Author's Note:

Hi y'all! You've probably already come to the conclusion that I've been off playing TotK since nothing else came out during May lol. I suppose I'll reiterate now that this story will not inherently line up to or mention anything in that's a major plot point in TotK (like the gloom or floating islands or something). If there happen to be connections or "Hey that's how it is in the next game!" then cool I kinda got some things right! Though I'll tell you now that these next several chapters were all written back in April lmao. I've also been waiting on my editing partner to get back to me on how things smooth over with the past chapters in mind. Y'know, make sure I'm not going crazy and that things still flow properly. In fact, I'd probably encourage you to skim the past 3-4 chapters just in case it's been a super long time since you've come back to this.

Aaaannywaaaays, I'll put in the notes at the beginning of the chapter when it was written after TotK came out. In the meantime, I hope y'all enjoy it!

Though, if sorta...what's the word...intimate(?) scenes make your skin crawl, you can skip to the first chapter break lolol. You're still never gonna read a sex scene in this story, I can assure you that much XD

Allocating Answers

His labored breathing tickled the goddess lying above him while sweat slicked his face and exposed torso. She idly created spirals of smoke with her fingertip while the other tried to part different sections of his hair to no avail. "So…that's what you meant…earlier…about dynamics…" He might have recalled her promise, but he felt assured that he was missing plenty of context.

She laughed, the dancing flames on her cheeks growing brighter, "Oh that tried to slip your memory too?" Din clicked her tongue, "I thought it was your favorite part.~" She gleefully kissed his forehead, "There's just something so delectable about your face when you're—"

The deity smushed her cheeks together, making her lips resemble those of a fish, "Din," he breathed, "Don't be crude." When the goddess tried to resume anyways, he jokingly kissed them, making them both laugh. Though, she must have taken it as another cue because the next thing she did was grab his forearm and begin moving it over his head. His face couldn't be any redder as he tried to take it from her impossibly strong grasp, "Nooo," He jokingly whined, "I'm not asking for round two! Let go!" His tone was mostly playful, but he meant it. There was only so much of the goddess's affections he could foreseeably withstand, especially with such intensity! Plus, she plays rough…

A glint of satisfaction lit her eyes but Din respected his wishes, continuing to lay beside him, "Very well, my firefly." A thought appeared to cross her mind before she flashed him a deviously sharp smile, "That reminds me, what's this I'm hearing about a Hylian companion you've got?"

His eyes widened with realization, "Oh good point, I should probably be returning to him by now. How long have I been here?" Normally he would have kept track of that himself but…it wasn't a stretch to say he'd been rather distracted.

"Unfortunately, only two hours," She blew a strand of hair out her face, "But it's been four for them."

He sat up. "I should definitely be going then." When he looked back, he found himself smirking at her pouty face, "That doesn't work and you know that."

She dropped the act, "Hmph, figures." The goddess haughtily waved him off while her focus drifted to her fingertips. Still, her smile was savvy, "I'll let you get back to your little plaything."

The deity gave her a disinterested look as he wiped the sweat from his forehead and retucked the longer strands of hair behind his ears, "Be respectful please."

Din innocently shrugged, "Well if you're running back to him I'd hope it's for a similar reason."

"Ah…you're something else," he shook his head with a smile before stooping to peck her temple to say his goodbye. Her domain quickly dissolved from view. In the next second, he found himself rubbing his head after feeling the stone floor appear beneath it. Going from sitting to suddenly being on his back was quite disorienting to say the least.

He got up, his increased height causing him to realize he'd taken his adult form. Furthermore, he wore his black under clothes, boots, and gauntlets. Time spied the emblem of power beneath him, taking notice of the Goddess of Power's magic still freely flowing from his figure, 'I'm in no form to absorb it as is. Maybe later.'

For now, his mind was intent on returning to his descendant. So much so, he zipped to the hotel without hesitation. The settled dust truly flew to the walls when he flung the door open to the room they shared, happily chuckling, "I thought I'd find you here!" Instead of his face, he found the tip of a sword pointed at his chin.

Link hissed as he dropped it, his face twisting as he grasped his hand, "Ah! That burns!" His chest rose as he breathed, "You scared the cra—" He looked him up and down, "wait what happened to you!?"

"Silly," the deity cooed, closing the door and picking up the Master Sword, "She doesn't like hurting her past users, you know." He sheathed it in the sacred scabbard and propped it against the vanity. "I'm sorry for returning so late. What do you mean by 'what happened?'"

His words sewn an expression of disbelief, "Y-you—huh!?"

"Oh right," Time tugged him closer before kissing the corner of his mouth to greet him, "Good evening.~" His brow lifted as he watched the champion jolt away and stagger backwards, falling dramatically onto his back at the foot of the bed. "Are you okay?" He asked, taking a curious step forward, "Your heart is beating terribly fast." 'What an unexpected reaction…'

Mentioning it made Link clutch his chest as he curled onto his side, wheezing, "Dear Hylia! I totally forgot you could hear that!" His face was beet red as it searched his for answers, "Wh-WHY did you k-kiss me!?"

He removed his boots and gauntlets before accompanying him, all the while noticing how the knight kept feeling the place his lips touched, "That's just how we greet each other. Did I hurt you?" The deity drifted closer to see for himself. 'Strange, looks fine to me. I'm quite certain I didn't let Din's tastes poison me beyond her domain.'

"N-no!" Link stammered, realizing afterward how loud they'd been. He continued in a whisper…more like a hiss, "That's just…really sudden! I wasn't expecting that at all! Also don't talk so loud!"

Now he gingerly pecked his cheek to apologize, doing as he asked, "Oh I'm sorry."

The champion rushed to cover his face as he quickly shook his head, flustered, "It's like my face is going numb!" Based on the color, this feeling must have extended to his ears too. He pushed his hand over the Hero's mouth, "J-Just calm down with that, okay?"

Time took it instead, using it to pull him into a cuddle. The tone of his voice was soft and comforting, "Sure, if that's your wish." He grinned, letting out a satisfactory sigh while squishing his cheek into his descendant's, "And here I was thinking you'd be tired. Seems there's more fun for the both of us!"

"F-Fun?" Link's heart furiously pounded, "What are you talking about!?"

"Aw, why do you sound so nervous?" He mindlessly twisted his forelock around his finger, contemplating the consequences of enacting another smooch. 'Ah yes, your eyes from before…at the Temple of Time.' The god leaned over him, prying into their depths, "Hm…actually I'm curious about what's taken a hold of your mind recently, dearest descendant. I can see it in your pretty eyes. Please tell me if you'd like."

They apprehensively glanced in different directions before meeting his, "U-Um…the statue of Hylia…in the Temple of Time." His brows suggested his skepticism, "I think I saw it glowing in the reflection of your eyes. Was…was I just imagining it?"

Time's gratification shined through his toothy grin, "How rewarding it is to see your cleverness come out!" 'Surely one more wouldn't be the end of the world, right? I think it's deserved!' Following this logic, he delightedly planted a prideful smooch on the champion's other cheek. His eyes had briefly closed as his lips incidentally pushed Link's face in the other direction. The give of the champion's head pressing into the sheets sparked a memory of him doing the same to the fiery goddess when he managed to overcome her strength…once or twice. Nevertheless, his white sclera dimly glowed when they reopened, taking in the champion's burning face. A quiet echo complimented his voice, "Hm hm, what's this look entail?"

It was purely reactive to what had just occurred. There was a single candle to light the room, and yet it was obvious his skin had turned more scarlet than before…or perhaps that was from the magic still surrounding the deity. Likely not. Once the resonance of the god's voice faded, all that filled the room was the sound of his winded breathing. "Is this," he acknowledged the absence of his irises with a blink, "how you feel about me? That wasn't a greeting that time, right?"

"I'm just proud of your sense of detail, dearest. It warms my heart.~" His eyes glowed a little brighter, "What? Asking for a little passion?" The idea made him chuckle, "I thought I was being platonic," his voice died into a murmur, "though it appears you're rather sensitive…"

Link scooted onto his forearms with a look of astonishment, "Asking for—I'm WHAT!?" He was quick to turn apprehensive, " Are you sure something didn't happen to you? That's…that's not a question you'd genuinely ask me," he side-eyed him, "right? Has the red magic stuff gotten to you or something?"

"Hm…no it hasn't," his tone was thoughtfully frank as he played with the wild hairs sticking from his descendant's head, "I don't blame you for misunderstanding the basics of magic though, no worries. Otherwise, I appreciate your concern, but I can assure you I'm perfectly fine. A little tired maybe, it's been all day of course, a lot has happened; though I'm mainly happy to be with you."

"B-But why?" The champion wore a helpless expression as he tried to understand, "What makes you feel that way? I'm not exactly all that interesting!"

"I thought I've said it before." The deity rested his chin on the back of his hands, "I simply care about you, dearest. This is how I know to show it." His head tilted one way, "Your culture is a bit refrained in that sense, isn't it?" Saying it out loud made his descendant's prior reactions make far more sense. His brows gave away the brief contempt he felt for himself, "Hmph, I knew that and I still expected otherwise from you." Then a smile crossed his face, "See, I told you I'm terrible at this." He sighed, "I'm lucky you're so forgiving in that regard."

"Well but…" This was a load on Link's mind, "You're not…if," He breathed, gathering his thoughts, "Basically you're saying that everything you've been doing is your normal?"

Time slid up beside him, gleefully adorning his temple with another peck, "Very well put! Yes, that's right."

"Dear Hylia…even after knowing that, it doesn't make it any less shocking…" He fanned his face, "So if that is just some kind of common decency…do I really want to ask what you meant by that other thing? P-Passion I think? That…that kinda scares me."

Fierce Deity's eyes became bright enough to cast a light shadow in the dark as he glanced at the window, "It's grown a little late for that, I think." Though he nuzzled his nose against the champion's flushed cheek, whispering, "It's mutual to say the least." He leaned further into him, his index finger provocatively rubbing against the second knuckle of his. Hearing him tentatively swallow made a cunning smirk stretch across his face, "Buuut, while you're quite exciting in that sense, I'm inclined to consider your best interests." The god cheekily booped his nose, retracting his advances, "In short, I was just teasing you.~"

Link gasped in dismay, "Why you!" He shoved him, "Just what the hell was that then!? That's evil!" His arms crossed with a huff, "I'll have you know my face hurts from all of your shenanigans. How am I supposed to go to sleep after that?"

"Your face hurts? Hm, you really are sensitive, aren't you? In any case, I'm sure my own fatigue will rub off onto yours, don't you worry." He yawned, watching the champion do the same without realizing.

Though his eyes rolled in response to his words, "I have too many questions but, for now, I guess I have one more: what are your expectations? I'm not um…" He glanced away, "…supposed to kiss you…back, right?"

The deity could have radiated flowers if that were within his ability, "I don't expect anything of course~. In fact, maybe I'd go so far as to advise that you don't engage me back." He laughed, "Your face felt so hot a second ago it likely could have lit a fire. As impressive as that would be, I'd rather your interactions with me not equate to pain."

Link took a moment to consider this information before questionably returning his gaze, "You're holding back, aren't you?" His pupils narrowed as he watched the rest of the glowing marks appear on the deity's cheeks and forehead.

'Is he really challenging me? At this time of night?' He whispered to keep the increased echo from reaching unintended ears, "With everything said, you'd do your best not to tempt me." Not a second later he dauntingly loomed over the knight, enjoying the way his skin reflected the glowing colors from his markings, "You're adorable after all and make me happy."

The champion blinked back, "Only you could manage to make that sound threatening." He quickly flipped to face the wall, "Um…see you in the morning."

"You're something else, fair knight. Where do you think you're going?" He wrapped him into a secure cuddle, shoving his cheek into the top of his head. The deity let sleep consume them both.

…

Come the next morning, Time's eyelids creaked open like an old door. The ethereal sense, that he would argue severely clouded his judgement, had left him with a kindling warmth in his face—and not the good kind. 'I think it'd rather slit my throat before I willingly call him "exciting" to his face again…but, at least he has a better idea of where I'm coming from when that happens to me…to some extent. Still,' He tried to find comfort in Link's bedhead, 'I CAN'T BELIEVE I DID THAT DAMMIT! I CAN'T BELIEVE I DID ANY OF IT!'

His eyes trudged to the Master Sword who bore witness to that entire exchange, 'It doesn't even make me feel better to blame at least half of it on Din.' The memory of their encounter was fresh in his mind—aside from every excruciating detail of what happened afterward with his descendant. 'I can still feel where she nipped me with her teeth…Ugh, I could've sworn she was trying to suck my blood afterwards too…' His hand almost wanted to graze over the different spots across his torso, but something told him it wasn't a good idea, '…it's surprising she didn't go elsewhere…' He mentally sighed, his gaze flicking back to the champion, "Good morning."

Link flinched awake with a gasp, taking a few breaths to gather his composure before eyeing him, "Are you—"

"Yes," He spoke through gritted teeth, "I'm fine now. Thank you very much." 'Wait, what the!?'

The knight smirked as he quickly sat up and hunched over the Hero, "Am I still adorable? Or—what was that other thin—exciting?"

Time's eyes widened as a blush spread across his cheeks, "LINK!" He pushed him over, fending off his kicking legs while trying to straddle him, "Why the hell are you bringing that up right now!?"

His laughter filled the room, "What, did I tempt you too much?" But his snarky expression quickly flipped when Time singlehandedly grabbed his wrists and pinned them over his head.

He wore a playfully irritated look as his nose hovered half a centimeter above his. 'Dammit, at least I learned something from getting this done to me several times yesterday!' "You cheeky little shit!" He was in the process of coming up with what to do next when he stiffened at the sensation of another—no two pairs of eyes looking at him. The Hero's moved to glance at the door, finding both the Princess and her friend standing agape at what they saw. His shoulders slumped, his pressed lips drawing a line while he let go of the Princess's knight, "I know you both probably walked in right as I..." He sighed, "But he started it, I swear."

Zelda stood with her hands over her mouth as Impa struggled to speak a full sentence, "How are y—why is—but that doesn't—WHAAAT!? " She shook her head in frustration, "All he said was something was exciting and that warrants tackling him!?"

The magic surrounding him blazed like a roaring flame as he slowly inhaled. He snatched a fistful of Link's shirt and yanked him off his back. His threatening gaze could have cut the air as it pierced through the middle of the champion's face. The Hero exhaled, muttering under his breath, "You're lucky she didn't mention what you said afterward, damn dork." Time knew they understood the curse word, but he was more focused on trying to calm his simultaneously racing mind. His demeanor became aloof yet irritated as he let the fabric slip from his fingers, "I really…well he's fine, no?"

Link wore a stunned expression as he nodded, though his focus appeared to be more on the magic than anything else.

"Tch," the Sheikah tapped her foot against the floor, "I suppose that answers that. What the heck were you two doing up here last night anyways? Me and Zelda are trying to sleep and whoosh! Some loud—I dunno—thing comes racing past our door!" She pointed to Link, "And then you must have dropped something or something fell because we heard that next. Were you having some kind of night terror? What was going on?"

'I am fine,' Time mentally coaxed, feeling his blood beginning to grow warm, 'that other part of me is not offended for her technically interfering with my affairs, we're playing by their set of rules, calm down.' His ears lifted in surprise at Link's soft-spoken voice.

"Oh, um, he came back late and then one of us said something stupid and…well…" He glanced at his ancestor before looking back to Impa, "We were just messing around. Sorry we disturbed you."

Zelda blinked, "Did he look like this when he came back?" She looked at the Hero, "When did this happen?"

They answered at the same time, "This morning."

Time found it hard to hold back a smile at the coincidence. He continued with a shrug, "I really have no idea myself. I'm just assuming it has to do with this blessing-thing." Which had died down from its initial flare up. He made a face, "Hey speaking of which, I'm not exactly appreciating this whole 'blessed one'-thing coming from the Hy—people. It's weird. I understand where they're coming from, I get it, but it's still really strange." 'I swear…I better not be adopting the way they talk this fast! Dear Goddesses…at least they don't seem to notice.'

Impa was frank, "Good luck trying to control that." She gestured to her friend, "Zelda and the King know full well you can't keep the masses from coming up with that sort of stuff. What's more, I'm sure it's crossed your mind but watch your back." Her brown eyes hinted at her frustration as they flicked to the floor, "The Yiga have been awfully silent lately. That could still be thanks to you—yes, I heard—but we can't know for sure how long that will keep up."

"Ahem," the Princess cut back in, "Onto the original reason why we came to wake you, we found this amazing facility beyond the Temple of Time just up the hill! I think we're close to determining what it could be used for and I wanted to show you it!"

The Sheikah turned to her, "Oh, Purah and Robbie should be here too."

"That's wonderful news!" She beamed.

"Pfft, I could see this coming from a mile away after what happened yesterday." She looked back at them, "We'll see you down in…five minutes?" Impa watched Link indicate as much before closing the door.

The Hero put a hand over his mouth when he tried to speak, listening to their footsteps grow farther away. "Sorry," he removed it, purposefully eyeing him, "I'm trying to keep something like that from happening again."

Link smirked, "Mhm, I bet."

"Ugh," he stood, retrieving his gauntlets, "you kill me, you know that?" He clicked his tongue as pulled the first one on, recounting the more questionable things the champion had said, "'That's evil…holding back…' just what were you trying to do? You better not think you're entirely innocent here."

The knight paused right as he was pulling his tunic over his head. This was something of a realization to him, "Oh I did say those things…hm." He continued to pull it over.

Time scoffed, "And?"

"And I think I was being honest," he replied, despite color warming his cheeks, "They both described you at the time."

His head cocked to the side as a perplexed smile emerged, "Fine," his hands went to his hips, "pretend neither of those things imply anything, Link. Play with fire and get burned." Changing focus, the Hero took a moment to look at himself in the vanity mirror, murmuring, "At least it's not that awful shirt Cotera gave me…those blue gems are still there too, interesting…" A question came to mind as he looked over his shoulder, finding he already had the knight's attention, "Is black my color?"

Link scratched his head, "…sure? It does look like you should be wearing something over that though. What are you going to do without a sword?"

The words freely flowed from his mouth, "I have one." He held his hand out in front of him as the double helix blade materialized into it, donning an uncanny glow. He flinched at his actions, quickly speaking, "Um, but I probably won't use it." His heart picked up speed as he eagerly watched it evaporate into thin air, "I-I've got a bow and that shield you gave me. That's plenty."

The champion had scrambled in his direction when it appeared. Now he slid to a halt in front of him, "Wha—I wanted to touch it! Can I see it again? Please?"

"Maybe later, we're taking too long up here." 'I really need to reign this…carelessness in. This isn't good.' Before doing anything else, he closed his eyes, thinking of the void, 'Really!? No way!' Despite the way he looked and the fact that he just called his sword, he still sat in his noble form, unmoved from the cliff. The only thing that was different was the water…or powers that filled the sea. The previously uniform swirling appeared to inhabit some disarray to an extent. Enough to stir up a brief spray here and there, though its brightness hadn't changed in the slightest. 'Gods above…' he felt stupefied, 'Even like this I'm still using nothing? I wonder what this would have looked like last night.'

The concern he felt cast a shadow in his eyes and stayed as he followed the champion down the steps. They quickly ate together and found the other two outside conversing with the eccentric geniuses. Purah hopped back at the sight of him.

"Whoa!" She blinked in surprise, "You look scary!" Her eyes surveyed the other's reactions, "Okay what? I cannot be the only one who thinks that!"

No worries, Robbie could see where she was coming from, "He does look a little grumpy but I suppose constantly having red light bounce off your face will give anyone a sort of threatening aura."

"Can you control it at all? What did you ask for?" There was a curious sparkle in her eye.

Time opened his mouth to answer when his eyes took in the multitude of other people watching them. Expressions ranging from shocked to frightened to curious and even enticed all stared in his direction. "Can we do this elsewhere? We're talking to the entire plateau right here."

"Fair point," Purah agreed.

Luckily they managed to keep their pressing questions at bay until they crossed in front of the Temple of Time, "Oh yeeaaaah-yuuhhh!~ That reminds me!" Robbie bounced on his feet, "Sis was telling us about how your eyes did this doodley disappearing act about here yesterday."

"Robbie, what did I tell you about calling me that?" Impa scolded, "I'm not your sister! Just Purah's!"

He shooed her words away, "Close enough." His goggled face refocused on the Hero's, "Any theories?"

"Well me and Zelda seem to think it's because of the statues, but it's very inconsistent at best. I've been around plenty of them and only two have done this to me." 'If I were entirely honest, and we considered that I was nowhere near her tether when this first happened, it makes no sense to make that connection.' Though there was a perk to leading them astray, 'It's not like they'll dare tear one of them down to see if it's because of something inside of it.'

Purah noted this, "Very interesting." Her gaze switched to her sister's, "You're right, this will be hard to test." Which reminded her, "Right, so about this blessing you received. What happened?"

His ear flicked but he explained the premise of what led up to him praying to Din, "After that, I figured I'd been heard and saw a giant ball of magic heading to the temple. When it hit me, it exploded into lots of sparkles, but it didn't knock me back or anything. I didn't feel very different then, and I still don't feel too different now. Also no, I don't feel like I can control it aside from whatever emotion I have appearing to influence it." Might as well set that straight.

"Maybe it'll activate so to speak whenever you encounter monsters," Robbie theorized, "That would make the most sense to me based on what you prayed for." They'd both already experimented with how the magic affected the air around him. It's clearly just for show.

'I can tell both of you wish I prayed for something related to the Calamity or your research though…Dear Goddesses.' Speaking of which, 'I'll have to see if I can find the time to talk to Farore,' His eyes drifted to Link's right hand, 'There's literally no way I still have it…and yet she was acting like it made sense that I do. Generally speaking, aside from Hylia, she wasn't surprised to see me the way I was, meanwhile Din was! I think I remember her saying she knows my secrets as well? How?'

They continued beyond the temple and to the right where an old stone path peeked through the overgrown grass. It led them up to a secluded cliff that had the entrance to a cave sitting behind it. The Hero had to keep his hand from drifting to aid the light ache in his head, 'Geez, don't tell me it's the altitude doing this…' Despite this, of course his adventurous spirit wandered to the edge and gazed across this Hyrule. "Amazing, you can see nearly everything from here!" He tugged his descendant over to see for himself. His joy at watching his eyes light up lessened when the only response he gave was a cordial nod. Lame.

Zelda motioned him to the front of the group as they went inside, "See?" She sounded giddy, "Isn't this so fascinating!?"

They entered a long hall where, upon closer inspection, swirling designs filled the dark colored walls. Protruding from them were scarce yet intriguing lines connecting to dots…it almost reminded him of a constellation. Bits and pieces of one. 'They glow with that same orange from the Sheikah slate too!' Even the stairs they took to get inside were made of an entirely different material he'd never seen or felt before. Down a longer set of steps, the mood of the room shifted from warm to cool when the blue…lanterns hanging from either wall became the main source of light along with a solemn, pale ceiling. Just ahead was a ramp that led to a platform and beyond it…was a door.

His eyes excitedly met the Princess's, "Yes it is!" He couldn't lie, a similar feeling to the one he felt around that patch of grass was in full bloom inside him.

The swirling motif from the walls spread into a path that led to the platform. However, just before the ramp was a circle in the floor. The outer rim of it glowed orange along with a smaller circle in the middle doing the same. It almost looked like a target, only there were dots connecting the center to the rim. The curious designs didn't stop there though. They lined the floors beside the walls and stretched up to make the doorframe.

Time longed to…well…touch everything. Let his fingers run across the designs. See if the lanterns emitted any heat. Even just check for dust. 'Though, it's not like I forgot what happened when I kinda instructed that guardian…I think I'd explode right here if this orange turned teal…' His attention was brought to the pedestal just to their left, "Oh, what's this?"

"It must be a place to use the Sheikah slate. It's similar to the shrines," Purah speculated.

"Oh right," Impa gestured to the door ahead, "It's worth noting that it's closed and we have no idea how to get in. Take a look for yourself."

The two researchers and the Hero did just that. They each peered at the circular "lock" sitting in the center where the iconic Sheikah eye stared back at them. Seeing that it extended from the door, Robbie wrapped his hands around it, trying to twist it this way and that.

"Sheesh! This thing—" His voice was strained as he propped his feet against it, trying to pull it out, "—won't budge! Gah!" His hands slipped off, making him fall on his back.

Time was busy rubbing his chin, trying to come up with things that made sense to try. 'Would any of my songs work? There's no way…' He frowned, beginning to pace, 'That door behind the waterfall back at the Spring of Power looked similar, minus the lock. Also this one must open vertically seeing as the panels are up and down. It doesn't look as sturdy as the other one…maybe I could bust through it?' He knocked, 'Oh hell no, that is thick rock. I'll break my hands.' He blinked at someone touching his forearm.

It was Purah with an enchanted glaze over her eyes, "Please, for the love of Hylia, I'll pay you if I have to. Just please say whatever you're thinking out loud."

His brows rose, "O-Oh, okay." He didn't think his thought process was all that interesting, but sure. "Um…well there was another door kind of like this one behind a waterfall at the Spring of Power, only it looked more durable and the lines went across it like this," His finger hovered over the door as he drew horizontal lines rather than the vertical ones they saw, "This door is lighter colored and so I knocked on it to see if it was thinner—it's definitely not. There's no way we can bust it open without…well without a guardian if we're using force." He pointed to the pedestal, "Have you tried using the Sheikah slate with that? Maybe it acts like a key."

Zelda sighed, "Believe me, that was the first thing we thought of. We flipped it every which way too just to be sure."

"Hm weird, I get the feeling there's no other way this would open then. I've seen my fair share of locked doors and surpassed them all…even if it took some complex workarounds…" His head began to feel lighter than before, making him wince, 'Why is this happening? I want to see if I can see beyond this door, but I need to be able to concentrate to do that!' Strangely, it carried a similar feeling to whenever Tera was trying to talk to him in the desert. 'I might as well try…as damned as that would be…'

"I'll see if I can't come up with something, I'll let you guys continue looking," was his excuse so he could stay unbothered as he leaned against the wall and closed his eyes, appearing deep in thought. As his focus changed, the ache in his head began to fade, 'What. Who is it or what are you?' The response was immediate.

'Blessed are we to be graced by your presence, O Fierce Deity…'

'What the HELL!?'

'How can I be of service?'

'The…' His lips pressed together in utter disbelief. It sounded partially robotic, but passable enough to be human, 'The shrine-thing TALKS!? How does it—just HOW advanced were these Sheikah from ten thousand years ago!?' He took a breath. He had a façade to maintain. 'W-What are your…services?' The Hero's head jolted as images illuminated in his head. 'Huh? What is that?' He could see a bed following the design motifs of the shrine that sat in the center of the back half of the room, emerged from the floor. Above it was a blue glowing mass that extended into vein-like branches that connected it to the ceiling. It gave the notion of a heart, but also a bulbous bluebell from how it flared open at the bottom.

'You don't appear weary from any wounds. Our training grounds are restricted to those capable of controlling the Divine Beasts. Would you care to train?'

Time gulped at the implications that instilled as the room faded into the one he was currently in, only the focus was on the glowing circle in the floor.

'Step onto the transporter should you care to train.'

'W-Wait a second. There's something else on this plateau, something deep in the ground near the edge. What is it?' He didn't get the feeling he'd get an explanation from any one or any thing else. Might as well shoot his shot. It appeared to be formulating its response.

'…'

'Primary transporter is currently on standby. Awaiting the signal to transmit instructions back to main control center. Area information sufficient for use of travel.'

'So I am right about that spot being some massive on-switch…at least based on what I can understand from this.' His eyes briefly opened to spy on what the others were doing. Robbie and Purah were still focused on the door while Zelda and Impa were passing the Sheikah slate between each other over the pedestal. Link sort of stood next to Zelda, watching their antics unfold. Much to his reassurance, the shrine hadn't changed colors by any noticeable means. He bit his lip.

'How do I open the door?'

'There appears to be something malfunctioning with the Sheikah slate. One moment. Authenticating.'

Time's heart skipped several beats as he watched the Sheikah symbol on the lock turn blue before making a full rotation as it retreated into the door. The panels synchronously lifted, starting with the middle. It made the shape of an arrow as it disappeared from view.

The room collectively gasped. Meanwhile the Hero simply cocked his head in interest and continued beyond the door, motioning for them to follow. There it was. The same room the shrine showed him, "Huh, strange." His voice echoed, the others hadn't stepped in yet, "Are you guys coming or what?" As he looked back to the bed, his eyes caught sight of another pedestal. Strolling over, this one looked like it could actually hold the Sheikah slate compared to the flat tops the others had.

Impa carefully stepped inside, already chastising him, "How do you just walk in like this place doesn't have traps or something!?"

"It obviously doesn't have traps. Everything looks too solid and too uniform for there to be traps," He reasoned. 'It's not uncannily uniform either. There's a difference.'

Zelda sidestepped her friend to get past the doorway. Her eyes were filled with wonder, "O-Oh my gosh…just what is that?" She pointed to the thing Time dubbed heart-like that hung from the ceiling. Her eyes widened at the pedestal, gasping, "Ah! Another one!" After her came Purah, then Robbie, and then finally Link. He too looked mystified.

The Hero figured he'd get out of the way and let them do their thing with the pedestal. He sat on the corner where the walls surrounding the bed joined, thinking about what he'd done and what he learned, 'If the Sheikah slate is already malfunctioning for some reason…surely whatever they're trying to do with it over there might not have any effect. But then…why does it feel right that could be the case? I want them to succeed in defeating this Calamity…don't I?' He looked to the patterned floor, 'I do, I'm just not going to interfere with the process…all that much. Dammit. Yet, it's been so long, and we've—they've done all these things…and somehow it only feels like the beginning.' Once again, his gaze drifted over to Link's hand.

As if cued, the champion turned to face him, walking over with interest in his step. "Do you know why the door opened?" He practically mouthed.

"Maybe." He mouthed back, resuming a quiet tone, "Though, I thought of something. Can I kiss your hand again?"

He looked a little disgruntled at the question, "Sure? Well, I mean, why?

Time smirked something stupid, "You realize you already said yes, right? It's funny how you keep doing that. Anyways, something crossed my mind about how it might work." Then he whispered, "Like why your hands go numb sometimes."

Apparently that was enough to get his approval. While the others messed around with the Sheikah slate and inspected the room, Link tugged his glove off and eagerly watched his next move.

He couldn't hold back a quiet snicker as he took his hand, "Ew it's sweaty." That got him a threatening look, to which received an eyeroll in response. Getting back on task, he pecked the back of his hand, frowning when nothing happened.

Link's other hand went to his hip. An unimpressed brow muttered, "What the hell?" Then a wry smile sprouted, "Did I tempt you again someway, somehow?"

The Hero gave him a look and squeezed his hand as a warning. It was bad enough that just referencing it made his cheeks red. He noticed the Triforce of Courage wasn't shining because he wasn't using his left hand to hold it. Shrugging, he switched them, wasting no time once the pale triangle appeared.

In the past, doing this gave both of them a short zap, but what transpired now was a dizzying sensation Time felt while Link's fingers curled under the sustained electric feeling he received. He closed his eyes to maintain his focus. He could start to make out images of his own adventure back in his Hyrule. He saw when he met Zelda for the first time, the bomb flowers in Goron City, a young and sassy Princess Ruto. Though, while the images were random and out of order, it was clear that it was nothing past what he deemed the beginning of his adventure. A pang hit his head, making him pull away, "Ugh, I think my lips went numb…" But when his gaze lifted from the glowing hand, he was met with five pairs of startled eyes. "What?" 'Is it because his hand is glowing brighter than before?' Then he spied Purah nudging Robbie with a suspicious look in her eye.

"Your hair turned silver!" Impa exclaimed.

He blinked, letting go of Link's hand and pulling a strand of hair in front of his eyes. The dim lighting in the room didn't do him any favors in determining the exact color, but it certainly wasn't blonde anymore. "Wow…that's—" Flashbacks to his hand flickering as Farore held it made him pause, shaking it from his mind, "I-I don't understand how that happened." 'I know how to fix this…but,' He didn't like the vibe that was coming from the two researchers, 'I'd better not do it front of them…What are they thinking of?' He figured it was just his hair or else Impa would have said it too.

Purah cocked her head, looking pleasantly intrigued at the Triforce piece, "Does that always happen when you touch his hand?"

"Uh, yea—"

"Since when?" She looked at Link, "What does it feel like?"

Time's ears showed his hesitation, "Since he pulled the Master Sword. To my knowledge it doesn't feel like anything…right?"

The knight nodded.

"Can you do it again? See if something different will happen?" She asked.

"Kiss his hand? Again? You understand that's a weird thing to ask me to do, right?" He shrugged, "All it does is give us both a shock."

Robbie hopped in, "Well does it do the same to anyone else?"

The Hero looked to the Princess, hiding his surprise that she for once didn't appear eager to answer.

"Yes, me actually," She replied, "I've already conducted a study on it. It's just a mysterious phenomenon me and…well the champion experience when he does that."

Purah pressed further, "Why silver hair? What could that mean? Are you terribly old?"

"Hm," A thoughtful gleam caught the Princess's green eyes, "Actually, I bet that has to do with your mask doesn't it? I remember it having silver hair too."

Purah and Robbie's jaws smacked the floor in awe, "HUUUUUUH!?"

"Princess do tell!"

Time's face was tight as he listened to her essentially give them the gist of what he told her on Vah Naboris. He mentally facepalmed, 'I'm pretty sure she thinks she can tell them because I told her in the first place in front of Urbosa…this is not how I thought today would go.'

Robbie nearly flung his goggles off his face when he whipped around, "How do you think that doesn't make you a god!? It fused with you!"

"Because not everything is black and white like that?" 'Dammit, it's so hard not to sound defensive about this!' "The way I think about it now, there's just me and then me after I put the mask on, y'know? I don't think it's that complicated."

Purah looked like she begged to differ, "But then how can you exist looking younger or older? Normal Hylians can't do that to our knowledge."

He stood, "First off, that's an inherently long, complicated story that you're not entitled to know! Second, I am supposed to look like this! I'm eighteen years old! Well…minus the silver hair and," The Hero loosely gestured to his clothes, "probably this too." 'Normal Hylians!? Just what the hell are they getting at!?'

Zelda nodded, "He has a point you know. Even though it seems like the logical conclusion to make, his mask isn't from our time. How are we to assume that's how it works when we have nothing to compare it to?" She managed to stump the geniuses.

'Thank goodness, at least that lie is fairly believable. Goddesses above…' The conversation ended there, after all they had yet to determine what the room was for. 'But this is so…out of nowhere too…' He analyzed the things they said, trying to look for a gap that gave away their reasoning. 'There's literally no way they didn't already believe that about me or else they would have went "really? But how is that possible!? It's a mask!"' It rightfully concerned him, 'I mean, blessing aside, I thought I'd been doing a decent job at keeping this deity-thing under wraps. Most everything I do can be explained by simply being older or the mask, not that I'm different or not Hylian. Tsk, I'll be patient…' His eyes trailed to look at the opening of the "heart" above the bed, 'I'm sure I'll know soon.'

If everyone could agree on one thing, the utility of this room lie in the bed at the center of it. Everyone except the Hero took turns lying in it to see if anything would happen. His arm was tugged by the Princess.

"Please?" She pleaded with rather convincing puppy eyes, "It'll only be for a second! It's for science!"

He refused, "Did any of you look at the thing right above you? I feel like it's gonna pour something on you. Hell, what if it's sticky?" He knew this was supposed to heal someone, he just had no idea how.

Impa smirked, "You've surpassed every locked door you've encountered but won't lie in a bed?" She knew what she was doing.

'Honestly, I'm more weary of the idea that this will make my clothes disappear and I won't be able to do anything about it.' He'd planned to ask the shrine how it works, but then each of their turns felt like mere seconds before it was finally his. "Fine, but I want to check something first." Link was idly watching this go down before his ancestor pulled him over by his left arm. He quickly undid the wrappings around his forearm and yanked up his sleeve, confirming his suspicions, 'I thought that hadn't healed just yet.'

The "scratch" Link sustained while Time had been captured was in the middle of scabbing over. It looked fine, but it didn't look good. It was beyond him why he had yet to sip a potion to heal it in the first place. He ushered him forward, still carrying his arm while he made him hold it under the blue glow coming from the "heart." To his astonishment, he'd guessed the function of it correctly. A second later, clear water dripped from the opening, the drops falling exactly along the line of his cut. The others crowded around as they watched the champion's skin regenerate before their eyes.

"Th-Thanks…" Link muttered. His gaze was fixed on his forearm.

The Hero chuckled, "You're thanking the shrine, right? See, something about this room made me think of a hot spring." He waved his hands, "I know that doesn't make a lot of sense, but still, it was the impression I got. Then, I got the idea you had to show it that you were injured if it was going to work. If this whole place is one big machine, how would it…I dunno inherently know? Anyways, this is cool. Pretty useful too." He was thoroughly impressed as he inspected the healed skin. 'Nice…wait,' He squinted, pulling his arm closer, 'Ah, a very slight scar. I suppose nothing truly beats a potion in this world.' "What?" He addressed the several pairs of eyes on him once more, "I was looking for scars."

Zelda finished jotting her thoughts in her journal, "Either way, wonderful! This is a medical facility!" She bounced on the balls of her feet, "I'm so glad we were able to figure that out!"

"Is there anything else you wanted to do here, Princess?" Purah asked.

"Actually," She looked to Time, "That favor from yesterday. I know you already held it once before, but I was wondering if the Sheikah slate would react any differently to you now." Her smile was hopeful as she gingerly passed it to him.

He cautiously took it, 'For the love of everything sacred and holy, if this changes colors in my hands I will smite… myself as hard as possible.' A curious brow raised as it turned on per usual, opening to the screen where you were meant to choose multiple "runes" but only the camera function was available. There were four other available slots. 'I wonder if there's some way to determine what these could be.' Swiping left, he was brought to the generalized map, only instead of showing the shape of the room, it portrayed a dark static screen. 'Makes sense, maybe…the others aren't reacting to it. This must be normal.' He activated the camera, gazing at different parts of the room through it to see if they appeared differently, "Weird, I was totally expecting it to show something like hidden rooms or secrets."

Now he flipped it around, looking into the orange and blue eye, 'Hmph, do you speak like this place does? Tell me its name.' It remained the same. Now he spoke to the shrine, 'What are you called? What does this do?'

'Apologies for failing to initiate welcome protocol. Initiating now.'

'Welcome to the Shrine of Resurrection, O Fierce Deity.'

'Internal libraries report missing data on the functions of the Sheikah slate.'

'Please place the Sheikah slate in the pedestal for an accurate status update.'

Time frowned. He watched everyone but Link try putting it in the pedestal to no avail, 'It didn't work before, why would it work now?'

'…'

'Interference from main control center detected.'

'Please resolve the issue before placing the Sheikah slate.'

He sighed, "Yeah I've got nothing. I wish it gave any hint at what the other runes are supposed to be. There's no doubt they would be useful in some way." The Hero handed it back, "Sorry, Zelda. Seems its secrecy is equal to everyone."

She shrugged, "It was worth a try. Consider your favor complete."

Impa motioned to the door with her head, "Well, let's get going. We've been here for hours and I'm getting hungry." Several nods followed this reasoning.

As they exited, Time took care not to step into the circle in the middle of the path. He made it to the stairs when he paused as the shrine spoke to him for a final time.

'Initiating farewell protocol.'

'Farewell, O Fierce Deity. It was an honor to serve you.'

'Holy moly, these Sheikah thought of everything, didn't they? Maybe Hylia used to interact with them, thus giving them a reason to make this…able to recognize the divine? I have no idea. I bet over half of this is powered by some kind of magic anyways.' He wore a small smile as he stepped outside. Not a moment after, a dove landed on his shoulder.

"And just what are you up to, curious devil?" Hylia cooed, pressing her head into his cheek, "I nearly got bored waiting for you."

His astonishment was quick to leave, "Ha, of course you were doing that."

Impa tried to get Purah and Robbie to continue down the path, but they were too dumbstruck at witnessing the Hero talk to a bird. "Guys c'mon, this is just another thing he can do. It's not that big of a deal and it's not like he's gonna tell us what they're talking about."

"Mm, by the way," Her feathers ruffled as she got comfortable, "I formally apologize for my pushiness regarding your companion. Though, I am glad to see you finally treat him the way you ought to."

"Eh!?" His eyes fluttered as a feeling in his cheeks foreshadowed an oncoming blush.

"Yes, so strange. I couldn't understand how you two seemed so close and yet you never properly do anything to show it." Then she started rattling off different customs for every other thing, all of which included some form of intimate act.

Time's heart pounded against his chest as his face turned several shades of red. Without thinking, he zipped away with her, finding himself standing in slushy snow in the middle of a cedar forest.

The dove shifted into the Goddess sitting on his shoulder, "Ah~, finally want to let me show you around? Also, hi.~" She covered his temples and forehead with kisses.

"Hylia you can't say things that make my face do that!" He held her in his arms. She was surprisingly light for being half a foot taller than him!

"Aw, that's why you ran away? I thought Hylians found those colors flattering."

"No they don't! Someone's face turning red means anything from embarrassment to anger to insinuating they like you!" He found a thick log, taking a seat with her in his lap. She'd probably be fine sitting on the cold wood, but that felt rude to do.

"How needlessly complex." The Goddess commented, "Though at least that explains why that happened with your companion over and over again. I just like the transformation itself, the way it changes color so fast. I think it's cute."

His cheeks burned more, "Why am I not surprised? Also why in all the land are you watching us!?" That irked him more than he thought it would.

"Hm?" She held his cheek, looking confused, "Of course I've been keeping an eye on you. Not that I've been doing anything, just watching, no worries."

'No worries she says…' He puffed out a sigh, "Um, right. Well, I'm glad you want to show me around, but I'm pretty sure they're expecting me to come back kind of soon."

Hylia was indifferent as she played with his hair, "I suppose I'm not entitled to your time if you say I'm not." She inspected the color more closely, "Ah, finally going natural I see? Hm…still rather short though."

"N-Na— no. This happened when I was kissing his hand for some reason and I'm waiting for a good time to change it back." He got back on topic, "Otherwise, what's so enjoyable about being with me? I still don't understand it."

She appeared to think for a moment before answering, "I simply like to, my love. It's far more entertaining than watching from above."

"I guess I'm glad I can be good company." 'Oh right, I could ask her about what I saw!' "Hey actually, like I was saying before, when I kissed his hand I s—"

The Goddess sat up as if she were a doe that heard a twig snap. Her expression became annoyed yet apologetic, "So sorry, my sweet, a certain singer is calling for me." She slumped into hugging him, sighing, "I don't want to go…unfortunately this is goodbye for now. Tell your companion I said hi." With that, she poofed into thousands of golden sparkles.

"Dammit…I guess I'll ask her later…" He zipped back to the Temple of Time, figuring they'd made it that far. Luckily he was right, they'd just come down the steps onto the stone walkway when he came to a stop in front of them, "Sorry about that! I thought I'd spare you her antics."

Robbie pitifully mumbled, "Honestly I wish you stayed…"

Purah was more straightforward, "I know we closed this discussion earlier, but really! I mean, how on earth does a Hylian talk to birds!?"

This struck a chord with Zelda. She snapped, "How on earth does anyone speak to fairies? Instead of opening the discussion again, why don't we come to an open conclusion that we can't expect every aspect he has to make perfect sense? He said it yesterday: he's from a different time! Of course things were different! As different as they were ten thousand years ago I'm sure!" Her thoughtful eyes flit to the ground as she crossed her arms, "Sorry, I just find all of this questioning fruitless. It might satisfy our personal curiosities, but that's just it—personal. We don't have time for personal inquiries!" She gestured to him with her hand, speaking plainly to the eccentric geniuses, maybe to Impa as well, "We already have his allegiance, what more do we need? All he's done this entire time is help us!" An edge sharpened her tone, "Finding ways to qualify that fact is disrespectful to say the least. He could truly be—I don't know—a fish for all I care, and I'd still be grateful for everything he's done."

'Wow…this is the Zelda that snapped at those guards for thinking I was her suitor at the time…' He was expressionless on the outside, but on the inside he was grateful she came to his rescue.

The Princess was curt, "Honestly, I don't know how you'd expect me to deal with answering such questions, so I understand less—research or not—why you expect him to do the same. This feels like I'm watching the beginning of one of my conversations with my father."

That was the final line that jabbed the researchers at their core. Their dumbstruck gazes soon displayed that they truly reconsidered their actions. Purah still managed to stay upbeat, "Ah…I really do get carried away sometimes. I'm sorry about that, Hero." She nudged Robbie who sniffled.

"I-I'll have a serenade written by sundown—sniff—I promise."

Time pat him on the back with a weary smile, "You…shouldn't do that. I forgive you, don't worry."

After dropping the topic for good, they brought up different analytics on the divine beasts. Namely how effective Daruk's would be at stomping group attacks since he recently got it to rain a deadly shower of rocks the other day. Mipha reports she felt she was close to discovering another ability Vah Ruta had, and…they couldn't get ahold of Revali. Go figure. That remained the subject of conversation while they ate.

"Oh right," Zelda announced in the middle of their luncheon, "I'm making you all aware that we're staying another night before continuing to the Faron region tomorrow morning. I hope to attend the Spring of Courage next like Cotera suggested. Hopefully that'll yield more results."

The Hero found himself spending the rest of the waking hours with the others while he yearned to try to talk to Farore or Hylia again, or even Link should he get the chance to spare a moment alone with him that lasted longer than five minutes. 'At least I learned something interesting about the divine beasts and how the tests with the guardians are going.' They were finding little to nothing about them, but it was no one's business that he was a little happy about it.

Soon he yawned, sitting at the edge of the bed as he pulled off his gauntlets. His fingers appreciated the freedom. Time sat it in his lap while he took the other off. Instead it was quickly snatched by the knight.

Link slipped it on. It was a little loose on him, "I know where these are from, y'know."

"Believe me, I know you know." He watched him try to bend the metal plates with little luck, "Oh by the way, that dove wanted you to know she said hi. I guess she's taken a slight liking to you."

"Really? I didn't do anything, though."

"That doesn't matter to her. She's just like that."

The candlelight caught the knight's eyes, "Oooh, you're gonna show me your sword again, right?"

It materialized into his hands, "This one?" He held it horizontally with the glowing flat of the blade spanning across his lap. It was nearly as long as he was tall.

"Why won't you use it?"

His tone half joked, "Link you're gonna pray to Hylia I never have to use it. I won't give too much away, but this thing can be terribly destructive." He knew he was lucky he used it in a canyon of all places. Any other landscape might have developed scars, whether that be shown through cut off treetops or gashes in hills. His eyes fixated on the champion's hand as it grew near the double helix blade. The want to snarl bubbled in his gut with a pertinent threat to unleash should he dare come closer. The deity gently grabbed his hand, moving it away, "Yeah…I don't think I want you to touch it. I know how this sounds, but," He bashfully scratched the back of his head, "it's actually getting on my nerves and I don't want to snap at you. Let alone wake anyone up."

He understood, lacing his fingers together, "That's okay. I think we'd all collectively piss ourselves if you growled the same way you did back in Gerudo Town while looking the way you do now. It was threatening then, but I'd have to contend with sleeping with a monster otherwise haha."

"Aw, a monster? That just hurts my feelings, Link," They snickered at the ugly frown he made.

"Oh yeah, what did you find out from my hand earlier? You probably don't want to hear it, but it was kinda cool watching your hair change like that so suddenly."

He let the sword vaporize away, "That's the nicer perspective to take, I guess. Anyways, all I saw were glimpses of my own adventure. I didn't have any expectations, but seeing something I've already done doesn't exactly tell me anything about what's going on here. Well…if that's how I should be interpreting it." 'Shit, I didn't mean to say that like I expected the Triforce to tell me what was going on. At least I sound like I could be wrong!'

Link sat beside him, removing the reinforced glove, "Weird. I was sort of hoping you'd find out something about what's going on too. I think we're—" He corrected himself, "I think Zelda is moving in the right direction with everything. Though I can't help but wonder if I should be doing anything, y'know? Am I really doing my part to the best of my abilities? I didn't know it looked like guarding the Princess the whole time."

Time hid his smile. "Oh wow, I did not expect the sass there, Link. Joking aside, I feel the same way. I thought I'd find the answers to the shrines up here, but all I found was a mean patch of grass."

The knight grinned, trying to stifle a laugh, "Time that sounds so depressing when you put it like that, Dear Hylia! Though," He looked hopeful, "other things happened too."

"If you're talking about this," The Hero referred to the magic that continued to flicker, "I beg to disagree. I felt like a dog getting pulled on a leash having to deal with all those people just staring at me today. I get it, but it's unsettling, especially when they look scared of all things. I bet this dumb hair didn't help either."

"Oh yeah, what are you gonna do about that?" He poked at one of the silvery strands.

"Great question, give me a sec." He closed his eyes, thinking back to the obsidian cliff presiding over the sea. 'Hmph, still haven't moved at all, huh? I suppose I'll know I'm in trouble if it ever happens.' Time took a deep breath, focusing on feeding light to the restless waters. However, after a few minutes, nothing floated from his face. Not even sweat. 'Don't…don't tell me I'm actually stuck with this hair…' He must have looked disappointed when he opened his eyes, for Link was already giving his back a reassuring pat.

"I'm not sure what all you tried to do there, but if it makes you feel better, it doesn't look bad. It almost looks kinda like a pearl-color in the moonlight, but in a blue kind of way instead of pink," He described.

The Hero's smile was small, "Thanks." He made the knight's forelock tickle his cheek before yawning. The subject reminded him of how strange Purah and Robbie were that morning, "Hey, what do you think was going on with those two practically suggesting I'm not Hylian? I mean—"

Link's expression was frank.

"Link shut up. Just pretend for a moment, damn you."

He shrugged, "Honestly? I have no idea either. I mean, things seemed fine around the other knights back at the castle but—"

"Right, you're around Zelda too often to really know."

"Exactly. I think the only thing I've heard came from some of the newer knights exaggerating about how resilient you are. The classic, 'there's no way he's human, that's so awesome' kind of thing."

"Hm, I suppose that answers that for now." His fatigue was winning, "Well, we should sleep. There'll be lots of traveling to do tomorrow." He tossed off his shoes and shirt, throwing the covers over himself. 'Mind, stop trying to bring up what Hylia was talking about before. No. There's no way he'd appreciate any of that.'

Then, coincidentally, Link began to laugh, "Sorry, I can't help but think of how differently this is going compared to last night."

"Link, dear Goddesses please." 'Of course, he's bringing this up right as I think of it!'

"What? I'm just saying! You're way touchier than I expected."

How was he supposed to respond to that? "Okay? I mean, you didn't seem to mind…hell you practically egged me on!" He playfully shook his shoulder, "Don't make me do something I won't know how to apologize for, dammit!"

"That makes it seem as though you know what could happen," He snickered.

"Why are you smiling?! You realize I'm conscious during all of that, right? Of course I know what could happen!" 'I know too much now thanks to Hylia! I can't believe she would say stuff like that out loud!'

Link knew he could only push his buttons for so long, "Alright alright, I'll keep it in mind. I get that I'm partially to blame, kind of." He sat up for a moment, "In the meantime, since it's night, could you…make it rain? I've been trying to think of a good time, but y'know."

"Sure. One second." The Hero was pleased he was making good use of the offer he'd made back at the castle. He blinked over to the vanity, bringing the sacred instrument to his lips. Time purposefully caught his eye before playing the long version of the Song of Storms. Afterwards, he rejoined his descendant under the covers, "Just give it a moment."

A few seconds later, a loud peal of thunder erupted from above and right after came a steady fall of rain. Link had gone to the window to watch, "That's amazing! I think I remember you trying to play that song by the beach too and then again just yesterday."

"Yeeaah, I sure did. I stopped myself on the beach when I realized I could cause a windstorm or a massive wave—something dangerous. Otherwise, this song can do other things too. It sometimes uncovers secrets, but it always comes with rain."

The knight turned back, "Are there any others that work?"

Time considered his choice of words, "Yes…but I don't play them on purpose. This song is as far as I'll go in terms of the ones that do something." He smiled, "I'm glad you like it."

Link let out a wondrous sigh as he lied down, "Well now I'm dying to know what else you can do." He dismissed his own words, "Don't get me wrong, I understand why you're careful about that, but being selfish for a moment, I'd really like to see it someday."

"Ugh," He pulled the champion closer so he could rest his chin on his head. He spoke through his teeth, "Don't make my heart feel all warm n' shit, damn bastard. But, since you know how I am, all I'll say is we'll see. I'll keep it in mind."

"Good enough for me!"

Khoga impatiently tapped his finger on the arm of his chair, "Sooga."

He appeared beside him in a bow, rising as he spoke, "Yes, Master."

"How is my little thing— my thing—my plan. Yes, our plan." He looked at him, "How is it coming along?"

"There is good news and bad news."

His head recoiled, "How is there bad…? Just start with the good, you know the drill. Let me down gently!"

"Of course, Master." Sooga briefly clapped his hands, "Congratulations, our rumor has made it to the kingdom's tech lab. Our spies have done well and above all remain loyal."

His stubby legs kicked with joy, "Ooh! I love it! I love to hear it!" He sat up straight as a memory returned to him, "Oh right. What are these whispers among the members that we're all screwed? Just what are they talking about?"

Sooga's shoulders dropped as he sighed, "That is the bad news. The Princess, the champion, and the god are currently at the Great Plateau. The entire continent witnessed a blessing from the Goddess of Power fly from the Heavens, Master. From the intelligence I gathered it's to—"

"—that brat." Khoga groaned, rubbing the temples of his mask, "Hoo boy…nothing comes easy to us, does it? What else do you know? Why did he get one in the first place? Ugh, he's already a god! He doesn't need that!"

"The only thing we've been able to ascertain is that he doesn't appear to be able to control it. That could hint as to what his prayer was…but we can't know that for sure, unfortunately. I suppose I'm saying it doesn't appear to make him more of a threat to us."

"Phew, geez." He perked up, "Do we know where they're going next? Probably back to the castle."

"We don't, Master."

Khoga cocked his head to one side, "Hmph, fine. Tell our sneakiest ones to keep an eye on them and follow them to wherever they're going. I'll trust they know when the best time to strike is. It can't be petty either, Sooga. Something serious, well-coordinated. Could be described with big words like I did a second ago."

"What if they don't return to the castle?"

"Attack them anyways!" He crossed his arms, "This blessing bullshit pisses me off! I need some action and a banana!"

"Yes, Master."