His time in that other branch of history had opened his eyes. Link was once uncertain of his past post Gannon's abuse of the Triforce. The Sacred land was free and so was Hyrule. Initially he had considered going on a journey to train himself. However, he couldn't shake the feeling of those sad eyes that the princess possessed. He was now resolute in his path. His Zelda would never find the deeply haunted look that poor lady wore.
The castle looked festive as he approached the outer courtyard. The burn scars of the three ancient medallions still remained on his flesh. the raw skin throbbed as he examined his weapon less hands. As he promised, the Master Sword was returned to it's slumber. He was uncertain why the Mirror Shield was gone, but had faith the goddesses spirited it away for a reason. He proudly displayed his full height sixteen years of life had granted him. He was ready to face the king.
"Link hold up, don't leave your old uncle Clasp behind. Where have you been for the past few days?" The middle aged black haired man smiled openly. His bowl cut hairstyle looked freshly washed. He wore the most formal blue outfit in his wardrobe. He had decided to see the king today hoping he had insight into his nephew's wereabouts. Thankfully, it seemed unnecessary now.
Link bowed with respect to the one that taught him the way of Hylian knighthood. "Sorry Sir, I didn't know how long I was gone. Tell me Uncle what do you remember of the journey I've been on?" He should of thought of this before. Did anyone who had died even remember what he had done for Hyrule.
The older Hylian lowered his head in shame. "I'm sorry Link. I couldn't handle the mind controlled soldiers. When I gave you my weapons. I honestly thought it was my last act alive." He raised his head and continued speaking with a spark of hope. "However, a few days ago I awoke in my bed. To my deep embarrassment I found myself in the presence of Princess Zelda herself. I was weak, but all she did was smile at me. She soon told me of the perilous journey, you my boy had been on. When she was done with her tale. She presented me with my equipment that I had entrusted to you. The gear was in better condition than I had left it."
The young warrior released a breath he hadn't realized he was holding. "I'm glad to hear it Uncle. Don't worry, the guards were difficult to deal with for me at first as well. They were elitely trained to defend the kingdom after all." He gestured with an open hand towards the castle gate. "Come I have a few request for the king. One of which directly involves you so it's fitting you accompany me. We are the last true Hylian Royal Knights. At least for now anyway."
The hero that overcame the dark world smiled. The future looked brighter with each step towards the throneroom. As he approached the massive doors that lead inside his pointed ears twiched as a familiar voice echoed in his mind.
'Fear not my champion, your deeds are known and honored.' Zelda unconsciously adjusted her white gown as she retreated from her knights mind. She should not have done that. However, Link felt so unsure it caught her tempered extra awareness. She attempted to conceal her embarrassment from her father and the other gathered nobles. Chief among the seven other sages apart from herself. Unfortunately, Impa the one that represented shadow stood closest. The older white haired woman smiled knowingly at her. Sheika were quite perceptive and this one was first among her handmaidens.
Link wore his greenmail as he approached. Midway to the king he knelt to one knee and lowered his eyes. Clasp was a step behind him and followed his lead. Then he raised his eyes briefly lingering in the princesses gaze before moving on to the king.
The Lord of Hyrule stood to his towering height with a jolly expression. "I see the formalities are well known. However, you and your uncle may stand." As Link and Clasp reluctantly listened to their sovereign they both gasped. All the present high officials of the land except the king and princess bowed respectfully to the pair. As they rose the king lifted a massive two-handed sword with a jeweled golden hilt.
He beckoned them forward to the edge of the dais where his seat of office rested. "Kneel once more Link and Clasp. Today the faith you have kept to your lineage shall be known throughout the kingdom." He touched both men on each shoulder with his sword. Then rested it blade between his massive hands down on the carpet with a notable thump. "Arise Sir Link and Sir Clasp, Royal Knights of Hyrule."
The pair of warriors did so to the loud cheers and applause of everyone present. The joyful noise made them both smile. The sound stretched on for several minutes until the king finally silenced it. "Now Sir Link Champion of Hyrule what may I do to aid you further?"
The young man swallowed, then regained his composure. "Yes, my lord. I humbly ask to put my Uncle Clasp in charge of training a new order of Hylian Royal Knights."
The massive man laughed merrily at the simple request. "Easily done, I had planned to ask that very thing of you both."
The brunette fighter nodded his head in relief. "I have another task, that is not so simple to ask permission for. I wish to find the lost races and create a stronger kingdom from our alliances."
The king seated himself as he stroked his white beard. "You are correct, such a thing will likely take a long time. However, the way that dark wizard took advantage of our wavering strength can not be ignored." He gestured to a nearby man in formal armor.
He approached Link with his hands out. A sword and shield of blackish gray metal were there for him to take. While he did so the king smiled at the princely gift. "Those are the last of the ancient Royal Knight gear forged by the Goron's. Something about their make has allowed them to stand the test of time. I suggest you seek them first. I have heard beyond our northern boundaries there is a great volcano known as Death Peak. Near the end of the Imprisoning War legend says the Goron's migrated there."
He turned his head to a red haired girl a little younger than his daughter. "Sage Ruby, I believe you are best suited to accompany Sir Link in this noble endeavor."
She came foward and attempted an unpracticed curtsy to the king. "Yes sir, as the one that holds dominion of fire I agree." She stood with purpose and a mischievous grin as she looked at Link. "I will burn our enemies! Uh..., I mean negotiate on your behalf with our lost comrades."
A strange silence passed for a few seconds as she reigned in her excitement. Then the king cleared his throat. "Good, I think the two of you will work well together." He was about to dismiss the court when an unexpected voiced spoke behind him.
"Father please wait. As the Royal Princess I feel it is my duty to accompany them in this diplomatic endeavor." An ominous silence filled the chamber as her father glared angrily.
"Absolutely not daughter, you are too valuable for Hyrule's future!" The king struggled to control his outburst as he yelled.
The blonde noblewoman had expected this reaction. "I understand your concern. However, I am compelled to ask. Do you really have so little faith in Sir Link and Sage Ruby to protect me?"
"Of course I believe in them, but..." The King was distraught in the concept of losing his precious Zelda again.
Link felt the need to step in at this point. My lord, you have my word as a Hylian Royal Knight. No harm will befall the Princess in my care." To add weight he gave another formal bow.
The sovereign sighed heavily. "Sir Link I have told. All the support I have to give is yours. It is the least I can do for our national hero." He looked at his daughter with sadness resisting the urge to show further weakness in public. "Very well Zelda you have leave to go. I wish you all luck in your quest for us all."
With that Link, Zelda and Ruby set out to enthusiastic applause. The hopes of a better future going with them. So now a new adventure was beginning for a better Hyrule.