Zelda Fan Fic

8/8/2019 Zelda Fan Fic

http://slidepdf.com/reader/full/zelda-fan-fic 1/43

Zelda Fan FicBy Zack Hayes

Part One: Chapter One

Malon spread her hands out over her skirt with a soft sigh that sounded almost musical. Leaningher ankles against the small stool she sat on, she lifted her hand to stroke the velvety nose of Epona, who made a gentle, soft snorting sound and shook her head slightly. She began to hum asoft melody, beginning with three simple chords, but growing and evolving until the stillness of the morning seemed to be filled with the angelic voice of the young maiden. She opened her eyesto the brightness of the newfound sun, and saw shadows flickering across the dirt ground at herfeet.

She stood and continued to hum, (loudly, though she didn't realize it) the gentle melody soothingto her horse. Epona whinnied gratefully as Malon began brushing her soft, reddish brown coat.

"Hmm-hmm-hmm…Hmm-hmm-hmm…"

The flawless notes were hummed as Malon stroked her horse. Suddenly her voice died out- thesong caught in her throat, as it was sung back to her:

"Hmm-hmm-hmm…Hmm-hmm-hmm…"

Only it was not hummed, nor sung (for the song was wordless) but it was echoed back, seemingly from far in the distance, by a sharp and sweet whistling noise, like that of a flute.

Epona's ears pricked back instantly, and she gave a snort, neighing loudly. Malon's deep, golden brown eyes lit up, and slowly a smile spread across her face as the tune continued to be played,growing closer. In her own mind, the fullness of the song overwhelmed the break of day, andsomething lit up in the back of her mind.

She jerked around quickly, sending the small stool toppling to the ground. She raced to the ironfence that surrounded the horse pasture, clutching the thin bars tightly as she saw, through theopen window, her father was up and stirring inside the house.

"Papa…" she said, softly at first, as almost to herself. Her voice then grew louder, a grin brokeacross her face, and she laughed.

"Papa! Papa- he's back!!"

~~~

Malon raced across the dirt ground of the Ranch, her black shoes becoming dusty, and nearly tripping over her long skirt and apron. She could see beyond the tall iron gate that surround theentire Ranch, that there was a young man of, no more than sixteen or seventeen, walking towardsher, holding a small oval instrument to his lips, playing the song that her mother had taught heras just a small child. His shaggy blonde hair strayed out from his bright green hat, which matchedhis clothing. His blue eyes sparkled in the sun, and as she flung open the gate he ceased to play,shoving the Ocarina inside his belt and grinning broadly.

"Link!" she cried loudly, laughing, and raced into his arms.



Link laughed with pleasure and excitement as Malon, all smiles, dove into his open arms for ahug. He wrapped his arms around her waist, picking her up and twirling her around, and heardher laugh with delight. He set her down after a moment, seeing how her honey brown eyessparkled as she looked into his face.

Malon reached up and cupped Link's thin face, kissing his temple near his ear. "Oh Link!" shecried in astonishment, looking him over. "You've gotten so…big!" She remembered, what seemednot so long ago, when she had first laid eyes on him. A small, skinny boy with a shy smile and eyestoo big for his head. Now his smile was a thin, teasing line, and his blue eyes were perfectly setinto his face. He was very tall now too, far taller than she was. He jerked his head playfully,sending his green cap flying to the ground and grinning at her.

"Sorry…hat hair," he chuckled, taking her small hand in his. Malon was different from when hehad last seen her. They had been merely children. Now she had become quite beautiful. Shelaughed lightly, then gasped quietly as they heard a horse whinny, biting her lip and jerking herheard toward the open gate.

"Oh Link, do- she missed you something terrible."

Link smiled and drew out his Ocarina again, softly playing the notes once through. Before hereached the end of the song, he caught sight of a beautiful, dark auburn colored horse racing atthem, its pale mane flying back behind it.

"My Epona!" he cried, welcoming her into his arms. The horse neighed loudly and happily, andnuzzled Link's face, all in a flutter, as he laughed and stroked her neck, kissing her softly on herforehead. "My, my, my…" he murmured, smiling and running his fingers through her long, white

blonde mane. "You've grown a lot, my pretty girl."

Malon looked fondly at her friend and her horse. Epona had always adored Link, and Link hadalways loved the creature. They fit together so perfectly, and added to that Link was an excellentrider. She smiled as Link turned back to her, grinning lopsidedly. "Sorry I sent no word…do I havea room and board for tonight at least, my lady?" he asked, his blue eyes sparkling.

She grinned sarcastically, picking his hat up from the ground and smushing it back onto his hair yellow hair. She took his hand, taking hold of Epona's reigns with the other hand. "Come on, Fairy Boy," she said, laughing. "I'll see what I can do."

Part One: Chapter Two

"Talon, you old scoundrel!" cried Link, tossing his pack to the wooden floor of the house, uponseeing a middle-aged balding man leaning over a stove with thick oven mitts on.

Talon raised his head instantly and looked behind him. Malon, his daughter, stood near the door,her face lit up in a smile, and holding her hand was a tall blonde boy, dressed in Kokiri green, witha familiar air about him. The man scratched on what was left of his hair.

"Why…Link! If it ain't Link. Ho my, Malon, it can't be!" he cried, turning to his daughter.

Malon laughed. "It is, Papa; he's come back to us."

Link stepped forward to give Talon a manly embrace, and Talon patted the boy firmly on the back.The older man chuckled. "It's been quite a while, my boy. You've grown up quite a bit." He lookedsideways at Malon, then leaned in for a confidant whisper to Link. "You know, my old offer stillstands…she's grown up too…" Link laughed brightly, his eyes twinkling, and he punched Talon'sshoulder softly. Malon just eyed them strangely, which caused Talon to chuckle as well.



"Well, anyhow, you best get on up to your room, my boy," he continued. "Put your things away,then I'll let you two kids have some fun. I'm sure you have catching up to do."

"Have you eaten yet, Link?" asked Malon, eyeing the bacon the was slowly being burnt on theunattended stove.

Link nodded his head yes. "I have. Although, before I leave I'll have to make sure to visit Bessagain. My milk's running low."

Malon chuckled, finding it humorous how much Link loved the milk from their old cow. Heclaimed it always made him feel stronger and refreshed, especially after a battle, or a long andtiring day.

"But…you're not leaving soon, right? I mean, you only just got here!" she protested.

Link smiled at her, grabbing her hand and yanking her toward the door. "Well, we shall have tosee, missy. But for now, we had better get a head start on my new tour of Lon-Lon Ranch! It's

been quite a while!"

~~~

Link felt free as a bird as he galloped on Epona across the sun-drenched plains of Hyrule. They had long before left behind the tall iron fence of the Ranch, and now, with Malon seated behindhim and her hands snugly around his waist, he smiled blissfully as the wind blew into his face. Helet Epona take them where she would, and he looked back into Malon's face. She smiled sweetly athim, leaning her head against his shoulder. She had truly become a beautiful young woman, herface rosy with the roughness of the wind, her smile bright with excitement, and her long brownhair flying behind her.

Soon enough Epona grew tired of running across the endless plains, and stopped. She let themoff, then trotted to a nearby isolated tree and put her head down for a rest.

Malon looked around, only barely able to see Lon-Lon Ranch in the distance. She furrowed hereyebrows a little and leaned against Link, who stood straight and tall gazing into the horizon. "Weare pretty far from home, and it's getting kind of late…Link? Link…what are you looking at?" sheasked.

Link smiled slowly, looking very mischievous as he often had as a youngster. He looked at her,smiling. "Malon," he said, taking her hands. "Are you up for a run?"

She looked at him curiously. "Um…sure, I suppose. But why-" she didn't have time to finish. Stillholding onto one of her hands, he took off like a streak of lightning. They ran, leaving behindEpona to sleep, in the opposite direction of the Ranch. Malon noticed that they were running inthe direction of the rocky, jagged hills in the distance- the opposite of where Hyrule Castletownlay in relative distance to the farm. They ran for a while, just laughing, and loving the freshafternoon air. Malon's legs were long, and strong from years of tough farm work, and she didn'tgrow weary easily. Link had been out and about his whole life, riding, running, fighting, and every other thing imaginable. He could run for miles on end.

Eventually they stopped, near where the plains jutted up against the reddish rock, and Malon bentover, finding she was out of breath. After a few moments of regaining their breath, Link took herhand again and they walked for a while, following along the rock wall. Soon they came to a place

where the rocks ended- and there was a large gap in the rock wall. Instead there was a tall ironfence, with a pillar of stone on one side just as high that was built right against the rock wall.



Malon could see that behind the tall fence were several other fences of iron, and beyond that therocky cliffs turned, and she couldn't see what was behind the bend. To Malon it seemed quiteclear that the many fences squeezed in between the gap in the wall proclaimed a loud KEEP OUT.

Link didn't try to scale the fence, however. He walked instead to the stone pillar, which wasnearly completely overgrown with thick, tough vines. He then grabbed a hold of them and beganto climb, looking down at Malon.

"Follow me," he said.

"Link!" she cried, her eyes widening. "You can't just do that!"

Link chuckled, pulling her up behind him. "I can."

They climbed until they reached a stone ledge. It was no more than twenty or so feet off theground, and it followed the side of the gap in the cliff. It was at least a yard wide, so they walkedon it until they had passed the iron fences, then Link pointed out to what was beyond the cavity inthe cliffs. A enormous lake, the sun sparkling on the crystal water.

"Lake Hylia," he said, smiling.

Malon shook her head, smiling. "I should've known you knew this place."

Link laughed and began to climb more vines down the wall. "I know every inch of Hyrule, littlemiss, you should know that by now." She laughed, following him.

~~~

Malon gave a scream and jumped into the lake. It was a few moments before she hit the water,and when she did she seemed to plunge deeper and deeper. Opening her eyes, she found that the

water was perfectly crystal clear, she could see even to the other side of the lake. She saw Link swim toward her and grab her wrist, pulling her to the surface. She popped her head above the

water, smiling as she saw Link's blonde hair plastered wet to his head.

He backstroked away from her a little, smiling up into the sky. His once pale childhood skin hadtaken on a tan color from being out and about so much. She kicked in the water hard, struggling,though she was a good swimmer. She had left her shoes and dress on the shore along with Link's

belt, boots, and shirt, but still, swimming in a petticoat under-dress was rather difficult. Link smiled sweetly at her, slicing through the water like a fish until he reached her. He scooped her upin his arms, keeping them afloat with his strong legs.

She smiled into his face, winding her arms about his neck. "I'm not too heavy for you?" she asked.

He returned her smile. "Of course not," he replied softly.

~~~

Malon sat, unmoving, on the shore of the lake, the slowly setting sun reflecting golden on itsrippling waters. It was near dusk. She was half in Link's lap, his arms around her, as they waitedfor the cooling air to dry them. She gave a contented sigh as they watched the sun set. They hadn'tspoken for the longest time, but she was eager to know of her friend's travels since they had lastseen each other.

"How long had it been since you came to Lon-Lon, Link?" she asked suddenly, breaking the



silence.

He pondered silently for a while. "Must've been…oh…three years? Yeah, because I remember we were both fourteen."

She smiled. "You were so little as a child."

"So were you…of course, you've always been rather lovely," he said teasingly.

"Oh hush," she said, swatting playfully at his face. She sighed again, nestling deeper into his arms."But I did miss you very much. So did Epona."

"I missed you all, too..." He paused for a moment. "Even the cuckoos." Malon laughed, but thenLink sobered a little. "There were times that was all I had to think about." He grinned. "Of course,there were other times…"

"Like what?" she asked excitedly. She loved when Link told her of his adventures.

He set her from his lap, moving to face her. "Like when I lived with the Gorons. Or the Zoras.That's how I found this place, you know."

"The Zoras?" she asked. "Aren't they like fish people?"

"Well…a little. They live in underwater tunnels and caves, and are built like people, only like beautiful sea creatures as well. They are excellent swimmers." He smiled, his eyes twinkling."Their Princess Ruto wanted me to marry her."

Malon gasped. "Oh my!"

Link laughed, leaning back on one elbow. "Don't worry, I refused her. I was just a child at thetime."

"And would you refuse her now?" Malon asked.

His eyes twinkled sarcastically. "Certainly." He paused. "I'd never marry a fish."

Malon laughed, and Link laughed with her. She leaned backwards onto the soft, fresh grass. Helay down beside her, both of them content to simply stare up into the darkening sky. Maloninched closer to him, and he put his arm around her. Closing her eyes, she thought of how muchshe cared for Link, and how dear he was to her. She had known him since they were both youngchildren, and every time he visited they seemed to grow closer.

Link looked over at the young woman in his arms, and smiled faintly. He felt something strong forMalon, something that was refreshing after years of wandering, and battles, and journeys. Whenhe saw her it was almost as though he was home. He sat up, and she with him, and he saw how she stared into his eyes. He put his hand on her face tenderly, smiling. He leaned toward her face,and felt her body tense a little. He then realized with a start that he had been about to kiss her.

Moving back, he smiled a little nervously at her. She smiled too, looking something akin toamused and confused. He stood swiftly, picking his shirt off the ground and pulling it on. Heneeded to ride again. He was a little confused himself. He liked Malon…but somehow he didn'tseem ready yet. For what, he wasn't sure, but he didn't feel ready.

Part One: Chapter Three

Link was enjoying a peacefulness that he rarely experienced, but all too soon it was shattered.



Link! Link! Focus!

He looked up and saw the Wise Old Owl, Kaepora Gaebora, sitting on a tree branch above him. Hesighed in annoyance, but also his stomach tightened with nervousness. It had been a while sincehe had been visited by the creature.

Link, all is not well in Hyrule. He has returned.

No…. No! Link's head spun, and he felt sick. He couldn't face it. It couldn't be true. Link had givenhis life in service to rid the land of Him, and now He was back. He always found a way to come

back!

Link, listen to the word of your childhood. Memory it is not, but summons. Think back.

What on earth did that mean?

You shall know where you must go. And you shall know why. Very soon. But He is back, and I must warn you. I cannot do anything more. Farewell, young Link…

Then all turned to darkness. Link heard a menacing laugh that sent shivers up and down hisspine. The laugh was deep and guttural, and as evil as the darkness. The clouds began to swirl,and Link could see His face in the dark midnight sky. His eyes shone with a fire, to match the fiery red of His hair.

You shall never prevail against me, boy…!

Link awoke with a start, perspiration dripping down his face. It took him a moment to adjust tothe eerily still and silent room. He sighed deeply, raking his hands back through his shaggy

blonde hair. The sigh turned into a half sob, and he shuddered, burying his face in the blanket. A dream. That was all. But somehow he thought not. Kaepora Gaebora had said that memories fromhis childhood would be a summons, a warning. But from Him? What did it mean?

His head hurt as he drifted back to sleep. But not back to peace.

Colors swirled around him, and his mind drifted back to the Kokiri Forest where he was raised.He saw the sweet smiling face of Saria, the Kokiri child who had always looked after him, who had

been his best friend…who gave him his Ocarina. Then he saw the Great Deku Tree. But the DekuTree was dead… Still, it did not matter. He could hear the music and laughter of his childhood.The little Forest Children playing, guardian fairies flying about their children. Then the Deku Treespoke.

Thou knows why I come to thee, Link.

He did.

I am always with thee in Spirit, for my soul has not perished, only my physical being. Thou hast been warned of His return. Do not fear. Thou knows Him. He knows thee. He looks upon thee asa worthy adversary.

Link felt fear coil inside his stomach. So it was true. The monster and terror of Hyrule had awokenfrom His prison slumber. But how?

He is a master of magic and evil, Link, thou knows this. How He escaped His long-time prison, I know not. But now He has returned, and only thou knows to stop Him.

Link's fear took hold of him, and he wanted to cry out 'NO!' He was just a boy, wasn't he? Hadn't



he been the protector of Hyrule for enough of his life? When would it all stop…?

His mind turns now to evil, power-hungry thoughts. He has taken the Lady Zelda as Hiscaptive.

Zelda, the Princess of Hyrule. Link had met her father, but never the Princess. It was rumoredthat she was well versed in lore and magic.

I am going now, Link. I cannot help you any further. Go to my Children, the Children of whichthou once belonged.

The Kokiri. But what reason would he have to go there?

Link- all the land is still filled with peace. The great arising evil has not yet spread beyond itself. But soon a great terror shall wash over Hyrule that has never yet been seen by mere mortalsbefore. His great armies are massing.

But how would going to the Kokiri Forest help him? What did he have to do? Where did he haveto go from there?

My Children shall help thee, Link. They are ageless and wise, though innocent. Thou shalt betold what to do there, for my very essence lives amongst them. Go, Link! Thou cannot wastetime!

He drifted off into slumber again, in an odd wash of rest he had not expected. He woke with thedawn, and his mouth was set in a determined line as he rose and dressed. He sighed deeply,regretting that he would have to forsake Lon-Lon Ranch so soon. The still and peaceful air of thecountry farm was helping to quiet his spirit, but his journey was not over yet.

Nay, it hadn't even begun.

"But...but Link, I...I don't understand! You just got here yesterday! Surely you don't have to leaveso soon!" Malon's face was distressed, even near tearful. She was worried for him; he could see it

in her face, and in the way her hands were clutched around his.

He shook his head, checking inside his pack to make sure everything was there: rupees, flint, hisslingshot and plenty of seeds, a glass bottle filled with fresh milk, few small water canteens, a

small bag of various food items, his extra blue tunic, and his gauntlets. He promptly tied the bagshut, slung it on his back, strapped his quiver to his shirt, and put his bow over his shoulder. He

was afraid to look at Malon, knowing how much he'd miss her.

He hooked on his belt, which held his Ocarina and his sword with the green emerald on its hilt.

"Link," said Malon, trying to make eye contact with him. "Link! Are you even listening to me?"Her eyes watered as she saw his eyes scanning the room. She held out his shield, which bore thecrest of a red bird, its wings outstretched, and a small symbol of the Triforce above it. "Looking

for this?" she asked softly.

Link looked at Malon sadly and took the shield, setting it on the floor of the house. He took her inhis arms and held her there for a long time. She looked up at him and sighed, brushing a stray

golden hair back under his cap. "Come on, Fairy Boy," she said with a smile.

~~~

"Oh...Malon...I can't!" he said fervently, as she handed him the reigns to Epona. Her eyes were



sad, but she seemed dogged.

"Yes, you can, Link. She loves you, and you've a need of her. She's a good girl...she'll help you."

He smiled gratefully and tapped Epona out the open door of the barn. He put his arm aroundMalon's shoulders and they both walked silently to the iron gate of the Ranch. Malon opened it

without a word, and they stood beside Epona, who was whinnying in impatience.

Link took her hands, looking into her sad, golden-brown eyes. "I know what I have to do...and Iknow you're angry now, but...later you'll thank me."

She smiled slightly. "You have a knack for saving Hyrule, Link."

He chuckled, rubbing her fingers with his. "It might be a long, long time before I see you again..."

She put her hand on his face. "You know if you ever need help that I'm here for you."

He nodded. "I know..." He was at a loss for words, and his heart was heavy. He cared deeply forthis girl, and didn't know if he'd ever see her again. He would never admit the possibility to

Malon...but he could see she knew already. He covered her hand with his, and smiled gently at

her. "This is for...just in case...I can't come back," he whispered, his voice nearly breaking. He bent forward and pressed a tender kiss on her cheek, near the corner of her mouth.

Taking his eyes from her he pulled away quickly and leapt upon the horse, looking only to theEast, where the forest lay, but smiling anyway as he heard Malon faintly humming their special

song.

"Hmm-hmm-hmm...Hmm-hmm-hmm..."

Part Two: Chapter One

Link knew the paths of the Forest by heart, he had walked them many a time, long years ago. Thetrees and vines were slightly overgrown, but other than that everything was pretty much the same.Even down to the atmospheric quality the woods held. No real evil could dwell in the magical land

of the Kokiris.

~~~

A small girl, who, had she been in Hyrule, could never have passed for more than ten years of age, sat silently on a high, thick branch of a big tree. The cool bark felt good against her legs as the

summer sun came down and warmed the village.

She had bright green hair that fell like leaves across her forehead, and sparkling green eyes tomatch. And, like all other children of the village, her attire was a short green tunic and tall, brownleather boots. She was just the same as any other child in the forest...and yet in some ways much,

much different.

One such case was obviously the pair of fairies who hovered and chatted (rather noisily) justabove her head. She rolled her eyes and smiled, half wishing that she still only had the one fairy

she was gifted with at her beginning. A child below her shouted her name and waved. She smiledand waved back. The child pointed to the tunnel at the edge of the village which led into a

thinning part of the woods- and eventually into Hyrule Fields. It was forbidden for any Kokiri to



pass beyond that tunnel. It would surely mean their death.

Never before had she seen a normal adult person before, and to see one so calmly walking intotheir village, dressed in the attire of her own people, sent goose bumps down her arms and lit a

spark of protectiveness and curiosity inside her.

She could hear the children tittering and whispering amongst themselves.

Small boys with pouty lower lips drew their small blades but dared not attack at seeing the longsword that hung at the stranger's hip.

Ignoring the frantic, excited pleas and nudges of the two fairies, She calmly hopped down fromthe tree and straightened her tunic, dignity etching her youthful face. The young man seemed to

see her right away, and it was not long before he stood before her, at least six feet tall andhandsome.

She looked first at his garb. Kokiri garb...but how could it be? Down to his boots he looked like agrown Child of the Forest. Her eyes widened a bit as she saw the hilt of the sword that hung from

his belt. It looked very much like one she had seen before...

But it was when she looked up at his thin, manly face that the real surprise came. His eyes were big and blue, and his mouth was thin and smiling warmly at her. His expression was so, sofamiliar, she almost couldn't bear it.

Surely it cannot be!

He laughed a laugh with a voice she vaguely knew, and his eyes twinkled. "I see you've taken goodcare of my bothersome little friend." For an instant she was utterly baffled, but then she heardNavi, the fairy, giggle above her. All confusion melted away instantly and she laughed with joy,

clasping her hands together. He smiled at her as though he couldn't have been happier. "It's goodto see you too, Saria."

Saria squealed and jumped to give him a hug. She was shocked to find he had to bend down onone knee to reach eye level with her. She put her hand on his shoulder, gazing fondly at him with a

look of wisdom far beyond her appearance.

"Last time I saw you, Link, you were a scrawny, pale, shy child who wasn't even as tall as I was. Nodoubt now that you aren't one of us!"

Link smiled, a little sadly. He remembered how upset he had been to learn that he was anoutsider, and not of the Kokiri race.

Saria saw into his thoughts and took his hand, her small one disappearing into his. "And praisethe goddesses for it, Link. You've become the Savior of our dear lands." She closed her eyes again,smiling like the small child she looked. "But I'm so glad to see you again!" she cried, jumping up

and down.

Link smiled as the pale glowing sphere landed gently on his shoulder, fluttering its tiny white wings and saying something in a high pitched voice.

"I'm sure she did, my friend. And yes, I'm glad to see you!"

Saria giggled. "As much as Navi talks, Link, you'd think she talk of something but you all these years."

Link gave a chuckle. "I'm indebted to you for keeping an eye on her for me, Saria."



Saria rolled her eyes good-naturedly. "More like two." Navi flew in annoyance around her head, but Saria laughed and swatted her away. Link's expression slowly lost its jovial air as he

remembered why he had come in the first place. Saria seemed nearly as troubled as he was, andshe laid her hand on his arm. "The Deku Tree said something was to come, Link. But I had no idea

he meant you. I knew something was troubling him."

Link frowned. The Deku Tree, who had been like a father of sorts to the Kokiri, had died when he was only a child. It was on his tongue to ask what she meant, but he shook his head. If the greatdeceased Spirit could appear to Link, a mere Hylian boy, why could he not do so -and more- to

those of his own essence, his own Spirit Children?

Link hung his head, nevertheless, hoping he could still find a comforting and mentoring spirit inSaria as he once had. "Ganon has returned," he said simply, and as the first time he had spoken

the accursed name aloud since the madman's imprisonment, it seemed as though he himself only just realized it. He truly has returned.

Saria's eyes widened for an instant, but then her expression changed swiftly from shocked togrieved. "I feared in my heart something of the sort would happen; I've felt it even since you

defeated him the last time." Link raised his head in confusion and slight offense. Had she no faithin him? Saria understood instantly. "No, no Link, don't dare to look at me like that. I'm your

friend, not your judge." She paused slightly, her eyes welling with tears. She looked away. "It's justsomething that the Deku Tree said to me, long ago..." She sighed and closed her eyes, as thoughthe words had been burned into her memory.

"This Evil can only be defeated by something as pure, and as strong, and as good as it is Evil. TheMaster Blade of Legend, locked away beyond knowledge, is the only thing that can truly repel

Ganondorf's great, Evil spirit."

Link felt his heart sink. He had hoped that his mission would merely be to rescue the PrincessZelda from the clutches of villains and restore Ganon to his prison. But now his heart, and histrusted, beloved friend, told him differently. It was up to him...it could be delayed no longer.

Saria, her eyes wet, took his hands solemnly and looked straight into his eyes. Her voice was alittle unsteady.

"My Link...my dearest Link. You must go to the very heart of Darkness and Evil. Only you have ahope or prayer of defeating it. If not, you shall fall into Darkness, or perish in the attempt to

destroy it." The village seemed to hush. "And the fate of all living things in this good earth may depend upon your success or failure."

Part Two: Chapter Two

Link, holding Saria's hand, was led by her, silently, to a different tunnel than the one he had comethrough upon entering the village. This was the one that led to the Sacred Forest Meadow, whereSaria had been commanded by the Great Deku Tree to look after, as a Sage of sorts. She was theheart and foundation of the Kokiri, with all her wisdom and courage...who better?

Link smiled in amusement at what they saw in front of the tunnel, even though his heart was soheavily burdened down. A small boy in ragged clothes, crossed arms, wild strawberry-blonde hair,and a sour expression, stood before them, his little feet firmly planted in front of the tunnel.

"Saria, who is this mutt that you would dare let him come here?" he spat.

Saria sighed in annoyance, rolling her eyes. "First of all, Mido, I wasn't there to stop him fromentering the village. Secondly, I'm the Sage of the Forest, I think I can do what I please." Shepaused for effect. "And thirdly, I should think you of all people would recognize him," she said,

jerking her head toward Link. Mido had always had a certain fondness for tormenting and teasing



Link.

Link remembered that, as the small boy he was, he feared and looked upon Mido as a big boy of great strength and a powerful bully, always looking out for himself and treating those around himlike he was their better. Some things never change.

After allowing Mido a good look at Link, and seeing his expression slowly change from disgust to wonder, Saria continued on leading them to where they needed to go. Link wondered if Midoreally recognized him...

~~~

The Sacred Meadow lay deep in the heart of the woods, so far away it seemed to Link as thoughthey had entered another world. Saria looked up at him with a cursory smile.

"It is peaceful, isn't it?" she asked quietly. So peaceful Link almost wished he didn't have to leave.Ever. Saria laughed at his tell-tale expression. "Sometimes I wish I could just hide away in hereforever. But...now that the Deku Tree is gone, I have to look after the Children even more than

before. They can be awful troublesome." She smiled, knowing that Link understood. He had beenraised as one of them.

Link drank in the silence for a long time as Saria sat unmoving on a stone pedestal, her head bowed in prayer. His ears had not heard such silence for a long time. All he could hear was thegentle rustle of the wind against the leaves. The sing-song of a bird. The silent music of the sunpassing through the sky.

Saria's heart ached as she bowed reverently, wishing, wishing, hoping beyond hope that she coulddo some small part to help Link.

Oh Deku Tree, how I miss you!

She rocked back and forth gently, tears slipped from her squeezed shut eyes.

You never lacked wisdom, Oh Father. You had a heart for your Children above all else. Do youstill watch over Link as you used to? Please, please...we need help...

She remembered the sacred power of the Legend behind the Triforce. Each of the Goddesses had watched over the Kokiri children and their adoptive brother, Link, for as long as she remembered.They protected him on his long journeys.

Oh Din, great goddess, watch over Link as he goes into the mouth of all evil. Give him your power, your strength, your might...Let him never be afraid as he faces his trials...

Dear Farore, who lacks no courage and knows no fear. Be with Link when he feels his heart will fail him. Give him the courage and heart to go on, so that his footsteps never falter beneathhim...

Wise Nayru, whose wisdom and knowledge have created the order of all we see and love and know. Give Link the wisdom to know what do to. Let him always understand which paths totake, and which to shun. Always be his constant companion...I beseech you...

Oh mighty goddesses...I give you this prayer as a last hope...do not let this world crumble...

Please...



Part Three: Chapter One

The land of the Gerudo people was, in legend, an evil place, filled with dust, smoke, hate, and bandits. Gerudo Valley had long since become discarded as an area of living. The Gerudo peoplehad fled past the mountains of Hyrule to dwell in their tower, or had taken on a more civilizedlifestyle in other parts of the Country, after Ganon their leader had been defeated. The dust andash and forsaken desert caves were all that remained…save the lingering evil that hid in the eyesof the servants of Darkness.

~~~

Link was tired. He felt that if he moved another inch he would collapse from heat exhaustion.Gerudo Valley was a dark and dangerous place. It was in the heart of the Desert Land, whereGanon himself had once dwelt. Perhaps he dwelled there again… Dirt and sweat mixed clung toLink as he rested behind a large boulder in a more shaded part of the valley. He could hear thingsin the distance that sent shivers down his spine.

Men yelling orders, barking commands, in a harsh tongue he did not know. Shouts fromenormous groups of men, far off in the distance, behind the mountains…perhaps even as far northas the Gerudo fortress. The massing armies of Ganon.

Sand stung his eyes as a hot wind swept through. He could hear marching, too. Running.Footsteps thumping on the ground, relentlessly. Groups of soldiers were gathering from the southand from the east…all passing through the Gerudo Valley. He now shuddered behind the rock,hoping to evade the incoming troop of villains he heard. They were not far off.

He had witnessed many such legions pass by him, some camping the night at the very spot wherehe rested. He had to be careful to stay completely out of sight…bright forest green didn't blend in

well with rock and sand. But with every group that stayed long enough for him to eavesdrop on,the same nervous and fearful gossip spread through the soldiers. Zelda was missing. It had beenannounced and thought that the traveling armies of Ganon had raided the Hyrule Palace andcaptured the young princess. But now she was gone…and only her bodyguard remained in their

villainous clutches.

Link breathed easier at night hearing that. He hoped the Princess was all right…he would try hishardest to rescue the bodyguard, perhaps he or she would know the whereabouts of the girl.

Link stayed hidden behind his boulder for at least an hour, the stomping feet of the small army getting closer by the second. They stopped to rest at nightfall within a stone's throw of his spot.They lit a fire and began to grumble amongst themselves. There were no moblins in this group,only men. Big, strongly built men with scratchy voices and veils and helmets covering their headsand faces. They came from the south…but Link quickly dismissed the possibility of them beingGerudians themselves. A male child was only born to the Gerudo people once every one-hundred

years, and that reigning Male was Ganon himself. He didn't recognize the garb or tongue of thesemen, so he assumed they came either from the farthest reaches of Hyrule, or perhaps even one of the many lands beyond Hyrule's borders.

Link, though so weary from his travels, strained to listen to every word that was said. A few hoursafter darkness fell, one tall man who seemed to lead them called for the prisoner to be brought tohim. Link scurried into a nearby bush to watch more closely. Apparently this was the camp whereZelda had escaped from, and this prisoner was her bodyguard.

Link couldn't tell the gender of the bodyguard as it was thrown onto the dust before the captain. It was wearing a close fitting cloth bodysuit of deep blue, and wore a white cloth wrapped around its



neck and head, leaving only the eyes and a shock of blonde hair visible. It was built tough, strong, with some thin armor on its chest and calves, and also bore a red mark of some sort on the whitecloth across its chest. The symbol of the Sheikah tribe…a tribe of warriors.

The person was kicked and jeered by several of the men, until they were silenced by the raisedhand of the captain. He looked at his prisoner, saying something that sounded like a taunt. Link couldn't make it out.

The prisoner spoke back in a raspy, thickly accented voice. A voice of a woman, Link wassurprised to hear. Still, it did not surprise him too greatly. Nearly all of the remaining Sheikah

were female, and all were trained fighters and warriors from birth. Her eyes were red, as Link could see, and glowed with a fierce anger as she spit in the dust.

The commander said something in a low voice, jerking her up and giving her a sound blow to theside of the head. She gave a soft cry, but nothing more as he threw her to the dirt and commandedto his men for her to be tied up again.

Link watched in growing anger as the men tied the woman's wrists and ankles, then dumped her behind the tents, a few yards away from where all sat around the campfire. Taking a deep breathand closing his eyes for an instant, Link sank low to the ground and scurried over to where she

was, staying out of the flickering light of the fire. He gritted his teeth, ignoring the hoarse laughtercoming from the soldiers.

As he reached the woman, he could see blood was coming from her temple where she had beenstruck, showing through the thick white cloth wrapped about her head in Sheikah fashion. All hecould see were her eyes, and they were barely open, but staring at him.

"Help me…" she rasped.

He silently unsheathed his blade and slit her bonds, taking her by the arm and gently dragging her back to his hiding spot. He was surprised how light she was. Once safely behind the boulder, heleaned the woman against it and she breathed a deep sigh of relief. Link put a finger to his lips,cautioning her to not speak. Making sure once again that no one was looking their way, orchecking on the prisoner, Link scooped her up in his arms and began to run.

His soft leather boots were soundless against the sand, and his panting was lost amid the howlingof the desert wind. Once they were a good distance away from the camp, Link set her down anddrew out his Ocarina. He blew three loud, clear notes on it twice. After a few minutes of silent

waiting, Epona came running from behind a bend in the road. He was glad to see her!

He gently lifted the now sleeping woman to the horse, climbing on behind her to keep her fromfalling. They rode for as long as Link could without falling asleep himself, although he knew they

wouldn't leave behind the Gerudo Valley for at least a few more days. He found a small, dark caveand rode into it, checking first to make sure it was empty. Striking flint against a stone, he lit asmall fire and laid the woman beside it, dabbing her wound lightly with her covering, though hedidn't remove it. The Sheikah were a strict and religious people, and he wouldn't want to offend oranger the woman in any way. He finally laid down to rest himself, sighing deeply as he fell into adark and dreamless slumber.

Part Three: Chapter Two

Link sat silently in the temporary coolness of morning. Just around dawn was the only time it wascomfortably cool in the Gerudo Valley. In a few hours it would be sweltering again… He sat withhis arms wrapped around his knees, breathing softly, and trying not to move so he wouldn't wakethe woman. She still slept, though fitfully, he observed.



After a few minutes he heard her give a noise something like a sigh and a groan as she stirred. Shepropped herself up slowly on her elbows, looking around the cave as she adjusted to the darknessof it. When she saw Link she started a bit, but didn't blink. She just stared at him with her redeyes.

"Who are you?" she asked, her voice husky and foreign, and slightly muffled through the cloth.She paused for a moment, closing her eyes. "Did you save my life?"

Link threw a stick on the fire, seeing that she was probably younger than she had first appeared to be. "You are safe, now. Though neither of us may be safe soon." She didn't seem satisfied. "But, yes, I rescued you from those men, if that's what you meant."

She let out a sigh, falling onto her back again and covering her face with her hands, muttering in alanguage he didn't understand. She sat up again almost instantly, scooting closer to him andcovering his hand with hers. Her red eyes stared straight into his. "May the goddesses be praised.I am Sheik."

Link nodded. "I am Link."

She drew back, gasping, and looking him over. "I know of you. I have heard great tales of your

many glorious battles and victories."

Link laughed, shaking his head. "Whatever they say, it's over-told. I'm just a boy from Hyrule whohappened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time." He spread his palms out face up, smiling alittle. "I practiced hard with a sword, and know many techniques of battle."

He could tell she smiled through her veils. "I am also instructed in the ways of war." She eyed theOcarina at his belt. "You play. I am not familiar with that instrument, but I play also."

"What do you play?" he asked.

"The lyre," she softly. Her fingers strummed the air gently, as though she played an invisible harp.She had small, pale fingers, Link saw.

He took her hand, looking into her eyes once again. "Where did Zelda go? Did she tell you? I wassent to rescue her."

She nodded absently. "Yes, yes, of course. I should have known." She paused. "She is free now, notin the clutches of the enemy. That is all we can wish for, now."

"But I want to know where she is, Sheik. It's my job!" he said earnestly.

She looked at him strangely. "The Princess does know how to take care of herself…" Sheik sighed,looking away from Link. Standing, she looked back to him. She seemed to be eyeing him carefully,looking him over. He felt as though she were looking into his very heart and soul. "You are friends

with the King?"

He nodded. "I have met him on several occasions."

"He trusts you?" Link nodded yes. She nodded her head absently. "Then I shall trust you," she whispered, almost as if to herself. She bent down to look over to fire, the light of the glowingflames flickering across her face, making her eyes seem even more red…

Sheik held her hands over the fire, closing her eyes. Her hands were cupped, and Link felt goose bumps run across his flesh as a small flame rose from the fire and floated in between her hands.She stood again, staring and concentrating on the flame. She uttered a few words in a strangetongue and threw the fire to the ground forcefully.



A flash of bright light filled the cave, and Link covered his eyes with his hand. As soon as it came,it was gone, and he looked back to Sheik.

Instead of the Sheikah warrior woman, Link saw a young girl, around his own age, standing before him. She trembled a little, her white hands clutching the pale pink cloth of her richly embroidered dress. Her hair was straight and golden and fell all the way to the small of her back.She wore a delicate golden band around her head that had a radiant blue sapphire stone set in thefront. Her skin was pale, and she had big, beautiful blue eyes that stared straight into his.

He stumbled back a few steps, shaking his head. "What…h-how?" He waited a moment, studyingher furiously. "Who are you? Where did you come from?" She stepped toward him, holding outher hand. She smiled. He felt as though he were in an otherworldly presence. "You're Zelda," hesaid simply, just knowing it. He didn't know how, he just knew…though he had never laid eyes onthe Princess before.

She nodded. "I am," she said, softly. Her voice was the same as Sheik's…only with a normalHylian accent.

He shook his head. "And your bodyguard?" he asked.

The corner of her mouth tipped up in an amused smile. "We are the same."

He stepped closer to her. "But…" he stammered, confused. "Your…your eyes." That was all hecould think to say.

Zelda looked to the ground and tucked a strand of blonde hair behind her delicately pointed ear."It is merely a trick of magic."

"You are very good," he conceded. She nodded. Neither of them said anything for a few moments."You are very beautiful," he added, wondering why on earth he had just spoken his thoughtsaloud. She looked up into his eyes, smiling. He held out his hand. "I am pleased to meet you."

She came and took it, but he bowed before her. "My lady," he murmured.

Zelda took his shoulders and pulled him up, looking into his eyes with her blue ones. "How long will it take to flee this place?" she asked, her voice soft and cultured.

Link shook his head. "At least two more days."

She nodded. "Very well." They both sat again, looking out to the rising sun. She looked at him,smiling in a more friendly manner. "Thank you again for saving me."

He nodded respectfully, smiling back at her. "Of course."

Part Three: Chapter Three

Link tore off a piece of bread, handing it to Zelda, who sat across from him. He chewed his ownpiece thoughtfully. "So…let me get this straight. The Sheikahs are all women, and they live inKakariko Village?"

Zelda shook her head, taking the bread. "They weren't always just women, Link. But they havefought many unseen and unheard battles within the last few decades. Ganon has not recently escaped…" Her voice trailed off, a sad look in her deep blue eyes. "We dispatched nearly all ourmen in order to form a resistance against Ganon, to fight him before he could gain strength." Sheshook her head. "It failed; he is too powerful."



"You say 'we,'" Link interjected. "You speak as though you are part of their tribe."

"Well, I…" she started, looking to the ground as though trying to find the right words. "My nurse,Impa, is of their tribe. She taught me many things…I lived with them for a long time, during…

well, during the first Dark War." Link understood that Zelda spoke of when Ganon had first beendefeated. "I was young at the time…my father thought it good for my own safety." She paused totake a bite of bread.

"Ever since then I've lived in Kakariko with them…but now very few are left. Our Village wasraided with soldiers of the Dark One, and our few remaining men were taken as hostages. Many of our people fled just in time." Her voice was now reduced to a low whisper. "Many were killed."

"I'm sorry," Link said. He didn't know what he would do if the Kokiris were ever attacked…they were like his own people.

"Impa and I were taken as hostages," she continued. "I did not have time to disguise myself atfirst…but then I helped Impa to run away. I took on as Sheik and pretended to be her."

Link shook his head. "You were very brave to do such a thing."

She smiled faintly. "Impa didn't want me to be brave. She wanted me to get away." She sighed."But I made her…in the end."

Link smiled at the young girl, taking her small white hand. She was very young, most likely younger than himself. "You are strong and brave, my lady. I'm even starting to think you wouldhave been fine had I not come along…" He chuckled.

She laughed as well, cocking her head to the side. She looked out the mouth of the cave. "It's timeto go," she said simply, standing.

Link laughed. "I see you are taking control of this journey. Anything else I should know about?"

Her blue eyes twinkled. "No, not that I can think of. However, I plan to have ridden much beforenoon. It gets awfully hot here at noon, and we should rest then."

He nodded his head, standing, and stamping out the fire. He slung his pack over his shoulder."It's always hot here, my lady. But we'll do as you say."

He looked over her. She wore a floor length, slim dress of pale silk and delicate designs andpatterns on the front. She looked like a princess. Too much like a princess.

"My lady," he said, a little awkwardly. "Um…I, I think that it would be best if you put somethingelse on to wear. Those clothes are not fit for traveling."

She looked in dismayed agreement at her attire, frowning. "I know. But I've nothing else to wear."

"Wait," said Link suddenly, dropping his pack to the floor and rummaging through it. "Here, here,I've forgotten this." He pulled out his dark blue tunic and held it out to her. "I got this in Zora'sDomain," he said, smiling. "I think it should fit."

She took it, smiling. "A fine place; and thank you. So if you'll excuse me…" she said, her eyesmoving pointedly to the clothing. "I think your horse needs tending to."

Link blushed a little, laughing. "Oh, yes, ha ha, of course. Sorry!"

After picking his pack up again and running outside, he laughed to himself and looked around for



Epona. He didn't see her, so he pulled out the Ocarina and sang for her. She quickly trotted into view. He smiled at her as she approached him and he fed her the bread that was left from theirsimple breakfast. He ran his hand down her pale mane and nuzzled her nose with his, smiling.

"My pretty, pretty girl."

She snorted happily and nibbled his hair.

Zelda came out momentarily, and Link grinned in amusement to see her. The blue tunic was a bitloose-fitting on her, considering her frame was slender and small, though besides that fact itseemed to fit well, as she was nearly his own height. The tunic reached just below her knees, andshe had the brown belt on, as well as high, brown leather boots (much like his) that he had notnoticed her wearing before. She had her hair pulled behind her in a braid, and her jeweledheadpiece was gone, presumably wrapped snugly inside her gown that she carried, and presently stuffed inside his pack. She smiled at him, her blue eyes twinkling with excitement, their richcolor brought out by the matching outfit she wore.

"Thank you Link."

"You're welcome!" he replied cheerfully. "I'm glad you like it. It looks nice on you."

She smiled sweetly. "Thank you."

Link helped Zelda onto the horse, then jumped up behind her, taking the reigns by reachingaround her waist to secure that she wouldn't fall off. She smiled back at him, then looked up at theposition of the sun. "Are we ready, Link?"

"Yes," he answered, giving Epona a gentle prodding with his heels. It was all she needed. She wasas anxious to get moving as he was. She didn't need much direction, as the Valley was narrow andall she had to do was run. Link looked down over Zelda's shoulder. She was holding loosely toEpona's mane, her knees pulled in a little, her feet firmly on the horse's sides. She looked like sheknew how to ride well.

She looked up at him. "You have a beautiful horse."

"She's not really mine..." he said, half wishing she were. "Well, a friend gave her to me. I don'tknow if I'm to keep her, though."

Zelda nodded as though she were listening, but looked nearly lost in thought. A wisp of blond hairfell into her eyes, and she didn't seem to notice. She just thoughtfully stared off ahead of her.

After a while of riding Zelda got more comfortable in her position, leaning back against Link, which was easy since, because of the reigns, his arms were already about her waist. Link smiled asshe leaned back on him, feeling like he was doing his job well. He was protecting the princess. Hisfaint smile turned more tender though, as he realized that he enjoyed the feel of the young girl inhis arms. More than she was lovely, perhaps the loveliest creature he had ever laid eyes upon, but

because her very spirit seemed lovely. He couldn't describe why, for he had known her for only afew hours.

She seemed like she perfectly fit into him.

He could tell she was nearly asleep, if not already asleep. He then realized that he had neglected toask her what went on during her captivity. She hadn't mentioned it, so he assumed that she didn't

want to talk about it. Still, at the thought he frowned. He didn't want to imagine what kind of suffering or torture the two women had endured.

After a few hours, when Link guessed that it was roughly mid-day, he stopped Epona under the



shade of a gnarled tree on the side of the road. There was a small brook running beside it, and hefigured he should re-fill his canteens.

He gently lifted the Princess from the saddle and laid her against the tree so she could have someshade from the scorching sun. When he returned from filling the canteens with water, she lookedup at him, awake.

"You know, Ganondorf is in the Gerudo Fortress."

Link blinked in surprise, handing her canteen to her. "How do you know this?"

She drank deeply from it, and then wiped her mouth with the back of her hand. "He must be. Why else would they take me there?"

"Hmm. Good point," he replied, sitting down beside her.

She sighed sleepily and leaned against his shoulder, curling her legs up under her. "I'm sorry,Link, I'm so tired..."

He smiled, putting his arm about her shoulders. "No, go ahead. Just rest." She was sleeping

within minutes.

Link smiled to himself, looking out into the dry Valley. The brook was a sign that they wereleaving the desert behind. Tomorrow they would reach Hyrule Field, and would be no longer inGerudo Valley.

Part Three: Chapter Four

Zelda hopped down off Epona without any assistance from Link, surveying the landscape as muchas possible in the dark. He saw her gaze flicker restlessly over the barren lands, and herexpression certainly didn't get any more cheerful. Her face was tired and dusty- he could tell she

wearied from the endless riding.

"It all looks the same, I know," he said. "But by this time tomorrow we'll be out of here."

Zelda nodded without a word and furrowed her brows. "I suppose we're stopping to sleep... Where?"

Link took Epona's reigns with one hand and pointed over to a small cleft in the rock wall on theopposite side of the road with the other hand. "Over there, follow me."

She followed silently as he led them over to the cleft. Link looked it over, assessing it. It would not be spacious, but there was enough room for two people to sleep with a few feet of room betweenthem. Still, it offered more protection from the elements (and from enemies) than merely sleepingout in the open would.

Link tied Epona to a root sticking out from a tiny gnarled tree and started a fire with a few twigs,roots, and some grass that he managed to find. He tore off two ample chunks of bread from hislittle loaf, while Zelda looked over the cleft, and held them suspended over the fire for a minuteuntil they were toasted. He then fished around in his bag until he found the bottle of milk, yankedout the cork, and set it beside him on the ground.

Zelda came over and sat on the other side of the small fire. He handed her piece of bread to her,then dipped his piece in the milk and began to eat. Looking a little hesitant, she followed suit. Shesmiled when she tasted it. "Oh, this is good."



Link nodded, smirking good naturedly. "When you're on the road as often as I am, you get to becreative with repetitive meals..."

She laughed. Her laugh was pretty, and very youthful. After they had finished their silent meal,she unwound the tie from her braid and let her hair fall down, combing it out with her fingers asshe stared contently into the fire. He wondered why the King of Hyrule hadn't married her off yet,she was so attractive and kind. Yet, he sensed a willful spirit in her, perhaps she drove men away.Perhaps she didn't care much for them either.

"How old are you, Zelda?" he asked softly, breaking the long silence.

She looked up in slight surprise, dropping her hands to her lap. "Sixteen."

"Old enough to marry, for a Princess."

She smiled a little sarcastically. "The years of my childhood haven't exactly allowed much time formy father to match-make. Governing Hyrule has proved more difficult than it was in my grandfather's time."

Link frowned, speaking almost as if to himself. "Well, soon it will be right again. Soon."

Zelda looked concerned for him, and reached out her hand as if to take his, but then drew back quickly, looking at the ground. "Don't blame yourself," she said softly. "It should not haven beenthe responsibility of a boy to defeat Ganondorf."

"Well, I've grown. And this time there shall be no escaping for him..."

"Then why do you lead us in the opposite direction?" she asked, cutting him off. He sensed nodisapproval in her voice, only earnest curiosity.

He sighed deeply, and shuffled his feet around in the dirt. "I am not yet prepared to face him," headmitted.

"Link, if anyone is prepared to face Ganon, it is you. I have never seen a more able soldier."

He chuckled a little. "But, my lady, never before have you seen me in battle! You rely upon thefigure of Legend."

"You fit the picture I have heard in stories from my nurse, and others," she said quietly, but withconviction. "And you showed true courage by rescuing someone who you thought was ameaningless servant. That shows character also, and a kind heart." Her face showed heradmiration for him. "I believe you to be what I have heard you are."

"Regardless," he said, pleased at her thoughts of him, but not wanting to become immersed inthem. "I have been summoned to find the Master Sword of Legend- that is the only weapon thatcan truly defeat Ganon." Her eyes were wide. "I only need to know where to find it..." he added.

Zelda smiled at him, excitement sparkling in her blue eyes. "I know that it l ies in the Palace of Hyrule," she said. "I know many things of this blade."

Link leaned forward, his fingers clutching the dust in eagerness. "Do you?"

She smiled knowingly. "I know much more than you could guess, Link."

~~~



"Papa told me legends of great things, things of Hyrule's history and her heroes. From the timeI was young I heard of wise Goddesses, shimmering blades, lost jewels of power, and sacredfountains that flowed with healing waters. Here is my Legend which I shall relate to you.

"Long ago, when the world was nothing, the Three Great Golden Goddesses descended upon the Void. One was Din, and she was mighty and powerful and strong. The second was Nayru, who was wise beyond all. And the third was Farore, and she was courageous and brave They came togetherand created the world, Hyrule the center of it, where they lavished most care and work. It truly

became a great place.

"They then left, after their work was completed, and returned back to the Heavens. Their powerrushed forward and collided at one spot, and that became the Triforce. Three triangles cametogether to create it, one for each goddess. It landed to rest at a sacred spot, and a wise man cameforth and vowed to keep it safe, for anyone who touched it (be their heart evil or pure) wasgranted their wish.

"That man became the King of Hyrule (my distant kin) and had a sacred and secret chamber builtand around that was built the Temple of Time, which now stands not far from my home; for alltime it shall remain there. The king and his many sages and priests put a special lock on the door

to keep anyone from ever gaining entrance to the Triforce- the power that holds all in Hyrule goodand keeps it from corruption. Only the Royal Family is ever told its secrets for becomingunlocked.

A jewel of river A jewel of fire A jewel of earthThe song of a lyre All of these things must beFor entrance to the Powers Three

"Many times before have evil men tried to gain access to the Triforce, but never before have they succeeded.

"The people of Hyrule wondered at how they would stop evil from forever trying to defeat them. A great sword-smith, well versed in lore and in great favor with the goddesses, spent his life creatinga sword with a blade so true that it could never be broken. Then he took it as a gift to the royalfamily, and the Queen worked her magic into the blade, and it became pure and noble and able todefeat anything evil.

"However, if the Dark Forces ever got hold of this weapon, it could mean dire consequences.Before long, the people had become so cautious that the King decided to lock the sword away untila true hero, of pure heart and true cause, came along to release it from the depths of its prison..."

~~~

Zelda looked Link full in the face. The beams of the moon shone on her, the embers of the dyingfire glowing dimly beneath them. The air was still.

"I believe you are that hero, Link. The Hero of Ages. The Hero of Time."

Link looked down at the dirt, the full weight of his responsibility heavy on his young shoulders.He shook his head slowly, his face devoid of any expression except thought. Should he believe theconvictions of a girl he did not even know? Was he truly the one? Was he truly the hero of Legend

who would finally be able to use the Master Sword and defeat Ganon? He didn't know. He wasn't



sure. Saria thought so. He smiled slightly. Saria knew so, or thought she did. He looked uponZelda. She thought so too.

Zelda smiled, her gaze resting on the few embers of the little fire that still glowed with heat. "It'slate, Link. I know you...you probably need some time to think this over. I'm going to sleep, so,goodnight." She stood, walked over to the cleft and then turned back to him. She looked like anangel bathed in the full moonlight, and she smiled a little. "You know, I'm always there to help

you, if you should ever need it. Please don't be afraid to ask."

Link placed the milk bottle in his pack and tied it, looking up at her. "You've already helped morethan you know, your highness."

"Zelda," she corrected, her eyes twinkling.

Part Three: Chapter Five

Link could tell that by the dense grey color of the sky that it would still be a few hours until dawn.But he knew if he remained sleeping, it could mean the deaths of both Zelda and himself.

They were coming, and they were coming fast.

"Zelda," he whispered urgently, rolling over to shake the sleeping girl. He gritted his teeth."Zelda!"

Her eyes fluttered open, clearing of sleep unusually fast. "Link? What?" It was clear in her voicethat she could tell something was the matter.

"Zelda, please," he said, scrambling out of the cleft and untying Epona. He scattered dust over theremains of their fire and slung his pack on. "No time for questions. Just get on the horse, and beas quiet as you can."

Zelda nodded, getting up quickly, fear evident in her eyes. She hopped nimbly onto Epona,awaiting him to get on behind her. He shook his head. "No, I need to get on front." She looked at

him quizzically as he jumped on in front of her. "Hold on, Zelda, to my waist. Don't fall off… I'mgoing to be riding very fast."

Zelda's arms flew around his waist and her eyes shut in terror as she heard the sounds he hadheard only minutes before. Loud shouts and rumblings were coming from the west, very close tothem. Ganondorf was sending his forces out from the Gerudo fortress. An army was descendingupon Hyrule….and their time was running out.

~~~

Link rode as hard and fast as he could urge Epona for a few minutes, trying to ignore the loudmarching not far behind them. They would not be able to outrun the army that was closing in onthem -they had already lost precious time while sleeping- and their only hope was to find a hidingplace until the soldiers passed through.

Finally Link spotted a small cave in the rock wall of the Valley. He turned sharply and urgedEpona into it, going as far back as he dared to. The cave was dark, dank, and eerily silent. Hecould hear Zelda breathing heavily behind him, her arms snugly about his waist. She trembled.He wanted to comfort her, but he was shaking himself. She pressed her forehead against his back,speaking ever so softly in the tongue she had spoken in as Sheik.



Link hopped off Epona, hoping that he wouldn't fall or bump into anything in the dark. Whispering sternly for Epona to stay where she was, he carefully raised his arms to Zelda andlifted her off, setting her down on her feet gently beside him. Her hands still clung to his arms.

"Please say you're not going anywhere, Link. They're close… they'll kill you if you're seen!"

Link shook his head, looking into the dim figure of the girl before him. He could barely see Zeldain the dark. "I'm going closer to the mouth once they arrive. I want to watch them pass. If we'relucky, they'll stop to rest so we can find out some news."

Zelda nodded, her body losing some of its former tension. She released his arms, but stayedstanding where she was. "I'm coming with you," she said firmly.

Link smiled a little, deciding for his own sake that he wouldn't try to talk her out of it.

~~~

The mass of Ganondorf's soldiers did stop to rest very near the mouth of the cave.

Later, Link almost wished they hadn't.

Link and Zelda, though they were very close to the cave entrance, were well hidden from view of outsiders- crouched behind some large boulders at the edge of the mouth and a few yards back.The army was mostly men, but there were a some moblins off to themselves, and even a few Gerudo women amongst them. Zelda's eyes were wide with fascination as they observed thesoldiers stopping to rest. They were only there for a while, for it was not even noon yet and they

would most likely be traveling into the night.

Link listened especially closely to a conversation between two Gerudian women and a leadingofficer in the group. The women talked the language of the Gerudos to each other, but the mandid not speak it, so they used common tongue mostly.

"I'm tired of sitting here. We should be out of this sand trap by now," the man grumbled.

One of the women's eyes flashed. "I live in this sand trap," she replied hotly. "You think I'm notanxious to leave?" Her voice was mysterious and thickly accented.

The other woman quieted her friend personally, speaking in Gerudian. Then she turned to theman. "Both of you, hush. The last thing we want to do is get on Labnyth's bad side."

"He has a good side?" the woman retorted with a laugh. All three of the soldiers seemed amused.

"Well, one good thing has come of all this so far- and it means less work for us," the man said.

Both women looked curious. "What do you mean?" asked one.

He chuckled a little. "You females have been shut up inside that tower for too long. Although, I wouldn't expect either of you to know, it was my own men who brought the news from Hyrule."

The first woman laughed, her eyes sparkling as she interrupted the man. "We know your men better than you think, but say."

The second woman giggled, and the man rolled his eyes, a hint of a smile on his face. "Apparently the assassins Lord Ganon sent out a while back did their job well. The King is dead."



Link's heart skipped a beat and his hands started to tremble. He looked over to Zelda right away,the continuing conversation no longer important to him. Her face was white and her eyes wereclosed. She looked like death itself. She was trembling, and her breathing was jerky.

"Oh," Zelda whispered, shaking her head. She inhaled quickly and dropped her head.

Link's heart broke to look at her. He took her hand, for it was all he could think to do. It was cold,and pale, and seemed even smaller than before. He squeezed it gently, hoping that he was helpingeven the smallest bit. He was relieved to feel her squeeze back. She looked up suddenly, and hesaw the trace of tears on her cheeks. Yet her face was calm, determined, set. Her eyes flashed asshe looked out at the army before them.

"We must hurry and leave at nightfall," Zelda said, her words slow and paced. "We cannot beatthem to Hyrule, but we must make it by dawn. Then we ride to the palace. You've a sword tofetch."

Part Four: Chapter One

Link breathed a deep sigh of relief as Epona's footsteps went from muffled on hard rock and dirtto silent over the green grass of Hyrule.

"Praise Nayru," Zelda sighed, drooping with exhaustion. Her arms fell a little looser about his waist, and he turned around to look at her. Her blue eyes were shut, wisps of blonde hair strayedfrom her braid, and her face was deep set with weariness and sorrow. He pitied her.

"Zelda," he whispered, gently touching her cheek with his finger. Her eyes fluttered open and methis. "We did it," he added softly. She smiled, squeezing her eyes shut and nestling deeper intohim. The light of dawn was approaching fast, and they had been riding hard all night, followingthe ominous sounds of the army marching in front of them.

Link made himself look away from Zelda, and turned his gaze out to the immense fields of Hyrulethat lay before them. He could see Lon-Lon Ranch not too far ahead, and he smiled sadly. Hiseyes drifted over the plains, and out to the grey shape of the castle far off. He frowned, hearing

rumblings like thunder. Screams far, far off. He looked back to Zelda, his heart aching withtenderness for her.

"My lady," he said gently. "Don't fall asleep. I…I fear what lies ahead."

Zelda opened her eyes again, and he was caught off guard by how blue and beautiful they were.They held a sadness that had only crept in a few hours ago, when they had learned the fate of herfather. "I know. Oh Link…" she whispered, shuddering. "Hyrule…what is to become of it? You saw how many there were…"

Now Link had no time to doubt himself, he had to reassure Zelda. "Don't worry," he said. "Juststay awake…I have a feeling soon enough we'll both be needed to help our fair land."

After he saw that she was up and alert, and tightly holding onto his waist, he set off again.

~~~

Link heard Zelda gasp from behind him as they rode ever closer to the walls of Hyrule's capitolcity. They could smell sulfur and fire in the air. The grey sky of dawn was mixed with smoke andglowing an eerie red. Link heard more rumbling from the sky, as though a storm was coming.They were close now, and they saw that the drawbridge over the moat had been smashed, thesplintered pieces floating around the murky water. They could hear gruesome sounds of battle



and screaming from inside the walls.

"Oh…" Zelda muttered. "Oh…my people…"

"Hush," Link said softly, placing his hand over hers, and closing his eyes. He took in a deep breath. They kept riding until they were close enough to walk to the moat. He hopped off Epona,then looked up right away and scooped Zelda into his arms and set her down gently on theground. The earth rumbled with sounds of war.

As soon as he released her, she went back into his arms and flung her arms around his neck. Heinhaled suddenly, surprised, but closed his eyes so she wouldn't see the tears welling in them. Heput his arms around her snugly, wishing she would stay wrapped in his arms forever. He couldfeet her sporadic breathing, and he pressed her even closer, inhaling her scent. She was like a

young, tender flower in his arms. Beautiful, sweet, innocent. Against his desire, he pushed hergently from him, still holding onto her shoulders. She looked up into his face, then quickly lookeddown at the ground.

"I'm…sorry Link. I- I didn't mean to-"

He cupped her face with his hands. "No," he said, willing her to look back up at him. "I know

you're scared, Zelda." In fact, this was really the only time he had seen her scared. She was alwaysso brave. "I am too." His voice nearly cracked. He knew deep inside him their chances of survival were very slim. "But you have to be strong for me, all right?" he added softly. He released her faceand looked away. "If one of us isn't, we don't have any hope at all."

Zelda gave a soft smile and took his hand firmly. "Come, Link," she said. "It's time we both be brave and strong." He saw her gaze flicker to the city walls so close to them. Angry shouts andscreams and burning could be heard from inside.

Link turned away from her for a moment, his pulse quickening. He slung his bag onto Epona,then turned her in the direction of Lon-Lon Ranch and whispered to her, giving her a swat on the

backside. She took off like a flash, and Link smiled. If they survived, shelter and Epona would be waiting for them at the Ranch.

Looking back at Zelda, he took her hand once more.

~~~

His boots wet and muddy from slips walking across the splintered beams of the brokendrawbridge, Link felt better on dry ground. Zelda stood close to him, and he felt more confident

with her by his side. But neither of them were prepared for what they saw.

What had once been a peaceful marketplace had turned into a fierce and bloody battle. Shops andstalls where Link had purchased bread, potions, and other foods were now burned and hacked to

bits by Moblin spears. Fire rose up to the sky, the air was thick and hard to breathe. Hylians lay dead in the cobblestone street, which now ran with blood. Moblins, spears in hand and rings intheir snout-like noses walked around, sniffing, and searching for any survivors. Heavily armedand veiled men were everywhere, ransacking shops and tormenting their prisoners, who had beengagged, tied, and strewn on the bloody ground, screaming and whimpering.

Link was too stunned and shocked to move, but Zelda's trained reflexes kicked in almostimmediately. She grabbed his hand and yanked them to the cover of a nearby vendor stand, whichhad been toppled but not burnt. They hid underneath it, struggling not to breathe loudly andpeering through cracks in the wood to look around the marketplace.



"How could it have come to this so quickly?" Link whispered, astonished at the scene before them.Soldiers ran down the street from opposite sides of the market, dragging prisoners behind them,covered in mud and blood. The Moblins had to be kept away by the biggest, strongest soldiers, forthey would kill and eat any prisoner not protected.

He looked over to Zelda, her eyes mirroring all he felt. "Ganon has his ways," she said in a quiet,knowing voice. "You've no idea how bloodthirsty and evil his servants are. They are like him…only he's more civilized." Link raised an eyebrow at her, but she just nodded. "Oh, yes, it's true.Ganondorf is like a serpent- cunning, crafty, evil to the core. But he's got a wicked civility abouthim, not like these pig-headed barbarians."

They were silent for a few minutes, Link pondering the situation they had gotten themselves in.They had to reach the palace soon or else they would be caught. Perhaps the palace had already

been invaded… "Zelda," he said. She turned her head to look at him. "Can you lead us to the castle without getting seen?"

She frowned, thinking. "I know many ways to get there…but you'd have to follow me quickly andnot speak at all."

Link smiled lop-sidedly. "I can do that."

Part Four: Chapter Two

Link held his breath and dashed around the corner, as he had seen Zelda do, then through thesmall wooden door on the side of the palace. When he shut the door behind him, his heartpounding heavily, he saw Zelda in front of him, smiling excitedly. They had done it! Lookingaround the dimly lit room, he could see they were in the castle kitchen. He looked back to the

young princess in front of him.

"Are the people still here in danger?" he asked her.

Zelda shook her head, her eyes scanning her surroundings, and her ear cocked to listen. "There'sno one left here, Link. The soldiers have killed or taken prisoner anyone who didn't escape before

the town was raided." She looked down. "I…I suppose that they killed my father withoutpermission from Ganon…I…I would imagine Ganon would've wanted him…alive…" Her voicetrailed off.

Link put his arm around her shoulder for a moment. "Perhaps," he said. "But then again…perhapsthey only wanted you."

She looked up into his eyes, her eyes wide with fear and innocence. Blue like forget-me-nots, bluelike the sky, like a sapphire. She didn't say a word, but broke his gaze and took his hand, leadinghim quietly out of the room. They went along many deserted halls, Link hardly able to seeanything in the dimness. The hallways were winding and narrow, the torches on the wallssputtering. However, as this was her longtime childhood home, Zelda seemed confidant inknowing exactly where she was going. Link trusted her with his life. He trusted her… he…feltsomething more for her too, but his heart was beating too frantically with fear and excitement toadmit to him exactly what it was.

The door had been smashed open in the door that Zelda led them into. Walking over the bits of shattered glass and splinters of wood, Link could see plainly that this room had been Zelda's. A look of sorrow flickered into her eyes as she gazed around. The room was large and elegantly furnished, with windows framed in long, deep purple drapes, and beautifully molded and colorfullamps and pots on every table. It was so still and quiet. She walked over to her dresser andrummaged around in a drawer for a moment, pulling out an object wound skillfully in a whitecloth. Holding it so he could see it, she unwrapped it. He saw that her pale fingers clutched a pure



gold lyre. It was not large, but it was beautiful beyond anything he had ever seen. The gold body and even the strings shone, reflecting off the light that slanted in through the broken windows.

Zelda looked up at him, her eyes meeting his. "I told you before that I was a harpist…" she said, asthough she was thinking over their history. Link nodded, speechless. Everything around them wasin utter turmoil…yet in this room for a moment things seemed peaceful. But the peaceful feeling

was broken as Zelda strode across the room, tucking the small harp inside the folds of her shirtand into her belt. She looked back at him over her shoulder as she stood in the doorway, her

blonde hair falling into her face. "We have to get you a sword…pray that my memory does notfalter."

Link quickly caught up with her, and they resumed walking. Their footsteps were muffled by thesoft leather of their boots, but the quiet shuffling still made an eerie echo off the stone floors and

bounced off the walls. Everything was dark, and empty feeling. They could hear shouts fromoutside. As he walked alongside the princess he could feel her nervousness, though her face wassolemn as her true courage and boldness surfaces. She was determined and brave through herfear.

Link was barely paying attention to where they were headed, his thoughts were so fixed on the beautiful young girl walking beside him. As he let his attention turn to their surroundings, he saw

that they were in a huge, open chamber, thickly carpeted with rich red velvet. Velvet drapes hungfrom the windows. Portraits and paintings now lay singed or broken on the floors, the bare spotson the wall showing where they once had hung. He noticed one of a very young Zelda sitting onthe lap of a kind, regal looking woman with a gold crown. There were two thrones and many largechairs at the far end of the room, many of which had been toppled. The room smelled of ash and

burning wood. Zelda walked confidently up to the larger throne, which was pressed against the back wall of the room, and ran her fingers down the solid oak arm. The velvet lining had been setaflame, but the chair itself was too thick and heavy to move.

Zelda crouched on the ground, directly in front of the throne. Link could see her examining themoldings on the bottom wooden panel. It appeared to be the symbol of Nayru, the Great Goddessof water.

"Why that emblem?" he suddenly asked.

She didn't look at him, but smiled, drawing her jeweled headpiece out from her shirt where it had been hanging from her neck. She took hold of the sapphire. "Nayru has always been special to my family. We had been gifted with much wisdom, and we praised her for it…" Link smiled,

wondering if she realized what a wise young woman she was!

She traced the etchings with her finger, especially looking over a deep indent in the wood, right inthe center. Placing the jewel into the space, she pushed until it locked with a click, and suddenly the throne began to move.

"Ha!" she cried, standing. She threw her arms around Link and laughed, he laughing andmarveling at what he had just seen. He gazed at the throne as it stopped moving with a thud.Zelda drew back from him and they crouched together in the place where the throne had been. Ithad been covering a large picture, hanging on the stone wall. The picture was at least four feetlong, and reached within a foot of the ground. It was a picture of a sword, set in a stone pedestal.

"Oh…" he said, his eyes widening at the sight of it. "That…that's it! Is it not?"

"That is the Master Sword," she agreed, her eyes wide in excitement. "But it is merely a painting,Link." Looking from him, she turned to the painting and felt along the top of the frame,

withdrawing a small key. She stuck the key into a small crack in the stone, and clicked it intoplace. The painting fell from the wall, and she tossed it out of the way.



Looking in amazement at where the picture once had been, Link gasped as he laid eyes on, insteadof cold hard stone, an opening like that of a tunnel. Zelda stood looking too. The tunnel was dark,

but they could see some light in the distance. Zelda looked up at him. "This is it, Link," she said."This is your destiny…" She paused, her voice dropping to a whisper. "There's no turning back now."

He sighed heavily, setting his jaw in determination. He took her shoulders suddenly and turnedher around to face him. Seeing her cock her head to the side as she stared at him with those

beautiful blue eyes and a half smile, he thought about taking her and kissing her, right thatmoment. His stomach flip-flopped inside him as he realized with a pang that he loved this girlmore than he had ever loved anyone. He would die to protect her. But instead he let go and took her hand tentatively, stepping one foot into the secret door.

"Come with me," he said.

She followed, and they both crept along for a long while. All he could hear was their breathing andthe scratch of clothing against the small stone tunnel. He was so close to his goal, now…and closeto Zelda. For some reason, he couldn't decide which of those was more important to him.

As they stepped out and into a room, Link saw there was a solitary beam of light coming into the

chamber, from the wall, as though it had been slightly cracked. The room was not too large, but was very high, and had a wide platform in the middle of the room. The silence was thick andheavy, but broken by Zelda's sharp intake of breath. He saw what she saw too, when he took hiseyes from her face. On the low platform was a pedestal of stone, and sticking out from it was thehilt of a sword, blue, and with a golden jewel on the center. It sparkled and glinted in the singleray of light coming from the crack in the wall. His breathing quickened, and he felt heat and chillsspreading all over him.

Zelda looked at him, fear, excitement, and purpose in her cloudless eyes. "Pull it out," she saidfirmly.

~~~

Link's blood pumped hot and fast as they crept and ran through the corridors of the palace. Hishand was clenched tightly around the royal blue hilt of the Blade. His heart was racing like itnever had before. Excitement pulsed through his veins. And his senses only ran hotter when Zeldagave a smile and a laugh in his direction, cupping her hand gently against his face. He hoped hedidn't flush at her touch.

"Oh Link…brave Link, there is no doubt in my mind that you are our hero. Holding that sword…"Her fingers moved to his shoulder then trailed down his arm to his hand where he held theMaster Sword. It sent goose bumps down his spine. "You do look like a true warrior, not merely a

boy."

"Well," he said, smiling sarcastically. "We shall see." He lowered his voice until it was at a moresolemn pitch and he looked into her eyes deeply. "I may prove to be the one to put an end toGanon at last…but no Legend of Princess Zelda says that I'm going to survive."

Her lips parted slightly, and for an instant her eyes reflected something like fear, only deeper andstronger. But she blinked and moment passed. She smiled sweetly, clutching her hand around histhat held the sword. "Princess Zelda knows that you will," she whispered.

Although feeling another boost of confidence surge through him at her tender touch, his heartskipped a beat as he heard loud footsteps approaching quickly. Zelda's eyes widened and she

yanked him into a dark alcove in the wall. A curtain was half draped over the alcove, helping the



darkness hide them from view. They both watched as three soldiers walked through the hall,searching in all the nearby rooms, and sending their voices loudly to each other as they walked.

"I know they're in here. They've got to be somewhere."

"We're on a wild goose chase and you know it."

"Yeah, there is no way they could have gotten past us…"

"I saw them with my own eyes! Those stupid kids that are always causing Lord Ganon trouble."

"I thought it was just the one boy…"

"Well…come on, they're not here."

"Did you get Lord Ganon's hopes up too? Huh?"

"Lord Ganon is not here."

"What?"

"He should be here by now!"

"He is, he's at the temple."

There was a hushed pause.

"Good Din, he's getting It, isn't he?" was the soft reply.

There was a sharp whistle of amazement. "Well I wouldn't mind a look at It, myself…"

Rough deep laughing and slapping of backs was heard as the guards continued to converse as they walked away.

Link looked over at Zelda and saw that her eyes were shining feverishly, and as he touched herhand it was cold and slightly trembling. "Oh Nayru…" she murmured, turning to look straight intohis eyes. "He's after the Triforce!"

Part Four: Chapter Three

The silence was eerie and almost frightening as they stood on the steps on the Temple of Time.Rain splattered down from the sky, bouncing and spraying off of the stone building. The sky wasgrey, and very air seemed cloudy; a light misty fog hung in the air. Things were quieter than they had been in the marketplace.

"He's not here yet," Zelda whispered urgently. "We still have time."

Link grabbed his hat off and ran his fingers through his wet hair. "Are we going to…" heswallowed hard, "to…"

Zelda took his hand, looking up to the door of the Temple. "We have to. We have to end this."

His mouth set in a grim line, Link, holding fast to Zelda's hand, led them up the stairs to the door.Pushing it open with a loud creak followed by a deep, enormous thud, they entered the beautiful

building. It was large and empty feeling, the only thing of notice in the single, enormous chamber being a wide pedestal against the back of the room with a large portrait of the Triforce painted on



the wall behind it, the gold paint shimmering in the low light of the torches mounted on the wall.

They walked to the pedestal, looking down. Three shallow holes were carved into the stone, and beside them were a few lines of strange symbols. The Ancient Hylian tongue; very few knew how to speak it, even less could read it. Certainly no one still alive. Zelda ran her fingers along theletters, smiling. "Can you read that?" Link asked curiously.

She smiled and shook her head, not taking her eyes from the letters. "No, I was never taught. My father could not even read it. But of course I know what it says…"

"You and your Legends," he muttered, his eyes twinkling.

She laughed, bumping shoulders playfully with him. "I told you long ago…" She suddenly laughedto herself, and then her eyes moved up to meet his. "Long ago indeed….how many days was it? Itseems so long now. Perhaps you remember:

A jewel of river A jewel of fire A jewel of earthThe song of a lyre

All of these things must beFor entrance to the powers three."

"Oh…of course!" Link exclaimed, biting his lip in excitement. He turned her to him and touchedhis fingers to her throat, feeling the sapphire on her slender neck. She smiled, taking it off todislocate the jewel from the rest of it, and handed it to him. He placed it on the pedestal, butdidn't put it in the proper spot yet. He frowned. "That's the jewel of river…what of the other two?"

No one spoke for a long moment, but Zelda's brow was furrowed in thought. "You were raised as aKokiri, were you not, Link?" she asked.

He frowned. "Yes. Why ever is that import-"

"You knew the Great, Wise, Deku Tree?"

"Yes."

"Who better than he to keep track of the jewel of earth? Has he ever given you anything?"

"Well…no…but…" Link gasped, dropping to his knees and rummaging through his sack. HisKokiri Sword sat in its sheath, but he quickly drew it out and showed the hilt to Zelda. "That, whatabout that?"

She smiled as she fingered the brightly shining green gem that was embedded into the brown hilt."Tis the Kokiri Emerald…" she said softly. She winced as she prepared to pry the gem from thesword. Surprisingly, it popped out easily.

Link grinned. "Sacred gems know their Hylian Princesses."

She laughed, true happiness twinkling in her eyes. They were so close to solving this final riddle.So close…yet one problem remained. The Master Sword that hung on his hip had been pulledfrom its long-time pedestal for a reason. He had a big job ahead of him.

Suddenly Zelda gasped and he jerked his head around to where he heard the loud thump. It wascoming from outside the door. Ganon and his forces were upon them. Zelda gave a soft cry. "OhLink!" she cried in a terrified whisper. "They're coming!"



Link took her shoulders firmly and turned her to him, his heart beating frantically, though hishead was surprisingly clear. "Zelda, calm yourself. Tell me, where is there a place to hide in thisplace? I know there must be something."

Zelda nodded. Taking his hand as the marching and shouting commenced outside, she rantowards the back of the room. She pushed open a door that blended into the wall, and led themdown a corridor. He saw that there were many winding halls… the secret rooms and corridors of the great Temple. She entered the right room and drew back a heavy curtain from the window toreveal a small trap door in the floor. Closing the curtain behind them, opening the door with acreak, and shutting and locking it securely behind them, they ran down the steep dirt steps.

~~~

Link sat in the tiny dirt tunnel, closing his eyes and trying to focus on the sounds of his own breathing. He was trying to blot out the sounds above him. The shouting, the running, thethumping of heavy boots on the stone floor of the temple that was just above them. Worst of all,he heard a voice that was all too familiar to him… a voice he heard in his worst nightmares.

Something that instantly took his attention from the outside sounds was the soft and shaky inhaleand exhale of Zelda. She sat close beside him, leaning against him, speaking softly in the Sheikahtongue.

Not saying a word, he took her in his arms and closed his eyes tightly. She didn't resist him, butnestled deeper into his embrace, trembling with fear. He knew how she felt. How long before theirhiding place was discovered? Ganon was cunning as well as evil. Link's heart sank as he realizedthat Ganon would have no reason to keep them alive once he found them. He no doubt had theremaining jewel, and once he found them, he would take the two gems and the harp and kill them

both. His heart tore to shreds inside him as he realized that fact.

Taking Zelda up in his arms and turning her to face him, he could make out her face in thedarkness. His eyes had adjusted to the low light, and he saw very clearly that she was thinking thesame thing. "Oh…Zelda…" he said, his voice cracking, tears welling up in his eyes.

"We're going to die…" she whispered ever so softly, shutting her eyes as tears slid out of them.

He cupped her face gently, leaning his forehead against hers, strangely calm despite their fatalsituation. His heart was beating frantically inside him, but for a different reason than fear fortheir lives.

"Then I suppose," he said slowly and softly, inhaling. "I suppose that I had better find some way to tell you how much I'm in love with you."

Her eyes fluttered wide open and her lips parted slightly. The expression of sheer surprise in her beautiful blue eyes quickly changed to one of tenderness. She smiled slightly and put her handsup to take his. Her breath was still shaking, but he felt something coming from her other thanfear. Perhaps she had forgotten all about their dire circumstances… as he had. All he could focuson was her. He couldn't hear anything, so intent was he on waiting for the sound of her voice. This

was the moment that would make or break his life.

"Link," she said tenderly, placing her hand on his hair and running her fingers down his cheek."My brave, brave Link."

"No braver than you. Not brave enough to kiss you without asking permission first, I'm afraid…"

Zelda laughed, tears welling in her blue eyes. Throwing her arms around his neck, she buried her





"Or perhaps he's wrong," the voice said. It was a deep, guttural voice that Link had heard longago, and so often heard in the back of his darkest dreams. He turned around quickly to face thespeaker.

Standing in the doorway of the Temple was a huge figure of a man, with broad shoulders andchest, immense brass and steel boots covering immense legs and calves, and a small, stoopedhead that nearly sunk into his shoulders, covered with thinly cropped fire-colored hair. Hisgauntlets went up his strong arms and up to his elbows, and on his chest plate and the belt that

went around his waist was the symbol of the Gerudo Tribe. His eyes were bright, and when Link looked on him, they shone with a demonic light. What drew Link's immediate attention was thelarge broadsword hanging from his left hip.

Link gulped, trying to look firm, although inside he was quaking. When he had first pulled theMaster Sword, he had felt like a real hero. Now he felt like a small boy compared to this monsterof a man. "Even if you kill me," Link said, doing his best to hold Ganondorf's piercing gaze

without trembling. "We don't have everything to unlock this door. You won't be able to get in."

Ganon's eyes shone brighter as a slow smile spread across his weathered, yellow-grey face.

"A jewel of river," he rasped, nodding to Zelda, who clutched the sapphire. "A jewel of earth," hecontinued, his gaze moving to the empty hilt of Link Kokiri sword which stuck out of his pack."And a jewel of fire," he finished, taking a medallion which hung around his neck and rubbing it

between his fingers, then dropping it back onto his chest. It was a deep, sparkling ruby, set inpure gold, which seemed almost to glow with an inner fire.

"Where did you get that?" demanded Zelda in a hushed voice.

Ganondorf gave a short laugh and stepped closer to them, the iron of his boots scraping againstthe floor. "Don't think that this little boy is the only one to have visited Death Mountain," he said

with a sneer at Zelda. Link's face went hot at Ganon's hostile expression, and he stepped in frontof the princess, putting his hand firmly on the hilt of the Master Sword which hung at his hip.

Ganon laughed in mockery. "I have the Goron Ruby. You have the Zora Sapphire and the KokiriEmerald, as well as the Sheikah Lyre and the knowledge of the Song of Time," he stated. "I cameto claim the Triforce for myself, and you two children are hardly going to stop me."

"You have no right to the Triforce," Link replied.

"I am King," Ganon said with a sneering smile. He spread his hands apart, palms up, and took another step towards them. "As soon as the assassins I sent succeeded in killing off the old man, I

became the new King of Hyrule, according to the laws of war."

"You are not the King!" Zelda cried, jumping to her feet, her eyes flashing with anger and a sheenof tears.

In what seemed a mere instant Ganondorf strode across the room and grabbed Zelda's arms,digging his fingers into her flesh. She cried out in pain, and Link inhaled sharply. "Now, now,"Ganon said, his teeth clenched. "I'm not going to kill you, my bird. Not yet at least. I need you toopen the door." He paused, tossing her heedlessly to the floor and looking hard at Link. "You onthe other hand, I have no use for." The corner of his lips curled up in a smirk. "I suggest you brace

yourself."

With a quick ring of metal and a flash of light, Ganon whipped out his sword and grasped it with both hands. Zelda gasped in horror as he swung it back and then heaved it forward, but Link wasquicker. Any other sword would have shattered beneath the blow of Ganon's immense blade, butthe Master Sword did not fail him. Ganon's eyes widened as Link drew the blade from his sheath



quick enough to block the blow.

Link's eyes flashed with courage, and he straightened his spine. "I'm braced," he replied throughclenched teeth.

Ganon reared back and struck again, and again, but Link blocked him every time. Ganon neverseemed to tire, but always came back with a harder strike than before. Link, on the other hand,

was not the Master Sword. The shining blade in his hands never gave way in the heat of battle, buthis arms were beginning to weaken, his legs were threatening to falter beneath him. Yet his heartand courage were staunch. He would not give up the fight and see Hyrule fall to its ruin.

"Give up, boy," Ganon grunted, swinging an especially tough blow near Link's knees, but Link jumped out of the way and brought the Master Sword up. Ganondorf dodged it. "You cannot winthis fight!"

Ganon quickly brought the hilt of his sword up and slammed it soundly against Link's temple.Link was knocked back and fell hard to the ground a few feet away, red and black spots burstinginto his line of vision. Ganon looked down at him, stepping forward. Link winced and his headspun. He could barely focus. His blood was hot, and spilling from the gash in his head. Hescrambled to his feet, blinking a few times, picking up his position of defense once again.

Ganon deflected a weak blow from the Master Sword and sliced at Link's stomach. To avoid beingslit open Link had to leap backwards, and he landed with a thud next to Zelda, who crouched by the pedestal. She grabbed his pack from him and squeezed his hand briefly, bending to whisper inhis ear.

"You can do it," she said. "I love you."

Link was on his feet before he realized it. His heart surged with warmth at the love he shared withthe beautiful Princess Zelda; he felt reenergized at her words. Biting his lip, he swung a series of hard blows at Ganon, all of which the Dark Lord dodged, but with difficulty. Link was muchquicker than he.

Their swords met with a clang in the air between them, and now it came down to a battle of strength, which in all reality Link knew he could not win. He didn't budge, willing his legs toremain strong. He willed his arms to push, though inch by inch Ganon was pushing the MasterSword to the ground.

Link squeezed his eyes shut, picturing Malon at the ranch. He imagined Saria in the forest, withthose laughing bright eyes that he had grown up looking at. But mostly he pictured Zelda as she

was, small and thin, utterly beautiful, yet worn with sorrow and travails. Her blue eyes filled withlight and love. He could not abandon all these people whom he loved so well.

Opening his eyes, he saw he had nearly lost the battle. Any moment his strength would give out,his sword would be flung from his hands, and he would succumb to whatever fate Ganon hadplanned for him, however slow or painful the death. But also as he opened his eyes, he saw Zeldastanding behind Ganon, looking tall, with a set and focused expression. She narrowed her eyes atGanon, drew up Link's bow and fitted an arrow to it, aiming it into Ganondorf's back.

Link's eyes widened for a moment, but he had no time to react. There was a whiz as the arrow wasreleased, and Link saw his chance. Ganon gasped in pain and let up on the pressure, and Link kicked the huge sword from Ganon's hand. The sword clanged against the stone floor and

bounced out of reach. There was a look of surprise and disbelief in Ganon's eyes. Link set hismouth firmly and steadied his hands, knowing he would only have a few seconds to act.

He grasped the hilt firmly, winding his fingers around it. Staring into Ganon's eyes, he placed thepoint of the Master Sword to his opponent's chest. "I got rid of you once before," he said. He



paused, perspiration and blood dripping off him and into his eyes. He gritted his teeth firmly. "I'mnot going to let you get away again." It took all his remaining strength and all the power andmagic of the Master Sword to plunge the blade into Ganondorf's heart.

Barely caring about the massive thud of Ganon's body hitting the ground, or the bright red bloodthat spattered on the floor and onto him, Link dropped his sword and collapsed, pressing hisforehead to the cold marble and inhaling deeply, his insides quivering.

"Link!" Zelda cried, rushing to kneel by his side. Her face was lined with concern and relief. Shetook his arms and helped him to rest on his knees. He couldn't help smiling as she took off his hatand ran her hand through his hair, then gently cupped his face. She closed her eyes, and he saw atear run down the side of her face as it crept out the corner of her eye. "You did it," she whispered,running her hand down his arm and grasping his hand.

"You helped me," he rasped, feeling as though a heavy burden had been lifted from him. He feltfree. He felt happy. They had won.

"Are you hurt?" Zelda asked, seeing Ganon's blood which had splattered onto his green tunic.

He shook his head, laughing, pulling her next to him and hugging her, burying his face in her

neck. "I couldn't be better!" he laughed. Looking into her face, he kissed her brow, holding hershoulders firmly. "You saved my life," he rasped.

"Then we're even," she said, her eyes twinkling, and she pulled his head down and kissed him.

Part Five: Chapter One

Link and Zelda rested beneath a tree in Hyrule Field that night, for their strength had given outand they could travel no more. In the morning they set out southward, and walked until they saw the high roofs and gates of Lon-Lon Ranch. Link smiled as they walked ever closer to it, Zeldaleaning against him for support, his arm about her shoulders. The sun was beginning to set.

As they approached the gate, Link gave a sigh and Zelda smiled up at him. "Will I like this place?"

she asked.

He nodded. "Oh, yes. These people are wonderful…some of my best friends."

"Link?!?" cried another voice- one Link had not heard for a while. Malon flung open the gate andrushed toward them, seeming not to notice Zelda. Link put the princess aside gently and

welcomed Malon's embrace. The young girl was near tears as she held tightly to Link.

"I knew you'd be coming," she said, smiling at him and kissing his cheek. "When you sent Epona...Oh, Link…I'm so glad you're safe!"

Link nodded, remembering how much he cared for Malon. He was so glad to see her smiling andpretty face. Turning Malon to where Zelda stood, Link cleared his throat. "Malon, this is PrincessZelda. Zelda, this is my dear friend Malon. I've known her since I was a child."

Zelda smiled shyly and bit her lip. "Hello," she said simply.

Malon's eyebrows flew up and she curtseyed. "Your highness! Welcome to my home." She took Link's hands looked about to say something.

"Malon," Link interrupted, taking one hand away from Malon's hold to pull Zelda up to them,putting his hand on the small of her back in a protective way. "Could we go inside? We've beenthrough so much, and Zelda is weary."



Malon nodded hurriedly, and they began walking to the house. "Oh, of course. Forgive me. Please,Princess Zelda, let me show you to your room."

"And then we can talk," Link said softly, and Malon could see how drained and weak he was. Shedidn't want to even guess what he had been through.

~~~

Link sat at the table silently until Malon came from downstairs, smiling at him. "I hope youdon't mind sleeping with Bess tonight," she said, a twinkle in her honey-brown eyes. She sat downacross from him, her expression becoming more solemn. "Link," she said softly. She put her handacross the table to hold his.

"Thank you so much, Malon," Link said, meeting her eyes, surprised at how much his voice broke when he spoke. "You have no idea how many times we nearly died…just today," he added with ahumorless laugh.

Link talked with Malon late into the night, telling her of his entire journey- from seeing Saria inthe Kokiri Forest, to meeting Zelda, to defeating Ganon once and for all. She sat in stunnedsilence throughout all he said, and when he finally did finish, her eyes were wide, and she shook her head.

"You are incredible, Link. My dear Link," she said softly. "You've been through so much."

"It was worth it," he said firmly. Hyrule was worth it. Life was worth it. Zelda was worth it.

"You are the bravest of men," she continued. "I'm just glad I am able to help in some small way…"

"You help more than you can know," he said earnestly, looking into her eyes. "I don't know what we would do without you…"

"So," she said, after a pause. "Princess Zelda. What is she going to do now?"

Link had not told Malon of his feelings for Zelda yet. He was hesitant to, for some reason. "Ihaven't really thought of that," he said, thinking. "I suppose once the mess in Hyrule is cleared up,she can take the throne." She was to be Queen. She would be busy and important, and shouldhave no business loving a simple warrior boy. He sighed, his brow furrowing. What was he goingto do after all this? He couldn't imagine his life without Zelda now.

Malon's eyes drifted to the floor. "Do you…care about her, Link? I mean... a lot?"

He nodded to her, noticing the way she let her hair fall across her face, and the way her eyes didn'tmeet his. "We became friends very quickly," he said. "And added to that, my mission at first wasto rescue her- I had to watch out for her." He chuckled. "Although, she really is more than capableof taking care of herself."

Malon smiled, but Link noticed that she looked a little sad. He furrowed his eyebrows, searchingher pretty face. "Malon?" he asked softly.

She looked away for a moment, then quickly turned her face back to him and smiled sweetly. "Yes,Link?"

"Is there anything…wrong?"



"No," she said quietly, sighing softly. She stood from the table, fingering her dress. "You shouldget to bed, Link. I gave Zelda your old room…so…anywhere you want to, I suppose, you cansleep."

Link stood as well. "I'll keep Epona company," he said, flashing her a smile.

~~~

As Malon shut the door to her room, she leaned against it and closed her eyes. She had been sohappy to see Link return, for all the time he was gone she worried constantly for him. She knew it

was very possible she would never see him again. And then when she saw him…it all was perfect.His blue eyes were so bright, though weary. His face, though lined with burdens, was ashandsome and beautiful as it ever had been. His clothes were torn, dirty, and blood stained. He

was a hero. Her hero.

But then she saw Zelda. The girl was dressed in Link's blue tunic, her blonde braid matted anddirt stained. Her face was pale, and she seemed weary beyond words; weary beyond physicaltiredness. But she was still the most lovely girl Malon had ever seen. She looked about Malon's

own age, and it was clear that she and Link had become close during their short time together.She pressed her fist to her heart, closing her eyes, and wondered how close.

Part Five: Chapter Two

Link cracked open the door of the bedroom and peered in, seeing how the new sunlight floodedthe small room. The beams of light shone through the wispy white drapes and made the woodenfloor gleam like honey, but his eyes were rather drawn to the slender sleeping figure of Zelda,nestled deep into her bedcovers.

He crept silently into the room and knelt beside the bed, drawing back the covers so her face was visible. It was peaceful, an expression he could not really remember her ever wearing before. Shemade a soft moan in the back of her throat that made his heart leap. A smile curved onto his lips

as her tired eyes fluttered open, instantly meeting his.

She didn't say anything, but smiled back shyly, opening and closing her eyes to blink away the lastof sleep. Drawing her covers up to her chin, she smiled. "Good morning," Zelda said softly.

"You are so beautiful," he said, unable to take his eyes from her perfect face.

Her eyebrows flew up in amusement and she chuckled. "You are a strange boy," she said, leaningforward to gently kiss his cheek. "And I love you more than the world," she added, in a softer tone.

Why? he wanted to ask, but she sat up. Pushing her hair back, her eyes twinkled at Link. "Now, if you please, I'd like to make myself presentable. Run along and bid good morning to your friend, if you haven't already."

"Malon's probably in the pasture," he said, knowing it was her morning time habit.

Zelda's blue eyes searched his face, and she looked less jovial than before. Pursing her lipsslightly, she nodded, moving her gaze to the floor. "You and Malon are good friends, I take it," shesaid.

"I met her when I was just a boy," he said with a smile. "She lent me Epona." When she didn't say anything in response, Link sat next to her on the bed and took her hand. "What is it?" he asked.



"I shouldn't assume anything…" There was a pause. "She seems like she is in love with you, Link. Icould see it in her eyes. If she could see the same feeling in your eyes, I am probably not a very

welcome visitor here."

"Malon and her father have always welcomed me," he said, hoping he hadn't turned red at her words. "Any friend of mine is a friend of theirs. Malon was more than happy to help us." Thetrouble was, he was beginning to agree with Zelda about Malon. But she hadn't changed sinceLink had left on his journey…he had changed. He had felt something for Malon before, and hadalmost thought it to be love. He did love Malon, and always would. But he was in love with Zelda,and always would be.

~~~

Malon looked up as she heard the shuffling of leather boots against the dirt ground in thestillness of the warm morning. She smiled as she saw it was Link. Putting her brush down andgiving the horse a pat on the back, she sent it away and waited for Link to come over to her.

"Did you sleep well?" she asked brightly.

He nodded with a smile, sitting down on the ground next to her stool. "Very well. I almost envy Epona."

She laughed. "What about the Princess? Is she awake yet?"

"Yes," he said simply, his eyes darting to the ground.

There was a silence as Malon listened to the sounds of the morning. The birds were twittering, thehorses were eating and murmuring to themselves. Her father was probably making breakfast. "Imissed you," she said at last.

She saw him look with a slight smile into her eyes. "I'm glad to be back," he said. "I'm glad to see you again." She saw something in his face that she couldn't quite decipher. But she would risk more.

"You know," she said, her voice trembling a little. "I thought of you so much when you were gone."

The corners of his mouth turned up. "I thought of you too. I often wished I was back on LakeHylia, swimming with you." His eyes were twinkling playfully, and they set her at ease.

"I was always afraid something was going to happen to you," she admitted. "I care for you somuch Link, I don't know what I would do if I lost you."

He smiled sweetly and took her hands, pressing them to his forehead. "You are one of my bestfriends, Malon," he said tenderly. "Don't ever forget that. Ever." She nodded, wondering at his sadeyes.

~~~

Link and Malon walked into the house as the sun fully emerged from the horizon where it had been lingering. They heard birds twittering from outside, but inside there was also noise, and lotsof it. Link smiled at the smell of cooking food, and his eyes twinkled with pleasure at the sound of



merry laughter.

Zelda was at the stove with Talon, who was in his nightclothes and large brown boots. What littlehair he had on the sides of his head stuck up in un-brushed tufts, while Zelda was looking quitepresentable with a long blonde braid down her back and wearing a simple white summer dress, itsshort sleeves embroidered with bold, blue Hylian letters, with an orange handkerchief about hershoulders and clasped in front with a large gold pin. He recognized it, for it was the dress Malonhad worn the day he left Lon-Lon to rescue Zelda.

"Now, now, missy," said Talon, scratching his bald head. "What next?" They had not seemed tonotice the twosome coming in.

Zelda giggled a little, opening the cupboards and poking her head inside. "Sir Talon, I told you before I've never made griddle cakes in my life. I haven't the faintest." She paused. "Perhaps weshould put in an egg or two, though."

Talon nodded soundly. "Yes! An egg or two. Good idea." He grabbed a basket out of the pantry fullof eggs laid just that morning that Malon brought in from the cuckoos. "Malon usually makesthese things, but-"

Malon grinned at Link and shook her head, laughing. "Wait a moment, Papa, you'll need to put inthree of those," she said, running to her father. Talon spun around in surprise and clutched hisdressing gown near his heart.

Malon smiled at Zelda, who was carrying a bag of sugar in one hand, and a tin of flour with theother. "I'm so glad it fits!" she exclaimed, touching the sleeves of the dress with her fingertips. "Itlooks beautiful on you."

Zelda returned the smile appreciatively, nodding her head. "Thank you so much. The otherclothes really needed a washing."

Link came over to them and gave Talon a quick handshake and a few words of greeting. Afteranswering a few simple and straightforward questions about his journey, Malon pulled her fatheraside and explained to him the rest of the ingredients that were needed to finish the griddle cakes.Link turned to Zelda, who pushed a wisp of fair hair behind her ear and smiled. He stepped closerto her and put his arm about her waist, kissing her temple. "You're beautiful."

"You already told me once this morning!" she laughed, feeling at ease with his arm around her.

Link gave a wry smile. "An old man and a princess trying to cook breakfast. That's something I'lllikely never see again." He looked back at Talon and Malon, and Malon looked up at him andsmiled. It was the kind of smile that close friends could give each other, a smile of mutualamusement. But the smile faded quickly into a nervous smile and her eyes darted away when shenoticed his arm around Zelda.

Zelda, sensing what had just happened, stepped away from Link. Link looked back at her as shepreoccupied herself with replacing objects in the pantry. It was strange seeing her in Malon'sclothing. He had seen Malon wear that dress so many times, and now…

"So, Link," said Talon, finally resigning the stove to his daughter. "Who is this little lady-friend you brought with you? No doubt a damsel in distress you rescued from one of your adventures,eh?" he chuckled. "She's a handsome thing."

The corner of Link's mouth tipped up, realizing that Zelda probably hadn't properly introducedherself to Talon. Link nodded once to Talon, then to Zelda. "Talon, this is Princess Zelda. Zelda,this is my good friend Talon."



Talon's eyebrows flew up in surprise and he threw his hands up in the air. "Oh! Oh! Princess is it? And no one bothers to tell me 'til now. Just fine. Well, madam," he said, taking her hand in bothof his and making a series of short awkward bows. "It truly is my pleasure to make your-"

"The pleasure's all mine," Zelda interrupted, shaking his hand and smiling. "Link has told me somuch about you both, I am honored to finally meet you."

Talon's round face beamed with bashful pleasure, then nodded to Link. "It's good to see you alive, boy. It's been too long since this land was peaceful- and you're always the one they call to sortthings out," he said, shrugging.

Zelda smiled fondly at Link. "That's because he's our Hero. Hyrule has never seen anything likehim."

"That's true," Malon piped in, smiling a little sadly. "Never was there a child so brave and bold asLink was when I met him."

Link smiled coyly, raising his eyebrow at Malon playfully. "Ah yes, Epona, the cuckoos, andeveryone else on this ranch instantly loved me, eh?"

Malon laughed, shoving Link's shoulder. "Everyone loves you," she said. "They can't helpthemselves." Her gaze met Zelda's for a moment, the Princess' clear blue eyes gazing directly intohers with an honest look. Malon's heart sank, but she smiled, her head ruling over her emotions.They both loved Link, but Link did not love them both…at least, not the way he loved the

beautiful, blonde Zelda.

Link took Malon's hand and kissed it, his eyes twinkling. He rested his other hand on the small of Zelda's back. He had the people he loved most in the world with him; he was so grateful. It wastrue what Talon had said. Whenever Hyrule had been in trouble, Link was the one they calledupon to make things right. But now that Ganon was defeated once and for all, it would become aland of peace once more- at least…for now. Evil would always rise up from one place or another,and he vowed to himself he would always be there.

Part Five: Chapter Three

Link stood in the doorway of the grand throne room as Zelda cried out happily and ran into hernurse's arms. Tears slipped down Impa's face as she held her nursling close, hugging her tightly.They whispered a few words together in the Sheikah tongue, and Link felt satisfied. He had donehis duty to Hyrule, and now all would be right.

He remained standing in the shadows of the grand double doors while Zelda was greeted by allthe remaining palace staff and residents. The repairs on the grand castle were going nicely, andeveryone's spirits had been restored now that they knew their Princess was safe and home. Link

would have guessed that Zelda had forgotten his presence, save for the occasional glace and smileshe gave him.

Before he could speak to her again, she was promptly ushered from the room and a soldier cameup to him, saying that the Princess had requested he stay the night in the palace, and gave himdirections to the room he was to occupy. Link consented gladly, and went to his room straightaway. He was tired after their long ride from Lon-Lon to Hyrule City, and he was sure Zelda wastoo. However, he guessed that she would get little rest tonight. She would be up with her advisorsand staff re-telling the story of Ganon's defeat, and sorting out matters of the Kingdom. She

would soon take her place as the new Queen.

~~~



Link stood next to the window, peering through the drapes at the sun as it slowly rose. Thegolden beams stretched across the land, flooding Hyrule with its light and warmth. Another day had begun. He felt strangely empty inside. Before, when he had risen, it was another day to look forward to. Another day to continue his journey, his quest. Another day to wake from lying in thedust and opening his eyes to look on Zelda's sleeping face. But he was devoid of that feeling now.It was as though his life had lost purpose. He had always sacrificed his very being, up until now, inHyrule's defense. Now Ganon was gone. Now he had to find a life for himself.

There was a soft knock on his door, quickly followed by a gentle voice. "Are you awake, Link?"

He smiled, turning away from the window. "Come in," he answered.

Zelda turned the knob and stepped into the room, smiling at him. He barely recognized her. She was dressed in a slim and intricately embroidered pale blue gown with golden tassels and trim.Her golden headpiece now sat upon her brow, and a new and bright sapphire had been put on toreplace the old one, which now rested in a safe place, along with the Kokiri Emerald, and the Ruby Ganon had possessed. Her blue eyes sparkled brighter, though.

"Did you sleep well?" she asked, stepping closer to him and folding her hands neatly in front of her.

"Yes," Link replied, awed as he looked her over. "Oh Zelda," he said softly, his voice coming outraspy as his heart filled with love for her. "You look like a Queen. You look…beautiful."

She smiled bashfully and her gaze flickered across the floor. "Thank you. It's going to be strange,"she said, meeting his eyes. "I've never really been in charge of anything before. Now I have somuch responsibility…"

Link stepped forward and took both her hands, her skin silky soft and clean- no longer dusty fromtheir travels. "You are the wisest, bravest girl I know," he said, smiling confidently. "There is noone more fit to govern Fair Hyrule…" he drew her closer to him and cupped her face, breathing inher scent, "…than Fair Zelda."

Zelda's face brightened a little, and rested her head on his shoulder as she leaned into his arms.Link smiled softly as he put her chin up and kissed her gently.

"Link," Zelda said, placing her hands on his shoulders. Her voice was lower and more timid thanit had been. "I don't think I can rule this land by myself…I…" She paused, looking straight into hiseyes. "I would like it very much if you stayed here, in the palace…with me."

"Zelda…" Link started, stepping back from her.

Her eyes filled with apprehension. "You could marry me. Would you like that, Link?"

Link sighed and ran his hand through his blonde hair. He would love that. He would lovespending the rest of his days with the girl he was so in love with…but he remembered Saria. TheKokiris. Malon. Talon. They would need protecting. Hyrule would need a protector. Ganon wasgone…but evil would always remain in the world. He looked at Zelda sadly and her eyes filled withtears. She looked away from him, but he could see she understood.

"You are young," he said, his voice breaking the silence. "You have your whole life ahead of you."

"I want to spend my life with you, Link," she replied softly.

He could feel himself melting inside to see her so sad, to hear her voice breaking with tears. "I



know," he said. "I love you. But right now I cannot marry you. You may not realize the drasticchanges your life will have."

"But-"

"Please," he said firmly. "Listen to me. I will never be out of your life. You are going to see me allthe time. I will be your servant, you will be my Queen." He looked down at the sheathed sword

which lay quietly on the floor. "My duty to this country will never end, Zelda," he said quietly."Just know that I will always love you."

Epilogue

Zelda tucked a strand of hair behind her ear and slowed her walk to gaze out the open window.Her blue eyes scanned the landscape.

"My Queen!" someone called.

She spun around to face the advisor she had been speaking with, smiling sheepishly. "Oh...I'msorry. Forgive me."

The advisor smiled knowingly, also peering out the window. "I know you are a little distracted asof late, your highness. But please, try to focus. The celebration is only a few days away."

Zelda frowned a little, looking out over the vast Hyrule plains as far as her eyes could see. "Iknow," she said softly. Blinking, she faced the man with an air of business and concern. "Hasn't it

been a while since we heard from-"

"My lady," he interjected, laying his hand on her shoulder. "He will come. Don't worry."

~~~

Hugging her shawl around her, Zelda held her gaze on the green grass under her feet. The littleflowers of spring were just popping out. As she looked listlessly up into the blue sky the blustery wind tossed her loose blonde hair every which way, and she sighed distractedly. She was afraid he was not going to come.

"Surprise." Zelda gasped as a strong pair of arms slipped around her waist from behind her, and aplayful voice sounded in her ear.

She spun around to face the speaker. "You came!" she cried happily, throwing her arms aroundLink's neck.

He took her face and kissed her quickly, smiling coyly at her. "Of course I came. I wouldn't missthis party for the world. Besides, I had to deliver your birthday present," he added, with a twinklein his eye. "I don't trust the mail."

She laughed, pushing his wind swept hair back from his face. "Oh, yes, I'm getting old aren't I?"

He nodded solemnly. "Why, I barely remember when I was nineteen!" he cried.

"Oh hush," she giggled. She smiled happily and looking toward the palace. They resumed walking,side by side. Zelda was glad. She hadn't seen Link in months. Whenever he went on one of hislong journeys she felt empty and distracted. For nearly three years now he had been in loyalservice to Hyrule and herself. Whenever there was even a vague threat to the land he immediately



went off to check things out. They had both grown much since Ganon's defeat, years ago.

This time Link had been away for an especially long time. It had been more than half a year sincehe had been to Hyrule Castletown. But hadn't told her what exactly the reason was for hisdeparture. She trusted him, however, and still loved him with all her heart.

When they reached the drawbridge leading into the city, Link took her hand and turned her toface him. She smiled as she looked into his blue eyes. "Zelda..." he said, looking a little hesitant."How do you like your life these days?"

She looked at him quizzically. "It's fine," she replied. Then smiled sweetly at him. "It's a thousandtimes better when you're with me."

His mouth turned up at her words, and his eyes gleamed. "Then you love me?" he asked.

"Of course!" she cried. "Did you have to ask?"

"Just checking," he laughed, cupping one hand against her face. "Would you terribly mind achange?" he asked.

"What kind of change?"

"Well," he replied slowly. "You'd have to trust me."

"I do," she said.

"I was hoping you would say that…" he whispered, drawing something from his pocket. He took her hand and slipped a ring onto a finger of her left hand. Her eyes widened as she looked at it. It

was gold, and had three tiny jewels set on top. One was a bright green emerald, one was a dazzling blue sapphire, and one was a blood red ruby.

Looking up into his face, Zelda's eyes filled with tears and she wrapped her arms about his neck,loving the feel of his arms about her waist. "I do love you Link. I always will."

"Would you want to be the wife of a wandering warrior?"

She smiled, leaning up and kissing him soundly. "I would do anything for this wandering warrior."

"But," he replied. "I can't live with you in the palace all the time, you know. I have to protect thisland. I'm not going to let another Ganon come along."

"I know," she said, leaning her head on his shoulder. "I shan't have you stop being what you are."

They walked back to the palace in silence, and Zelda held tightly to Link's hand the whole way.

They were married soon. Link never became a king. Zelda remained a queen, ruling steadfastly over her people, whom she loved. But Hyrule was always protected, and no great evil ever came toreign again. For a young man dressed in Kokiri green patrolled the lands and borders of Hyrule,and he was the most skilled swordsman that the world had ever seen. He had defeated the Dark Lord Ganondorf, and carried the Master Sword on his hip. Just as it had been told in the Legendof Zelda.



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