independent woman, so knowing her she adamantly refused the help by saying she can do it herself quickly enough... which was a lie. So I easily solved it by ordering her to accept it and she hasn't complained since.

Because she's not allowed to, of course.

I can act demanding when I want to, I'm Princess Zelda! Plus, I'm doing something nice for her so I think my temporary bratty attitude can be excused.

My guardian was the first one completely dressed after Malon, so she came into my room and sat aside to wait for me and Hilda. Once we finished, we all walked outside to the front of the castle. Malon then ran to her father who was waiting nearby, and Hilda left to stand with her mother for a bit. It wasn't just us out there, though; I saw the families of the soldiers who were making their highly anticipated return. They were all invited to the front of the castle grounds to welcome their loved ones back. Nearby myself was my mother and father, standing together with Hilda and Queen Seres who were engaged in conversation about something I didn't listen in on.

I continued to scan the crowd, and soon enough I found the people I sought; the civilians of Ordon Village and Anju, the head maid who was excused from work for the morning because of the return of her husband Kafei. I couldn't help but smile as she waited with Lana being held in one arm, and her other holding Gonzo's hand. It must've been hard for her; having to take care of two kids on her own while working at the castle. I could see the relief and excitement in her expression, whether it's the fact that she can get help taking care of her kids again, or the fact that her husband is finally coming home... actually, both. I'm sure Anju would happily live any kind of life as long as she's with her full family.

I then turned my attention to the villagers of Link's hometown. I managed to make eye contact with Uli despite being so far away, who then raised one arm up in the air and waved at me, soon getting the attention of all the villagers to do the same. I smiled warmly and returned their wave with a wave of my own.

Soon enough, the other families caught on to what was happening and eventually everyone was waving in my direction giving me one big wave of, well, waves. Everyone around me, including myself and my parents, let out a chuckle. I responded with a regal but welcoming wave and a nod of approval, thanking them.

"Are you ready?" Impa asked, standing beside me.

"Calm, cool, and collected," I chimed before taking a deep breath. "Can't you tell?"

Impa then brought her face extremely close to mine and whispered softly, placing her mouth about an inch from my ear lobe, "I know you missed him, but don't lose control of yourself here or you'll find yourself in a situation that not even I can save you from."

The fact that she was so close to my face actually made my heart skip a beat. Despite the fact that she's undeniably beautiful and I've kissed her cheek on multiple occasions, Impa's face rarely ever gets close to mine on her own accord. Not to mention the elegant sound of her voice combined with the feeling of her soft breaths tickling my ear as she spoke to me felt like it sent an electric current through my whole body.

How could a beautiful woman with so much physical power and ability have such a profound, modulated voice that I could listen to all day? How is she even single still? Well, maybe the fact that she could kill you instantly if you wrong her... Not saying she would, but there's always the possibility.

Maybe that scares men away.

It certainly doesn't scare me away however... if my love life doesn't work out then maybe her and I could—

Oh my, I need Link to come back already; the affection I've been trying to bottle in for so long is starting to leak out.

I don't find myself romantically attracted to women, but that was really endearing. I'll never tell her though, probably.

"Right, I'll be sure to remember that." I replied.

She's right. I actually wanted to jump into his arms and kiss him, just like the significant others of the rest of the soldiers will... but I can't. It's forbidden. The fact that the love I'm experiencing is forbidden hasn't truly hit me until now...

But the fact that it's forbidden makes it better. I'm not allowed to have it, so I want it more. They won't let me have it, but I'm having it anyway. Rules are made to be broken, right?

Well, not really... but I can break them... to a degree? Actually I can't... but I will! In a way that isn't too bad, I think? Love can't be a crime, right? Right?...

I lied; I'm neither calm, cool, or collected. I'm well presented on the outside but a complete mess on the inside.

Keep your cool, Zelda! You're in public! You're a year older and a year wiser.

Yeah well I also waited for a whole damn year for him to come back so excuuuuuuse me, Princess.

Anyway!

We all waited for quite some time; we received word that the carriages containing King Osfala and the rest of the soldiers have entered town and were making their way to the Castle. Once they entered Castle Town, their pace slowed down for obvious reasons, but they also took their time so that the townspeople can see them and appreciate them for their hard work. Throughout the town, the roads have been barricaded in such a way that there is a clear path for all the carriages to arrive safely. It's reminiscent of a parade, with the residents waiting along the sides and the soldiers going through the middle.

Even with my eyes closed I'd be able to sense the anticipation of everyone in the air; they've taken so much time we've become impatient.

Then there it was, the sounds of carriages rolling across the road and rhythmic clicking sounds of all the horses' hooves getting louder and louder as it came closer. I could hear the laughs and cheers from not only everyone who was waiting, but from the knights as well who hastily exited their respective carriages to run to their loved ones that they haven't seen for so long.

I did my best to find Link in the crowd but I was unable to find him; maybe he was just buried in the madness of his comrades and their company. So I waited.

And waited.

And waited…

Where is he? I'm getting nervous. I see Kafei reuniting with his wife and kids which made my heart melt with joy, but he's Link's best friend so I'd assume they'd be together… But he's nowhere to be seen.

"Do you see him, Impa?…" I asked nervously.

She shook her head, "I don't. His weird hat makes him stand out wherever he goes so I'm surprised."

"I see…" I replied, sighing.

"He'll present himself to you at his first opportunity, don't worry." She reassured.

I'll do my best to believe her.

I put my best fake smile on as I continued to observe the scene. My heart rate is rapidly increasing and I'm experiencing a form of anxiety I've never experienced before. Where is he?

"Have you seen him?" I heard an angelic voice ask, but the sudden sound startled me so I flinched.

"No, I haven't... have you?" I responded, looking down at the ground.

"I've been looking around, but I haven't yet. But he'll show himself for sure! He's probably planning to make some sort of grand entrance or something," Malon chirped. "Either that or he's helping someone out! He's a pretty nice guy."

I grinned slightly and nodded, "You're right; he's very kindhearted."

So I waited a little longer…

Then a lot longer…

At short distance away I see a man approach me, which had me excited until I realized it was just Kafei. No offence! He's a really nice guy, but I just really want to see Link.

Once he made his way to me, he respectfully bowed, "Your Majesty."

"Sir Kafei, welcome back." I replied, smiling, "I am pleased to see you are in good health."

Usually we'd have a more informal greeting, but since we were in public we had to keep it as formal as possible.

"Welcome back, Kafei!" Malon excitedly added.

"Thank you, Miss Malon." He replied, smiling at her.

Since when do they know each other? Have they met before? Well, he is Link's best friend after all, I can safely assume they've crossed paths before.

"Princess, I um, I have something I need to tell you…" He slowly began.

"What is it?" I curiously asked. Maybe after he relays the news to me I can ask him where Link is, I just want to see him already!

In my peripheral vision, I saw Impa's eyes shoot open as she quickly placed her hand over her mouth.

Why did she react like that? What did Impa figure out? What does she know that I don't?… Now I'm so scared.

Kafei paused after I asked him the question for a short moment, but it felt like an eternity. Just tell me already! My heart's about to beat out of my chest.

Kafei then reached into the leather satchel that he was carrying and pulled out a long, blue cloth.

Wait a second… I recognize that!

That's the scarf Link wears that I made—

No…

No!

NO!

He's not telling me what I think he's telling me! This isn't a funny joke.

"I'm sorry…" Kafei quietly apologized with a quivering voice as he extended his arms, handing the scarf to me.

"Y-you're not serious, are you?" I stuttered, refusing to believe it.

But I had no choice to once he looked up at me with the pain and sorrow in his eyes, along with a stream of tears.

"Oh my god…" Malon softly blurted while sniffling, placing her hands over her face and beginning to sob.

I look to my right and see Impa with her eyes closed and her head draped, slowly shaking her head in disbelief.

"Y-you're all in on this joke, huh?" I retorted. "This isn't funny so I order you to stop... I'm begging you."

I felt Impa's hand slowly grasp mine, "I'm sorry… I don't sense his presence here…"

Upon hearing that my body froze completely. I didn't know how to act, I didn't know how to react. I can't cry here, I can't show weakness in front of the citizens of Hyrule. A royal figure cannot cry in front of her subjects, but I can cry when I'm by myself… But I can't leave.

"Thank you for letting us know," Impa suddenly responded. "Spend time with Anju and your kids, I'll take it from here."

He slowly nodded and respectfully bowed before making his exit. But I didn't see him bow, my eyes were just blurry.

"Zelda…" Impa quietly consoled, holding my hand tighter.

I know Malon wanted to just take me in her arms and hold me tight, but because she's a commoner she knew she couldn't touch me like that in public. Just the fact that she was standing beside me like this was scandalous enough.

It's slowly starting to sink in. I see nothing, I hear nothing… Everything is just, blank. I am nothing. I'm crushed. Broken. I feel like someone just ripped my heart out and crushed it.

But I can't cry, I won't cry, not in front of everyone. I'll conceal it as long as I can. I'm Princess Zelda Medina Nohanansen-Hyrule, daughter of King Daphnes and Queen Leina and future ruler of this land.

I'm also Princess Zelda, the one who innocently fell in love with her knight, but he was sent away in battle by her father and will now never return.

I feel like the world is collapsing on my shoulders. I want the world to collapse on me. I don't want to be here anymore. I can't. Once my parents began talking about my future and having to get married, I only imagined being married to one person… And that person was someone who my parents would never approve of; someone they couldn't approve of, even if they wanted to. But they don't have to worry about that, because now they won't have to approve of it.

Because he won't be here to ask for it.

This isn't fair. Life isn't fair. My life is full of fame, fortune, glamour, and riches… But with all those things combined, it doesn't provide happiness. I'm not happy.

When was I ever truly happy?

After I met him, of course.

Before I met him, I was lonely. Growing up, my company was mainly Impa, who I genuinely love dearly. But that wasn't enough. Malon and Hilda were always around when I was younger, but as a teenager I haven't been able to see them nearly often for years until Hilda visited.

But what about now? Since he's gone…

Where's my happiness? Don't I deserve to be happy? I followed everything my parents have asked of me even if it was against my will… I do my best on a day by day basis and my heart is full of love for everyone I know and for my country.

So why can't the goddesses grant me any type of happiness? What have I done wrong?

Why did you have to take him? Why did you take him away from me?

He was an honest man who just wanted to make a living. He was kind, sweet, and generous. He was so young with a whole life to live, whether or not it would be with me. He always helped others and everyone around the castle loved him. He even went to help my best friend at her ranch for an entire day even though they've only met once prior. He was sent to war, he didn't choose to go.

His freedom of choice was taken away from him, and now his life.

Tell me, are you happy now? Does my pain satisfy you? I am supposedly a mortal reincarnation of the Goddess Hylia, and this is how I am treated? Is this some sort of trial? Has divine retribution been bestowed upon me? Was an innocent, albeit blasphemous, love worth taking someone's life away? Had I known he would lose his life for loving me, I would've rejected his advances... As hard as it would have been.

The sound of the numerous cheers from the crowd snapped me back to reality. It seems my father, along with Hilda's, concluded a speech welcoming the return of the soldiers.

"So tonight, tonight we celebrate! We celebrate our victory, and we celebrate the lives of our brothers who we may have lost, but will never be forgotten!" My father announced, which invited more cheers from the crowd.

I took that as my queue to leave, and that's what I did. I yanked my hand away from Impa's and started off with a stiff, brisk walk knowing Impa would stay a respectful distance behind me, but once I got inside, I ran. I ran as fast as I could.

"Zelda!" I heard Impa call from behind.

But I didn't stop for her. Hearing her voice made me run faster. I ran faster than I ever have, reaching a speed I didn't know I could hit. All the tears I've been holding back began to fall. Ignoring everything and everyone I passed by, I went straight to my room, aggressively shut the door, and locked it.

Slamming both clenched fist on the door I just shut, I screamed as loud as I could. The pain was eating me alive and I began wailing my heart out, dropping to the floor. This pain is unbearable; my grasp on reality is slipping and the only hand that could bring me back will no longer be there for me to take.

An abundance of different emotions hit me all at once again; pain, sorrow, regret, despair, sadness, betrayal, hopelessness, anger…

Anger.

I'm angry, but who am I angry at? The goddesses. They did this to me. They're all against me because I'm only a mortal incarnation of Hylia and not the divine entity they wanted.

Who am I kidding? It's not the fault of the goddesses… Rather, he is at fault.

King Daphnes Nohansen-Hyrule, my own father.

[From Impa's perspective]

I can't believe what I just heard. No, I refuse to believe it. Until I see solid proof I won't believe it. He wouldn't die that easily. He'd be the last one in the army to let his life go...

At least, I hope. I usually have a pretty good intuition about things but this, this I don't know.

I took Zelda's hand in mine and held it tight. I can't imagine what's going through her mind right now. No, I don't want to imagine it.

While King Daphnes was delivering his speech, I tried to think of the best way to console Zelda, but I just couldn't figure it out.

Once his speech was done, I felt her throw my hand away and begin walking, causing me to jump a bit due to the sudden gesture. I followed a respectful distance away but made sure she was in my sight.

All of a sudden, she began sprinting.

I called for her as she ran. I had no idea she was capable of moving that quickly, especially in heels, but it didn't stop her. I did my best to close the gap between us and almost caught her, but the head start she got really made all the difference. The princess ran into her room and slammed the door shut, making sure to lock it behind her. Once I got there, I knocked numerous times on the door when I reached it, begging her to open up.

But all I heard were screams... and they were loud, agonizingly loud. I could feel her pain as she wailed and let all her emotions out... I don't know how to save her. I don't know what to do.

I placed my back on her room door and slid down to the ground, taking a seat and burying my face in my hands. I'm sad too, I really took a liking to that kid and I truly believed he was perfect for my Zelda.

I snapped out of my own sorrow due to another one of Princess Zelda's agonizing wails. Right now Zelda needs me more than anyone else, and I need to be with her.

I jumped to my feet and ran into what was but will no longer be Link's room and then to his balcony, quickly hopping over and making my way to Zelda, dropping to my knees and wrapping her tightly in my arms once I got to her. She was a royal mess, and rightfully so.

She held me tight, and over time her grip only became tighter.

"It hurts so much…" She cried, while her face was buried in my chest.

I began to gently stroke her hair, "I know baby, I know... Let it all out."

So she did, and I stayed with her. For a long time.

She cried, screamed, gripped my clothes tightly, gripped me tightly, and went through a whole bunch of tissues. She was so distraught that she probably wouldn't have used a single one if I didn't hand her them.

Eventually I brought her to her bed and took a seat beside her. I placed my back against one of her pillows to use as a backrest against the bed frame, then lifted an arm to invite her in, which she accepted.

She clung onto me like she used to when she was a little girl, wrapping her arms around me and placing her legs over mine, then placed her head on me.

We didn't speak for what felt like forever but was only about an hour. I didn't know what to say to her and I'm sure she didn't want to talk at all. Every once in awhile Malon and Hilda would pop their heads through the door to check on us. The first time they came in, I told them to come back later, and they obliged. The next few time's I just gave them a thumbs up, and they would nod and take their leave.

I'm sure once they get the opportunity to come and comfort Zelda, they'll take it at first glance.

The feast and celebration for the return of King Daphnes' soldiers is tonight, and knowing Zelda, the fact that they're celebrating while the man she loved passed away would only hurt her more. Which is understandable, because I'm sure all families of the brave lives lost feel the same way.

Suddenly, I felt Zelda stir then lift her head off my shoulder.

"I want to talk to them…" She voiced quietly.

"To who?" I asked, curious.

"My parents."

"About what?"

"I just.. I just need to." She explained.

"Alright. But I'm coming too."

She gave me a light nod and sat up, looking down at her bedsheets with an expression I couldn't read. I made my way off of her bed and gestured for her to get off as well. Once she stood up, we fixed her appearance to be more presentable before making our way out. When I opened the door, she wrapped one of her arms around mine without saying a word.

Once we made our exit, I saw Hilda and Malon sitting in the hallway outside of her room. The two maidens sprung to their feet once the Princess of Hyrule made her long-awaited appearance. I beckoned the pair to approach before making Zelda let go of my arm and taking a step back to let them have their moment with her.

I used the allocated time to gather my thoughts; I have no idea what Zelda is going to say to her parents. The loss of Link is still fresh in her mind, and I'm sure her thoughts can get completely irrational. Not to mention she's still a teenager and can be quite sensitive. I guess the best thing I can do is to make sure that she doesn't say anything she'll regret. But even if she says something that could possibly be out of line, am I in any position to stop her? I'm not sure.

For me, it's not really about what's wrong and right… It's about whether or not what's right is what's for the best.

As I feel deep into my thoughts, I felt a light but firm grip on my forearm, taking me back into reality.

"Let's go." She stated flatly but very quiet.

I nodded and lead the way. During the walk to the quarters of the King and Queen of Hyrule, I kept wondering about what Zelda had in mind to say to them. She didn't speak a single word to me the entire way and I have no idea what she's thinking.

I have a keen eye for many things, but coping with loss is something I'm not entirely familiar with... but I consider that a good thing.

Before I knew it, we were standing in front of the doors to their chamber. As I stared at the large double doors, my heart began palpitating. I don't know what to be nervous about, and that in and of itself is making me nervous.

"Who is it?" I heard Queen Leina reply from the other side of the door.

"Zelda."

The door opened immediately followed by Queen Leina pulling her daughter in for a tight embrace.

Once her mother concluded her greeting, Zelda's father approached and embraced her as well, which she did not return.

"Come in, sweetheart," said King Daphnes. "You as well, Impa."

I bowed to the rulers of the land and respectfully followed Zelda into their chamber, keeping a respectful distance.

"What is it you need, Zelda?" Daphnes asked.

"How can we be of help to you, my love? Please, take a seat." Added the Queen of Hyrule.

Zelda didn't move from where she was standing.

"Are you satisfied, father?" Zelda began.

King Daphnes was taken aback, "about what, sweetheart?"

"The results."

"Ideally I'd have suffered no losses, but we were victorious and numbers that were lost are minor."

I swallowed my spit, I don't like the direction this conversation is heading.

"I see. So he was just dispensable to you all this time, is that it?"

"Zelda, that's not what I meant—"

"Why did you send him?…" Zelda growled, tears beginning to form in her eyes.

You'd think at this point she would run out of them, but it looks like she has an endless supply.

"Sweetheart I didn't expect that he would—"

"Your losses may have been minor… But what about mine?!" She screamed at the top of her lungs during the latter half of her statement.

Zelda's body began to shake. I can tell she intended to keep her composure while talking to her parents but she's quickly succumbing to her emotions. Before I could step in, Queen Leina walked up to her and took one of Zelda's hands in both of hers.

"I'm sorry, my love…" Her mother sympathized, squeezing her hands tight.

"I'm mourning the loss of Link as well, Zelda." Her father replied.

"From being sent countless suitors despite my unwillingness to having an appointed knight bestowed upon me only to have him removed in an instant... does my well being ever cross your mind?"

"Zelda, I—"

"Link was a special talent and was beloved by all in the castle, but most of all, he was my appointed knight. He was someone I've seen and spoken to on a daily basis. Whenever he wasn't completing any tasks or duties, his presence would be with me. You personally assigned him to be by my side and then you sent him away! And now… now—"

Zelda took short pause to try to compose herself, but let out a fair share of sniffles.

"Now he's gone… Just like that. I loved hi—" She began, pausing after a hiccup.

My eyes shot open.

"His company…"

I let out a silent sigh of relief, who knows what could've happened if she admitted it to her father.

"I am unable to forgive you for this, father," she sternly stated. "Even if I could find it in my heart to do so, I will not… So from this moment on, King Daphnes Nohansen-Hyrule, I resent you… and I will continue to do so, for as long as I live."

"Zelda please—" King Daphnes pleaded before getting cut off.

That is all I have to say." Zelda interrupted before respectfully bowing her head to her parents and hastily making her exit.

"Oh dear…" Queen Leina sighed before taking a seat on her bed, looking down at the floor.

"Impa." The Queen of Hyrule called.

"Yes, Your Majesty?" I replied.

"I understand this is Zelda's first time having to cope with the loss of a close comrade. Be sure to keep a close eye on her to make sure she refrains from doing anything she will regret in the future." She stated.

I nodded, "I understand. I will make sure Zelda is well taken care of."

"I'm sure she will regain her beautiful smile," Queen Leina began. "But until then, please don't let her out of your sight."

"Her words leave a deep cut in my heart, but they were only spoken because her mind is currently tainted by her emotions. I am sure I will be able to mend our relationship once her pain settles." King Daphnes added.

"Thank you Impa, you may exit." She concluded.

I bowed to both rulers of the land before taking my leave.

Little did we know, the happy, bubbly Princess Zelda we all knew and loved would not return. She lost Link, but along with that she lost her smile.

After this day, her expression remained stoic and her words lifeless.

[Third person narrative]

"Open your eyes…" A voice softly spoke.

His eyes slowly began to open, less than halfway.

"Wake up, Link." The voice softly called again.

He slowly blinked a few times before his eyes opened completely, staring at a ceiling. He had no recollection of anything and felt extremely weak.

The owner of the voice looked over him, coming into his view as he blankly continued to stare at the ceiling above him.

Big, crimson red doe eyes along with a pair of round red glasses.

Familiar, he reckoned, kind of…

A/N: Things are stirring up! I'm excited! Again, if there are any typos I'm sorry! I'll find them I promise!

[Thanking the reviewers]

GreenEggAndHam: Thank you so much, I appreciate it! I'm sorry for the cliffhanger then the multiple month wait, but I hope you enjoyed this chapter as well :

Samiya Jina: Thank you! I'm glad you were able to find enjoyment despite Zelda being sad! Hopefully you can find enjoyment with her sadness here hehe

EricTheRed4444: That's a good guess! I can't say whether you're right or wrong but it's always good to follow your gut ;)

Bchange: Oh man it's killing me too!

SPXCTRESOUL: Thank you! This story was a little project I made for fun in high school because I loved to read ZeLink fics, so I decided to write my own. Deciding to shut it down always made me sad when I thought about it, so my plan going forward is to keep writing when I have time until I finish it. In regards to the length of the story, I'm not entirely sure about the exact length of it, but there's still a good portion of it left.

Kumihime: Thanks! Whether or not it's actually her, I can't say yet!

Power of Din: Thank you! When I was writing it I thought it was super cute too omg

RJeezy: Thanks a lot! I hope you enjoyed this one too :)

Rain: Thank you so much for the compliment! I do this for fun but it means a lot to me.

Teudoongie: I take it you're a twice fan too, based on your name haha

Cool guy: Thanks, you're a cool guy!

Hello 'Jo Mama: Thank you so much! I truly appreciate it!

GamerAJ1025: Thank you! And I totally agree, I love divulging into Impa's emotions as well! She's definitely a fun character for me to write. I'll do my best to power through it until the end, no matter how long it takes! Though I hope it doesn't take too long haha

Oracle of Hylia: Thanks a bundle! Whether or not he does, you'll soon find out ;)

SinfulLoud: Thank you! I hope you enjoy this chapter as well, and I'm sorry for the wait!

StoutMarshmallow: Thanks a lot! I appreciate it! Seeing how much my writing has changed as I got older is super interesting to me; it's nice to see how I was when I was younger.

Yo: My upload time is very inconsistent, but I do it when I can! I'm hoping to do them with less time in between updates in the future.

SonOfRosalina: Firstly I'd like to say thank you for taking the time to read my story and leaving a detailed review about your thoughts!

In regards to Zelda, I wrote her out as a dorky, romance-loving high school kid who only wanted Zelda to find some love in her life LOL. It's been 5 years since then and I'm using the time now to transition her personality to take a turn in a different direction. It was my intended plan from the start but unfortunate events caused me to choose to stop writing. But now I'm finally continuing!

In regards to Link, same thing! I envisioned him as some perfect knight in shining armour type man when I was younger. I thought of them as like some sort of fairy tale type people, but of course as I got older my vision on those personality traits changes. I'm at a transitional point in my story where things begin to change, which also fits in with my change during the lengthy time period I was away from this story.

And for Impa, I'm mostly happy about way my younger self wrote her. I mean, of course there are some things I want to tweak a bit about her but other than that for the most part she's written kind of how I want her to be. Not completely, but she'll get there. I know she's supposed to be this, supposed to be that, but at the same time, it's fan fiction. It's non-canon and I'm free to do as I please with characters, the way I see fit to satisfy myself. I wanted her to be more than what she's canonically written as, because I don't believe she gets enough glory as a side character who spends more time with Zelda more than anyone else.

In regards to your last point about side stories, my story as a whole isn't complete yet! I still have loose ends that still need to be tied which they will be in time, I won't forget about them, I promise.

All in all I appreciate the detailed constructive criticism about my story, because it will indeed help improve my writing and story telling moving forward. I would like to say that this story started with a young girl who let her imagination run wild and I'll continue to let that little girl inside run wild to help me complete the story. It's far from perfect and even at its completion it will probably still be that way, but if there are people out there that enjoy my story for what it is as much as I loved writing it, then I've completed what I set out to do!

codywhite162: Thank you so much! I hope you're staying safe as well!

Guest: Ooo when I saw it I was so excited! I'm personally a fan of long hair so when I saw Zelda's haircut I was initially unsure about whether or not I liked it, but after thinking about it I came to the conclusion that if she cut her hair, then there's a chance she could be playable! Shorter hair is easier to animate after all. I can't wait for for an official release date to be announced! I'd pre-order it first day no doubt.

Guest: You got your wish, I'm back! Haha just kidding, but thank you for the review! I appreciate it. Sorry for the long wait :)

Special thanks to: 666666666666, Link128370, 666, & RUPEE.

I live for cliffhangers! :)

Once again, I hope you and your families are staying safe during the pandemic! Hopefully we'll all be able to go back to our normal routines soon.

Seems like we'll be seeing a familiar face next chapter! But until then, Airi checkin' out, peace! o7