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Chapter Text

Over. It was over. It was about time, that much is certain...

For almost a week, the citizens of Hyrule Castle Town celebrated the victory over Ganondorf and his reign of terror, albeit it was a short but no less terrible reign. Apparently the people were unaware of the true extent of Twilight War, but it didn't matter. It was finally over, and that was the most important thing. The castle was in ruins, and rebuilding would be difficult and expensive. Link had no desire to celebrate, and he hadn't experienced any major festivities before, apart from the obligatory celebrations of Ordon Village. Link was simply incredibly tired and exhausted, and so he used these conditions as an excuse to prevent a celebration in his honor. Instead, he spent most of his free time in the small room in one of the intact outer castle towers. Naturally, he also took advantage of the opportunity to bathe daily, a luxury that had previously been foreign to him. Not that he didn't value personal hygiene, but there was a huge difference between a bath in cold water with simple soap and a bath in hot water with various bath additives and oils. A few days later, after most of his pain had subsided, he went to the royal tailors to have a new set of clothes made. It was Hylian style though, and something new for him for he had worn Ordon styled clothes for as long as he could think. He was always quite muscular due to his job as a goat herder, but his muscles grew in size, not least due to the numerous fights. Also, it turned out that he had actually grown a little in body height, even if only a few inches. Maybe he was a late bloomer, after all. He was merely a tot compared to practically any other adult, yet he saved Hyrule and its people. He saved the Twilight Realm and its people, and that was all that mattered in the end. However, Link gave the Hero's Tunic in Zelda's care since he had no intention of returning home in the green tunic. He didn't mind wearing it at all, yet it was an omnipresent reminder of his destiny, and his – luckily fulfilled – duty as The Chosen Hero. Sure, he was chosen by the gods, and all of a sudden he was dragged into a war between the Light World and the Twilight Realm. As if anyone asked me for that...

During his journey the young hero wasn't alone though. He had Midna by his side, Crown Princess and rightful ruler of the Twilight Realm. Despite their initial differences and the short time they spent together, they became true friends, fighting side-by-side. But their farewell after the final battle against Ganondorf was... well, he couldn't even put it into words at first. She destroyed the Mirror of Twilight, the only gateway to her home. Did she want to prevent such a war from happening again one day? Or did she do it because she loved him and was afraid of her own emotions if he visited her one day in the future? However, Link tried to ignore the fact that Midna developed feelings for him at some point of their journey. Was it because he brought her to Zelda when her life was stake? Was it because he saved her realm? He couldn't tell.

After all, the Twilight Princess was a dear friend for Link and his heart already belonged to someone else. A certain someone he'd most likely see again in a few days, and the mere thought of it caused a strange feeling in his stomach. What was different? What triggered his feelings for her to become even stronger? Perhaps the entire journey fundamentally changed him. The dangers he was evermore exposed to. The constant fear that she might have died after her abduction. Perhaps he would find out sooner or later, but probably sooner. He spent one final night in the little chamber in the castle tower and decided to return to Ordon Village as soon as he woke up and said his good-byes. The Hylian hoped for a peaceful night though, and due to the many battles he fought and the few sleep and rest he got in exchange, he was sure his wish would be granted. In fact, he fell asleep quite fast, and at first he had no dreams or nightmares.

In his dream Link saw ruins, smoke and dust. He couldn't tell where or when he was. According to its conditions, there must have been a battle or something like that. The sharp wind howling through the alleys. He couldn't tell. Yet he could make out a strange feeling. Solitude. He felt alone. Abandoned. Left behind. Link took a closer look and made a few steps. The cobblestones suggested that he wasn't walking through a village or a settlement. It felt like it was a town. It felt real. As if he was actually right there where he was. Was it Hyrule Castle Town? Or a completely different place he haven't seen before? Or perhaps it wasn't a real town at all, but a simple bizarre imagination of his own mind...

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Link woke up, his whole body covered in sweat. He'd definitely take another bath before returning to Ordon Village. Were these memories from Twilight War? He heard of soldiers being traumatized after wars. Nightmares. Tremors. Panic attacks. Emotional damage. Men who never were the same afterwards. Men who killed other people. Men who saw other people die right before their eyes. Men who commited suicide, even decades after coming home. Link had to admit he's actually seen and done horrible things. Hurting and even killing creatures like those Twili people who were turned into monsters by Zant's evil power. He didn't even know that the shadow monsters were actual people in the first place. People of the Twilight Realm, infecting both monsters and humans of the light world, turning them into shadow beasts. Link looked at his palms and their backs. At the Triforce emblem. No shaking. Thinking about being turned into a wolf didn't cause any hyperventilating. Yet. Nonetheless all these things might occur in the long-term, and he should keep that in mind. I should talk to Rusl about that...

After another bath Link met with Zelda and Shad to say goodbye to them. The princess emphasized that he was welcome anytime at Hyrule Castle. Perhaps he would take up the offer once the castle has been fully restored. After leaving the castle, the young hero decided to visit Telma for a proper farewell, too. She provided her support a safe space for the resistance, and – last but not least – took good care of Ilia and Ralis, Crown Prince of the Zora when they were in need. Ilia.

Thinking of her made his heart skip a beat. When she regained her memory he realized once again that he wanted to be a more important part of her life, and he admitted to himself that he unconsciously hoped for quite a while that their friendship would progress to something past that. Link has had a crush for Ilia since he was fifteen, yet he was too shy and too afraid to take the first step. Plus, he wanted to stay on good terms with her father, just in case he would mess things up. And the young hero clearly didn't want to mess with Bo – he was the mayor, after all. However, taking the first step meant he actually had to jump over his own shadow and talk to her about it. Easier said than done. Link snorted. He was pulled into a war and seized a destiny he never asked for. He has been turned into a wolf and thrown in jail shortly after, he fought King Bulblin several times, he had sumo fights against a few gorons, he crossed Gerudo Desert to fight the undead and a giant skeleton, he crossed Snowpeak to fight a crazy yeti woman. He travelled to a city above the clouds to save some strange bird-like people from a freaking dragon!

And yet the hardest task he'd ever face was talking to the girl he was smitten with for years. He always thought she was pretty and despite her bossy attitude kind of cute and caring – especially caring for him and Epona – and he thought about kissing her sometimes. But he didn't because he was afraid she would punch him or something. Link laughed to himself. It would be a kiss after all... so why not giving it a try?

Eventually the young man arrived at Telma's bar. She was cleaning one of the tables when he approached. The barkeeper looked up and smiled broadly, hanging the rag she was using over her shoulder. „Well, well, well, who do we have here? Hey there, honey,“ Telma crossed her arms „I barely recognized you without that green tunic and funny sock hat. You look like you're on your way. Returning to Ordon Village again? I told you, Hyrule could use talented young swordsmen like you. Or does it have a specific reason why you're so eager to go back home?“ she smirked and raised one of her thin eyebrows. Link tried not to blush. He's always been too easy to read. Something he had to work on.

„Yeah, perhaps there might be one specific reason why. You happy now?“ Link sighed slightly annoyed.

„I knew it,“ she snapped her finger „nothing passes good old Telma. Especially when it comes to her favourite and adorable little lovebirds,“ she winked and laughed out loud. Now was the moment when Link's face went deep red, which made Telma even laugh louder. Lovebirds?

„Come on, I'm just teasing you! Good, ol' Telma here could tell you were hopelessly smitten with that girl, right the moment you entered my little bar. And that was not one-sided, that much is clear. I had a couple talks with Ilia when we were in Kakariko Village, you know?“ she smirked again and arched an eyebrow.

„What? What, uh... what did she... say?“ Link stammered and cleared his throat. Yeah, try that again, idiot...

That means he already had a special place in her heart before she could even remember him a few weeks later. He had to suppress a broad smile, yet it didn't mean it was easier for him. Thinking about it made his heart sink, even though it warmed it. And his face, of course. He mentally kicked himself.

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„No, honey, I will not say a single word. You have to win her over all on your own without any advantages,“ Telma tried to keep a straight face when she put both her hands on his shoulders, and Link felt a little uncomfortable around her revealing clothing „I know you can do it. If you can be the pretty and charming Hero of Hyrule you surely can be the pretty and charming Hero of your girl and tell her how you feel about her. Easy thing, don't worry your head about it, handsome.“ Yeah, right. Easy thing. Sure.

„She's not my...“ Link tried to defend himself and clearly failed „nevermind,“ he sighed as he shook his head „see you soon, Telma. It was nice talking to you. And thanks for everything.“ Apart from your comments.

„It was my pleasure. Please don't be a stranger and visit me sometime, honey. You know, you're always welcome,“ she said warmly before the young man could turn around to leave „and one more thing, young man,“ Link stopped and tended to the barkeeper again „I expect an invitation to your wedding, alright?“

He turned around again before he blushed and waved. Telma clapped enthusiastically and burst into laughter again. What's the matter with her? And what's the matter with me?!

Link made his way to the southern gate of Castle Town to fetch Epona. On the one hand he really wanted to turn back home. On the other hand he had to deal with confessing his feelings to Ilia. I can do it... maybe

Whilst steering Epona towards the lush green of Faron Woods, the young hero thought about the strange dream he had the previous night. Or was it a nightmare? He wasn't scared or whatsoever, yet he felt an eerie atmosphere. As if there was no other living being except for him, yet he panicked and woke up abruptly, breathing heavily, covered in cold sweat. The latter has never happened before. Sure, he had some nightmares from time to time, and it was nothing to worry about. When he was a kid he had Uli and Rusl to comfort him from his bad dreams. After reviewing the last weeks Link realized that during his task he never really slept properly, let alone in a bed. Mostly he slept out in the wilderness with one eye open, or he asked Midna to turn him into a wolf after he gained the ability to switch between human and wolf whenever he wished to. However, the young hero looked forward to sleep in his own bed again, and he knew he'll sleep alot for the next days. He also looked forward to proper meals, most likely prepared by Uli. Link never had the ingredients – let alone proper herbs and spices – to cook himself something fancy at home, admittedly he didn't care about it by now. Maybe he should start watching his nutritions since he actually grew a bit during the last few weeks. Growing bones and muscles need proper fuel, and by fuel he clearly didn't think of fruit, goat milk and dry bread. It kept his stomach filled, yet his job at the ranch required alot of energy. In addition, he has generally gotten a bigger appetite, especially in the last year. Probably that was a sign of an impending growth spurt.

After a calm and peaceful ride, the young man and his horse reached Ordona province soon. It finally felt like he was returning home. A feeling that had almost become alien to him due to Twilight War. The sun began to set, and the familiar scent of grass, trees and a hint of hay surrounded them. Still sitting on Epona's back, he stopped by Ordon Spring. Link didn't know what gave him the impression to do so. Maybe it was a key moment within the last few weeks that made him stop by and look at the small, pristine spring – the abduction of Ilia and the children or meeting Ordona, the goat-like patron saint of the province of the same name and one of the four Light Spirits of Hyrule Kingdom. For him, it seemed he left years ago, and the restless, hectic city life of Castle Town has almost vanished from his thoughts. One moment he was just an ordinary goat herder, the next moment he was literally pulled into an ongoing war between two worlds. A war that gave him the chance to meet new people all over the kingdom and beyond, to become friends with the Zoras and the Gorons. A war that revealed him as the descendant of the Legendary Hero. A war that made him become a legend himself. However, for now Link just wanted to leave all of this behind and return to the carefree life he had before Rusl asked him to deliver a sword and shield to Hyrule Castle. For now, all he wanted was to go home and spend time with his loved ones again. And deal with other things...

A few moments later the young hero entered the small area in front of his house. For a second, he considered just going into the house and jumping into bed. However, it would probably be unfair to the other residents. Link decided to say hi to everyone at least and then go back home and jump into bed. Sounded like a less rude plan. Sort of. Still sitting on Epona's back, he rode past his tree house towards the center of Ordon Village. He was already greeted by shouts, smiles and waving hands. Slowly, Link steered his chestnut mare towards Mayor Bo's house. Yes. It's really good to be home again.

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Once in Ordon village, both of them were warmly welcomed by the other villagers. Link dismounted Epona when Bo came out of his house crossing his arms with a big grin on his face. He went straight to Link and hugged him. A tight hug that practically squeezed the young man, causing him to yelp quietly. The entire crowd – Bo, Rusl, Uli with a newborn in her arms, the kids, their parents and Fado – began to laugh due to the comical situation. Eventually the mayor let go of the young hero, and not even one second after, also Rusl pulled him into a tight hug albeit not the kind of hug Bo gave him before. Rusl gave Link a few pats on his upper back while they hugged. A little lump formed in Link's throat. The blacksmith wasn't just his mentor for years but also some kind of father for him. Always supporting and encouraging, and sometimes (rightly) scolding him when he did something stupid, which did happen a few times over the years.

„Great to see you again, lad. We really missed you. And it is an honor that the great hero of Hyrule lives amongst us – even though he was just a humble goat herder. A rough diamond that needed to be polished!“ The other villagers began to laugh. Link rolled his eyes theatrically and gave an exaggerated sigh.

„Alright, alright... let's move on and forget the fact that I wielded the Master Sword and cleared a couple temples and beat up some meanies and saved the kids and Ilia...“ he enumerated. Wait. Ilia... where is she?

„A great occasion for a feast in the great hero's honor, don't you think?“, the mayor laughed.

„To be honest, I'd rather go to bed now...“ he yawned „what about tomorrow? After work of course...“

„Silly old me, lad... where are my manners? What about a few days off? You undoubtedly earned it. I'm sure Fado can handle it,“ he looked at the other goat herder „looks like you have to deal with your work for a few more days,“ Fado shrugged and agreed, and Bo looked at the young hero again „See? Now go and get some rest, you've earned it,“ he said patting Link's head as if he was a little boy. Link smiled and thanked him for his understanding. After the other villagers left to tend to their own businesses, the young man went back to Epona and stopped right there – Ilia stood next to his horse, stroking her mane. Gods, she's pretty...

„I don't want to interrupt your quality time, but Epona and me would like to go to home now. I'm sorry. You can spend some time together tomorrow,“ Link said and chuckled. Ilia flinched slightly and turned around, looking at him with those sparkling green eyes. He could swear she blushed a little.

„I-I'm sorry. You surely should get some rest,“ she stammered and handed Epona's reins over to Link, averting her eyes. He took them and watched Ilia leave. The young man quickly looked around and made sure no one else would watch them. He realized he didn't care though. Alright, let's go all in... kind of...

„Wait...“ Link said softly, causing Ilia to turn around quite fast „I think I've earned at least a little welcome hug from you, didn't I? Don't you dare just walking away like this...“ he smirked and mentally prepared for the punishment. That she'd laugh at him. Or stomp over and punch or slap him. Or completely ignore him. He didn't care about that either. Ilia gave him a small smile and she definitely blushed. Clasping her hands behind her back she approached him slightly as she tilted her head.

„You're right, you've earned it,“ the mayors' daughter came closer and wrapped her arms around his middle. She hugged him and rested her head on his shoulder. Link took a deep breath, inhaling her scent. Perfect.

The young hero didn't care for how long they stood there or if anyone watched them. She was warm, she was soft, and she was here, hugging him. It was more than he hoped for right now and he cherished this moment to the fullest. Considering how to hug her back he decided to embrace her middle as well. It had to be a decent hug, yet his mind thought about putting his hands on her waist or her lower back and pulling her into a deep, tender kiss. But not today. Probably not tomorrow either. One day perhaps...

„Welcome home, Mr Hero,“ she chuckled quietly and nestled her head between his clavicles and his shoulders. Link hoped she wouldn't hear his racing heart beat. And yes, it took a lot of restraint not pressing his lips on hers. It still wasn't the right time for that, so he played along instead. Dammit.

„Stop it...“ he chuckled „you know I hate that famous-hero-stuff... it's bad enough the postman calls me like this, so let's just keep it that way. No Mr Hero, no Legendary Hero, and absolutely not The Chosen One.“

„Really? Few minutes ago you bragged about your heroic deeds, like beating up some meanies,“ she mimicked him with a smirk.

„You heard that?“ he asked quietly „now that you mention it, it did sound like bragging around...“

„I have good ears,“ Ilia slowly let go of him „so be careful of what you say when I'm around, okay?“

Then she did something he never expected her to do. She placed her palms on his chest and gave him a quick peck on his cheek. After that the young woman gave him a little smile and turned around, leaving a very perplexed Link behind. I had the chance to kiss her back and I didn't. Call me 'Mr Idiot'...

The young man turned around as well to go home, and he had a broad smile on his face.

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After climbing all the ladders to his bed without even undressing himself, just looking forward to have a proper rest in a proper bed in a proper home. Eat, sleep, repeat. This was his last thought and his only hope before he fell into a deep sleep.

In his dream, a little boy at the age of five or six stood in front of Link in a white room. Since that boy had his back on him, the young man couldn't see his face. He had the same tousled, dark-blonde hair like he had.

He walked around and knelt before the boy, taking a closer look on him. The boy had deep-blue eyes, the same deep-blue eyes Link had. The child wasn't just some child. That boy was Link's younger self. The young man gasped in shock and fell on his back. The boy looked directly in Link's eyes, as if he was real.

„I want to go home...“ young Link started crying and wiped his eyes „but I can't. My home is destroyed and... and...“ he sobbed „my mommy and daddy... they are gone. Th-they were killed, I'm alone... alone...“

Adult Link got back on his knees and spread his arms. It hurt him seeing a kid cry, and he wanted to comfort the boy who appeared as a younger version of himself, even though he couldn't help him in that moment.

„Come here, buddy...“ adult Link offered his younger self a hug. Young Link practically threw himself into adult Link's arms and cried into his shoulder. He could feel the tears through his shirt. This dream became weirder and weirder by any second. No child should feel like this...

Link woke up suddenly. He was sitting upright in his bed, still wearing his shirt and pants. The hero couldn't help but ask himself what happened to his biological parents. Uli and Rusl weren't his real parents, of course. Still, Link loved them and could never imagine a better family. In fact, neither he remembered his mother and father, nor questioned why he didn't remember any of his life before he came to Ordon Village. How and why he arrived. He was happy, he felt safe and he felt loved, and nothing else mattered to him.

Yet for some reason he didn't understand it seemed there was something or perhaps someone that wanted him to learn about his past. About his heritage. About the truth. Why now? Why those dreams?

Moaning due to his enormous pain, Link looked out the window. The broad daylight made his eyes hurt. But he knew he had to leave his home eventually today since he had nothing to eat there. And he was starving.

Link descended the ladders to his living room, and he saw a brand new set of traditional Ordonian clothes neatly folded on the table. He scratched his head. These clothes definitely weren't there the evening before. But he slept approximately more than twelve hours, and perhaps someone entered his house while he was half-dead in his bed upstairs. Link took a closer look at the shirt. Due to the style and the way the seams were sewed, it looked like Uli made him something to wear. A lump formed in his throat.

Uli was busy enough with her newborn child, and yet she had the time to sew. Link planned to visit her and Rusl first in the morning anyway. Or midday. I really slept alot...

He dressed up and left his house. Usually he jumped down the little porch, but due to his pain he chose the ladder instead. After greeting Epona he went straight to the home of his foster parents.

Link knocked at the door of Rusl's and Uli's home. The blacksmith opened up and watched the young hero with a concerned face.

„Good morning, sleepyhead! Don't get me wrong, but you look terrible“, he said looking at Link's tousled hair. Link didn't look in the mirror before, but he could tell Rusl wasn't lying. He felt terrible, too.

„Good morning and thanks for the compliment. I just woke up and jumped into these new clothes that lay on my table. I know it wasn't magic, so I guess it's Uli's work, isn't it?“

„That's right. She did the work and I lay them on your table. You were snoring. Badly,“ Rusl chuckled.

„Really?" the Hylian groaned and ran a hand through his hair "I had to catch up on sleep, and I doze off right away yesterday. It must have been at least twelve hours. And I still feel tired. My whole body hurts too. And I'm hungry,“ Link gave him a wry smile.

„I only can imagine. A young man your age needs alot of food, and you've always been a heavy eater. Bo was here a couple minutes ago and asked me to tell you that he wanted to invite you for breakfast. Uli is breastfeeding our little girl, so we can catch up later. Go and eat something, alright?“ Rusl asked. Link smiled and left, making his way to the mayors' home. Bo's cooking skills were surprisingly great and the young man really looked forward to his food. On his way he wondered about what the mayor had in store for him and his nearly empty stomach. He put his hand on his belly. I hope it's ready... my tummy starts rumbling.

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Bo prepared the meal when Link entered his home. Scrambled eggs and sourdough bread with goat cheese. A proper meal for... weeks. They talked about Link's journey the whole morning, and the young man had to pull himself together not inhaling his breakfast right away. After about half an hour Ilia came in. She probably didn't see him at first since her father stood in front of Link. She sniffed and sighed.

„Father, how many times do I have to tell you to watch your cholesterol? You can't have eggs all the time,“ she groaned with a reproachful with a tad of bossy tone in her voice. Some things never change. Link cleared his throat soundly, causing Ilia to wince a little.

„Oh, uhm... good morning to you, too,“ the mayor's daughter responded, blushing a little.

„I don't remember you saying 'good morning' to me, dear,“ Bo grumbled. She gave him an annoyed look and prepared herself a slice of bread with cheese.

„Sorry I left for work at the ranch and did something useful while you slept soundly,“ his daughter replied sarcastically „your snoring has gotten worse over time.“ Bo groaned and looked at Link.

„It's about time you take back your former job. Working at the farm doesn't seem to do her any good...“

Rolling her eyes, Ilia took her breakfast and joined the two men at the table. She gave Link a short glance.

„You look terrible,“ she nagged „did you even look in the mirror before you left your house?“

„Don't be rude, Ilia,“ Bo replied in a slightly scolding tone „where are your manners?“

„She's not wrong. And no, I didn't take a look in the mirror, and Rusl also told me I look terrible, so I'm absolutely fine with it,“ Link looked at Ilia „what about a little indulgence for Mr Hero?“ he smirked. Ilia made a grumpy face and blushed again. Luckily her father didn't notice it. Cute, even when she's cranky.

„Yeah. Whatever,“ she lowered her head and tended to her father after she regained her composure „by the way, I'll write a letter for Renado, asking for medical literature. Maybe I can cure your terrible snoring,“ Ilia changed the subject. The mayor grumbled and shook his head in disbelief.

„What's the deal with your mood today, dear? Wait... is it that time of the month again?“ Bo asked.

„No, it's not and I'm out of here. Have fun,“ Ilia took her half-eaten breakfast and went to her room upstairs.

„Son, may the goddesses never bless you with daughters...“ He turned around to talk to Link again.

Link stopped chewing for a few seconds. He never thought of having daughters before, or even children in general. Being eighteen years old was a bit too young in his opinion. Yet thinking about children reminded him of his dream the previous night. The boy who appeared as his own self at the age of five, crying over his dead parents. Maybe he should ask the mayor about them; perhaps he did know more than he let on. Link's first memory was when he stood in front of Bo's home thirteen years ago. On the other hand... why should he keep any secrets from the young Hylian regarding his heritage or his childhood?

„So? What do you think, feast tonight? I know, you don't like big festivities. But... I mean, you're back. You saved Hyrule Kingdom, you saved the kids, you saved my daughter... a feast in your honor would be the least we could do for you. You don't even have to hold a speech or something. Maybe telling something about your journey and eating. Mostly eating, if you want,“ Bo smirked. I could let Rusl do the talking...

„If it means free food for me I'm in. But I can't talk while I'm eating, so you and Rusl have to do this part. Though I don't mind to talk about the people I met and the places I've seen. Could you imagine I was in the mountains of Snowpeak? Or Gerudo Desert?“ Or travelled into the past. Or visited the Twilight Realm.

He'd definitely keep that for himself. By now there were two people who knew about it. Zelda and Midna. Maybe he would tell his fellow villagers about the Temple of Time and the Twilight Realm. Tell them he was transformed into a wolf, guided and accompanied by a cursed Twili woman who appeared as nothing less than the Twilight Princess. Tell them that he came into contact with his predecessor, the Hero of Time. Provided the other Ordonians would believe him. Rusl and Uli would.

„Hear, hear... seems to me you've been around quite a bit, huh? I've seen many parts of Hyrule Kingdom in my prime,“ Bo laughed „I was 30 years younger and twice as many pounds lighter then. Can you believe it?“

„With all due respect, but no, I can hardly imagine,“ the Hylian replied dryly, hoping that the mayor wouldn't take it personally. The mayor chuckled and shook his head as he took Link's empty plate and got up. On his way to the counter the older man ruffled a hand through the goat herders' hair.

„Cheeky as always, lad. Seriously, it's good to have you back. I know Rusl didn't lie yesterday when he said we missed you,“ Bo patted him on the back „why don't you visit the other villagers. There's plenty of time until sunset and my daughter and I have a lot of food to prepare for you,“ he laughed.

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Link went over to Rusl and Uli's place. As expected, their newborn daughter was sound asleep like her mother. He wouldn't dare to blame her – Uli was probably awake the whole night to sew him a new set of the traditional Ordonian clothes, and for some reason she even took into account that he had grown a bit and estimated his height by eye. Plus, there would be more than enough occasions to meet the little girl of his mentor and stepfather. However, Rusl and Colin were training in front of their house. Link approached them carefully since he knew that Colin appeared to be a little clumsy with his wooden sword. Rusl stopped his lesson when he saw the young Hylian, and his son immediately let his sword fall to the ground as he ran over to the young hero to hug him. He was a boy after all, so Link bent down a little to hug him back.

„Are you really back now? I mean really back?“ Rusl's son asked enthusiastically. The Hylian chuckled.

„I hope so. The bad man that caused the war is gone anyway, so I'm sure there will be peace in Hyrule for a looong time,“ Link answered. He wasn't as sure as he sounded. Hyrule Kingdom was weak and fragile. Another crisis would be fatal for the country; a crisis it simply wouldn't survive. Especially Castle Town and the castle itself had to be reconstructed due to Ganondorf's rampage. The young hero didn't mention he killed the him. The children were pulled into war like he was. Yet he was on the edge of adulthood while Colin was just a child like Talo, Malo and Beth were. Too young to be confronted with war and murder. Eventually Rusl joined the two 'brothers' as Colin let go of Link. The blacksmith crossed his arms and looked at his son. He slowly shook his head in artificial disappointment.

„A proper swordsman doesn't just leave his weapon behind. What did I tell you about this?“

„Sorry,“ Colin lowered his head and looked at the ground, clearly embarrassed as his father gave him his wooden sword „the enemy could pick up my weapon and use it against me,“ he answered meekly. The boy turned his head and looked at Link. The young hero gave him a wry smile as he arched his eyebrows.

„He's not wrong. Being unarmed could be a fatal mistake. Better safe than sorry, buddy,“ he ruffled his hand through Colin's hair like Bo did with his mane earlier. The boy grumbled when his father started laughing.

„Do you have any lessons to teach?“ he asked Link. The Hylian shook his head and hesitated.

„No. May I... speak to you in private?“ the young hero came closer as he slightly lowered his voice.

„Sure. Why don't we go to Ordon Spring and talk a little?“

Link told Rusl about his dreams both previous nights before. At first the young hero mentioned the crying little boy – his younger self – he met in his dream who lost his parents.

„I see... and you haven't found out anything about your origins or your... biological parents by now?“

„No, and to be honest, I didn't search for anything at all because I didn't have the need to do so. Until now, at least. I can't shake the feeling that these dreams have an important meaning, especially because they came out of nowhere. The boy was crying, and so I wanted to comfort him. I could feel the tears on my shirt, Rusl. It seemed almost too real to be a dream. Or nightmare. Or whatever,“ Link huffed and shook his head „And now I feel completely ridiculous because I desperately want to know right now what happened before I was five years old. Before I came here. How I got here. Definitely not alone, because I could barely sit upright on my horse's back. Was it my mother who brought me here? Or my father? Or maybe someone completely different that I also don't remember? I don't know what's more frustrating: the fact that I don't remember anything or the fact that I started thinking about it recently,“ the young man sighed.

„Maybe it's similar to Ilia's memory loss. Remembering everything little by little by small things. And eventually remembering you again because of the gift she made did the trick. I talked to Renado about it, among other things, when I picked up the children. To be honest, his opinions and theories sounded quite complicated due to the many medical terminologies. I just nodded and hoped he wouldn't notice,“ Rusl laughed nervously and scratched the back of his head „in my defense, though, we didn't have much time to talk about it. You, on the other hand, could perhaps visit him again. I'm sure he can help you in some way. And I'm also sure Bo and the others will understand. You deserve to know about your past.“

Link nodded. Admittedly, the blacksmith wasn't entirely wrong. It would at least be worth a short trip for the young hero, even if he had just returned. It certainly wouldn't take long. Hopefully. He decided to change the subject by sharing his concerns regarding future mental issues due to Twilight War. As a skilled swordsman himself, Rusl may have some advices for him. He was an Ordonian, yet he had won a few battles in his youth before he settled down with Uli. For now, it would not be particularly wise to reveal too many details. Link was sure his mentor knew more than he let on. Probably one of the many side effects of being part of the Resistance. Yet the young hero asked himself how much exactly Rusl knew about him.

"I don't think you need to worry too much about it. Of course, we can talk about it from time to time. You're still young, and prevention isn't a bad thing. How about keeping a kind of diary about your mood?" Perhaps the idea wasn't so bad after all. Link could even start implementing it right there on his journey. And perhaps Rusl was right and he was overthinking it.

Chapter Text

All preparations had been finished. The whole table at the Mayor's house literally overload with food, desserts and beverages made by the villagers, even one of Ilia's pumpkin pies . When all the villagers finally sat at the table, Link talked about the whole adventure. Being knocked out by King Bulbin at Ordon spring, meeting the children back then in Kakariko village, saving Prince Ralis of the Zora, collecting Ilia's memories back and finally saving Hyrule Kingdom. Travelling to Snowpeak and Gerudo Desert, ascending to the clouds to defeat a dragon. He skipped the part with being transformed into a wolf. This was something he was supposed to keep secret, along with other things he had experienced.

Rusl and Link took turns talking about the Resistance. About the people he met. About the friends he made.

Auru, a scholar of Hyrule Castle in his mid-fifties and former tutor of Princess Zelda with a huge knowledge about Gerudo Desert and Arbiter's Grounds. And a capable fighter as well. He retired from work at Hyrule Castle.

Ashei, a bold knights' daughter at the age of twenty and a great sword fighter who always kept her distance. Not very talkative, yet she proved to be very useful with regard to Snowpeaks.

Shad, another scholar of Hyrule Castle, once an apprentice of Auru. Despite his young age of twenty-four, he had a great general knowledge, and was eager to learn more about the City in the Sky and their population. Also, he preferred the company of books instead of people.

Telma, a bar keeper in her early fourties with good eyes and good ears. She provided Link with important informations she gained from drunken soldiers and eccentric contemporaries. And the most important thing was her will to take care of Ilia and Ralis when they were in need of shelter.

Thinking about all of it made the quest even more surreal. It all started when Rusl asked him to travel to Hyrule Castle to present the Ordonian Sword and Shield he forged all by himself. Though even before he could ever leave Faron Province, everything turned upside down. Link never thought it would be possible to save the kingdom from destruction. Or traveling further than Faron Woods in the first place. And here he was again – surrounded by the people he loved. A couple days ago, he defeated the Demon King, another reincarnation of the Ancient Evil Ganon. As if it was nothing special, like himself being an actual incarnation of the Legendary Hero.

A few hours later little by litte everyone went home, completely full and tired, including Link. The young hero stood up and stretched himself. Parts of his body still hurt from the battle at Hyrule Castle. He moaned in pain, feeling like an old man and nagging about his back pain. For the time being, he'd gladly take the back pain – it would be more pleasing than his sore muscles.

„Are you alright, lad?“ Bo asked „or should I say 'old man' instead?“

„Being a globetrotter takes its toll, it seems...“ he smirked „still a nice evening, thanks for that. But it's for the best for me to go to bed. Good night you both,“ Link turned around and slightly limped towards the mayor's front door „gods, this is awful,“ he muttered quietly, hoping Bo and his daughter wouldn't hear it.

„Ilia, would you mind to accompany Link? Just in case he trips over a small pebble and falls face down on the ground,“ Bo couldn't hold his laughter. Link glanced over his shoulder and gave him a grumpy look. Admittedly, he wasn't sure if he would reach his home in one piece. Not in this condition.

„You think you're funny, huh?“ Link grumbled, fully aware that he wouldn't get up on his own if he fell.

„Ha! No, I know I'm funny. That's the difference. Something that obviously comes with fatherhood. I'm sure you'll understand one day, lad...“ the mayor bellowed. Lately he's been noticeably funny with his bad jokes and overly friendly, even more than usual, to him, and Link didn't know what to think. He appreciated Bo's support, yet something seemed odd, even before the incident at Ordon Spring three months ago.

„Aaaand that's enough for now,“ Ilia sighed and softly pushed the young hero towards the door „come on, his jokes won't get any better. Trust me...“ she continued and turned around quickly.

The night was peaceful with a waning moon. It was quiet, too, except for the serene sound of the crickets. The mayors' daughter walked Link home. Doesn't this usually happen the other way around?

„Thanks a lot. Your pumpkin pie was great. Sorry that I ate most of it by myself...“

„If I didn't know better I'd think you're a Goron. Seriously, you ate way more than I eat in one week...“

„Good metabolism, I guess,“ Link smirked and patted his hand on his stomach. He hesitated for a moment, considering something like going all in and cupped her face to give her a kiss on her forehead.

„Good night,“ Link climbed up the ladder and walked through the front door.

Chapter Text

Link sat on his bed and reviewed the evening. For a few seconds he wanted to kiss Ilia on her lips. But since he was afraid of getting rejected, he chose her forehead instead. He laughed about himself, bent over and buried is face in his hands. Yep, 'Mr Idiot' it is. Next time will be different. Sort of.

„All in, huh?“ he scoffed. And that was the last thought he remembered before falling asleep...

He was standing in a house. In the middle of a living room, it seemed. He saw a small kitchen, a fireplace, a dining table. And his younger self, the same 5-years-old boy from the previous dream. The boy looked nervous and upset, frozen to the spot while watching a man and a woman, switching his fearful gaze between them. The woman was slender built and wore a uniform – a dark-purple tunic with black pauldrons, a leather belt with daggers on either side of her hips, a black leggings and leather boots. She had the same hair color as the boy, tied into a bun. Her amber-colored eyes looked distracted, stressed, not noticing the little boy. The woman knelt on the wooden floor and put a few personal belongings into a little steel box. The man, however, was standing with his back to the boy, taking on his baldric with a fancy – and most likely very expensive – sword. He wore a shining armor with ornaments over a dark-blue tunic and even a cape with the Hylian Crest on the upper back. He looked very strong – neither bulky nor slender – but it was clearly visible that he had been fighting and training for years. A Royal Knight? He was tall, too. At least six ft. His golden hair was tied back into a neat, short ponytail, and for the time being that was everything adult Link could see. His younger self apparently regained his composure and took a deep breath, looking at the kneeling woman.

„Mommy?“ he asked meekly. The woman gasped and tended to the boy that appeared to be her son. Conversely, this meant that she was his mother. His biological mother. Link's heart skipped a beat. Mom...

The woman carefully pushed the box aside and spread her arms, implying the boy to hug her.

„I'm sorry, sweetie... you and me, we have to leave,“ she got up with her son in her arms and whispered into his ear „let me pack the last few things and you tell Daddy good-bye, okay?“ She kissed his forehead and sat him down. Strangely, adult Link could feel that kiss on his own forehead. He had a bad feeling about this; he knew something bad was going to happen. His younger self turned around to walk to the knight.

„Daddy?“ The boy spoke and the man turned his upper body to look at him „Mommy said I should say good-bye to you...“ Daddy. Due to the strong resemblance in their faces, especially the identical piercing blue eyes, there was not the slightest doubt that this man was his biological father. Looking at him wasn't exactly like looking in the mirror. It was like looking at his future self, a glimpse of what Link would probably look like in a few years. Link was relieved – he'd grow some more inches within the next years. Six feet...

„Alright, big man, come here,“ the knight picked him up. His voice sounded like Link's own albeit... deeper and more sonorous. Young Link wrapped his little arms around the mans' neck. Adult Link could feel his fathers' goatee scratch at his cheek, his hand softly patting on his back. Watching closely, he could see that the knight had tears in his eyes as he looked at the woman, exchanging a gaze of love and sorrow.

Link woke up. He only heard his heart pounding in his chest. His ribs hurt. He had to find out the meaning of those dreams. It was the third night in a row he had a dream like this. Link changed his clothes and packed his things in his travel pack. He also took the Ordonian sword and shield, which he neither delivered to Zelda nor returned to Rusl after his return. The blacksmith surely wouldn't mind if Link would borrow them for some more days. However, before leaving his house he left a note on his table. And so he made his way out of Ordon village in the middle of the night.

I'm sorry... but I have to find out the meaning of my nightmares. It can't be just coincidence...

With these thoughts in his mind, Link left Faron Province and rode to Kakariko Village. Since he didn't know where to start searching for his memories he hoped that Renado could help him in this matter. Besides, he could visit Barnes and the Gorons, too. After Link freed Darbus from corruption they became such compassionate, hard-working friends he could depend on blindfolded. After repelling the twilight from Eldin Province, Link finally reunited with the children and Epona. Prince Ralis's life was saved there. He helped Ilia to remember him.

Yes, Kakariko Village was indeed a place full of fateful events during his journey.

Chapter Text

Ilia and her father sat at the table, having a peaceful breakfast together. Their little chitchat was interrupted by a faint knocking at the door, and Bo asked them in. It was Rusl, panting and with a shocked look on his face. He held a piece of paper in his hands and slowly stepped in, first looking at Ilia, then to her father.

„I-it's Link... he's gone. And Epona, too. Yesterday we had a long conversation about... things and I wanted to look after him, making sure he's okay. I found this note on his table...“ he gave Bo the mentioned note. He read it out loud for Ilia to hear as well.

„I'm sorry I have to disappear again so suddenly. I can't find the right words, though, as I need to figure something out myself. As soon as I know more, I'll send you letters. See you soon.“

A white noise started ringing in her ears, growing louder and louder. Similar to the noise that occured sometimes when she remembered little things back then in Kakariko Village. Things about herself and the people she loved... Yet this was a different noise. A different feeling. Loss. Her life just started being normal again, after weeks of being lost, searching for herself. Ilia stared at the piece of paper in her fathers' hands. Rusl wouldn't lie about that, and even Link wouldn't make a joke out of it. He really was gone, obviously unable to tell his fellow villagers why. They usually talked about everything. At least it was that way before that day at Ordon Spring. When she was abducted with the children. What was it what he wanted to hide? What happened? Something he didn't want to talk about, even with her? The previous day he mentioned being tired and exhausted, yet there was no hint that would imply his disappearance.

Back then in Kakariko Village she was used to Link leaving from time to time for errands or exploring dungeons. Or beating up some meanies, as he phrased it two days ago. But she knew – especially after she regained her memory – he would always come back. To Renado, Luda, Barnes. To the children. To her.

At least for a few days to rest a little. She knew she could always rely on him. This time seemed different though. Ilia knew he'll be gone for a while. Maybe even forever.

Link was a Hylian after all. His pointy ears were an unmistakably proof for his heritage, which made him stick out like a sore thumb in Ordon Village. Perhaps after spending time in Castle Town he realized that he belonged there, and not in the small village at the edge of Hyrule Kingdom where nothing exciting ever happened. Perhaps he was bored, especially after he told lots of stories of his companions like Shad or Ashei at the feast last night.

Maybe he decided to leave behind his plain life as a goat herder and start a new life. He has some connections to Hyrule Castle, maybe even to Princess Zelda herself. So perhaps he'd start working as a guard for her? Or is it... another girl?

The thought about another girl devastated the young woman. Secretly, she hoped for years, Link would be more than a friend someday. Sure, her father always suspected this, as for probably most of the other adults of the village. Even Telma mentioned something in that matter indirectly in a very (or in a less) cryptic way from time to time, and Ilia had to admit the bartender wasn't actually wrong. But she didn't have the guts to tell him how she felt. And now it probably was too late. A lump formed in her throat.

The first two weeks after Link left she barely left her room. She hardly ate or drank even.

„Ilia... please... would you mind coming down again? I know you're hurt. But seeing you like this hurts me, too, you know?“ Bo came up to her room, clearly worried about his daughter. Ilia moved a little to make some space. He sat down beside her on her bed, resting his forearms on his knees.

„I know you don't have a horse, but maybe... you could start distracting yourself by lending Fado a hand at the ranch? Or taking over some of my paperwork? I was about to guide you into the duties of being mayor anyway, and perhaps now it's the right time for that,“ her father said quietly. Ilia bent her knees at her chest. Distracting myself?

„Let's do some paperwork then,“ she answered flatly and sighed shortly after that „I'm sorry... you're right. I should do something useful, shouldn't I?“ She asked. Bo gave her a short little smile.

„You liked him, didn't you?“ he changed the subject pretty fast. Ilia raised an eyebrow. She and Link were close, both because of their age and as friends. Yeah... 'friends'...

„Of course I did. We are... were friends, remember?“ she had an idea what her father was referring to. She wasn't stupid, and her time in Castle Town and Kakariko Village made her grow up. Ordon Village had a small population; she learned more about interpersonal relations in the last few weeks than in her entire life so far. Ilia knew exactly what her father was getting at.

„That's not what I...“ Bo chuckled as he shook his head „You know... nevermind. Let's have some breakfast before starting with the mayor-stuff. Maybe you'll enjoy it more than I do.“

Chapter Text

In the late morning Link reached Kakariko Village, and he was in good spirits Renado could help him. The heat was already cooking him alive, so he led Epona towards the shaman's home as fast as possible, hoping he'd avoid the late summer heat as well. Renado opened the door slowly and his thick eyebrows nearly raised to his hairline.

„What a pleasant surprise,“ he said in a calm voice. Link could tell that Renado was really happy about seeing him again, even though his distant behavior implied the opposite. As a shaman he was an important person and as such an important person he was required to be calm and collected. Good thing Link knew him better.

"Likewise," he replied as he wiped off the sweat on his forehead. Even after a few minutes the hair on the back of his head started getting moist, and he suddenly felt gross. 

„How do you do? I thought you would have returned back to Ordon Village by now.“

„I was, yes, but just for a few days. Actually... I thought you'd have some advice for me...“

„I'll try my best then. Please, come in. It is much cooler in here,“ Renado responded and let Link step inside his home. Although he had probably spent his entire life there, even Renado wasn't unaffected by the heat due to the village's proximity to Death Mountain. Link, however, told the shaman about the dreams he had the previous three nights.

„Unfortunately, I can't help you in this matter. It appears to me the cause of your amnesia is a completely different one than Ilia's. Her amnesia was caused by trauma, and she regained her memories little by little by small triggers. Specific chores, pictures, familiar names... yet none of similar triggers seemed to redeem your memories, not even the time you spent in Castle Town,“ the priest took Link's left hand to look at Courage on its back „I'm positive there must be a reason why you can't remember your childhood and your birth parents. However, what you just explained might have been that ambush at Hyrule Castle thirteen years ago. That coincides with the time when your memories disappeared. Perhaps there's a connection, although I have no further idea. But since you're a Hylian I guess you were born in Castle Town. And if your father truly was a knight and therefore a noble, you were maybe even born inside the castle which means there must be a document, a proof of your birth if you're a noble as well.“

„Interesting... so only important people like knights or dukes and their children are in the records?“ Link raised an eyebrow. He didn't like that thought about being an important person. It was enough for him that he was the hero and often received special treatment. Being the son of a knight wasn't quite helpful either. I just want to be an ordinary person with an ordinary life. Is that really too much to ask?

„That is correct. The Royal Family claims the archive of Hylian history in their library for ages. I'm sure they hold important informations. You should visit Hyrule Castle and ask for an audience with the princess. Unfortunately, there's little I can do for you. Two weeks before that ambush my late wife and me left Castle Town and returned to Kakariko Village – we were born and raised here, and we lived as medical apprentices in Castle Town for many years. We wanted to help our fellow villagers since Eldin Province was an arid area with little water, and our village needed to become self-sufficient, but we had to accept a few refugees, mostly staff from the castle. We had all hands full with taking care of them; they needed food, homes, comfort. There were other priorities that left little time for questions about what happened in Castle Town. And a few days later they returned to their homes. To this day I don't know exactly what happened there, and to be honest, I haven't given it much thought since it didn't affect us here,“ Renado explained in an apologetic manner. It even seemed that he was uncomfortable with it.

After visiting the Gorons and spending the night at the Eld Inn, Link prepared to leave Kakariko village. His next goal was meeting Princess Zelda for more information about the meaning of his dreams. The young hero and Epona made their way to the southern gate of Hyrule Castle Town. He tied his chestnut mare to a fence near the town's gate and followed the road around the Central Plaza to the castle gates. Without the green tunic the citizens barely recognized him. A few stopped in their pace to take a closer look on him from the distance - maybe they recognized him. Yet all of them shook their heads shortly after, more likely to themselves, and went on. Link didn't mind. He thought about his conversation with Renado. He'd always be celebrated for the hero-thingy anyway, not for just being himself. Nonetheless, he had enough friends in all over Hyrule Kingdom who appreciated him as the person he was, and thinking about that made him smile. Link went straight to the castle gates where he was stopped by the gatekeepers immediately.

„Don't you even dare taking one more step, pipsqueak, or you're going to regret that,“ one of the guards ordered harshly. Link didn't wear his green armor but the Hylian styled shirt and pants he obtained before returning to Ordon Village. He looked like just another commoner without the Hero's Tunic, and he couldn't blame the gatekeepers for refusing him access to the castle. Obviously they didn't recognize him.

„Please, I need to see the princess as soon as possible,“ Link explained, although he knew full well that discussing with royal soldiers was pointless. Even worse, they would probably make fun of him.

„In that case, you have to apply for an audience. If you're lucky, your application will be accepted and you can at least enter the Castle within the next ten years,“ both of the guards started laughing at once.

Link took a deep breath, closed his eyes and showed them the triangular mark on the back of his left hand. He had no other choice since it was necessary for passage to Zelda. They gasped with their eyes wide-open. The guards knelt to the ground immediately, lowering their gaze.

„My apologies, sir. Of course you may see Your Majesty. Please, forgive us...“ one of the soldiers said with a shaking voice. Link tried not to laugh. Heh, that's the real deal.

Chapter Text

Link met Shad on his way through the many endless corridors of Hyrule Castle. He stood in front of one of the paintings, scribbling something in an ancient-looking journal. What was it called again? Hyperfocus?

„Still married with your job?“ Link crossed his arms with a smirk. Shad flinched before turning around.

„Don't scare me like that,“ the scholar grumbled after adjusting his glasses „didn't you want to go back home? I mean I, uh,“ he cleared his throat and put one hand on his hip „I'm always glad to see you, don't get me wrong. But I guess you didn't make all the way to the castle just to visit me, did you?“

„Sorry,“ Link shrugged with a wry, apologizing smile „I need to see the princess. It's a personal matter, and Renado suggested I should come here for... answers,“ he continued. Shad raised his eyebrows.

„Well,“ the scholar looked around to make sure nobody's nearby and lowered his voice „she's busy with lots of paperwork right now, as you can probably imagine. Let's see... how about a walk? To be honest I do need some fresh air...“

The two young men went for a walk in the courtyard. Link told Shad everything about his dreams.

„I don't understand,“ he said. Shad stopped walking; it was a lot to digest and Link couldn't blame him.

„What do you mean?“ the scholar asked. Link felt ridiculous because of the whole thing.

„I spent most of my life in Ordon Village. I never questioned why I was the only Hylian, and – to be honest – now I feel pretty stupid because of it. I even thought that Courage was just a weird, triangular birthmark,“ Link sighed and ran a hand through his hair „I was raised by the mayor until his wife died two years after my arrive, then Rusl and Uli took care of me. And I was totally fine with that. I felt safe and loved. Now I have some dreams that maybe show me fragments of my childhood I apparently forgot or something. As if my memories were wiped out. But why now, after the Twilight War? Is that a...“ he started gestulating with his hands „a... Ganon... thing? That he kind of manipulates me or something?“ Link asked. Shad crossed his arms and hummed, thinking about it. The scholar looked quite interested in this.

„I don't think so. You're the wielder of Courage, a power from the gods, and I'm positive that power is supposed to protect you from any harm. To be honest I thought about that quite often recently since the princess wields a fragment of that sacred power as well. May I share my theory?“ Shad asked. Link nodded.

„So, before that Twilight Invasion you had a... good life. Without knowing anything about your purpose, your future, even your abilities. Everything was fine, just as you said. Then Ordon Village was attacked and you were dragged instantly right into an on-going war. Your mind and your body were far too occupied with saving Hyrule Kingdom and its people. So maybe your mind just had, I don't know... no time for dreams like that. But, as I said before, that's just a theory. You said you met your five-years-old self in your dreams. Eventually we will find some more information in the archives. About something that happened thirteen years ago. I was twelve years old at that time, but since my family has been made up of scholars for generations and not made up to be fighters,“ Shad smiled in an excusing manner before chuckling nervously „I spent most of my childhood and youth in this room. And most likely I'll spend the rest of my life in here, surrounded by books, papers, old maps, sketches... you name it.“

„It could have been worse. Or is this the moment when I'm supposed to feel sorry for you?“

„No, it was just the daily complaint. Nothing to worry about,“ Shad sighed as he looked west towards the setting sun „anyway, it's getting late now. I think you should take a little rest. I'll take you to the tower where you slept until a few days ago. And I will send word to the kitchen. Still the big appetite?“ he asked.

„Guilty as charged,“ Link grinned, patting his flat stomach with his hand. The scholar shook his head.

„Unbelievable...“

The guest room was quite comfy. The balcony allowed Link to take a look all over Hyrule Castle Town. Since the sun was already setting, he decided to rest a little. Someone knocked at the door.

„Please, Sir, may I offer your dinner?“ Link opened the door. A lanky boy, close to his own age, held a tray in his hands. Link took it gratefully. The boy seemed very nervous „First day?“ Link asked.

„N-no, sir...“, the boy responded and bowed „It is a big honor meeting y-you in person, sir.“ Sir? Really?

The tray included a basket full of different sorts of bread and cheeses he's never seen before. Also fresh fruit such as a fancy carafe with fresh water in it made of crystal glass. I hope I won't break it...

His life back in Ordon village was quite a contrast to the luxury in Hyrule Castle.

After finishing his dinner, Link made himself ready for bed. Even though he was really tired, he was still looking forward for the next day. But the weariness overwhelmed him immediately and he quickly fell into a deep sleep.

Chapter Text

Another dream. This time he stood ankle-deep in the familiar white mist with a clear, starry sky above his head, the treetops of Faron Woods and steep roofs of Hyrule Castle in the distance. He has been here before; was he about to meet his ancestor, even though they had said goodbye to each other a few weeks ago? After taking a look around he saw a woman in the same uniform she wore in his last dream standing right in front of him. Dark blonde hair, amber eyes. Yet a few years older. Mother.

She put a hand on Link's cheek. It felt real, like the little kiss she gave his younger self on his forehead the previous night. It was still strange. A gesture like this was supposed to be comforting. Not scarifying.

„My boy...“ she smiled, but that smile couldn't reach her eyes. Her smile reminded him of his own.

„What happened to you... and my father?“ Link asked with a shaking voice, his breath uneven.

„Shhh...“ his mother put a finger on his lips, causing him to keep silent. Link could swear he felt the warmth of her finger. It was too real for an ordinary dream; he had influence of what he said. Is that lucid dreaming?

„I wish I had seen you grow up to the young man you've become. How... handsome you are. I wish we had more time together. But fate had different plans. More different than I expected, especially as a seer...“

„A seer? Have you seen my life... me... everything?“ The young hero asked. He wondered if his mother might be the reason for the strange dreams. What were her abilities? Was she capable of more than visions? Was she still alive and literally speaking to him right now? She certainly seemed very real. Very human.

„I was the Royal Seer, appointed by Lanayru because it appeared necessary at the time. Before you were born we were aware of your fate, and after your birth I learned about my and your father's fate. You were... no... you still are far too important for our kingdom, so we sacrificed ourselves for that. For you.“

„Did you and father... die for me? Parents are supposed to see their children grow up...“ So much for the idea that she might still be alive...

„Look, my dear. I can't turn back time, and it wouldn't have changed anyway. You are the child of destiny. You will always be. You share the same bloodline as the previous hero. The calamity he defeated eventually was reborn too, and so it does the next centuries. It is fate. So the lineage... your and Princess Zelda's lineage must not end. For the sake of Hyrule Kingdom. Do you understand?“

„The future of Hyrule depends on me. Great. No pressure,“ Link responded sarcastically.

„Look. Your task is to survive, to keep it simple. As a seer I had lots of visions, and even though they were mostly not pleasant ones, I had two visions that made me very happy,“ she smiled „the very last of my visions showed me your future wife and children. I'd really liked to meet them though...“

„My... child-...ren? Plural? How many? Who will be my wife? And what happens it I won't have kids? Or meet my wife in the first place?!“ he gulped. Thinking about his duty of... inevitable reproduction made him feel uncomfortable. Yet something that has to... be done. Eventually.

Hell, this is awkward...

„To answer all of your questions: Yes, children. Plural. You will have four of them, raising all of them with your loving wife. One day you will see, I promise. Don't worry, dear. I've seen it.“

„That sounds a little scary knowing that somewhere out there the mother of my children is waiting for me to, uhm, have four children with,“ Link looked thoughtful. And a little bit ashamed.

„As I said, it is all predicted. But just because I just told you that doesn't mean you could lean back, put up your feet and rely on your fate, Link. You will have to win her over all on your own without any advantages. She deserves that,“ she smirked. That sentence sounds familiar. Did I hear that before?

„Wha-...“

„Link, are you awake?“ Shad knocked at his door. Link woke up immediately with a quiet yelp. He stretched and yawned, slowly realizing he wasn't sleeping in his own bed but in a bed in Hyrule Castle.

„I am now,“ he groaned and pushed any thoughts about his recent dream aside. Now was not the time to think about what may be in a couple years. And it was absolutely not the time to think about his four children he'd have someday in the future with a woman who's waiting somewhere out there to bear them. It was the time to understand his past and regain his memories, his lost childhood. Four kids. Damn...

Yet he couldn't recall what further information in that matter his mother shared with him anymore.

Before leaving his room, the young man wrote a letter for the residents of Ordon Village. First of all, he owed them an apology; he wasn't particularly proud of his scribbled farewell note. He wasn't proud of disappearing over night either – he could have waited until the next morning for a proper goodbye. However, Link was confident that they would understand. At least that's what he told himself. He had to be careful at this point since he just had a few hints and educational guesses about his past. Link could definitely not write about the chitchat with his mother. Instead, he decided to share his and Shad's recent ideas. He also sent his best regards from Renado, Luda, Barnes and the gorons.