A Hero's Ballad

by ArtemisPrince006

A Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild story. This will be a trilogy. The first book takes place 100 years before the start of Breath of the Wild. There will be lots of action and adventure and things will get pretty dark, however ultimately it's a story of how two unlikely people come together to overcome incomparable odds, terrible loses, and find love.

26. The Zora Champion

Nightmares plagued my sleep. I tossed and turned all night, trying to quite my befuddled mind, however even sleep provided no reprieve. For the first time since I had known him, I rose earlier than Link, growing restless from staring up at the tent's canopy.

Quietly I left the tent and began to build a fire, the coals from last night's fire still hot. Within a few minutes, a nice fire was crackling to life. I sat besides it, for some reason feeling better sitting outside rather than inside a tent. I tilted my head up to gaze at the sky, the stars growing faint as light began to poke out from the East.

The answer remains right in front of you.

Hylia's words echoed in my mind, over and over again. It was as if the answer should be obvious, but I had no idea what she was referring to. Was it to be taken literally or figuratively? The Deku Tree had provided some advice... perhaps a connection or an idea I had not acted on. The most likely answer we had come to was the Spring of Wisdom. Was that truly the answer? I clenched my fists; I didn't have time to wait until I turned 17! That was months away. We couldn't afford to wait that long.

I let out a long, frustrated exhale. As for a connection... which one? If I was to take it literally, the one right in front of me was Link. My eyes slipped over to the tent where he slept. But was that really it? In a way it did make sense that our connection would be important since we shared a destiny, but how was it going to awaken my powers?

I put my face in my hands, despondent. At that moment I felt truly hopeless. Everyone I loved was doomed to die horrible deaths because of me. I felt the darkness in my mind begin to creep up.

You're useless, Zelda. Painful thoughts began to assault my mind. A complete and utter failure.

I shuddered. "Please." I begged. "Not now."

A shuffling noise caught my attention and I looked over to see Link emerge from the tent, his eyes instantly finding me. Relief flooded me as the darkness inside began to fade away. Link walked over to me and put a gentle hand on my shoulder. "You ok?" His eyes were full of concern.

I swallowed, "Just couldn't sleep." I muttered.

Link sat down next to me, "Did you want to talk about it?" I shook my head. Link paused for a second. "Can you at least tell me what's upset you?"

I looked down at my hands, knowing I should at least give him an idea of why I was acting so strangely. Taking a deep breath, I said, "You know how I have dreams about the champions?"

"Yes."

"Well they're visions from Hylia. And she can give them to me at any time apparently. Not just while I'm sleeping." I explained.

"So she showed you something." Link surmised.

I nodded.

We didn't say much after this, although I could tell Link was grateful that I had shared that with him. He made us some tea and we sat around the dwindling fire, sipping our hot beverage. Link sat next to me and I found it soothing to have him close to me, as if he was able to chase away the terror that had seized me. Just by being there, he gave me hope that somehow we could find a way.

I felt my eyelids grow heavy as I gazed at the fire, dawn upon us. Soft rays of light were beginning to shine down into the quarry, giving everything a soft glow. Yet my sleepless night was finally catching up to me and before long everything faded away.

Link woke me up a few hours later. We quickly set out, back to the stables on the Master Cycle. I dropped Link off at the stables so he could collect our things and get the horses ready while I drove up to Robbie's lab. Purah and Robbie were both busy at work, but nonetheless were happy to see me. We said a quick goodbye and assured each other we would be reunited again at the new lab, ready to work on this new guardian technology. Seeing them so hard at work also gave me hope that we still had a chance.

Walking down to the stables, I found Link waiting for me, the horses ready to go. I climbed onto Icefire's back and we began to trot through Akkala, the sun already high in the sky. We probably wouldn't reach Zora's Domain today, especially considering we'd have to drop the horses off at the nearest stables.

We continued on our way, passing by the citadel. The roads became much busier as we traveled, and only started to decrease in traffic once we passed under the gate that led into Akkala. Soon we were in the wetlands, going west towards the stables. By the time we reached them it was dark. I paid for the night as well as boarding for the horses while we would be in Zora's Domain. The remainder of the night I spent packing my backpack and fell asleep early.

The following morning Link and I set off on foot. It was a beautiful morning and easy going as we traveled through the marshes. As we neared the cliffs and mountainous region that surrounded Zora's Domain, it began to rain. It was a soft drizzle, but soon both Link and I were soaked through and it made traveling hard as the rocks had become slippery. We carefully followed the winding path through Lanayru, rising higher and higher in elevation. We crossed several bridges, the water below moving swiftly.

Finally we emerged from a stretch of forest and were greeted by the beautiful architecture that was Zora's Domain. The city was surrounded by cliffs and built high above Ruto Lake in which the Zora River budded from. The shiny blue rock that made up the city had a beautiful sheen and made the place look more like a work of art. Zora's Domain was by far the most beautiful construction in all of Hyrule; even the Hyrule Castle paled in comparison.

We walked to the bridge, my eyes still taking in the marvel that was Zora's Domain. Gorgeous archways and channels ran through the city. At its center was a giant fish, its open maw where the King's throne resided. Its tail curved high into the sky, each scale carved out with precise accuracy. Slowly Link and I walked along the bridge, passing under a number of arches. I ran a hand along the railing, the stone cool and smooth to the touch. I stopped to look down, finding it unnerving how high above the water we were. While not afraid of heights, I didn't like the idea of falling to my death; although diving into Lake Ruto was a common sport the Zora as well as other clans participated in. So I told myself it mustn't be that dangerous.

Soon we reached the entrance, two guards stationed in front of it. Both were holding a beautifully-made spear. One was a grown Zora with brown coloration, while the second was younger, probably a teenager in Zora years. She was dark blue.

"Rivan?" Link said as we neared the guards, his eyes studying the two Zora. "Dunma?"

The older guard leaned forward, narrowing his eyes at Link. Within seconds they widened, "Link! Why, you look so much older! I forget how quickly the other clans age." The male Zora, who I presumed was Rivan, looked behind Link, arching an eyebrow when he saw me, "You're not with your father? Who is this with you?"

Link motioned to me, "This is Princess Zelda."

I stepped forward and greeted the two Zora, "I am here on official business. Link is my knight. Please, is there a place we can stay? I wish to pay my respects to King Dorephan, however I'd rather not do so looking like a drowned rat."

Rivan bowed deeply to me, "Of course. My apologies, Princess Zelda. I should have known it was you. You so resemble your mother."

The corner of my lip twitched at his remark. "Yes." I said in a neutral tone, "I have been told such before. Please, if you could let King Dorephan know I am here. I have several matter sto discuss with him."

"Of course, Princess." Rivan replied. He turned to the younger Zora. "Dunma, please lead these two to the inn. Return here once your'e done." He then looked back at me. "I shall inform our King and have word sent to you."

"I appreciate it."

The Zora bowed once more and then Dunma led Link and I into Zora's Domain. The city was even more spectacular up close. As we went through the city, we earned several interesting looks, and I could hear the gossip already starting to spread. They all knew who I was from my uncanny resemblance to my mother.

Dunma stopped by a building further back in Zora's Domain, underneath the throne. A female red Zora stood at the front, her eyes growing wide as she saw me. "Princess Zelda!" She exclaimed and gave a swift bow. "It has been so long since you last visited Zora's Domain. My, how you have grown. You look just like the Queen." She gave me a sincere smile.

I smiled back, although it did not reach my eyes. "Hello. Is this the inn?"

"Yes." The Zora replied. "Please, come in. You and your knight can have your pick from any available bed."

"Thank you." I said, reaching for my wallet.

"Oh no." The Zora said, stopping me, "Please, stay here free of charge, Princess."

"It is no trouble." I assured her. "You do have a business to run."

The Zora shook her head. "After everything the Queen did for the Zora, it is the least I can do to allow her daughter to stay a few nights in my inn for free."

I frowned, however I saw that I wasn't going to win this one. "Then I thank you for your generosity."

The Zora breathed an easy sigh. Link and I quickly claimed two beds and changed out of our wet clothes. It was still raining, a slow but persistent drizzle. It made everything feel damp. I sat on my bed, bringing my knees to my chest. It had been many years since I visited Zora's Domain... it wasn't that I had anything against the Zora, and Lanayru was beautiful. But being here had been a painful reminder when I was younger, thus I avoided it.

"Princess Zelda?" A voice called and I looked to see a green Zora. "King Dorephan is free to see you."

I got up, knowing I wasn't dressed properly to greet a King, however it would have to do given the circumstances. "Lead the way." I said, following the Zora up to the second level. As I entered the mouth of the giant fish, I saw the giant Zora that was their King. However he wasn't alone. Standing next to the throne room was a pretty female Zora. She appeared to be older, fully grown and had red scales. She wore a headpiece, several gold necklaces, and a golden belt. Based on that, she clearly was royalty... was this the Zora Princess?

Bowing, I addressed the Zora King. "You look well, King Dorephan. It is a pleasure to see you after all these years."

He smiled at me, "Yes, I can say the same, Princess. You were but a small child last time I saw you, but you have grown much. If I didn't know better, I would swear that the Queen was in front of me right now."

I gave a hollow smile, "Thank you."

The King motioned to the red Zora beside him, "This, as you may have deduced, is my daughter, Mipha. I think the two of you would enjoy each other's company. I hope the two of you form a lasting bond as I did with the Hyrulian Queen."

I glanced at Mipha and gave a polite bow. "I would like that." I replied automatically. Turning back to the King, I redirected. "But at the moment, I'm sure you are curious as to why I'm here."

King Dorephan gave a brief nod, "Yes. It is unusual for you to be here. I assume it is something of importance."

"Yes." I took a step closer to him, "I'm sure you are away of the rumors about Calamity Ganon's return."

King Dorephan frowned, his eyes suddenly troubled. "Yes. I am aware."

I began to explain to the King and Princess that they were more than just rumors: that Calamity Ganon would return, probably sooner than later. To prepare for that, I had set out on a journey to ally the clans together and recruit champions from the clans.

"I see." King Dorephan gazed out onto Zora's Domain, his eyes firm. "The Zora will help you. We will not sit back while such an evil entity threatens our land. As for a champion, did you have someone in mind? We have many renowned warriors."

I bit my lip, recalling the Zora champion's description: Serene like water. Give her the power of healing... Her... "I am looking for someone specific." Deciding King Dorephan was trustworthy, I decided to tell him everything - about the goddess's instructions to me and the powers the champions received. "The Goddess informed me the Zora Champion would be serene like water." I finished.

Dorephan stroked his chin, contemplating my words. "That is not much to go on."

"The champion is female too." I added. "I know that isn't much additional information, however my knight, who is familiar with the Zora, mentioned the name Lera. Perhaps it is her?"

Dorephan studied me. "She is a medic in our military. She has some skill fighting, as well. And her deposition is always calm and steady. I could definitely see the description referring to her."

My eyes shifted to Mipha, the other female Zora Link had mentioned. "Link also mentioned Princess Mipha's name."

"Mipha!"

"Link?"

The King and princess spoke at the same time. I glanced between the two, slightly alarmed. Dorephan looked as if my words upset him, while the Princess appeared shocked.

"Is Link really with you?" Mipha took several steps toward me. Her eyes looked hopeful.

"He is my knight." I answered.

Mipha opened her mouth to say something, however the King cut her off. "Now is not the time, Mipha." He turned his steely gaze to me. "It would be an honor to have someone of my lineage to serve directly under the goddess. However I can not allow my daughter to become a champion. Although she has a serene and peaceful mind, she is a skilled warrior and diplomat. She isn't a healer. I do not think she would be the best fit."

Seeing the King wasn't going to budge on the issue, I did not press it. Instead I bowed my head, "I understand."

He sighed, "Forgive me, Princess Zelda. But she is my only daughter. I can be a bit protective of her."

"There is no need to apologize, King Dorephan." It was plain to see how much the king loved and cherished his daughter. The look of love he gave her stung me. How polar opposite their relationship was to mine and my father's, despite us having similar positions.

"I shall send for Lera and inform her myself. I am sure you are quite tired after your journey here. Rest for today and tomorrow I'll request a meeting between us, my sergeant, and Lera. Bring your knight too. It will be good to see Link again. I'm sure he has grown up just as much as you have, Princess."

"Thank you King Dorephan." I bowed my head again. "I look forward to meeting with you again tomorrow." My eyes shifted to the Princess and I could tell she wished to say something, but she remained silent, averting her eyes from me.

I turned and left the throne room, making my way down the stairs in a hurry so as not to get too wet from the rain. Link was at the inn, reading his book. He put the book down and sat up. "Talk to King Dorephan?"

"Yes. He is willing to help us. And he believes Lera is the Zora Champion."

Link mulled this news over. "Lera is one of the best healers the Zora have. I think she fits the description."

I nodded, "So I've been told. I just hope she is the right one. We've done well so far in identifying champions." I shook my head. "Perhaps I'm worrying too much about it." I walked over and sat next to Link on his bed. "I met Mipha." I told him, "She acted like she knew you well."

Link's head perked up at my words. "Yes. I knew her, and her younger brother quiet well. When I came here, I sometimes would play with Sidon, her brother. Mipha was older than us, well I suppose Sidon was older than me to, although mentally he was closer to my age. Mipha was kind of like our babysitter. Always watching over us and taking care of us if we got hurt."

I smiled, "She sounds like an older sister."

Link grinned, "Kind of. Although I bet she looks the same as she did all those years ago. I, however, must look very different."

"True. You may look older than her now." I responded, although Mipha still looked a little older than Link and I in Hylian years. "The King has requested we meet with him tomorrow. Lera will be there along with his sergeant. I assume Mipha will be there as well. You can catch up then."

Link shrugged at this. "It will be nice to see her."

"I'm sure. I also look forward to meeting Lera."

"Any dreams yet?" Link asked.

I paused, "No." I said, almost dreading the dream now as I recalled the pain from the last visions. I hoped this would be the last one for awhile.

A messenger came later that day, informing me that Link and I would meet with the King for breakfast tomorrow morning. I thanked the messenger and relayed the information to Link. We didn't do much with the rest of our day, although there wasn't much time left in the day as it was already evening. Instead we bought some local food, seeing as we couldn't make a campfire, and told each other stories we were had heard as children. I was surprised how into it both Link and I got, changing our voices to fit a certain character. It made the rainy evening pass quickly until both of us were ready to sleep. I glanced at Link, a soft smile on his face. A pang went through my chest as I stared at him. Seeing his smile made me so happy.

"Something on my face?" Link asked, making me jump.

"I- No!" I exclaimed, embarrassed I had been caught red handed.

"Oh?" Link asked, amused.

"It was nothing." I replied, looking away. "I bid you goodnight, Link." With that I turned away, laid down on my bed, and threw the blanket over me, hiding my burning face.

I heard Link chuckle behind me. "Goodnight, Zelda."

In the morning I put on my normal training attire and armor. Although it wasn't formal wear, it was the best outfit I had to address a King in. And it didn't seem like King Dorephan had been bothered by my attire yesterday, so it probably didn't matter. Still, such tendencies had been ingrained in me.

Once ready, Link and I left the inn and made our way up to the throne room. A table had been brought in just before it, eight seats around it. The largest chair was already filled, King Dorephan's large form sitting in it. It was remarkable how much larger he was than the rest of the Zora, and with the size difference, there was a profound increase in strength and power too.

In addition to the King, there were several other Zora already sitting in place. One was Mipha, and next to her was a small red Zora, a child. This I hypothesized was Sidon, the young Prince. On King Dorephan's other side was a green Zora with large flaps on either side of his head that resembled a stingray. He looked old. Next to him was a hardy and weathered brown Zora. He wore a proud expression. The last Zora was a pretty purple color and had a shy expression on her face, as if she wasn't entirely sure what to do in her situation. This must have been Lera.

The two remaining seats were empty, ready for Link and I . Quickly we took our places, I sat next to Lera and Link next to Sidon, who had a big toothy grin on his face as he saw Link. Link waved at him, a hint of a smile playing at his lips, but then it was gone as his knight's mask was put in place, revealing nothing.

"Welcome, Princess Zelda. And you as well, Link. You have grown much since I last saw you. I hope your father is well." Link gave a quick nod in answer, "I decided it would be nice to discuss matters over breakfast. I made sure the cooks prepared dishes more suited for Hylian palates. As you can see, my daughter and son are joining us. Sidon was most excited to see Link again. I also invited Muzu, who is my daughter's instructor and recently I appointed him as my advisor. Next to him is Sergeant Seggin and then Lera." Lera bowed her head as the King spoke her name. She was clearly not used to all the attention. It certainly would be interesting to see how she interacted with Urbosa, Revali, and Daruk, who were all quite loud and forward.

"It is a pleasure meeting with all of you." I replied formally. "It seems many of you already know my appointed knight, Link." I motioned to Link who gave a brief nod. "I'm sure you've all been informed as to why I am here and the role Lera plays."

"Indeed." The Zora, Seggin addressed me, "I can attest to Lera's skill as a healer. She is diligent and reasonable. She will make an excellent champion." A blush rose to her face; she clearly wasn't used to having so many eyes on her.

"I look forward to working with her." I stated, giving the Zora a reassuring smile.

"Thank you Princess Zelda." She said softly.

As we finished this introductory exchange, several Zora suddenly came up the stairs, carrying trays of food. Some looked like normal food I'd find at the castle, like smoked and braised fish, biscuits, and fruits, while others weren't as appeasing, like some slimy looking dish with orange bubbles. I decided I'd avoid that dish.

Link however took some of everything. I admired his bravery.

We ate and chatted, talking about nothing really important. Sidon was talking Link's ear off, which Link was fine with as all he had to do was shake his head or nod to Sidon once in awhile. Mipha clearly wanted to cut in, but her brother never gave her the chance. I talked with Lera, trying to get to know the Zora champion.

"Tell me, how did you and Link meet?" I asked her, trying to start a conversation.

"Oh." She said, not expecting my question. "He was only a child at the time. But while he had been playing with some of the Zora children, he fell on the rocks by the water and scuffed up his knees. I treated him. Ever since then, I ended up bandaging him on the regular while he was staying in Zora's Domain. All the healers became very familiar with Link. Mipha too as she has some training in the healing arts."

My eyes flickered over to the pretty Zora. "Is that so?" I bit my lip, pondering for a moment, but I let the thought go. "Well, I think he's gotten a little more careful as an adult. He hasn't sustained that many injuries on our journey. In fact, I've gotten more injuries than him.

"That's a relief." Lera said, giving an audible sigh. "He was quite reckless as a child."

I raised an eyebrow. "Was he?"

Her dark eyes glanced at Link and she nodded, "Yes. Although it looks like he's matured since then."

We continued to chat ideally. Seggin joined our conversation for a little while, asking me about the Hylian Military and if I knew any of the knights he had worked with in the past. Before long everyone's plate had been cleaned and the servants took the dishes and platters away, leaving the table empty again.

"Thank you, Princess Zelda and Link for joining us." King Dorephan addressed the table. "We all look forward to working with you Hylians to dispose of this vile essence coming for our shared land. We will show this monster Hyrule's inhabitants have quite the fighting spirit."

"Here, Here!" Chanted Seggin and Muzu, pride twinkling in their eyes.

I clenched my fist, "Agreed. Together with all the clans and our champions, we will vanquish Calamity Ganon. For good."

"Couldn't have said it better myself, Princess." Dorephan scratched his chin, "What do you plan to do once you leave Lanayru?"

"I'll begin preparations back at the castle." I began to explain to the King and other Zora around the table how the champions would gather and military training and exchanges would occur between the clans. The Zora nodded, on board with my plan.

"And what of you and Link?" Muzu asked, his voice sharp. "You two do have unique roles in this. The one who wields the Sword that seals the Darkness and the other with the blood of the Goddess."

"Link." I gestured towards him, "Has his own specific training he must undergo once we get back in order to unlock the full capabilities of the Master Sword. And I still have some of my own training to do." I replied vaguely, not wanting to get into the details of my dormant sage powers.

"I see."

"Sounds like these two will be working very hard." King Dorephan praised, "Hyrule is in good hands."

I bowed my head, grateful for his praise, but I felt undeserving. "Thank you."

"Of course." Dorephan replied, "Now then, I know most of you have important matters to get back to, but I thank you for joining me and my family today."

With that, we said our goodbyes. As I rose from the table, I walked over to Lera. "May I walk with you?"

She dipped her head respectfully, "Of course Princess." We began to leave. I glanced back at Link, who was still listening to Sidon talk, Mipha standing patiently next to them.

"Since we will be working together, I think it is wise we spend some time together before I depart. Perhaps you are available to show me around Zora's Domain within the next few days."

"Yes, of course, Princess." She replied, keeping her formal tone. "Tomorrow afternoon would work for me. We can walk to Veiled Falls. It is a popular attraction for those that visit Zora's Domain."

"Excellent." I beamed, "I look forward to it." I said goodbye to Lera and she walked away swiftly, as if needing a reprieve from all the attention. I sighed, hoping she would be able to adjust to her title and role as Champion. A fleeting thought crossed my mind, wondering once more if she was the correct champion. I shook my head... I would find out soon enough, so no use dwelling on it.

Walking back to the inn, I noticed Mipha standing by herself leaning along the railing. She was staring down at the calm waters below. I paused, hesitant, but then I walked over to her. "Mipha?" I called, grabbing her attention.

Her head snapped in my direction, just now noticing my presence. "Oh. Princess Zelda."

"Just Zelda is fine." I told her. "You seem lost in thought. Everything alright?"

Mipha smiled, "Yes, everything is fine." She looked up at the sky, a contemplative look in her eyes. "It's just strange seeing Link after all this time. The little boy I remember is no more and now he's grown into this older form I recognize but don't."

I nodded, "It must be strange. You Zora live so much longer than the rest of us. To see them all age so much faster than you, I can not imagine what that feels like."

"Yes. But it is more than his appearance. He is much more... distant now. As if he has closed the world off."

Mipha was very observant, I realized. She must have known Link very well when he had lived here as a child. I wasn't certain how much I should say on the matter, knowing it wasn't my place to tell Mipha these things. Instead I opted for a more vague answer. "I'm sure Link has a lot on his mind like we all do. As long as I've known him, which hasn't been very long, he doesn't really trouble people with what's ailing him unless they ask."

Mipha looked down, a small frown on her face. "Yes, that makes sense. Although he used to be more open with sharing things. At least with me he was."

"It has been awhile since you've seen each other. Link probably needs some time to acclimate. Afterall while he has aged, both you and your brother have stayed the same."

"You may have a point." She said, although her eyes still looked concerned.

"Why not train with Link sometime while he's here?" I offered, seeing the worried look in her eyes. "Seggin mentioned you are adept with a trident. I'm sure Link would appreciate a sparring partner."

Mipha's countenance seemed to brighten at my suggestion. "That's a wonderful idea. Thanks Pri- Thanks Zelda."

"Happy to help." Deciding to return to the inn, I bid Mipha farewell. Upon my return, I found Link was gone, the innkeeper relaying that he had gone off with some of the Zora soldiers. Unsure of what to do, I sat on my bed and began to shuffle through my items. Pulling the Sheikah Slate out, I tapped open my notebooks and began to catch up on writing about my ventures, knowing I had been slacking on that. But now was the perfect opportunity to catch up. With vigor, I set about my task.

Link returned several hours later. I had finished my journaling and was jotting down ideas for experiments I was working on and plans for future ones.

"Hey." He greeted. Setting down the Slate, I gave him an uncertain look. Link arched his eyebrows. After being around me for so long he could tell something was bothering me. "What's up?"

I shook my head. "Do you think Lera is the right champion?"

Link pondered this for a moment. "I don't know. She fits the description, but so do other Zora. I suppose we won't know for sure until you give her the power. No dream yet, right?"

"Correct." I replied. "Although I normally have them after I've met with the champion. Daruk being the exception."

"I guess if you don't have a dream in the next few days we'll know to look for someone else." Link reassured me.

"You're right." I said, not sure why I was so apprehensive about finding the last champion. As long as we were in Zora's Domain, we would find them. Changing the topic, I asked, "How was training?"

"Good." Link answered, "The Zora usually fight with spears or tridents, making it a bit more difficult for someone like me who typically uses a sword. It was a nice challenge."

"Yes, I'm sure it was." I too had difficulty getting past people with longer ranges than I did when relying on my martial arts skills. In those situations I'd try and keep more distance and use my bow. "I ran into Mipha earlier. She seems happy to see you." I decided not to mention how concerned she was.

Link smiled. "It is nice to see her. And Sidon. Sidon always followed us older kids around. He seemed to take a liking to me... maybe because I was the only Hylian around."

"I think he still has taken a liking to you based on how he talked your ear off at dinner." I laughed.

Link smiled. "Fair."

"I suggested to Mipha that you and her should train sometime. Maybe you could tomorrow while I'm with Lera?" I said, hoping that would make the Zora Princess feel better.

Link nodded, on board with the idea. "Where will you and Lera be going?"

"She said Veiled Falls."

Link looked relieved as I said the name. "That's not far away. As long as you don't go jumping off any cliffs again, you should be fine."

I crossed my arms, "It's not like I purposely fell into the Great Rift. A Hinox basically pushed me in!"

Link gave me a wary look. "Just be careful."

"I'm not as fragile as you make me seem." I huffed.

Link smiled and walked over to me. "I know. You just have a skill for finding trouble in almost any situation... Which makes me a little paranoid."

I frowned. "I can't really refute that. Although it wasn't always like that. For most of my life I avoided most detrimental situations."

Link chuckled, "Of course you did."

"I did!" Link just shook his head and stretched his hand out. It came to rest of my head. His gorgeous blue eyes met my green ones.

"Just be careful. Even if you don't attract trouble, we do know monsters are moving more now." He retracted his hand from the top of my head, much to my dismay. As he walked away, I felt my chest swell, a deep ache within my ribcage. I brought a hand to my chest and clenched the fabric there.

An image of me reaching out to him crossed my mind. Latching onto his hand and pulling him back to me... wrapping him in a tight embrace... his strong arms encircling me, eroding away all my worries and doubts...

I let out a deep sigh, chasing the image and desire in my heart away. Link was my knight and partner. And that was it. I couldn't help what I felt, but I hoped these feelings would fade with time.

And yet a part of me hoped they would stay with me forever.

An early update this week. I'm working on the next chapter and I'm hoping to have it done and edited by this weekend! So aiming for two updates this week, but we'll see if I make it… Link and Zelda are almost done with recruiting the champions and their relationship has grown quite a bit since they started out. For right now I'm building up those feelings but they will reach a breaking point soon, so to speak. We're coming to that point quickly. This is actually a moment I've been planning since the beginning. So I'm really looking forward to it.

Also just want to thank everyone again for reading! Follows, favorites, and reviews are always super appreciated! Thank you all so much 3 It means a lot that you've stuck with me and this story for so long :)