Hello lovebugs! I am back with more Zelda fanfiction!
I was honestly at war with myself over whether or not I should publish this because I edited it a bunch of times and I am just not satisfied but part of me felt the urge to publish it...Call it instinct if you wish.
Not to mention I remember there was a Link/Ilia fanfiction I read when I was 14 that has since been deleted and I am just bummed out, that was a great read. So this is a matter of me taking matters in my own hands.
Also I should mention this fanfic references "The Young Knight and the Village Girl" a few times so be sure to read that one first...Pretty please.
I truly hope someone enjoys this because I am putting a courageous foot forward publishing this, anyway on to the disclaimer.
Disclaimer: Legend of Zelda Twilight Princess belongs to Nintendo, this is just a fanfic written by a fan.
A young boy, merely sixteen years of age, rode throA young boy, merely sixteen years of age, rode through Faron Woods on his gentle mare companion. Of course, this young boy became a young man after his unforgettable journey from saving the world from turmoil.
Everything turned around in weeks after years of living a quiet life in a beautiful little village. He was a hero now, and everyone knew that, but he had no desire for fame or fortune.
His heart raced as he rode Epona. He felt freer and happier that the weight of his responsibility of being a hero was lifted from his shoulders.
But he did have a choice.
After Midna left, Link and Zelda rode back to Hyrule Castle. The princess was happily welcomed back by all the servants. To Link's surprise, the princess who always seemed stoic to him had a slight smile on her face as she greeted her enthusiastic servants.
She gestured to her servants to calm down. "All of you should really be thanking our chosen hero," Zelda turned to Link.
Link gasped. The princess seemed to also have a devious side. The servants clamored around Link, and a few of them bowed down and spoke their gratitude.
"I am going to request an audience," the princess said. "Link, can you please stay here a bit longer?"
Link nodded. "Of course."
The princess left, and the servants told Link he could have anything he desired, food, antiques, but Link shook his head and thanked the servants anyway.
A little later, Link was called to the throne room where Zelda stood by her throne, and the knights of Hyrule stood by as Link walked. When Link walked up to the princess, the princess made a slight bow.
"Link, hero of Hyrule," Zelda started.
A small smile formed on Link's face.
"You deserve nothing but good after the brave sacrifice you made for our kingdom," Zelda said.
"Yes, long live Link the hero!" One of the knights cried.
The knights cheered for the mighty warrior with the green hat, but Link stayed humble.
Zelda waited for the knights' cheers to soften. She placed a hand over her chest.
"But I wanted to ask one more question," Zelda said.
"Huh?" Link said.
Zelda smiled down upon him. "I wanted to ask if you wanted to become a knight of the royal guard, for you proved to be the strongest hero not only in physical strength but in the heart."
The knights waved their spears and swords and cheered again. Some of them were starting to encourage Link to say yes.
Link didn't know what to say at first. A taller and older knight placed a hand on Link's shoulder, and a shorter knight patted Link's other shoulder.
"Come on lad, we can always use young blood like you," said the shorter knight.
"Yeah, you can teach Jerome a lesson in being a proper knight," the taller knight teased.
"I am sure Link and I could beat you at your own game Cale!" The shorter knight cried.
Link laughed a little, thinking the knights of Hyrule were a fun bunch.
"Besides, I am sure the princess is interested in a nice young royal guard," another one of the knights said.
Link was taken aback by that statement, and Zelda glared slightly and rubbed her temple with her fingers.
"At ease, soldiers!" Zelda said sternly.
The knights got into perfect formation, and Link stiffened up as well.
Zelda eased herself up and smiled down at Link. "At ease, young hero."
Link loosened up and then looked all around him. Life in the castle would certainly be lavish. The knights gestured at the young hero. Link could imagine himself getting along here. Still, the people most important to him weren't present here.
Link got down on one knee. "Your highness," he started.
"This is a big honor, and I am sure it will bring so much honor to my village…." He paused.
"But the village, my family…."
Zelda laughed a little, something Link never heard the stern and proud princess do.
"I'd say think about it, but I think your heart and your mind are already made up," Zelda said.
"Good on you, lad," said Jerome.
"All the best to you, boy," Cale said. "You are still young and all."
"But you are always welcome in this castle," Zelda said.
Link smiled. "Thank you, Your Highness!"
The knights supported Link's decision.
"Be sure to visit for a nice sparring session," Jerome said.
Link smiled at his newfound friends, but a rush of worry came to him. He was made a hero, and a hero couldn't just sit around and let a kingdom fall into turmoil.
"Wait," Link said. "A kingdom needs its hero."
"Princess Zelda!" Cried a voice from afar.
"Your Highness!" Another voice cried.
A young woman ran as quickly as she could in her dress. And a young man rushed over with a bunch of scrolls in his arms.
"Princess Zelda, I have fantastic news!" Cried the young woman.
"Yes, Camille," the princess greeted with a smile. "Anything of concern."
Camille could barely contain herself. "Thanks to our young hero, we are guaranteed at least a lifetime of peace and mediocrity," Camille said.
Camille placed a hand on the scholar's shoulder.
"I saw it in a vision, and then I backed it up with Oli," Camille said.
"It's true!" Oli said as he fixed his glasses and rolled out a scroll. "Link has sealed away evil for a lifetime or two. We can all rest easy."
Camille and Oli gave grateful looks to Link.
Camille shifted back to Zelda. "I mean, anything can change, and we can always check to be safe, but…."
"I understand!" Zelda said. She smiled back at the young hero.
"Go home, Link," Zelda encouraged. "Home is where you belong."
The knights roared in cheers and took turns patting Link on the shoulders, back, and head.
"Thanks, guys, this is very flattering," Link said.
"I also see in your heart that there is a young girl that is most important to you," Zelda said frankly.
Link froze and a light blush formed on his face. His newfound knight friends teased him a little.
"Well, you wouldn't want to keep your lady love waiting, Link," Cale said. He patted Link's green hat a bit harder.
"Atta boy!" Jerome said.
But she wasn't his lover, he was only her childhood friend.
But he did love Ilia, he always loved her, and he wasn't going to spend another second without her.
Link was so busy returning the Master Sword to its resting place that it took him a moment to notice the sky was shifting from azure blue to bright orange. And Epona was starting to slow by a small pond. Link stroked her silky mane.
"Whoa, girl! Are you alright?"
Link didn't want to stray any further. He just wanted to be back home again. Everyone would be waiting for him. All the adults rely on his young blood. Then there was Colin, Talo, Malo, Beth, Ilia.
Ilia.
Link felt his heart stir. He pulled the horse whistle necklace that was around his neck and held it close to him. The necklace was under his tunic ever since Ilia gave it to him.
But his mare seemed to want to rest, so Link gathered items for a campfire and sat on a log. The twilight around him was calming, and he felt the need to sit for a while.
Just for a bit longer, everyone. Everything I ever needed is in Ordon Village.
Ilia, I hope you made it home safely.
Link's face warmed up a bit. She probably would be a bit offended if he treated her like some helpless damsel in distress.
Link had to admit, though, as much as he wanted to rush home as quickly as possible and see everyone again, something about the twilight around him that felt different. It was calming and gentle. There were peaceful sounds of crickets and frogs.
It was his reminder that his world and the world of the Twili were always connected, even if they were never meant to meet.
Midna.
He wondered if Midna could feel the connection as well.
Rusl mentioned that dusk and twilight were a sad time of lost spirits. Still, something about the twilight this evening was different. The orange sky was warm and gentle on the eyes, and it felt like the entire world was slowing down at a peaceful place. The sound of the fire Link made harmony with the gentle sounds of the forest critters.
Peace was all around him, but if only his best friend was with him to experience it.
His best friend…
Two girls came to his mind. Ilia and Midna.
Midna will always be an unforgettable friend. Their journey may have been short, but it would be one Link would never forget.
But it was still bittersweet that Midna couldn't stay in his life, meet his family, and meet Ilia.
Ilia. So kind-hearted, strong-willed, and beautiful.
Those comforting thoughts calmed Link as he laid beside his faithful mare companion and drifted into sleep.
In his dream, bright golden sunlight filled Ordon Village. The villagers waved at him and welcomed him home. Link felt so at peace and was about to run to them.
"Hello, my dearest friend."
Link's heart jumped at the sound of a familiar friend, now he could genuinely piece together that he was dreaming, but it was too sweet of a dream to be rational about it.
The twilight princess was right behind him, smiling so fondly.
Link didn't mean to cold shoulder the villagers, but he ran to Midna, and Midna clasped Link's hands.
Link had happy tears in his eyes as he expressed how overjoyed he was to see Midna again, even if this was probably only the sweetest dream he ever had.
"I'll always be with you," Midna said. "You will forever be my brave companion."
Her words were so gentle.
Midna turned her gaze to Mayor Bo's house.
"But I came to tell you that she is waiting for you," Midna said.
A very elaborate dream indeed.
Link turned his head and paused for a moment. Midna let go of his hands and gave him an encouraging look. Link turned to Midna and nodded, and ran off to the Mayor's house.
Link knocked on the door, only for the door to shift open for him.
This Mayor's house was peaceful as usual. Link walked into the hallway and faced Ilia's bedroom door. He made a gentle knock on the door only for the door to open for him, and Link made an effort to be respectful as he glanced at the young woman sleeping under the covers. Gentle sunlight shined on her pale skin and hair.
Link walked in slowly, taking in her beauty, and knelt down gently so he wouldn't wake her from her sound sleep. He gently cupped her face with his right hand and smiled down on her.
Ilia's sleeping smile grew a bit.
Oh, how he longed to see her again, the hero knew he shouldn't walk into her room while she rested, but he felt like something was urging him to do so.
You're so dear to me, Ilia," Link thought.
Link placed a small kiss on her cheek and then gazed at her a bit longer. He was gonna let her sleep a bit longer while meeting up with the other villagers. Still, her eyes fluttered open, and she smiled up at her hero.
"Link..." Ilia said.
"Ilia!" Link's smile grew as his precious friend awoke. He knelt down on her bedside again.
Ilia stared fondly at him for a moment before sitting up and rubbing her eyes. A few small tears rolled down as she looked relieved to see him.
"I have been waiting for you, Link," Ilia said.
Link took her hand. "Well, I am here now, Ilia! I will always be there for you!" He assured her.
Ilia smirked and grabbed Link's hand to pull him closer and surprised him with a kiss of her own.
The kiss was energetic because they yearned for each other for so long.
When they broke apart, they fell on the bed together and spent their time cuddling and laughing. Link and Ilia showered each other with more kisses until they both fell into a restful sleep on the bed.
Although this was all just a blissful dream.
In reality, Link smiled in his sleep the entire night.
ugh Faron Woods on his gentle mare companion. Of course, this young boy became a young man after his unforgettable journey from saving the world from turmoil.
Everything turned around in weeks after years of living a quiet life in a beautiful little village. He was a hero now, and everyone knew that, but he had no desire for fame or fortune.
His heart raced as he rode Epona. He felt freer and happier that the weight of his responsibility of being a hero was lifted from his shoulders.
But he did have a choice.
After Midna left, Link and Zelda rode back to Hyrule Castle. The princess was happily welcomed back by all the servants. To Link's surprise, the princess who always seemed stoic to him had a slight smile on her face as she greeted her enthusiastic servants.
She gestured to her servants to calm down. "All of you should really be thanking our chosen hero," Zelda turned to Link.
Link gasped. The princess seemed to also have a devious side. The servants clamored around Link, and a few of them bowed down and spoke their gratitude.
"I am going to request an audience," the princess said. "Link, can you please stay here a bit longer?"
Link nodded. "Of course."
The princess left, and the servants told Link he could have anything he desired, food, antiques, but Link shook his head and thanked the servants anyway.
A little later, Link was called to the throne room where Zelda stood by her throne, and the knights of Hyrule stood by as Link walked. When Link walked up to the princess, the princess made a slight bow.
"Link, hero of Hyrule," Zelda started.
A small smile formed on Link's face.
"You deserve nothing but good after the brave sacrifice you made for our kingdom," Zelda said.
"Yes, long live Link the hero!" One of the knights cried.
The knights cheered for the mighty warrior with the green hat, but Link stayed humble.
Zelda waited for the knights' cheers to soften. She placed a hand over her chest.
"But I wanted to ask one more question," Zelda said.
"Huh?" Link said.
Zelda smiled down upon him. "I wanted to ask if you wanted to become a knight of the royal guard, for you proved to be the strongest hero not only in physical strength but in the heart."
The knights waved their spears and swords and cheered again. Some of them were starting to encourage Link to say yes.
Link didn't know what to say at first. A taller and older knight placed a hand on Link's shoulder, and a shorter knight patted Link's other shoulder.
"Come on lad, we can always use young blood like you," said the shorter knight.
"Yeah, you can teach Jerome a lesson in being a proper knight," the taller knight teased.
"I am sure Link and I could beat you at your own game Cale!" The shorter knight cried.
Link laughed a little, thinking the knights of Hyrule were a fun bunch.
"Besides, I am sure the princess is interested in a nice young royal guard," another one of the knights said.
Link was taken aback by that statement, and Zelda glared slightly and rubbed her temple with her fingers.
"At ease, soldiers!" Zelda said sternly.
The knights got into perfect formation, and Link stiffened up as well.
Zelda eased herself up and smiled down at Link. "At ease, young hero."
Link loosened up and then looked all around him. Life in the castle would certainly be lavish. The knights gestured at the young hero. Link could imagine himself getting along here. Still, the people most important to him weren't present here.
Link got down on one knee. "Your highness," he started.
"This is a big honor, and I am sure it will bring so much honor to my village…." He paused.
"But the village, my family…."
Zelda laughed a little, something Link never heard the stern and proud princess do.
"I'd say think about it, but I think your heart and your mind are already made up," Zelda said.
"Good on you, lad," said Jerome.
"All the best to you, boy," Cale said. "You are still young and all."
"But you are always welcome in this castle," Zelda said.
Link smiled. "Thank you, Your Highness!"
The knights supported Link's decision.
"Be sure to visit for a nice sparring session," Jerome said.
Link smiled at his newfound friends, but a rush of worry came to him. He was made a hero, and a hero couldn't just sit around and let a kingdom fall into turmoil.
"Wait," Link said. "A kingdom needs its hero."
"Princess Zelda!" Cried a voice from afar.
"Your Highness!" Another voice cried.
A young woman ran as quickly as she could in her dress. And a young man rushed over with a bunch of scrolls in his arms.
"Princess Zelda, I have fantastic news!" Cried the young woman.
"Yes, Camille," the princess greeted with a smile. "Anything of concern."
Camille could barely contain herself. "Thanks to our young hero, we are guaranteed at least a lifetime of peace and mediocrity," Camille said.
Camille placed a hand on the scholar's shoulder.
"I saw it in a vision, and then I backed it up with Oli," Camille said.
"It's true!" Oli said as he fixed his glasses and rolled out a scroll. "Link has sealed away evil for a lifetime or two. We can all rest easy."
Camille and Oli gave grateful looks to Link.
Camille shifted back to Zelda. "I mean, anything can change, and we can always check to be safe, but…."
"I understand!" Zelda said. She smiled back at the young hero.
"Go home, Link," Zelda encouraged. "Home is where you belong."
The knights roared in cheers and took turns patting Link on the shoulders, back, and head.
"Thanks, guys, this is very flattering," Link said.
"I also see in your heart that there is a young girl that is most important to you," Zelda said frankly.
Link froze and a light blush formed on his face. His newfound knight friends teased him a little.
"Well, you wouldn't want to keep your lady love waiting, Link," Cale said. He patted Link's green hat a bit harder.
"Atta boy!" Jerome said.
But she wasn't his lover, he was only her childhood friend.
But he did love Ilia, he always loved her, and he wasn't going to spend another second without her.
Link was so busy returning the Master Sword to its resting place that it took him a moment to notice the sky was shifting from azure blue to bright orange. And Epona was starting to slow by a small pond. Link stroked her silky mane.
"Whoa, girl! Are you alright?"
Link didn't want to stray any further. He just wanted to be back home again. Everyone would be waiting for him. All the adults rely on his young blood. Then there was Colin, Talo, Malo, Beth, Ilia.
Ilia.
Link felt his heart stir. He pulled the horse whistle necklace that was around his neck and held it close to him. The necklace was under his tunic ever since Ilia gave it to him.
But his mare seemed to want to rest, so Link gathered items for a campfire and sat on a log. The twilight around him was calming, and he felt the need to sit for a while.
Just for a bit longer, everyone. Everything I ever needed is in Ordon Village.
Ilia, I hope you made it home safely.
Link's face warmed up a bit. She probably would be a bit offended if he treated her like some helpless damsel in distress.
Link had to admit, though, as much as he wanted to rush home as quickly as possible and see everyone again, something about the twilight around him that felt different. It was calming and gentle. There were peaceful sounds of crickets and frogs.
It was his reminder that his world and the world of the Twili were always connected, even if they were never meant to meet.
Midna.
He wondered if Midna could feel the connection as well.
Rusl mentioned that dusk and twilight were a sad time of lost spirits. Still, something about the twilight this evening was different. The orange sky was warm and gentle on the eyes, and it felt like the entire world was slowing down at a peaceful place. The sound of the fire Link made harmony with the gentle sounds of the forest critters.
Peace was all around him, but if only his best friend was with him to experience it.
His best friend…
Two girls came to his mind. Ilia and Midna.
Midna will always be an unforgettable friend. Their journey may have been short, but it would be one Link would never forget.
But it was still bittersweet that Midna couldn't stay in his life, meet his family, and meet Ilia.
Ilia. So kind-hearted, strong-willed, and beautiful.
Those comforting thoughts calmed Link as he laid beside his faithful mare companion and drifted into sleep.
In his dream, bright golden sunlight filled Ordon Village. The villagers waved at him and welcomed him home. Link felt so at peace and was about to run to them.
"Hello, my dearest friend."
Link's heart jumped at the sound of a familiar friend, now he could genuinely piece together that he was dreaming, but it was too sweet of a dream to be rational about it.
The twilight princess was right behind him, smiling so fondly.
Link didn't mean to cold shoulder the villagers, but he ran to Midna, and Midna clasped Link's hands.
Link had happy tears in his eyes as he expressed how overjoyed he was to see Midna again, even if this was probably only the sweetest dream he ever had.
"I'll always be with you," Midna said. "You will forever be my brave companion."
Her words were so gentle.
Midna turned her gaze to Mayor Bo's house.
"But I came to tell you that she is waiting for you," Midna said.
A very elaborate dream indeed.
Link turned his head and paused for a moment. Midna let go of his hands and gave him an encouraging look. Link turned to Midna and nodded, and ran off to the Mayor's house.
Link knocked on the door, only for the door to shift open for him.
This Mayor's house was peaceful as usual. Link walked into the hallway and faced Ilia's bedroom door. He made a gentle knock on the door only for the door to open for him, and Link made an effort to be respectful as he glanced at the young woman sleeping under the covers. Gentle sunlight shined on her pale skin and hair.
Link walked in slowly, taking in her beauty, and knelt down gently so he wouldn't wake her from her sound sleep. He gently cupped her face with his right hand and smiled down on her.
Ilia's sleeping smile grew a bit.
Oh, how he longed to see her again, the hero knew he shouldn't walk into her room while she rested, but he felt like something was urging him to do so.
You're so dear to me, Ilia," Link thought.
Link placed a small kiss on her cheek and then gazed at her a bit longer. He was gonna let her sleep a bit longer while meeting up with the other villagers. Still, her eyes fluttered open, and she smiled up at her hero.
"Link..." Ilia said.
"Ilia!" Link's smile grew as his precious friend awoke. He knelt down on her bedside again.
Ilia stared fondly at him for a moment before sitting up and rubbing her eyes. A few small tears rolled down as she looked relieved to see him.
"I have been waiting for you, Link," Ilia said.
Link took her hand. "Well, I am here now, Ilia! I will always be there for you!" He assured her.
Ilia smirked and grabbed Link's hand to pull him closer and surprised him with a kiss of her own.
The kiss was energetic because they yearned for each other for so long.
When they broke apart, they fell on the bed together and spent their time cuddling and laughing. Link and Ilia showered each other with more kisses until they both fell into a restful sleep on the bed.
Although this was all just a blissful dream.
In reality, Link smiled in his sleep the entire night.
I tell myself to slow burn this and then I proceed to set the kitchen on fire. But it's just a dream for now, dreams are strange.
Anyone who actually read this has my gratitude, because I certainly felt I could've wrote this first chapter better.
Regardless I do look forward to you lovely readers finding out what happens next. See you next time!
This is Emiko Gale signing out!
