How Zelda Got Her Groove Back

by ZeldaRubix

Seven years after the events of Twilight Princess, Zelda is queen. However, she must right the wrongs of the past and help a broken hero heal. What lies ahead for the queen? She will be guided with the help of an unexpected friend. Reupload. Original upload May 2012.

5. Chapter 5

Inspiration: Riddles, and The Legend of Zelda (original), Audiomachine "Tree of Life" album for the 2020 reedit.

Original Shout Outs: Lizzyytx33, DorkyReader859, Mystery-chan, Anonymous, ShadowMistress13, HUNG DEAD SCREAMING, and DawnAndNightfall, thanks for reading.

Author Note: Reuploaded 3/4/2020. Re-edited 3/23/2020.

Word Count: 17,546

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Chapter 5

Later that Night, Link

I sat on my bed and stared at the fire burning across the room for what seemed like forever. I didn't know where to begin when it came to what I was thinking. Today was confusing. Today was very confusing. Even so, the result of it left me frustrated. Admittedly however, at the same time I was also relieved for some strange reason. I didn't know what to make of it. Why was this happening now? Why did she have to show up at my doorstep and back into my life? What was really going on? The last person, and I do mean the last person, I was expecting to see today or any day was Queen Zelda. I hadn't spoken to her in over five years.

I couldn't conceive what would prompt the most powerful woman in the country to leave the safety of her castle and seek out the assistance of a peasant in the countryside. Why in the world was she traveling alone with no escort? What were her regents thinking allowing her to leave like this? It was dangerous for her to be going at this alone. She could have been captured, robbed, assaulted, left for dead -anything. I didn't think the queen rightly understood the stakes. And then she comes here and espouses a proposition, but not just any proposition, a radical one. She promised to take me back to the Twilight Realm to see Queen Midna again. But how? Why now? What was in it for her? The notion seemed too outlandish to be believable. I wonder if the Twilight Realm story was a cover for something greater going on. Was there some other threat to the land? Was there something else simmering in the background the queen wasn't telling me?

I couldn't be sure.

It was a lot to ponder.

Even so, Zelda expected me to make an expedient decision, and me being me, she knew I would. Now I had doubts. Now I had reservations. But, being a man of my word I was going to go with the queen. Was it even possible to get the the Twilight Realm again? The mirror was destroyed by Midna herself. My efforts in finding a second one were nil. So, how would even getting back to the Twilight Realm be possible? To compound the situation, Zelda and I had our issues. These weren't just middle of the road problems. We had deeply seeded issues. I was half expecting the queen to at least talk about it when she first saw me, but she could not, and that constituted a problem. We couldn't travel together and pretend the past never happened. It was a hard subject to discuss. I knew that. But, sooner or later we were going to have to deal with it. Admittedly though, there were things I just did not want to talk about, and seeing her brought all that back to mind. It made me think about some of the things I did. The bloodshed. The innocence lost... No, no I did not want to think about those days any longer. It was over.

Even so, I couldn't lie, the idea of seeing Midna again was mind blowing. I still remember my adventuring with her. She was something else, even though at first I didn't really like her. Then over time I began to understand her and grew to love her. Midna was special. She was the kind of woman a man met once in his life. She was a different kind of wonderful because she was so unique... she was so beautiful. I wonder if she changed much. Seven years is a long time not seeing a person. What if she were married now? What if she had a family? It was a possibility. So, why go back when there was possibly no future? On the other hand, maybe that wasn't the case at all. Maybe Midna was longing to see me the way I was longing to see her. The foolish thing to do would be to squander this opportunity. If I could see her once more, I should definitely try. It was a risk worth taking.

There was another matter to consider as well, and that was Zelda's feelings. The queen and I had a complicated past to say the least. I was an adviser to her, and the former leader of her task force for counter intelligence. In spite of us wanting to keep our relationship professional, it didn't stay that way. I saw she was lonely. She had all this power and no one to really trust. I wanted her to trust me, which she did. I remember her being shy and taking her time opening up to me. But, when she did, I found out who she really was. And truthfully, Zelda was a beautiful person. Very beautiful. She confided in me about her father and some of her fears for the country. She cared about the poor, but was honest in saying she did not know how to relate to some of the peasants. She asked for my advice when it came to certain decisions regarding logistics, stating to me privately she did not trust one of her advisers. She wasn't at all the ice queen many in her court accused her of being. She was just shy. Painfully shy and alone. In light of all that, I heard rumors basically from everyone that she was in love with me. She never told me herself, but I had a feeling she never told me to protect her heart.

I couldn't lie. I made promises to her I did not keep. I made allusions to her I did not fall through with. This was not one sided by any means. I became selfish and arrogant in some of my dealings with her. I knew she loved me. I knew she did. And, I used her feelings as a weapon against my opposers. However, I never reciprocated her feelings rightly, and the fallout between us was bitter. Then it got ugly. And for a long time, I thought I hated Zelda. I thought I hated the woman I swore to protect. In time, I couldn't bring myself to think such things any longer. It wasn't only her fault. It was the both of us and I knew that. So, why did I snap at her the way I did yesterday? Why was I still so angry with her when I knew the truth? Even so, I would never openly admit this to her right now, but there was a part of me who would never betray her. There was a part of me that would always be willing to do whatever she wanted. I would always answer the call of duty if she called me for it. Zelda represented my innate love for Hyrule. I would never not serve her.

In light of everything, physically Zelda hadn't changed at all. She was still the most beautiful woman in Hyrule. She still spoke, walked, and conducted herself like a living goddess. Everything about her was living breathing perfection: her eyes, her countenance, her manner, her speech. Everything. Her grace and dignity could not be matched. And, the way she handled her power was almost like an art form. It was no secret that I admired her strength, but it was the vulnerable woman beyond the royal mystique that was the true jewel. I knew the quiet, shy girl she rarely showed to other people. She was only Hylian after all. Even so, I could also tell the stronger aspects of her character hadn't changed either. She was still as stubborn and strong willed as ever. I never knew a woman as unyielding as she, for good or bad. I think the only fair comparison would be to one of my goats. Only one of my goats could give Zelda a run for her rupee.

Presently, I was still contemplating while watching the fire. I thought back to earlier in the evening. I thought about how Zelda was trying to be friendly and obliging, and how she in turn was subjected to that horrible evening at supper with Ilia and me. Talk about embarrassment. I had no idea Ilia was going to act out the way she did. No idea. I never would have allowed Zelda to witness such an ordeal.

What an embarrassing mess.

What was Ilia thinking? What was I thinking?

I continued to stare at the fire.

"Dear Hylia, why did she have to come back now? Why now?"

I got up from my bed and walked over to my washing area where my basin and tub were. I was still in my training clothes from earlier. I hadn't thought to change. My mind was too preoccupied. Even so, I needed to get ready for bed. I had to get up at dawn for the departure. Nothing was going to come of me just sitting here. With that, I pulled my sweaty shirt over my head and prepared to wash up. However, soon after, I heard a knock on my door. I paused for a moment. If it was Ilia I was going to send her away. I've had enough of her shenanigans for one night.

"Who is it?" I called.

There was a brief pause.

"It's Rusl," the voice promptly answered.

I groaned audibly when I heard the name, knowing I was in for a scolding. Rusl and I were the only ones who knew of Zelda's true identity, and with the way I lashed out at her in front of everyone, I knew he was here to put me back in my place. I just wasn't in the mood for it tonight. However, I wasn't going to send him away either. He probably wouldn't let me.

Get this over with Link, I told myself.

"Come in," I completely removed my shirt.

The door opened and Rusl walked in. He looked upset and wasted no time showing his displeasure in what happened earlier. He gave me a brief once over before he spoke.

"What's gotten into you? Did you not know to whom you were speaking? That was the queen."

I didn't answer him right away and splashed some water on my face, then lathered my hands with some soap.

"I knew who it was."

Rusl looked at me stunned.

"And you still think that was appropriate behavior? Look, no one is saying you don't have a right to be angry. You do. I know that more than anyone, but you were acting like a fool!"

I was aware of that too.

I didn't want to hear this.

"I'm not a child Rusl. I don't need a lecture."

He wasn't going to let that slide.

"If you don't want to be treated like a child then stop acting like one. The fact that she came here at all should tell you something is brewing in the kingdom. We need to be on alert if that's the case. She may need our help."

I was aware of that too, but I wasn't going to divulge that to him.

"What you think she may be asking for and what she did ask for are two very different things Rusl. It doesn't necessarily mean it's a matter of kingdom security."

He was frustrated with my attitude.

"Do you hear yourself? What difference does it make Link?" he demanded. "She's still here!"

I was trying to get him to understand that.

"Rusl-"

"You will apologize to her for your disrespectful behavior. She is a Queen of Hyrule and deserves to be treated with the utmost respect. Don't forget you had a play in your dealings with her in the past too! You are not a victim here Link."

I rolled my eyes and looked away. I didn't answer right away.

"I'm aware of that."

Rusl nodded.

"Be more aware of it and put your personal feelings aside. It's imperative that we tell her about this Arbiter's cult that's starting to manifest itself too. She may not be aware of what is going on in the fringes of Hylian society."

I didn't reply, but knew he was right. He didn't have very much more to add after that, nor I to him.

"I'll see you at dawn for your departure," he said.

I still didn't reply. I just nodded.

When he left, I looked at my reflection and knew that I was holding onto some unnecessary resentment. The man staring back at me really was turning into a 'bitter fool' like one of my dear late friend's once warned me about years ago. I turned to my side just then and glanced at my back, staring at the horrible reminder of the past, but then quickly looked away in disgust.

You aren't the only one with scars Link. She has her own set of scars too.

I reminded myself of that again as I washed up and once more when I laid down in bed. However, before I drifted off to sleep, I pulled from underneath my pillow a beautifully embroidered cloth. It was given to me by the queen right before I left the castle some time ago. I kept it hidden under my pillow for years, taking it out from time to time to contemplate its personal significance to me. I would never forget Zelda's parting words when she gave this to me.

"Try to think better of me Link... try to see me as you did before..." her voice echoed through my head from that fateful memory.

I took in a deep sigh.

"Miss Elga, huh?" I whispered cryptically.

I clutched the handkerchief and in a minute decision decided it was going with me. Perhaps it would bring me a little luck. Having made up my mind, I finally closed my eyes to go to sleep. Dawn would be here before I knew it and I needed to be ready. After all, I was going to have royalty waiting for me.

~SSS~

The next morning, Zelda

The next morning I woke up at dawn and got ready for my departure. I took extra precautions to be quiet. I didn't want to wake Ilia if it wasn't necessary. I made sure I had all of my things packed and ready to go. Admittedly, I didn't get very much sleep last night. The bed I slept in was comfortable in the other room, but considering the former night's festivities, sleep had fleeted me. In the main living area, I looked around to see if I was leaving anything behind, but everything I had in my possession was accounted for. Unfortunately however, when I was making my way to the front door, I stumbled over a table. I couldn't see it in the dark in the middle of the room and broke what looked like to be a porcelain kitty resting on top of it.

My eyes widened immediately at the mishap.

"Oh no!" I whispered, quickly bending over to dispose of the fragments.

As I worked, I looked over to the closed door where Ilia resided. I fully expected her to come into the living room with fire brimming out of her nose ready to launch at me. I braced myself for an onslaught of pernicious words. However, as the waiting prolonged, I was surprised that she didn't appear. I waited a little longer, and still nothing. A few minutes later, but still nothing.

I raised a brow afterward.

That's some sleep.

However, it was then I realized something wasn't right. If she was here, she would have heard what happened and awakened.

Wait a minute...

I was getting concerned. I looked at Ilia's closed door puzzled.

How did she not hear that?

Afterward, I walked up to the door slowly, worried that something may have been wrong with her. I knocked and listened intently for a few moments.

There was no answer. My concern deepened.

"Miss Ilia," I called out finally, "are you alright in there?"

There was still no answer.

I paused, realizing I was keeping Link waiting, but Ilia's absence was bothering me.

Maybe she's tending to some duty at a neighbor's home. Maybe I'm just overreacting, I'll make sure I'll alert someone just in case.

I went back to the middle of the room to clean up the rest of the pottery before picking up my satchel. I disposed of the hardened clay in a wastebasket by the entrance. I stopped before I opened the door, taking one last look at myself in the mirror nearby. I turned to my side to make sure my braid was tied together properly and hidden underneath my cloak, then headed out the door. However, when I stepped onto the small porch, I was surprised to find Ilia awake and waiting for me at the end of the dirt road. She was holding a basket along with a piece of jewelry of some kind in her hands. I didn't want to appear mean spirited, but I would have preferred her not seeing me off. After the uncomfortable evening at dinner and her apparent dislike for me, I doubt she had any sincere well wishings for my journey. Even still, I didn't want to be rude.

Make this pleasant Zelda, I told myself anyway. You just broke something valuable in her home.

I sighed and forced a smile across my face, then approached her at the end of the pathway. I wasn't going to say anything untoward. I was going to be friendly and obliging.

"Good morning Miss Ilia," I greeted.

She returned my smile with a grin.

"Good morning Miss Elga."

Ilia seemed more at ease this morning than the night before and for that I was grateful. However, it made me ponder.

I wonder if she heard that break from out here.

"I want to thank you for accommodating me. I greatly appreciate it and I shan't forget it. Supper was wonderful as well as the lodging."

Ilia grinned at me and stroked her light blonde hair behind her ears.

"It was no problem Miss Elga," she then looked to the ground embarrassed and added, "I want to apologize again for my behavior last night. I realize in retrospect that I made you extremely uncomfortable."

I wasn't expecting the apology. I stared at her surprised, but then softened my features with a warm smile.

"Don't worry about that Miss Ilia. We all have our occasional mishaps."

I should know, considering the porcelain I broke, I just did.

Ilia looked at me thankfully, but went on to apologize again anyway.

"That was more than a mishap. That was a disgrace."

I felt a sudden sense of compassion for her. Perhaps I misjudged her.

"Trust me. No one knows better than I of the consequences of a disgraceful action. What you had last night was merely a moment. Hylia will grant you grace if you pray to her for it."

Ilia was taken aback by my kind words. So much so, that she came up to me and gave me a hug. Surprised by the display of affection, I hugged her back. I feel now that I judged her too harshly, too prematurely. I realized that was one of my follies. I should not be so quick to judge. I had no idea what this woman had gone through, or what her story in life was. Who was I to make an adjudication of her behavior after one night of being in her company? It was preposterous.

When Ilia pulled back, she held up the basket and the piece of jewelry.

"I made you and Link some pastries, but tell him to go easy on the Hylian butter cookies. Link will devour those things if he knows they're there."

That was a surprising bit of information.

So, the hero has a sweet tooth. I never would have guessed.

I smiled and giggled at the gesture. I took the basket amiably. I appreciated her goodwill.

"Thank you so much. That was very thoughtful of you." Then I took note of the necklace. "What's that?"

Ilia clutched it in her palm tightly for a moment. But, then she took hold of my free hand and placed the authentic looking jewelry in it. She looked at me earnestly afterward.

"Please use this anytime you feel lost. It helps a person find there way back to you."

I looked at her surprised, not expecting such an explanation for something so simple looking.

"It does what?"

Ilia paused.

"It helps you find your way if you're lost," she repeated.

I now stared at the jewelry slightly taken aback. I wasn't sure I should be accepting such a gift. This seemed priceless.

"Miss Ilia, I don't think you should be giving this to me, why would you-"

However, she prevented my objection.

"Please take it, I'm trying my best to make amends for yesterday."

I felt a twinge of guilt when I heard that. She wasn't the only misfit last night. I had my part too.

"There is no need to make amends, you weren't the only person at fault," I reassured. "I wasn't very forthcoming myself, and besides it's over."

Ilia sighed.

"I know you're trying to be kind, but I know what I put you through. That... that wasn't the first time I've acted that way."

I looked at her concerned by her disclosure. I was sincerely touched she revealed something so personal.

"Miss Ilia..." I did not know what to say.

She stared at the necklace for a moment.

"Link... Link gave that to me to help me get my memories back when I had amnesia. I hope it can be of some use to you."

Now I was really surprised that she was willing to let something like this be taken out of her possession, especially with its history related to Link. If I had something so dear, I didn't think I could ever part from it. Why would she give this away to someone going on a pumpkin delivery? Perhaps she already knew it wasn't a pumpkin delivery we were going on. Perhaps she had seen the hero go off and not return for long periods of time under different pretenses in the past. She was more perceptive than I gave her credit for, and that was probably why she was so scared. The Hyrulean Festival was roughly five months away. Why would she ask about Link taking her unless she knew this was more than either the hero or I were letting on? I clutched the necklace tightly just then and made a solemn promise.

"I swear to you... I swear to you," I vowed emphatically, "I will return this to you unscathed. You have my word Miss Ilia."

She smiled at my conviction and blushed for some odd reason.

"Thank you, I don't know why, but I have a feeling you will."

Ilia then avoided my eyes. It was in that moment I decided to inform her about my mishap with the porcelain glass. It wouldn't be right for me to take something so precious from her, while at the same time leaving her in the dark about something else that was probably very valuable. Now was the time to confess.

"Um… I have something I need to tell you."

Ilia waited for me to go on.

"Yes?"

I took a step back, paused, but then just came out and told her the truth.

"I…" I trailed again, "oh Miss Ilia I'm so sorry, I broke an expensive looking piece of porcelain when I stumbled over your tea table in the living room this morning."

At first, I didn't think she heard me and thought to repeat myself. However, then I realized she was just studying me to gauge my reaction. Ilia finally smiled.

"I know," she divulged, "I heard it when it happened."

I bit my lower lip, feeling terrible.

"I'm dreadfully sorry," I apologized again. "I will buy you another."

Ilia's smile widened.

"That's alright, Link has broken more porcelain on that table more times than I can count."

I looked at her surprised at her confession and grinned myself.

"Has he?" Never thinking of Link as the clumsy type.

Ilia nodded.

"Yes," she blushed again and chuckled to herself, "that man."

I stared at her thoughtfully for a moment, realizing just how much she truly cared for the hero.

She really must love him.

"Well," I said with a hint of finality, "I must be going, I have a long journey ahead of me."

Ilia nodded again, then stepped out of the way. However, before I could go, she stopped me once more.

"Will you…" she began, not looking at me, "will you make sure Link takes care of himself, especially when he rides his horse? He can be so reckless at times and poor Epona pays the price. Besides, Link always says his journeys will be shorter than what they turn out to be and that never ends up being the case. I just want him to have some incentive to come home. Maybe a reminder telling him to be safe will give him that."

Ilia's concern for the hero was so genuine and apparent, it actually made me respect her. In fact, her entire essence this morning reminded me of something strange, like I witnessed this once before a long time ago in a foreshadowing of some kind. In any such case, I didn't want her to worry. I would make sure Link came back to Ordon unharmed like her necklace.

I'll take care of him Ilia.

"Of course I will."

She looked at me gratefully.

"Thank you Miss Elga, and I wish you all the best. Be careful on your... your pumpkin delivery."

That was very kind of her, but I also caught the hint of discretion in her voice. I stared at her for a moment.

Yes... she definitely realizes there is more here than what I'm letting on.

Even so, I didn't bother to give any confirmations. The situation was already convoluted enough.

"You as well, and thank you."

Afterwards, I did a slight curtsy and finally left Ilia's company. I then started down the road towards the impasse leading to Link's home. About halfway, I turned and waved when I saw that Ilia was still watching me. Ilia waved back, but then finally headed back into her home and closed the door. I started for the impasse again, and while I walked, I closed my eyes and took in a deep breath, grateful the conversation went better than I expected. I even gained a few insights.

At least that was civil.

When I eventually entered the clearing to where Link's house resided, I saw that the hero was already waiting for me on his horse, the legendary mare Epona. She was a beauty with her strong stout legs and muscular body. Her golden brown hair was accented by her silver white mane. She was one of the most enchanting creatures I had ever laid eyes on. I remember when he brought her to the castle. Not even my royal stallions could compare to her.

She's stunning.

I marveled at the sight of Epona and continued with my approach. However, suddenly I halted when I saw that Master Rusl was waiting with the hero near the front of the horse. I was a little surprised at his appearance here this morning, and wasn't sure what to make of it. When Master Rusl made his presence known it was generally for a very good reason. I kept my distance for a moment to contemplate.

"What's he doing here?" I whispered to myself. "Dear Hylia, I certainly hope nothing has happened."

However, my private inquiry was short lived when Rusl caught sight of me. He immediately stopped chatting with the hero to approach me. He walked over, bowed, then removed his hat. I was grateful for his air of respect. It was nice to know one swordsman still appreciated his queen. I did a curtsy in return.

"Good morning Master Rusl," I greeted.

"Good morning your majesty."

I glanced over at Link, who dismounted his horse and came over to where Rusl and I were standing. Surprisingly, Link showed the same respect and bowed. I was slightly taken aback.

Will the wonders ever cease? First Ilia, now Link.

"Good morning Master Link," I said to him politely.

"Good morning my lady," he said with a brief nod, but then carefully avoided my eyes.

I was grateful he was at least attempting to be cordial, and a proper greeting was a start. We still had a long way to go, but I was more than willing to meet him halfway if he was too. I then turned my attention back to Rusl. I realized my presence here must have made him contemplate many unnecessary things regarding the safety of the kingdom. I did leave the poor man in the dark. Anyone in his position would have assumed the same thing. I immediately thought of Lydia and Sir Shad.

"I wish to apologize to you good sir for not alerting you to my presence here sooner. It was imperative that I maintained the utmost secrecy. I've only told a handful of people about my departure from the castle. With that being said, I want to thank you for your discretion in not giving my identity away yesterday."

Rusl completely understood.

"I figured you were here for a reason your majesty, then I saw how you were dressed and realized something else must have been amiss. Did you have to leave Hyrule because you were in some kind of danger?"

I shook my head.

"No, it's nothing like that. This is more of a personal mission, I needed to get away and dressing like a peasant was the only way to do it."

The soldier didn't looked convinced with my explanation.

"It's dangerous for you to be engaging in personal missions right now your majesty. And even though this is technically a time of peace, there are factions starting to cause trouble."

My ears perked when I heard that.

"Factions? What factions? Are you speaking of the brotherhood?"

Rusl shook his head and looked troubled.

"That I'm not sure, but derivations of it no doubt. I received some news from Lady Ashei relating to something like this when I last visited Snowpeak a week ago."

My interest piqued immediately when he mentioned Lady Ashei. Like Rusl, Lady Ashei was a former member of the resistance team during the reign of Zant. She, along with her husband Bastion, were also former members of the counter insurgency task force led by Link. The couple had a spy network that was unparalleled. To this day, I still had no idea how they were able to procure so much information through their complex network of contacts. They were both invaluable assets to the kingdom and good friends whom I trusted, but also missed dearly. I was informed to keep my distance per the request of Master Bastion due to some unsettled trouble surrounding him and his family. He never told me who, or what it was threatening him. But because of such, I hadn't seen or written the couple in over five years. I hoped they were alright. I sincerely wanted to catch up with them if I got the opportunity. Maybe at some point in this journey Link and I could visit them. The trouble was, I didn't know if that would be possible. No one procured information like Ashei and Bastion. No one.

"What news?" I asked finally.

Rusl hesitated and gestured for me to come more away from the opening of the impasse to the side of the mountain for a little more privacy. It was a sensible request, but then I understood it even more so when he suddenly handed me an old looking leather piece of material.

I stared at it perplexed for a moment.

"What's this?"

Rusl stared at the material himself unsettled.

"Well… I think it would be better if you just read it."

I pursed my lips together and stared at Rusl with growing concern. Curious as to what he meant, I unrolled the small canvass and read its contents. After reading it, it only added to my confusion instead of clarifying it.

What the…?

Link saw my expression and raised a brow.

"What does it say your majesty?"

I sighed and shook my head. The text was written in a derivation of ancient Hylian, a dialect almost no one spoke anymore. Only certain scholars and members of the royal family knew it. The message was obscure to say the least.

It said: "'The putting together of the insidious attributes will result in the Arbiter's kiss.'"

Even with my saying it out loud, it only added to the perplexity instead of clarifying it. What in the world did this mean? What was an 'Arbiter's Kiss'? What was truly going on? Hylia did inform me of something similar to this yesterday, but she provided no clarification on the matter either.

Interestingly enough, the first person who surprisingly added some insight to situation was Link.

"It's a riddle of some kind. The verbiage is too obscure to be taken literally."

I nodded.

"Yes, but to what?"

Neither of the men had an answer for me.

Rusl stared at me intently just then.

"We've received similar messages like this in the past my lady," he divulged. "I was hoping perhaps you could enlighten us. Do you have any idea what this could possibly mean?"

I was just as perplexed as they were. I started suggesting the obvious things first.

"It wouldn't be a stretch to think that the message is related to the Arbiter's Grounds in some way. But I have no idea what these attributes mean. They could be anything."

I unfortunately provided no solace for Rusl.

"That's what I feared. That message was found on the outskirts of the Gerudo Desert. The reason it is significant is because there is a faction of bandits calling themselves the Arbiter's Tribe. They have been pillaging and robbing caravans consistently for the last two weeks. They seem simply like a band of thugs, but after finding this ancient message, we fear they may be a cult of some kind. The problem is we don't have any idea who the 'Arbiter's kiss' is supposed to be."

His explanation left me unsettled.

"This is grave indeed. It's interesting that you mention this because my generals went out to investigate something of a similar nature. They too went to the Gerudo Desert to research something known as the Arbiter's Tribe."

The timing on all this was too perfect to be coincidental. It was no wonder Hylia instructed me to leave the castle when she did. She must have known all of this was happening in the interim. Instead of spectating from a spire, she probably wanted me to investigate what was going on the ground firsthand. The last queen to act in such a fashion was my grandmother, the Sage of Time. I had never investigated on the ground before. In this moment, it was a necessary education for me. There was no telling what else would turn up.

Link then added another surprising fact.

"There was also talk of these bandits in Dragon Roost," he divulged. "The prince himself had to hire me as an escort for his hunting party. He too made mention of an 'Arbiter' gang several times in passing."

I gazed at Link stunned at his disclosure.

Elbourne? He knows of this as well?

This situation was much bigger than I realized. The look on my face must have constituted that, because it prompted Rusl to want to take action.

"What would you have me do your majesty?" he asked immediately.

That was a loaded question because I needed more information first. I couldn't take proper action without knowing all the facts before I proceeded. However, I did want to give him standing orders.

"Keep a look out for these bandits," I instructed, "and I give you the authority to have them arrested on site. Try to get any information you can from them. Also too, if you come in contact with Lady Ashei or Master Bastion before I do, please inform them to keep their information confidential. I don't want anyone outside of those who already know to know what's going on, not even the military."

Rusl nodded, but then looked at me perplexed for a moment.

"Meet up with Ashei before you do your majesty? Do you plan on going to Snowpeak?"

I honestly didn't know, I was still playing this by ear.

"I'm not sure yet. I might, that's why I needed Link's help. Master Bastion would be helpful in this instance as well. He's always been valuable in these situations. Perhaps you can contact him for more information."

Rusl suddenly looked at me taken aback.

"My lady... why do you keep mentioning Master Bastion?"

I thought that to be a strange question.

"Why wouldn't I? He's an excellent proctor of intelligence."

Rusl paused for a moment to study me.

"Oh, I see," he stated when a realization hit him, "you don't know."

This was unexpected.

"I don't know what?"

The swordsman shook his head empathetically.

"It's obvious you haven't heard, but my lady Master Bastion is-"

However, Link immediately interceded.

"Rusl don't! You can't tell her that."

Both Rusl and I looked at Link surprised just then. However, the hero's expression didn't change and Rusl was about to protest.

"What do you mean 'I can't tell her'? Link-"

Link interrupted him once more.

"Not now Rusl! Not now! She cannot know where he is! She cannot!"

I continued to stare at Link stunned and suddenly a feeling of foreboding swelled within me. Even so, at the hero's beckoning the middle aged soldier suddenly clamped his mouth shut. This was telling. Rusl followed Link's order over mine. This was not boding well. I looked between the two men bewildered, not understanding what just happened. Why was Link so insistent about being so secretive about Bastion? That initial feeling of dread suddenly took root at the bottom of my stomach. I was not going to be okay with silence on this matter. I wanted to know what happened to Bastion.

I took a step forward.

"Master Link, I understand that Bastion is your dear friend, but he is also a dear friend of mine too. I'd like to know what happened to him if anything at all. I do not want to be in the dark about such information."

Link stared at me knowing the inquiries were coming, but stood his ground. He didn't answer right away.

"My lady..."

I wasn't going to be diverted.

It was only making my worry worse.

"What happened to him?"

The hero was hesitant again, but then finally answered me.

"He... he's in an undisclosed location. One I cannot and will not reveal to you. I'm sorry I made a promise to him."

My eyes widened, but I wasn't necessarily surprised at his reply. I understood the discretion. I understood the bond Link had with Bastion. They were like brothers. However, the hero had no idea how much of a personal significance Bastion's whereabouts meant to me. He was my brother. He wasn't a legal heir, but he was a Nohanseen. If anything happened to me he did have a right to the throne. This wasn't just some haphazard information for me. This was very important. However, I decided to leave the subject alone for now. I knew with how things were I wasn't going to get far. It was apparent Bastion swore Link to silence. But, now I was decidedly more worried about Ashei and Bastion.

Please be alright, just please be alright.

My concerns were increasing. I decided to change the subject.

"I see, very well, but thank you for what you could tell me. Let's hope Hylia looks out for them."

Link had a nondescript look on his face just then.

"Let's hope."

I was trying not to think the worse, but knew that was where my mind was going. In the mean time, I opened my satchel, took out a royal sigil and handed it to Rusl.

"This is the crest of the royal family," I changed the subject. "If any of the guards try to give you grief, show them this. You tell them you were appointed by the queen herself."

Rusl's eyes widened at the new commission, but he took the assignment without hesitation.

"Yes your majesty." He took the ring and gripped it tightly. "I will do all that you ask." Rusl bowed again. "Please be careful," he said to me, finalizing our conversation, "and remember to stay off the main roads if you can."

I nodded.

"Thank you, we will."

I glanced over at Link.

The hero nodded at his friend in return.

"Thank you Rusl."

Afterwards, Rusl bowed and headed off back towards the impasse entrance. However, he didn't go more than ten feet when he suddenly stopped and turned back around. He touched his utility bag and made a gesture with his hand as if he had an epiphany of some kind. He then came back towards us. I looked at him expectantly, ready for more information.

"I almost forgot." He opened his bag. "Ashei told me to give you this."

Afterwards, Rusl pulled out an old, green, weathered, leather bound book. It had a strange encryption on the front. But as soon as I saw it, the insignia made sense to me. My heart suddenly raced when I realized what I was looking at. My mouth even became agape in disbelief. I looked at Rusl completely astonished.

"This can't be!" I walked up and took the bound volume.

Link looked at me with a nondescript expression. He didn't understand my enthusiasm right away.

"What's so special about it?"

Rusl too was intrigued by my reaction.

"Yes my lady, you can't leave us in suspense."

I couldn't believe it. I immediately went to open the contents and ran my hand over the pages. The texts were all written in ancient Hylian.

"This is the Book of Mudora! It's one of the lost great treasures of the ancient world! There's said to be secrets within secrets written in here."

That piqued both their interests.

"Really?" Rusl asked.

I nodded.

Link spoke in reference to my enthusiasm.

"I remember you showing me a picture of this book some years back at the castle. You were intrigued with it even back then."

I nodded again, not really listening and hugged the book close to my chest.

"Dear Hylia, I can't believe it," I whispered to myself in pure shock. "This is the book of my ancestors."

It wasn't a small thing that this volume was found. There was another concordance text called The Secret Mysteries of All the Ages that made reference to this book, stating its near impossibility to find. The Book of Mudora was an ancient Hylian text that revealed all the secrets of alchemy, the lost arts, and the forbidden sciences. It was said to have been penned by Hylia herself and stored in trust to the guardians who were the only ones who could reveal its true knowledge. It also had a storied significance to several royal families, even the murderous ancient queen who was said to have used it for the blood letting of young maidens. It was rumored to have been lost forever on the other side of an ancient forest. Apparently, that rumor was untrue.

"How in the world did Ashei get her hands on this?" I couldn't help but ask. "I knew her network was good, but I didn't think it was that good."

Rusl grinned and decided to add some insight.

"Well to be completely honest Ashei didn't mention it coming from anyone of her usual contacts," he disclosed. "Rather, she said a strange golden haired woman gave it to her several weeks ago. She said the woman told her that it was imperative that this book make it to the hands of the Queen of Hyrule."

I looked at Rusl dumbstruck for a moment.

"A golden haired woman?"

Rusl shrugged.

"Ashei gave no name with the information, just a description. She told me that she seemed to have come out of nowhere to give it to her. However, with that description it could be anybody. Ordon alone has a great deal of golden haired maiden."

My ears perked when I heard that, and he did have a point, but I was under a different impression.

Could that have been Hylia herself who gave this book to Ashei? And if so, how long has she known about these troubling events to give me this text at this time? Why does she want me to have the Book of Mudora now? What is the deeper aspect of these things taking place?

It was a great deal to ponder. I was just going to have to wait and see. However, when the goddess appeared to me again there was no doubt I was going to question her about it. In the mean time, Link and I needed to depart. I also did not want to keep Rusl from his duties any longer. He had work to do. I clutched the book he entrusted to me tighter.

"Thank you from the bottom of my heart Rusl," I said to him sincerely and put the text in my satchel. "You have no idea how helpful you've been."

Rusl was grateful in hearing that and bowed once more.

"I would do anything to protect Hyrule your majesty. You only have to summon me for service. With that, I bid you good day and wish you godspeed."

I nodded at his sincere words. I wish all men were as loyal as Rusl.

"Likewise good sir. Godspeed."

After bowing once more, the swordsman left the hero's and my company. That was quite the bullock of information. Link and I were going to need to leave shortly soon too, but we needed to finish prepping first for the trip. Link checked the saddle on his horse and mounted the mare with his supplies, while I waited to see how he was going to organize my things. I also noticed he had three medium sized pumpkins dangling from the back end of Epona to serve as a decoy just in case any of the other villagers happened to see us before we left. It was a clever idea, but my mind was elsewhere in the present. I sighed when my thoughts lingered on the idea of a possible resurgence.

This is the last thing the kingdom needs right now. Everyone was just starting to feel a sense of normalcy and now this.

I groaned to myself and looked to the ground. Link then looked over at me thoughtfully, while he strapped his satchel onto the saddle.

"Are you alright?"

No.

"Yes."

He could tell by my tone that I wasn't telling the truth, and for a moment I forgot we even had our own issues to deal with. To be honest, with all the other pressing matters going on I hadn't given them much thought. It just went to show that there were some situations in the world that were much bigger than the insignificant squabbles of two feuding people. Everything seemed to be coming to a head at once. I was still reeling from what Rusl told me.

Link took note of the look on my face and gave me a quick once over.

"Are you sure?"

I nodded again, not wanting to delve too deeply on the subject in the present.

"I'm fine, let's just hurry."

Link then shrugged.

"Okay, suit yourself."

I appreciated his attempts at trying to be considerate, but for now my personal welfare was the last thing I was concerned with. I needed to know who or what this cult was trying to take root in Hyrule. I needed to find out if Bastion was alright. I needed to make sure I kept in contact with my stewards at the castle. I promised Lydia I'd write to her. I needed to speak with Hylia about the coincidental uprising of these events and her uncanny timing of having me leave the castle to find Link. I needed to know what was truly going on. I needed so many things and didn't know where to start.

What is going on?

Abruptly interrupting my thought process, Link held out his hand towards me. I looked at him mildly puzzled for a moment, shifting my eyes from his hand to his face because of it.

"What?"

He raised an eyebrow at me.

"Your bag, I was going to tie it to Epona... unless you want to hold onto it."

I snapped myself back to reality just then.

"Oh," I quickly handed him my satchel from over my shoulder, "I'm sorry, thank you."

Link grabbed my things and then tied them to his horse along with everything else, but then gave me an offhanded glance when he saw that I was still holding onto the basket.

"What's in there?"

I looked down at the gift, almost forgetting I had it. Rusl's information almost made me oblivious to it.

"Oh, this isn't mine. Your friend Ilia made some pastries for us and gave them to me for the trip."

Link immediately perked when he heard that.

"Ilia made those?"

I nodded.

"Yes, she did."

A small grin then spread across his handsome face.

"Are there Hylian butter cookies in there?" he asked with an eagerness I didn't know he could possess.

I looked at him surprised. His whole disposition completely changed when he found out I was holding pastries baked by his unconventional friend. I couldn't help but smile at the enthusiasm in his voice.

He really does love those cookies.

"Yes, there are," I replied, "and I was told to monitor how much you eat of them. She said if it were up to you, you would devour the entire basket."

I added a few colorful words here and there, but he got the gist of it. Link looked at me taken aback for a moment, but then he smiled.

"She told you that?"

I nodded.

"Yes, she did."

He then shook his head and snickered a little bit.

"That woman," he said more to himself than to me. "That does sound like something she would say."

I grinned and stared at him for a moment with how happy he looked when he smiled. He had such a beautiful smile, and his perfect white teeth only made it more radiant.

I hope to see more of those. I believe at the end of this Link will have a reason to truly smile once more.

The hero finished loading up Epona, brushed down her shiny mane with the stroke of his hand, then stood back. Afterwards, he gestured for me to mount his horse.

"The horse is ready for you my lady."

Admittedly, I hid my surprise in how he presented his steed to me, grateful for his attempts at being chivalrous. It was nice to know some of Rusl's mannerisms were rubbing off on Link. I nodded and mounted the horse with no problems.

"Thank you good sir."

Interestingly however, after I mounted Link stayed grounded and took hold of the reigns.

I looked at him puzzled.

"You're going to walk? You're not going to ride with me?"

Link tugged a little on the reigns and we started on our way.

"It's either walk, or tire Epona out quicker, and you're the queen. There's no way I would allow you to walk."

Once again, it was hard for me to conceive of Link speaking to me this way in the present. Considering our abrasive reintroduction yesterday, I wasn't expecting such a turnaround. However, if this was a promise of things to come, I was most grateful. Link also was a man of action, and when duty called he knew how to put his personal feelings aside, and do the right thing. He had done so many times before in the past, and I believed he would do so again in the future. He was just that kind of man.

A moment of civility? Incredible.

There was an extended moment of silence between us as we walked along the trail. Many of the sights were familiarized for me from the day before, but I still couldn't get over how beautiful this densely wooded area was, even at these predawn hours of the morning. Ordon was a lovely place and I could see why the citizens didn't want anything to disturb it.

It seems like the perfect simple life. I wish I could have some of that for myself.

We continued to travel in silence. However, I sensed Link had something he wanted to tell me. I assessed this because several times he turned and looked like he was going to say something, but wouldn't or didn't for whatever reason. This went on for the next few moments, until finally it seemed like he made up his mind and decided to just come out with it. He even stopped walking and halted Epona to get his thoughts together.

I waited for him to speak.

"What's the matter?"

He didn't answer right away.

"I… I want to apologize for the way I acted towards you last night. Colin was right for scolding me in defense of your honor. A Queen of Hyrule should be treated with the utmost respect."

I stared at him surprised. I was not expecting an apology.

"You don't have to apologize good sir. I... I understood why you were angry."

Link shook his head.

"That's no excuse. You're still the queen and I still acted like a fool."

I couldn't believe the difference one night could make.

"Well, I again apologize too for my rude behavior yesterday. As such, I humbly accept your apology, and am glad we can be civil towards each other now and going forward. Let's try our very best, agreed?"

Link nodded.

"Yes indeed your majesty. Agreed."

The hero had no idea how relieved his words made me feel. I was so glad he spoke to me on this. This was encouraging because it showed me that even after everything, we could still get a fresh start. Civility sounded like music to my ears.

Thank the goddess.

As we continued our trek, Link spoke up again.

"Besides… you're doing me a great service," he divulged all of a sudden. "I've been waiting for this opportunity for a long time."

I stared at him puzzled for a moment, but soon afterwards I realized exactly what he meant. He was talking about his opportunity to see Midna again. I suppose I should have been happy in hearing him say that, but admittedly, my happiness waned a little when I ascertained that his apology wasn't just a personal hurdle for us to overcome. I sighed indifferently at his words, both understanding why he said them, and at the same time wishing he hadn't uttered them. I wasn't trying to be petty, but not everything had to be about Midna. There was some history between just us. Why couldn't that be a motivating factor? Why couldn't our relationship have a litmus test on its own? Why was everything about the twilight queen? However, I realized I was being ridiculous. I couldn't expect grand realizations overnight. On the one hand, I was glad we were finally starting to get along. On the other hand, I knew his primary motivation was to reunite with Midna. In any such case, I had no reason to expect differently. Link was in love with her. I should have been grateful we were starting to get along.

Link broke the brief silence again.

"So your majesty, where are we headed to? Where is the road taking us?"

I was so caught up in my own feelings, I completely forgot to tell him where we were supposed to go.

"You need to speak to Ordona, Faron, and Lanayru…" Hylia's voice echoed through my head.

I quickly snapped back to reality.

"We're going to Ordona's Spring. We need to speak to the guardian there."

Link turned to look at me.

"Ordona's Spring?"

I nodded.

"Yes, is it close by?"

He nodded.

"Hmph, actually it's closer than you think. It's right down the road."

I was surprised at this minor revelation. It was no wonder I stood so long yesterday to admire that pristine looking alcove. It was where a guardian rested.

"I didn't realize it was so close."

Link nodded and grinned.

"Most people don't. It is a little surprising that guardian lives so close to the village, but I think that's one of the reasons why our remote area has been so safe. I consider it a blessing from the goddess."

I appreciated the way he put that and wanted him to continue, but after his utterance he got quiet. I was glad in how we were starting and wanted to keep the good vibrations going between us. This seemed like a good time to mention Ilia and what she asked of me. It was apparent she was someone he cared for and she for him. I wanted to remind him of the promise I made to her.

"Your friend Ilia is a lovely person," I said all of a sudden.

He didn't answer right away, but he nodded.

"She is," he said simply, then added, "and I apologize for her behavior yesterday. She isn't normally like that."

I nodded.

"I know. She told me herself this morning when she wished me well."

I saw from his periphery him grin.

"I'm glad. I would hate for last night to be the only impression you got of her."

I understood his discretion.

"Of course."

We then got silent for an instant before I decided to keep going.

"It was very thoughtful of her to make us some provisions for the road. They will make the perfect snacks for when we want a quick rest."

Link's smiled sadly.

"She's always been like that. She's always thinking of others before herself… even if it hurts her to do so."

That was very insightful, and I thought, very touching on his part to acknowledge that about Ilia. Friends should say warm, deep things about each other. It's what makes the friendship blossom and grow. In some ways, their union reminded me of Elbourne and myself. It was easy just to focus on the dragon prince's faults, but he also had a very generous and kind side when he was just with me. He rarely showed it to other people, with the exception of his mother, but I appreciated Elbourne for who he was. I expected Link felt the same way about Ilia, and I was hoping he would go on speaking about her, but he stopped himself. I sensed he thought he said too much, and maybe for him he did. That happened a great deal in casual conversations. Sometimes we had a tendency of saying more than we initially afforded, and if Link didn't want to say anything any further, I wasn't going to pry. His relationship with Ilia was his own, and certainly none of my business. Afterwards, we were silent again, however, I decided to shift the conversation to more neutral ground. I didn't want him thinking I was gauging him on a personal level only. I wanted him to know he could be comfortable around me.

I cleared my throat just then.

"I was hoping to meet her father Mayor Bo," I changed the subject, "is he out of town?"

Link didn't answer right away. It actually took him a few moments before he finally answered me.

"No, no, he's... he's not out of town."

I was slightly taken aback by his change in tone. The connotation alone should have told me to halt the conversation, but I was already taken in by the undercurrent of sadness in his voice. My instincts were telling me to stop, but I wanted to go on anyway. My curiosity was pushing me.

"Oh, I remember him from when he came to court. He was the original representative of your people before Master Rusl took over the task. He was such an agreeable fellow."

I hoped to engage Link further, but it seemed I had the opposite effect. The hero got silent again and seemed to be getting uncomfortable as the conversation continued. It was then he decided to be more upfront.

"My lady... Mayor Bo is dead."

I froze for a moment, almost thinking I heard that wrong. I certainly hoped so.

"I beg your pardon?"

Link took in a deep sigh and avoided looking at me.

"He's dead," he repeated.

My eyes widened immediately and I held in a gasp by covering my mouth. I couldn't believe it. I swallowed hard and tried to get my bearings together.

Great Hylia.

I didn't know what to say or where to begin. It was no wonder Ilia was so fixated on Link, the poor girl was all alone. I probably seemed so insensitive to bring this up now, but I had no idea.

"How long ago did he die?"

It was clear Link did not want to talk about this any longer, but he answered my question anyway.

"Over five years ago."

When I heard that I stiffened a little bit.

Five years ago… that was the same time Link was…

I shook my head, finding the memory too horrible.

"I…" I did not know what to say, "I'm so sorry."

Link didn't reply right away. He seemed to be contemplating the memory of it all. I completely understood where that type of reflection came from. I only had to remember the death of my own parents to understand it.

"Yeah... me too."

There was that undercurrent of melancholy again, and I didn't know what to do or say to console him. The timing of Mayor Bo's death was horribly in line with another hard time in Link's life... a time I knew all too well. I couldn't imagine having to deal with what he went through, and then afterwards find out a dear loved one died. I closed my eyes and said a silent prayer for Link and the other Ordonians.

Please Farore give the villagers of Ordon the strength they need to carry on.

When I opened my eyes, the empathy I felt gave way to tears. I immediately wiped them away and pulled myself together, hoping Ilia would have the strength to keep enduring. She was much stronger than I gave her credit for, and I hoped that she would remain that way for her own sanity's sake. Death was a byproduct of life and two cycles were symbiotic to each other. I suddenly felt terrible for all the cruel things I thought about her the day before. I was in no position to judge her or make a designation of her mental state. I wished I could take back all of my negative thoughts. It was then I decided to remain silent for the rest of the ride to Ordona's Spring. There was nothing else I could say to make such a horrible sadness go away. I thought this would be a more conservative subject... but so much for a neutral conversation. Now it seemed things were worse.

Even so, when we finally got to the alcove, I dismounted and looked around the beautiful lagoon now before us. The spring in the center was the focal point, with its blue waters flowing gently down a double tiered rock formation acting as a cistern. The bushes and foliage that surrounded the edge were dark evergreen in color and were accented by golden bugs flying to and fro, lighting up the canopy with a vague, hinted iridescence. The sound of the seeping water made for a relaxing, calming feel. Simply put, it looked like a tiny paradise.

"This is magnificent," I whispered, standing at the spring's edge.

I felt as though if I spoke any louder I would dispel the natural milieu here. Link on the other hand was off to the side situating Epona at the perimeter's edge. The lovely mare was neighing in protest a few times, but she soon settled down when Link placed his hand behind her left ear and comforted her. It was like a soothing parental touch. He really was in tune with his horse. Link... the horse whisperer. Soon after handling his steed, Link made sure his boots were secure at the ankles, then afterwards waded out into the water. I looked at him puzzled at first, but he then turned and gestured for me to follow after him.

"Come on."

My perplexity deepened.

Was this how the guardian needed to be summoned? I bit my lower lip, not completely understanding his actions, but realized I obviously needed to follow suit. I waded into the water after him, immediately feeling the discomfort of my now sodden dress and shoes. I hoped Link knew what he was doing in this regard. I hated the thought of catching a cold unnecessarily. That seemed like such a silly thing to ponder considering the circumstances, but it was the truth. We stood stationary for a few minutes, and nothing happened. We stayed still a little longer, and still nothing happened. After a few more minutes, still nothing was happening, and I was beginning to question if this was the proper way to summon the guardian at all.

Where is Ordona?

I looked over at Link.

"Are you sure this is the right area?"

He nodded, looking completely confident.

"Trust me, this is it. I could never forget where I encountered the first guardian."

The conviction in his voice should have quelled my cynicism, but it didn't immediately. However, soon after I realized I doubted unnecessarily. A moment later, the natural light in the alcove suddenly dimmed, and the trees overhead seemed to press more together. My satchel situated on Epona for some odd reason suddenly started flashing in a series of different colors, with the primary light spectra differentiating between red and blue. I looked over at it in surprise and didn't know what to make of it initially. It was an occurrence that popped up out of nowhere, but then I deduced it may have had some bearings due to the Book of Mudora. It was the only thing I could think of in the moment that made sense, but that still didn't explain why it was happening.

What's going on?

Soon the spring began to bubble and froth forth. In the sky above it, a circular spectra sequence of light rotated like a spherical rotunda, until the geometrical progression differentiated in all directions. The light soon took on a shape of an animal resembling a moose, with elongated circular horns that met at the center of its head. The colors iridized between golden yellow, light golden brown, a soft light green, and flashes of pink. It was one of the most magnificent sights I ever bore witness to.

"Incredible," I whispered.

I glanced over at Link who didn't seem surprised at all, but his face still held a bit of wonder. How could it not? Yes, he met Ordana before, but a guardian was a guardian. They inspired such reverence. I looked on in awe as the guardian began to speak.

"Greetings Queen of Destiny and Hero of Twilight," Ordona began. "The blessing of the goddess is bestowed upon the both of you greatly, one only has to look at your life course to know it. What brings the both of you to my spring?"

The guardian's magnificence was almost too much to behold. I stood there dumbfounded for a moment. I've had my dealings with the protectors of Hyrule on a subconscious level, but this magnitude of closeness was something completely awe inspiring to me. I was so taken in, I had to shake my head of my slight hypnosis in order to speak. I had to remember my objective.

"We've come for your guidance, I was told to see you by a friend. She informed me you had some information for me."

Ordona's celestial light flashed brilliantly amongst the trees canopying the alcove. However, he didn't answer right away.

"Indeed I do, but first I must know why you seek such guidance."

I took a couple steps forward and clasped my hands together in a form of supplication.

"We… no not 'we'…" I said to myself, and then looked back up at Ordona, "I came here with the intentions of wanting to make things right with the Hero of Twilight. He is a great man who has offered himself willingly in the service of Hyrule. There is a woman he greatly desires to see and I need your help finding her."

From the corner of my eye, I saw Link look over at me stunned at my candid words. He shouldn't have been surprised. It was about time I was more forthcoming. If I had been so in the past perhaps he wouldn't have suffered so much.

"Your majesty…"

I kept my eyes on the guardian.

"He has sacrificed his peace of mind and nearly his life to protect my kingdom," I continued to Ordona, "and though we've had our differences in the past, that does not negate such service. It is imperative that he makes his way back to his... to his beloved."

There was an intermittent silence that fell over all three of us after my utterance. I was looking at Ordana, who in turn had its attention on Link, who in turn was now staring at me. It remained that way for the next few seconds before the triad of stares was broken with Ordona focusing its eyes back on me. I couldn't be sure or not, but it seemed the guardian was hesitant to go on.

"And who is this 'beloved?'" Ordona asked.

It was in that moment I paused, knowing silence gave me solace. Afterwards, I closed my eyes and took in a deep sigh. I was fully aware of what saying this name would mean at the expense of myself. I was relinquishing my feelings in lieu of doing what was right. However honestly, I was completely fine doing so. I was done with being a silly fool and wanted to do this for the hero. I needed to do this for the hero, and not just for his sake, for my sake as well. I then opened my eyes and smiled. My voice then had a strong conviction.

"Queen Midna of the Twilight Realm."

I found the appellate surprisingly easy to say, even though initially it was hard to do.

Ordona paused for a moment, and turned its attention back to Link.

"Is this true great hero?"

Link paused for a moment himself, but had no addendum to my words.

"Yes your grace. It's true."

I then glanced the hero's way.

"Bravo," I whispered to him. "You should always make your feelings known for the one you love. No matter what."

The hero seemed off kilter by my sincerity. I was certain he wasn't expecting anything like this behavior-wise from me. Well, I was glad to surprise him. I had a very different mindset on this matter. I wasn't that weak woman anymore. I wasn't that bitter fool anymore. I had grown and I wanted him to know that. And though I was still in love with him, I wasn't going to allow anything to circumvent my mission. I wanted to do right by Link and Midna.

It would be wrong for me to impose my feelings and take this moment away from him. Link has a right to love whatever woman he wants.

Ordona was quiet for a moment.

"You have served Hyrule well. There is indeed a full recompense which is due to you."

Link turned his attention back to the guardian and looked grateful in hearing that.

"Thank you for acknowledging my service your grace."

Ordona's iridescence shined throughout the canopy.

"Love is a powerful motivating force. However, I must caution you, what you seek may unbind the terrors of the netherworld."

The guardian's sudden austere warning came out of nowhere. Link and I both looked at Ordona astonished.

Unbid the terrors of the netherworld? What in the world is it talking about?

I had no idea what to make of that. Link too didn't say anything immediately.

"My lord?" the hero asked.

Ordana did not mince words.

"Questing for selfish reasons always has a consequence good hero."

I was surprised to hear those words from the guardian when this quest was anything but selfish. How could such an utterance be justified when I just told the guardian why I was doing this? Furthermore, Link's service to Hyrule verified to me that he was more than worthy of having something just for himself. So, why the hostility? What was Ordana meaning by any of this? I glanced over at Link. I could see that his confusion quickly give way to frustration. No one wanted to hear such things when they were searching for someone they cared for.

"Questing for selfish reasons?" Link repeated. "What could you possibly mean by that? All I want is the chance to see a person I love. I don't want to 'unbind the terrors of the netherworld!'"

I understood his frustration, but knew he had to quell his anger. I reached over and placed my hand on his shoulder to calm him down. This wasn't going to get us anywhere. We had to remember the guardians saw things on a much broader scale than we did. This was very untoward. But, if there was a warning to be had, we needed to heed it.

"Link… please."

He looked away.

I turned my attention back to Ordona.

"Could you please explain what you mean my lord?"

Ordona remained quiet for a moment.

"The demarcation between light and darkness is fickle. The attributes of the insidious one lies within you. If you choose this path, you must be aware of this."

This warning was becoming more obtuse as the guardian kept speaking. What was Ordana suggesting by saying these so called attributes were 'within you'? Was it talking about me or Link? The both of us? Or Hylian-kind as a whole? I wanted a clarification on the matter.

"I don't understand."

"Neither do I," Link was quick to add upset, "why can't you just tell us what you mean?"

Ordona appeared stoic.

"It is not for me to tell. I was imparted with the task to forewarn you. That is all."

Now that was a concern.

Forewarn? But why? What are we about to do by going through with this?

My optimism regarding this mission was slowly starting to wane.

"Was that all you were imparted to tell us?" I was starting to feel helpless with the current set of circumstances. "Was there nothing else you were told to divulge?"

For some reason Ordona's brilliance shined exponentially after I asked that. It was so great, Link and I both had to cover our eyes.

"Ah!" I cried out from the harsh light.

The guardian didn't seem to care about our discomfort.

"If this venture is what you truly seek, you must overcome the rule of three."

Rule of three?

"What do you mean?"

The hero was going to add a bit of insight.

"It means trials."

My eyes inadvertently narrowed at the thought.

"Trials..."

The luminescence dimmed a little.

"This is true great hero," Ordona continued. "However, since the one asking the favor is the Queen of Destiny, your trials will be of wisdom. If the request had come from you, Hero of Twilight, the trials would have been of courage."

I was surprised at this revelation.

Trials of wisdom, I had an epiphany just then, that's what ancestral mother meant by my 'area of expertise'.

"What do these trials consist of? How are we to overcome them?"

Ordana was less forthcoming than that.

"That I cannot reveal, all I can do is give you a clue. There are three clues in all. One given by each light guardian you will take audience with. It is then up to you to figure out what each clue means."

Link groaned in minor frustration.

"Great."

I was getting an uneasy feeling about all this too.

Why is the timing on everything so horribly perfect? The news about the 'Arbiter's kiss,' Hylia telling me to go on this journey, Link's and my re-acquaintance, the Book of Mudora… all of it seems terribly perfect. Dear goddesses, what in the world is going on?

I didn't have time to think about all that in the here and now. I would have to contemplate all that later.

"Please tell me the first clue."

Ordona dimmed some of its luminescence to make the area more tolerable to see. Link and I were finally able to bring our hands down, but the sudden shift made an evocative thought go through my head.

I wonder if that increase of light was an emotion exhibited. If so, was it one of anger or concern?

My contemplation would have normally taken my thought process further, but at the moment I didn't have time to concern myself with it. The guardian was about to reveal the clue. I waited in anticipation, until finally it said:

"The first clue is this: 'faded pictures of celestial bodies are reflected on fractured sand.'"

Link gave the guardian an offhanded look, not understanding the full disclosure.

"What?"

I felt the same way, but then realized what it was.

"It's a riddle, the clue is being given in the method of a riddle."

That still didn't clear anything up for the hero.

"I understand that, but a riddle to what?"

I shook my head.

"I truthfully don't know, and that's what we're going to have to find out." I then turned my attention back to Ordona. "Could you tell us any-"

"I'm afraid I can help you no longer," Ordona interrupted. "Seek out my brethren Faron and Lanayru for the other clues."

I looked at the guardian surprised.

Was that anger?

"But I-"

"Farewell Queen of Destiny and Hero of Twilight," Ordona interrupted once more. "May we meet once again at the crossroads of life."

Without waiting for an objection from Link or me, Ordona's countenance suddenly transfigured into a circular geometrical shape. The light bubble floated high into the canopy, then imploded on itself, after which it dispersed across the sky. With the guardian now gone, Link and I stood in the spring dumbfounded, trying to figure out what exactly just occurred.

'Faded pictures of celestial bodies are reflected on fractured sand?' What could that possibly mean?

I glanced over at the hero and saw that he had the same expression as I.

"Are you alright?" I finally broke the silence.

He was reluctant at first, but then he finally nodded.

"Faded pictures…" he trailed, with his mind elsewhere, apparently just as perplexed as I. "Faded pictures... faded pictures... faded pictures... what in the world are faded pictures?"

I couldn't have asked it better myself, but then I looked down at our soaked hems and thought to get out of the spring first. We wouldn't be able to get anything done while having to think in such an uncomfortable state.

"Let's get out of here," I suggested, heading back to Epona.

Link nodded again, still thinking. However, before I could walk away he suddenly took hold of my hand to stop me. Surprised, I turned to look at him, and he was staring at me with open suspicion.

What's this all about?

I gave him a quick once over.

"What's the matter?"

He gave me a brief once over of his own before focusing his intense blue eyes back on my face.

"I need for you to set the record straight with me, why did you really come here?"

I looked at him stunned. He wasn't making sense.

"I don't understand your question. I already told you why I came. Did you not hear what I asked of Ordana?"

He didn't reply to that and his eyes narrowed slightly.

"I heard what you said to Ordona very carefully and you told me you came of your own free will. But then you told the guardian that someone sent you here. Which is true? Were you sent or did you come freely?"

I had to keep my features in check because he caught me off guard with how keen he was to the details. I suppose he would have to be considering the adventurer and warrior he was. However, I let my tongue slip and he took note of that. I had to be mindful not to be so reckless in the future. I pulled my hand from his grip and calmed my now racing heart.

"As I told you before, I came of my own freewill."

I could tell he didn't believe me. Link took a small step forward.

"Your majesty... is the country in some kind of danger you're not telling me about? Is something going on in the city? Why the double talk?"

I shook my head.

"No, I swear, I came here for one reason and one reason only, and that's to help you find Midna."

Link was a little taken aback by the sincerity of my words, but I didn't want him thinking I was lying about that. So I came up to him and took hold of his hand again. I squeezed it affectionately.

"I promise you, we will find her."

His eyes widened slightly and for some reason he cut his line of sight to my mouth the way he used to in the past. I drew back a little and felt my cheeks blush involuntarily. I hated that, but I kept my composure. I tried to temper the unwarranted tension by smiling. A smile could help any situation, or so I thought. I stepped back and cleared my throat. Afterwards, I patted his shoulder in an odd gesture of goodwill and stood erect. I eagerly wanted to change the subject.

"I think I have an idea," I pointed to Epona, "I think I know what might help in solving that riddle."

Without waiting for him, I hurried over to the mare, went up to my satchel, and immediately unhitched the latch. I had a feeling the Book of Mudora was intended for this very purpose.

"There must be a reference, or citation of some kind in here that may help us," I pulled out the book and turning the pages, searching for some kind of information related to the light guardians and riddles. "It's a shot in the dark, but it's worth a try."

While I was reading, Link came up behind me and glanced over my shoulder to see what I was looking at. He was very stealth in his approach, because I didn't notice him right away. It was only when he spoke I took note of his presence.

"Do you think it has some methodology in how to decipher these clues? I remember I used a reference work some years ago that helped me decode some information related to some ancient stones I was searching for."

He made a good point.

"That might be the case, however-" I stopped when I turned to face him.

I was startled with how close he was and I realized he was only standing inches from me. I instantly slammed the book shut and took a couple of steps back. I stumbled and nearly fell over some grass, when Link came up quickly, caught me around my waist, and pulled me close to him so I wouldn't fall. His strong arms held me tight. He looked at me concerned.

"Are you okay?"

I nodded quickly.

"I'm fine," I raised my hands to his chest to push myself away, "please let me go."

He was reluctant to at first.

"Are you sure your ankle is alright? That looked like it could have been very painful. You tripped over your own foot."

I drew back more.

"My ankle is fine."

He shook his head.

"Your majesty-"

"Please let me go! Really, I'm fine."

Link looked at me surprised by the glint of nervousness in my voice and immediately released me. I took several more steps back and fixed my hair to make sure it wasn't out of place. My cheeks were burning and I knew I looked ridiculous. All he had to do was look at me and I'd turn red. I stood there silently, wishing I hadn't overreacted in such a silly way to his help.

"Uh... I'm sorry… I didn't mean to startle you," Link apologized, breaking the awkward silence. He was a little startled himself at what just happened. "I just wanted to make sure you were okay."

I didn't reply to him right away.

I felt like such a fool.

"That's-that's alright," I stammered, then pursed my lips together. "I should have been more careful, but thank you for your concern."

There was a silence that followed afterwards that I wish hadn't. It only made the situation more uncomfortable. I didn't understand why I had these silly pubescent reactions when it came to Link. It was just that way I suppose. However, I had to remember to keep my dignity intact. I was still a queen after all. My cheeks could blush, but I didn't have to let them get the best of me. Even still, I wish I had more control over it. I wanted to end this awkward moment, and finally glanced up to catch him still staring at me. He had a nondescript expression on his face that I found slightly unnerving.

I took in a deep breath.

"What?"

Link shook his head, and for some odd reason, he grinned at me.

"Nothing."

I cleared my throat and turned from looking at him.

"Then could you please stop staring at me as though I were a caged animal?"

That smile never left his face.

"Was I staring?"

I rolled my eyes and looked away.

"You know very well you were. I overreacted, I realize that. Can we get beyond this?"

Link nodded.

"Of course."

I clutched the book I was holding close to my chest and avoided his eyes. It was then I made my way back to Epona and mounted her after I placed the book back in the bag and secured it. I hooded myself and readied to leave.

"Shall we get going?" I tried to forget the silly moment that just past.

Link was quiet for a moment, still studying me with that intense blue gaze.

"Yes."

I nodded.

"Good."

We left Ordona's Spring, and headed through the woodlands and across the bridge to the forest of Faron. While we traveled, I kept myself busy by reading the Book of Mudora. There was a wealth of information in this book. It covered just about any and everything when it came to alchemy and metaphysics. I even found a section on ancient riddles, and the use of arcane texts. I was absorbed in what I was reading, but found the only disadvantage to my current plight was the bumpy ride. We continued on our trek for another hour or so, when out of nowhere, Link stopped Epona's advance, and pulled out his bow and arrow. I stopped reading and looked at him immediately in concern.

"What is it? What's wrong?"

Link got low and then took a few steps forward.

"I think I see tonight's dinner."

That was unexpected.

"What?"

He didn't bother to elaborate.

"I'll be right back." He then went off ahead into the forest.

I sighed looking after him, and then dismounted Epona. I went a few feet into the forest myself and sat down on a dead tree stump to give my legs a stretch. I was still searching for clues to the first riddle, when suddenly a bright light flashed across the sky. I nearly dropped the book, and put my hands up to my face to protect my eyes. When the light faded, I looked up in surprise to find Hylia.

I was so happy to see her.

"Ancestral mother!"

Hylia was initially smiling, but then winced when I said that title. She put her hands on her hips like she was about to scold me.

"I told you how I felt about that name!" she said in a rather sassy manner. "If you keep that up I'm going to tell your pretty boy eye candy you have the major hots for him."

I just looked at her.

"Ances-" I had to catch myself. "Hylia! Don't you dare! Why do you insist on causing trouble? You know I'm doing this so he can be reunited-"

"Yeah, yeah, so he can united with his 'beloved'. I know the spiel. Anyway, how's everything going so far?"

I sighed and shook my head at her novel personality.

I don't think I'll ever win with her.

"Pretty good I guess," I said, getting up from the stump, "you won't believe all the things that have happened!"

Hylia grinned at my excitement.

"Oh really? Why don't you fill me in?"

I told her everything from this morning, including the meeting with Ordona, and Link's suspicions about her sending me. But, at the end of the conversation, she didn't seem at all surprised by what we discussed.

"You could at least pretend you were interested," I said, crossing my arms over my chest.

Hylia laughed at me.

"I'm sorry," she realized she was being a little insensitive, "but you forget, I see everything that you do already."

I raised an eyebrow and looked at her presumptuously.

"Then why ask me?"

She studied my face for a moment and shrugged.

"I see your point. Next time, I'll be more enthusiastic."

I rolled my eyes at her, but then grinned at her attempt.

"I suppose," I said, and then added, "so what brings you here now?"

Hylia went and sat down on the stump I was just sitting on.

"Well, I have some news."

I looked at her expectantly.

"News?"

Hylia scuttled her feet back and forth for a moment and rested her back up against a tree.

"How do I say this?" Hylia said more to herself than to me.

I looked at her perplexed.

What is she talking about?

"Is everything alright?"

Hylia sighed and didn't answer my question. However, she knew I was going to be thrown for a loop by what she was going to say next.

"My dear you're going to reassemble the Mirror of Twilight," Hylia divulged finally.

I looked at her stunned, truly stunned by her admission.

"What?" I felt like what she said made no sense at all.

Hylia pushed herself off the tree and dusted off her gown.

"You're going to reassemble the Mirror of Twilight."

I was dumbfounded when I heard her say it again. I didn't see how that was remotely possible, considering I saw Midna destroy the glass myself. Besides that, the other implications from this news were going to be far more poignant considering what they meant, especially to Link.

"That's impossible… how?"

Hylia sighed, and was quiet for a long moment before she spoke.

"There were two mirrors made long ago, but since there was a rift between the King of the Twili and the King of Hyrule, one of the mirrors were cracked and broken into four pieces. One of the pieces is in the bowels of Arbiter's Grounds. The other three pieces have been hidden in three distinct locations throughout Hyrule. You need to find these three shards and reassemble the mirror."

I looked at Hylia unnerved at this unexpected news. My concern wasn't for the fact that we were going to get back to the Twilight Realm. I already knew that to be true. I was worried of what the news of a second mirror was going to mean for Link.

So it was true. The fabled second mirror does exists. Then I was…

I closed my eyes at the revelation.

"Why didn't you tell me before now?"

Hylia was quiet, and then looked away from me.

"I had to make sure you really wanted to do this."

I didn't understand what she meant by that. Why would that make a difference to anything? I wanted some reassurance that what I was doing was right. This was going to be earth shifting news to Link when he found out. His dislike for me may even deepen more once this was disclosed to him.

"Should I go on with this? Am I making a mistake?"

Hylia just looked at me.

"That's why I asked you if you were sure you wanted to do this Midna thing too. What does your gut tell you?"

I looked away from her.

Link is going to hate me.

However, I couldn't think about just myself in all this. If I was wrong, then I was wrong. I wasn't going to hide behind a banner of deceit any longer. Link deserved to know the truth. I was just going to have to deal with the consequences.

"I think... I think this is the right thing to do," I tried to be as honest as possible.

Hylia was quiet for a long time. I sensed she wanted to say more, but for whatever reason she declined to discuss the matter any further. In fact, she tried to make light of it.

"You see... then there you go kid," was all she said.

I looked at her slightly taken aback.

There you go kid? That's all she has to say?

"I-"

Hylia suddenly jumped up and took a few steps back.

"Look, I have to go, pretty boy is on his way back. Just remember what I told you, and try not to stress."

I stood there stunned. I was starting to get upset in how she was popping in and out of my life only to confuse me more. I didn't want her to leave like this when she knew there was so much I needed to discuss with her. She pulled this same stunt last time.

"You can't just leave." I was feeling a little desperate. "I still have questions."

Hylia smiled, which I found inappropriate.

"Don't worry." She then floated up into the treetops before I could stop her. "You'll be fine."

I looked up at her anxiuosly, hoping she would change her mind. However, my hope was only wishful thinking when a moment later, another light flashed across the evergreens, and when it faded, Hylia was gone. I sighed when I was alone once more.

Why is she always so mysterious with me? Some of what she says is so confusing.

I shook my head of my thought process and turned when I heard a rustling in the bushes. Afterwards, Link reappeared. He was holding a dead rabbit and was looking at me puzzled. I returned his perplexity.

"What's the matter?" I asked of his gaze.

He narrowed his eyes at me concerned.

"Were you talking to yourself?"

I raised my eyebrows and I cleared my throat nervously, not anticipating he wouldn't hear Hylia's voice, but grateful he couldn't at the same time. I hadn't realized he was so close by.

"Uh… yes." I saw no point in completely fibbing.

He continued to stare at me with his inquisitive eyes.

"Can I ask why?"

I didn't have a straight answer for that. I couldn't very well say it was because I was speaking to the goddess Hylia.

"Uh… it helps me to think. In fact, because of such reflection now I know our true objective. It was written in the Book of Mudora."

Hylia help me for such a lie.

Link gave me another offhanded stare.

"You had to talk to yourself to figure that out?"

I forced a smile.

"Consider it a royal family... thing."

Now I just sounded ridiculous.

Really Zelda? Really?

Link narrowed his eyes at me for a moment, but then returned my grin. I guess he found a little humor in my words.

"A royal family thing, huh? There's some truth to that because I caught you doing that at the castle from time to time in the past."

Link surprised me with the recollection. I stroked a strand of hair out of my eye and just nodded. I still remembered I needed to brace myself for what I was going to tell him next. He wasn't going to be smiling in a moment. I just hoped this wouldn't be worse than what I was anticipating.

Hylia give me strength.

"Yes, well..." I then changed the subject on a whim. "Anyway -uh- our new objective is this: we're going to rebuild the Mirror of Twilight."

When Link heard me say that, he almost did a double take.

"I beg your pardon?"

I heard the inflection already.

"We're... we're going to rebuild the Mirror of Twilight."

The hero then stiffened like he was dumbstruck. Astonishment suddenly enveloped his features, and he stared at me in complete disbelief. When the realization came to him, he said nothing, he just stared at me. I knew the implications of that stare. I stared back for as long as I could before I had to look away. I felt terrible, and guilt overtook me immediately. I understood why he was so shocked. I wasn't a fool. The hero continued to stay quiet and my throat tightened. I felt an innate sense of fear in us regressing. We hadn't even gotten very far, but we were about to hit a major hurdle from this.

I wanted to temper the dialogue.

"Master Link..." I pleaded, "please..."

He ignored my begging and finally spoke up.

"That's impossible. That's impossible. How... how in Hylia's dear name are we suppose to rebuild the Mirror of Twilight? It's been destroyed."

I closed my eyes and braced myself. I knew this was going to take my own particular kind of courage. However, I couldn't let my pride get in the way in doing what was right.

"It's not impossible," I divulged, "and yes, we're going to rebuild it. The reason for that is... is because there were two mirrors built-"

"Two?" he interjected briefly.

I nodded and kept going.

"Yes two," I repeated. "However, the second mirror has been displaced. The shards are hidden throughout Hyrule. There's one shard in the Arbiter's Grounds and there are three more scattered throughout the land that we need to find. That is what we're going to do. That is how we're going to rebuild it."

Link was looking at me completely astonished.

"There were two?" he said again.

He could not get beyond that. I knew he wouldn't. Why should he? I looked away and nodded.

"Yes."

His breathing increased.

"You mean to tell me you knew of a second mirror all this time? You lied to me?"

I shook my head and prayed not to get emotional.

"I didn't know. I had no idea."

He took a step towards me.

"Then how the hell do you know about this now? What's changed?"

The anger in his voice was like a current.

I stepped back.

"I...I-I read it in the Book of Mudora," I fibbed.

I didn't know what else to do. He would think I was crazy if I told him the Goddess of Hyrule told me. Link stared me in the eyes and I could see the pain he was trying to conceal. I could see him reliving the past right in front of me. Unfortunately, tears filled my eyes and I had to look away. I felt too much guilt.

How could I have been sure? I thought of the past. I didn't know, I'm still not sure, but… that's why I'm here now. That's why I'm trying to make things right.

"Master Link please," I begged with a broken voice. "Let me do this. Let me try to make things right."

He kept his eyes fixed on me, but he was keeping a deeply entrenched anger at bay. I saw this side of him only once before and that was when he sought vengeance on some traitors to the throne a few years back. I couldn't lie, he was scary when he tapped into that anger.

"I will search the world over to help you find her Master Link. You deserve to be with the woman you love."

A tear ran down my cheek that I quickly wiped away. I wasn't going to walk away from this. I had no right to any sympathy when this anger was warranted. It was justified. But, Link didn't reply either. Instead, he cut his gaze and turned from looking at me.

I don't know what else to do.

I took a step forward, but I didn't reach out for him.

"Forgive me. Please forgive me."

He groaned audibly at my words and turned to look at me once more. There was nothing but disgust in his features. I didn't step back, but he cut his gaze again.

"I'm going to go collect some fire wood, don't leave this spot," he muttered, not addressing anything I uttered. Then, without waiting for a reply from me, he hurried off into the brush.

I watched after him, grateful that didn't go over worse than I thought. Link seemed in a hurry to turn and leave my company. I think he just wanted to be alone for a little while. I couldn't say I blamed him. It was like I dropped a bomb on him. However, I was grateful a potentially disastrous situation was avoided.

Thank Hylia, I'll think about that later.

"Faron Spring," I whispered, keeping the next goal in mind, "we're going tomorrow to Faron Spring."

---

Thank you for reading.