The Hero's Path

by LuxDragon

A retelling and reimagining of Breath of the Wild with Age of Calamity elements added. Will be AU eventually. Pre-Calamity.

12. Complications

Central Hyrule – Mabe Village

Link took a step back and waited patiently as his sister lay sprawled out on her back atop the grassy lawn.

"Ow," Aryll muttered. Still, her spirit had not diminished in the slightest, and she stood back up after yet another loss.

Link approached her with two wooden swords, one in each hand. As soon as Aryll was up, he handed her practice weapon back to her.

"Better," Link said.

Aryll grumbled. "Am I ever going to beat you?"

"Once or twice, maybe," Link said bluntly, "but it's not about beating me; it's about learning. You're always going to lose to me, and it will probably stay that way for years, if not always. The difference is how you lose. If you're losing to something new, it means you've learned from your previous losses. Remember, you're not trying to win, you're—"

"—trying to improve," Aryll finished. She took a deep, heaving breath.

"Still sore?" Link asked.

Aryll nodded. "I can handle it."

Link nodded back and readied his sword. "Again."

It had been almost a month since news that Mipha was chosen to be the final pilot of the Divine Beasts had reached him. The formal announcement would be declared at a later date, one yet to be determined. Presently, Princess Zelda's fifteenth birthday was coming in two days, and all four pilots and Link had been invited to attend.

For now, any mission Link was given was simple, rarely lasting a few days before he was home, just like how his father had worked when he had been in the Royal Guard. Occasionally, Link would strike out on his own and travel to various regions, usually clearing out monster camps to keep his skills sharp. Other times, he was training Aryll. He had asked Liena for advice on how to train Aryll so he wouldn't go soft on his sister, but not train her to the point of harm. Liena had created a schedule that Link adhered to that left Aryll tired and sore all the time, but not quite close to her breaking point.

To Marin's consternation, Aryll's desire to become a knight hadn't diminished at all. Worse still, she had the same spunk Link had had when he had been training. Link confided to his mother that while the training he was giving Aryll was modified from his own, it didn't make it any less physically demanding, yet Aryll had yet to complain or beg for a day off.

Link blinked back into the present and sidestepped. A missed stab, and he casually struck Aryll's flank, causing her to grunt and disengage.

"That's enough for today," Link said. "Limits, not injury."

"Got it," Aryll wheezed out.

"Remember to eat your fill and get plenty of sleep," Link said. "It's the best way for your body to recover."

"I remember," Aryll said. She took a deep, cleansing breath, winced a bit at the action, and took his wooden sword. She was still nursing her bruises as she walked to the shed to put their practice weapons away.

When she came back out, Link was practicing with a wooden shield. He was either pushing it out or waving it upwards in a kind of flapping motion.

"What are you doing?" Aryll asked. She picked up her bow and quiver.

"Just trying something I've been working on and off for a while," Link muttered. "Still haven't gotten it right, but I know I'm close."

"Come on, it's lunchtime," Aryll said. "I'm supposed to eat my fill, and we need to clean ourselves up."

"Right, right," Link said. He handed her the wooden shield as well.

Aryll was looking at the road as she took the shield and waved. "Hey, it's Liena!"

Turning around, Link saw his former mentor riding in at a brisk pace. "Hmm, I thought her next patrol to Mabe was next week. It should be Dame Karane."

"Maybe she wants something?" Aryll asked.

Link nodded. "Maybe. Finish cleaning up. Let Mother know we'll have a guest for lunch. I'll be in momentarily."

Aryll opened her mouth to argue but changed her mind at the last moment and settled for nodding. She packed up their equipment and tottered off.

Link patiently waited as Liena approached, left Zephyria with Romani, and walked up to him.

"Hi, Liena," Link said. "What brings you by today?"

"I need your help," Liena said. "I really, really need your help."

"Big monster camp? A Hinox? Lynel? Bandits? All of the above at the same time?" Link rattled off.

Liena's mouth opened slightly before she shook her head. "Personal, not professional."

Link arched an eyebrow. "Okay…"

"What?" Liena asked in mild indignation. "What's with that look?"

"No look," Link said. "This is my face. There's no look."

Liena narrowed her eyes and scrutinized him. "There's a look."

"Just your imagination."

Liena heaved a sigh. "Will you help me?"

"Sure, anything," Link immediately replied. "It has to be important if you're here instead of Karane. Did you swap patrol routes for today?"

"Yes. And I had to trade a few favors to get her to do it, too," Liena said. "Link, you know the princess's birthday is coming up in two days."

"I know," Link said. "I'm not sure if I was invited or ordered to attend, but I do know the other pilots will be there. It'll be the first time we're all going to meet together at once. I think the king is using the event to bring us all to one place to introduce ourselves and see how we behave."

"Sounds about right," Liena said. "My family and I have been invited, too. Look… um… I… uh…"

When she faltered and looked away, Link tilted his head. "What?"

Liena was furiously blushing now. "I need a date. I need you to be my date."

Unlike Liena, Link remained painfully stoic. It was a skill he had perfected since his time among the Sheikah, with further reinforcement from all the attention he had received since news of his appointment as the legendary hero. "Me?"

Liena coughed and cleared her throat. She was still avoiding eye contact. "Look, my mother has been pressuring me lately to 'meet' with some 'friends' of hers… I'm not really interested in any of them. However, with such a big event coming up, I'm almost required to bring a date. I was wondering if… um…"

"I'd save you?" Link finished.

"Yes, if you'd like to put it that way," Liena replied. She took a deep breath and finally got her embarrassment and blush under control. When she looked at him, her eyes widened in realization. "Oh, wait, do you have a date already? I don't want you to alter your plans to help me."

"I do—"

"I mean, you are very famous now," Liena rambled on. "And the talk around Castle Town keeps mentioning how fetching you look—"

"Wait, what?" Link asked. His control over himself almost—almost—broke, but he held on to his stoicism.

"You didn't know?" Liena asked, surprised.

"I haven't been to Castle Town for some time," Link admitted. "Either I'm out doing my own patrols, training Aryll and Romani, studying, or practicing my forms. I was planning on going to the party with my family. We've all been invited. It'll be our first high-function event, not counting my knighthood."

"Oh," Liena mumbled. "But you just said you had a date?"

Link shook his head. "I was about to say that I do not have a date."

"Oh."

"I don't mind going with you," Link said. "You'll need to show us how to behave, of course."

Liena rolled her eyes. "Just follow your etiquette training, and you'll be fine. Oh, and your… um… dancing lessons…"

Coming to the same conclusion as her, Link realized that it was extremely likely that they would have to dance together to fend off any unwanted attention… for either of them.

"Right," Link muttered. "I think I still remember. It was a good idea for Master Impaz to teach me how to dance. I might need a refresher, though."

Liena smiled, which quickly changed to a smirk. "I can manage that. But if you step on my feet, you're running a lap around Mabe Village."

"Ha-ha."

Liena took a fortifying breath. "Thanks, Link. I can't tell you how much I appreciate you helping me out like this."

Link faintly smirked. "Well… if you want to pay me back, Mother and Aryll could use some new dresses."

"Deal," Liena said at once.

"Come on in," Link said. "You can explain yourself over lunch."

Liena balked a bit when she realized that she needed to tell Marin of her plans. "Could you tell them to be kind to me?"

"You're on your own," Link said. "I think I've filled my quota of saving you already."

"Some hero you are," Liena retorted.

They shared a laugh as they walked up to Link's home.

~o~O~o~

"Oh, you poor thing," Marin said to Liena after their guest explained her current problems in her home life. Marin smiled at Link, though there was something in her expression that he couldn't identify.

It sent a small chill down his spine that he resolutely ignored.

Aryll looked thoughtful. "Do I need a date?"

"No," Link and Marin said at the same time and in the same tone.

Aryll pouted.

Liena laughed. "Well, he's doing me a big favor."

"It's possible you're doing him a favor as well," Marin said thoughtfully. "Who knows what kind of trouble he might attract if he attended without a date?"

Link was confused. "What do you mean?"

"Oh, you sweet, naïve hero," Liena dramatically said. She looped her arm around his and shook him in his chair. "Don't worry, I'll protect you."

"I don't get it," Link mumbled. Since she was teasing him by seizing his left arm, he was able to continue eating lunch with his right without trouble.

Liena let him go and clapped her hands. "Right, I need to take the Faron ladies for a spa day tomorrow, as well as dress fittings. This will be your first high-function event that's filled to the brim with some of the most entitled people in Hyrule. You'll need to look the part!"

Aryll cheered, while Marin looked a bit flustered.

"Oh, Liena, you don't need to," Marin said.

"I want to," Liena said. "Believe me, it's no trouble at all."

"Let's go, Mother," Aryll said. "I could really use it after all my training."

Sighing, Marin folded under the pressure. "What time were you thinking?"

"Early morning would be best," Liena said thoughtfully. "I'm sure my mother would like to join us. We'll need as much daylight as we can use."

"Sounds exhausting," Link mumbled. "I'll just go for a ride around Hyrule Field tomorrow, then."

Liena shot him an evil grin. "Oh, but Link… we'll need someone to carry our packages!"

"Pass."

"It'll be fun!"

"No."

Aryll piped up. "You could stand to be cleaned up a little bit, too, Link. At least a haircut. You're letting your hair grow so long!"

Marin tilted her head. "Actually, that length used to bother me, but I've grown to like it recently."

"Hmm…" Liena turned in her chair to scrutinize Link. He bore it stoically.

"Actually, Aryll, I kind of like it, too," Liena finally said. "I think I should tie it behind you, though."

Without waiting for permission, Liena stood up, circled behind Link, and started tugging and gathering the longest locks of his hair. Aryll produced a piece of string and handed it to Liena, who used it to fashion a ponytail. This annoyed Link slightly, since he had to stop eating to allow her to manhandle him.

"When did this become about me?" Link asked to no one in particular. "I thought we were talking about Liena."

"That conversation has run its course," Liena said matter-of-factly. "Now it's all about you."

"That sounds boring," Link retorted. "Talking about you is much more interesting."

He couldn't see Liena's teasing smirk, since she was standing behind him, but he did squawk when she suddenly hugged him from behind. "Aw, Link, you really do know how to compliment a lady! All of our training has paid off! I'm so proud of you!"

Link was really glad he managed to hold on to his self-control, especially when his family started laughing. Still, it was nice to have life return to their home.

Even if it was at his expense.

~o~O~o~

The next day, and despite their best efforts, Link adamantly refused to join Liena, Aryll, and Marin on their spa day. Furthermore, he also reminded them that the soldiers that were assigned to accompany them were there to protect them, not carry packages. Liena had supported Link on that front and agreed.

"They need their hands free in the event of trouble," Liena had explained. "Their job is security, not comfort."

Instead, Link spent the day at Lon Lon Ranch, where he let Epona fuss over her foals. Malon had greeted the mare enthusiastically but seemed more reserved when speaking to him.

Link had thought he'd done something to offend her when Malon mumbled, "I like what you've done with your hair."

Link could only nod to her compliment and turned his attention back to the foals, hoping to avoid any further awkwardness.

When his family returned later that evening, Aryll gushed about how much fun she'd had, with Marin echoing her sentiments. In their arms were boxes that held their purchases. Link kindly relieved them of their burdens and dropped them off in their respective rooms.

"You both look good," Link said when he returned to the living room.

Aryll was gently touching the curls of her hair. "It took a bit of time, but they did some amazing work."

"Too bad it's coming apart the day after the party," Link said dryly. "Training resumes."

"Shush, Link," Aryll said. "Let me have this moment."

Link chuckled. "Well, at least you're ready for the party, then."

"Which is more than what we can say for you," Aryll said before sticking out her tongue.

Marin lightly whacked her on the shoulder and shook her head. "It's dinnertime. We brought food home. Clean yourselves up now."

As the siblings washed up, Link said, "I was kidding a little bit, by the way. We'll do more horseback riding lessons instead. Full gallop."

"Really?!" Aryll asked, hopeful.

"Really," Link answered. "We'll skip swords… for one day."

Aryll stared at him before sighing. "Well, I guess I should take what I can get."

~o~O~o~

Central Hyrule – Hyrule Castle

On the day of the festivities, the Farons—mainly Marin and Aryll—worked all morning to make themselves presentable, while Link merely bathed and ensured his Royal Guard uniform was cleaned, pressed, and ironed. After eating a light lunch, they were prepared to go to Hyrule Castle by midafternoon. A carriage provided by King Rhoam had been sent to retrieve them. To avoid wrinkling his uniform, Link opted to ride in the carriage instead of riding Epona to Hyrule Castle. Link found himself extremely self-conscious as he, Marin, and Aryll all traveled from Mabe Village to the castle in an ivory-white carriage that had the crest of the royal family proudly displayed on the sides.

Aryll found the experience to be extremely novel. Dressed in a pale-blue dress, with light makeup—done by their mother—and wearing some small earrings, a necklace, and bracelets, she declared that she felt like a princess as they rode to Castle Town. They even had guards on horseback riding alongside them.

"It feels a bit lavish," Marin said. She touched the velvet cushions and reveled in their softness. "Link? You've been quiet."

"I'm fine," Link said.

"Nervous?" Aryll teased.

Link slowly shook his head. "Just thinking, but it's not the appropriate time. We should enjoy ourselves tonight."

"Oh, come now, Link," Marin said. "You know you can always speak to us."

Under his mother's relentless stare, Link sighed. "I was just thinking about Father; about what he would think about this, about us, and about me."

Link looked away when the carriage fell quiet.

"I did say it wasn't appropriate," he mumbled.

Marin, who was seated next to Aryll, got up and sat down next to him. She took him into her arms and held him close. "He'd be proud of how far you've come."

"I just wish he was here," Link said. "I would ask how to handle the stares, or the questions, or the attention."

Marin squeezed him more tightly. "He'd tell you to be strong. To handle it with discipline, strength, and honor."

Link took a deep breath and hugged his mother back. "You're right."

"And to look after your sister," Marin said, half-serious, half-joking.

Link lightly chuckled and felt his spirits lift a bit while Aryll beamed.

"I wish we could've brought Midna to the party," Aryll said thoughtfully.

Link wryly smiled. "I don't think wolves would be welcome."

Marin could only sigh as her children bickered over the logistics of bringing Midna to a royalty-hosted event.

They fell silent when they beheld Hyrule Castle. In honor of Princess Zelda's birthday, Hyrule Castle and the surrounding grounds were extravagantly decorated. Decorative flora were strategically placed to provide life and vibrant color, while torches were pre-lit in anticipation of the evening hours, as well as subtly showing the scale and breadth of Hyrule's highest governing power.

"Link, will we get to meet the royal family?" Aryll asked excitedly.

Link nodded. "At the very least, I imagine we will need to present ourselves and wish the princess well. And I have to meet with the other pilots, so if you'd like to come, you can."

Aryll's excitement was barely contained, to the point where she was constantly fidgeting in her seat as their carriage bypassed the long line of carriages filled with Hyrule's most influential, wealthy, and noble families; courtesy of the royal carriage they were arriving in, they were allowed to go right to the front door, rather than the gates. Link detachedly observed the long line of various carriages they were passing until a familiar crest of a stag and twin mountains caught his eye.

He popped his head out of the window. "Stop the carriage."

The coachman brought the horses to a stop and put on the brake.

"Link?" Marin asked.

"It's Liena and her family," Link said. "We might as well see if they would like to ride with us instead of waiting. Stay here, I'll be right back."

Link hopped out and approached the Serlut carriage.

Leon opened the door and smiled widely. "Ah, if it isn't our knight in fine wool and soft leather armor! Come to save us, have you?"

Link faintly smiled and resisted the urge to smooth out his uniform, which he believed was still immaculate. As far as formal clothes went, the Royal Guard uniform was the most expensive thing he had ever put on. It consisted of a deep-red wool tunic, fine black leather pants, covered with a deep-blue surcoat trimmed with yellow that proudly bore the royal insignia upon his chest. He also wore long, white leather gloves that covered his forearms and white, knee-high leather boots—all top-quality leather, too—which was topped off with a cap also dyed in the same shade of blue as the surcoat. The Master Sword was settled on his hip—rather than its customary place on his back—which completed the ensemble.

"From boredom, perhaps," Link said. "I know I said we would meet at the entrance, but this is close enough. Would you like to share our carriage?"

Before Leon could speak, he was unceremoniously pushed out of the carriage. Link subtly had to swallow to retain moisture in his throat.

The first reason was Liena. She looked positively radiant in her dark-purple dress as she accepted Link's assistance and exited the carriage—he had offered his hand subconsciously. As long as Link had known Liena, she usually applied some makeup, kept her hair both fashionable and functional, and usually wore small earrings to show pride in her personal appearance. Next to her, there were times Link felt like a slob, but he was usually undergoing harsh physical training, so he overlooked it. Tonight, Liena had gone all-out, causing Link to do everything he could to maintain mental acuity, lest he embarrass himself in front of the onlookers.

The other reason was Astoria. Her predatory gaze was so sharp that Link almost felt threatened enough to draw the Master Sword.

"Thank you, Link," Liena said, smiling. "You honor us with such a gallant offer."

Link arched an eyebrow and nodded. "Lord and Ladies Serlut, please, this way."

Remembering his etiquette lessons, Link offered his hand once more, and Liena played along. Leon held his wife's arm, and they all made their way to the waiting carriage. Leon gave a signal to his coachman to leave the queue and ride back to Castle Town.

"Ah, Lady Marin and Lady Aryll," Leon said. This time, he was speaking normally, less flamboyantly. Likely he was serious right now. "Once again, it is a pleasure to see you both. How are you faring this evening?"

"I'm doing well," Aryll said, all smiles. "It's been exciting so far!"

"As well as one could hope," Marin said. "And yourself?"

After helping his wife enter the carriage, Leon pulled himself up and sat next to her. "One cannot complain if one is happy."

Seeing what Leon did, Link also helped Liena into the carriage in a similar fashion. Liena sat next to her parents, but before Link could sit across from her, she subtly pulled at his arm and had him sit next to her instead. Link opted not to say anything. Instead, he thumped the side of the carriage and signaled the coachman to resume the short trek to the front door.

When they were underway, Leon said, "Your son is a too gracious. Security has been increased around the castle, and all are subject to a minor search, hence the line of carriages."

Marin grew concerned. "Any specific reason why?"

Leon shrugged. "His Majesty cares very deeply about his daughter. She is the only living heir to the throne, after all. Plus, she has a role to play in the—and in this I pray to the great goddesses—the far, far future."

"Ah, but that is droll," Astoria said. "We are invited guests, and as such, the privacy, sanctity, and safety of the royal family has been opened to us. It is their right to be cautious. What interests me are the pilots of the Divine Beasts. You are to meet them this evening, correct, Link?"

"That's correct," Link quietly answered. Now Link realized why Liena had him sit next to her: she acted as a physical barrier between him and her mother, with the added advantage of having a legitimate reason to avoid eye contact. Astoria was far too impeccable in her manners to do something as crass as leaning over or leaning forward to address him directly.

He glanced at Liena, who squeezed his arm and shot him a subtle wink.

"I understand that you know two of them quite well," Leon said. "The mighty Daruk and Her Royal Highness Princess Mipha, yes?"

"Daruk was one of my trainers, and I learned alongside and eventually taught Mipha the trident," Link answered. "We've remained good friends."

"You are not well-acquainted with the other two, however?" Astoria asked.

Link shook his head but realized they wouldn't be able to see him. "My first real meeting with Revali was during the Four Swords, and I may have seen Urbosa in the spectator stands, but I could also be mistaken."

Despite it being a breach of manners, Leon leaned forward so that he could look Link in the eyes. "Beware, my boy. I understand Revali took his loss quite personally. Like you, that was his debut in the Four Swords. He is not the kind of man that takes a loss well, particularly to one so young."

"What can I expect?" Link asked.

"Personal attacks, snide remarks, and other insinuations that are designed to attack your credibility, your competency, and even your suitability as the hero," Leon said seriously. "Whether nobles wish to admit it or not, it's the exact same kind of political grandstanding we employ amongst ourselves. My advice is this: do not engage on the same level as he. We know your worth, so do not let him redefine it."

"Father is right," Liena said comfortingly. "Let him have his grudge, but since you will be working together, it might be best to let him air out his grievances. Eventually, he will run out of hot air to blow and will focus on his responsibilities."

Link nodded.

The carriage stopped at the massive doors leading into the castle. One of the servants promptly opened the carriage door before Link could and grandly gestured towards the main entrance.

Link stepped out, offered his hand to Liena, then Aryll, and finally Marin.

Leon was next, before assisting Astoria.

"Wow," Aryll said. She was gingerly stepping on top of the red carpet laid out for them. "It's so soft."

Leon chuckled. "There will be many delights that await you inside. Never fear, Lady Aryll. I will volunteer Link to secure you some fruitcake."

"What?" Link asked.

"Really?!" Aryll asked.

"Her Highness's favorite," Leon said. "I can assure you that there will be an abundance of fruitcake served this evening. We shall have our fill."

Aryll cheered happily and almost skipped into the castle. Marin sedately followed after, intent on making sure that Aryll ate more than just sweets.

Link offered his arm to Liena. She took it with a small smile, and they walked in after them. The guards intended to search the Serlut patriarch and matriarch, but Link waved them off. They nodded and returned to their posts.

"Link, you have free rein around the castle as a member of the Royal Guard, correct?" Liena asked. "Perhaps you might show me around the areas that are usually closed off to the public?"

Link nodded and led the way, taking a side door after nodding at the guards that were posted there.

Once they were out of earshot, Liena heaved a sigh of relief. "Light, that was stifling."

"I don't think I've heard you so formal before, not even during my knighting," Link said. "Really? 'Gallant'?"

Liena rolled her eyes. "You're one to talk. You're so stiff, one might assume your spine was replaced with a steel rod."

Link scoffed. "Did you really want me to show you around?"

"Hmm… that was an excuse, but now that we're here…" Liena looked around and grinned. "Why not? I may never get the chance to see the castle like this again."

Link dropped her arm and looked around, too. "Hopefully, we won't get lost. I have a good idea of the castle layout now, but there are still places I haven't explored thoroughly yet."

"We'll stick with what you know, then, but even getting lost has its appeal," Liena said. "Shall we?"

They spent the next twenty minutes or so walking, with Link acting like a tour guide, though that title would be too generous in his opinion.

They had just exited the library when they heard a voice shout, "Hey! No guests allowed in this area!"

Liena looked guilty, while Link kept his calm. He turned to the source of the voice and gave Impa a small wave. "Afternoon, Impa. It's me."

Impa blinked. She walked up to Link and peered into his face before gasping. A quick glance at the Master Sword only confirmed it. "Oh, it is you! Wow, you look so different."

"You look lovely yourself," Link replied.

Blushing slightly from his compliment, Impa shyly turned side-to-side, showing off her traditional Sheikah formalwear. "Well, I rarely get a chance to wear this."

"And yet, you're still armed," Link said.

Impa smirked. "Always."

Link cleared his throat. "Liena, this is Impa, royal advisor and Master Impaz's granddaughter and Purah's younger sister. Impa, this is Dame Sortiliena Serlut. I served under her as her squire."

"Liena, please."

"Pleasure," Impa said. They informally shook hands before Impa gave Liena a once-over. "You must be something special to have been the one selected to teach Link."

"It was an experience, I admit," Liena said. "But I'm not really all that special, at least not in comparison."

Impa started tapping her chin. "Serlut… Serlut… I know I've heard the name before… wait, the noble house?"

Liena nodded. "That's us."

Impa smiled cattily. "You're not acting like most nobles I've met."

"You're not acting like a royal advisor," Liena retorted playfully.

Impa bonked her head and stuck out her tongue. "You got me."

"I was just giving Liena a bit of a tour of the castle before we join the festivities properly," Link said.

"And letting the halls fill up so you can hide in the crowds," Impa said knowingly.

"We also got to go through a side door and avoided the herald entirely, so no one will know that Link has arrived," Liena added.

"Hide in plain sight. It was one of Master Impaz's favorite techniques," Link said.

"Don't I know it," Impa said, laughing. She gave Liena another once-over. "So how did you end up training Link?"

Both Liena and Link shared an uncomfortable look. Still, Link indicated with his eyes that Liena could tell Impa.

"I served under Sir Revan as his squire," Liena said, keeping her voice steady and even. "After I became a knight and when Link began showing his talents, Sir Revan tasked me with overseeing Link's training."

"Oh," Impa said.

"And we've been together since," Link said, keeping to the present.

"O-oh," Impa said again. This time, there was a blush on her cheeks as she looked between them uncertainly.

Liena blinked once before a furious blush appeared on her cheeks, too. "L-L-Link!"

Link blinked at them in confusion. "What?"

Liena could only groan in response.

~o~O~o~

"How is Master Impaz?" Link asked. The trio were walking the hallways of the castle, staying out of the way of the servants scurrying back and forth. They kept their pace slow, since none of them were in a rush to mingle in the crowds.

"Doing well," Impa answered. "She's here, along with most of the Sheikah that could make the journey, to honor the princess."

"You mean the goddess," Link said.

Impa shrugged. "Same difference."

" 'Goddess'?" Liena asked.

"Long story. I can tell you later, if you're interested," Impa said. "So, what brings you two back here… o-oh… um… wait…"

"No, nothing like that!" Liena said, just one octave away from a shout.

"I told you, I was giving Liena a tour," Link said calmly. "Just a few extra areas the general public don't get to see normally."

"Oh, okay," Impa said. "Wait, so does that mean you don't have a date? That won't do!"

"What?" Link asked, once again confused. "I'm—"

Impa sidled up and grabbed his left arm. "Don't worry, I'll pretend to be your date. The last thing you want are noble families trying to get their claws into you."

"Actually—" Link tried to say.

"—he's my date for the evening," Liena said, and she nabbed his right arm.

Link was at a loss for words.

"Aw," Impa said, pouting. She didn't let go, however.

Why me?

And so it was, Link found himself dragged down the halls of Hyrule Castle, with no destination in particular, and his arms seized as if he was a prisoner. He stubbornly ignored how attractive his escorts were.

"We should get to the main hall," Liena eventually said. "Events such as this, I have to be seen by my peers."

"Being a noble must be hard," Impa said.

"It's not easy," Liena replied. "Commoners will think rupees make things better. It's never that simple. Rupees often bring a new set of complications."

"Like what?" Link asked, interested.

"Commoners are usually focused on basic needs: food, clean water, and shelter," Liena replied. "Important things that are always a necessity and, sometimes, in short supply. They see the homes and food that nobles have and covet that, as if that's all there is to be noble. Instead, once the basic needs are met, we move on to the next stage: maintaining status. If a noble house falters, expect other houses to swoop in like vultures and take that house apart. As my father told you, that's the 'game' we play, and it's a disgusting one."

"So… you have to contend with attacks from other houses?" Link asked.

"Nothing as overt as what you're thinking," Liena said. "Trouble can make itself known in all manner of ways; political, financial, betrayal… these days, it's rare for nobles to come to blows, but that just means they have to be more creative in destroying other houses. This is why you often see nobles trying to gain more status, rupees, and alliances."

"To defend yourselves," Impa said.

Liena nodded.

"That… that is bad," Link mumbled.

Liena nodded again. "You and your family have it best, I think. Not quite commoner, but not noble, either."

"I've never thought about it," Link admitted.

Liena smiled. "Which only proves my point."

"Huh, I think I'm beginning to get an idea of why you were Link's primary trainer," Impa said.

They entered the main hall through another side door. Link could see the main entrance herald, announcing every noble family that entered. He looked around to see where his family had gone to when Impa shook him excitedly.

She finally let him go and waved. "Ah, there's Gram. And Purah, too."

"We should say hi," Link said.

"Oh, definitely," Liena said. "Let's go."

Impa grinned wickedly and grabbed his arm again. She fairly dragged him—and by extension, Liena—as she easily navigated the ever-increasing crowds of people.

"Gram, look who I found," Impa said.

Impaz turned around, and when she saw who it was, she smiled. She was dressed in garments Link hadn't seen before, but they looked almost spiritual. He wasn't an expert on religious iconography by any means, but he was certain he was looking at symbolic depictions of the Goddess Hylia.

"Well, well, well," Impaz said. She put both of her hands on the top of her cane and offered one of her wide, toothy grins. "Link and Serlut. My, my, aren't you cozy?"

Link eyed the old woman and shook his head. Liena was still clinging to his arm, playing up the idea that he was her date for the evening. "Funny."

Next to the Sheikah elder, Purah was dressed similarly to her sister, Impa. The fabric they wore was shimmering and slightly flowing, with the sides cut so that to casual onlookers, it would show off their legs. To Link's mind, it allowed full freedom of movement and access to their hidden weapons if the occasion arose. While Impa had chosen an off-white for her dress, Purah had gone with a straight silver.

Purah lifted her drink to her lips as she looked around. "I didn't hear Link's name called… Did you ask the herald to let you in incognito?"

Impa shook her head. "Found them wandering the castle. They slipped into the restricted area. Link likely pulled rank on the poor guards."

"And now you have two lovely ladies on your arms at what might be your first high-society function," Impaz said, dry humor laced in every word. "It's good to see that fame hasn't changed you."

Link heaved a sigh. "Are you done yet?"

Impaz cackled at Link's predicament. "Well, at the very least, be sure to save a dance for Impa. You can show off how much you've learned."

Link made a face. "I remember my lessons. All of them."

"And if he doesn't, he's going to run laps around Mabe Village for every mistake," Liena said. She put out her right leg and showed off her shoes. "I happen to like these heels."

Again, Impaz cackled.

Impa giggled, too. "Did he have to run to the bridge when he was training with you?"

Link hung his head and sighed.

"Don't be so quick to tease him, Impa," the Sheikah elder said. "I recall you having to run quite a number of times yourself, while Purah only had to run one lap."

"And you know, sis, I seem to recall how you said you'd get dancing faster than me because you've trained more in the Sheikah arts," Purah said snidely.

Impa scowled. "So I had an off day!"

Purah smirked. "Mm-hmm. Link, if you want to partner up later to experience real dancing, save me a spot on your card."

"It's good to see you, too, Purah," Link said. "How's Robbie?"

"Ask him yourself," Purah said. She turned to the man next to her. "Robbie, it's Link!"

Robbie, who had his back to Link as he was sampling the various delicacies laid out before him, turned around. His wild mane of white hair was now slicked back and tamed, though for some reason, he was still wearing those ridiculous goggles, though they were pulled up onto his head. He was dressed in an upscale tunic with a white surcoat—that almost had the feel of his researcher's coat—along with a pair of polished brown boots.

Robbie grinned widely and stood straight. "Aha! Link! It's been far too long!"

"It has," Link said, smiling back. He was tempted to ask about the Guardians but refrained, knowing that the man wouldn't be able to stop for who-knew-how long, and then there would likely be an argument with Purah, which would draw eyes upon them…

Instead, Link said, "I'm glad to see you're well."

"You as well," Robbie said. He put down his plate, wiped his hands with a napkin, stood straighter, and cleared his throat. "A lot has happened to you over the last year. I'm glad to see you have the courage to bear it all."

"I'm doing my best," Link said.

"With you? Your best is more than enough," Robbie said. "Our only wish is that our efforts will help you and our dear princess in some meaningful way."

Purah raised her glass. "Hear, hear."

The sound of a lyre being tuned drew Link's attention, and he turned to see another well-dressed Sheikah plucking at the strings and gently turning the knobs.

"He looks familiar," Link said.

Impa tilted her head. "Oh, that's Misko."

"Who is that?" Link asked.

"A bard," Impa answered. "Not the best, in my humble opinion, but he tries hard."

Link nodded. "I must have seen him at Kakariko, I guess."

"You did," Liena said. "I heard him play a few times during dinner. Not bad at all."

"Link, there you are!" Aryll called out. She was weaving around the people towards him, with Marin following closely behind in her wake.

"Hi," Link said. "Mother, Aryll, you remember Impa, yes?"

"Oh, hello again, Impa!" Aryll said brightly.

"Impa, it's lovely to see you again," Marin added.

"Hello, Aryll. Marin," Impa said. "I hope you're doing well?"

"We are," Marin said. Aryll nodded.

Impa studied them from head to toe and grinned. "Well, you both are radiant sights."

Marin brushed her dark-red dress a bit and smiled. "Thank you. You're looking lovely as well."

"This is Master Impaz, Impa's grandmother and my Sheikah trainer," Link said.

Marin bowed, while Aryll curtsied.

"It's an honor to meet you, Master Impaz," Marin said. "My son has said nothing but kind things about you."

"Well, not all kind," Aryll said wickedly.

"Respectful at the very least," Marin was quick to say while nudging Aryll warningly.

Impaz chortled. "I don't doubt it."

"Link said he was going to train me in some Sheikah techniques, too," Aryll said.

"Oh-ho, is that right?" Impaz asked. She was studying Aryll with a critical eye. "And what has he said about our ways?"

"That it's going to be hard… that it's nothing like I've tried before," Aryll said uncertainly. She was a bit intimidated by the level of scrutiny she was under.

Impaz cracked a smile. "Well, that's some of it."

"It's under consideration," Link mumbled. "She's not there yet."

"Why the interest in our ways, though?" Impaz asked.

"I want to be a knight," Aryll said, all traces of her earlier humor gone.

Impaz arched a weathered eyebrow. "Well, it seems courage runs strongly in your family."

"Do you think I could be a good knight?" Aryll asked.

Impaz only offered a half-shrug. "It is not my place to say, child. I have not seen your talents, and our ways are not like the Hylian Knights'. Your brother studied under me because he was interested in broadening his talents and because I like him, not because of his desire to be a knight."

"Oh. Okay."

Thankfully, at least in Link's mind, any further talk about Aryll's plans to be a knight were put aside when the herald announced the Zora Royal Family's arrival. Link quickly turned to the entrance and saw Mipha enter alongside her father.

"Would you like to meet Mipha?" Link asked his sister and mother.

"Definitely," Aryll said.

"Very much so," Marin said.

Impaz waved at him. "Go on ahead. You must learn to enjoy yourself whenever possible. The responsibility you bear necessitates it."

Link smiled. "I'll take your lesson to heart."

"Smart boy."

Impa remained with her family, so Link led his family as well as Liena towards Mipha and King Dorephan.

"Link," Mipha said happily when he was within earshot.

"Mipha," Link said, smiling. "You look lovely tonight."

Mipha blushed a bit but smiled back. "Thank you. You look very dashing yourself."

Link smiled, though he knew it was a bit strained. "I also heard the news. I'm not sure if I should congratulate you or not, though."

Mipha eyed Link knowingly. "Princess Zelda told us that you put my name forward as Vah Ruta's pilot."

"I trust you, and I know you'll do right by your people and Hyrule," Link said. He took a deep breath and faced King Dorephan. "I apologize for any grief I may have caused, Your Majesty."

King Dorephan's gaze on Link was unreadable. Eventually, he said, "You made the decision you could. I confess, I do not like the idea of my daughter being put in harm's way, but I say that as a father. As a king, I know that responsibility will force our hand, whether we like it or not. It is why we traditionally train in the trident; in the event that we must answer a call to arms, then we shall do so. I do not begrudge you of your decision."

"It did take some convincing for Father to give his blessing," Mipha quietly said.

Link solemnly nodded. Clearing his throat, he turned to his sister. "Aryll, this is Her Highness Princess Mipha and His Majesty King Dorephan. Mipha, Your Majesty, this is my sister, Aryll."

"Hello, Aryll," Mipha said. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you. Your father spoke of you with great fondness."

"Hello, Your Highness," Aryll said before dropping into a curtsy.

Mipha smiled. "Please, Mipha will do."

"O-okay," Aryll said, smiling back shyly. "Mipha."

"And I'd like to introduce to you my mother, Marin Faron," Link said.

"An honor to meet you all," Marin said, giving a curtsy of her own. "Especially you, Your High—I mean, Mipha. My husband spoke fondly of you."

Mipha bowed her head. "You flatter me, Lady Marin. I'd like to offer my condolences. Sir Revan was a good man. When I heard the news, it felt as though a part of me had also passed."

"Thank you, Mipha," Marin said.

"Please, if there's anything we in Zora's Domain can do to assist you and your family, do not hesitate to ask," Mipha said. "We owe Sir Revan a debt of gratitude for saving Sidon. We would extend our gratitude towards you and your family as well during these trying times."

Marin was slightly flustered that a member of royalty was speaking to her in such a way. "You have my thanks. I shall bear that in mind."

Mipha gently smiled before turning to Liena. "Dame Serlut, it is a pleasure to see you once again."

Liena smiled and dropped into a formal curtsy. "The pleasure is all mine, Mipha."

Mipha turned back to Link. "Have you met any of the other pilots yet?"

"Today, no," Link answered. "But if you mean before, yes. Daruk was my trainer while I was at Death Mountain, and I've met Revali briefly only a few times. I have never seen Urbosa before, though Captain Auru described her to me."

Mipha was about to say something when the herald announced Daruk's arrival.

"Oh, I'd like to see Daruk again," Aryll said. "We talked a bit last year, but we didn't get a chance to ask him any good stories about you."

Liena's mouth formed a thin line. Link knew she wanted to groan, but her manners were polished to perfection, preventing her from doing so in such a public forum.

"Oh, he'll certainly have stories," Link said. He turned to Mipha. "I'll introduce you."

"Lead on, then," Mipha said.

It turned out that there was little reason to go anywhere. Daruk spotted them and easily cut a path.

"Hey, Little Guy! It's great to see you!" Daruk said in his booming voice.

Link was a bit worried that the boisterous Daruk might put off the soft Mipha, but she took his attitude in stride.

"Daruk, it's good to see you again," Link said, grinning. "I want to introduce you to the crown princess of the Zora and the pilot of Vah Ruta: Mipha. Mipha, this is the mighty Daruk of the Gorons and pilot of Vah Rudania."

"A pleasure to meet you, Daruk," Mipha said.

"Likewise, Little Princess," Daruk said happily. He respectfully bowed back. "Looks like we'll be working together, eh?"

"As you are a friend of Link's, I shall place my faith in your talents," Mipha said. "I look forward to working with you."

"You know him, too?" Daruk asked.

Mipha nodded. "We are old friends."

Daruk laughed. "Wow, you've been to a lot of places, eh, Little Guy?"

"You can blame Liena for that," Link said.

"Hello, Daruk," Liena said.

Daruk grinned widely and thumped his chest. "Liena, always a pleasure to see you!"

"And you remember my family," Link said.

"Sure do!" Daruk paused and looked around. "Hmm… I remember meeting your dad, too. Where is—?"

"I was wondering what kind of stories you might have to share with us about Link, Daruk," Aryll asked quickly. "He's been a bit light on the details about his training on Death Mountain."

Daruk let out a full belly-borne laugh. "Oh, I have a few I can share!"

~o~O~o~

"You had to go through all that, Liena?" Marin asked. "Poor girl."

The words of sympathy lost a bit of meaning between Marin's laughs.

The group had found a table to sit around—Daruk sat on the floor—and anecdotes were being shared about Link and Liena's time on Death Mountain.

"It was then I knew in my mind and from the depths of my soul," Liena said resolutely, "that I would never, ever again wear plate armor. Ever."

"There were times where it looked like she might die inside it," Link said.

Liena shook her head morosely. "Don't get me wrong, it was great strength training, but I don't want to put myself through that again."

"Ah, it served you well enough at the Gut Check Challenge," Daruk said.

"That it did," Liena replied, smiling.

Aryll made a face and looked at Link nervously. "Will I have to—?"

"Nothing is off the table," Link said firmly. He didn't want to lie to her to make her abandon her desire to be a knight, but he believed it would be unlikely. Though, how she would be trained would be up to whomever she served. If the knight knew that Link had trained on Death Mountain, there was a chance that Aryll would be sent there as well. "Nothing."

Aryll's displeasure rolled off of her in waves. "Yuck."

"Ah, you'll get used to it," Daruk said. "It's all training."

"I can see why you admire him so much, Link," Marin said.

"Aww, shucks," Daruk said. He scratched the back of his head embarrassingly.

Further discussion was put on hold when the herald announced Urbosa's arrival. Link was just about to suggest that they meet her when Revali's name was called a moment later.

"We should see them," Mipha said.

"Privately, I think," Link said. The nobles around them were too far away to eavesdrop, but that might change.

"If you say so," Daruk said, shrugging.

"Liena, could you find Impa and have her round them up and meet us?" Link asked. "There's a parlor room not far from here we can use."

"I can do that," Liena said. She smirked at him. "Sir."

Link rolled his eyes. "Do you want me to make it a habit to order you around?"

Liena laughed and disappeared among the crowds.

Link told his family he would be back later before leading Mipha and Daruk out of the ballroom.

The room they found themselves in was small—in comparison to other rooms in the castle; objectively, it was bigger than Link's living room—and they settled themselves in.

"You think anyone saw us leave?" Daruk asked.

The absurdity of the question brought a smile to Link's face. Given Daruk's size, it was a certainty.

"I'm sure of it," Mipha said. "Everyone is interested in us and our roles. We will have eyes on us for quite some time, even if I were not a princess."

Before they could speak more, there was a knock on the door. Link, having waited nearby, was quick to open it. He stepped aside and allowed the other pilots entry.

"Well, it seems you've managed to make a name for yourself," Revali said snidely, in lieu of a traditional introduction or greeting, as he swaggered inside.

And we're off.

Behind Revali, Urbosa rolled her eyes and walked in behind him. Her hips swayed, which almost served to draw Link's eyes. However, the tension in the room rose enough that instead, he quietly thanked Impa for her help and asked that she fetch Purah and Robbie and bring them over before closing the door.

Link joined the other pilots. "I'm Link. Let me introduce you to the others. This is Daruk, my trainer when I was at Death Mountain."

"Hi there!" Daruk said.

"And Princess Mipha of the Zora, a close friend of mine."

"Greetings, one and all," Mipha said gently.

"This is Revali of the Rito," Link simply said. He didn't elaborate further, knowing what was coming up.

"And the finest archer in Hyrule," Revali added.

Link spoke up before Revali could continue. "And this is—"

"Chief Urbosa," Mipha said. She gave the Gerudo a curtsy. "It has been too long, hasn't it?"

Urbosa smirked and inclined her head. "It has. How is little Sidon? He can't speak yet, if memory serves."

"Simple syllables, but not quite speech-worthy yet," Mipha said. "He is doing well."

"You've met, I see," Link said.

"A few times, and only during diplomatic events held at Hyrule Castle," Mipha said. "Unfortunately, we haven't met outside of that, due to… well…"

"I live in the desert, she lives in the water," Urbosa bluntly said, smirking humorously. "We don't really have many chances to meet. Or at all, even."

"Quite," Mipha said. When she turned to Urbosa, her eyes softened. "In fact, the last time we spoke…"

Urbosa lost some of her haughtiness and became a bit downcast. "Yes. She was a very dear friend of mine."

Link knew they were talking about the late queen and chose to remain silent.

Urbosa cast away the despondency and regained her prideful demeanor. "Enough of that. Tonight we celebrate a birthday."

Mipha smiled. "Of course. Forgive me—"

"Ah-ah," Urbosa said, wagging her finger. "I said enough of that, now."

Giggling, Mipha nodded. "But of course."

During their exchange, Link observed Urbosa. Like most Gerudo women, she was tall—at least a head taller than Link, but a head shorter than Daruk. She appeared to be the same age as his mother, making her the third oldest of the group—Daruk had everyone beat, and Link was sure Mipha was probably older than his mother—but the Gerudo's age only served to enhance her femininity. The clothes she wore were fit for desert life: thin, flowing, and breathable. They also covered enough for modesty, but also seemed to ooze sensuality and the promise of what was hidden beneath. She wore her bright-red hair long, done up in a high ponytail. Blue lipstick and nail polish stood in stark contrast to her desert-tanned dark skin, which would certainly draw the attention of anyone interested in her, as it served to enhance her already-exotic allure. She had a shield and scimitar sheathed at her hip.

All in all, Link concluded that Urbosa was much like the Gerudo warriors he had fought against at the Four Swords: they used their appearance as both an advantage and a weapon, as sharp and deadly as their spears or swords.

He mentally braced himself against what he knew would be playful banter, harmless teasing, and overt flirtatious behavior that would be borderline indecent all designed to get a rise out of him.

"To reiterate, remind, or make aware for everyone here," Link said to bring their meeting on track, "Daruk is the pilot of Vah Rudania, Mipha is the pilot of Vah Ruta, Revali is the pilot of Vah Medoh, and Urbosa is the pilot of Vah Naboris."

"Hmph," Revali said dismissively. "Vah Medoh will be more than sufficient for the task ahead."

Urbosa scoffed. "Don't go acting as if you built it. You stand upon the shoulders of the ancients before you."

Revali sneered. He was just opening his beak for a rebuttal when there was another knock. Privately thankful for their timing, Link opened the door again.

"Purah, Robbie, so glad you can join us," Link said.

Purah nodded and walked in, her attitude no-nonsense. Robbie was wearing his goggles normally now. He also walked in, scribbling something in a notebook as he did so. Impa was standing at the door.

"Do you want me to stay, too?" Impa asked.

Link shrugged. "If you want. You can give some further context into Calamity Ganon and the Divine Beasts."

Impa nodded and entered.

"For those that haven't met, or don't remember, this is Purah and Robbie," Link said. "They were the research leaders that spent the last few years reactivating the Divine Beasts."

"I'm the senior researcher," Purah said. "Robbie is my subordinate."

"Unless I missed something, we are onto the next phase of His Majesty's plan, which is the reactivation of the Guardians," Robbie muttered. He still hadn't looked up from his notebook. "I now have seniority."

Before Purah could retort, Link let out a low and long whistle. All eyes turned back to him.

"This is Impa, royal advisor and expert researcher on the ancients and their legends and lore," Link said.

"A pleasure to meet you all," Impa said candidly.

"Purah and Robbie are here to tell us about the Divine Beasts, what they do, how they work, and eventually how each of you will commune with them," Link said. "As of right now, you're pilots in title only. Following the ceremony, Purah and her team will be traveling to each realm and making the title official."

All four of pilots looked at each other.

Link crossed his arms. "Did you believe that you were pilots already? It was my understanding that each Divine Beast was either acting autonomously or dormant until you were registered."

Purah nodded. "There's still more work to be done. Once you're registered, we need to put the Divine Beasts through their paces and see how well they're functioning. We only have an idea. The pilot will confirm. If necessary, further repairs or adjustments will need to be made to operate at peak efficiency."

All four pilots nodded.

"Good," Robbie said. He closed his notebook with a snap and pointed at the chairs. "Everyone should get seated. There's a lot to explain."

~o~O~o~

Twilight had arrived by the time Link rejoined the party. He had intended for everything to be a simple introduction, but it had occurred to him that while they were selected as pilots, he assumed—deduced, really—that none of them were registered with their Divine Beasts yet.

If the researchers had been dispatched again, he would have known about it, given his position.

Purah and Robbie took turns explaining the Divine Beasts, their theoretical strengths and weaknesses, how a pilots would control them, and their overall capabilities. Link and Impa both served as moderators when the discussion got too technical or when Purah and Robbie got sidetracked with bickering. After that, Impa took the stage to explain Calamity Ganon, his—though the right pronoun would probably be 'it' now—intentions, history, the events 10,000 years prior which had led to the creation of the Divine Beasts, and the roles of destiny between the hero and the princess.

The conversation wasn't exhausting, thank Farore, but it was one he wasn't keen on having again.

He snatched a glass of water and restored moisture to his parched throat. Next, he walked over to the buffet and served himself as much food as he could get away with without looking like a glutton.

Plate filled—dinner would be served later, so he knew he had to be patient—Link found his family chatting with Liena and her family.

"Hi, Link," Aryll said. "All done for now?"

Link nodded and started happily eating.

"The Hylian Royal Family entered while you were talking business," Liena said. "They're mingling now."

Link had just put a pâte into his mouth when he realized what that meant.

He knew what was coming even before Aryll asked, "Link, can I meet them?"

Looking forlornly at his plate—and deftly ignoring Liena's soft giggles—he placed his plate down and nodded.

"Mother, would you like to meet them?" Aryll asked.

Marin shook her head. "No… no, I don't believe I will. But you enjoy yourself."

"But why?" Aryll asked.

"Come on, Aryll," Link softly said over the background music a small band was playing on the other side of the room.

With one last uncertain look at their mother, Aryll followed Link through the ever-increasing throngs of people.

King Rhoam and Princess Zelda were speaking to a group of nobles. King Rhoam saw them approach and beckoned them closer.

"Your Majesty, Your Highness," Link said respectfully. He turned his attention to Princess Zelda and bowed deeply. "I would like to wish you a happy fifteenth birthday."

Princess Zelda gazed at him coolly. However, when King Rhoam cleared his throat meaningfully, the princess took a deep breath.

Stiffly, she said, "You honor me, Sir Link."

Link stood straight and placed a hand on Aryll's shoulder. "May I introduce my sister, Aryll?"

Aryll quickly dipped into a curtsy. "Happy birthday, Your Highness."

For some reason, Zelda seemed to warm immediately to Aryll. She smiled and inclined her head. "Thank you, Aryll."

Seeing her positive reception, Aryll relaxed. "It is no trouble, Your Highness."

"I understand that you have met all of our pilots," King Rhoam said to Link.

"I have," Link replied. "It was informal and sudden, but they are more informed than before."

King Rhoam nodded sagely. "It will make our future meetings easier going forward. It was good of you to take such initiative."

Link bowed. "Thank you, Your Majesty."

"Enjoy yourselves this evening," King Rhoam said. He turned to Aryll and smiled kindly to offset his presence, both in physical stature and in social station. "I am pleased to properly meet you, Aryll."

Aryll swallowed and curtsied again. "Um… uh… the h-honor is m-mine, Y-your Majesty."

"Please, enjoy the festivities," King Rhoam said. He knelt down and whispered into Aryll's ear, though Link could also make out what was being said. "There will be a lovely show later in the evening. I hope you will remain long enough to see it. It will be quite the spectacle."

Aryll grinned and nodded. "Thank you, Your Majesty!"

When King Rhoam stood and inclined his head, Link knew they were dismissed. He took Aryll's hand and led her back to their group.

"Wow, that was really…" Aryll muttered.

"Hmm," Link noncommittedly said.

Aryll shot him a look. "Are you telling me you weren't nervous when you met them?"

Link slowed to a stop and looked away. The memories of their first—the king and Link's—meeting rang clear in his mind. "I met the king a couple of days after I drew the Master Sword."

The act of claiming the Master Sword wasn't what really impressed Aryll, but she knew what had led Link to do it, and she looked away, too. "Oh."

"It was a… tense meeting," Link simply said. "Different, unusual, and… well, trust me, I'm not nervous around him, no."

Aryll took a deep breath and looked over her shoulder. The princess was talking to Misko, the Sheikah bard. "Is there something going on between you and the princess?"

Link shook his head. "I don't know. We haven't talked very much, and I haven't been around her to do anything to warrant any hostilities. Our first meeting was tense as well, though, but it seemed like it was her more than me, if Impa is to be believed."

"She didn't seem to mind me," Aryll pointed out.

Link shrugged. He had a sneaking suspicion that the princess's attitude had more to do with Calamity Ganon than him and merely let her vent in whatever manner brought the most comfort. Glancing at Aryll, he said, "I guess you have your charms and I have mine."

Aryll was fairly skipping back to their group.

"Well, you look positively beaming," Leon said.

"Well, it's not every evening one gets to meet royalty," Aryll said.

"I hope you enjoy yourself, then," Leon said, smiling widely. "Now, I do believe dinner will be served… right… about…"

As if on cue, a loud gong sounded throughout the room. A servant announced that dinner was to be served.

Liena looked at her father with mild astonishment. "How do you do that?"

Leon only winked, coupled with a mysterious smile.

"He quietly asked that lovely lady that collected our glasses and Link's plate—sorry, dear—when dinner would be served," Marin said, trying vainly to hide her smile.

Looking wounded, Leon gazed at Marin with an exaggerated expression of betrayal.

Laughing lightly, Astoria seized her husband's arm. "Let us dine, dear. I'm famished."

Taking the initiative, Link offered his hand—the one that was free, since his other hand was still holding on to Aryll—to Liena.

Smiling back, Liena accepted his hand and stood up.

The group was led to their assigned table. They were given a table in very close proximity to the table where King Rhoam and Princess Zelda would be dining, a position of honor. Link first pulled out Marin's chair, then Aryll's, and finally Liena's before seating himself, and waited patiently for all the guests to settle in.

"What's taking so long?" Aryll whispered to Link.

It was Liena who leaned down and answered. "Manners and respect. All the guests need to be seated first, then we wait for the royal family to be seated, and then for His Majesty—or for this occasion, it will be Princess Zelda, since it's her birthday—to grant us permission to begin."

"Oh."

Link saw that the other pilots had entered as well and were seated in places of honor much like him, near where the Hylian royal family would dine.

At last, King Rhoam and Princess Zelda entered.

When everyone had settled in, Princess Zelda smiled to all assembled. "Let us dine."

With that, a small army of the servants entered and started placing various foodstuffs in front of them.

Link and Aryll started eating at once.

"Oh, goddesses," Aryll said, awestruck. "It's so good!"

"Oh… I wish I could cook like this," Marin said wistfully. "I wonder if it's possible to get lessons…"

"There are ways," Astoria said. "Some chefs do teach classes, others take apprentices, and there are job opportunities where culinary talent is cultivated and invested upon. If you like, I can certainly look around and recommend someone."

"Oh," Marin said with wide eyes. She wavered between not wanting to take advantage of such a kind offer and the exquisite soup that was begging her to take another spoonful. "Thank you. I deeply appreciate it."

Link took another spoonful and had to resist the urge to sigh contentedly.

The courses flowed, and Link subtly directed Aryll on which utensil to use for each plate while trying to keep decorum. He found his will constantly tested at the literally mouth-melting food he was able to partake in. Leon quietly whispered to him that if he wished to request seconds, he was more than free to do so.

While he was able to mind his manners, Link lost the fight against restraint and asked for more than seconds.

When dessert was served, Aryll's eyes widened at the appearance of the fruitcake, and she tucked right in. Again, Link kindly requested extras. At Leon's smirk, Link vehemently said it was for Aryll, but the doubting eyes around the table showed that no one believed him. He almost pouted.

With the conclusion of dinner, soft music started to play. King Rhoam stood up, along with Princess Zelda. He led her to the dance floor and began the first dance of the evening.

Link passively watched, and for some reason, his eyes were drawn to the princess's face. Whenever she had looked at him, there was always a hint of a scowl just waiting to be revealed. However, in this moment, she genuinely looked happy, and there was something about her smile that seemed to draw him in…

Careful! Bad Link! Not good!

Blinking back to awareness, he turned back to his third helping of fruitcake and enjoyed another forkful. Once he finished, he finally let out a contented sigh.

Leon chuckled softly. "Well, you certainly have a healthy appetite, don't you?"

Link smiled and shrugged. During the entirety of dinner, he had often requested a second or third helping, depending on how tasty the food was. Marin had tried to insist that Link restrain himself, but Astoria and Leon had waved it off and allowed Link to eat to his heart's content. The result was that he had managed to put more food away than the rest of the table combined.

"It's not fair," Marin mumbled.

"Goodness," Astoria said.

"He's been like that ever since I've known him," Liena said.

"He's been like that his entire life," Marin said, somewhat jealous. "Honestly, Link. Where does all of that go?"

"Into my stomach, where it belongs," Link said, grinning. Leon let out a laugh.

Liena shook her head and, against tradition, stood up and offered her hand to Link. "Let's go, Link. Time to face the Lizalfos."

Rolling his eyes, Link accepted her hand, and they made for the dance floor. Others were already joining the royal family and dancing slowly to the melody. Boldly, Link took the lead by spinning Liena in place before grasping her hand and waist.

"Well, you seem to remember a few things," Liena murmured. "Now time to see if you remember everything else."

"There will be no laps for me," Link confidently said.

Link led her through the steps, and even a few that managed to surprise her. Liena was grinning midway through the dance after Link completed a flawless double reverse-turn.

"Okay, okay, I get it, you've mastered your lessons," Liena said, giggling.

"I don't think I've seen you really embrace your noble persona before," Link said. "You've always been casual around me."

"Because you wouldn't have the patience for that kind of grandstanding… and I feel like I can relax and just be me around you," Liena said. "We both have to play our parts in public. Just be sure to let the mask down in private."

"I'm always happy to get advice from you," Link said.

"I'm going to run out one day," Liena said. "Then I really would have nothing to teach you."

They cycled through two more dances—both performed flawlessly, much to Liena's delight—before she requested a break.

"Done already?" Leon asked as they made their way off the dance floor. He was still dancing with Astoria. "Hmph, I thought the young ones had stamina and energy to spare."

Astoria sighed and giggled. "You give them too much credit."

"Clearly," Leon said, adopting a 'snooty' tone.

Liena almost rolled her eyes but settled for shaking her head.

"Would you like something to drink?" Link asked her.

Liena looked over at their table and shook her head. "I can get it myself. Aryll looks lonely. Go be a big brother."

Link followed her gaze and saw that Aryll was sitting by herself. Frowning, he looked around and saw his mother dancing with an older gentleman. His frown deepened.

Liena took his arm and pulled him away. "I know him. That's Lord Renado. He's a family man and harmless. Don't let what I said about nobles discolor your perception. We know who to trust and who to keep at arm's length. I have little doubt my parents informed Marin that she's safe with him. Let your mother have some fun tonight, okay?"

Link cycled through a variety of emotions, which were plain to see on his face. He almost scowled, glared, and growled before resignation or acceptance settled onto his shoulders.

"Fine," he muttered. "You're right."

"I know," Liena said. She pushed him towards Aryll. "Go on, now."

Link walked up to Aryll. "Something wrong?"

Aryll shrugged. Even in the dark, Link caught her eyes darting towards the dance floor.

"Come on," Link said. Without waiting for permission, he seized Aryll's hand and pulled her in.

Aryll didn't protest. On the contrary, she was fighting back a grin as she joined him on the dance floor and started swaying in time with the music.

"You know, when I was learning to dance, I had to run laps every time I stepped on Liena's feet," Link said conversationally.

Aryll saw right through him and narrowed her eyes. "I will not be the one making the mistake here."

"That confident in your lessons, are you?" Link asked.

"Yes," Aryll said. She suddenly giggled. "You know, when I was first learning to dance, Father demanded that he be my first partner. He had me stand on his feet, and he would sort of carry me through the steps. That way, I could feel the way he would move, how much to move, the distance, the timing…"

Link chuckled when the mental image appeared in his head. "Well, you're lucky, then. I wasn't so fortunate."

"Did you make a lot of mistakes?" Aryll asked.

Link chuckled again. "Yeah. One lap for each mistake. Thank Farore that Liena was wearing boots."

Aryll barked out a laugh.

This time, Link was the one surprised at the variety of dance moves that Aryll knew, and he added several new steps to his ever-growing repertoire. Thankfully, he didn't make any mistakes with her, either.

At one point, though, he noticed her attention on their mother, dancing not too far away.

"Everything okay?" Link asked.

Aryll jerked back and nodded. "Yeah. It's just… I remember Mother and Father were dancing together when I was learning. I was just watching to see how it was done, you know?"

Link took a deep breath. "You know Mother loves Father. But she's alive, and she needs to have some fun of her own. She can't revolve her entire life around us. That's a bit selfish, don't you think?"

Aryll looked down and nodded.

"I agree that it feels weird she's dancing with someone else or having fun with someone else, but let her have her moments," Link whispered. "Like you said, how often do you think we get to do something like this? Even with my change in social status?"

"Okay, okay, I get it," Aryll mumbled. She looked back at him suspiciously. "What do you think about it?"

"I wanted to go over there, interrupt their dance, and be her partner," Link said. He made a face when the thought finally reached its conclusion. "But then that would feel so weird."

Aryll giggled.

"Pardon me," a male voice sounded to Link's right.

Leon was standing next to them, smiling benignly. "May I have the pleasure of this next dance? I do believe that lovely Sheikah lady was trying to get your attention, Link."

Link saw Impa standing at the edge of the floor, looking directly at him, and smiling.

"I don't mind," Link said, "if Aryll doesn't?"

Aryll shook her head. "Not at all."

Leon bowed deeply. "You honor me, Lady Aryll."

Stepping back, Link wound his way towards Impa and held out his hand. "Would you like to dance?"

Grinning, Impa took his hand. "I would."

All in all, Link ended up cycling through different partners for the evening. Purah boldly stepped in. A random noblewoman named Agatha wanted a dance, and Liena returned to him at least three times more for another series of dances. She subtly hinted that she was using him to escape dancing with some of her 'suitors' and then feign exhaustion and the need to rest.

Link knew that she had the stamina and physicality to go for hours following their stint at Death Mountain. Still, he played along, though he did let out the occasional chuckle, to which she retaliated by squeezing his hand harder than necessary.

Finally thirsty, Link sought out some water and found Leon sipping a glass of wine contentedly.

Leon kindly poured Link a goblet of water and offered it to him. "I take back what I said. You really do have the stamina to go on and on and on—"

"I get it," Link said, laughing.

"—and on and on and on, and so forth," Leon said, grinning. His attention turned back to Liena, who was sitting in the company of some noble girls.

Whatever they were talking about, there was a lot of giggling involved.

After a few moments, Leon said, "They're talking about you."

Link looked back and tried to divine how Leon knew that.

"One of them just asked if Liena had just taken you for a lover yet," Leon continued.

Link felt very proud of himself that he didn't drop his goblet or that his eyes didn't bug out. He did have to clench his jaw to keep his expression as flat as possible, though. "Very funny."

Leon arched an eyebrow at him, his face unchanging in its expression.

"Y-you were joking, weren't you?" Link asked.

Looking back at the gaggle of girls, Leon continued to observe them. On the surface, it looked like mild disinterest, but there was a flicker in Leon's eyes that Link could barely perceive in the darkened room, which told a different story.

"They're all very interested in her choice of a date. And now they're wondering if you're available," Leon finally said. "My advice? Reject their advances. Gently if you can, but firmly if you must. Be kind, but do not be ambiguous. There are times when a noble, especially an aristocratic female, must learn the word 'no'."

The answer finally dawned on Link. "You can read lips."

"Fluently," Leon admitted freely. He took another sip of wine before eyeing Link this time. "Tell me, did my Liena tell you why she needed your presence this evening?"

"She said it was to discourage Astoria from selecting a date for her," Link answered.

"Ah, I see," Leon said. He heaved a dramatic sigh. "I'm afraid Liena has a while to go before she becomes a match for her mother, it seems."

"So do I, because I don't follow," Link bluntly admitted.

"The events that unfolded all fit neatly within my wife's scope and vision," Leon replied. "Either Liena is partnered with someone of Astoria's choosing, or… Liena comes here with you."

Link blinked and cast an uncertain look at Astoria. The Serlut matriarch was talking with another group of noble ladies at their own shadowy side of the room.

"Consider it a lesson in strategy," Leon said. "Manipulate events around you in such a way that you win regardless. The only question is the gains you stand to make in any of the outcomes you generate."

Link furrowed his brow. "You make it sound like a war."

"Not all battles are fought with arrows, spears, and blades, my boy," Leon said. "Sharpen your wits, and you'll find ways to avoid conflict. Master your wits, and you'll find ways to win wars without a drop of blood being shed… or at least preserve your own."

"And what is your opinion about the situation?" Link asked.

Leon smiled widely. "Entertaining."

Link shook his head. "I should have expected that."

"Don't get me wrong, I want what's best for Liena," Leon said. "However, I believe she'll make her choice in the end, and I have to trust that she will make the right one."

Link nodded.

"That doesn't mean that I will give the lad a pass, though," Leon said thoughtfully. "No, it's likely my default setting is that I will hate him, regardless of his pedigree."

Again, Link nodded, albeit less certain.

Leon chuckled and patted Link on the shoulder. "When you're a father one day, you'll understand."

Link tilted his head thoughtfully. "You don't seem to have a problem with me, though."

Leon nodded, and his countenance grew serious. "Perhaps I may have made light of this before, but understand me: I love my daughter. I want the best for her. And most importantly, Goddesses willing, she live a full and happy life."

"That sounds reasonable," Link said.

"Indeed it does," Leon replied, still serious. "And you, Link, made sure of that. You saved her life. And if you do your job correctly, you will do so again, if indirectly. You don't need to be a father to know how much what you did means to me."

"I think I understand," Link said.

"Good," Leon said. He looked around and leaned in closer. "As Sir Revan's son, I know that you will likely step away from the praise and the admiration. But understand me, you have a friend with the Serluts. If there's anything, anything at all you require, know that we are happy to provide."

Link slowly nodded before realization dawned on him. "Those shopping trips for my family…"

Leon waved it off. "Mere trifles, but expenses we were more than happy to pay."

"That's very generous, Leon, but—"

"I'm afraid my gratitude is non-negotiable," Leon said. "The debt we owe you is not one so easily paid. We are honor-bound in this."

Concluding that this was an argument he wasn't going to win, Link sighed and nodded. "I understand."

"I'm glad we see eye-to-eye, then," Leon said before smiling mischievously. "You know… while I may despise the unfortunate partner my Liena chooses… I do find myself liking you. How about that? Very interesting."

Link's mouth fell open ever so slightly.

Leon looked over Link's shoulder and inclined his head. "Ah, I see Lord Gaist. Forgive me, Link. I must go speak with him. Do enjoy your evening, and thank you again for looking after my daughter."

With Leon's abrupt departure, Link heaved a sigh. He took a gulp of water, uncaring if it looked uncouth, and looked around. He smiled when he spotted Mipha approach him.

"Are you enjoying your evening, Link?" she asked.

"I am," Link answered. "And you?"

Mipha nodded and held out her hand. "Would you like to dance with me?"

Link smiled and accepted Mipha's hand. "I'd be honored—no, I'd love to."

~o~O~o~

"That was so much fun," Aryll said tiredly.

"Fun, yes, but it's your bedtime," Marin said, smiling widely.

"Mmm… just a little bit longer?" Aryll pleaded, waking a bit more and eyes widening. "The king said something was going to happen."

When Marin looked at Link, he could only shrug. "I don't know what it is," he said.

They were seated at their original table. All traces of their dinner had been removed. Some pitchers with a variety of drinks were laid before them instead. Aryll had been leaning on their mother but sat up at the mention of bedtime.

Link looked around. "Well, if there is someone that might know…"

"Ah yes, Leon!" Aryll said. She looked around, too. "I don't see him…"

"I see Liena," Marin said.

The siblings both turned to see Liena walking towards them with purposeful strides.

"I'm glad you're all still here. We saved a spot outside for you," she said. "Let's go. You don't want to miss this."

All four walked to the south balcony. The cool spring evening air greeted them with a light breeze. Some people were already there. Leon and Astoria waved at them and gestured them closer.

"What's going to happen?" Aryll asked excitedly, her exhaustion gone for the moment.

Astoria shook her head. "That would ruin the surprise. Just wait."

Link looked around at the others gathered around them. "Do they know what's about to happen?"

"Some, perhaps," Leon said. "Others are likely here by happenstance."

"Will it be long?" Marin asked.

"It shouldn't be," Astoria answered. "We must ask for a bit of patience, however."

They chatted for a time. Link ended up holding Aryll upright as she leaned against him heavily. She was fighting a losing battle of staying awake and was now trying to sleep standing up.

Suddenly, a loud boom echoed, shattering the quiet night.

Eyes wide open, Link, Aryll, and Marin all searched for the sound when another boom sounded.

"Oh, goddesses, that's amazing!" Aryll said.

The beginning of a fireworks show started. Everyone filed out of the ballroom and gathered on the balcony, but none of their positions seemed to offer a view as well as theirs. Everyone made noises of approval. The fireworks were being launched from across the castle moat, just past the main bridge and north of Central Square of Castle Town.

Aryll stood on her tiptoes. The stone railing made it harder to see clearly. "Oh, I wish I were taller already!"

"Oh, here, allow me," a gravelly voice said.

Aryll didn't even have time to turn around when she was suddenly lifted into the air. She let out an undignified squawk, which changed into a sound of wonder as Daruk placed her on one of his massive shoulders.

Aryll adjusted herself until she was seated comfortably and smiled brightly at him. "Thank you, Daruk!"

Daruk grinned back and looked at the sky filled with lights, colors, and sounds.

"It's so magical," Aryll said in awe.

Smiling at the sight, Link looked around and spotted Revali, perched high above the crowds atop a gargoyle, arms crossed, and impassively watching the fireworks. Mipha was with her father, but she caught Link's eye and grinned. Urbosa was standing behind Princess Zelda, her hands on the young girl's shoulders comfortably. Princess Zelda herself was leaning against Urbosa, looking at the fireworks with a complicated expression. It looked like a cross between wonder and melancholy.

As Link turned back to the sparkling lights exploding high in the sky, he found himself wondering why, of all people, a princess would be sad on her birthday.