Central Hyrule – Hyrule Castle
The days seemed to crawl by, yet at the same time, blend together in a blur for Link. Days eventually turned into weeks, then finally into months. As he had feared, his appointment was extremely boring, but what he hadn't counted on was how solitary it was. Impa had been busy and could only spare a few minutes of conversation at a time, and Princess Zelda often acted as if he wasn't there at all. If it weren't for Midna's company and companionship, Link feared he would have abandoned his post within the first month. Now Din's Season was almost upon them, and with it, a fresh wave of heat. Purah and her small team had managed to (re)visit all four provinces and registered each Champion to their respective Divine Beast. Purah returned to the Royal Ancient Lab, while the rest of her team then divided themselves further, with each stationed at the four corners of Hyrule to observe and report back on the Champions' progress with the Divine Beasts.
With regards to news closer to home, Impa confided to Link that the Sheikah had eliminated the traitor. She had not surrendered and had not been willing to go down without a fight. The Sheikah warriors had found the inverted Sheikah emblem on her corpse, confirming that the Yiga had indeed been responsible.
Princess Zelda remained distant, and Link tried his best to remain as unobtrusive in her life as possible. Currently, with Rauru's guidance, the princess started trying religious mantras and praying to the great goddesses for her power to awaken.
When Link had been tasked as Princess Zelda's bodyguard, he had been instructed to be her shadow. What he hadn't realized was how literal King Rhoam had meant it when he caught Link watching the sunset in the corridor outside the castle chapel while the princess conducted her daily prayers.
The king clarified his orders by informing Link that unless Princess Zelda was inappropriately dressed, in her quarters, or in any other circumstances of similar events/locations, Link should be in the same room as her.
As such, Link found himself learning about religious rites, mostly at the chapel within the castle, though they did go to the temple in Castle Town with High Priest Rauru. Princess Zelda prayed for several hours there at least once a week.
It was a show of devotion that even Link had to respect and admire. Such fervent belief was only just surpassed by clergymen or sisters in pure commitment to the Great Goddesses.
When she wasn't praying, Princess Zelda threw herself into research, either in the library or in her laboratory.
She studiously ignored him almost the entire time. Apparently, saving her life hadn't earned his way into her good graces.
The most conversation they'd had was early on in their 'working relationship', when Midna had wanted attention from her. Princess Zelda had asked Link what her name was, he had answered, and they hadn't spoken another word since… though he did catch the princess dropping treats on the floor for Midna to scoop up like a furry, four-legged Octorok.
Currently, Link was standing behind Princess Zelda as she, King Rhoam, and Purah were speaking about the progress of the Champions and the Divine Beasts inside the king's office.
"Now, I cannot say for sure if Vah Medoh can fly any faster than it already is," Purah said, "but Revali seems to believe so. Personally, I think it's too dangerous, but if it can be even more maneuverable than it is now, then we would increase our advantage."
King Rhoam nodded. His eyes darted towards Link. "And what of you, Link? Do you have an opinion?"
Link blinked and tilted his head. "My… experience with Vah Medoh is limited, Your Majesty. If I were to hazard a guess, I would say that increasing its speed would be a bad idea. I think it flies at the speed it's at because of its weaponry. Speaking as an archer, moving faster would often mean sacrificing accuracy. As a weapon of war, I would think the ancients would prefer that Vah Medoh strike its targets, rather than… um… well, hitting anything else. The advantage of Vah Medoh is its ability to fire from high altitude, which would give it a wide field of view, all while ensuring it stays out of range of most conventional attacks. Purah, what is the range of Vah Medoh's weaponry?"
Purah tapped her chin. Her brow was furrowed, and she started mouthing something to herself. Eventually, she shook her head and shrugged. "I don't know."
"According to the schematics, it has weaponry to attack air and ground targets. It's likely to have extraordinary reach," Princess Zelda said. "And in the event of an attack, it also has a barrier with which to protect itself."
"We need to understand the full capabilities of the Divine Beasts if we're to use them… preferably without putting our own people at risk," King Rhoam said. "Purah, would you be able to go to Tabantha and meet with your team there soon?"
Purah grimaced. "I would recommend against that, Your Majesty. We're still trying to restore the Guardians. We've recently unearthed several different models, and we're trying to get them in working order. I'm afraid that if I leave, we could set our work back on that front by months. Especially since Robbie and I must be personally and deeply involved with the process, since… well… you know."
"I can go," Princess Zelda said quickly. "I've studied the inner workings of all four Divine Beasts thoroughly."
"You must awaken your power," King Rhoam said sternly. "The Divine Beasts are mere tools. The legends say that it is both the Hero and the Princess that seal the Calamity. The Divine Beasts were restored to aid, but little else."
"I can recite my mantras every evening on the way there. I promise you, Father, I remain ever vigilant with my efforts," Princess Zelda pleaded.
Narrowing his eyes, King Rhoam exhaled noisily and glanced at Link. "Your thoughts?"
"It's summer, so the roads to Tabantha will be clear, and the weather works in our favor. The journey there and back should be swift," Link said neutrally. "Her Highness has remained devout and tireless in her efforts to awaken her abilities, as per your orders. She has spent time in every religious structure that we could find within Castle Town. It might be good to clear her head a bit, and Hebra air is among the freshest I have ever had. There might be merit to a change of location."
King Rhoam frowned. Princess Zelda had an unreadable look on her face, but it was one of the rare times that she made proper eye contact with Link.
"Purah, your thoughts?" King Rhoam asked.
"Well, Her Highness is almost as good as I am with regards to the inner workings of the Divine Beasts. If I can't go, she's the next-best expert we probably have," Purah said. "But if you're referring to her sealing power, I'm at a loss. At best, any thoughts of mine will be mere conjecture. At worst, it'll be wild speculation."
Sighing heavily, King Rhoam shot a look at Princess Zelda that bordered on severe. "You will pray to the goddesses both morning and evening. Is that clear?"
Princess Zelda quickly bowed. "Of course, Father."
"I'm sure you're aware of this, but Link, you are to accompany her," King Rhoam ordered. "Finish your task there as quickly as you're able, and return at once. Is that clear?"
"Yes, Your Majesty." – "Yes, Father."
"You leave tomorrow," King Rhoam said. "Pack your things. And, Zelda, do not forget your prayers this evening."
"I won't, Father," Princess Zelda replied.
"Now, what can you tell me of the status of the other Divine Beasts?"
"Ah, well, there's also a bit of a problem with Vah Rudania," Purah said. "Daruk is having some trouble controlling it, it seems, but according to Markus, my subordinate on-site, it may have nothing to do with the Divine Beast. He reports that, mechanically speaking, everything appears to be working fine. It's likely to be pilot error. However, it might be worth investigating."
Purah turned her eyes to Princess Zelda again.
King Rhoam scowled.
Princess Zelda opened her mouth, paused to clear her throat, and tried again. However, she had no words to offer.
"I do not want Zelda on that mountain," King Rhoam said. "It is dangerous enough during peacetime."
"We should go," Link said.
All eyes turned to him.
"I know Death Mountain. I trained there for a few months," Link said. "If it's really just pilot error, then our journey there should be finished within days, especially if there is nothing for Her Highness to do."
"The journey from Hebra to Eldin and back to Hyrule Castle may take up to a month," King Rhoam said tightly. "That is more time than I care to waste when Zelda should be putting all of her efforts into awakening her latent powers. The Divine Beasts should not be her concern."
Link half-shrugged. "His Majesty did put a lot of time and rupees into the Divine Beasts. We all knew that there were bound to be problems."
"Our greatest problem is that the Divine Beasts are meant to help you and Zelda," King Rhoam said. "If sacrificing the Divine Beasts meant awakening the sealing power, then the choice becomes painfully obvious."
"Rest assured, Father, I continue to try my best," Princess Zelda quietly said.
"If that is so, then why the interest in the Divine Beasts and not one mention of your powers beyond 'trying'?" King Rhoam rhetorically asked. His tone was stern and almost impatient. "Your best seems to fall short, Zelda. If you put more focus on what matters rather than studying technology that has no benefit in helping your abilities to manifest, then we may not be having this conversation. As it stands, I fail to see what kind of effort you are making."
Princess Zelda fell silent and looked down at her feet.
"Well, if His Majesty is amenable, we could divert from Hebra to the Great Plateau before traveling to Eldin," Link suggested. "The Temple of Time stands there, correct? It may be worth trying there, since efforts within Hyrule Castle or Castle Town haven't shown any progress."
Princess Zelda's head snapped up, and she looked at her father hopefully.
King Rhoam eyed Link and Princess Zelda solemnly. Link didn't react, but Zelda squirmed a bit under his gaze.
"You will spend a week there, praying to the goddesses," King Rhoam said to his daughter. "I shall have Rauru meet you. You may stay in the Eastern Abbey. I will remind you once again that, above all else, your duty is of the utmost importance. Are we clear?"
Princess Zelda nodded. "Yes, we are clear. I mean, I understand. And I will honor my duty."
"Furthermore, you are not to climb Death Mountain," King Rhoam said. "Link will make that part of the journey. Impa will meet you at the nearest stable…"
When King Rhoam cast a glance at Link, he answered, "That would be the Foothill Stable, Your Majesty."
"At the Foothill Stable," King Rhoam continued. "You will continue with your prayers while Link speaks to Daruk. If required, he will board Vah Rudania and conduct a cursory inspection."
Link tilted his head. His whole body screamed, 'who, me?'
"I am well aware that the inner workings of the Divine Beast is not your specialty," King Rhoam said. "Coordinate with Purah's subordinate. If the problem persists, then you will determine if Zelda's expertise is required. If it is pilot error, then as you said earlier, her presence will not be needed."
"I understand, Your Majesty," Link said.
King Rhoam nodded. "It seems this is the most prudent course of action that maintains efficiency. We shall proceed with this plan. Is there any other business you wish to discuss, Purah?"
"That's all for now, Your Majesty," Purah said. "I'm still waiting on updates from Lanayru and the Gerudo Desert."
"Very well," King Rhoam said. "You are dismissed, everyone."
~o~O~o~
When the meeting concluded, Link followed Princess Zelda out of the office. She had a lighter step now and was almost gliding towards her quarters. Stopping at his assigned room, Link opened the door and left it open—the princess had tried sneaking past his room once, and if it hadn't been for Master Impaz's lessons to always mind his surroundings, Princess Zelda might have succeeded. Since then, he'd kept the door open so it would be impossible for her to sneak past his room.
However, the princess didn't seem annoyed as she entered her room and shut the door. Link was quick to pack what he would need for the journey to Tabantha, plus a little extra. He recalled the last time Princess Zelda had traveled to Rito Village and how he had been tasked with clearing the way for her. If memory served, the princess preferred riding her horse, though there was also a carriage to carry… whatever it was she would need.
Link realized that he would need to talk to Captain Auru at lunch about the logistics of the trip.
Done packing, he left his bag by the door and penned a letter to his family, informing them of the news with a heavy heart. He knew he should have been home with them now, but he also felt that what he was doing was necessary. He prayed that his family would understand and forgive him. Tucking the letter away to be sent later, Link waited patiently for the princess to come back out. When she did, she didn't even give him a glance. She resumed walking to the dining hall for lunch.
Once there, the princess took her customary seat next to the king. Link moved to sit with Captain Auru.
"Link, something on your mind?" Auru asked.
Link nodded. "I suppose you heard about my mission tomorrow?"
"I did," Auru replied. "His Majesty was reluctant to let the princess go. Her power is as important as the Master Sword, but he confided to me that he wants the two of you to be able to work together. Don't think it hasn't come to our attention that things between you two have been… tense."
"She's under a lot of pressure," Link said. "I'm not interested in making things worse for her. I have my job, and she is aware of hers."
"True enough. We're hoping this journey will clear the air between you two. Maybe that will help the princess awaken her powers," Auru said. "So, what did you want to talk about?"
"Logistics," Link said. "What will the princess bring with her tomorrow?"
"Surprisingly little," Auru said thoughtfully. "This isn't a diplomatic mission, and without knowing what the Divine Beast needs, Purah can't spare the resources to load up a cart of spare parts for you two to lug around. This is merely an assessment. If Her Highness finds something lacking about Vah Medoh or Vah Rudania, she'll write down what they might need, and we'll send someone to fix the Divine Beasts."
Link nodded. "No carriage this time?"
Auru shook his head. "Speed is key here. You, her, a pair of horses, and bags with enough supplies to ensure a short trip. We expect you both back as quickly as possible."
"Understood."
With his concerns alleviated, Link let Auru eat with his brother, Rauru. Sitting off to the side, Link ate while occasionally keeping an eye out. He saw Midna trot in, happy as could be.
Lately, Midna had become more emboldened about exploring the new home she was living in and was spending her time searching out new scents or enthusiastically greeting people. Link didn't know what the king thought about the uninvited furry guest, but His Majesty hadn't made any comment on it or ordered Link to get rid of her. Yet.
It was probably for the best, because Link felt that it would be the first order he would disobey without hesitation. Link almost chuckled to himself.
Over a wolf of all things.
First, Midna walked up to Link, eyes dolefully wide as she used her cuteness to its maximum effect. Link smiled and gave her only a tiny morsel of food, knowing exactly what was going to happen next.
After happily taking her treat, Midna boldly walked over to Princess Zelda next and gently nudged her foot with her nose and laid down. The princess didn't even blink or break conversation with her father. She surreptitiously started dropping portions of her lunch into Midna's waiting mouth, the quantity easily surpassing Link's meager amount.
"She's going to steal your pet away at this rate," Impa teased. She sat down next to him.
"She's going to make Midna fat," Link muttered. "That wolf's clever. She's double-dipping between the both of us, so I have to regulate and be the bad guy while the princess can just feed her as much as the glutton wants."
Impa laughed and started to tuck in, herself.
Link turned to her. "Impa, can I ask you something?"
"What is it?"
"Whose idea was it to have Princess Zelda pray to the goddesses?"
Impa shook her head. "That sort of came from both the king and the high priest. I've been looking into it, but for some reason, we don't have any records at all regarding the princess's sealing power. And I do mean at all. The tapestry? That could very well be the only visual record the Sheikah possess."
"So… that means the sealing power is only found within the records of the royal family?" Link asked.
"You're very quick. Yes, that's our running theory, but I haven't been able to find anything," Impa answered bitterly. "I think Her Majesty may have known something, but with her passing, if she knew anything, that knowledge was lost with her."
"I see," Link muttered. "That's unfortunate."
"It really is," Impa said.
The idea that prayer would be the answer felt desperate in Link's opinion. While he felt he was as devout as the next Hylian, he preferred to rely on his own abilities, rather than rely on divine intervention. Then again, His Majesty had confided to Link that he was desperate already and that the princess's powers were supposed to be divine.
"Do you think that's the way to do this?" Link asked. "No other ideas?"
Impa half-shrugged while she continued to eat. After swallowing, she said, "I honestly have no idea at all, but without better plans, we might as well try something. As my gram would say, 'nothing yields nothing'—"
"—'so go do something. At best, you'll succeed, and at worst, you'll learn a lesson'," Link said. One corner of his lips quirked. "Personally, I think that was her low-key way of calling me lazy without actually saying it."
Impa let out a giggle, which she hid behind her goblet of water.
"Something funny?" Purah asked. She sat down next to Impa and arched an eyebrow.
Link looked between the sisters and tried very hard to see the similarities. Unlike Auru and Rauru, whose physical similarities were readily apparent, Purah and Impa only shared their Sheikah heritage. In fact, if Purah hadn't identified herself as the older sister, Link would have thought she was the younger sibling. Purah's appearance looked more rounded and more mischievous. Impa's features were more angular, giving her a more serious presence.
"Nothing," Impa said, shaking her head. "Just talking about Gram."
Purah nodded before looking at Link. "I'm glad I caught you, Linky. There's something we're hoping you can test for us."
"Test?" Link repeated, unsure if he should be wary or not.
"Oh, don't be squeamish," Purah said. "All this talk about Vah Medoh reminded me of our time there. You were quite the archer."
"I do okay for myself," Link said.
Purah reached over the table and pinched his cheek. "Aw, so modest!"
Link scrunched up his face. "Funny."
The Sheikah girls giggled at him. Link was determined not to blush and turned his focus back to his lunch.
"Anyway, what I want you to do is test our new bow," Purah said. She turned to Impa. "Remember? We wanted to take some of the techniques we learned from making the sword—the working techniques, anyway—and make something simpler."
"Ah, I remember," Impa said. She turned to Link. "It's a new bow we're making for the Royal Guard. Actually, we're trying to make a lot of different weapons for the Royal Guard, but the problem is the brittleness. For some reason, the weapons keep failing stress tests. We have no idea why."
"However, the bow seems to be working fine," Purah said happily. "As such, I was wondering if you wouldn't mind taking it with you. Test it a bit. Tell us how it feels: accuracy, draw strength, arrow speed, durability, whatever it is you archers like."
"And if it fails?" Link asked dubiously. "Or worse, it breaks?"
"Well… we'll get you a Royal Bow as a backup, then," Purah said. "His Majesty would have given you one if he knew how good you are."
Link's eyebrows rose up in surprise. The Royal Bow was considered to be the pinnacle of bows among Hylians. Link had always coveted one but hadn't had the chance to ask the king.
For Purah to call the Royal Bow a 'backup' made Link wonder how good this new bow would be.
"What's so special about your bow over the Royal Bow?" Link asked.
"We cooked up some stuff back at the lab," Purah said. Shrugging, she added, "Using some tech made by the ancients, as well as help from Master Tomoe, we fashioned an actual working bow. It made her happy, which means it has to be good."
"Tomoe liked it?" Link asked.
Tomoe was one of the premier archers in Kakariko Village. She had been strict, demanding a lot of herself, but had a playful side that was willing to cause a bit of mischief. Master Impaz had brought Link to her to test his archery talents. He'd bested her handily, much to Tomoe's surprise. Rather than be disheartened, she had taken it as a challenge, and she and Link had tried all kinds of trick shots to entertain one another. There had been little for her to teach him that he hadn't already learned under Captain Teboh, but she had shown him how to deflect arrows using his sword.
"Yep," Purah said. "She recommended it to you, and she was being serious about it."
Link finally nodded. "Okay, Purah. I'll test it out for you."
"Great! I'll get one and a Royal Bow for you," Purah said happily. She got up and practically skipped out of the room. "Thanks, Linky. You're doing us a big favor!"
After finishing lunch, Link asked Impa to hand-deliver his letter to his family in Mabe Village the next day. When she agreed, Link nodded his thanks and quickly got up to follow the princess when she left the dining hall, Midna following alongside. She retreated to her laboratory tower. Link stepped inside and waited by the door while she busied herself. He could see detailed schematics of the Divine Beasts taking up large sections of the walls, drawings of the Guardians, but also animals, plants, regions along the periphery. After spending days or perhaps weeks in this room, Link determined the system was organized by importance: the things demanding her focus were front and center, while things that caught her fancy were relegated to the sides.
Princess Zelda was 'taking pictures', as Purah had called it, using the 'camera rune' function of the Sheikah Slate. She captured the images of her schematics, then opened various tomes and started taking pictures of those.
Even with his limited understanding, Link saw the advantages of the Sheikah Slate. Instead of carrying cumbersome parchments and books, it was easier to get a copy of the image onto the Sheikah Slate and peruse the information in one little tool. It would certainly help, since they were not bringing a carriage this time.
Princess Zelda started humming to herself—happily, Link hoped. It was in stark contrast to his current mood, but he was determined not to let his attitude ruin her day or her trip. When Midna started howling in an attempt to emulate the soothing tune the princess was making, Princess Zelda abruptly stopped and turned around. Her eyes widened when she realized that Link had been standing there the entire time. Just as quickly, she turned her back to him and busied herself.
Way to throw me under the carriage, Midna.
Midna continued to howl, though a bit more quietly. Princess Zelda giggled and gave the wolf a loving pat.
"Will Midna be coming with us?" Princess Zelda asked. Her back remained facing him. When Link didn't verbally answer, she glanced over her shoulder.
Link gave her a single nod and remained quiet.
"Good," Princess Zelda murmured. She scratched the wolf around the ears and giggled again when Midna leaned against her legs.
They spent the rest of the day in the tower. Princess Zelda bustled about, checking what to bring and what to merely bring pictures of. By dinnertime, she started fretting when she realized her bags would be getting too full or too heavy for travel. Following dinner, she spent the rest of the evening determining what was invaluable, high-yield, or merely supplementary information.
Eventually satisfied with her choices—Link had his doubts—she announced she was going to get ready for bed.
Link glanced at the full bag placed on the ground and wondered if the princess really would go to sleep or if she would continue to organize, and reorganize, her research. Getting an idea, Link held his hand out and gestured for Midna to stay. Since Link had started living in the castle, Midna had always been sleeping in his room at night, but he figured that if the rapport between wolf and princess was strong enough, at least the princess would have a protector in her room while he remained in his. At the very least, Midna could watch over Princess Zelda if/when she invariably woke and started fretting on what to bring for her trip.
As he left, Link noted that the princess did not call out for him to retrieve Midna, and he figured the action was tacitly approved.
~o~O~o~
Hebra Province – Rito Village
Their journey to Rito Village was completely uneventful. It was a leisurely but extremely quiet ride. Link remained silent while Princess Zelda studied the images on her Sheikah Slate, or she muttered about locked functions and mused aloud about how to unlock them. Midna frolicked around them. As Link had predicted, Din's Season made the travel easy, with clear open roads, warm—almost hot—weather, and clear views.
Link was rather excited to see what Rito Village would be like in Din's Season.
Another member of the Royal Guard, Locke, met up with him and reported that the route ahead was clear. Link told him that their trip would last a week and that they would send a message a couple of days before departure.
Locke saluted and rode off.
It didn't take long for Rito archers to meet them. Some remained flying overhead, but Link was interested in the one leading those that landed.
"Link! It's so good to see you once again!" Teboh said jovially.
Link smiled and dismounted. Teboh reached for a handshake, only to change into a warm embrace. Link returned it fondly.
Putting Link at arm's length, Teboh examined him from head to toe before nodding approvingly. "How are you, Link?"
Link smiled reassuringly before stepping to the side and glancing at Princess Zelda.
Teboh realized his mistake and hastily bowed. "Ah, forgive my trespass, Your Highness. I let my emotions get the best of me."
Still atop her mount, Princess Zelda smiled and nodded. "Think nothing of it, Captain Teboh. It is good to see you once again."
"It is good to see you as well," Teboh said. "We would be honored to escort you to the gates of Rito Village, if Her Highness wishes."
"Your thoughtfulness is appreciated," Princess Zelda said kindly. "Please, lead on."
Link patted Captain Teboh on the shoulder and hopped back onto Epona. Under the watchful eyes of the Rito, it was a quiet and pleasant ride. They arrived at Rito Village in late afternoon. Revali was already there, waiting—impatiently, if Link had to guess—for their arrival.
"About time," Revali said. His gaze was firmly on Link when he said that, but when he turned to Princess Zelda, he bowed respectfully. He was wearing his Champion's scarf. "Welcome back to Rito Village, Your Highness."
"It is good to be back," Princess Zelda said. "It looks quite different during Din's Season."
The weather was cooler than Central Hyrule, almost brisk, but not quite. Both the princess and Link were dressed in lighter clothes. Princess Zelda was wearing a blue-and-white tunic with a long-sleeved white undershirt, fingerless black gloves, a pair of black trousers that fit her quite snugly—not that Link noticed—and a pair of well-worn yet comfortable traveler's boots. Link remained dressed in his Champion's Tunic, tan trousers, gloves, bracers, and boots.
Princess Zelda dismounted. With her under Revali's protection—regardless of Link's personal opinion, he trusted that Revali would at least be responsible enough to look after the princess; if that wasn't enough, Midna stayed with Princess Zelda—Link took Lumine to the Rito Stable and rode back with Epona before dismounting, himself.
"You know where to go, girl?" Link whispered.
Epona nickered and gently licked his ear.
"Thought so," Link said, smiling. "See you soon."
Epona turned around and trotted away.
"Intelligent beast," a voice behind Link commented.
Link turned around and grinned. "I raised her since she was a foal."
"I remember seeing that horse with you when you were here," Teboh said. "The two of you appeared to have fun during your mounted archery lessons."
"It's good to see you again, Captain Teboh," Link said.
Teboh crossed his arms. "Link…"
"Sorry, Teboh. Habit," Link said, abashed.
Teboh chortled and brought Link in for another hug. "How have you been?"
"I'm still six feet above ground," Link morbidly answered. "A lot has happened to me in a short time."
"A Hero, a Champion, and now appointed knight to the princess," Teboh said. "I should say so."
Teboh glanced at the fine leather quiver and black metal bow Link wielded. Link inwardly smiled, thankful that Teboh chose to study those pieces of his equipment over the Master Sword.
"A fine bow you have there," Teboh said.
"Exclusive to the Royal Guard," Link replied. "It's a prototype I'm supposed to be testing."
"I've seen Hylian bows of similar make," Teboh said. "Very rare. If I recall correctly, His Majesty personally gifts that particular type of bow to archers he deems worthy or talented."
"The Royal Bow," Link said. "Yeah, this bow is based off that design, but remade with ancient technology. I have a Royal Bow right over there just in case this one doesn't pan out."
Link pointed at his bags on the ground. Tied to the side was a well-made bow, with golden designs and accents and a purple ribbon around the riser.
Teboh chuckled. "Well, two bows… aren't you the archer?"
Link chuckled as well. "So glad you're impressed."
"May I?" Teboh asked, gesturing to the bow on Link's back. When Link handed it to him, Teboh ran his feathers along the body of the bow. Unlike the Royal Bow, the Royal Guard Bow was darker in color, using blacks and deep purples. "You're to test this?"
Link nodded. "I haven't had the opportunity to use it yet."
"Well, I daresay you'll have the opportunity now," Teboh said. "I would like to see how much you've improved."
"I haven't relaxed in my training," Link assured.
"Glad to hear that," Teboh said. He returned the bow. "Your quiver is of a fine make as well."
"A birthday gift from my family," Link said. He patted the quiver and drew comfort from it.
"A beautiful gift," Teboh said kindly. "Come. We lost the daylight, but tomorrow promises another day."
"As soon as the princess and I are settled in," Link said. They walked into the village and started climbing up the ramps.
"Indeed. For now, how about I take you to see Rami?" Teboh asked. He had a wide smile on his beak.
"Rami?" Link repeated.
"My mate."
Link smiled. He picked up his bag and slung it over his shoulder. "I'd love to."
Teboh insisted on taking Link's bag before leading the way. As they walked up through the village, Teboh said, "You might not know this yet, but Master Revali developed a new technique in the hopes of besting you the next time you clash."
"I didn't know," Link said. "What is it?"
"It's quite remarkable, really," Teboh said. "He's able to summon a gale of wind spontaneously beneath him, allowing him to instantly take flight from a standing position."
Link nodded. "Makes sense. During the tournament, my strategy to beat him was to take away his air advantage. He probably realized that was a potential weakness and wanted to overcome it. He can summon this gale anywhere?"
"So it would seem," Teboh said. "He's been using it constantly. Practice mostly, I suspect, though…"
"You can't rule out the idea that he might be showing off," Link muttered.
"… No," Teboh quietly said. But then he grinned. "However, when Master Revali returned from Hyrule Castle to prepare for his role as our Champion, his feathers were rather ruffled. From what I could tell, it had something to do with you."
Link tilted his head. "I must be mad to ask, but I'm going to anyway: what was it?"
Teboh shrugged. "I don't know. He was light on the details. Something about how your new technique can't possibly be better than his."
Link racked his memories before rolling his eyes. "Oh, that."
"What is it?" Teboh asked.
"A shield technique," Link answered. "It's based off a technique my friend, the Goron Champion Daruk, uses. It's a work in progress."
"Hmm… well, I don't wish to speak ill of Master Revali, but I daresay that he might hope to put you in your place one day," Teboh said. "What place that is, I have no idea."
Link smiled. "Thanks for the warning, Teboh."
~o~O~o~
Link had dinner with Teboh's family while Princess Zelda dined with Chief Komali and Revali. That suited Link just fine, since he couldn't even feign interest in whatever diplomatic grandstanding had to be happening. The company of friends was something Link desired at the moment.
Rami was delighted to meet Link and opened different topics of conversation throughout the night. Link was more than happy to oblige; it kept him occupied and his emotions from becoming despondent. Teboh was more than willing to throw in some tales about Link's reckless streak and his desire for challenges.
It was a lovely first night at Rito Village.
Early the next morning, Link and Midna both saw Princess Zelda off as Teboh carried Zelda towards Vah Medoh for the first day of work. They ate breakfast with Rami, toured the village a bit, and played with some of the chicks that were completely interested in Midna, having never seen a wolf up close before. They were delighted to give Midna all the rubs she could want when she flopped over onto her back, all grins and lolling tongue.
Letting the children play, Link walked over to one of the many platforms a Rito would leap off from to take flight and looked up. Vah Medoh was circling above the village. Watching it fly brought back memories of his earliest days as a squire… and the trouble that he'd seemed to attract.
At least it's flying.
As he studied Vah Medoh in earnest from his position on the platform, he was suddenly buffeted by winds. Link kept his balance, even as the winds' intensity increased. Revali appeared, riding the gales in a feat of acrobatics that most Rito could not emulate, before landing on the railing in front of Link.
Impressive as it was, though, the entrance was soured by the fact that Revali had to open his beak.
"Impressive, I know," Revali said with his usual mix of confidence and arrogance. "Very few can achieve a mastery of the sky. Yet I have made an art of creating an updraft that allows me to soar. It's considered to be quite the masterpiece of aerial techniques, even among the Rito."
Link kept his face utterly neutral as Revali flexed and postured about his favorite topic: himself.
"With proper utilization of my superior skills, I see no reason why we couldn't easily dispense with Ganon," Revali continued, oblivious to Link's thoughts. Revali hopped off his perch and circled around Link, who kept his stoicism as Revali pretended to scrutinize him.
Even though they already knew what the Rito thought of the Hylian Hero.
"Now, then, my ability to explore the firmament is certainly of note… But let's not—pardon me for being so blunt—let's not forget the fact that I am the most skilled archer of all the Rito. Yet despite these truths, it seems that I have been tapped to merely assist you."
Why, oh why couldn't Teboh be the Champion?
Revali's eyes locked onto the Master Sword, and he pointed at it as if he had found something profound. "All because you happen to have that little darkness-sealing sword on your back."
Link clenched his jaw but relented from glaring. Of all people, Link did not want Revali to be the one to remind him of the Master Sword… and the memories associated with it.
Revali was looking away now, so if he thought there was something to Link's expression, he didn't see it. "I mean, it's just… asinine."
What isn't asinine with you?
"Unless… you think you can prove me wrong?" Revali suddenly asked. He moved right into Link's face and smiled thinly. "Maybe we should just settle this one-on-one?"
Link arched an eyebrow at the challenge, but his instincts told him that like Revali's attitude, his words were about to be made pointless.
"But where…?" Revali asked aloud. "Oh, I know! How about up there?!"
Revali grandly gestured to Vah Medoh. Either it had completed a circuit around Rito Village, or Revali had commanded it to fly overhead.
"Oh, you must pardon me," Revali said snidely. He abruptly turned around and spread his wings. "I forgot you have no way of making it up to that Divine Beast on your own!"
With one flap, he summoned his winds and took to the sky instantly. It was the first time Link had seen Revali's new technique, and like it or not, he was impressed.
"Good luck sealing the darkness!" Revali crowed as he flew back up to Vah Medoh and where Princess Zelda was currently at.
Link watched Revali fly away before rolling his eyes. "Yeah, you better fly away."
Being honest with himself, Link was rather surprised at his self-control. A part of him, a very large part of him, had wanted punch Revali so hard that his beak would crack or pluck every last feather off his wings and permanently ground the pompous ass. However, just as the thought came, it was pushed aside when an image of his father was frowning disappointingly at him, and Link found that was far worse than anything Revali could do or say.
"We know your worth, so do not let him redefine it."
Link sighed. The image of his father persisted in his mind's eye while Leon's words echoed in his ears, and he knew it wasn't going to go away.
Somehow Link's feet carried him through the village until he was standing at the old archery range. It had fallen into disarray, much to his disappointment. No doubt all the Rito archers were using the Flight Range now, to test their ability to navigate the winds, narrow canyon walls, and still strike their targets under harrowing conditions.
Link was sure that sort of training would produce some exemplary archers.
"I see you found your way here," someone said.
Smiling, Link turned and nodded to Teboh. "I remember how much fun I had here. It made all of the exercise you put me through worth it."
Teboh chortled. "What impressed me the most was that you never quit. I could almost feel the raw determination roll off you."
"I just tried my best," Link mumbled.
Teboh patted him on the shoulder. "I know."
Link looked to see that the exercise area remained in good condition. "Everything there is still working?"
"For now," Teboh said. "I'm sure it will all be moved to the Flight Range one day. A hut there can accommodate all of the equipment."
"The Flight Range, hmm?" Link mused. "You know… I recall you once thought that I should try some mid-air archery…"
"And Liena shot the idea down," Teboh said. "Too dangerous."
"Well, I was a 'hatchling' at the time," Link said. He was grinning now.
Teboh's eyes widened in delight. "Oh-ho. Are you game to try?"
"I'm game to learn," Link said. "I have a paraglider with me."
Teboh rubbed the underside of his beak in thought. "The winds should provide enough lift… doubtful you'd slam into the canyon walls… ah, but you'd have to fold your paraglider, draw your bow and arrow… maybe get one or two shots before you need to use your glider again… Would you be able to coordinate like that?"
"I've been learning how to quick draw with my bow," Link said. "Started practicing after the tournament. I learned that I needed to change equipment rapidly, especially under fast-paced, high-pressure situations."
Teboh's eyebrows raised in surprise. "Truly? How fast do you think you can do this?"
"Only one way for you to see, isn't there?" Link asked mischievously. "I haven't tried with this bow yet, so it's time to see how well it performs."
Teboh grinned. "We shall leave at the crack of dawn. Master Revali will be with the princess aboard Vah Medoh, so we shall have the range to ourselves until the others come claim it. I would like to see how you can do mid-air archery… while falling."
It was a testament to either Link's courage or mental state that he grinned back and nodded excitedly.
~o~O~o~
Hebra Province – The Flight Range
Early the next morning, there was just enough sunlight to be able to see the targets. Once again, Princess Zelda was examining Vah Medoh. Revali was with her. The Flight Range would be empty for a few hours before other Rito archers would show up.
Link felt a blast of cold air and smiled. He was standing on the wooden landing, looking down at the circular canyon. It was the first time Link got the chance to see the Flight Range up close. He could see the appeal behind the new location now. Standing there, it made the old range he'd studied at look absolutely boring by comparison.
"Exhilarating, isn't it?" Teboh asked.
Link nodded. "Revali was showing off his new technique to me yesterday."
Teboh nodded back. "He developed it right here. The ability to generate updrafts of winds on command. It's remarkable. He can regain flight instantly at will."
"He's been busy," Link murmured.
"He didn't take his loss well," Teboh said. "However, it's a testament to his desire to improve himself, rather than make excuses."
Something going for him, I suppose.
"As I recall, you claimed you haven't relaxed in your training. Now is the time to prove it," Teboh teased.
Link looked at the various targets around the canyon walls and began judging the best way to tackle them… while falling. Or gliding.
Cinching up his quiver, Link checked to make sure the arrows wouldn't fall out, checked his paraglider, and readied his new bow. He was as ready as he could be.
Without fanfare, Link leaped from the precipice, arrow drawn and nocked. He had three more arrows clutched in his fingers. He only managed to launch two arrows before pulling out his paraglider and abruptly arresting his fall. He promptly felt himself rising, faster than he'd estimated. His grin became wider. Every time he used his paraglider, it was always for a slow and soft descent to the ground. With the winds from the canyon, it almost felt like he was flying, causing him to whoop and laugh in delight.
It took a few tries, but Link eventually fell into a rhythm as he alternated between using his bow and his paraglider. Having never used the Flight Range before, Link floated around, assessing the distances, the locations, and the timing between flying and shooting. He also had to get used to the buffeting winds, which forced him to learn how to adjust his grip on the paraglider, shift his weight, and reorient himself. It was a novel experience compared to his times when he had fallen off Gut Check Rock and used his paraglider to float to the ground.
When Link finally struck all the targets, he used his paraglider to return to the landing platform.
Teboh was grinning widely. "You managed to strike all twenty targets. A few were off-center, though, but no mistakes, at least!"
Link nodded and took a deep breath. "Yeah, the winds made hitting the targets harder than I thought. I need to learn to compensate for that."
Teboh patted him on the shoulder, still smiling. "Everything is a lesson. I'm glad you see that."
Link looked over at the Flight Range. "You know, every lesson is better learned with practice."
Teboh nodded approvingly. "That is true."
Link and Teboh spent the next hour training at the Flight Range. Teboh demonstrated his skill as he flew around striking at all twenty targets while Link watched. Link was unsure how helpful it could be, since he couldn't fly, but it was exhilarating to watch his mentor take a turn at the range.
Despite his personal reservations, Link was sure that Revali would have been a sight to behold had he been there.
When other Rito archers arrived for their practice runs, Link and Teboh decided to call it quits for the morning and return to Rito Village.
"As always, you continue to astound me," Teboh said. "So much improvement over such a short time. You will have mastered the Flight Range within a few days, if not by tomorrow."
Link smiled. "It's nice to know that my bow is in fine working order, too."
"Indeed," Teboh said. "I don't know if it matches up to what the Rito make, but it seems to serve you well."
Glancing at Teboh's Falcon Bow, Link merely shrugged. Link had personally used one when he'd grown strong enough, and while it was a fine bow, it wasn't a good fit for him. It was probably a Hylian/Rito thing.
"Link, forgive me for asking, but are you all right?" Teboh asked.
"I'm fine," Link said, almost automatically. "Why ask?"
"Hmm… it seems as if you're… I'm not sure how to put this…" Teboh muttered. "You're more… reticent?"
"Am I?" Link asked.
Teboh looked at him askance before shaking his head. "Perhaps my imagination. Shall I see you back at Rito Village?"
Link nodded. "Eventually. I was thinking of going for a ride."
"Enjoy yourself, then," Teboh said.
They parted ways. Teboh took to the skies to return to his duties, likely patrolling around Rito Village. Link walked up to Epona and Midna, and rode off.
Link's idea of a ride was less about aimless wandering and more about monster hunting. He found two monster camps hidden within the forests west of Lake Totori—the trees were the only cover from the Rito flying high above. There were Moblins and Ice-Breath Lizalfos, both colored to match the scant snows that still littered Hebra during the summer.
Testing his new bow at the Flight Range was one thing, but nothing beat practical application. Midna was helpful, giving him advance warnings of monsters with a small, quiet growl, teeth bared, and posture low and alert.
Link loosed arrow after arrow, taking down monsters stealthily, and preventing the perimeter guard from alerting others for as long as possible. Eventually, the fall of a monster's body attracted the attention of the others. Still, Link stood his ground and continued to use his bow. Midna attacked next, running after monsters and dragging them from cover to allow Link to strike before they could hit her.
Link still hated having to do this, but what he hated more was the idea of one of the chicks at Rito Village being hurt. It made the task infinitely more bearable.
One of the Moblins blew a horn, calling for more reinforcements. Link checked his quiver, saw that he had more than enough arrows for the fight ahead, and grimly nocked another.
~o~O~o~
Hebra Province – Rito Village
Later that evening, Link was sitting by himself, eating dinner, and checking a map. There was also a pile of wooden arrow shafts, fletching, and arrowheads on the table, pushed off to the side.
An increasingly familiar aristocratic voice sounded off near his shoulder. "What are you doing?"
Link looked up at Princess Zelda, a little surprised that she was willing to seek him out and initiate conversation with him. He gathered his wits quickly enough to answer, though.
"I'm mapping our route from here to the Great Plateau," Link said. "I have to let the Royal Guard know how we're getting there so they can clear the way for us. After that, I'm looking at different routes to Eldin. The most direct route isn't necessarily the safest."
Princess Zelda nodded and looked over the map he had laid out. He obligingly pushed the parchment over to her so that she could study it better.
She appeared satisfied with their route, because she nodded at him and pushed the map back. Link took it and continued to finalize the last leg of their trip.
"I-I wanted to thank you," Princess Zelda suddenly said. "For speaking up. About allowing me to go to Death Mountain."
Link looked back up at her and nodded.
"A-and for letting Midna sleep alongside me," Princess Zelda added, her voice quieter now. "It was very thoughtful of you."
Again, Link nodded, though his eyebrow arched.
So that's where she's been.
He had thought Midna snuck out to hunt in the forest in the evenings now that they were in the wilds. He certainly hadn't given her any such orders except for their last night at Hyrule Castle.
The princess appeared more uncomfortable now. Before Link could speak, she quickly said her farewells and promptly walked away.
Confused by her behavior, Link still marveled over the fact that she had initiated another conversation with him. Hoping that a couple of barriers had been knocked down, he turned back to his map and continued working.
Once the routes were established, Link drafted a letter, tucked it away to be sent away in the morning, and continued crafting new arrows to replace the ones he had used throughout the day.
Cries of delight reached his ears while he was attaching some fletching. Link looked up to see Midna trotting down the ramp. On her back were at least four chicks, happily riding Midna as the wolf walked towards him. Link caught her chewing on something, and when Midna saw where his gaze was, she swallowed quickly to hide the damning evidence.
Link shook his head. "You're going to get so fat…"
The children on her back giggled, tipping off Link who the culprits were that had given Midna a second dinner. Coupled with Princess Zelda's tendency to spontaneously feed Midna whenever the urge struck her, and Link knew he would have to go out on monster hunts with Midna more often.
"So. Fat," Link dryly said.
At least Midna had the decency to look remorseful.
A chorus of cheeps and laughter floated back at him as Midna decided to run off rather than deal with the guilt trip Link was trying to impose on her. The cries of the little birds urging her to go faster distantly echoed and faded away.
Link chuckled and returned to crafting arrows.
~o~O~o~
Hebra Province – The Flight Range
True to Teboh's prediction, Link finally got the hang of the Flight Range, its winds, and a newfound skill with his paraglider the very next day. In the latter half of their practice for the day, Link was able to hit the center of all twenty targets—only a few dead-on bullseyes, though—and all within the thirty-second time limit, which was the time that all the Rito archers were expected to beat.
And he did it without flying, strictly speaking.
Teboh praised his accomplishment, but Link claimed he could do better. He had started experimenting with launching multiple arrows at once, individually angling each arrow to hit a target. Manipulating the arrows took practice, but Link was adamant. By hitting multiple targets per draw, he shaved whole seconds off his time. Teboh spent time teaching Link how to draw arrows out of his quiver quickly but not carelessly. Link had to learn how to grasp his arrows smoothly, to avoid dropping any, while being able to nock each one along the bowstring and having each arrow comfortably fit between his fingers. It felt like learning archery all over again.
"If you'd learned all of these techniques before the Four Swords, you would have beaten Master Revali flawlessly," Teboh said, which he punctuated with a cheeky wink.
Link chuckled. "That would've endeared us to one another."
Embracing his new training, Link knew that if he was able to master the Flight Range—with its crazy winds, the split-second reaction time required to draw and launch arrows in mid-air through hazardous conditions, and the tight time limit—he would be able to reach a new level of archery he would never have gotten to on his own.
He felt exhilarated if he had to be honest with himself.
Even Teboh was surprised by the amount of effort and passion Link was putting into his training. Not that Teboh was complaining; he wholeheartedly approved of Link's dedication to archery. They trained early in the morning, when Revali was strutting around on Vah Medoh with Princess Zelda, and left as other Rito archers came. Link would then take his lessons with him into the wilds and continue for a time before returning in the evening to Rito Village to craft more arrows, eat, and rest.
Near the end of the week, Link was finally able to strike all twenty targets in fifteen seconds or less, with most of the arrows right on or close to the bullseye.
Grinning widely, Link popped open his paraglider and flew all the way back up to the Flight Range hut.
"I-I don't believe it," Teboh muttered. He looked to be in complete shock. His eyes were darting around, checking the targets. "You… this… but… wait… how?"
After landing next to him, Link put his paraglider away and stared at Teboh curiously. "What is it?"
"I think you may have just beaten Master Revali's time!" Teboh cried out in shock. "Amazing! Let's try it once more! I must time you accurately. Oh, wait until the Chief Komali hears about this!"
"What was his time?" Link asked. He had a bad feeling about this, and he wasn't one to question his instincts.
"Fourteen point nine seconds," Teboh said. "I wasn't timing you, not precisely, but you may have just beaten it by a fraction of a second! If you can do it one more time, I can make sure—"
"Actually, let's not," Link said quickly. He knew they were alone, but he looked around, afraid that someone—maybe even Revali himself—would inexplicably show up.
Teboh blinked, and his beak was agape. "What? Why not?"
"I'm here for practice, not accolades," Link said quietly. "Plus, I don't want Revali losing focus on his responsibilities. If he were to hear what I did…"
Teboh heaved a sigh and nodded. "Then he would be back here, day in and day out, practicing until he not only beat your time, but ensured that it would never be beaten, which may mean he would neglect his duty as a Champion."
"It's possible, maybe even likely," Link muttered.
"But… it seems so cruel not to tell anyone of your achievement," Teboh said.
Link tilted his head and smiled faintly. "Well, youknow. And that's enough for me."
Teboh blinked before slowly smiling back. "I don't think I told you this, but I once told Her Highness that I was glad that you were selected to be the Hero of Legend. Hearing you say that only affirms my feelings."
"Thank you, Teboh," Link quietly said. "We should go. The others will be arriving soon."
They left the Flight Range hut. Overhead, they could see Rito archers arriving.
"Are you sure about this?" Teboh asked.
"I'm sure," Link replied calmly. "It's fine. I learned a lot this past week, which can only help me going forward. Thank you again."
Teboh shook his head and chuckled. "Link, I honestly have no idea what else I could teach you. But… watching you? I feel much better about our chances against Ganon."
Link smiled. "Thanks."
As always, they split up once Link got to his horse. Teboh flew off to conduct his patrols while Link rode elsewhere, doing what his mother would likely dub 'looking for trouble'.
Link and Princess Zelda were nearing the end of their time in Hebra and were expected to meet with High Priest Rauru at the Eastern Abbey within two days. Link had no idea what the princess had found, repaired, or determined within Vah Medoh, but as far as he was concerned, as long as the Divine Beast did its job, he wasn't going to complain.
He had his own troubles to deal with.
After going through his day's regular routines, he trudged back to the room Teboh provided for him after dinner. After taking off his equipment and placing them next to his bag, Link drew the Master Sword and propped it against a wall.
He sat down on the floor and studied the legendary blade; he memorized the color, the markings, and the overall design. To date, his relationship with the sword remained endlessly complicated.
It hurt, more than Link would have thought, to be away from home and his family during this time. He should have been home with them. He should have been paying his respects. And in many ways, he blamed the Master Sword for being the source of his woes.
But at the same time, he knew what his duty was. And he knew that he had to adhere to it.
No matter how much it hurt.
"You just need to make my life complicated, don't you?" Link muttered to the Master Sword. He spent the next few hours having a staring contest with it, not quite glaring, but definitely not friendly.
Later that night, when he was sure that most of the village was asleep, Link got up, still fully dressed, and started walking towards the front gate of Rito Village. He didn't leave, though. Near the entrance was a small shrine with a statue of the Goddess Hylia. Princess Zelda had spent a lot of time in front of it, praying for her powers.
Link's intentions were far more personal. He hated that he was away from Mabe Village. He hated that the only thing he could do was send letters to his family. And he hated that he wasn't there for them during this time.
Somehow Link knew that his father would forgive him. Even if he was a few days late for the first anniversary of his father's passing.
With one more cursory glance to make sure he was alone, Link knelt before the shrine, closed his eyes, and clasped his hands in prayer.
Great Goddesses, I pray to thee in memory of my father, Revan Faron…
~o~O~o~
Author's Notes:
No, the durability mechanic of Breath of the Wild will not come into play here. That was for the sake of the game. I'm just poking fun at it.
As far as Link's skills go, look up on YouTube some of the combat masters of Breath of the Wild in both archery and melee. That's what I'm aiming for.