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.

30. Spiderwebs, Songs, & Sewing

"Ugh!" I threw the contents in my hands down on the desk, frustrated beyond belief. What a stupid, idiotic, daft, imbecilic idea! I rose from my seat and paced around my room, ready to break something.

Out of all the things my father had asked me to do, this was the most foolish waste of my time! I turned towards my desk and glared at the messy pile of bright blue fabric with intricate white designs. Father had thought the champions should have something in common, some feature that would distinguish them as champions…. That itself was an understandable idea. But his solution was to have me hand-sew five garments together for the champions - Me! While I had learned the basics of sewing and could patch up clothes, I definitely couldn't put together something like Link's tunic, which I would have to make since his original one was ruined from his fight with the lynel.

I could probably manage something like a scarf… it was simply a few straight lines and some corners. But even that was beginning to frustrate me and I had ripped out hundreds of seams with nothing to show for my efforts. And on top of that I had to practice for the Champion's dinner. Father had insisted I play something for our honored guests. And practicing for something as mundane and inconsequential as that just seemed like another waste of time. We had musicians… he should have asked one of them to do it!

The more I thought about his ludicrous and senseless tasks, the more enraged I became. I was ready to take the rolls of cloth to my study and burn them to ashes. Oh how sweet it would be!

I flopped down on my bed and heaved a sigh. The letters were out; the Champion's had all replied back saying they would be here for the dinner. And Link… well I didn't expect to hear back from him. My letter had been simple, just telling him when the Champion's dinner was and to be back for it. That was it. I figured there was no point in him coming back early when he could spend it with his family instead.

Link…

I pondered how he was - if he was having a nice visit with his family. I wondered what his parents and sister were like. I thought about what he was doing.

I kneaded my forehead with my hand. For someone I was trying not to think about, my thoughts went to him fairly often. Images of Link fighting the lynel came to mind… and afterwards when the Lynel crumbled to the ground and it was just Link and I, the space between us closing….

"Zelda. We aren't going to think about that anymore." I reminded myself. But before I could catechize myself anymore, a thought flitted through my mind. I sat up from my bed, my eyes going from the door to my desk where the gaudy blue fabric rested. Deciding I needed a break from my failed sewing attempts, I left my room, almost running through the castle as I made my way downwards, traveling a path I hadn't in almost a year.

As I entered the lower parts of the castle, I grabbed a torch and lit it on one of the lanterns. The end of the torch instantly sparked to life with fire and I turned down a corridor not often traversed. At the end of the corridor was a door. I had visited this place a lot when I was younger, unafraid despite the gloom and darkness. For me it was a place of mystery as well as a place of answers. But today I didn't enter for answers. Instead I was in search for something specific.

Pushing the door open, I entered what was the first part of the castle catacombs. It was said the catacombs went deep below the castle, however I had not found a way into the deeper parts and it wasn't for lack of effort. I wanted to know about all that that was stored down here over the eons. The catacombs were filled with lost information. There was an ancient library, filled with dusty books whose pages would crumble into flakes at the slightest touch. There were rooms filled with ancient weapons and others filled with priceless artifacts and treasure. There were tombs of the previous kings and queens as well, each one with a lengthy monument by them. I had learned a lot about my ancestors during my explorations. Yet the room I had spent the most time in was that which held my mother's tomb. As a child I would disappear into the catacombs and sob next to my mother's tomb.

But eventually, the tears had dried and in their place was a sense of loss. The darkness in the catacombs had called to me, as if it were an oasis I could lose myself in - just wither away and forget. And so I explored… weaving my way through the ancient tunnels, finding a treasure trove of riches. I had set out on a venture of nothingness… but instead had found… something. And in that something, I slowly began to bandage the gaping hole in my heart. The emptiness had never gone away… but I had learned to live with it.

As I explored the catacombs, I found many things. I would take old books from the decaying library and read their rotting pages, trying to piece together the stories they told. I would read the engravings next to the tombs and had learned all about the old rulers buried there. Within the archaic stone walls was a plethora of knowledge and many mysteries all for my taking.

I made my way through the catacombs, stopping in a room I knew well. Weapons hung on the wall, all dusty and covered with cobwebs. But my attention was on the statue at the far end of the room, tall and proud. I looked up at the old statue, the woman's face fierce and firm. She wore armor and her hair had been carved into a flowing pony, as if the wind was forever blowing it. In one hand she held a glistening blade, the legendary Blade of Wind, so light, yet still lethally sharp. In her other hand was the Hylian Shield, befitting a Warrior Queen as herself. This shield was forged from a special alloy, the mixture lost over time, but it made the shield every light and easy to maneuver with. Perfect for someone as lithe and agile as my great-great grandmother. Sheik Hyrule, the Wind Scourge, had been the Queen of Hyrule long before I was born, known for her battle prowess and commanding demeanor. She was heralded as an extraordinary warrior, more known for her speed and dexterity in battle than her accomplishments on the throne. Which was no slight to her rule; she had been a great queen, but when fighting, it was said she had possessed an inhuman speed, almost as if she was a wind goddess. She had successfully led Hyrule through a tumultuous war between the clans of Hyrule and an uprising of monsters.

I looked up to her.

Carefully I approached the statue, giving a bow out of respect. Carefully I grabbed the shield from her stone grasp, working the shield out of her fingers slowly so as not to break them off. Once free, I pulled the shield away, brushing off the dust and spiderwebs with my sleeve. As the legends said, it was remarkably light. It had a silver edge and a deep blue center. The red symbol of Hyrule was carved into the center, and above that were three yellow triangles, all connected: the triforce.

I looked up at the statue of Sheik. "I know I am not worthy of such an item. But I believe the Hero of Hyrule is. I promise he will put this to good use protecting Hyrule, just as you did once." I glanced at the Blade of Wind in the statues' other hands. I recalled the first time I laid eyes on the blade…. My dreams had been filled with images of me using that blade, moving as swift and elegantly as the wind. "Perhaps one day I will be worthy too." I grinned, "Although I'm not much of a sword person. Still, it has always been my dream to be like you."

I bowed my head again and feeling as though the statue looked empty without a shield in her other hand, I pried a beautiful black and silver shield from the wall and placed it in her empty hand. This shield was smaller and slightly heavier than the Hylian Shield, but it looked better than nothing.

The Hylian Shield in hand, I retreated from the room. But I did not leave right away. Instead I made my way to a different, smaller room. At the center of this room was a tomb. I set the torch in a metal holder and sat next to the tomb, leaning my head against it.

"Hi, mother." I whispered, memories filling my mind. "I know I haven't visited in awhile. I'm sorry." I bit my lip, emotion filling me. "So much has happened since then. I don't even know where to begin." And yet I couldn't keep it all contained inside. Suddenly words were pouring from my mouth, about everything that had happened in the last few years. I told her about father, about life at the castle, about my research, about Impa, about Urbosa and Daruk, about Calamity Ganon, about my quest to find the champions and stop Calamity Ganon, and lastly, about Link.

It all just spewed from my jaws, a torrent of noise that filled this desolate and eternally silent place. When I was done, I sat there for minutes… hours… I wasn't sure anymore.

Sighing, I whispered, "Thanks for listening, mother. I miss you." I let a lone tear fall from my eyes.

I returned to my room, tucking the Hylian Shield out of sight so I could give it to Link later. I made my way to my study and began to muddle my way through everything, reorganizing things in order of priority. When that was done I sat down and began to make more coatings for my arrows, knowing I would likely go through them a lot in the coming days.

As I was finishing up, a loud knock sounded at my door and I ran back into my room. I answered it, heaving a big sigh.

"Princess!" I recognized the maid right away.

"Myti." I said, "How are you?"

"I've been knocking for ages Princess. Is everything alright?" She gave me a concerned gaze.

"Oh, I apologize." I pointed behind me. "I was in my study."

"Busy at work, I see. I brought you some food. Fitris said you'd forget otherwise." Myti held up a tray of food.

"Oh. It's dinner time already." I glanced behind me to look out a window. Dusk had fallen.

"Tis past dinner." Myti informed.

"Ah, my apologies. Time slipped past me." I grabbed the tray. "Thank you very much."

"Not a problem." Her eyes shifted past me, fixing on something in my room. "Looks like you have quite the project."

"Huh?" I said, turned around to see what she was looking at. My eyes fell on the mess that was my desk: fabric, needles, and thread everywhere. "Oh that." I remarked with loathing. "Yes, my Father has this notion that I need to sew clothing for the champions. Ridiculous. He should have asked the seamstresses if he wanted something well-crafted. At the rate I'm going they're all going to get handkerchiefs and loincloths."

Myti laughed, "So there is something you aren't good at."

"There is plenty I'm not good at." I replied. "And sewing is one of them."

"What are you trying to sew?" She asked. I waved her in. Setting down my tray I led her to the chaos on my desk.

"To be honest, I'm not entirely sure. Link needs a new shirt. And as for the others… well I was just trying to make something that at least resembled clothing."

Myti grabbed the fabric, rubbing her fingers over it. "This is nice fabric. If you want, Princess, I could help you with this. I happen to be pretty good at sewing. I make most of my own clothes."

"Oh you do!" I exclaimed, a wide grin overtaking my face. I grabbed her by the shoulders, earning a surprised squeak from her. "Oh that would be lovely. You're my savior! How can I ever repay you?"

She brought her hands up in a placating manner, "Oh, no worries, Princess. Tis an honor to assist you."

"Nonsense." I dismissed her. "After what I'm about to put you through, you deserve compensation." I opened the top drawer to my desk and pulled out the satchel of ores I had obtained from defeating the Ice Talus. "Here take these for your troubles."

Myti took the satchel hesitantly. She peeked inside and her face went pale. "Princess… I couldn't…."

"You can and you will." I folded my hands to show there was no debating this.

Myti's lips quivered and she gave me a low bow. "Thank you, Princess."

"Myti." I said, placing a hand on her shoulder, "I should be the one thanking you." Quickly we made plans to meet tomorrow to do some sewing. I thanked Myti one last time and she left, her hands clutching the satchel of ores. I smiled, happy to have found a useful purpose for the ores.

With that taken care of, I returned to my study with my tray of food and continued to work on things while I sporadically ate my food. I felt much better about the sewing project, which allowed me to focus more intently on my research projects… until I slowly drifted off surrounded by books, chemicals, and various equipment.

The next day came too quickly and started off rough with a meeting between my father and the military Captain. We spent hours going over tasks and debating who should take care of what. It was there I learned the Colosseum was being temporarily converted into a military training camp, which explained Madam Keilani's presence. Soon armies would be moving all over Hyrule, from the Gerudo, Rito, Zora, Gorons, and Sheikah… and they needed someplace to go. We simply didn't have enough room at the Castle or training camp across the river.

Finally the meeting ended, and I left wondering if we really accomplished that much. Still, it was progress. I hurried back to my room, where Myti was patiently waiting. For the next several hours, she carefully and meticulously instructed me on proper sewing technique. She did multiple demonstrations, which I thanked her profusely for, and handled the more difficult garments, like Link's tunic. When she was done, it came out looking perfect, far better than anything I could have handled.

I managed to sew together a scarf that actually looked decent, and decided I'd give this to Revali. Eventually, after hours, we had five finished garments, one for each champion. Myti had done most of the work, however I was vastly proud of my scarf as well as the skirt for Urbosa and shawl for Daruk I had helped with.

"Myti, I don't know how I can ever repay you." I exhaled as I slumped back in my chair. This had been more tiring than the meeting with my father and the Captain.

Myti bowed her head, "Think nothing of it, Princess. You've paid me generously. I only wish I could do more."

"You've done plenty. How about we just say we're even and go from here. I really do appreciate your help. You really saved my hide."

Myti smiled, "I am happy to help."

Myti left soon after that, having other obligations to tend to. Which I understood completely. There was still so much to do, yet it was already evening. Not much I'd get done now besides some tinkering in my study.

I shifted forward in my chair to stand up, but before I could go anywhere a knock sounded at the door. I frowned, not expecting anyone, unless Myti forgot something.

I approached the door and opened it, my eyes widening in shock at who greeted me on the other side.

"Surprise!" She exclaimed and I was whisked away in a hug.

My arms instantly wrapped around the familiar girl, a bright smile coming to my face. "Impa!" I cried, delighted to see my dearest friend. "What are you doing here?"

Impa pulled back to look at me, a glint in her eyes. "Father's here on business. I decided to tag along. Was planning on checking in on Purah, but also heard you returned from your journey so I was hoping the Princess could spare me some time."

I rolled my eyes, "I will always have time for you."

Impa arched her eyebrows, "Is that so? Good to know."

I sighed, "I don't know what you're planning, but don't do anything rash."

Impa let out a hearty laugh. "You're one to talk about being rash." Impa strode into my room and plopped down on my bed, making herself at home. Closing the door, I joined her.

"How have you been?" I asked, happy to see her. It seemed like so long ago since I had talked to her. "I missed you."

"Missed you too, Zee." She used her childhood nickname for me. "I want to hear all about your journey. All the details!"

"Well if you want to hear all the details, you probably best stay the night." I said, wanting her company.

"So it's a sleepover. Done." We both giggled, recalling times years ago when we were both children. I had met Impa while she was visiting the castle with her parents. We had instantly clicked and would hold secret sleepovers in my room… although it wasn't really a secret since all the adults knew…. But we thought we were being sneaky.

"Hold on a second." I stated, getting off of my bed. "Be right back." I called as I ran to my study and grabbed a bottle which contained a dark brown powder. Returning to my room, I held up the container to Impa, a proud smile on my face. She arched a brow in questioning, but I merely bid her to follow me. "Come. I want you to try something."

"You sound like my sister." Impa mocked, but followed me regardless. "This better not kill me."

"Well it didn't kill either Link or I when we tried it, so odds are in your favor."

"Delightful." Impa cheered sarcastically.

"I promise it's not bad." I assured as we reached the kitchen. It was quiet as most of the staff had retired for the day. Quickly I boiled some water and dumped a little of the powder in two cups. Once the water had boiled, I poured it into the cups, the water turning a dark brown. Adding a little sugar, I stirred the solution, and then handed it to Impa.

She sniffed it precariously and took a tentative sip. After smacking her lips together thoughtfully she nodded her head. "Not bad."

"It is quite good, isn't it. Even Link liked it… granted he did add a decent amount of sugar."

"I'm surprised you didn't try to poison him with it." Impa laughed as we returned to my room.

"Poison him?" I repeated.

"Yeah." Impa laughed. "Last time I saw you, you were pretty annoyed with that knight of yours. I'm surprised he made it back to the castle in one piece."

That was right… At the beginning of our journey, Link and I hadn't been on great terms… Or rather I despised him and Link was just trying to do his job. I sighed. Thinking back on how I had acted made me feel bad and slightly embarrassed. Still, despite my behavior Link had been nothing but kind to me.

I shook my head. "So much has happened since I last saw you, Impa. But tell me, how have you been? Any news?"

Impa sipped her beverage, looking content. "Well nothing too major really happened after you left us. Father started war preparations. He traveled to the Castle. Everyone's been busy training. I got engaged. I've also been helping Purah with some things since she's moving her research to the castle and Jomih was complaining endlessly ab-"

I spit out my drink. "You WHAT?"

Impa blinked at me. "I've been helping my sister?"

"No, not that!" I exclaimed. "You got engaged?!"

"Oh that." Impa wavered her hand dismissively.

"Oh no." I said firmly. "I want all the details. This is huge! I had no idea."

Impa shrugged, "It's pretty common when someone turns 17 they get engaged." The Sheikah as well as Hylian royalty participated in arranged marriages. While Hylians didn't have as many customs or rules surrounding arranged marriages, the Sheikah did. Typically when someone turned 17 they're parents would come to them with a list of potential partners.

"I forgot about that." I said and sprang to my feet. "Completely forgot!"

Impa laughed as I pulled something out of my desk drawer. "I wouldn't be surprised if your father came to you soon with a list of suitors."

"Oh I'm sure he already has a long list. Maybe I can get away with what Purah did." I handed a small wrapped box to Impa who took it with curiosity. The Sheikah had an option when they were 17: they could either agree to enter the marriage pool or they could defer for an indefinite amount of time, which Purah had done. A part of me figured Impa would do the same. She had shown little interest in marriage. "I'm surprised you accepted a marriage proposal."

Impa held the box in her hands. "Yeah, I always thought I'd defer too. However with the war coming and as I'm next in line to lead the Sheikah - since Purah left that title behind - I figured it would be best if I got engaged. Give the people a little piece of mind that they'd still have a leader and our bloodline would be preserved."

"Oh Impa." I said and hugged her. "That was very brave. I don't think I'd be able to do such a thing."

"Of course you wouldn't." Impa hugged me back, "You're too stubborn. Granted I can be too, but this just felt like something I had to do. Besides, I got to decide who it was. And he's a really nice guy. He kind of reminds me of you, but he's also nothing like you."

"That makes no sense." I pulled back and pointed to the box in her hand. "Open it. It's not much but I got you a little birthday present."

"Thanks Zee." She began to pull apart the wrapping paper and opened the lid of the box. She pulled out a pair of chopsticks, elegantly made and beautiful. They were red with a black design on them - which was swirls that took the shape of a raven, Impa's favorite animal.

"I love them." She whispered.

"I know you like to put your hair up with them. But these are multifunctional." I grabbed one of the chopsticks and pulled at the tip. The top came off, revealing a needle thin, but deadly sharp dagger - a perfect weapon for a ninja.

"Wow. That's amazing. Did you make these?" Impa asked, her eyes wide.

"Oh no." I shook my head, "I did come up with the idea, but I had someone at the castle make them. I'm no good at making stuff like this. I'll stick to potions and ointments."

"This is perfect." Impa leaned on my bed to hug me. "These will definitely come in handy."

"I imagine they will." I said, my mind shifting to the looming threat. I grimaced and pushed those thoughts down. "Now, tell me about your fiancé."

"His name is Grallel." Impa said, a slight blush coming to her face, which surprised me. Impa wasn't one to blush. "He's very sweet and charming… in his own way. He's like you in that he's very passionate about developing new technologies for the Sheikah. He focuses on enhancing our weapons and clothing… more practical ideas and not so radical like Purah and Robbie."

I arched an eyebrow. "I'm happy to know you think my ideas are practical."

Impa rolled her eyes. "Oh stop. You have really great ideas. They're simpler in concept than things my sister would come up with, but I think that's what makes them more useful." Impa shook her head, "But in terms of personality, he's nothing like you. He prefers to keep to himself and go with the flow. Whereas you try to dictate the flow."

"Kind of comes with being a Princess." I defended, "Besides, you also like to be in charge."

"I didn't mean it in a bad way." Impa chuckled, "But I like him. I met with a few other potential partners, but Grallel was different. I guess he must have felt similarly about me because he agreed to the engagement."

A smile had overtake Impa's face and I could see in her eyes that she was happy. "As long as your happy. And he treats you good. If not, he'll have to answer to me."

Impa laughed, "Not if Purah gets to him first. She threatened him with a whole slew of toxic chemicals. Grallel's kind of terrified of my sister now."

"Sounds like Purah. Does Jomih like him?"

"Yeah, they don't have much in common, but they get along well."

"That's good." I replied and sipped at my drink.

"Your turn." Impa grinned, "Tell me all about your journey. And how's that knight of yours? Anything happen between the two of you?" She wiggled her eyebrows promiscuously.

"Ha-happen?" I squeaked, caught off guard at her question. I felt my face turn red and Impa's eyes grew wide at seeing my reaction.

"Oh Hylia, something did happen!" She leaned in close to me, "You have to tell me everything!"

"No-nothing happened!" I protested, trying to cover my burning face with my free hand.

"You're terrible at lying, Zelda." Impa poked me. "Besides you're as bright as a wildberry, which kind of gives you away. So spill. I need to know how you went from hating him to being tragically in love with him." She gave a feigned swoon.

"It's not like that." I glared at her.

"Uh huh." Impa rolled her eyes. "Come on Zee, everyone loves a good enemies to lovers story."

"We were never enemies!" I exclaimed. "And we aren't lovers!"

"Hmmmm." Impa raised her eyebrows as she took a drink.

I put my head in my hand, knowing there was no winning with her. "Fine, I'll tell you what happened."

Impa grinned, "I'm all ears."

Sighing I began to relay to Impa everything that had transpired between now and when I last saw her. Impa greedily listened, commenting every now and then, as well as catechizing me on some of my erroneous actions. When I finished I looked down at the cup in my hand; it was still warm to the touch.

"You didn't." Impa whispered in shock.

I nodded my head. "I did."

"What did you tell him?"

I shrugged, "What could I tell him? I said it was a mistake and I apologized."

Impa slapped her forehead. "This could have been your moment!"

"Moment for what?" I met her gaze, which was intently focused on me.

"For you two to admit your feelings to each other!" Impa said exasperatedly. "My goddess, months on the road traveling together, getting to know each other, letting the tension build for it all to come to fruition with that kiss. And then you throw it all away!"

I pursed my lips. "You've been reading too many romance stories."

"Oh come on, don't you want to pursue these feelings you have for Link?" Impa poked me.

I felt a blush come to my face and I took a quick sip to help calm me. "I don't know. I mean maybe… but is there any point? In the end I feel like I'll just get him in trouble and disappoint Father."

Impa scoffed, "What doesn't disappoint your father?" She had a fair point.

"I just don't think I can do it, Impa." I bit my lip.

"Scared?" She asked, her eyes shining with sympathy.

I placed a hand to my forehead, "I think so? I don't know. It all just screams to me that it's a terrible idea and there's no way it could work. Yet that doesn't stop me from wanting it. I'm scared to pursue Link but I'm also scared not to."

"Yeah that's quite the predicament." Impa whistled. "But you can't just stay in this middle ground of should I or shouldn't I. You'll have to make a decision. Either one you win something and you lose something. You just have to figure out which one is worth it to you."

"Which one is worth it…" I mumbled.

"Yeah." Impa said, finishing off her beverage. "Obviously society dictates you pick one over the other, but will that really make you happy? So I'd say pick the one that matters to you most."

"Ugh, it all sounds terrible and I just want to shove it in a box and ignore it!" I exclaimed, frustrated.

Impa patted my shoulder reassuringly. "I mean that is an option. But it won't give you any resolution. And it could lead to more problems."

I kneaded my forehead. "Yes, you're right. I think I need to ponder this for a while about what I should do."

Impa gave an exasperated sigh, "There it is again: What I should do. Zelda, what do you want to do?" She fixed me with a searching stare.

I swallowed nervously under her scrutiny. What I wanted wasn't something I typically thought to deeply about. Most of my life had been dictated around what I had to do, not what I wanted to do. Granted I did get some choices, such as archery and research, but most important decisions came down to what was best for Hyrule? What was best for my family? What was best for the noble image?

It actually wasn't that hard of a question when I simply thought of what I wanted. It was justifying it that was hard. "I don't think I can do what I want in this scenario."

Impa sighed. "It's like pulling teeth with you. So what if you and Link did get together? What's the worse that could happen?"

"Social ostracization. Exile. Disownment. Dishonor." I automatically began to list them.

Impa rolled her eyes. "Come on, would any of those things be that bad? You know you'd always have a home in Kakariko Village, so you'd just be tossed out of the Hyrule Castle, which honestly would you mind? You've never wanted to be Queen."

"That is true for me. If I lost all of this, well I'd miss some things, but I know I would have a home with you or Urbosa… even Sensei Daruk and Master Falnore would probably take me in. But Link… I don't know if the same can be said for him. I couldn't allow him to risk all that after he's worked so hard to become a part of the Royal Guard."

"Always trying to protect everyone." Impa said, "Maybe let him decide that."

"Perhaps you're right."

Impa laughed. "Of course I am. Now, let's get some snacks and stay up until the wee hours of the morning!"

"And almost miss training." I giggled, recalling previous times like this where we had slept in so late we were quite late for training or lessons the next day.

"No training, so we can sleep in as long as we want." Impa winked at me.

"Although I don't have training, I have a lot of other obligations to see to tomorrow." I informed her.

Impa waved me off, "We won't stay up that late." Yet we both knew we would. And I knew I would regret it tomorrow, but at the current moment I didn't really care.

I walked out into the gardens, feeling a pleasant breeze brush against my skin. It was a gorgeous day and the garden was blooming with luscious flowers. Bright purple and vibrant red blossoms burst forth along the bushes I passed, the flowers plump and succulent. The sky was clear except for a few wisps of clouds.

After a busy few days I was looking forward to having some tea with two of the most important people in my life: Daruk and Urbosa.

As I made my way through the garden, I finally reached the wooden gazebo, that was painted off-white. Underneath was a small glass table, the glass stained and shattered - the shards put together so it resembled a bouquet of blue flowers. Upon the table was a tea pot and three cups. Three chairs were positioned around the table as well, two occupied, while the third one waited for me.

"Hello Urbosa. Hello Daruk." I smiled at each of them as I entered the gazebo and sat down.

"Hello there, Little Bird. It is good to see you well." Urbosa greeted me, her eyes lighting up. "Daruk was just telling me about your escape from Death Mountain."

Daruk laughed, "It was quite the thrill. I thought for sure I was a goner!"

I deadpanned. Of course Daruk would find it thrilling. "It certainly did get the blood pumping." I gave an unsteady laugh. "How have things been?" I asked, mainly directing my question at Urbosa as it wasn't that long ago I had seen Daruk.

"The mountain has been quiet." Daruk answered first. "And I've been training consistently. I think I've finally got this fire power figured out!" He held up an arm to flex.

Urbose chuckled, "I feel similarly about my power." She held up her hand that had the imprint of a black camel on it. "The lightning now bends to my will." To demonstrate she held out her hand and tiny sparks of lighting began to dance between her fingertips.

"That's impressive." I voiced in awe. "How extraordinary these powers are."

"And I've heard you found the others." Urbosa spoke, her voice filled with pride. "You did well, Little Bird."

I couldn't help the grin that grew on my face from her praise. "It was a long journey, but I accomplished what we set out to do. For the most part at least." Everything had been a success except my powers.

"I never had any doubts!" Daruk cheered and slapped me on the back, forcibly.

"Has there been any other… issues?" I asked, giving a pointed look to Urbosa.

She sighed, knowing what I was asking. "The Yiga have been problematic. We need to deal with them."

I nodded. "I was thinking the same thing. I ran into a small group of Yiga after I left Gerudo." I quickly explained my encounter with the random group of Yiga that was traveling throughout Hyrule. "They probably have more disguised groups like that traversing across Hyrule, spying and gathering intel. I think it'd be best if we took action against them. And soon."

Urbosa nodded. "Agreed."

There was a moment of silence, and then Daruk interrupted, "While this is important, shouldn't we wait to talk about this over dinner with the rest of the champions? Let's save such serious talk for then."

I nodded, "Yes, you're right Sensei. I invited you two to tea so I could take a little break from all the planning and preparations. I forget myself sometimes."

"You're not the only one, Little Bird." Urbosa assured. "Come, tell me about your travels. And who are these other champions? I'm looking forward to meeting them. And how is Link doing?"

"Ah yes!" Daruk added, "How is the little fella?" Then lowering his voice, he asked, "You to getting along better?" That was right… when we left Goron City, Link and I hadn't been talking.

Urbosa arched her eyebrows in curiosity. "Something happened between you and Link?"

"We just had a little disagreement." I said, waving my hands placatingly. "But we worked it out. We're on good terms again. Link's visiting his family right now, but he'll be at the dinner, so you can both say hi to him then."

"Excellent!" Daruk said. "I look forward to seeing him. Perhaps the two of us can get in some training. I never did get to spar with him."

"I hear you're playing." Urbosa said suddenly.

I narrowed my eyes. "Yes. Father requested it." I said in a clipped voice.

"Playing?" Daruk asked.

"Yes. Father asked me to play a piece for the champions when we meet for our dinner. Says it's a nice gesture and will build comradery."

"While I don't know if I agree with that, it is lovely to hear you play." Urbosa tried to cheer me up. "What will you be playing?"

I shrugged, "I haven't decided yet. Probably one of the classics. It's easiest that way."

"Violin?" Urbosa inquired tentatively.

"I decided to go with the piano." I replied. I had learned to play both was the piano and the violin when I was a child. They came easy to me, thus I had become proficient at playing them rather quickly. While I didn't particularly like playing anymore, everyone loved to hear me play, thus I kept at it…. Even if I would go months without touching an instrument.

"Your piano playing is lovely." Urbosa praised.

"I didn't know you played the piano." Daruk scratched his forehead.

"It's not something that I do a lot anymore." I stated, "When I was a child, it was customary to learn to play an instrument. It's a part of the whole noble etiquette. I ended up having a natural talent for it. Thus, for a lot of castle events, my father wishes me to play."

"I see." Daruk nodded. "You are very talented, Zelda."

I smiled wryly. "Perhaps. Although the skills that matter to me I had to work very hard for. For some reason music came naturally to me, however I had to work relentlessly to become skilled in martial arts and archery and I studied for hours to become something of a make-shift scientist."

"I can attest to that!" Daruk grinned.

"As can I." Urbosa winked at me.

"I'm glad. It seems all that work paid off. Although many times I doubted it would." I grabbed one of the wafers on the table and dunked it in my tea. I began to make small talk with Daruk and Urbosa, asking them how their siblings were doing and inquiring about anything else that had happened since I had last seen them. In turn, they asked more about my journey and reminisced about the past.

The three of us sat talking for the rest of the afternoon and I felt so at ease, my mind having drifted away from all the pressing issues at hand. As the sun began to grow low, the three of us said our goodbyes. We probably wouldn't be able to talk like this again until the dinner…. Which was only a few days away.

I frowned. I should probably start practicing. Thus I made my way to the music hall, which was empty at this time of day. Not that it was ever that busy. Light shown in from a window, capturing the last rays of the sun. I made my way to the piano sitting at the far end of the room, by the windows. I ran my hand over the smooth wood. It had been so long since I played.

Walking over to a stack of papers, I began to rifle through them, pulling out various sets of sheet music that I thought would be fitting for the dinner. Once I had a stack, I returned to the piano, but not before my eyes caught sight of several string instruments sitting in the corner. My eyes stared at the violin. I had once loved playing it. But that love had turned into pain and the pain morphed into hatred… because hatred was easier to deal with than pain. Hatred was like anger, and anger was something I knew how to deal with.

I turned away sharply and sat violently on the bench, which gave a stiff groan. I placed the sheet music on the stand and began to play, the notes coming easy to my fingers. My hands smoothly glided over the keys, playing the notes as if I had been practicing every day for months. Music rang out and filled the room. The piano notes sounded serene and lovely, yet the echoed with a certain hollowness. Music had lost its magic a long time ago. Where once it was vibrant and pulsing with life, it now was dull and listless. The noise sounded nice… but that was it. There was no emotion, no life behind it. Just stagnant noise.

The song came to an end and I hovered my hands over the keys for a moment, letting the notes die off. Then I set that sheet music aside to reveal a different song.

"Quite extraordinary playing." A voice sounded, making me jump. I whipped my head in the direction of the door and saw a young Sheikah who was probably only a few years older than me. He casually walked over to me, his white hair held up in a high pony and his amber eyes fixed on me. "Although it didn't make me feel anything."

"Who are you?" I asked, my eyes seeing he wore castle clothes. He must have worked at the castle.

The Sheikah gave a whimsical bow, "I am a musician and poet here at Hyrule Castle. You may call me Dadran."

"Did you need this room?" I asked and stood up, sliding the bench away. "I thought everyone was done in here at this hour. I assumed incorrectly."

Dadran waved his hands, "Oh no, Miss. I merely forgot my jacket and came back to get it." He held up a blue jacket. "But I did not expect to see the Princess here. What are you working on.? He leaned over to look at the music I had selected. He grabbed the papers and flipped through them, nodding his head as he did so. "Ah, all classics. I take it these are for some royal social event?"

"Something like that." I answered and grabbed the papers back from him. "If there is nothing I can help you with, I should get back to practicing."

"I don't think a lack of practicing is your issue, Miss." Dadran said, making no inclination to leave.

Growing annoyed, I said, "As long as it sounds good, no one will care." I sat back down on the bench, ending our conversation.

"Do you even like playing?" He asked, either oblivious or disregarding my attempts to ignore him.

"Does it matter?" I bit out and propped up the next set of music I was going to practice.

"Why play if you don't enjoy it?" Dadran mused. "Music is an expression. A chance to relay all your emotions and unspoken thoughts. Yet when you play, it's as if you're a statue - yes the song is played perfectly, but it's empty."

"It's just a custom." I tried to shake him off again. "I'm just doing what is required."

"Why not play something you enjoy?" He asked. "Although some of the classics are beloved and favorites, if you do not like them, don't play them."

I sighed and looked at the Sheikah, "Dadran. I mean no disrespect, but I don't enjoy playing. My song choice isn't going to change that. Now if you'd please let me get back to practicing, I'd appreciate it."

The Sheikah studied me for a moment. He then bowed his head, "Forgive me Princess. It seems I overstepped my bounds. I only wished to inspire you. Most musicians as talented as you have practiced for years… such labor is usually the fruition of love and passion."

I kneaded my forehead, now feeling guilty about my undeserving talent. "I like music." I said. "I just haven't enjoyed playing in a very long time."

Dadran lifted his brows, "May I inquire why that is?"

I shrugged, "Just brings back memories." My eyes flickered to the violin.

Following my line of sight, Dadran asked, "Do you play the violin as well?"

"Not in a long time." I remarked.

Dadran walked over and grabbed the violin, lifting it from its stand. "Then why not play it now?"

I felt like banging my head against the piano. Did he not listen? "I'd rather play the piano than the violin." I stated firmly.

"Ah yes, it can be fickle at times. But all the more lovely." Dadran grabbed a violin bow and began to strum on the strings. The twangs echoed out, filling the room. And then he was playing a familiar tune, a lullaby the Sheikah sang to their children. I listened for a moment, the sweet and soft melody relaxing me. Suddenly I felt an itch in my fingers and before I realized it the tips of my fingers were gently touching the keys of the piano. I stared for a moment, but the sound of Dadran's playing was ensnaring… so I let myself be ensnared.

My fingers began to gently press on the keys, playing along with Dadran. Together - violin and piano - we created a harmonious song, so tender and peaceful… the perfect elixir to lull children into a restful sleep. I closed my eyes as I continued on, finding myself drawn to the melody. All too soon the song came to a slow, the notes gradually fading as Dadran and I both played our last key. We sat in silence, the music still lingering in the room.

Opening my eyes, I stared at my hands. What had just happened? I hadn't felt like that when I played music in years.

"I did not expect you to know The Shadow's Lullaby." Dadran's voice sliced through the room, sharp after the serene music that had just filled it.

"I spent a lot of time in Kakariko Village." I answered softly.

"That explains it then." Dadran was now at my side, smiling brightly. "And that was much better. It finally sounded like you were a real person playing."

"I suppose it did."

"You look sad." He stated. I felt his eyes analyzing me.

"No. Just indifferent."

"I don't believe that." He challenged. "If it didn't matter, why would you even join in? I do not know what made you have a disdain for music, but music can be many things. It can be an expression, an escape, a dream. Even though you have shunned it, I still think music can help you, Princess. Think about it." He propped up the violin against the piano and gave a deep bow. "I must go. But perhaps give some consideration to playing things you desire. Best of luck."

And then he was gone, as quick as he appeared. Now that he was gone, I wasn't sure how I had felt, albeit I had wanted nothing more than for him to leave a few minutes ago. But between now and then, something has changed. His words meant more to me than what they first had.

My eyes shifted to the violin he had left next to me. Perhaps I had been thinking about it all wrong. Instead of something that brought back painful memories, perhaps it was a lasting thread, a piece of remembrance...

Biting my lip, I reached for the violin.

Link looked down at the paper in his hand. It was a simple note, but he appreciated it nevertheless. It was from Zelda, telling him when the champion's dinner would be and that he didn't have to return until then…. Which gave him a few more days with his family. He was happy about that because he didn't look forward to saying goodbye again. The past five days with his family had been great. He sparred with his father, cooked with his mother, and helped his sister with her work. He didn't realize how much he had missed his family until he returned to them.

Yet the time to leave was approaching, so he would enjoy the time he had left. A knock came at his door, and Link opened it to see Aryll grinning up at him. She pushed her arms out in front of him, revealing a glistening set of brass knuckles. "Finished them!" She exclaimed, clearly proud of her work.

Link admired the knuckles for a second - his sister really did excellent work. He grabbed one of them and turned it over in his hands. It was cool to the touch and smooth. It felt strong, an indication it was well made. The knuckle itself was silver in color and looked quite elegant, sleeker in design than most. The tops of the knuckles, which would be the area making contact with an opponent, were slightly pointed, which would provide more force behind a blow. And another interesting addition Aryll had added was a short, but sharp blade on the side of the weapon.

"They look great." Link praised, "Thanks Aryll. I'm sure Zelda will love them."

"Good! I'd hate to have my brother give his girlfriend something she detested." Aryll had been teasing him about Zelda throughout his stay at home. Link as usual shook his head and sighed.

"You never stop, do you?"

Aryll beamed, "Persistence is key!"

Link chuckled to himself. "Come on, I think mom is almost done with lunch. Let's head down."

"I'm starving!" Aryll replied and began to make her way to the kitchen. "Let's go fishing after this, Link."

"I'd like that." Link said.

"A fishing trip?" Their father inquired, overhearing them as they walked into the kitchen. "You can count me in. We can have a nice fish fry for dinner; how does that sound, Saoirse?"

"That's a lovely idea." Saoirse agreed with her husband.

Link and Ayrll quickly set the table and not too much longer their family was feasting around the table. As Link shoveled food into his mouth, surrounded by those he loved most, he felt a surge of contentment and happiness. If only it would last.