How Zelda Got Her Groove Back Chapter 12, a legend of zelda fanfic

Inspiration:"Cold Mountain," with Nicole Kidman and Jude Law, Skyward Sword: the ancient fruit, red and blue light waves, fakie maneuvers in snowboarding, November 11 from "Darker Than Black", and the "Tree of Life" album by Audiomachine for the 2020 reedit.

All Original Shout Outs: The Pilot, Michelle, Lorlian, ShawdowageImpa, and The Taco king.

New Shout Outs: ZeldaBrowser and The Cynic.

Recommended Readings: "Realization," by Protosspianist98.

Author Note: Reupload 3/4/2020. Reedited 4/9/2020.

Word Count: 21,431

Chapter 12

The next day, the predawn hours of the morning, Link

After Zelda went to bed, I woke up later in the night to stand watch. This had been my routine for the past few weeks. I made my rounds about the room, looking for trap doors and other concealed locations, but found nothing. I made sure not to disturb Zelda in the process. I looked out the one window stationed at the fore of the bed and scanned the surroundings outside. From this vantage point, Zora's Domain looked like the perpetual paradise it was known to be. Considering how vertical this city was, it would be difficult for that ninja to make his way up here. But, I underestimated him before. There was no sign of him at this time. However, that didn't prevent him from tracking the queen and me with virtual invisibility. I was still bothered by how Shiek was able to pursue us without my ever knowing it. I glanced back over at Zelda and saw her resting in a deep slumber. She was safe for now, but that didn't mean that would always be the case. The more we continued with this journey, the more my concerns were beginning to grow.

With the coast currently clear, I went back over to the chair I was resting on and sat down. I watched the queen, hoping she was making her decisions based on the greater good of the country. But, I had my doubts. I was worried Zelda was allowing this quest to cloud her better judgement. I understood that she wanted to make the past right, but there were all these evidential markers showing that Hyrule's future could be wronged. Why was she being so dismissive suddenly? Also, she made it clear that she wanted to know what was at the end of this 'puzzle'. Puzzle? Was that what this was now? This was more than just a puzzle. Did she think this was a game? Did she think this was some elaborate testing of wits? I didn't want to undermine her motives, but she seemed to be changing. Her goals seemed to be shifting. Every time I looked up, her nose was stuck in that Book of Mudora. She was consumed by that text. She read it at every free moment. There were a couple of times I had to pry her away from it. I was concerned she was no longer looking at the bigger picture. This was more than just us.

Zelda...

Then, there was the case of that mysterious trinket suddenly appearing on her wrist. Out of nowhere, she was wearing a bit a of jewelry she hadn't showcased before. It was beautiful. It looked other worldly. And, I had no idea where she had gotten it from. I prided myself on never letting anything out of my sight. Two weeks ago that bracelet was nowhere to be seen. Then, out of the blue, she puts a new gem on display. It wasn't like her to suddenly break habit. It could have been nothing. Or, it could have been something simple like she kept it in her satchel all this time and she just now wanted to wear it. Did I think the latter was the case? No. Was that all I had to go by? Unfortunately, yes. Of course, it didn't have to be anything at all. But, something in my gut was telling me otherwise. Something was telling me that bracelet wasn't just a trinket. I was hoping she would speak on it herself, but she never did. I was hoping she would trust me enough to do so by now, but maybe we weren't there yet. Or, maybe that wasn't the case either. Maybe there was no need to. Maybe it was just a piece of jewelry. I had to digress. However, the feeling didn't last long.

Maybe the gale boomerang was just a boomerang.

My sarcasm was apparent.

Nevertheless, I didn't want to turn into the servant always doubting their queen either. I didn't want to develop cynicism over something so small. Zelda did put herself out at great risk to me. I did believe she wanted to help me. I did believe she had my best interest at heart. And, with the way she reminisced about the past, there was a part of me that deduced she wanted more herself, but wouldn't outwardly convey so. Zelda was being cautious and I couldn't blame her. She spent the totality of our past relationship keeping what she felt for me inside. She never told me she loved me, even though I knew she did. I believed she was having the same dilemma now. Zelda talked about the past so fondly. She spoke of our friendship with so much genuineness. How could she not want more? The inflection in her voice said it all. It must have been tough for her to make the decisions she was making. To pretend she wasn't affected by choosing what was best for me over what was best for her. To be honest, she might have been deferring what might be what's best for both of us. Wait a minute... what was I saying? Was I saying that I wanted to start over? That I wanted another chance for her to believe in me? I couldn't lie, when she recollected, I recollected right with her. There were some memories that were so special that no one could take from us. But then, what about Midna?

Midna.

What an extraordinary woman. I would never forget her. But then I had to ask myself: were my memories of her more nostalgic than realistic? Was I living in a dream? There was a time my love for her was unwavering. There was nothing anyone could do to stop me from trying to find her. I even defied the queen in the past to prove my loyalty to her memory. But... but was that the case now? Was I more in love with the memory than the person? I remember falling hard for Midna. When I saw her vulnerable side, when she was right at death's door, I couldn't have tried to save another person's life more. She was hanging on with every fiber in her being. That was the longest trek of our journey. At the time, it felt like the longest trek of my life. Later, I remember seeing who she truly was and thinking she was the most beautiful, exotic creature in the world. I wanted her to invite me into her kingdom. I wanted her to tell me she loved me and that she wanted a life with this 'light dweller'. But, it never happened. Maybe I was romanticizing the past because I wanted so badly to be with her. Maybe my memories were deceiving the reality of the moment. However, now... now things were different. There was someone else to consider. It was possible that if a person was broken by another, to also be healed by another. I stared at Zelda and thought again about what she did for me recently.

Where would I be right now without Nayru's Love? Would I still be a broken man? Would I still be fractured?

Thinking about all this made me consider the true weight of Zelda's destiny. The burden of the Triforce was only something another Triforce bearer could understand. Zelda had the responsibility of her kingdom and her people. She had access to a power that only her bloodline could tap into. It was the same with me. I had access to a power only the hero chosen by Farore could be granted. I saw the pressure get to her in the past. I saw the weighty decisions she had to face alone. I remember her confiding in me one night and telling me that whenever she doubted herself, she prayed to Nayru and asked for guidance from her Triforce. I never looked at it in quite the same way, but I tried that one day when I was looking to solve a problem. I prayed to Farore and suddenly my Triforce shined within me. I was surprised by this occurrence and told Zelda about it when I got the chance. In that same instance, she took my hands, closed her eyes, and suddenly she started glowing with blue light right in front of me... a gift from Nayru. She told me to reach in deep with her and suddenly I glowed with a green light too... a gift from Farore. It was the deepest connection I ever had with another person. That happened six years ago and I never forgot it.

Never.

I was surprised Zelda didn't recollect on that. Or maybe she did and didn't discuss it because it was something too personal. Something that garnered too much pain. That was a very substantial moment between us. It took our relationship to a much different place. And, the falling out we had after it didn't allay for us to talk about it right now. We weren't perfect. We had our past transgressions like everyone else. But, we couldn't live in the past forever. I wanted to move on, and, I had to be honest, a part of me wanted to move on with... Zelda. I would never forget the very first time I offered her my friendship. She seemed so surprised and even suspicious of my wanting it at the time. I never blamed her for her initial distrust. There were a lot of vultures surrounding her in her court. One noble in particular was trying to use her to gain access to the Sacred Realm. His name was Vincent Rue Morgue and he was a snake among snakes. Even so, she allowed herself to trust me. It was quite a controversial thing at the time, a peasant being an adviser to the queen. No one in the nobility believed a queen and a peasant could be such confidantes. However, they were proven wrong. The nobles didn't understand where our connection came from. Frankly, I didn't care what anyone thought of us back then. And, it was comforting to know Zelda came to my defense when the stakes got too high. She was always there for me, even though, I wasn't always quite there for her. It was in part due to my arrogance at the time.

I would be the first to admit that I got involved in some pretty sordid things for the sake of duty back then. I was certain Zelda would be willing to admit the same thing. The problem was from the people's stand point, those were concessions that could not be sympathized with. The conversation with the man in Castle Town proved that. He assumed the worst of Zelda without considering all the facts. There was a great deal the people did not understand about the goings on of the post Ganondorf political era. There was no black and white strategy. There were grey politics everywhere. I was aware the queen was used to such talk, but it didn't make it any less unfair. The people had no idea how mixed up the past really was. No idea at all. It was a double edged sword. It was the same with me. I wasn't immune to the disdain from many of the aristocrats. To this day, many of them still despised me. However, I didn't let myself live in fear of them. If they wanted me, they knew where to find me. Even so, I never fooled myself. I knew it was dangerous to live constantly with provocation in mind. But, the nobles didn't control me and never would.

Ever.

That contemplation brought me back to reality. Here and now, what needed to be done? What did I truly want? I wasn't so sure finding this mirror and seeing the woman on the other side of it was what I wanted anymore. To be honest, back when I initially started looking for Midna, it was mandated by me more as an expression of defiance than finding her for love. Now that the years have rolled on, I wasn't so sure. Those feelings for the twilight queen were there, but they have admittedly lessened.

I leaned back in the chair and sighed.

"You can't have both of them," I said.

What a greedy thought to desire the love of two women. I stared over at Zelda for a long moment before having to look away when an inappropriate thought suddenly came into my head. Admittedly, that was happening a lot lately, inappropriate thoughts and desires regarding the queen. I couldn't help it. She was stunning. I've always thought she was the most beautiful woman in Hyrule. My stance hadn't changed. She was walking, living, breathing perfection. There wasn't a woman in Hyrule who could match her. But, I needed to remember what our relationship was now. Even though, I was starting to want our relationship to be something more. Traveling with her has made me have an innate sense of responsibility for her. Last night I let myself slip up and I almost kissed her again, forgetting for a moment I was hired help. I couldn't lie, I wanted to. So badly. If she hadn't stopped me, I probably would have considered going beyond just a kiss. I was contemplating a great deal more. This situation was definitely becoming a lot more complicated.

I closed my eyes and took in another deep breath. I needed some clarity of thought, but there was none to be had. I realized then it was time for me to get my mind on something else. Afterwards, I pulled the sheets back and decided to get up and go for a walk. However, after I got cleaned up, dressed, and was putting on my boots, I noticed when I glanced over to check on Zelda again, her eyes were open and she was staring at me. How long had she been doing that? I was a little taken aback at how quiet she was without my being able to notice it. Her hair was sprawled out against the mattress and she was clutching the pillow she was laying on tightly. She looked amazing just staring at me with those beautiful dark blue eyes. Admittedly, she was going to make it hard for me to stand up in a second. Very hard. I think she knew biting her pouty lips like that was probably the sexiest thing in the world.

Come on Zelda, this just isn't fair.

She gave me a long once over before she spoke.

"Where are you going?"

Good question.

I didn't answer right away.

"Um... I was going to check the perimeter to see if everything was alright."

That brooding gaze never faltered.

"Oh, do you mind if I come with you?"

I wasn't expecting her to ask me that.

I found it a little odd.

"Why would you want to? You'll be safer in here."

She was quiet for a moment.

"I suppose you're right."

Zelda then sat up, stretched, and let her arms rest above her head for a moment. I realized suddenly I had another dilemma. She wasn't aware of this apparently, but the top of her white gown was very translucent. I could see right through it. She wasn't wearing a bustier to strap her large bosom back. I told myself several times not to look, but honestly that was proving difficult. She had a beautiful silhouette. And when she stood up, it became even more difficult. I couldn't just look away. Well, I could, but what the hell was I supposed to do? I was Hylian.

Dear Farore.

She walked over to where I was sitting.

"I was just thinking you were looking for another reason to swim before we left. If that was the case, I was going to join you regardless of your reservations."

I grinned at her and kept my eyes fixed at her pretty face.

"No, I promise."

She nodded in return and her smile faded a little bit. I wasn't going to lie, she looked like an angel with her bangs falling in her face the way they were. Even with that ghastly white gown on, it didn't hide her perfect hourglass shape. The blue hued light made sure of that. Her eyes searched my face for a second, and admittedly I wasn't looking at her visage anymore. My gaze was much lower. She caught me staring at her breasts again and I quickly looked away. I know. I was wrong. She was probably going to chastise me for my brazen glance. She even placed her hands on her hips to preempt it.

"Now really Link-"

It was then I stood up to tell her the truth.

"You should probably put a robe on. I can see right through your gown."

Her eyes widened at the disclosure. She immediately crossed her arms over her chest.

"Oh." She took a step back. "I wasn't aware. Sorry, thank you for letting me know."

I just nodded.

"Yes..." I then changed the subject. "Why don't you get ready while I'm out and we'll head to wherever next."

Her embarrassment was apparent.

"That sounds like a good idea. We're heading to Snowpeak."

I nodded again.

"Snowpeak. Sounds good. It might take us a couple days from here, but that shouldn't be an issue. I'll be back within the hour."

Zelda was avoiding my eyes now.

"Alright."

I nodded once more, then turned and couldn't get out of there fast enough. Outside the door, the two Zoras standing watch looked startled. It prompted them to assume something was wrong.

"Did her majesty need something Master Link?" one of the guards asked. "Is she alright?"

I looked between both Zoras.

"Her majesty is fine. Just make sure she isn't disturbed until I return."

Both guards nodded.

"Yes sir," they replied in unison.

Afterwards, I walked past them and headed for the falls. The perimeter was fine as I had no desire to check it. At the precipice, I stopped and took in a deep breath while overlooking the entire domain. My thoughts were betraying me again. My goddess, she was so beautiful... so beautiful.

"That's over Link," I whispered to myself. "That's over."

However, the problem was I wasn't sure I wanted it to be.

~SSS~

Zelda

As promised, Link returned an hour later. We gathered our things, readied ourselves, and began the two day trek to Snowpeak. The elements were harsh and unforgiving as we headed north. A day past when we had to find shelter in a remote sanctuary. The abandoned building was cold and drafty, which didn't garner us much sleep. The following day, we headed out again and traveled for twelve hours. It was evening when we finally arrived at the base of the mountain. There was no way we were going to be able to continue to the Snowpeak Mansion tonight. The snow storm was making it impossible to see. Fortunately, Link informed me we were close to Ashei's home, so we headed there, hoping she would put us up for the night. Ashei's residence was at the bottom of the mountain. She was the most familiar with this territory, and she probably had some useful information to share with us. She was a procurer of secrets after all. Also, I was concerned about her husband Bastion's whereabouts. Since, according to Link, he was in a different undisclosed location. I wasn't sure why Link wouldn't divulge that information to me, but I didn't bother making it a bigger issue. I would know when I needed to know.

When we reached Ashei's home, Link knocked on the front door. There was a pause, then a lot of scuttling about inside before the fleeter feet came near the door. A moment later, a small square shaped aperture opened at the abridging. I understood why Ashei wasn't quick to answer. She was a mother with small children living in a very remote area. Who would be foolhardy to travel in conditions such as these? Only Link and me.

Suddenly, Ashei's voice hollered out.

"Who are you and what do you want?"

She certainly didn't mince words.

It was then Link got a little closer and replied, "There are many ships that sail into the sunset…"

On the other side there was a slight pause.

"…because the sunset beckons the goddess's call," she finished.

Link then stepped back as the tumblers to the locks sounded. When the door opened, on the other side was the raven haired beauty Ashei. She looked incredible with her big brown eyes and perfect physique. She didn't look like a mother of three small children at all.

"Link!" she didn't hesitate to run up into his arms and give him a big hug. "You bloody recluse! How the hell have you been? It's about time you came and visited again. I thought you were dead!"

Link laughed and hugged her back.

"Not yet," he joked morbidly. "Hylia hasn't finished with me in this life."

Ashei giggled and hugged him tight.

"I'm so glad to see you."

I smiled at Ashei's reaction from underneath my hood. I really enjoyed seeing people's unadulterated feelings for each other. I appreciated how close Link was to Ashei, because it only solidified to me how close he was to Bastion.

"By the way, congratulations," Ashei said.

Link pulled back and looked at her puzzled for a moment.

"Congratulations for what?"

She gave him an obvious look, then nodded towards me.

"I heard you got married. Is this the lucky girl?"

I stared at her stunned from underneath my hood.

That rumor reached all the way up here? Ashei's network is good.

The hero was surprised himself with how much traction that fib gained. Dr. Borville, or the patient he was treating, apparently planned to capitalize on the rumor for all it was worth. He quickly went to refute the gossip and grinned at her with a bit of caution.

"You know better than to listen to the gossip mavens. If I had gotten married you would have been the first to know. Besides, watch your mouth, we're in the presence of royalty."

I looked over at Link and frowned just then.

Really Link?

I was enjoying watching the friendly banter without Ashei having to worry about acting a certain way in my presence. The thought of royalty made most people feel uneasy.

Ashei looked at Link perplexed.

"Royalty?"

Link nodded, not letting his grin fade.

Ashei scoffed.

"Come on you're pulling my leg, yeah? You're just doing this to spite me, yeah?"

He shook his head.

"I'm afraid not."

She then turned her attention to me. She looked at me surprised.

"Your majesty? Is that really you?"

I simply nodded, not wanting to be introduced in such a way, but seeing that Link already befuddled the situation, I really had no choice. I attempted to make her feel more at ease.

"Good evening Miss Ashei."

Ashei's eyes widened even more. She immediately went down on one knee and bowed.

"Oh shit!" she whispered to herself.

Link chuckled at her curse, while he helped me dismount from Epona. When I was stationary enough in the snow, I bowed myself. Ashei looked at me shocked regarding my gesture.

If she's going to show me that kind of respect, the least I can do is return it.

"Are you well my Lady Ashei? It's been so long."

She looked at me completely flummoxed and merely nodded.

"Forgive my rude language, and yes I've been well your majesty. But please, call me just Ashei. The 'my lady' title isn't necessary."

I smiled, wanting her to feel the same comfort level.

"Then you must call me Zelda. Not 'your majesty,' at least when we're in amiable company."

Ashei was still looking at me stunned, then glanced over at Link, who only shrugged.

"It's what she wants. She asked that of me as well."

Ashei gazed back at me and reluctantly nodded.

"Alright, uh… Zelda, yeah?"

I grinned at her reluctance and looked past her to her cozy looking home.

"May we come in? It's quite chilly out here."

Ashei immediately stepped out of the way.

"Yes, of course! Where are my manners?"

Ashei gestured for us to come inside. However, Link took hold of Epona's reigns and backed up for a moment.

"I'm going to put her in the stable in the back Ashei. I'll be right back."

Ashei nodded and Link then walked out into the unforgiving snow. I looked after him making sure he was okay, but then afterwards turned back to Ashei and walked past her into her house. The modest cottage was two stories, with well insulated fixtures to protect it from the snow and wind. There was a large stone hearth in the center of the room against the back wall, with two chairs nestled comfortably about it. The upstairs housed three bedrooms, and an area for washing. The house was very warm and inviting. It felt like a home.

This is lovely, much more comfy than a large castle.

I took off my hood and was momentarily taken aback suddenly at the sight of Ashei's three children playing on the floor. They were three little brunettes, all with raven black hair, two boys and a girl. The two handsome boys looked just like Ashei, but the little girl, who looked about three or four, looked exactly like Bastion. She was his spitting image. It took everything in me not to tear up. These were Bastion's children. His legacy. My... my family. When I walked up, they all looked at me with wide eyed expressions. I smiled at the sight of them. Children were such wonderful gifts.

They're all so beautiful. Ashei and Bastion certainly stayed busy in these last seven years, haven't they?

"Hello there," I said to all of them.

The youngest boy and girl hid behind their older brother when I addressed them. It was the most adorable gesture ever.

"Hello," the oldest one said to me with a wave and a smile.

I chuckled at the other two's instinctive shyness.

"You'll have to forgive my children," Ashei walked up next to me. "They don't see very many visitors considering where we live. I'm making it a point to travel to Castle Town once a week to get them more socially adaptable."

I shook my head at the explanation.

"That's alright." I knelt down and reached out my hand for the oldest one. "It's good that they're cautious of strangers."

The little boy looked at my hand shyly and then my face. Ashei then knelt down next to me.

"It's alright, Miss Zelda's not going to hurt you. She's a very nice lady."

The other two children poked their heads out from behind their brother's back and looked at me. The oldest boy approached slowly, leaving his brother and sister behind, but then hurried to the confines of his mother's arms. I giggled at him when he tricked me into thinking he was coming my way and tickled his stomach playfully for the transgression.

"Aww, you don't want to give me a hug?" I teased. "Now that's not very nice."

The little boy smiled and shook his head no.

"You're too pretty for a hug."

I raised a brow and grinned.

Well, that's a first.

I put on a sad face and pretended to be upset.

"That's not very nice of you." I exaggeratedly crossed my arms over my chest. "Now my feelings are hurt!"

The other two children were watching my interaction with their older brother and immediately intervened.

"I'll hug you!" the little girl said excitedly all of a sudden.

I looked at her surprised.

"Really?" I then opened my arms to her. "Well, let's have at it then!"

The little girl hurried to jump into my arms, and Ashei laughed when I held her little daughter tightly. I caressed her shiny black hair and closed my eyes. I couldn't feel more at ease.

Bastion's daughter...

"I didn't know you liked children uh… Zelda." Ashei still felt awkward calling me by my first name.

I cradled her child and rocked her slowly.

"I love children." I held the little girl close. "They make you realize how precious life is."

Ashei looked at me surprised, but then grinned.

"That is true," Ashei stroked her older boy's hair.

The middle boy was starting to feel left out. He put his hands on his hips.

"Hey, I want a hug too!" he demanded all of a sudden.

I looked at him surprised, but then opened my arms and gestured for him to come to me as well. The little boy quickly ran up, and rested his head at my bosom next to his sister.

That's what I thought. They are just born with a need to be at the breast… even when they grow up, I remembered Link's wayward gaze from before.

I hugged him tight as well. However, a few moments later, the door to the cottage opened back up and Link came inside. The three children immediately jumped in excitement at the sound and looked to see who it was.

"Uncle Link!" the children all screamed in unison and quickly abandoned Ashei and me for his company.

What in the world?

Link immediately knelt down, picked them all up and started laughing. "Hey! What's going on guys?" he said to all of them and hugged them tight. "You giving your mother a hard time as usual?"

The little girl looked at Link indignantly.

"No!" she said in a rather sassy manner. "We've been good."

"Yeah," the middle child chimed in, "we haven't broken anything in three days!"

That made me laugh.

Three days?

Link shook his head. "I guess that's good news," he rubbed the child's head, and in effect messed up his hair.

I watched in admiration. I had to admit, it was quite the sight to see the Hero of Twilight in such an nontraditional role. The hyper masculinity of his title often suggested something else of him.

He's going to make a wonderful father someday.

Ashei must have noticed the slightly disappointed look on my face at my abandonment and chuckled at me.

"It can't be helped really." Ashei shook her head. "As you can see they even left me, their mother, for Link."

I saw her point.

"That's true."

I grinned at the sight of Link, but then instinctively looked around again. I really wanted to know where Bastion was. I knew if he were present he would be right here with us. I didn't want to be a nuisance, but I decided to inquire Ashei of Bastion's whereabouts since Link was now distracted by the children. I was aware the hero thought it best I did not know, but I couldn't just be left in the dark. I couldn't believe Bastion would just up and leave his wife and children without so much as a word. That wasn't the man I knew. That wasn't the man he was, even if his life was in danger. However, I was aware I needed to approach this in a delicate way. I didn't want her thinking I was prying. I decided to approach it on neutral grounds.

"Is Bastion out collecting some wears right now?"

I kept my voice low and my eyes on Link playing with the children. However, Ashei looked at me surprised by the question.

"I'm sorry?"

I guess that wasn't subtle enough. That probably came off a bit brazen.

"Forgive me," I apologized. "That was rude of me."

Ashei then looked at me perplexed. She didn't say anything for a moment.

"Zelda... are you not aware of what happened to my husband?"

My ears perked just then. I was slightly taken aback at how forthcoming she was being.

"I'm... I'm afraid not."

She looked away for a moment as her pretty features dimmed slightly with sadness.

"Bastion… Bastion died a few years ago," her voice was quiet and restrained, "right after my little Aura was born."

I almost thought I didn't hear her right. I was completely thrown for a loop by the news.

"What?" I gasped in a whisper.

Ashei pursed her lips together.

"Yes," she whispered back.

My throat tightened almost instantaneously.

"Dead?" I whispered again.

Ashei took in a deep breath and closed her eyes. She nodded, not wanting to utter what she said again. I turned away myself and had to fight back an onset of tears wanting to come on. I knew I couldn't do that. I knew I couldn't cry. It would only draw up too many questions. Still, I was in complete and total shock.

Bastion's dead...

I glanced over at Link who was still playing with the children, and suddenly understood why he said what he said in Ordon to Rusl. However, the hero seemed to also know the news would have been devastating for me. How could he be that perceptive unless... he knew? Did he know? Did he truly know everything about Bastion? They were best friends. I looked back over at Ashei and she seemed to have her bearings together, though her expression was now solemn. There was no way I would have brought up the subject if I had known her circumstances.

"I'm so sorry." I didn't want the play pattern with the hero and her children disturbed. "I had no idea."

I felt like my condolences rang hollow. Ashei looked to the ground again, then back up and sighed.

"So am I, but it's gotten easier to talk about over the years."

I felt terrible for her.

Life... can be so cruel, so cruel.

I wanted to remind her how amazing she was for being able to persevere.

"You're a great woman Ashei, and if you feel our presence here is too much of an imposition, we can leave."

She then turned to look at me and grinned.

"Thank you for your kind words, but you're not leaving. You and Link's presence are always welcome in my home. Bastion would want you both here."

I attempted to smile at her words.

"Thank you, that's quite a compliment coming from you."

Ashei and I continued to watch Link play with her children. I wished I hadn't brought up such a somber subject, but thankfully it was about to get segued into something a bit more salacious.

"Uncle Link, is the pretty lady a new girl you're courting?" the oldest boy blurted out all of a sudden.

The question caught everyone off guard.

We paused.

New? How many has he brought up here?

I smirked.

"Uh…" Link glanced over at me.

The little girl then looked at Link confused.

"I thought you were courting Miss Ilia uncle Link. When you come to visit from time to time you'll bring her with you once in awhile."

My smirk widened to a smile and I looked at Link knowingly at the revelation.

Miss Ilia, huh? So... my first thought was right about them, Link you sly dog.

Ashei suddenly slapped her hand to her forehead and closed her eyes, embarrassed at her children's behavior.

"These kids…"

Link suddenly looked extremely uncomfortable.

"Um… well…"

I needed to diffuse this. 'Uncle' Link was a man of many hats it seemed.

"I'm just uncle Link's friend." I wanted to make things easier for him.

Link met my eyes briefly before looking away. The three children all turned to look at me. They were silent for a moment.

"Okay." The little girl nonchalantly shrugged.

Ashei, sensing the subtle tension in the room, immediately went to gather her children so they could play in amongst themselves once more.

"Alright you guys," Ashei bundled her two youngest children under both her arms, while the oldest slid down Link's leg to the floor, "time to let the adults talk."

Ashei set her children down on a wolfos skinned rug in front of the hearth. I glanced over at Link, who suddenly wouldn't look at me. What got into him all of a sudden? I grinned at his discomfiture. A little truth from the mouth of babes rendered the hero temporarily speechless. Afterwards, Ashei came back over to us and gestured for us to sit down at the table in the small kitchen. I took the invitation with no hesitations, grateful for the chance to rest my feet. The walk here was especially tiring. I knew Link had to be out of it, but just wasn't admitting it.

Thank Hylia.

Ashei went to her cabinetry and gathered three cups along with a pig skin flask. She held up the flask to Link and I.

"Would either of you like some ancient fruit juice?"

Link shook his head with no qualms and I followed suit, never having tasted it. I've heard rumors about its effects, but I didn't know if they were true.

Ashei grinned at our reluctance.

"Are the two of you afraid of a little truth serum, yeah? Afraid you might say something you shouldn't, yeah?"

I grunted softly.

Is that what it does?

Link looked over at Ashei and smiled.

"You know me all too well Ashei," he joked, but there was a hint of truth to it. "I stay away from that stuff. It's worse than alcohol."

I gave Link a thoughtful look.

We've all got secrets, even altruistic heroes. I wonder what you're hiding under that handsome veneer.

I was curious about it, but still declined. Truth serum would be important at another time, just not now.

"I'm afraid my secrets are going to have to stick with me."

She shrugged at our declination and poured herself a glass.

"More for me then." She finally sat down after she got herself settled.

I admired her easy going spirit. I was sure that was why Bastion fell in love with her. She was as far away from histrionics as a person could get. We all needed someone to keep us grounded.

"So, besides my beautiful and beguiled children, what can I do for the two of you?" She looked between the both of us.

I glanced over at Link who was looking down at the table. Still unwilling to look in my direction.

What is this all about? Why has his attitude changed so drastically? Who cares if the children blurted out his relationship with Ilia? It was apparent to me anyway.

Well, I wasn't going to waste Ashei's time.

"I wanted to ask you a few questions."

She nodded.

"Okay."

She gave me her undivided attention.

"Is there any new news from any of your contacts?" I asked.

Ashei took a drink before she answered.

"Nothing serious, but there are some rumors about some strange events taking place at the Arbiter's Grounds."

I looked at Ashei concerned just then. Shad was telling me something similar a few weeks prior. Had the situation gotten more dire?

"The Arbiters Grounds?"

At hearing that, Link finally snapped out of his trance and joined the conversation. Now wasn't the time for sloth of the mind.

"What news?" he asked.

She leaned in and lowered her voice.

"There's been some strange energy sightings from within the catacombs. My scouts say it's nothing serious as of now, but the catacombs have been dormant for the past seven years, ever since Link took out the monster Stallord. There could be the slight possibility that Stallord is reviving itself."

I was a bit befuddled. Her scouts didn't think that was serious? I didn't want to alert her to anything.

Or, it could be something else entirely different. I had a growing sense of foreboding.

Link pressed on.

"When did this all begin?"

Ashei took another drink.

"According to my contacts, a few weeks ago."

That was about the same time we started collecting the shards. Could the shards be causing these sudden uptakes in energy manifestations? Link sat back in his chair, completely engaged by the news.

"A few weeks ago…"

I wanted Ashei to go on, but didn't want to relegate any suspicion about what we were doing in her presence that evening. However, it seemed we missed that point when Ashei looked between me and the hero with a hint of distrust, possibly wondering why we looked so distressed.

"Did I miss something?"

I immediately shook my head.

"The timing is odd is all."

I said too much.

"In relation to what?" she asked.

I needed to defer.

"It's nothing, please continue. Have there been any adverse effects as a result of this energy?"

Ashei paused when I dodged her question, but then took another drink.

"Not that any one of my people have seen, but we're monitoring the area just in case."

I milled through that, knowing things were getting more and more complicated as the days passed. All this new activity had to be a result of us pursuing the shards. It had to.

"Thank you for your efforts. I do appreciate them."

Ashei grinned.

"No problem, but you know, I did forget to mention one other thing. I was informed there was a peculiar man dressed in strange ninja gear seen around the Arbiter's Grounds when my people were canvassing the area."

That was quite the revelation.

Sheik.

"What did his gear look like?" My unease grew.

Ashei saw my expression and hesitated again.

"Are you sure there's something you don't want to let me in on? You certainly sound like it."

I needed to be more aware of my facial expressions.

"I apologize, this is just such engrossing news."

Ashei wasn't too taken in by my explanation.

"That's it?"

I nodded.

"I promise, please continue."

Ashei took another drink from her cup. I wondered why she kept doing that. I thought it was odd. But, I kept my inquiry to myself for now.

"There was a large emblematic eye on his breast plate, he had dark hair, red eyes, and his face was covered in bandages. My contacts determined his sex by his build. He was almost six feet tall and very muscular."

That was definitely Sheik she was describing. Even now I could recall his threatening words and manner.

Ashei was studying me.

"Is that description familiar to you?"

I did not see the point in deflecting about that, but the hero spoke before I did.

Link chimed in for more clarity.

"We just recently came in contact with a warrior of that description. I know your people saw him around the grounds, but have you seen him anywhere around here as of late?"

I already knew what the hero was thinking. Sheik was probably going after the third shard much in the same way that we were.

Ashei was quiet for a moment and took another drink.

"I received this information yesterday. There was some spottings of a suspicious character near the Snowpeak Mansion. It's quite possible he's headed to where the yetis live. For what reason, I do not know."

That was exactly where we were headed next.

That bastard is insistent on stopping us at any given junction, isn't he? How in the world did he get up here so quickly? How did he know where to go? He has to be tracking us somehow.

Link looked over at me after Ashei's utterance, which wasn't the subtlest thing to do. Ashei looked between the two of us again. Our overt behavior only made her more suspicious.

"You two are acting beyond strange," she accused. "Seriously, am I missing something here?"

Her question was more of a demand now, and I couldn't blame her. She knew we were being evasive. However, I couldn't tell her the truth. But, Ashei did warrant some kind of explanation. I would go with the cover story like before. She had been very forthcoming with us. I needed to give her something.

"That man may be after something important to my family. I've commissioned Link's help in coming up this way to fetch it. That's why we've come up here, to gather it before he does."

Ashei looked at me surprised.

"Why didn't you reach out to me first? It must be extremely important if you felt the need to leave the confines of the castle to go after it yourself."

She was more right than she knew. However, there was no way I could divulge the full truth to her. Her children's lives, as well as her own life, was at stake in this matter. Bastion's untimely death was evidence of that. I was still reeling from that news. However, before I could reply, Link spoke up.

"We believe he's after the signet ring of the royal family. It was stolen and hidden there."

The hero delivered that lie with such convincing verve. I glanced over at him, grateful he interceded when he did. It was going to take the both of us to make this work. However, that answer didn't sit well with Ashei. She looked between Link and I suspiciously again.

"He's coming all this way for a ring?"

The story did sound pretty farfetched when I thought about it from her point of view. I needed to provide more input to make it sound more convincing.

"It isn't an ordinary ring. The ring has special properties. It's been in my family for generations. During the uprising several years back, it was stolen by one of Zant's henchmen and was lost. I've been tracking it all this time and have finally found its location."

Ashei stared at me while she sat back and pondered on that thought for a moment. She then took another drink from her cup. She must have been determining if she believed what I was saying or not. I hoped it would be enough for her because I wasn't, and couldn't, divulge anymore information.

"I suppose, the royal family does have their secrets."

I knew she had her doubts, but, I couldn't worry about a little distrust right now. I decided not to explain further. Nothing good was coming from it. However, there was something about Ashei's own behavior I found a little disconcerting. I noticed it before, but didn't understand why she was drinking ancient fruit juice before every answer she gave. What was the logic behind that? I found it puzzling. It was then I decided to ask.

"Forgive me," I changed the subject for a moment, "but I must inquire, why do you keep drinking that ancient juice before you answer?"

Ashei paused for a moment. She must have known the question was coming.

"It does seem rather strange doesn't it? But there is a reason for it. You see, ancient fruit juice works in two ways: one, it heals all restorative properties, and two, it enables the drinker to always tell the truth. You can never tell a lie after drinking ancient fruit juice. I drink it before I answer important questions to make sure I don't leave out any information. Bastion and I used to do it all the time before we debriefed each other."

I looked at Ashei surprised, but then saw the reasoning behind it. I was sure it was all in what was asked as well.

"Oh, really?"

Ashei nodded with Link joining in.

"You've never had it?" he asked me.

I shook my head.

"I know the military has a strict accounting for how much of that fruit comes in and out of the castle. I would never think to drink it leisurely, unless the circumstances permitted. No offense to you Miss Ashei."

Ashei shook her head.

"None taken."

I went on.

"I've heard they use it to garner information from prisoners, but it's very hard to ascertain. So they stopped such expensive methods and decided on more aggressive measures. Unless an individual is of high ranking military personnel, or has connections like you Ashei, it's nearly impossible to procure the unguent. However, as for what it truly did, I didn't know until this moment."

Ancient fruit was a rare and valuable commodity. I found it a little strange that Ashei would offer it so freely. Maybe I was putting too much thought into it. Ashei agreed with everything I said, but added one more caveat.

"There is the exception of the gallon flask worth twenty thousand rupees given away, or won I should say, at the archery event at the Hyrulean Festival. That is the only time you'll ever see ancient fruit juice out of military hands and into civilian ones. Even still, it has to be monitored so it won't end up on the black market."

With everything going on, I had completely forgotten about the Hyrulean Festival. It was only a few months away. It was unfortunate that all this was happening on the cusp of such a happy event. This year was especially important, as it was the thousand year jubilee of Nohanseen rule. So it promised to be quite an event. I hoped all catastrophes could be avoided while the people enjoyed their celebratory festivities. It was something everyone looked forward to.

"Well, that's all very interesting."

Afterwards, Link then stood up and stretched. I think he knew it was time to end this conversation.

"Interesting indeed," he yawned. "I hate to cut this short, but I'm afraid we have to get up at dawn to continue our investigation. Is it alright if we bunk in Aura's room tonight?"

Ashei got up and stretched herself.

"Of course, I'll have her sleep with me this evening." She then added. "Did you think I was going to let you sleep in the snow?"

Link grinned.

"I don't know. There is that possibility, you have been known to do some crazy things in the name of the crown of Hyrule, like mangle people."

Ashei chuckled at his words.

"That is true."

I, on the other hand, failed to see the humor. It was bad enough people hated the crown for their own personal reasons. The last thing I needed to hear was that spies and the military were abusing their power.

"You're joking right? You don't really mangle people in the name of the crown, do you?"

Ashei laughed more when she saw the slightly strained expression in my eyes.

"We were both kidding Zelda. Please, try to relax."

I closed my eyes and sighed in relief, which made the both of them chuckle at me. I probably looked so uptight to them.

"Ah, the obstacles of being a queen," Ashei teased.

I gave her an offhanded look.

"You have no idea."

I guess I had an affinity for sounding humorous when I didn't mean to, because they laughed more. However, soon after the teasing at my expense abated.

"You're quite funny Zelda." Ashei put her hands on her hips. "You need to come around more often."

Her comment made me grin. She had no idea how happy her invitation just made me.

"I'm glad you think so, and thank you for the invitation. I will keep you to it."

Ashei chuckled at me once more.

"Please do." She then went to the living room to see about her children. "Alright everyone," she clapped her hands, "it's time for bed."

I looked over at Link who was still grinning at me. He shook his head.

"You're too much, you know that?" he whispered.

I just shrugged, which made him laugh again.

"I guess so."

We then followed Ashei into the living room. The children were standing up in protest.

"But uncle Link and the pretty lady just got here," the oldest whined.

"Yeah," the middle child chimed in. "We can't go to bed without at least playing one hand of jacks with uncle Link!"

The little girl pouted.

"Awww! Really mommy? It's too early for bed!"

Ashei put her hands on her hips and stood her ground.

"Really Aura, I'm sorry children, but playtime is over. Come on, let's go."

The children gave Ashei a little more grief by stating their cases once more. However, it was to no avail and they halfheartedly went upstairs before effectively giving up. Once they were cleaned and settled, Ashei came back down and informed us that she prepared Aura's room for us to sleep in.

"Everything's ready for the two of you in the room at the end of the hall." She then grinned mischievously. "And I remember those past rumors, so don't do anything scandalous while you're here."

My cheeks flushed and I looked at her stunned.

"You know none of that back then was true, right?"

Ashei smirked and crossed her arms over her chest.

"Sure," she said sarcastically.

I turned to Link for some moral support.

"Right?" I reassured.

He didn't seem like he was bothered by the accusation one way or the other. He even shrugged in a playful way.

"Well..."

My cheeks turned even more red.

"Link! Come on!"

Both he and Ashei laughed at me again. I was in a losing battle. Salacious rumors were what the gossip mavens thrived on. Afterwards, Link and I went upstairs to the small room. But, as we got ourselves situated, Link felt the need to divulge something rather unusual. I placed my bag on the floor when he wanted my attention.

"Um... you know the kids were exaggerating about Ilia, right? She's only my friend."

I looked at him surprised. I wasn't thinking about that in one capacity or another. My mind was completely elsewhere.

"Oh, well, if you say so. It's... it's really none of my business. What you two have is what you two have."

He just stared at me for a moment.

"We don't have anything," he stated rather bluntly. "I'm telling you, she's only ever been my friend... that's all."

My surprise never went away. I paused for a moment when I understood completely why he was telling me this. To be frank, I was quite taken aback at how important of a point he was making it.

"Alright... is that why you were so quiet at the table?"

He stared into my eyes for just a moment before he went and put his things on the floor.

"Yes," he replied without looking at me, and didn't add anything else.

That disclosure made me realize how complicated our relationship was becoming. We both knew the unspoken reasons why. I decided to forego them for now, as there was too much already on my mind. In fact, the realization of what Ashei revealed to me earlier was now coming back to the fore. I couldn't believe Bastion was dead. I just couldn't believe it. There was no way I could grieve in front of Link without drawing suspicion to myself, so I excused myself.

"Do you mind if I use the dressing area first?" I asked, disguising the break in my voice. "I really want to get out of these clothes."

Link nodded, he was preoccupied with pulling some sundries out of his bag.

"Go right on ahead."

I wasted no time picking up my satchel and hurrying behind the dressing area. There, it took me a few moments to try and keep quiet, but soon the tears just fell. There was so much I still wanted to share with Bastion. I knew it was impossible for us to have the kind of relationship I wanted, but I certainly wished I could have told him how much he meant to me before he died. He was one of the greatest men I knew. I hope I conveyed that to him in our few moments of being together. I covered my mouth to prevent a sob from escaping, but the whimpering was proving too hard to conceal. I didn't know how I was going to get it together. I didn't know what excuse to use to explain why I was crying. To be honest, I really didn't care. My brother was dead. This was the last thing I was anticipating to find out when I came here. I wiped my eyes with the back of my hands and finally got dressed for bed. However, when I came from behind the dressing area, I was unsurprised to find Link staring at me. He had a look of concern on his face. With my pink tinged eyes, I knew the questions were coming.

"What?" I whispered anyway.

Link gave me a brief once over.

"Ashei told you, didn't she?" He ignored my inquiry.

I paused, but didn't want to prolong this discussion.

I simply nodded.

"Yes..."

There was a brief silence between us, and with it, Link came up to me and took me in his arms. I was a little taken aback, but I didn't pull away.

"I'm sorry I lied to you about Bastion," he whispered in my ear. "I didn't know what else to do."

I stiffened a little, but then I hugged him back.

"Wait a minute," I pulled back to look at his face for a moment, my eyes refilled, "you know don't you?"

Link stared at me for a long time before he nodded.

"Yes, I do. He told me the truth about who he was before he died. I knew he was your brother."

My tears spilled over and my bottom lip started quivering.

"I didn't even get to say goodbye. He died, and I didn't even get to say goodbye."

Link's expression filled with remorse.

"He knew how much you would have wanted to, but I know what you mean, I miss him too."

At this point I couldn't mask my sobbing. I was completely inconsolable. Link took me back in his arms and held me tight.

"Please, please," he begged quietly against my ear, "he wouldn't want you to be this way."

I held him tight and sobbed in his chest.

"I know, I know, I know, I know."

We stood there holding each other, until I was okay enough to let go and get my bearings together. I pulled from Link's reach and wiped my eyes.

"I'm sorry, I feel like such a fool. I'm turning into a crybaby."

Link grunted softly.

"Stop talking like that. There's nothing wrong with feeling sad when you're sad. It's called being Hylian."

I nodded and took in a deep sigh. Link came up to me and cradled my face with his strong hands and I appreciated how kind and attentive he was being. I looked up at him and tried to smile.

"Thank you for being so caring. Really, I appreciate it."

He looked at me seriously and nodded. One of his thumbs stroked over my cheek.

"You don't need to thank me. I want to help you in any way that I can."

I smiled again and gave him another hug. Afterwards, I pulled from his reach and went over to the bed and got under the covers. Link sighed before getting ready for bed himself. When he came from behind the divider, he went and put some other things away, but afterwards he pulled a blanket from the cupboard and settled himself in an uncomfortable recliner across the room. I looked at him taken aback, hardly expecting him to be so uncomfortable when there was more than enough room for the both of us in the bed. I couldn't allow him to sleep like that and catch a cold. I then pulled the sheets back and rubbed the spot next to me on the mattress.

"Why don't you sleep next to me tonight? It's quite chilly."

Link looked at me surprised.

"What?"

I didn't want him getting the wrong idea with my invitation.

"You're going to catch a cold. It's freezing."

Link stared at me for a moment.

"Uh… no thank you."

I wasn't going to take that for an answer.

"I insist."

He shook his head.

"No," he said a little bit more firmly.

I looked at him disappointed.

"Why ever not?"

He simply stared at me.

"It's just not a good idea."

His reasoning was skewed.

"And getting frostbite is?" I challenged.

He groaned.

"Zelda-"

I crossed my arms over my chest.

"What is this nonsense you're speaking? Are you afraid of me or something?"

Link looked at me taken aback.

"Excuse me?"

I shook my head.

"You heard what I said. Are you really going to let your pride get the best of you?"

His eyes widened slightly.

"This has nothing to do with pride."

I nodded.

"This has everything to do with pride. Now stop being foolish and get over here."

He couldn't believe I was saying this to him. He was dumbstruck for a moment.

"Zelda..."

I rubbed the spot next to me again.

"Now," I said a little more insistently.

Link paused for a long moment. But then, eventually got up and did as I instructed. When he was in bed next to me, I turned in the opposite direction and faced the wall.

"You see," I closed my eyes, "it's not so bad. I'm not so scary after all."

Link didn't answer right away, but I soon knew why when he scooted very close to me and boldly wrapped his arms around my waist. He nestled me close to him so that my back was pressed against his chest. I couldn't have been more secure. Surprised at this, I looked over my shoulder at him. His face was only inches from mine now. His sky blue eyes were mesmerizing, even in the moonlight.

"What... what are you doing?" I whispered.

He gave my face a long once over. It was an intended gaze.

"Just making sure you're safe. Now go to sleep."

I hesitated, but then turned back to face the wall and didn't protest any longer. In fact, I was glad he was being as assertive as he was. Normally, I wouldn't have said anything about him sleeping in the chair, but the night air was so cold. It would be cruel not to. Even so, I closed my eyes and said nothing else on the matter.

"Goodnight."

With that, we should have drifted off to sleep. However, we were silent for about twenty minutes before I instinctively spoke up again. I wasn't certain Link had succumbed, but I had a feeling our silence was artificial.

"Are you awake?" I whispered.

There was a brief pause.

"No," he whispered back.

His joke made me giggle.

"Are you too tired to talk?"

He paused again.

"Of course not."

I then turned around to face him. He was already staring at me. They really were extraordinary. Even now, Link's eyes appeared like sapphire stones.

"I would like to ask you a few questions about Bastion if I may."

The hero nodded.

"Sure, what would you like to know?"

I didn't reply right away, as I then avoided his gaze.

"I knew he was a brave man... a good man. But, could you tell me what he was really like from day to day? The small things?"

Link pondered on the question for a moment, before reaching up and stroking my hair.

"The small things?" he repeated.

I nodded.

"Yes," I replied. "Did he have any idiosyncrasies I wasn't aware of? Was he a baleful soul when he was upset?"

My questions made the hero chuckle.

"I don't know about idiosyncrasies Zelda, or even if baleful is the right term to describe Bastion, but, he was funny, kind, and a great fighter; probably one of the best swordsman in the army."

I probably was being a bit hyperbolic with my inquiries.

"Was he really that good?"

The hero nodded.

"One of the best. I reckon that was why Ashei and him connected so well. Bastion was proficient in her favorite style of fencing. Though the broadsword was his weapon of choice."

I found some of his syntax humorous.

"You reckon?" I repeated.

He nodded.

"Indeed. I sometimes forget you aren't savvy in all the ways peasants talk. It must be confusing to you."

I gave him an obvious look.

"I know what 'reckon' means. I am not that pretentious."

Link looked to seize the opportunity I gave him.

"So you admit you are pretentious at times?"

I could not help but chuckle.

"That is not what I meant, but... yes."

Link chuckled in return.

"I knew it."

I didn't want to get too off subject.

"Please go on," I pressed.

Link nodded.

"Of course." He looked past me out the window for a moment. "So, Bastion was a good swordsman. That was what attracted Ashei." Link seemed to be jogging his memory. "Ah, but I think I found what you might consider an 'idiosyncrasy'."

I stared at him puzzled.

"What do you mean?"

Link glanced my way again.

"He had a penchant for a soup I couldn't stand. He really liked tektite soup."

I made a disgusted face immediately.

"Yuck! You must be joking!"

The hero chuckled again.

"I'm afraid not. I have no idea why he liked tektite soup so much. Perhaps it was surviving in the desert all that time."

My expression never changed.

"Tektite soup?" I repeated.

Link nodded.

"Yes indeed."

I couldn't account for it.

"What in Hylia's name would compel him to eat such a thing?" I asked rhetorically. "You're right, that is most definitely an idiosyncrasy."

Link continued to snicker at my tone.

"Don't hold it against him. We all have our quirks. Mine is sharpening my sword relentlessly, and yours is talking to yourself, or did you forget?"

I frowned.

"Talking to myself is not a quirk. It helps me think."

Link gave me a wayward look.

"I would wager that if you asked anyone else what they thought, they would tell you otherwise. Unless, they were afraid of reprisal due to you being queen."

He had a point. I would never admit it to him though.

"I still don't think it's a quirk." I remained stubborn.

The hero grinned.

"Suit yourself, just remember that when you think of your kin."

A point well taken.

"Any other secrets about Bastion I should know?" I redirected.

Link appeared thoughtful.

"He had a great deal of secrets, many of which I still don't know, so I couldn't tell you that. As for other oddities in his personality, I guess you would have had to have been around him to judge for yourself. I can't say for a certainty if he had anymore. Though, I would say he was a great storyteller. He knew how to make stories feel alive. It felt like he put you in the action."

I grinned.

"That is quite a feat. I don't think people realize how much skill orating is."

The hero nodded.

"I agree with you. It takes a great deal of courage to narrate in front of a crowd."

I stared at him surprised.

"He narrated in front of a crowd?"

The hero nodded.

"He did indeed. A few times actually."

I got nervous at the thought.

"I couldn't imagine."

Link wrapped a lock of my hair around his forefinger.

"I didn't know how he did it either. However, I think what was really interesting about your brother was his philosophy on life."

My ears perked at that.

"Which was what exactly?"

Link then got quiet.

"It wasn't based off a Hylian philosopher per se, but rather a life code he often talked about. He used to tell me often 'don't put off tomorrow what can be done today, because we aren't guaranteed tomorrow'."

That actually reminded me of Gaepora Kaepora. He wrote about the topic all the time. Perhaps Link or Bastion weren't aware that a philosopher penned such ideas.

"Wise words to live by," I said anyway.

Link shrugged.

"I thought so too, until it constantly got us in trouble."

My grin widened.

"What do you mean by that?"

Link shook his head.

"I mean, I'm surprised we didn't get into more fights due to some of the shenanigans we found ourselves in."

The hero's expression was fond. I thought that was very considerate. I could tell he really enjoyed Bastion's company.

"And what do you mean by shenanigans?" I pressed. "I hope it wasn't trouble."

He shrugged.

"Not all the time. We had some fights here and there."

That wasn't too reassuring.

"What do you mean here and there?"

He thought nothing of it.

"Just what I said: here and there."

I gave him a knowing look.

"Link... were you and Bastion wreaking havoc in Hyrule? I don't think the people would be as fond of you, if you were truly a trouble maker with Bastion."

The hero smirked, something he was pondering over made him chuckle.

"True, but I'm talking more about the aristocracy. We did a great deal of covert missions together after the fall of Zant. The aristocracy was behind a majority of the corruption we uncovered. It was... how we had to infiltrate those circles that was surprising."

I waited for him to go on, but he never did.

"And... how did you two infiltrate?"

Link paused, but then shook his head.

"I'd rather not say."

I found that surprising. I wanted to hear his reasons.

"Why not?"

He shook his head again.

"It isn't appropriate."

I then looked at him stunned.

"Link... come on, tell me please."

The hero was adamant.

"No, I'm sorry. There are some things I just cannot tell you."

Now, I was intrigued more than ever.

"Shall I command you?" I teased. "Do I have to remind you that I am a queen?"

He wasn't baited by that either.

"It's a command I couldn't obey. You don't want to know about Hyrule's underbelly Zelda. It's ugly."

I pulled myself away from his reach just then and hovered over him so I could look into his eyes. His gaze was mesmerizing. What was he hiding? What was he thinking about? I really wanted to know, but I sensed how serious he was in not telling me. There was something in his tone that told me to yield. My curiosity was getting the better of me, but I took the caution. However, it didn't make me less intrigued. In fact, it made me more so.

"Does this have to do with... with the Brotherhood of Hyrule?" I whispered.

He paused for a long time before he nodded.

"Yes," he whispered back.

My eyes searched his face.

"Really?"

He nodded.

"Really."

Now I really wanted to know.

"Was... was Bastion a member?"

Link stared right back into my eyes.

"I can't say for certain, but I had my suspicions."

I stared at him puzzled.

"What gave you those suspicions?"

He shook his head.

"I didn't know about any of this stuff until I started adventuring with him. And even after Zant and Ganondorf's fall, that was only the beginning of learning about that secret society for me."

This was fascinating.

"I've always had my suspicions too," I admitted, "but didn't know either. Bastion never told me."

Link gave me an offhanded look.

"He never discussed any of these things with you?"

I shook my head.

"No, why do you think I asked?" I looked away for a moment. "But given how he died, I reckon that brotherhood had something to do with it."

Link grinned at my reply.

"You reckon, huh?"

I nodded.

"I do indeed."

Link then took in a deep sigh and glanced up at the ceiling.

"Whatever his reasons, Bastion did what he did to protect the people around him. I believe that. I believe that more than anything. I never held it against him that he kept things from me. I knew he had too. Finding out his true lineage was the greatest secret he had. I just hope he found what he was looking for before he died."

His words made me feel solemn.

"I hope so too... I miss him terribly," I whispered.

Link looked my way again and reached up and caressed my cheek.

"I miss him too."

I gazed into the hero's penetrating stare.

"Did... did he tell you his real name?"

Link was quiet for a moment, but then he nodded.

"Yes."

I found it telling that he didn't want to utter it out loud. I think I understood why. It almost felt sacred. It was then I felt a twinge of mild confusion for my father in that moment. My father... he created all these lives and broken hearts at the same time. Was that a Nohanseen trait? It seemed my grandfather had that problem too, or... so it was rumored. Unfortunately, it was infidelity that gave me my family... a family I still had to lose.

"That poor Gerudo woman must have really been in love with my father," I whispered absently to myself.

The hero was quiet.

"She must have," he replied anyway. "I went looking for her after Bastion passed away. She was inconsolable when I told her about the fate of her son."

I was quiet at the disclosure, finding it both painful and abstemious at the same time. I could only imagine what went through that poor woman's head, losing her son to such erroneous circumstances. Another thing I found a bit odd was Link still referring to my brother by his pseudonym. Why was he still calling him Bastion? Perhaps there was something deeper behind the reliance on my brother's alias that I was not aware of. Maybe Link would share it with me one day. In the meantime, I was not going to force the issue. There was a brief silence between us after that. However, I didn't want the conversation to end. I enjoyed learning more about my brother. But also, I wanted to keep the conversation positive.

I tried to cheer the hero up. He appeared a bit sullen.

"Thank you for always caring about him. He was very fortunate to have a friend like you."

Link stared at the ceiling again, and, for a moment, I saw his eyes water. He quickly blinked the oncoming tears away and avoided my gaze now.

"Yeah..." was all he uttered.

I was surprised to see that bit of emotion from him, but not really. They were best friends. There was no telling what they shared in conversation. Men needed that outlet too, no matter what the greater sentiment of society claimed. It pained me that Bastion couldn't be here with his family and friends, but it made me cherish his memory all the more. I didn't want his children to ever forget him. I knew Ashei would never forsake his memory. Even so, I decided to change the subject. The mood was becoming heavy, and the day had been heavy enough. However, before I could speak, Link broke the silence first. He brought up something I never expected him to. Something that seemed completely out of nowhere quite frankly.

"You know, he wanted me to marry you," he confessed suddenly.

I froze at the revelation and blushed. I didn't know what to say.

"What?"

Link was silent for a moment before he repeated himself.

"Bastion wanted me to marry you," he repeated.

My heart began to beat rapidly.

"Oh... that's what I thought you said."

There was another silence, as Link cut his gaze from the ceiling and stared at me once more. His gaze was so intimate... so raw and real.

"He told me we would have been good for each other," he whispered.

My throat tightened.

"Did he?"

He nodded.

"He did."

Another silence overcame us, and I didn't know what to think. How was I supposed to respond to this? What was I supposed to do with this information now? Those years had gotten away from us. The people we were back then weren't who we were now. I wish I had an appropriate answer. I just didn't know what to say.

"He... he would have been disappointed in us," I whispered.

The hero was quiet at my reply. It seemed he didn't have very much to say either.

"He would have been, and... he was."

That was telling.

He was... so they discussed this on more than one occasion, I perceived.

The silence came back and I laid there mildly conflicted. I had no idea he was going to take the conversation in this direction. What was I supposed to feel? What was I supposed to say? Was he giving me permission to tell him how I felt about him? Was he telling me there was more to what he felt for me than friendship? I simply did not know. The silence prolonged and Link decided to dismiss the subject. He suddenly nodded toward the pillow next him.

"Come on, you better go to sleep. We have to get up early tomorrow."

Frankly, I wasn't sure I could sleep after what we just talked about. However, I knew that was Link's way of negating the conversation. I simply nodded.

"I guess you're right."

I went from hovering over the hero, and got comfortable once again next to him. He resumed his side lying position and wrapped his arms around me. But, I was slightly troubled. I wish I had been more prudent with the conversation. I hope he didn't think I was being too intrusive. However, I was surprised a moment later when he went to reassure me.

"I'm glad we talked about this," he whispered in my ear.

I wasn't quite as optimistic.

"I'm glad we did too," I said anyway.

Once again, we got quiet and finally drifted off to sleep. We were going to need it. We had a long day ahead of us tomorrow.

~SSS~

A fantasy:

I opened my eyes and immediately noticed something different about the room. It was hazy. What was this haze? Had the fire smoldered too long? Had the embers sifted into the air? I lifted my head from the hero's chest where it was resting to investigate. I saw that the hearth wasn't irregular. It was fine. I saw that the embers were gathered about. They were not sifted. Something else was bringing about this haze. A fog perhaps? I then turned to look out the window and took note of the clear night sky. The snow had stopped falling and the heavens parted to reveal a white sliver of a moon. It was beautiful. The stars beyond it sparkled like diamonds. The revelation completely diminished my fog theory. Even so, why was this haze misting about the room? What was causing it?

I looked around again intrigued, until I caught a glance of a hint of blue. I looked down and noticed Link's lingering gaze. Our conversation had lulled us to sleep... but now his eyes were open. I wasn't sure how long it had been. An hour? Two? Five? I wasn't sure. There was no clock in the room to reference. I smiled at Link's awakening and rested my head back on the hero's chest... listening to his strong heartbeat. It was such a solid musculature. I enjoyed listening to his heartbeat as I slept. I glanced up at him, knowing he wasn't going to go back to sleep now. He appeared like he wanted to inquire something of me.

"What are you doing?" he asked.

I nestled against him.

"Nothing really, just trying to get comfortable."

He went to stroke a lock of my hair.

"Did you sleep well?"

I shrugged.

"As well as I could... considering the circumstances."

It was in that moment, I raised myself up a little and hovered over him. Not very much, just so I could stare into his eyes directly. I could tell from his gaze he caught the flirtatious inflection in my voice. My grin broadened. He didn't return it, but I didn't take that as a sign of him being cross. No... not with the way he was looking at me. My eyes searched his face... his beautiful face. I spoke again, but only in a whisper.

"Why are you staring at me like that?"

His gaze never faltered.

"Are you asking because you want an honest answer?"

I should have anticipated that counter.

"I think so," I said anyway.

He ran his forefinger over my nose gently.

"I just like looking at you. You're very beautiful."

Admittedly, I blushed at his compliment. I knew I would, and I was certain he knew I would too.

"You're beautiful too."

The hero didn't reply, he simply nodded. His beauty was extraordinary. It was hard for me to deny it, but I was certain he didn't want that to be my reply. I didn't think he wanted me to make it a topic of conversation. He probably got tired of everyone always telling him he was so good looking. I decided to start a conversation in a different way.

"Tell me a secret," I whispered. "Tell me something you've never told another woman."

Link gave me a wayward look.

"Why?"

"Why not?"

The hero shrugged.

"There's not very much for me to tell you... not anything that would be fitting for the moment anyway."

I grinned.

"What does that mean?"

Link paused for a moment, but then sat up a little and filled in some of the space between us.

"It means no secret I have would be fitting for what you truly want of me," he whispered.

My heart suddenly skipped a beat at his words.

"I beg your pardon?"

He gave me a furtive grin.

"Do you really want to play this game Zelda?"

I edged back a little.

"I-I don't know what you mean."

Now he had an obvious look.

"You know what I mean. The question should be: tell me a secret that you haven't told another soul Zelda. It seems you want to be more than you're letting on."

I avoided his eyes just then, but afterwards mustered up some courage to resume my gaze. Slowly, I reached up and caressed his cheek. I let my fingers linger on his perfect face, mapping his visage with tactile precision. As my palm moved past his mouth, the hero conspicuously took hold of my hand and kissed it. It was a very deliberate action... similar to his actions in Zoras Domain. I froze and instinctively pulled my hand back, but Link never let go. My breathing quickened just then from nervousness.

"Link..." I whispered. "I... I have no secrets to tell... at least, like you, none fitting for the moment."

The hero didn't reply as he stared in my eyes. Instead, he wrapped his arms around my waist, and without waiting for a cue, he reached in and kissed me. It was a passionate kiss from the go. I stiffened, unsure in how to respond, and didn't immediately kiss him back. I was taken aback by his actions, but not startled. I wanted this. A part of me longed for this. I wanted his touch. I longed for my hero to hold me. Feeling the warmth of his breath was feverish and exciting. I couldn't pretend that I didn't want this from him. I couldn't pretend that I didn't want him to coax this out of me. I was extremely nervous when he kissed me again, but not afraid. I could never be afraid of Link. There was so much more ardency in his lips... so much passion. Soon, my guard came down and I was kissing him back. His lips felt incredible. I felt his tongue in my mouth, and his fingers in my hair. I wrapped my arms around his body and hugged him close. Furtively, he then slid his mouth by my ear and whispered: "What do you want me to do to you?"

I seized up slightly at the inquiry, knowing full well he was talking about much more than a kiss. I closed my eyes as his hands ran down my back. I couldn't control the natural reactions my body had to his voice, which meant precipitate sexual arousal. I was trying not to give in to it, but it was admittedly very difficult. However, I knew there was only so far we would go, we were at Ashei's. Her children were only a stone's throw away. We couldn't be so reckless to make love here. I had to pull away and shake my head.

"I-I can't," I stammered.

Link stared into my eyes and asked the question again.

"What do you want me to do to you Zelda?"

My body responded again to his tone, especially when he filled in the space with another kiss. There was more passion on my part now. The hero didn't let up on his inquiries, as he guided me backwards onto the mattress.

"What do you want my queen? How do you want me to serve you tonight?" His voice was intoxicating.

I didn't reply right away, but I was succumbing. I wanted him so badly. I wanted to know what his love felt like. I let him continue to seduce me. His mouth was on my ear again, but this time his body was on top of me and I felt the hardness of his bulge. I felt the coolness of his breath, the lingering feeling of his hands as they caressed over my soon to be unclothed breasts. I wanted him immensely. I made sure my kisses reflected that.

"Link..." I whimpered, "oh goddesses, you're driving me mad."

He still didn't let up.

"You still have not answered my question," he taunted. "You still haven't told me what you wanted me to do to you."

My cheeks were most certainly a crimson color.

"Link..."

"Tell me..."

"Link..."

"Say it Zelda..."

"Make... make love to me... make love to me Link..."

~SSS~

Later that night, Link

Zelda rolled onto her side and nestled closer to me. It was an involuntary action.

"Link..." she moaned softly without realizing it, "that feels incredible!"

That was unexpected. I had no idea what the queen was talking about, but at the sound of her voice, I opened my eyes. I stared at the sleeping monarch taken aback.

"'That feels incredible?'" I repeated to myself. "What feels incredible? What is she talking about?"

I realized then Zelda was still sleeping. Her eyes were closed, but she was writhing like she was conscious. With the way she was breathing and moaning, I didn't have to imagine what she was probably dreaming about. It seemed obvious. Even so, I wanted to approach this delicately. I decided to watch her and wait and see if she was going to wake herself up. I didn't want to startle her. She was holding on tightly to the pillow she was laying on, and I noticed her legs were squeezed shut. She was breathing hard and probably receiving more pleasure in her dreams than she would probably ever accept in real life. It was in that moment I decided to wake her. If I didn't then she would probably run the risk of accidently striking me. I shook her gently. She didn't rouse right away, even though she was able to speak. She must have been deep in that dream cycle. It took me two good shakes to wake her. Unfortunately, when Zelda opened her eyes, she was startled. She naturally rescinded from my reach when she saw me staring at her.

"Wha-what's going on?" she whispered.

I gave her a quick once over.

"Are you alright?"

She didn't answer right away.

"What do you mean? Why do you ask?"

I gave her a knowing look.

"Your sleep appeared restless. You almost struck me. I just wanted to make sure you were okay."

Zelda avoided my eyes just then.

"I'm fine. I'm sorry for almost hitting you."

I studied her for a moment.

"Were you having a nightmare?"

She shook her head.

"No."

I raised a brow.

"You're sure about that?"

She nodded.

"I'm quite certain Master Link."

That was a misnomer if I ever heard one. She only reverted to that when she was nervous. Now, what would she have to be nervous about? There was a brief silence that overcame us. However, as it prolonged, I came a little closer to her. I decided it was time to reveal a few truths.

"Are you certain you have nothing you want to tell me?" I whispered.

Zelda shook her head.

"No."

I studied her again.

"Remember when I was telling you that you talk a lot to yourself. Well, it turns out you talk in your sleep as well."

She immediately blushed.

"What?"

I nodded.

"Apparently, I was doing something to make you feel... 'incredible'."

She sank lower into the mattress.

"Dear goddesses... are you serious? You heard that? I said that?"

I raised my hands in surrender.

"Your words not mine," I reiterated.

The queen kept her gaze from me. It was apparent she was embarrassed that I caught her in such a compromising moment. It wasn't as though she was planning any of this. I wasn't going to give her a hard time about being Hylian. Though, I had to admit it was nice to know I wasn't the only one having naughty dreams about my travel companion. She was dealing with the issue too.

"I... I..." Zelda didn't know what to say.

I stopped her, not wanting her to feel anymore awkward than she already did.

"Your secret is safe with me," I whispered. "Don't worry about it."

Zelda finally glanced over at me and bit her lower lip.

"Link I..." she was still at a loss for words.

I grinned and hoped to put her at ease. I brought her close to me and hugged her tight.

"It's okay," I whispered in her hair. "It's okay. You have nothing to be embarrassed about. Just go to sleep and try not to think about it anymore."

She closed her eyes and hugged me back.

"I'm so sorry," she said finally. "I feel so ashamed."

I shook my head.

"There is no need for shame. It isn't something to get all upset about, alright?" I pulled back so I could look her in the eyes. "Alright?"

Zelda met my gaze once more and nodded. She grinned, though she still looked discomfited.

"Thank you for being so understanding," she whispered. "I promise it won't happen again."

That was a promise I hoped she would not keep. She could dream about me as much as she wanted. We laid back down and attempted to go back to sleep.

"There's no thanks necessary," I reassured.

Zelda then closed her eyes and attempted to go back to sleep. I watched her for a moment and felt a stirring for her I was trying to stave off. She wasn't the only one struggling here.

In a perfect world, you wouldn't need a dream to make you feel incredible. In a perfect world, I would make you feel incredible whenever you wanted. In a perfect world, I would be making love to you right now... Zelda.

~SSS~

The next day, Zelda

I remember reading about circadian rhythms as a child. It was the internal clock that worked in junction with the universal environment. As such, Link's and my circadian rhythms were set for dawn. When dawn arrived we got up, readied ourselves, and headed up to Snowpeak Mansion. Besides my own personal embarrassment from the previous night, my sleep was quite good. Link was a complete gentleman in not bringing up what I said or did. The sooner I could forget it, the better. I wanted to put it behind me. Erotic dreams were, well, just that, erotic dreams. They happened and they ended.

The trek to this mansion was not going to be an easy one, as we were going to have to traverse the mountain via a sled. Or, so I thought. Link had other ideas. Unconventionally, the hero pulled out one of his bottles and poured some cold water onto the ground. The water instantly hardened and took the shape of a long oval sleigh. When I discerned what our new mode of travel was, I was surprised he only made one. He jumped on and gestured for me to take his hand.

"Let's be off."

However, I didn't budge.

"Don't I get my own sleigh?"

The hero wasn't expecting that response.

"You know how to use a snow sled?"

I grinned at him and put my hands on my hips.

"As a matter of fact, yes, I do, and I'm pretty good at it too!"

Link smiled.

"Really?"

I nodded.

"Yes, really. My father taught me when I was little. He told me the mountain is only your enemy if you don't understand the landscape. Respect the landscape, and you can conquer it."

He looked at me impressed.

"Wise words from your father." He then opened up his bottle of water, poured it, and made another board. "Let's see if your respect matches your skill."

I relished at his challenging words.

"Are you doubting me?"

The hero shrugged.

"Not anymore than I would anyone else. However, if the sliding incident is any barometer, I confess I am not thoroughly convinced."

I had a feeling that would be his response. He had no idea.

"Your cynicism shall be your folly. I'll tell you what, why don't we have a little wager? Whoever loses, the loser has to tend to the other's wounds."

Link smiled at the idea.

"What?"

I crossed my arms over my chest.

"You heard what I said. Since you're so brilliant, you shouldn't have any worries, right? It's simple: the loser will tend to the other person's wounds, no matter the outcome."

The hero chuckled.

"You're already foreseeing an injury? I don't think you have too much faith in your ability."

I scoffed slightly.

"Your arrogance will be your undoing."

Link gave me an obvious look.

"It hasn't let me down thus far. Alright, you're on. When I win you'll tend to me, and don't cry when you lose. I am the Hero of Twilight after all."

Admittedly, his inflection did make me giggle. There was something about a confident man that was alluring. Even so, I was certain in my ability. This time he was in for a surprise.

"We'll see about that! You have no idea how competitive the women in my family are!"

I then jumped on my sleigh and got ready. Link chuckled again at my stance and we both took our positions. Afterwards, he readied his hand to signal the officiating.

"On your mark… get set… go!"

With that, we took off. I careened low and to the left because I knew the first thing people wanted to do on this mountain was go right. Why? Because it was safer, and I was not trying to be safe. I was trying to win. I hadn't been to Snowpeak, but I read about the terrain and studied the typography in school. As I glided over the surface, I avoided several patches of crud and inconsistent ice. The potholes could be dangerous. I turned to my right to see how my opponent was doing. Link was sailing with a perfect and consistent motion.

He's so self assured, isn't he? Well, we'll see if he stays self assured.

Suddenly, the road bifurcated and we both jumped up to the tree tops. I was impressed. So... he knew about this short cut too. My father told me about it when I was little, and Link must have ventured this way on his adventures. Even so, the hero was surprised that I was maintaining my momentum.

"I guess you know this area better than I thought!"

I wasn't going to be faltered by him.

"You'd be surprised at all that I know hero!"

Link leaned low and jumped from tree top to tree top with relative ease. When we got to the midway point and landed on a curvature of the mountain, Link jumped and did a full turn and a half. He landed like he was the king of Hyrule or something.

I grunted.

Show off. Well, two can play that game!

I had some moves too. I jumped and front flipped into a maneuver where I landed facing the slope backwards. The hero stared at me astonished.

"Wow." He was not able to hide his shock.

I winked, waved, and turned back around doing a half turn.

"Woo! Hoo! See you at the finish line pretty boy!"

I heard Link laugh at my glee behind me.

"Pretty boy huh? I see how it is Zelda! You only pretend to be prim and proper so people can underestimate you!"

I flashed him a sly smile and Link laughed even more.

"Exactly! You've got me all figured out, don't you?"

He was gaining on me.

"Of course not! You don't have that Triforce of Wisdom for nothing!"

I laughed again, but then concentrated when I saw we were approaching the final pass and the mansion was in sight.

Hylia don't fail me now!

The final stretch of snow was over a bridge and Link was gaining on me. His legs were stronger than mine and he wasn't wearing a bloody dress.

Come on Zelda!

I lowered my body to cut through some of the natural aerodynamics when I leaned forward. Out of nowhere, I saw Link match me in my periphery.

Oh no you don't! This race is mine! Mine!

The finish line was in sight, and I could taste the victory, when suddenly a large heavy furred creature stepped into my line of sight. My eyes widened instantly.

"AHHHHHH!" I screamed, having to quickly careen to the right, barely missing Link in the process.

I hit a rock, stumbled, and landed in a pile of soft snow. I was grateful it wasn't a boulder.

"Ow," I moaned. "I think I may have broken something."

My statement of the broken limb was hyperbole, but the whole fiasco made Link pass the finish line first. I sat up attempting to get my bearings together.

Damn it! I turned to look at the hero with snow all in my hair. I should have won this race!

I held my hand over my racing heart, and reached up to pull myself from the frosty powder using a branch of a tree. I turned and saw that both Link and the abominable snow creature were staring at me. Link walked up to me in alarm.

"Are you alright? That looked like a nasty fall."

I almost didn't hear him. I was too busy staring at the creature.

"I'm fine." I swallowed hard.

I had never seen anything like it. The creature stared back at me and grinned.

What in Hylia's name...?

Link saw my facial expression and shook his head in disbelief at my gaze.

"Zelda…" He gave me a look of warning to stop gawking, "do you mind?"

I understood his misgivings, but again, I was too preoccupied to give him a standard reaction. I shook my head and eventually looked away.

"I'm sorry, I just didn't-"

"-know how fast you were going," Link adroitly interceded, then looked up at the snow creature. "She didn't realize how fast she was going Yeto."

I shook my head of more snow.

Yeto? Link knows this creature?

"Uh… yes," I went along with his cue. "Please forgive my imprudence."

Link looked at me incredulously.

"Imprudence?" he muttered to himself.

Yeto suddenly started laughing.

"That's uh, alright uh. Me wife uh, just uh, getting uh ready uh to eat uh."

I was slightly caught off guard by its unusual speech pattern.

Does it say 'uh' after everything?

"Yeto this is Zelda," Link introduced us. "Zelda this is Yeto."

I wasn't sure what to say.

"Uh…" I was not trying to be humorous, "I'm pleased to make your acquaintance."

The yeti smiled again and started walking towards me. I was trying hard to hide my fear. I forced a smile across my face as it stopped right in front of me. My throat tightened.

Dear Hylia help me now.

The yeti leaned over and looked me dead in the eyes.

"You uh want uh fish uh stew…uh?"

Before I could reply, Link interjected again.

"We don't have time for that Yeto." He walked up next to me to make sure I was alright. "We just need to gain access to your house to look for something we lost."

Yeto looked a little disappointed.

"You uh no uh want uh eat… uh?"

Link shook his head.

"No, we don't have any time to waste."

Yeto couldn't understand how we could refuse the invitation, but merely shrugged at Link's conjecture.

"Okay uh, if you no want, you no eat… uh."

I couldn't take my eyes off the creature.

"Thanks Yeto." Link then took my hand and pulled me from in front of the yeti.

We headed for the entrance in a rather hurried manner. I turned to look at the yeti once more. It was still grinning at me.

"Bye uh pretty lady… uh."

I couldn't help but smile.

That yeti is like a gentle giant.

Once Link and I were inside, the hero pulled me to the side and looked at me with open frustration. I wasn't sure why he was upset.

What is this all about?

"You have got to get your nerves under control. You better be glad Yeto is so sweet natured because you were incredibly rude with the way you were just staring at him!"

I was surprised at this chastisement.

"If I had known I was coming across a fifteen feet yeti, I would have better prepared myself for the shock! Why are you getting on my case?"

Link took a step toward me.

"It doesn't matter, your whole expression was jarring. You were staring at him like he was a monster! How would that make you feel?"

I saw his point, but thought he was being a little hyperbolic.

"I understand where you're coming from, but that wasn't my intention. Also too, don't forget who you are talking to. I think your comfort level with me has made you amnesic to your sense of respect."

Link stared at me taken aback.

"Are you serious? I'm trying to help you and this is your response?"

I turned my nose up slightly, wiping more snow from my hair.

"I'm quite serious, you're being ridiculous."

Link shook his head and cut his gaze.

"Whatever… if that's the way you see things then fine... your majesty."

It wasn't my intention to sound snobbish, but I did come off that way. This was the last thing we needed. I immediately regretted acting so haughty. Link turned and started heading onward, when I took hold of his hand. I pulled him back gently. He turned to me surprised, but was standoffish.

"Yes?"

I wanted to make amends.

"Please," I squeezed his hand affectionately, "please, don't be upset. I'm sorry, I was being foolish. You were only trying to help me."

Link looked away again and sighed. He didn't reply. I bit my lower lip and stared at him hopefully.

"No hard feelings?"

He paused before answering.

"If you insist on throwing your title at me every time you get upset, then we won't be able to work together. I need for you to trust me."

He was correct. I couldn't expect us to have a mutual respect for each other if I reverted back to a superiority complex. I didn't have much of a rebuttal.

"You're right, that was silly of me. I only did it because of my pride... do you forgive me?"

Link paused once more. He groaned at my utterance.

"Yeah, sure I forgive you."

I squeezed his hand again, but then boldly stepped up to him and kissed him on his cheek. I was sure he wouldn't object to that.

Link looked at me surprised.

"What was that for?"

I shrugged.

"A little token of my appreciation. Like I said before, you're only trying to help me. I just wanted to thank you properly for it."

His surprise never went away, but his previous frustration did. He actually grinned at me when I tried to soften his stance with another smile. The last thing I wanted for us was to start fighting again. We had come so far. I did not want to go back to that. After our truce, the hero looked around the grand hall we were standing in.

"So... why are we here?" Link asked finally.

I was glad he asked that question. I was eager to move on.

"The riddle stated that there is 'great potential in the cooling...' From what I've gathered, the entrance to a tunnel, or pit, or something should lead us to Death Mountain or Dragon Roost from here."

Link looked impressed.

"You figured that out from that?"

I simply nodded.

The hero shook his head.

"You never cease to amaze me with how you come up with your explanations. Even so, you've been spot on thus far. I see no reason to doubt you now."

I smiled and did a quick curtsy. Link chuckled, then offered me his hand. I took it gratefully. No questions asked.

"From what you told me, I think I know exactly where we need to go. Come on."

With that, we left the great hall and started our search. The mansion was huge, standing three stories high, with reinforced rafters and beams for added fortifications. Gothic chandeliers hung from the ceilings in several places. The frozen velveteen, red, plush carpet covered the main foyer and stairwell, as well as the adjacent stairwells leading to the upper halls. The windows were frostbitten, with two inch thick glass, set in broad oak window panes. The outside gardens were more like weapon graveyards, with artillery cannons and bombs littering the cold cruddy earth. The sights made me think this old mansion was once a military outpost from the Great War. But afterward it was abandoned by the battalions stationed here. The yetis must have salvaged this place years later. On the upper floor, the bedrooms were wide and commodious, looking like small apartment chambers, with king sized beds and bathing rooms. The thick plush draperies kept the rooms looking dark. Broken crates and precious rare statues were along the walls, accompanied with frozen art work. It was a very dreary looking place. I was simply grateful there were no longer any monsters lurking about.

We continued to go through the different bedrooms, until we entered one that stood out. It had a large fireplace in the center of the room, with an equally large ice bolder covering the fire pit where the logs were supposed to go. Link and I went closer to investigate. The ice was blue and abnormally cold.

It looked suspicious.

"Someone is definitely hiding something behind here."

I went to touch it, when Link stopped me.

"I wouldn't," he warned. "You'll freeze instantaneously."

I quickly drew back and looked at Link surprised.

"Really?"

He nodded.

"It's happened to me a few times. Trust me it isn't a comfortable feeling. How I survived, I still don't know."

I instantly backed away. I certainly had a great deal more respect for Link regarding his adventures. The places he had been too were dangerous indeed. The hero then walked up next to me and continued studying the ice.

"What's so special about this ice in relation to the riddle?"

I needed to deduce that myself.

"This has to be the 'great potential,' and from what I'm a gathering with this fireplace, there must be a secret passage way behind it."

Link looked over the ice bolder.

"We're going to need a lot of hot spring water to melt this thing, and by the time we get it up here it will have been too cool to use."

I saw his point. I didn't consider that problem when I initially went over this riddle. Per my usual reference, I pulled out the Book of Mudora and looked up the laws of thermodynamics. I was thinking maybe I missed something when I read through the section the first time.

Thermo… thermo… is this a double entendre of some kind? A play on words somehow? What was I missing?

Link looked at me puzzled.

"What are you looking at there?"

I shook my head, trying to find something useful.

"I was attempting to see if these laws could help us in some way."

Link read the laws to himself.

"Hmm," he moaned thoughtfully, "does the temperature in the riddle have to be hot?"

My ears perked again when he inquired that. I looked at him attentively and contemplated what he said.

"That's a good question, and no… Thermo merely refers to temperature itself, not dictating whether something is hot or cold."

I looked back at the ice and noticed the blue tinged hue again.

Those blue particles trapped within the ice oscillate on a particular wave length… I tried to find another clue. Energy can neither be created nor destroyed only transformed… I rubbed my chin. For every action there is a reaction… free energy is entropic.

Suddenly, it came to me.

"Wait a minute."

Link crossed his arms over his chest.

"You've figured out something?"

I turned to look him straight in the eyes.

"What color cancels out blue?" I asked suddenly.

Link looked at me confused.

"What?"

I didn't expect him to grasp what I was suggesting right away.

"What color cancels out blue?" I repeated.

The hero looked at me bewildered.

"Red I think. I remember reading something about opposing colors canceling each other out in the light spectra from one of your books. Blue and red lights are natural antagonists, why?"

He just answered his own question without realizing it. I clasped my hands together and looked back at the bolder.

"You see all that blue trapped within the ice? Technically all it is, is particles of light. If we had some red light we could melt this bolder! It'll transform the ice to water. The red light will react to the blue particles and the dormant energy will be free! Freeing the potential, making the potential kinetic!"

Link stared at me astonished.

"Wow." He shook his head. "I never would have thought of it that way."

I smiled at him.

"I beg to differ, you just did."

However, our problem was not yet solved. Where were we going to capture red light? Link and I immediately started searching, looking for something, anything, that looked remotely red within the room. It couldn't be opaque and it couldn't be a structure that didn't reflect. Finally, Link caught sight of some broken pieces of stain glass underneath the bed. It was covered in snow. He dusted off the wet crystals and pulled it out from under the structure. From what was left of it, the glass looked like fragments of a soldier wearing a long red coat. The transparent glass still had some large pieces intact. I walked up to Link excitedly at his finding.

"This is perfect!" I then looked toward the window. "We can put this in the path of the sunlight near the window and aim it at the bolder."

We wasted no time doing just that. I knew we were going to have to aim for the center. That way the inside and the outside would melt evenly.

Like Falbi said, energy needs to be equal inside and outside in an enclosed space. In this case, the enclosed space is the ice bolder's shell itself.

Link and I worked quickly putting the stain glass over the window and reflected the red light on the center of the bolder. After a few minutes, it began to melt.

Thank Hylia!

I was excited, as the last remaining remnants of the bolder melted away, leaving behind a hollow opening in the wall. With our task completed, Link put the glass down and jumped from the large window pane. Afterwards, he helped me down while we hurried to the fireplace.

"The melted ice revealed a tunnel."

I was getting more excited.

"It's the womb! Come on!"

The tunnel was long and stretched for what seemed like miles. This was daunting. We were either going to end up in the Goron Mines or the edges of Dragon Roost. This was not going to be a short trip. In fact, it took Link and I two days to travel across the chasm. The bridge was made of stone and precious gems. The crossing closest to Snowpeak was made of limestone. As we traveled closer to Goron Mines, the bridge was made of luminous stones and more carbon rich gems like diamonds. This area was built in secret, but it was a magnificent feat in engineering. The dragon masters must have built this. It was the only logical way a bridge like this could be constructed.

We had to rest before we hit the second fork of the trek. It was hard resting against stone, but we managed. The following day we traveled across the most dangerous part of the crossing. We crossed over a large chasm where molten lava was gurgling at the bottom. The drop was over a hundred yards, and the internal temperature was well over forty-five degrees centigrade. I nearly passed out twice, and Link had to carry me for a swath of the journey. We finally made it out that dangerous crypt and was treated to some sunlight. There was a break in the mountain pass, and the fresh air was welcome. We scuttled across the final stretch of the stone bridge to save our feet. When we finally got outside, we rested. We sweated through our clothes and were grateful to make it through alive. I would never underestimate a dragon miners occupation again. Them, nor the Gorons. These conditions were brutal.

Link went to check on me.

"Are you alright?"

I nodded, still trying to catch my breath.

"I'll be okay."

We rested for a few more minutes then forged onward. Surprisingly, we found ourselves in a narrow cusp between the impasse of Dragon Roost and Death Mountain Trail. The narrow inlet curved into an alcove that was illuminating. I think we were here. This was it. Link and I were tired, but this had to be where we needed to be.

"It's just up ahead. We're here."

He then took my hand and we hurried down the path. I tried to match his stride.

"I think you're right."

My excitement reached an apex as we got closer.

'There is great potential in the cooling of the womb that actuates to a birthplace of fire.'

When we entered the opening, a small in cropping of rock was carved out of the mountain and glowing brightly. Link went up to the inlet without hesitation, expecting to grab hold of the glass, but instead he grabbed a hold of nothing. The aperture was empty.

"What the-?" he cut himself off surprised.

The glee I felt faded.

"What is it?" I asked anyway.

Link turned and looked at me stunned.

"There's nothing here!" he said in slight alarm. "The light's not shining off anything!"

He had to be joking.

"What?"

The hero then ran a hand over the space again.

"There isn't anything here!" he repeated.

He sounded more upset this time. I shook my head dumbfounded, not knowing what to say.

"It must be here!" I insisted. "It must!"

How in the-? Did I miscalculate somewhere? Did I pick the wrong location?

However, I thought of the only person who could of out maneuvered us first.

"Sheik! That bastard Sheik must have gotten here before we did!"

I thought Link was going to agree with me, but he didn't. He shook his head as I was overlooking something important in my accusation.

"I was thinking that myself, but the ice… The ice wouldn't have been solid if he had come the same way as we did. Someone had to have taken it from the outside coming in, but who else could have known about the mirror?"

That was a good question. We both got quiet, but I had a feeling we were both coming to the same conclusion. Link narrowed his eyes all of a sudden.

"Do you think…?"

I let my head fall back. I didn't want to utter it.

"Elbourne has it?" I finished for him. "I don't know. I would assume he might, or if not him one of his miners, but we need to know for certain."

Link raised a brow.

"And how are we going to do that?"

That was another good question. However, I didn't let it stop me.

"Where's the nearest guardian from here?"

The hero looked puzzled.

"In Eldin, why?"

I pursed my lips together.

Hylia told me to trust my instincts.

"We need to go there and ask Lord Eldin some questions. If Elbourne does have it, we need to ascertain his whereabouts."

~SSS~

Meanwhile in the kingdom of Dragon Roost, Prince Elbourne

I just returned home. I wasn't gone long, about four days roughly. But the mission my father sent me on required a certain amount of stamina. Some women needed more attention than others. Anything to keep the alliance intact. Anyway, I was in the middle of going over some correspondence when there was a sudden knock on my door. My personal attendant knew I didn't like to be disturbed when I was taking care of business, but this could have been important. I didn't bother to look up when I answered.

"You may enter." I assumed it was my servant.

The door opened, and I was right. From the other side came my servant Fortunado. He had been in my employ since before his beloved mother's death. His mother used to act as my governess. I gave her hell, but I actually loved her dearly. I couldn't ask for a more loyal personal attendant than Fortunado.

"My lord I don't mean to disturb you, but someone is here saying he found a rare treasure from his excavation in the mountains the other day."

I groaned and didn't even bother to acknowledge such nonsense.

"Tell him to go away. I'm busy."

However, Fortunado wasn't so quick to follow my command.

"I know you might find me untoward, but I really think you should take a look at what has been unearthed. It looks extraordinary. You might find it valuable your highness."

I stared at him for a moment. I put my letters down and sat back. I hated being disturbed for what usually turned out to be stupid endeavors. The peasants were such easily amused people. They thought every rock in the ground was a significant find. I raised a brow and inquired further.

"Is it really worth my time? Be honest."

Fortunado nodded.

"I think so."

I milled over his enthusiasm. Fortunado wasn't one to mince words. Perhaps this was something important. In a minute decision, I decided to entertain the poor peasant.

"Fine, whoever it is they have two minutes."

Fortunado nodded, looking pleased.

"Yes your highness," he then went out the door.

I hoped I wouldn't regret this. I wasn't the type of man to relish in ignorance. Even so, a moment later, a man covered in soot and wearing a cloak and a cape entered my chambers. I was surprised he didn't at least attempt to clean himself before seeing me. It would have shown some respect. He said he found the damned thing two days prior. Did he not have access to a hot spring? I guess it didn't matter. He only had a couple of minutes to impress me anyway. So far, that wasn't happening. The man bowed and my patience was wearing thin. I wasn't interested in pleasantries.

"You found something?" I got to the point.

The man looked nervous, but then opened his bag and pulled out a strange piece of glass. It was a shard of some kind with a golden brown, green, blue, and pink hued luminescence about it. It looked like the piece of a broken mirror. I had to admit, it was beautiful, but hardly the valuable treasure Fortunado was claiming. Not exactly what I was expecting for the fervor he put forth.

I looked at the man and then to the shard.

"Is that it?"

The man's eyes grew wide.

"Well... yes, but I've never seen anything like it. It was just hidden in a nook."

I groaned.

"I tell you what, I'll give you two hundred rupees for it and you've solved my problem in what I was going to donate to the Hyrulean Festival." I then turned to my servant. "Pay the man and send him on his way. Afterwards have that shard delivered to the festival committee."

Both men looked at me surprised at how brief I kept this matter. When they didn't move expediently, I had this to add.

"Do you want me to renege on this?" I warned.

The man offering the glass shook his head and quickly handed it to my servant. After receiving his monies, he was escorted out. Fortunado seemed a little disappointed that I didn't see the apparent value the way he did. He came back over to where I was sitting to address it.

"My lord I understand you're busy, but that was business."

I raised a brow.

"And I treated it as such."

Fortunado shook his head and groaned, then went to go wrap the mirror for transport.

"I understand your point, but I still think you were a little too presumptuous."

I grinned and didn't bother to answer. He was right in that regard. He often gave me insight to my hastiness. Fortunado had the glass packaged nicely and placed it in a box when he abruptly changed the subject to something I wasn't expecting.

"By the way, did you hear that Master Link of Hyrule got married? It was quite the chatter, even within the court."

I didn't pay very much attention right away, especially considering the subject matter.

"Why would I care about the private life of a peasant?"

Fortunado shrugged and finished wrapping the box.

"I thought it might interest you due to the queen's former relationship with him."

I wanted to forget that too. I still didn't understand why Zelda lowered her standards so much. What in Farore's name did she ever see in that man?

"It ended the way it should have with them."

My servant was quiet for a moment. I sensed he knew I gave more credence to my previous statement than I should have. Still, he let the matter go for another.

"Well, then did you hear about what happened in Zora's Domain?"

I was rereading my letter and thought to start again. It didn't seem to flow right. Fortunado barely had my attention now.

"Why would I care about the Zoras? I just got back a few days ago."

Fortunado shook his head.

"This has to do with the queen," he disclosed. "She was seen in Zora's Domain a few days prior."

My ears perked immediately when I heard that. I paused and looked over at him. Now I was intrigued.

"Come again?"

There was a slight grin that crossed my servants face at my tone. He knew how to garner my attention.

"I heard the queen was in Zora's Domain and while she was there a ruckus started. There was some attempt on her life."

I was stunned hearing this.

An attempt on her life?

"Where did you hear this?"

He shrugged.

"I overheard your father talking about it. That's why I was wondering if you knew anything already."

I was mildly amused at his new found information.

"I thought she was in Balaam."

He lowered his voice.

"I thought so too, until I realized your father received word from King Ralis himself. He received a correspondence yesterday."

That certainly added credence to what he was saying.

"Really?"

He nodded.

"Yes, really."

Suddenly, I was very interested in what else my servant might know.

"Since I've been out of the loop, why don't you tell me what else I've been missing?"

Fortunado nodded.

"Of course my lord. What would you like to hear?"

I leaned forward on my table, keenly interested.

"Everything my good man, everything."

Thank you for reading.