Before the Calamity

by Isulai

A Re-telling of Link's fractured memories from before the Calamity struck. "Where is the knight? The one with the Sheikah Slate and what they call the 'Sword that seals the Darkness! Tell us where he is, or you will share his fate!" Link's heart skipped a beat. Princess Zelda was in danger.

1. Chapter 1: Traveling with the Princess

Link followed several feet behind the Princess as she walked, listening as she ranted about the ancient Sheikah technology. She did that a lot. More than he'd expected. But he didn't mind. He wasn't a gearhead like her, but it was still interesting to know more about this mysterious power.

He took a deep breath of fresh, wild air. It felt good to get out into the world, instead of being cooped up with the other knights in the barracks or the training grounds. Though, he wasn't so sure about this new Princess-and-knight dynamic. She didn't boss him around much, but she didn't seem to like him either. Perhaps it was the fact that he never spoke. It wasn't that he didn't have anything to say. With so much at stake, and so many eyes on him, he felt it necessary to stay strong and silently bear any burden.

He was pulled from his thoughts, however, when the Princess slowed and stopped. He scanned ahead for any threats, ready to defend her. There was nothing there. Then she looked over her shoulder.

"Tell me the truth. How proficient are you right now, wielding that sword on your back?" she asked. "Legend says that an ancient voice resonates inside it. Can you hear it yet... hero?"

Where did that come from? Link shifted, expressionless. He wasn't sure about an ancient voice, but he had heard... something. He remembered stepping up to the pedestal, surrounded by trees and excited Koroks. Despite the Great Deku Tree's warning, he'd gripped the hilt firmly and pulled. Then he'd felt it. An unseen force traveling up his arms, spreading through his chest, draining the life out of his body and mind. Testing him. He recalled the horribly dizzy and weak sensation. His heart had threatened to stop altogether, when finally, the blade came free. Once the Master Sword was his, his strength had returned. He had heard a sound emanating from the blade. Strange. Almost… lonely.

Link didn't want the Princess to think he was incapable, but he wouldn't break his vow of silence. Not now. Instead, he held her gaze, wishing that he could just... understand her.