Lanayru ProvidenceProvince – Zora's Domain
Sitting on the shore of the Eastern Reservoir Lake with Mipha, Link studied the Divine Beast Vah Ruta. Eventually, he decided he could see some appeal to it—her—though to call her cute was a bit of a stretch in his mind.
Mipha was staring at his profile with suspicious eyes. Accusingly, she declared, "You're thinking she's not cute."
"I'm thinking she looks noble," Link said. "Clearly, our definitions of 'cute' differ here. We'll have to agree to disagree."
Mipha kept her skeptical look before breaking out into giggles.
"W-what?" Link asked, confused to her sudden change in attitude.
"Your father and I, we shared thethis exact conversation when he was here," Mipha said.
"Really?"
Mipha nodded. "Yes. And you're both wrong. Vah Ruta is adorable."
Link nodded and looked down at the water. "I'm glad you got to see him."
"It was familiar, having Revan teach me the spear again," Mipha said. She let her feet dip into the water and softly kicked up some ripples. "I did miss having you here terribly, though."
"I did want to come back," Link said.
"I know, your. Your father said as much," Mipha said. "I wanted to be there at the Four Swords as well, but I needed to liaison with Sheikah researchers regarding Vah Ruta. I know this is late, but congratulations on your victory. I heard it was well-earned."
"Thank you, Mipha," Link said.
She smiled and stood up. She offered a hand to him, and Link allowed himself to be pulled up.
"Come, let us dine," Mipha said. "I would like to hear of your adventures."
Link nodded, and they started the walk back. Mipha appeared more relaxed now, stirring up a hint of guilt within Link.
"Link? If I may?" Mipha gently asked. "You did not tell us how you came across the Master Sword. Would you tell me about it? It is fine if you do not wish to."
Link was about to launch into an abbreviated version of the story when he realized that of all people, Mipha should deserved the truthwhole story. She did knowhad known his father well, and they were friends. It was the least Link could offer.
Taking a deep breath, he told her of the last mission Revan had undertaken, slowing his pace so that they wouldn't return to Zora's Domain for a little while longer.
~o~O~o~
The next morning, Link arrived at the private breakfast room reserved for the royal family—and guests of the royal family.
He was first, but at Mipha's and King Dorephan's insistence, he was allowed to partake without waiting for them. Sitting down at his usual spot, he started serving himself when Mipha and Sidon walked in.
"Good morning, Link," Mipha said.
"Morning," Link replied. He smiled at Sidon.
Sidon grinned back, showing all of his teeth, and shot Link a thumb's -up that looked both confident and adorable.
At Link's questioning gaze, Mipha giggled. "I believe you used to smile just like that when you were last here, along with that gesture.
"I did?" Link asked. He vaguely remembered grinning like that, but he did remember often giving Sidon a thumbs -up.
"You did," Mipha said. "It seems it's stuck with him. I'm sure it'll pass as an eccentric phase."
Link helpfully slid some of Sidon's and Mipha's favorite dishes closer when they settled in.
Mipha smiled at him. "Thank you. What will you be doing now?"
"Meet and greet," Link said. "I'm looking at the attitude of any potential candidates, to see if they have what the king is looking for. I'm just re-integrating myself back into Zora life once again."
Mipha tilted her head. "Well, if that's the case, perhaps you can take over as my tutor?."
It was fortunate that Link was only in the process of lifting his glass to his lips,; otherwise, he would've spit out the contents. "What? Me?"
"Well, you are a Four Swords Champion, a hero chosen by the goddesses, and you've been trained in the spear by one of the greatest spearmen to have lived," Mipha said, careful to keep her voice upbeat. "It appears you are quite qualified, don't you think?"
"Hmm… I guess it's one way to pass the time," Link said. "Sure, I don't mind giving you some pointers. I don't know how much I can teach you, though."
Mipha smiled. "I am confident there is much you can offer."
Following breakfast, they treaded paths that were becoming increasingly familiar to Link until they reached the sparring room.
While Link had prepared himself to see improvement in Mipha's technique since they had last met, he was still put on the defensive more than a few times while he tried to get a feel for her limits.
"Exactly how much more did my father teach you?" Link asked. They were circling each other, only just out of range of their weapons as they prepared to clash once more.
Mipha only smiled and twirled the trident in her hands more confidently than Link had ever seen her.
"Okay, then…" Link muttered to himself. He stepped forward and tried a quick jab at her chest.
When she tried to parry, he pulled back and locked onto the shaft of her trident with one of the prongs. Twisting hard, he leveraged the lock and used it to throw Mipha. She let out an undignified yelp and crashed onto the mat.
Link walked over to her and offered a hand. Sighing in defeat, Mipha grasped it and allowed herself to be pulled back up.
"Will you show me how you did that?" Mipha asked.
Smiling, Link slowly performed the move he had used.
Following combat lessons, they spent their time together during Mipha's courtly lessons under Muzu's tutelage and learning about politics. Since heLink would be working closely with the royal family, it was something he figured he needed to get used to now. When the lessons proved to be a bit too challenging, Mipha was kind enough to tutor him, lest his brain shut down from the information overload.
After that, Link went his separate way. He played with Bazz and the old gang, despite the 'age' difference between them. It was nice to be able to forget about his responsibilities for a time and go back to something simpler. They were overjoyed to have Link around again, if only for a bit. He even trained them further in some advanced sword techniques.
Link then met with the Zora Guardsmenguardsmen. As far as the threat of Calamity Ganon went, only King Dorephan, Mipha, and Muzu—acting as the Royal Advisor—knew the truth. Link asked that they keep it that way, so that he could assess who among the Zora guards could be worthy of being the pilot without bias or altered behaviors. He wanted to see them at their most natural, not as someone that wanted glory and would try to deceive or unconsciously act differently around Link so that they would prove they were the right candidate.
He attended their training sessions, under the guise that as a member of the Royal Guard, a winner of the Four Swords Tournament, and the son of Sir Revan, that he would be able to train others or train with the Zora Guardsmenguardsmen.
Many were friendly and open to what he had to offer. Others, such as Sergeant Seggin, were less receptive to his presence. TrilloTrello told Link that Seggin was harboring a small grudge against Link for besting him at the tourney.
Well, he's out, then.
Trello was happy that Link was there, though, and was enthusiastic about learning from him. However, there was something about the Zora that lacked the right spark for the monumental task ahead. Link's instincts told him that while Trello was a fine fighter, protecting Zora's Domain would be his calling, not protecting the entirety of Hyrule.
Link continued his private assessment, discarding potential candidates left and right. None of them felt inspiring; at least, not enough to handle the responsibility of piloting a Divine Beast or fighting Calamity Ganon.
Still, it was early, and there would be time. Perhaps first impressions were lacking, but there was always the second.
~o~O~o~
"So, how goes your search?" Mipha asked.
Link didn't answer immediately. Privately, he noted that she was carefully circling the mat while keeping him in her field of view. It was a lesson she had learned when he'd used one of his Sheikah techniques and easily struck her blindside.
"Still going," Link said. "I'm beginning to understand why King Rhoam is taking his time finding the candidates. There's a lot to consider."
"Did anybody catch your eye?"
Link said nothing, and instead he brought his trident around and swept Mipha off her feet.
Hitting the mat with a grunt, she sighed and picked herself back up. "Well, you cannot blame me for trying."
Link scoffed and readied himself again.
On their next clash, Mipha's feint was excellent, and Link almost fell for it, but he managed to abort his attack in the nick of time. What really did catchcaught him off -guard was when Mipha twirled her trident around until it was behind her head, resting on her shoulders while she put herself down in a lowered stance. She started off with some rapid stabs while shuffling forward, keeping her stance low to prevent sweeping attacks. Link quickly parried and leapt back for some room. Mipha spun her trident yet again, aiming for his legs. Link managed to do a backflip and avoided her sweep, only to realize the origin of her combination attack.
Oh, clever.
The moment Link landed on his feet, Mipha had already used her trident as a pole vault, pushing herself forward to cover the distance and landing a kick solidly onto his chest. Link fell onto his back with a grunt.
He lay there, staring at the ceiling, and smiled. "Father taught you that one?"
Mipha, grinning widely, appeared in his field of vision, and nodded. "Nayru bless him, I finally achieved one victory over you."
Link couldn't help but laugh.
~o~O~o~
Over the next few weeks, and nearing Link's fifteenth birthday, he continued his covert assessment of the best soldiers Zora's Domain had to offer. He started to train them himself, if only to see if there would be any marked improvement in their techniques and perhaps reveal if any of their characters would pique his interest. They were skilled, but still seemed lackluster. And while many Zora were friendly, courageous, and honorable, they did not seem to be the right fit for what was to come.
Objectively speaking, it seemed that Mipha was the one that was improving the most. The last time Link had to be on his toes was against Master Impaz, years agoearlier. Mipha had not yet claimed a second win, but she was proving adaptable, an asymmetrical thinker, and determined.
When they weren't sparring, Mipha returned the favor by teaching him many of the lessons she had accruedlearned as she was being groomed to be the next queen. And when they weren't teaching each other, they were playing, either with Sidon or the Big Bad Bazz Brigade. Now Link understood how Mipha had felt when she washad been involved with his childish antics years agoearlier, yet far from looking embarrassed, she seemed to revel in the childish games and mischief.
The gang were all disheartened to hear Ammy had left but were happy that she was making a family of her own. They demanded that Link bring Midna next time so that they could see her. Link promised to do so at some point in the future.
It was nice to fall into a simple routine; familiar, safe.
Such were Link's thoughts as he threw Mipha to the groundfloor.
After seizing victory once again in their daily lessons, Link offered a hand up.
Mipha pulled herself to her feet and sighed. "I truly thought I had you there."
Link shook his head and said, "You didn't, and you won't."
"Why not?" Mipha asked.
Link planted the butt of his training trident on the mat. "Mipha, you're one of the gentlest souls I know, but this? Combat requires ferocity. Coming at me with childish tricks won't work, at least not a second time. To fight, you have to mean it."
"You think I'm not strong enough?" Mipha asked, looking hurt.
"That. That right there," Link said seriously and pointing at her. "I didn't say strongstrength. I said ferociousferocity. Instead of being indignant, you took that criticism as pain to endure. I'm asking for you to be more assertive."
Mipha frowned. "You don't think I'm assertive?"
"No," Link bluntly said. "Look, compassion is a beautiful trait, and one you have in spades. When you become queen, that's exactly why your people will love you. But if something were to threaten Zora's Domain, compassion won't be what your people will want. They will want you to be their bulwark against whatever it is that seeks to harm them. You don't have to be the tip of the spear, but you have to at least be their shield. Right now? I'm not seeing either."
Mipha narrowed her eyes. She marched back into position and held her trident ready. "Again."
Link stood opposite to her and nodded his readiness.
Mipha lunged forward, executing a series of rapid movements that Link recognized as his father's once. He easily dodged or parried them until she gracefully flowed to the side. She almost managed to sweep him off his feet, but instead of hopping back for distance, he chose to plant his trident into the mat to forcibly block her attempt while trying a kick of his own.
Mipha's follow-up attacks became increasingly aggressive. Link still managed to parry, but now, it was with his usual focus, rather than lazy afterthought.
Still, Link's experience won out in the end, and Mipha was picking herself off the matt once more.
"I lost again," Mipha muttered.
"That was much better, actually. I had to work a little harder this time," Link said. "I am your instructor here, after all. Don't think it will be that easy to beat me, but you took a very important first step, I think."
"So, all those times we sparred, you weren't putting any effort into it?" Mipha asked.
"None," Link answered honestly. "Actually, I think I allowed myself to get distracted a lot."
Mipha sighed. "Will I ever best you?"
Link shook his head. "You're learning the trident because it's tradition. You're a princess, so what you're going to be doing is vastly different than what I am doing. I learned because I'm always looking to improve my techniques. Because I need to be stronger. We're coming from two different worlds."
"I suppose we are," Mipha murmured quietly.
"What?" Link asked.
"Nothing," Mipha said. "You are right. I need to apply the proper attitude for this. It's the only way to improve myself."
She took her position once more and readied her weapon. This time, her eyes were hardened. Resolute. Link arched an eyebrow and readied himself as well.
~o~O~o~
Link noted that Mipha's performance had increased by leaps and bounds since their talk. She remained the gentle girl he knew her to be, but she applied herself differently when he continued to teach her the spear.
However, with his birthday coming up, Link wanted to go home to celebrate it with his family…; it would be the first birthday he'd had since his father's death.
When he told Mipha of his plans, she not only understood, but she rounded up Bazz's gang (and Sidon) and helped give him an early birthday celebration that had him smiling. It was a private affair—he was sure that Bazz and the gang would no doubt leak the story in time, but by then, Link would be on thehis way home.
"Thank you for this," Link said. He and Mipha were walking together following the private party they'd had and were somehow heading to the East Reservoir Lake.
"It was my pleasure," Mipha said. She seemed hesitant before regaining her composure and looped her arm around Link's. "You are always welcome here, in any capacity, whether it is official or unofficial."
"That means a lot to me," Link murmured. He didn't pull away.
"You're leaving tomorrow?" Mipha asked. They arrived at the lake and sat down. Despite the nighttime darkness, Vah Ruta was easily seen from her position in the lake, with glowing lines of serene sapphire glowing through the grooves in her armor arising from some mechanisms that neither of them had any idea of.
Link nodded as they sat down at what was becoming their usual spot to talk. "I have to take travel time into consideration."
"What will you do next?"
Shrugging, Link said, "I'm still new to the guard, so I'll still have to adjust… not to mention… 'other roles' that I have to prepare for."
Mipha held his arm tightermore tightly. "For what it's worth, I feel much better knowing that you will lead the charge against the Calamity. It feels like I can fight, too, knowing that you're there."
Link smiled self-deprecatingly. "I don't know if I feel the same about my part in this, but it's nice to know that you believe in me."
Mipha smiled back. "You have never given me a reason not to."
They sat in silence for the rest of the night, observing Vah Ruta and basking in the stillness and peace. It was then that Link became inspired.
Though how he was going to sell the idea was another matter entirely.
~o~O~o~
Central Hyrule – Hyrule Castle
"That is your recommendation?"
Link was in the throne room, kneeling before King Rhoam. The others in attendance were Captain Auru and Chancellor Cole.
Currently, King Rhoam was shocked at Link's bold opinion.
"It is, Your Majesty," Link said.
"Princess Mipha is the eldest heir of the Zora Royal Family," King Rhoam said. "King Dorephan will not agree to this."
"He might… if he understands that Princess Zelda is also fighting this war," Link said. "Impress upon him the magnitude of the danger we are in. Miph—… Princess Mipha wishes to defend her people in any way she can. And I know her as one of the gentlest souls in Hyrule. There is no one more fit for the responsibility."
King Rhoam took on a pensive look and remained silent for almost a minute. Link waited.
"I shall consider your words," King Rhoam said. "But I suggest you recommend an alternate candidate—"
"ThisThere is no other that I would trust to have at my side," Link said. Interrupting the king was a serious breach in manners, respect, and authority, but Link was unwavering in his belief. "His Majesty would be hard -pressed to find another pilot, but you know my thoughts on this. I am afraid I will not be swayed."
"… Princess Mipha must have made quite the impression on you," King Rhoam said.
"If the pilots are to be working with Princess Zelda and myself in this endeavor, we must also consider those we are compatible with," Link said. "You tasked me with finding a worthy individual to fight Calamity Ganon. I believe I succeeded. It will be up to Her Highness to secure her help."
King Rhoam nodded. "Very well. We may speak of this again after some deliberation. Onto other matters."
Link looked up. "Your Majesty?"
"While you were gone, His Majesty informed the citizenry of Calamity Ganon, the preparations we are making, and… you," Chancellor Cole stated imperiously. "Specifically, your role and the presence of the Master Sword."
That would explain why everyone was looking and whispering at me.
When Link had arrived back toat the castle, there washad been an unusual amount of interest in him as he walked the halls towards the throne room. He had assumed that people were gossiping because he was the newest, and youngest, member of the Royal Guard.
Link glanced at the chancellor. "Nothing has changed, though, has it?"
Auru spoke up. "There is a palpable sense of unease, but reassurances as well as reminders that we have not been idle in our preparations have quelled the worst of it. However, libraries and bookstores have reported that any scriptures on ancient legends have all been checked or sold out. I'm afraid that your life will become very public now."
Link nodded, having expected this for some time. "Will that be all you require of me?"
"For now, Link," King Rhoam said. "Go home. Enjoy your birthday."
"Wha—… I—… Um… thank you… Your Majesty…" Link stammered out, stunned.
King Rhoam may have been smirking, though his beard hid the expression. "Dismissed."
Link dumbly nodded. Before he realized it, he was outside the throne room trying to wrap his mind around the fact that the King of Hyrule knew his birthday.
"Hello, Link," Impa said.
Forcing his mind back into the moment, Link nodded at her in greeting and looked around. Several of the servants had been trying to surreptitiously observe him, only to avert their gazes and pretended to look busy when his eyes met theirs.
"Nothing travels faster than gossip and rumors," Impa said.
Link forcefully exhaled and started walkedwalking down the halls to where he believed was the front entrance was. "And?"
"And for once, the rumors don't actually live up to reality… except the part where people think you're older, bigger, and can wrestle Gorons to the ground without apparent effort," Impa said jokingly.
Link snorted and marched on. "What of my family? How did they take the news?"
Impa sighed. "About as well as you can expect. Your mother was exceptionally worried, but your sister appeared proud. They were grateful that they got to know the truth, though."
"I'm grateful, too," Link quietly said. "I appreciate your help onin this."
"I already told them if that if they would like to know more, I'm at their disposal," Impa said. She smiled. "We won't let you do this alone."
Arriving at the front door, Link nodded. As he was leaving, though, Impa called out to him.
"Oh, there wasis one more thing," Impa said. "For your family's safety, His Majesty has assigned around-the-clock guards around your home. There will always be two soldiers posted at the door and increased patrols in and around Mabe Village."
Link frowned. "Yiga?"
Impa shrugged. "Among other unsavory types. Some people don't accept bad news well, after all."
Again, Link nodded. He waved goodbye and started his trip home, but with a bit more haste.
~o~O~o~
Central Hyrule – Mabe Village
Atop Lux, heLink was quick to leave Castle Town behind. People were openly gawking and pointing at him. Or the Master Sword. He didn't have the patience or the energy to deal with the sudden interest, so he urged Lux into a rapid pace back home. He was keen to speak to his family now that they were aware of his responsibilities. It wasn't a conversation he wanted, but it was one that was necessary.
The inhabitants of Mabe Village were acting the same as those of Castle Town. The attention was stifling and unwelcome, but heLink knew that if it were someone else, he would also be openly gawking just as much as anyone else would be. He stoically endured the stares of people he had known of all of his life as he made his way to his modest family estate.
"Welcome home, Master Link," Cremia said. She curtsied when he stopped next to her and dismounted. "Please, allow us to take Lux for you."
"Cremia… it's still me," Link quietly said. "I'm still Link, okay?"
She had an uncertain look on her face.
Link took Lux by the reins and led her to the stables. "Where's Romani?"
"Ah, in the stables, with Epona, Master Link," Cremia answered.
Link sighed. "Cremia, please, just… I'm home, and I want to feel like I'm home… can'tCan't we do that instead?"
Cremia closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and nodded firmly. "I'm sorry, Ma—Link. It's just… what we were told… it's so much to take in."
"I know," Link muttered. "Imagine being the subject of it."
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to make light of your burdens," Cremia said, horrified. "I-I just need more time."
Link nodded. Inside the stables, he smiled at Romani. "I hear Epona's come home?."
Romani jumped up excitedly. "Malon is looking after her foals now, and I think Epona has missed you too much."
"Well, I do have something resembling charm," Link said. "Would you two mind looking after Lux for me?"
Romani nodded and took the reins from Link. Epona was in her usual stall and perked up when Link walked up to her and started stroking her head.
"I missed you, too, girl," Link whispered. "I think you and I are going to be busy very shortly. Can I count on you?"
Epona seemed to take offense to his question and nipped at his tunic as if he were misbehaving. Link laughed.
"Link, I knew I saw you come home!" a female voice cried out.
Having only a moment to prepare himself, it was enough to ensure that he didn't fall over when Aryll tackle-hugged him from behind. "Hey, Aryll."
"You came back! Just in time for your birthday, too!" Aryll happily said.
"Yeah, I wanted to spend it with you," Link said. "And we can finally teach you horseback riding. Epona is home, so Lux is all yours."
Aryll hugged him tightermore tightly and then let go to check on Lux. "Oh, Lux! Look at you! Hasn't Link taken care of you? We need to clean you right now!"
Link scoffed and looked down at the furry weight pressing against his legs. "Wow, Midna's gotten big."
The wolf was happily leaning against him, looking up with a wide grin. Link scratched her head, and Midna melted into a puddle of joy.
"Where's Mother?" Link asked.
"She's waiting for you at home," Aryll said. She turned back to face him with uncharacteristic seriousness now. "Impa came and told us everything."
"I know," Link said. "I had the king arrange that."
Aryll looked like she had more to say, but she shook her head and grabbed his hand instead. "Come on,. Mother will want to talk to you."
"I know," Link repeated. "Did you think I was going to hide here in the stables?"
Far from being indignant, Aryll actually giggled. "That would be a sight to see. The legendary hero, hiding in the stables."
"Ha-ha," Link dryly retorted.
After saying goodbye to Epona, Lux, Cremia, and Romani, the siblings and their pet wolf quickly made their way into the house, where Marin was impatiently waiting. Beside her were two soldiers, standing at attention, though Link could see the awe and curiosity in their eyes.
When Link was only steps away, Marin rushed up and hugged him as tightly as she could. He returned the embrace.
"Oh, Link," Marin said fearfully. "How is it that you can get into so much trouble?!"
"I swear, I didn't go looking for it, Mother," Link whispered.
Marin pushed Link back to arm's length and inspected him as she had always done. When her gaze landed on the Master Sword, she frowned. "I knew that sword was special, but now—"
"I know, Mother," Link said.
Marin sighed and let him go. "Does it have to be you?"
"It has to be someone," Link said. "Let's sit down. You can tell me what you know, and I can try to fill in the gaps a bit more."
Marin and Aryll fairly dragged him into the house. The soldiers saluted, though with his hands locked in the grasp of his family, Link could only nod back. Marin insisted on putting on some tea, which Aryll helped brew. Link wanted to assist as well, but Marin shooed him out, and told him to relax after his journey. Link waited in the dining room with Midna for company.
When tea and cookies were served, Marin and Aryll told Link everything Impa had told them. To Link's satisfaction, it was as much as he could have hoped for that there was little to add.
I'm really liking her.
"She even told us why you were at Zora's Domain," Aryll said. "Did you find someone to pilot the Zora Divine Beast?"
Link nodded. "I think I have. It's up to the king and princess on whether to accept my recommendation or seek out someone else."
"Why wouldn't they listen to you?" Marin asked.
"My recommendation has a lot of political complications to navigate," Link answered. "Time will tell."
"Who is it?" Aryll asked excitedly.
"The princess, Mipha," Link said. "She's a friend, and Father had trained her, so there's a lot of potential there, but because she's royalty, well…"
Marin's mouth twitched. "I can see why it's complicated."
Link decided to explain how he had met the Great Deku Tree, drewdrawn the Master Sword, and gave a very abridged version of what had happened to Revan. He didn't have the heart, strength, or even the courage to reveal what may have been Revan's ultimate fate.
"Aren't you scared?" Aryll asked.
Link tilted his head and searched his feelings. "I'm scared for you. Probably for the same reason why Father was scared. He wanted to make sure nothing happened to you and Mother, which is why he took the mission on. I just have to carry on his wishes."
Before any further questions were asked, there was a knock on the door. Marin sighed exasperatinglyexasperatedly.
"Ever since the king broke the news, people have been coming often," she said. "It was very considerate of the king to have guards posted. They keep the strangers away, so our visitor is likely to be Ilia. We told them that she can come and go as she pleases."
Link got up and opened the door. Ilia was indeed standing there.
"Hi, Link," Ilia softly said.
"Hi," Link replied. "Um… did you want to come in, or should we go to Epona?"
"Oh, I was with Epona earlier this morning," Ilia said. "I figured you wanted to spend time with your family… but… um…"
"Come on in, Ilia," Link said. He ushered her inside, returned the salute the guards offered, and closed the door. "We were talking about… well, everything. You probably have questions, too, I'd wager."
Ilia heaved a sigh. "Everyone in Mabe village has been asking about you. They know we're friends, so it's been frustrating to say the least when I keep telling them that I don't know any more than they do."
"I hope you don't hold it against me that I didn't tell you," Link muttered.
Ilia shook her head. "If your own family didn't know, then who am I to demand answers out of you?"
"Ilia, welcome," Marin said. She hugged the younger girl. "We were having tea. Would you like some?"
"I would love some. Thank you," Ilia said. "Hi, Aryll."
"Hi, Ilia," Aryll said. "Now that Link is home, I guess we can finally go back to Castle Town?."
"What?" Link asked.
"We've been avoiding going to Castle Town for the last few weeks," Ilia said. "It's been a bit too busy for us. Or, really, more for Aryll."
"They don't know Ilia at all over there," Aryll said. "But people learned that I wasam your sister, so there's been a lot of attention on Mother and me when we go there."
"It didn't feel safe," Marin said. "Even though we had guards to escort us, I would rather not risk it."
"Probably a good idea," Link said. He paused for a moment, before sitting down. "Did Impa tell you about the Yiga Clan?"
"The… what?" Marin asked.
Link sighed. "Well, I couldn't have expected her to cover everything."
He explainedtold them about the fringe outcast Sheikah, their theorized intentions, and the possible threat they posed, though he had yet to encounter them himself.
"And you think they'll come after you?" Ilia asked, aghast.
Link shrugged. "It's a possibility."
Marin closed her eyes. "And somehow, the level of trouble you find seems to grow bigger."
"It really isn't my fault," Link protested.
"I wonder about that sometimes," Ilia said.
Link heaved a sigh. "You too, Ilia?"
She patted him on the arm. "We worry about you."
Link didn't respond, because he didn't have any replies that would assuage their fears. There were too many things that were unknown, too many threats he had to contend with, and his path was one that promised further dangers, not lessfewer.
It was a little depressing now that he thought about it.
His mother was shrewdly observing him and said, "Link, do you remember what you promised me?"
It took a moment or two for Link to sort out the various promises he had offered to her, organizing them by importance, and latching onto what he believed was the right answer. "That I would try really, really hard to be safecome home."
Marin appeared satisfied. "That's all we can ask of you."
Link smiled before turning to Aryll. "You've been awfully quiet."
"Oh, just… um… just trying to take everything in," Aryll murmured. "I can't imagine how you've been able to handle all of this."
"One day at a time," Link said. He shrugged. "I don't know, it doesn't feel 'real' to me. I'm told all about it, everyone that knows seems afraid, but I can't… I can't quite grasp the level of fear they have."
"Nothing at all?" Ilia asked.
Link shook his head. "Maybe if I see the Divine Beasts working, it would help clarify things for me. Our ancestors needed all four just to help fightdefeat Ganon, not defeatdestroy it. Maybe that will help me understand the scale of my task."
They had a few more questions, but Link didn't really have the answers for them. All he could say was that he would look into it or seek out Impa and have her return later. When the conversation had run its course, Ilia declined to stay for dinner, stating that she needed to get something ready for her father. Link was momentarily worried for her before the feeling was rationalized. Bo would be more than enough to deter any would-be attacker, and despite his gentle demeanor, Bo would show his teeth if anyone were to try to harm his little girl.
Instead, Link turned to Aryll. "You want to get some horseback riding practice in after lunch?"
Aryll brightened up. "Yes! Oh, I have to put on my new riding greaves. Father bought them for me earlier this year, before…"
"Okay, I'll wait in the stables," Link said quickly. "We'll have you saddle Lux so you can learn how to do it."
"Lunch first," Marin said sternly.
It was a simple affair of assorted sandwiches, but the siblings ate their portions, with Link taking more than his fair share. Despite eating more, Link finished first without looking like he was trying to inhale everything and patiently waited, while Aryll, —under the watchful gaze of their mother, —ate prim and proper. She was aching to leave now but continued to eat until she declared she was full.
"Ready, then?" Link asked.
Aryll nodded and dashed off to her room. Link gave his mother a peck on the cheek and went to the stables to ready Epona.
After greeting Cremia and Romani, Link didn't have to wait long before Aryll dashed into the stables, excited at the prospect of finally learning how to ride. Midna was hot on her healsheels, but when the wolf tried to stop, she slid along the slippery hay-covered floor and comically spun in a circle as she fought to keep her balance. Using that as an example, Link and Cremia had to sternly remind Aryll to mind her speed inside the stables, both because of the floor and to avoid startling the horses.
Aryll contritely nodded and apologized.
With Cremia's help, Link showed Aryll how to saddle Lux, ways to ensure her comfort, and checks to ensure a proper fit for the safety of both rider and mount.
"We'll be going at a trot today," Link said. "No speed, no gallop. I want you to get adjusted to the ebb and flow of Lux's movements."
"Okay," Aryll said. "Where to?"
"We'll stay around the house for a bit, then around the village," Link said. "No further, though. If there's any trouble happening, I don't want you thrown off."
Aryll nodded. At Link's permissive look, she clambered atop Lux. The mare was fully grown and larger than what a ninean eight-year-old should be riding, but her temperament was calm, and that attitude and demeanerdemeanor made her just right to teach with. Aryll's attempt to seat herself was a bit clumsy, but she got up on the first try without help.
Link gracefully settled himself atop Epona. He reached out and gave her a scratch around the ears. Aryll saw and quickly did the same for Lux, causing Link to smile.
Cremia led Lux out of the stable for Aryll, while Epona and Midna docillydocilely followed alongside. Once outside, Link began his instruction in earnest. Aryll followed his lessons to the letter, so it wasn't long before they were trotting down the well-worn paths of Mabe Village. There wasn't much conversation as Link continued to point out both flaws and strengths that Aryll was displaying.
After an hour of riding, Aryll finally spoke up. "Can I talk to you about something?"
"Anything," Link replied.
Aryll looked around and saw that there was no one in earshot. "Promise you won't laugh or get mad?"
"That isn't suspicious at all," Link muttered.
"Come on, promise me," Aryll impatiently said.
Link shook his head, refusing to be bullied on this. "Am I going to like this?"
Aryll frowned. "I don't know. Maybe yes, maybe no. But it's really personal, and I don't want you to overreact."
"Am I going to have to keep this a secret from Mother, too?" Link asked.
"Yes."
Link sighed. He glanced down at Midna, but the wolf did not offer any insights. "Fine."
Aryll took a deep breath. "I want to be a knight."
That got his attention sufficiently well. "What?"
She shifted her weight on her saddle to be able to look at him. "You heard me."
Link frowned. "Aryll, do you even know what you're asking? I told you, this isn't a job; it's a commitment, a calling, and a duty. The things you want to do? The ocarina, the dancing? You'd have to stop. Being a knight isn't something you just casually—"
"I know that," Aryll snapped. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "Father and I, we talked about you when you were gone. I asked him why you were gone so much; if you didn't love us or something like that. I was young, so I didn't understand. You know what he said to me?"
Link shook his head.
"He said, 'Aryll, sometimes you have to put aside the things you want to do, in order to do the things that you have to do'," she said solemnly. "He was telling me that you wanted to stay home, but you had a duty to follow. I didn't understand before, but I understand it now."
"Why a knight?" Link asked. "You've never shown interest before."
"Because I didn't understand the kind of danger you and Father were involved in before," Aryll said. "I understand a bit more now,; maybe not all, but enough to know that I can't sit at home safe and sound while you're supposed to fight some giant evil. I want to help."
Link shook his head. "I'm doing this to protect you and Mother, that's the point. Putting you in danger goes against that."
"Well, what if I don't need protection?" Aryll argued.
"You'd still get it," Link retorted. ". Being a knight won't change that. ," Link retorted. "You think Father would stophave stopped protecting me when I became a knight? You think he would stop now that I'm supposed to be this 'hero of legend'?"
Aryll frowned. "Fine, but he would help you. And that's what I want to do, too."
Link sighed. He wanted to argue thehis point more, but he knew it would be hypocritical. He was self-aware enough to know that if their positions were reversed, he would absolutely leap into the fray.
Next to them, Midna whined, uncomfortable with the sudden tension in the air.
"Are you sure about this?" Link asked Aryll.
"I've been thinking about it since Father died, then even more when I heard what happened to you," Aryll replied. "I want to do this."
"I think you should talk to Mother about this," Link said.
"And I will, but I wanted to talk to you first," Aryll said.
Link tilted his head back and closed his eyes, trusting Epona to lead them safely. "I'll consider it further after you talk with Mother. I'm not saying yes or no until we've decided as a family."
Aryll opened her mouth to persist in her case, but she settled on huffing noisily and rigidly facing forward. She held the reins in her hands tightly.
Link stayed silent.
"Do you think Liena would take me as her squire?" Aryll asked.
Shrugging, Link said, "Maybe. I can't speak for her, but she had me for a decadeeight years. I don't know how receptive she would be to take care oftrain another squire. You would likely would get someone else, if only because you're my sister and Father's daughter."
"Why would that matter any more than having Liena training you?" Aryll asked. "I mean, I get that she might not want to train another squire for a while after you, but—"
"We share a name, so people might assume we share skills," Link said. "Father was worried that having the wrong knight training me would affect my growth. He trusted Liena to do what's right by me."
Aryll fell silent as she considered his words. "What do you mean?"
"I think they, Liena and Father, didn't want me to be arrogant or problematic," Link said. "They wanted me to be the best knight I could be, but without being egotistical about it."
"Hmm… I guess they did a passable job of it," Aryll said teasingly.
Link rolled his eyes.
"Do you think I'd be a good knight?" Aryll asked.
"Are you asking in terms of skill or temperament?" Link asked.
"Both, I guess," Aryll said.
Link considered his sister and was silent for several minutes. "Maybe."
"Ha-ha," Aryll muttered.
"I wanted to be a knight at the start, Aryll," Link said, "and that's what I started working towards immediately. You wanted to try the arts, and that's what you've been doing for years. Compared to me, you're starting late, so I can't comment on if you'll have the skills or not. If it makes you feel better, you have the temperament of a knight, easily. Skill will take work, hard work."
Aryll nodded. "I was expecting that."
"And be prepared to handle some resistance from Mother," Link warned. "She'll believe in you if you really want this, but she wants you safe, first and foremost. That's her job."
"I know," Aryll muttered.
Link suddenly recalled an important detail. "Also, the minimum age is ten years. You won't be made a squire until next yearfor two years."
Aryll's mouth dropped open. "What? But you were a squire when you were younger than me!"
"Exigent circumstances," Link said. At Aryll's confused look, he clarified. "It was necessary for me, since I was interested sooner."
Aryll pouted. "That's it?"
Link shrugged and bashfully looked away. "I also sparred with some of the knights, and I might have beaten a few of them…"
"Oh, Father had told me about that," Aryll said. She studied Link's profile for a few silent minutes before asking, "Can you train me until then?"
Link turned to her and arched an eyebrow. "We're going beyond daggers now."
Aryll nodded. "I was thinking of spears, like Father. Or maybe swords, like you and Liena."
"Are you sure about this?" Link asked.
"Oh, maybe we can try archery?," Aryll askedsaid.
"Not what I meant," Link muttered to himself. Louder, he said, "Okay, we can train in archery when we get back until sunset."
Aryll brightly smiled.
"For now, let's change our pace to a brisk cantorcanter," Link said. "Gently nudge Lux's flanks and urge her forward. If she goes faster than a cantorcanter, gently pull back on the reins until she adjusts her speed, okay?"
Aryll nodded.
"Watch," Link said. Using his legs and heels, he tapped Epona, and she nickered in reply. Her trot became a quick cantorcanter at once.
It took Aryll a couple of tries, mainly because she didn't want to hurt Lux by kicking her, but Link assured Aryll that she lacked the strength in her legs to do anything but annoy her mount if she did anything wrong.
Soon, Lux matched Epona's pace, and Aryll delighted at the increased speed. She wanted to go to a full gallop at once, but Link stamped out that idea.
"This is still a lesson," Link sternly said. "We're not here for fun, even if you feel like it is. When you're ready, we'll go faster, but just because you're doing well now doesn't mean you're ready."
Aryll sighed but reluctantly nodded.
They did a few laps around the village, alternating between a trot and a cantorcanter. Link was closely observing how Aryll handled her mount, correcting her as needed and keptkeeping any further comments to himself until the end.
The sun was beginning to set when they returned home. Aryll groaned and rubbed her bottom as she dismounted. "You never mentioned that this would hurt."
"You get used to it," Link said. "Now, there were a few things I have to teach you."
Aryll paid rapt attention to Link when he critiqued her form, informed her about better positions, and pointed out ways to use the reins to communicate effectively with Lux without confusing her. After, with Cremia and Romani's help, Link taught her how to remove the saddle, bit, and bridle, check Lux for any injuries, stones, blisters, or swelling in her hooves and horseshoes, and overall wellbeing of her mount.
"We'll stop here," Link announced. "Next time, we'll teach you how to groom and bathe Lux. It'll be similar to bathing Midna, only with less shaking."
Aryll smirked, knelt down, and cupped Midna's face. "Hear that, Midna? Lux will behave when I bathe her, unlike you."
"Oh, she just wants to share the experience with you," Romani teased.
Midna further punctuated Romani's joke with a light lick on Aryll's cheek.
Aryll insisted on some archery lessons while there was still sunlight left. Link nodded and went to get the old training bows that he'd used when he washad been studying under Captain Teboh.
Aryll was standing next to the archery range Link had created for himself years agoearlier when he'd returned from Hebra.
"Just to warn you, archery won't be any easier than learning swords or spears," Link said. "There's going to be a lot of physical work involved. I don't want to hear you complaining overly much about muscle aches here. Remember, you asked for this."
Aryll opened her mouth, then shut it with a snap.
"Last chance," Link said. "Commitment, not a job."
Aryll stared at the bow and quiver of arrows in Link's hands. She looked back up at him and nodded firmly.
"Are you sure?"
"I'm sure. I want to help you."
Link exhaled noisily. "Part of me believes I should try to talk you out of this…"
Aryll crossed her arms. "Except that would make you a hypo… a hypocryhypocri…?"
"Hypocrite," Link said. "It means to profess a belief that you don't follow yourself."
Aryll nodded. "Right, that."
Link handed her the bow and quiver. "Remember, you're on your own with Mother. She still has a say onin this. If she forbids you, that's it. I'm not ruling or arguing against her."
"Fine," Aryll said determinedly. She tied the quiver to her belt and looked back at him expectantly.
First, Link showed her how to hold the bow, how to draw the bowstring, which muscles would be used, and how to aim. No arrows were nocked as a matter of safety while she was practicing how to handle the bow.
Once he was satisfied, he let her try to nock an arrow.
"Don't draw yet," Link sternly said. "Look down range, not just at the target, but things around the target. You can't assume you'll hit your mark. The last thing you want is for your arrow to strike something you didn't intend to hit, like Midna or Lux."
Aryll's eyes widened, and she looked around. Midna was lying down comfortably on the grass off to the side. Lux was in the stables. There was no one around the target.
"It looks clear," Aryll said.
"Good," Link replied. "Now, draw the arrow back, just like I showed you."
Holding the bow steady in her left hand, Aryll drew her right arm and held her position with a small grunt.
"Sight your target, steady breath, and release," Link said quietly.
When she released the arrow, it flew nice and straight, but missed the target completely.
Aryll pouted. "Aww… I missed."
Link chuckled. "Yeah, but the arrow flew. I've seen beginners at the garrison. Some of their arrows sort of flop to the ground after they release; they didn't seat the arrow properly. Other times, the bowstring sort of misses the arrow and they're standing there with the arrow in their hand instead."
Aryll giggled at the mental image.
"Again," Link ordered. "And try not to miss. Remember, you have to pick up all the arrows you've released, and I know how many arrows wereare in that quiver. If you have to, you have to get on your hands and knees and look for the missed arrows in the grass."
Aryll looked up at him in horror. "Wha—?"
Link crossed his arms and gave her his sternest look. "You wanted this. Every miss is a lesson for you not to miss. It's easier to get the arrows out of the target than out of the grass. Get to it."
"Aww…"
"Changing your mind, then?" Link asked 'casually'. "You don't have to do this."
"No-no-no! I can do this!" Aryll quickly replied.
At his expectant look, she readied her next arrow.
When the sun was cresting overdipping below the horizon, Aryll had spent all of her arrows and had to quickly find the ones that missed, grumbling all the while about her performance.
She wasn't bad, not by any means. Link had seen far worse from soldiers twice her age, so he knew there was potential as well as room for improvement. His thoughts continued along those paths as he helped her by pulling out the arrows that were in the target and placedplacing them into the quiver.
When Aryll returned—all the arrows were found—she asked, "What now?"
"You talk to motherMother," Link said. "There's more to learn, so we can work on that… assuming motherMother lets you pursue this."
Aryll gently toed a stone next to her. "Can you—?"
"You're on your own," Link said definitively.
Aryll pouted.
~o~O~o~
The conversation went as well as Link had predicted. Marin had firmly said no, which brought on a rare familial row, which Link wisely stayed out of. After both ladies shouted their points, Aryll ran to her room and shut herself in.
Link had satwas sitting on the porch with the Master Sword propped upright nearby. He had asked the guards to stand at the gate, near the road, to remain out of earshot. Midna was whining and remained close to him. She had wanted to bark to counter the shouts and screams, but a sharp look from Link ensured she remained silent so his mother and sister could air out their grievances.
Eventually, Marin opened the door and found him patiently waiting for her.
She took a deep breath, wiped her eyes with a handkerchief, and took a seat next to him.
"I don't have any opinion on this," Link said without preamble.
"I saw you were training her in archery," Marin said, with only the tiniest hint of an accusation.
"She asked, and it's along the same lines as training her with a dagger," Link replied. "She did tell me what she wanted to do and why. I told her to talk to you about it and that I would have no opinion whatsoever."
"None?" Marin asked.
Link sighed and scratched Midna's ears. The wolf leaned into his hand in pleasure and comfort. "It's difficult to say. If she startedstarts her training as a knight, the best thing we can do is properly aid her. I mean, what kind of knight would she be if she didn't have family support? At the same time, I want her safe, and if the Divine Beasts are as powerful as I'm told, what I'm supposed to face has to be as powerful, if not more so. That's not something I want Aryll anywhere near."
Marin had to wipe away some more tears as her gaze locked onto the Master Sword.
"I did find myself wondering what fatherFather would think, though," Link murmured. "I mean, if Aryll wanted to be a knight, what he would he do?"
Marin let out a sound between a chuckle, a scoff, and a sigh. "He would encourage it."
"You know Aryll is going to ask Liena to speak on her behalf now," Link tentatively said. "Try to find new ways to argue the point."
"I know," Marin murmured. "Would you warn her tomorrow?"
Link nodded. "Only so far as this is a family issue. Liena can make her own decisions."
Marin was silent for several minutes. They just sat there, watching the fireflies that appeared now that the sun had properly set, and night was now dominant.
"I remember when you and Aryll were chasing fireflies when you came home from Kakariko," Marin said fondly. "It only seemedseems like yesterday."
"We didn't have the heart to put them in jars, though," Link said. "I remember how Father was annoyed that he spent all that time looking for empty jars for us to use, only for us to scold him on how mean it would be to trap fireflies inside them."
Marin finally let out a laugh, a sound Link wasn't sure he would hear again for bit longer, and he found he missed it. "Oh, he was happy that you and Aryll had such good hearts."
Link smiled and continued to give Midna a few scratches. However, the wolf sensed Marin's distress and moved to lay her head on her lap. Marin smiled at the gesture and started stroking Midna's soft fur.
"We'll let Aryll have her privacy tonight," Marin said quietly. "Would you be a dear and bring her dinner?"
Link nodded.
"And thank you, for moving the guardsmen away," Marin added.
"It seemed like the right thing to do," Link said.
After giving Midna one last pet, Marin shooed the wolf off and stood up. "I need to clean myself up. I'll prepare dinner shortly."
"I'll be inside to help soon," Link said. "I just want to enjoy the quiet a little bit longer."
Marin stroked Link's head and smiled. "Okay."
After she went inside, Link got up and got to work in preparation for Aryll's next lesson. Putting everything together was easy enough, taking him only an hour or so.
Once finished, he meandered back to the house, wondering how he was going to navigate tomorrow's tension.
~o~O~o~
Central Hyrule – Knights' Garrison
"And she wants to be a knight?" Liena asked. "Is she serious about it?"
Link shrugged. "I have no idea. Mother said no, however, so it's likely Aryll will want to talk to you next to speak on her behalf when you come by for patrol."
Liena frowned. "And… what do you want me to do?"
"I'm asking that you distance yourself from it," Link said. "Let them figure it out. But it's your choice on what you want to do."
"And what's your opinion?" Liena asked.
"I don't have one," Link answered once again. "If Mother says no, that's it. If Aryll trains to be a knight, I'm going to help however I can, but until a decision emerges, I'm staying out of it."
"You're going to do nothing?" Liena asked.
"If Aryll really wants this, then this is demonstrating her resolve," Link said. "Either this is a passing flight of fancy brought on by her worry for me, or she's deadly serious and she'll keep at it, despite any and all opposition."
"You're testing her," Liena said. "Very shrewd."
Link grunted and gave Epona a loving scratch.
They were in the stables. It was early morning, but Link had wanted to catch up with Liena before she left on patrol.
"When do you think Aryll will speak to me?" Liena asked.
Feeding Epona a carrot, Link considered her question. "Today was supposed to be music lessons, but Aryll didn'tdoesn't want to go. Protesting, I suspect. I told her to train with the wooden dagger and to not touch the bow until I'm home. Eventually, Aryll will remember that if she goes to music lessons, she'll have a chance to talk to you. Next lesson will be the day after tomorrow, so she might be here. Probably sneak out of music class and run for the garrison, either to talk to you or the knight-commander."
Liena nodded. "I'll pass the word around. When she arrives, the guardsmen will direct her to the Knight-Commander's office, and we'll have her wait there until I can talk to her."
"Thanks, Liena," Link said. "I have to go report to Captain Auru. Stay safe out there."
"Sir, yes, sir," Liena joked. "If those are your orders, Sir Link."
Link chuckled. "Liena, I could be the king of Hyrule, and Iit would still feel awkward having you call me anything but Link."
Liena laughed and waved goodbye before mounting up and riding off.
Upon arriving at the Castle, Link made his way to where Auru usually was. Link was getting more used to the Castle's layout, but there were still times he wished he had a map. He only knew direct routes to the major locations, but any deviation, and he would get turned aroundlost.
When Link found him, Auru said he had no mission to offer to Link, though he did wish to talk to him.
"You were there when Vah Medoh was activated, correct?" Auru asked.
Link nodded. "If you're going to ask me to inquire who should be the pilot for Vah Medoh, I already know the answer. The Rito will only accept one man, no matter my recommendation."
Auru arched hisan eyebrow. "Who?"
"Revali," Link said. As much as he didn't want to admit it, Link knew that the Rito would only ever accept their archery champion as their Rito representative. Personally, Link didn't gethadn't gotten to know the prideful archer at all—during his time training atin Hebra or at the tournament—but Revali would be the only one the Rito would stand behind.
Which was a shame, because Link would have liked to work alongside Captain Teboh again.
"He was the finalist you faced off in the Four Swords, wasn't he?" Auru saidasked.
Link nodded.
Auru crossed his arms. "Your thoughts about him?"
Just as Link was about to answer, King Rhoam and High Priest Rauru rounded the corner. They both paused when they spotted themLink and Auru.
Immediately, both Auru and Link kneeled.
King Rhoam inclined his head, and both men stood back up.
"Are we interrupting something?" Rauru asked.
Link looked atback and forth between Rauru and Auru, and he couldn't help but see some striking physical similarities.
"We were speaking about the potential candidate for Vah Medoh," Auru askedsaid. "Link was part of the security detachment for the Sheikah researchers when they were dispatched to reactivate the Divine Beast at Hebra. During that time, Link spent some time among the Rito."
"Ah, yes, I recall that," King Rhoam said. "That was seven years ago. You had just started out as a squire."
Link nodded.
Auru gestured to Link. "Tell His Majesty what you told me."
"The Rito finalist I fought in the Four Swords Tournament, Revali, is held in extremely high regard among the Rito. He's something of a local hero there," Link dutifully said. "It is very unlikely that the Rito would accept anyone else but Revali to be their representative as Vah Medoh's pilot."
King Rhoam nodded. "Well, that simplifies things. What is your opinion of Revali?"
"My honest assessment?" Link asked.
"Of course."
"I don't know him well enough to make an accurate determination," Link said. "What I do know of him is that he's… confident. Perhaps too confident."
"You mean arrogant?" Auru asked.
Link shrugged. "Maybe. I don't know."
King Rhoam frowned. "Would you recommend him as a pilot?"
"No, but I doubt it would be my choice," Link said neutrally. "The Rito will be unanimous in their decision. I'm afraid it will be up to His Majesty to determine how to proceed without offending them."
King Rhoam and Auru shared a look before their gazes returned to Link.
"Will you be able to work with him?" King Rhoam asked. "Will there be any residual feelings after his loss against you?"
Link nodded. "He may have some resentment against me, but I'm sure I'll find a way to work around that."
"Do you believe he has the right temperament for the responsibility?" Rauru asked. "The undertaking before you is enormous, and not all are fit to bear this task upon their shoulders."
Link shrugged. "I don't know him well enough for that. He seems to be the type to tackle challenges head-on, but whether he does so wisely is something I cannot remark upon. At the very least, I doubt he'll run away. He does seem interested in personal glory, but not in the sense that he'll be malicious about it. Like many things, it's complicated."
All three men shared an uncertain look before King Rhoam spoke. "Thank you for your input, Link. We shall look into this matter carefully."
Link saluted, as did Auru.
After the king and the high priest left, Link turned to Auru. "Captain, are you and—?"
"He's my fatherbrother," Auru said. He gave Link a wry smile. "Many people draw that distinctionconclusion when we're side-by-side. Your, your father included."
Link nodded.
"Would you happen to have any secondary recommendations this time around?" Auru asked.
"My archery trainer, Captain Teboh," Link said immediately. "But I doubt he'll accept the position if asked and will defer you to Revali."
Auru sighed. "Very well. Thank you for the information. We shall speak again if there are any new concerns."
Parting ways, Link wandered the castle for a bit to get a feel for the corridors. Likes yesterday, many of the castle staff stopped and looked at him in wide-eyed wonder, their eyes locked onto him or the Master Sword. Link quietly ignored them and continued his exploration.
After an hour of aimless wandering, he turned a corner and nearly ran headlong into Princess Zelda. His sudden appearance shocked her so much that she nearly dropped a small rectangular object. She juggled the item for a second or two before desperately clutching it against her chest.
She let out a sigh of relief.
Link knelt before her. "Are you well, your highnessYour Highness?"
Princess Zelda shot him an irritated look. Rather than answering him, she inspected the Sheikah object in her hands—Link could see the Sheikah Crestcrest prominently emblazoned on the back—and sighed in relief.
"It looks to be fine," she murmured to herself. Once assured that her device was still in working order, Princess Zelda gave Link a curt nod and continued on her way.
Link stood up and observed her retreating back until she rounded a corner, shrugged to himself, and resumed exploring.
~o~O~o~
Central Hyrule – Mabe Village
After getting a more accurate mental map of Hyrule Castle, Link left for home. He had gotten tired of all the whispers and stares.
The ride back was calm and leisurely. The seasons were beginning to transition from Fallfall to Winterwinter, so there was a brisk chill in the air that Link reveled in. It wouldn't be long before he and Aryll would be tossing snowballs at one another while Midna would tromp around in the snow.
Link arrived home just before lunch. He spotted his sister outside, striking at a straw training dummy with a wooden dagger. Next to her was a bow and quiver. As Link rode closer, he could see the quiver was still full, so he dismounted and let Cremia take care of Epona as he walked up to Aryll.
"You and Mother still mad at each other?" Link asked.
Aryll didn't turn around or answer. However, her attacks were definitely more aggressive.
Link sighed. "Okay, let's get started with archery. How are you feeling, physically?"
Aryll stopped practicing and wiped some sweat off her brow. "A little sore."
"Yeah, I'm going to make that worse," Link bluntly replied. "Much worse."
Aryll balked a bit at his proclamation before slapping her cheeks and forced herself to focus. "I can do it."
Link hid his smirk. "Yesterday, we only exposed you to archery. We started a bit late and lost the daylight. Today we're going to properly train, just to give you an idea of what you're in for. After today, you probably won't even touch a bow for a couple of weeks."
Aryll blinked. "Why not?"
"Because you're going to need physical strength to use a bow. Or a sword. Or a spear," Link said. "Which means exercise. Lots of it."
Aryll paled a bit before sighing. "Right, I knew that."
"And endurance training."
"Got it."
"And footwork."
"Okay, I get it."
"And mindfulness."
Aryll put her hands on her hips and glared. "Are you trying to scare me off onof this?"
"I'm being deadly serious," Link said with a neutral gaze of his own. "Remember, in defense of Hyrule, we're asked to fight enemies of Hyrule. Which, which often means putting our lives at risk. You want to fight at less than perfection?"
Upon hearing that, Aryll's indignation wilted.
Link sighed. "Look, I'm not doing anything to you that I either haven't done myself or wouldn't do myself, okay?"
He had to pause for a moment to make sure he said that right as Aryll processed what he said.
"So, what did Captain Teboh do?" Aryll asked.
"I had to lift rocks," Link bluntly answered. "With one arm, each side individually."
Aryll's shoulders seemed to sag a little. "And… what did Liena do?"
"The same thing, because there was nothing much for her to do but join me in training," Link replied. "I'm not being mean to you. I'm being realistic."
Aryll sighed. Before they could continue, Romani ran up to them.
"Link, Aryll, hi!" Romani said. In her hand was a bow.
"Romani, hi," Link said. "Where did you get that bow?"
"AhUh, I asked Aryll," Romani shyly answered. "When I saw her training yesterday, I was interested in learning as well."
"She asked if she could join us today," Aryll said. "I let her borrow one of your old bows. That's fine, right?"
"I don't mind, but I need to inspect it to make sure it's in working order," Link said, slightly bemused. "I haven't used them in a while, so checking the bowstring, the string notch, the limbs, and the riser is important for your safety."
When both girls tilted their heads in confusion, Link chuckled. He took the bow from Romani's hand and sat them both down for some quick instructions on the bow's structure of the bow, how to check for problems, and maintenance.
Later, both girls were loosing arrows at separate targets. Since Romani was the same age as Link, as well as a farm and stable hand, she had significant physical musculature over Aryll. Romani was able to hold the bow steady, draw further, and release smoothermore smoothly.
Satisfied with Romani's progress, Link patted Aryll on the shoulder. "Okay, that's enough with technique. Time for exercise."
Aryll looked like she was about to pout, but she found the steel in her spine and stood straighter. "Okay."
"Keep practicing, Romani," Link said. "I'll be back soon."
As the siblings walked off, Aryll looked back at Romani. "She's doing better than I am."
"Don't compare yourself to others," Link said. "You only need to compare yourself to yourself."
Aryll blinked at him.
Link grinned. "One of my earliest lessons. I was taught to improve at my own pace. If I was doing better than yesterday, the day before, or even a year before, then I was improving. I don't have to compare myself to anyone else."
"Oh," Aryll replied simply.
"Also, Romani is older, stronger, and used to physical work and discomfort," Link said. "Guess what? We're going to work on that, except the older part. That's on you."
They arrived near the well, where Link had set up a pulley system similar to what he had used at Rito Village.
"Here you are," Link said.
Aryll looked at what Link had done to their well and looked back at him. "What am I supposed to do?"
Link grasped the rope, put his hand against the post he'd hammered into the ground, and started pulling. "This."
Aryll maneuvered around him until she saw the position he was standing in and how his arm was moving. "Oh! It's like drawing a bow."
Link let the rope go. "Be thankful. You're only picking up a bucket of water from the well using this. Remember, I had to lift—"
"—rocks, I remember," Aryll muttered.
"Which is something you'll eventually be doing when I can put that rig together," Link said. He wickedly grinned at her. "You'll love it."
Rather than answering him, she rolled her shoulders, walked up to the rope, copied his position, and started pulling.
"Ten times, in sets of three," Link ordered. "Swap arms after with a ten-minute break in between sessions. Pushing your limits is fine, injuring yourself isn't."
Aryll was already breathing a little heaviermore heavily and could only nod.
"I'm going to check on Romani now," Link said. "I will be back."
Nodding again, Aryll continued her efforts.
As Link went back to his modest archery range, Cremia walked up to him.
"Hello, Cremia," Link said. "Looking for archery lessons, too?"
Cremia shook her head. "No, nothing like that. I just wanted to thank you, on behalf of Romani. It's kind of you to take time out of your day to teach her."
"My responsibilities will vary now," Link answered. "Some days, I have nothing,; others will require me to be off at a moment's notice. It's fine, I don't mind spending time teaching her."
They approached Romani, who was still trying to get used to the bow. Her accuracy was similar to Aryll's earlier attempts, more misses than hits, but that was expected for a novice.
"Any problems nocking the arrow?" Link asked.
Romani shook her head. "It's harder than I thought, though."
"That's what practice is for," Link said. "You and Aryll will be swapping between practice and strength training, I think. For now, let me adjust your stance."
Link spent the day teaching the girls archery. For Romani, it was interest. For Aryll, it was serious, and she approached it as such. When archery lessons were over, Romani thanked Link for his time, promised to be on time for further training tomorrowthe next day, and caught up with her older sister for their chores. Even with muscles aching, Aryll requested that they continue with daggers, with the intention to move on to swords after.
"Shield, too?" Link asked.
Aryll was rubbing her sore arms as she considered her options. "Do you usually use one?"
"Sometimes yes, sometimes no," Link answered. "It depends on my mood, really…"
"That's helpful," Aryll said dryly.
"Chalk it up to personal preference, then," Link retorted.
The talk of shields reminded him that there was something he'd wanted to try since his sojourn into Death Mountain but had yet to try. He got lost in thought and was startled when Aryll started waving her hand in front of his face.
"What?" Link asked.
"Well, do you have a recommendation for me?" Aryll asked, mildly indignant.
"How about we start with swords first and go from there?" Link suggested. "We all have some minor traits that make our style our own. Maybe you'll like having a shield, maybe you'll prefer to be nimble and quick."
And so, their morning and afternoon progressed with several hours of training. By the time they were done, Aryll was fairly dragging herself back into the house. Out of pity, Link offered to clean up, though he warned her that she would be doing it herself, since it would be part of her duties as a squire.
Link cleaned himself up and entered the kitchen to help cook dinner. He was directed to the sink, where vegetables were waiting.
"You're still teaching her, I see," Marin said.
Link started washing the vegetables and nodded. "We did agree that she should learn to defend herself."
"And is that all you're doing?" Marin asked.
"I'm in the Royal Guard, Mother," Link said. "I can't take a squire, and I wouldn't take Aryll as one anyway."
"Because she's your sister?"
"Because she can manipulate me too well."
That produced a lively laugh out of his mother. When she calmed down, she took a breath and looked Link in the eyes. "Does she still wish to be a knight?"
"So far, yes," Link said. He stretched his senses as far as they could go. He thought he could hear the faint rumblings of Aryll's complaints to Midna in the sanctity of her room, so it was likely that she wasn't eavesdropping.
Marin sighed and brought a bowl over to Link so she could gather the vegetables. "I can't stand the thought of it."
"She's only nineeight," Link said. "She has until Nayru's Season to decide."
"You think she'll change her mind?" Marin asked hopefully.
"I think I should test her and see what happens," Link carefully said. "Being a knight is physically and mentally demanding. I talked to Liena about it earlier this morning. If I train Aryll and she wants to abandon the attempt, then you have nothing to worry about. If she sticks with it for the next few months, you'll know she has resolve. It might be better to support her, rather than alienate her."
Marin arranged the vegetables on the cutting board and started working. However, she mulled over his words. "That's rather clever."
With her back to him, she missed Link's faint smile at the familiar conversation he'd had with Liena earlier. "In the meantime, you can make something resembling peace with her. Ask her why she wants to be knight, probe her a little."
"I did," Marin groused.
"Then ask her if she understands what she's asking for," Link said. "All I know is that she wants to help me. I don't want to say anything, because I understand where she's coming from, even if I don't want her to be in danger. Maybe she could be a healer or something else,. I don't know."
Marin perked up at that. "Oh, a healer would be nice."
"Well, we'll see, then," Link said. "You have a few months to sway her."
Shaking her head in either bemusement or irritation, they resumed cooking lunch.
Link coaxed Aryll out of her room to eat with them, eventually threatening to stop giving her lessons if she didn't come down. She countered by saying that she didn't want their mother to give her a lecture about her decision. Marin had agreed, and they finally sat together for a family meal.
It was only until about halfway through that Aryll gasped in realization. "Oh, wait, it's your birthday tomorrow, isn't it?!"
Link gave her a bemused look. "That's why I came home from Zora's Domain. And you said that yesterday. Forgot me so fast? How sad."
Aryll stuck her tongue out at him.
"What would you like for your birthday?" Marin asked.
"Peace and quiet," Link said promptly. "But failing that, I'd like a pair of new boots. I'd like a new bow, but I suspect I can get something out of the Royal Armory now."
"Oh, what about a new quiver?" Aryll asked. "The armory will probably have only stock items. We can get something customized for you!"
"I'd like that," Link said.
"I'm sure there's a bowyer we can find in Castle Town tomorrow," Aryll said. "I need to tell Paige that I have to stop coming. Maybe Liena can recommend one?."
Link and Marin shared a private look before Link nodded. "Okay, though it's more likely that Leon or Astoria would know more people."
At the reminder, Aryll giggled. "They were interesting to meet."
"Well, a trip to Castle Town for your birthday, then," Marin said.
Link smiled and continued to eat.
One last attempt at normalcy before it's all gone.