Chapter Twenty

Graviora Manent
"Heavier Things Remain"

Everyone seemed to be a bit more relaxed by morning, the tension of the previous few days' events were almost like a dream in a way. Now they rode to Castle Town in peace, Link and Midna putting their cloaks on as they neared the center of Hyrule.

Their journey was uneventful, exactly as Link had thought it would be since they had frightened the bandits away on their travel to the Sacred Grove. The Sheikah still felt uneasy about them though, considering Zelda's words when they had first encountered the marauding group. He wondered where they could be currently hiding out.

"This is the furthest I can take you all," Telma spoke, bringing the carriage to a halt outside of the gates to Castle Town. "I'm glad that it seems everything is right again," the pub owner said as her passengers began to disembark. She looked to Link, who in return gazed back, red eyes hidden in the shadow of the hood. "I didn't like seeing you suffer hun," she said with a pained smile.

"Thanks for everything Telma," he replied. "Sorry about all the trouble."

"Don't mention it. After what you've done, and the history of the Sheikah… well, it's complicated and I know it's really none of my business to get mixed up further in these matters as of now. I'm glad I got to know about it all, but I think I'll just stick to being the owner of Castle Town's only bar. I should be the one thanking you, really. Without your sacrifices, I don't think any of us would be alive," the Resistance leader glanced over her shoulder, nodding towards the assorted travelers. She looked back at Link a moment later. "Anyway, feel free to drop by the bar whenever. You know I'll be there," she winked. The Sheikah nodded, signaling his gratitude before turning to the others as the woman set off with the carriage back the way they came in preparation to return to her establishment.

Once she had disappeared from sight, Colin tied Epona to a post outside of the town, joining the rest of the group as they entered the hub of Hyrule cloaked. At the central square they stopped; Link finally getting a good look around, since the last time they passed through these streets on the way to Telma's he had been too unwell to really notice everything.

"So," Colin began. Link shook his head, snapping himself back to attention. The plaza was almost overwhelming now; the sounds, sights, and smells on the verge of being too much with his improved senses. "I'm going to go get what I need then head back to Ordon."

Link looked at the boy sadly, knowing that this truly was going to be his final goodbye. He quickly leaned over, pulling the kid into an abrupt embrace. Colin was stiff with shock, but after a moment or so passed he tentatively wrapped his arms around his friend. The Sheikah was well aware that the action would only make parting ways more painful, but didn't want himself or the Ordonian to regret not doing so upon later reflection.

Midna and Zelda watched from nearby, now sitting on the edge of the fountain in the center of the plaza. The two knew this was a moment they couldn't interfere in, having no bond with the messenger like Link did. The Twilight Princess gazed at them sorrowfully, realizing just how selfish she had been when asking if Link would go with her back to the Twilight Realm. She was well aware that he might never be able to come here ever again, and Midna began to wonder if what she had asked of him the previous night was right.

"Goodbye… and be safe," Link quietly spoke into the ear of the Ordonian. The Sheikah hoped the one who would take his place in the village couldn't hear the slight shaking of his voice.

"I know you'll be happy now, Link. Don't worry about me. I'll make sure everyone back at the village knows you're well…" Colin drifted for a moment, taking another breath before continuing quieter than he spoke moments ago. "…And that you've found someone to spend your life with."

Link inhaled sharply at the boy's words, but quickly relaxed. He was glad Colin spoke softly and the din of the market square made it so only Link could hear what was said. After a pause the Sheikah broke the stillness between the two.

"Thank you… I-I feel terrible for leaving you all behind. I'm so selfish…" Link's voice faded, face pained at his own words and glad the boy couldn't see his expression thanks to the embrace. After a few moments Colin pulled away, sorrowfully looking up to the Sheikah who had quickly managed to compose himself; putting on a stone mask of emotionless features to cover the twisted dejection beneath. He didn't wish for the boy to have to see his role model broken in these last moments.

"No, I think I understand. About you and Midna I mean. I'm too young to really know since I haven't found anyone who I feel that way towards, but I can tell you two are close and want to be together. If she's really the leader of the Twilight Realm like what was explained last night… well, she can't just leave that behind."

Link attempted a half-hearted and almost ironic smile, remembering how she willingly left her kingdom to aid him. The look slipped from his face a moment later.

"I… we all have to make sacrifices or take risks at times, and I get that. Besides, Ordon has done really well this past year. It… took the village a little while to adjust to your absence, but everything is fine. After all you've been through… I can't imagine what it would be like trying to go back to village life again. You need something new… I'll never forget you Link…" Colin's eyes began to water as he struggled to keep his voice from shaking. "Thank you for everything… and goodbye," he spoke, abruptly turning away from his savior and quickly disappearing into the crowds of the market.

Link gasped, reaching out and unconsciously taking a few steps forward as he attempted to focus solely on finding the Ordonian who vanished far to fast. The Sheikah was only snapped out of his trance when someone in the busy square bumped into him. Bringing his arm to his side once more, Link slowly turned back to the royals, expression yet again burdened with emotion but still mostly concealed by the hood he wore. The Sheikah didn't have the chance to tell Colin that he feared he might never be completely free of worry and pain. But maybe that was something best not to say.

The Twili's face reflected the emotions Link's held upon witnessing the events that played out before her, but she immediately plastered on a smile and positive attitude from beneath her mantle; faking cheerfulness to keep the mood light. She hoped that no one would see through the façade, concerned about how the mood so abruptly went downhill.

"So back to the castle?" Midna questioned. "I don't know about you, but I can't stand these crowds." She stood, Zelda following her action with the words of the Twili.

"Yes," the Hylian in disguise spoke almost solemnly. "There is still much to do."

Upon entering the palace, Zelda instructed the two to follow her and the group immediately went for a meal in the dining hall, waiting at a table not long before food was quickly prepared and brought out. Zelda had removed her headgear and the scarf from around her neck, wishing to return to her familiar attire but knowing that could wait while they came up with a plan. There was something that needed to be brought up and discussed.

"I will address the issue of the bandits with the council soon, but first there are other matters to attend to," the Princess said as their meal was being served. She instructed the servants to not disturb them during their feast before turning back to the others and continuing. "I know you must return to your world at some point, hopefully soon, yet you have not directly addressed how you are to go about doing that. I believe you do not wish to face it because the magic that brought you here has yet to regain enough power to return, and you do not know when it will." Zelda spoke to the other Princess; knowing she had been right from the silence the Twili gave her, showing no intention of replying to the words of the Hylian as Midna took a bite of her food.

"I see then," Zelda spoke with a terse nod.

Link hadn't realized how hungry he was until he began to eat and was quickly inhaling what he had been given, watching the two royals discuss the matter. The Sheikah knew that he didn't have a place in this conversation from his lack of knowledge on magic, even if he had figured out matters involving Zant's use of the ancient power. Link listened carefully nonetheless, far to busy at the moment with his meal of light world delicacies. Some of which he hadn't ever eaten, even though he had lived in Hyrule for the majority of his life. Nonetheless, the Sheikah enjoyed the meal greatly thanks to his hunger.

After a few more moments Midna spoke.

"Yes, the Fused Shadows will take time to regain their magic, and… you're right," Midna sighed, staring at her food. Link seemed to like it, but the Twili wasn't sure if she did, much preferring the familiar cuisine of her realm. "I don't know how long that will be."

"I am not by any means encouraging you to leave quickly. You are welcome to stay in Hyrule Castle as long as necessary. I do understand though, Midna," the Hylian paused and the Twili looked up from her plate to meet the genuinely concerned gaze of the other Princess. "When the twilight was covering my kingdom, I wanted to return to my people… but with my blessing, I remained as I am now and did not become a spirit. I had no way of telling them I was safe and well. I see that is what you are currently going through now that Link is physically healed once again."

Midna smiled sadly and looked to the Sheikah, who was just finishing his food that had been far too quickly devoured. She regretted not being wiser and thinking over everything in more depth before leaving her world with him. Midna realized it was the same problem Link had faced when he clung to her the day she shattered the Mirror. The Princess knew her people were kind and they understood she would return, just as she had with Link after everything regarding Zant and Ganondorf was over. But that wasn't the end. In reality, it was only the beginning of a new and personal struggle. One that she realized was so very selfish. She felt terrible for everything she had done and was in a way blinded by her concern for the one she loved.

Zelda took note of Midna's distress, realizing that the Twili wished to relax and have some time to think at peace. After all that they had gone through the Hylian understood; deciding to wrap up their meal, as it seemed Midna didn't wish to eat more and Link having consumed his fill.

"Your chambers from the other night should be prepared for you once more. I made sure of it before our departure. I assume you remember where they are or would you like an escort?"

Midna turned to Link after Zelda finished her words and she noticed the Sheikah staring at his plate, brow furrowed as if in thought. Suddenly, the expression of the Twili became worried at the sight of Link's unexpected change in mood. Or maybe he hadn't changed mood from since they entered the palace, still torn up over the events that had taken place in the market square.

"Actually," Link spoke up. The two looked to him, listening to the first words the Sheikah spoke since their meal began. "Would it be possible if I could have a separate room?" he asked nervously, staring at the reflection of his own face in the cleaned plate before him. After last night and Colin's departure, the Sheikah needed moment to himself so he could reflect on all that had come to pass. In addition to that, he never did get to finish his thoughts alone the other night. Link needed more time, and didn't know just how much. He hoped the others would respect that.

Zelda looked to the Twili with curiosity, wondering if the other Princess hadn't kept her promise to mend what had been broken between them. The Light ruler could see it in Midna's face that she was just as confused and worried by his words and actions as she was. Link continued to speak, looking at the two briefly. They returned their attention to the Sheikah once more.

"I… need some alone time. After all that's happened…" he drifted, eyes not meeting the gazes of the rulers. Midna realized that Link's goodbye to Colin must have hurt him more so than he was letting on.

"Yes, if that is what you wish," Zelda spoke, frantically thinking over the meaning behind Link's words. She had hoped that yesterday's events would have solved the troubles between the two, but she should have known better. It couldn't be that simple – it never was. "I will have someone escort you to your new rooms."

Not much time passed before a couple of guards guided the now once more cloaked Sheikah and Twili away, leaving Zelda alone in the dinning hall after she had said her goodbyes. The Princess sighed. At least there would be some time for them to possibly understand each other once more before she brought up her own ideas and input over their return. The Hylian did have another matter to address now before she could be at peace and help them.

Guided by escorts to their new chambers, they walked the halls in silence. Midna turned to Link and spoke from beneath her hood after a few moments of quiet she found awkward.

"Are you okay, Link?" the Twili asked, concerned about his earlier request. He had seemed so much better after they had opened up the other night and now Midna was worried again. He'd gone back to being distant in a way, even after he said he wouldn't act so strange around her again.

"Yes, I'm fine. I'm sorry if I worried you Midna, but after everything I went though… I just need a bit of time to think it all over," he explained just as he had not long ago, without looking at her once more. Midna was silent for a moment, displaying a sorrowful expression that she knew he wouldn't see from the way he hung his head.

"Okay, I understand. Sorry if I'm acting a little paranoid. I'm just concerned and you know you can talk to me about it. Whenever you are ready to that is," she replied, wording her thoughts in a way that she knew wouldn't force him to immediately tell her, but letting Link know she wished to at least try and understand everything. Midna was well aware that it would take time.

"Miss," one of the guards spoke. Midna and Link looked to him from beneath their veils. "We have arrived at your chambers."

"Thank you," she replied, taking a step towards the door the guard had opened for her. Midna stood in the doorway and looked to the Sheikah with only a half-hearted smile. "See you later, Link," she spoke before closing the wooden panel behind herself. The Princess waited until she couldn't hear the footsteps of the others before taking off her cloak and flopping onto the bed, letting out a sigh.

Midna thought back to Link's actions as they were eating their meal earlier. She began to wonder about why it was then and there he suddenly started to seem a bit distant again. Colin's departure alone wouldn't have placed a wedge between Link and her regarding their relationship.

In her head, the Twili replayed the brief conversation they had while they were eating and realized that the last time her realm was brought up was when she had confessed to Link. Midna wondered if what she said by mentioning her kingdom and dismissing the thought could have created unintended repercussions about Link's feelings towards her and that of the royal's world. The Princess regretted not finishing her words, but also realized that if she had, then things most likely would have gotten more stressed between them. If worse came to worse, Link might even back out on his agreement to go with her to the Twili's world; fearing what her words would mean for his life and just how much it would change. Not bringing it up in the first place and instead waiting would have been best for both of them.

The Twili sat up, thinking back on everything that the two of them had gone through since the moment of their first meeting and that of her actions towards Link ever since then. She recalled the times her feelings slowly began to become something more. The moment it all changed? Midna couldn't place it; the single action or event that caused her to feel for him in a way, that made the two of them in her mind, so much more than just accomplices.

No, it wasn't one thing. It was a collection of many; the struggles they shared and how they had one another's back. During their travels she slowly began to expose her past and knew at that time the two of them couldn't be together, he from another world than she. That's why the Princess tried her best not to be nice, to not bond with him in more than just a necessary and mutual relationship.

Somehow though… he'd still managed to capture her heart, and she, his, it seemed.

The Twili had seen it on his face, how he didn't like her upon their first meeting and continued to hate her as their travels progressed. Over time the Princess had begun to notice that he seemed to be more and more willing to help her. No, she didn't see him liking her during that time. She saw him doing it all because Link understood the sooner everything was back to normal, the sooner he could return to his life before he met her, and never again have to be bothered by the commanding little imp.

Though no matter what he felt then, she knew what he held towards her now, and the Princess hoped they could have a future. Together.

"I just want him to be happy, but every single thing I've ever done has only hurt him!" she aggressively pounded her fist into the pillow next to her. The Twili turned her gaze towards the object and grabbed it, wrapping her arms around the fluffy cushion and holding it against her chest. After a moment she let herself flop back onto the bed once more, staring at the ceiling above.

"I'm an idiot," Midna mumbled into the pillow.

"This will be your residence. Do you need anything?" the guard that escorted him asked Link. They had continued on in silence a short distance after leaving Midna and the Sheikah wondered what she would do now. It felt so strange in a way without her by his side.

"Thank you, and…" he drifted, looking down at his cloaked self; the fabric of his hood sliding further over the Sheikah's face. He brought his gaze back up to the soldier but knew the man couldn't see his eyes in the shadow of the cloth. "A change of clothes if at all possible."

The guard that escorted him bowed his head the slightest and turned on his heel. Link watched as he went. As soon as the man was out of sight, the Sheikah entered his room and quietly closed the door. Even though he was better, Link felt so very tired. He pulled off his cloak, letting it fall to the floor as he looked over himself; still garbed in the clothes of the Hero he once was. A moment later he made his way towards the bay window, curtains drawn back as they let the warm sun of Hyrule filter into the room.

The Sheikah let out a sigh, sitting on the platform beneath the glass panes and leaning against a pillow while he looked out over the market square far below. Link drew his gaze from the colorful and bright outdoors beyond, lifting his hand and inspecting the markings along his skin. He was simultaneously glad and a bit disappointed he didn't bring his full attire, leaving behind not only the gauntlets and chainmail as to not be burdened by their weight, but also the pouches and other supplies. A moment later his concentration went back to the lines on his skin. They weren't as dark black, yet they hadn't seemed to recede at all. Instead, their coloring had just slowly begun to fade and now they looked the slightest bit bluer than the deep darkness they had originally been. The Sheikah wondered if they would ever completely go away, but at this point didn't really care. He already had many battle scars from his journey. He wouldn't mind a few more.

Link silently reached his arm out, palm open, towards the lands in the distance and far past that of the confines of his room. His sight traveled along the gradually fading markings that painfully reminded him of what he had gone through. In a sense they really were more battle scars, even if the fight was different and in a way, still not over. The Sheikah closed his fist, muscles contracting and causing the lines to darken the slightest.

He let himself slide down until he was lying atop the wooden bench, looking up at the ceiling, arm still extended outward at a ninety degree angle from his body. A moment later he brought the appendage towards himself, resting it across his eyes and remembering. Link knew for sure now that Midna loved him, but also understood part what the Interloper told him in his trial remained a truth until something – anything – could prove otherwise.

"She's royalty Link, and what are you?"

Nothing. That's what he is, and especially so now.

She wouldn't choose him for a long-term commitment, her kingdom coming first. Link knew he couldn't interfere in that, getting his satisfaction at the cost of others. No matter how much he wished to attain it. He couldn't go down that path in this life.

From all this came at least one positive thing, and that was Link knew the Princess cared for him deeply. At the same time though, that almost seemed to hurt Link even more than if it had never been spoken. He felt terrible for keeping his distance from the Twili again so suddenly, but… he would do what he could to make her happy. It would just take time before Link summoned the courage to face her with all the truths he held in his hand. In the meantime he couldn't be anymore selfish than he had been, so he had to be cautious as he took steps to do what he was still destined to accomplish.

The Sheikah slid his arm aside and looked up at the ceiling. After a moment he then rolled onto his side, away from the window. The light of Hyrule was a reminder of what he was giving up in his frail hope regarding what has yet to come from all this. He couldn't face that right now in addition to everything else.

Link gazed to his shadow that was cast by the glow streaming in from behind him; making the Sheikah recall the twilight figure with kind and concerned eyes that looked back at him the moment this struggle of his had fully begun.

How he wished the two of them could be like that once more, simply close by the side of the other and for the most part, free of worries. Link reached out, resting his hand on the floor where the silhouette cast by the Sheikah from the light was outlined; almost wishing the little deep grey yet transparent hand from their initial journey together would reach out of the shadow and kindly hold his own.

Even though Link knew he was the one intentionally putting some space between them, he was hurt by his own actions. The Sheikah had to find a balance; fixing what was broken in the past here and now that he was in the present. Link knew he would be able to fulfill his parents' final wish now that he was in Hyrule, yet he still didn't understand what he needed to do to make that a reality. He thought that being alone would give him time to think on this free of distractions, but no matter what, his mind still wasn't calm as Link looked to the space before him.

It was so… empty without her, exactly as his heart was.

A/N: Twilight Princess HD…
TWILIGHT PRINCESS HD!
It's happening people. Just… I can't even express my excitement! Anyway, I didn't get to edit this chapter as much as I had wished thanks to the fact I spent far too much time flipping out over the announcement of an HD remake for my all-time favorite video game. xD It couldn't have been coincidental that Nintendo decided to have a Direct that opened with the reveal of TPHD exactly one week before the game's ninth anniversary.