#febulove

Whipping out his phone, Warriors texted Wild first, knowing he was off. When he sent the message, though, it never indicated as delivered.

Wild was likely out exploring his namesake. Typical.

Twilight was working. Four should be awake after his night shift, so maybe he’d try him next. Sky was off too. He’d just seen Time, so he knew he and likely Malon as well were both here. Hyrule was off as well. Wind had school.

Warriors reached out to who he could, and Sky replied first.

He called out? Is he dying?

Idk, Warriors replied. But somebody should check on that.

I’m on it, Sky said.

XXX

The day hadn’t exactly been going the way Legend had planned.

He’d thought the cough was due to the weather change. Sniffles with the shift in temperatures was pretty normal. But when he’d woken up today, he’d felt like he’d been hit by a truck.

It made no sense! The patients he’d taken care of last night hadn’t even been all that sick! The only one who stuck out to him was that awful trauma that had kept him busy for six hours, and then the next hour of time he’d spent with the trauma patient’s family while working on the death packet paperwork. None of the family had been sick, had they?

His symptoms hardly added up. He felt exhausted, and was vomiting so often he could barely hold anything down. But yesterday he’d just had the sniffles like a cold or flu brewing. Maybe it was the flu, he wasn’t sure, but the respiratory symptoms were gone.

In either case, he was too weak to get off the couch, let alone go to work.

It sucked.

Worst of all, his stupid pride prevented him from texting anyone about it. Even though he knew damn well Warriors would get nosy once he saw that Legend had called out. He wasn’t sure whether to be relieved or annoyed about it.

He could take care of himself, and he didn’t want anyone else to get sick. His stomach churned as he thought, it’s a good thing Ravio’s travel contract ended and he’s somewhere else now, or I’d have to drag myself back to my room.

He missed that moron. Living alone was not new to him, but he’d gotten strangely used to having someone else around. Maybe he’d put the word out to get another housemate.

But he certainly wouldn’t do so right now, while he felt like freaking death.

His phone buzzed. It had been buzzing. He didn't care. He saw that there were texts coming in, but his head was full of cotton and he hardly had the strength to keep his eyes open and hydrate.

He should probably start an IV on himself. He'd hoarded enough supplies to do it. But they were all in his bedroom, and he was out here in the den on the couch. Could he even make it that far?

His phone buzzed again. Then there was a knock at his door.

Legend lifted his head from his pillow before plopping it back down and throwing the cover over his entire body, hiding himself from the world. Between his shift last night and how he felt now, he certainly didn't want to deal with people, didn't want to move, didn't want to think.

The person knocked again. Louder. Legend growled and burrowed further into his blanket. Eventually they would go away.

XXX

Ok, so hes not answering his phone OR his door??

What if he's like dying

Maybe somebody should call 911

Twilight stared at the group chat, brow furrowing. Warriors had started texting everyone together after people had passed messages to each other in worry, trying to keep things organized. Time and WIld had yet to reply, but everyone else had chimed in.

Well... except for Legend himself, obviously.

Twilight had been busy ambulating a patient, but he had a moment to sit, and no call bells were going off, so he replied. 911 seems a bit much. I can leave early and check on him.

But I'm already at his door and he's not answering. How are YOU going to check on him too? Sky asked.

I know what I'm doing, was all Twilight said before texting Sky privately, asking him to get some supplies for him.

Twilight glanced towards the manager's office. He could potentially leave early. He would get a write up for it, even if it was for a family emergency, but he didn't care - if Legend was legitimately ill, then he'd take the smack to the wrist. Hospital policies were stupid anyway. Besides, it wasn't like they could afford to fire him, with as short staffed as they were.

He tried to ignore the anxiety building up in his chest. He hoped he was right when he said not to call 911.

When he reached Legend's apartment, Sky met him at the door, holding a small leather pouch. "This is what you wanted from the ranch, right?"

"Yeah, that's it," Twilight replied before grabbing it and opening it. All his lock picking tools were there, and he nodded to himself.

Sky glanced over, eyes widening. "Oh, you have one too?"

Twilight blinked, looking up at Sky. "What?"

His friend smiled innocently. "It's nothing. Can we get inside now?"

Twilight stared a moment longer before shaking his head. Legend could be dying for all they knew, he had to focus. He quickly picked the lock, opening the door, only for a bolt to stop it as soon as he attempted.

Cursing under his breath, Twilight tried to push another tool through the opening to work the latch off the hook.

"Whoever you are, I'll fucking cut you," a hoarse voice threatened quietly, not sounding threatening at all.

"Legend!" Sky called. "Legend, it's us! Are you okay?"

"What the--Sky??"

"Ledge, open the door or I will," Twilight ordered, growing agitated.

There was an incoherent string of curses before a loud thud rang across the way. Sky called out to Legend, who didn't answer.

Twilight had had enough. He kicked once, twice, and the door swung open, latch flying off the frame. He and Sky rushed in to find Legend, pale and sweaty, half collapsed and tangled in a giant comforter, eyes wide with both alarm and annoyance.

"You broke my fucking door!" Legend wheezed before groaning and putting his head on the ground.

"I'll fix it," Twilight answered easily, hauling his friend over his shoulder. "Let's get you to bed and figure out what's happening."

"What the hell, Twi, put me down--"

Sky smirked, relieve his friend was alive and awake. "You should be used to this by now after Time had to carry you out of the ED."

Legend's pale face grew even whiter. "That son of a bitch talked, didn't he, I'm gonna--"

"Enough, save your strength," Twilight interrupted. After he settled their friend in bed, he knelt down to be at eye level with him. "What happened? You look awful."

"Well, now that my door is destroyed--"

"Legend."

"I don't know!" Legend squeaked before moaning, squeezing his eyes shut. "I just feel like shit."

"Well, don't worry about it now, we'll take care of you," Twilight said gently.

Legend puffed out his cheeks to argue before giving up.

Twilight and Sky rotated being by his side and taking care of the apartment, which was a disaster - Legend had been working the last four nights before falling incredibly ill. He never spiked a fever, but he threw up whatever they tossed his way.

"G-gonna n-need an IV," Legend mumbled, exhausted. "Twi... can you...?"

"No," Twilight immediately shook his head. "No, the last time, I--Malon was--no."

"Do you have a drill?" Sky asked. "I bet I can figure out an IO."

Legend glared at him. "You are not drilling into my bones."

"We'll get Wars--"

"Just let me die."

"Legend."

"Where the fuck is Hyrule."

"I'm right here."

Sky and Twilight turned to see Hyrule walking into the room.

"Wait, I swear I locked up," Sky noted.

Hyrule shrugged. "I came in through the window."

Twilight stared. "We're on the fifth floor."

"Yeah?" another voice asked as Wild traipsed into the room. "And?"

Sky shrugged. "I mean, it works."

Twilight chewed on his tongue, opting to thank God they hadn't died rather than chew them out at the moment. "Ledge needs an IV."

"Oh, okay," Hyrule said easily. "You got supplies or do you need me to get some?"

There was a knock at the door as Legend spoke to Hyrule, and Twilight sighed, rising to answer it. He hadn't paid attention to his phone, so when Four and Wind almost barreled him over, he yelped in shock.

"We've been texting, dude, what the hell," Wind snapped. "Is he dead, is he okay, what is--"

"He's sick, but he's stable," Twilight reported as he steadied himself. "I took his vitals, they aren't terrible. Blood pressure's a little low, but not worryingly so. Heart rate's rate at the edge of tachycardic. He's probably dehydrated."

"We should take him to an urgent care so he can get some IV fluids," Four said firmly.

"Hyrule's giving him fluids now."

"He--he is?" Wind's eyes widened. "Wait I wanna see! I never get to see IVs started!"

Wind dashed into the room, leaving the other two and giving Four just enough time to warn him, "Wars is coming up, he just had to park the car. Time and Malon are on their way."

Twilight nodded, listening as Wind chatted and checked on Legend in the bedroom.

By the time he got back to the others, Hyrule had taped his successful IV and was running a fluid bolus into his friend. Twilight sighed, sitting on the bed, watching Legend squirm uncomfortably and try to rest.

Eventually, the entire group was there. They cleaned the apartment, they relaxed in the den and watched a movie, rotating in and out of Legend's room. When the initial fluid bolus was done, Legend's relief was visible.

"You certainly were thirsty," Wild noted. "You feeling better?"

"Still nauseous as hell, but yeah," Legend reported. Then he smiled, looking at all of them. "I... I'm sorry you guys had to come here. But... thanks."

Twilight tipped his head to the side. "That's what friends are for, Ledge."

"Yeah," Sky agreed. "But Twi did totally wreck your door, so we decided we'd take you to the ranch to stay there for a while."

Legend's eyes widened, smile fading. "What?"

"Okay, so we're good to kidnap him now?" Wild asked, glancing at Time.

Time checked his phone. "Malon says the room is ready, yes."

"You little--you guys--you're all assholes--"

"Now, now, Legend, you said you were thankful," Warriors tutted.

"I hate all of you," Legend grumbled, though there was absolutely no bite to it.

"Relax, we'll bring your stuff too," Four assured him. "It's best to be somewhere where others can help you."

Legend said nothing, growing grouchy and exhausted. This work stretch had been longer than most, and he could still hear the family members crying over their lost loved one, could still hear the red alarms. He was beginning to wonder if he was even truly sick at all, having never spiked a fever or been around anyone with similar symptoms. Either that, or his immune system just crashed after...

Well. He didn't know. Heavy stress could lead to illness, but...

Whatever. He would never admit it, but he was grateful to be going to the ranch.

Uli jumped, startled, having been lost in thought. "Oh! Dearest, I--I'm so sorry, I just--"

His wife paused, sighing and sagging a little in the sofa. Rusl knelt in front of her to be at eye level and looked her over. She seemed very out of sorts. "What's wrong?"

Uli shook her head. "I'm just tired. I'm sorry. I'll work on dinner."

Rusl laid a hand on her knee. "If you're tired, then rest. I'll take care of dinner."

Uli's posture changed, stiffening a little as she shot him an uncertain, questioning glance.

Rusl tried not to be offended by the look. "Just because it didn't quite go that well last time doesn't mean I can't make something for you. Go rest in bed. I'll take care of everything."

Uli watched him a moment longer before sighing and nodding. Rusl kept an eye on her until she vanished into the bedroom, and he nodded to himself, setting to work. The cleaning could wait until after dinner. As for the children, he knew Colin had Hana as he usually took babysitting duty around the evening. He saw them outside just a moment ago. So that just left dinner.

Nothing was really laid out to be utilized, but as Rusl walked to the kitchen area, he saw some usable items. Eggs, some goat milk and cheese. That was good. Uli usually loved eggs boiled, but...

Well, to be honest, Rusl got tired of peeling them and mutilating them. Besides, he was cooking now, which meant they could have something different! Uli might appreciate a change. Also, boiled eggs were usually served for breakfast. He needed to make something a bit more substantial.

What else can I make with all this? He wondered, growing steadily more baffled at the prospect.

He would need some help.

Gathering the ingredients, Rusl stepped outside and headed towards the outskirts of the village. Colin took note, following him.

"Is dinner ready?" his son asked as he traipsed along, his baby sister bundled in his arms.

"Not quite," Rusl answered. "Your mother needed some time to rest, so I'll be making dinner."

Colin paused, expression growing worried. "Is Ma okay?"

"She'll be fine," Rusl assured his boy. He had to smile at the child's concern; Colin had such a big heart. Although it was a valid question since Uli usually never faltered, Rusl did know his wife had her slumps just as much as anyone else; women seemed to suffer from it more than men (Rusl had to marvel how women endured so much mentally and emotionally - he admired Uli all the more for it). He was more than happy to take care of her and the family until she recovered. "But we can make the load easier for her for a little while."

"Where are we going?" Colin questioned next.

"Well..." Rusl paused as they found their way to the last house in the village. "I figured I'd recruit some help."

Rusl and Link had both been on their own journeys now, after the attack on Hyrule. Rusl usually got by with scrounging together something somewhat edible, but he could just as well go a day without eating until he reached a settlement. Link might have better experience - the boy used to help Uli cook when he was younger.

Rusl was humble enough to admit he was a terrible cook, after all. But he was certain they could make something together.

Link was inside munching on a carrot (Rusl sincerely hoped the boy wasn't just going to eat that for dinner). After a brief explanation and another assurance that Uli was, indeed, going to be okay, the three put their heads together on the matter.

"What about an omelet?" Link offered. "It's better than just boiling them."

"How about egg stew?" Colin picked up a glass of milk and shook it. "Ma always says milk is great for stews."

"I've never heard of egg stew, I'm afraid," Rusl laughed. "Is that something you had in Kakariko?"

"I had omelets in Kakariko," Link noted.

Colin shook his head. "No, there weren't egg stews in Kakariko Village. But it has to exist, right? And Ma makes lots of stews for dinner."

"But we ain't got any of the ingredients for stew," Link sighed. "There's usually other stuff in it. I can see if I can get some pumpkins."

"Uli needs dinner sooner rather than later," Rusl interrupted the train of thought. "Let's use what we have. She could make something out of it. How about the omelet idea?"

Link rubbed the back of his head sheepishly. "I don't know how to make omelets."

"Well it can't be too hard," Rusl supposed. "I've had plenty in my travels. We'll figure this out. We know it takes eggs."

"But how do they end up like that? Uli always boils them."

"Maybe it's after you boil them?" Colin offered. Hana giggled in support of the suggestion.

"Omelets are yellow like the yokes. Maybe it's just made out of egg yokes?" Rusl muttered, thinking about it. That had to be the case. But the yokes varied in texture from watery to powdery depending on the degree of boiling the egg. They were never soft and fluffy like omelets.

"Maybe we could ask someone in the village," Link offered with a shrug.

Rusl was humble enough to admit he needed help, but he wasn't that humble. "No. We'll figure this out. We're all smart lads, we can get this done."

After intense debate, the group decided that a omelette was their best option. They tried to boil the eggs so they could separate the yolks more easily. Rusl lamented it was good they needed the yolks and not the whites as he seemed to shred them while peeling the shells. Colin managed to peel them perfectly, at least until he and Link made a competition out of it. Rusl eventually had to slow his rowdy children down before they destroyed the eggs entirely. Then they mixed the yolks in with milk and boiled that, slowly adding cheese as the milk warmed.

The family looked at the bubbling, semi-soupy mixture in bewildered silence.

“I don’t think we did it right,” Link finally noted.

Colin suggested, “Maybe we just need to boil it longer?”

“We’re gonna burn something.”

Rusl ran a hand through his hair, exasperated. If he really wanted to help Uli, he should probably—

“Rusl?”

Startled, Rusl, Link, and Colin jumped and whirled to see Uli at the entrance to Link’s home. Hana cheered happily, hands in the air in greeting of her mother.

“Uli!” Rusl looked guiltily between the strange cheesy soup they’d made and his wife. “I—we’re still working on—”

“Is that dinner?” Uli asked, her tiredness fading in lieu of amusement.

Rusl felt his cheeks flush in embarrassment, and he puffed his chest out somewhat defensively. “It’s still a work in progress.”

“Pa,” Link argued halfheartedly, and Colin looked pleadingly at Uli for assistance.

Their mother sighed good naturedly. “What were you trying to make?”

“It’s fine—”

“Omelets,” Colin answered.

Rusl looked grumpily at his boys. Traitors.

Uli burst out laughing.

After catching her breath and wiping her tears of mirth, his wife said, “Let’s go home and I’ll make an actual omelet.”

Rusl was not going to make her work when she’d been too tired to do so earlier, but despite all his insistence, she nudged him gently until he relented. The compromise was t the would help cook.

And honestly, Uli’s smile was brighter than it had been in a while as she giggled about the home, as Colin helped clean dishes, as Link gathered supplies.

Hardly anyone knew of her alter ego, Sheik. Impa knew because she had trained her. Link knew because Zelda had wanted him to accompany her on a mission, and she trusted him - he had helped Hyrule so much, after all, and he had finally started to not act strangely around her.

But that was about it.

So, naturally, for her to go on a mission as Sheik she had to sneak out. And the best time to do so was between different venues, namely between her council meeting last night and the party tonight.

She'd really hoped that the rain would stop long before she got back to Castle Town, but it only seemed to get heavier. It covered her footsteps well enough, but once she reached the castle, she started leaving a trail, dribbling water like some rebellious teenager who had snuck out after bedtime.

It was embarrassing, really. And there was no way she'd have enough time to dry off before the event.

Zelda at least made it to her quarters before she could be discovered, but it wasn't even ten minutes before there was a knock at her door. She jumped, hoping it was just Impa, but instead found her husband peeking in.

"Uh... Zelda?"

She tried not to be exasperated, truly. Pippin was fairly innocent, and seemed like a sincere man. But she did not need this on top of everything else she was dealing with tonight.

"I'll see you at the party, I just need a bit more time to prepare," she said, anxiously trying to towel dry her hair and only succeeding in making it frizzy.

Pippin furrowed his brow, nose scrunching a little as he stayed in the doorway. "Did you go out in the rain?"

"No," Zelda hastily answered, far too hastily, honestly. "I just got out of a nice long bath. Lost track of time."

Pippin watched her a moment longer and then his expression relaxed, and he sighed. "I got caught taking too long of a bath as well, I'm afraid. Though I got out a little faster than you."

What a strange thing to say. She didn't really care if he took a long bath or...

Oh. He was playing along.

"I get lost in stories in my mind, I suppose," Pippin admitted. "I just wanted to find somewhere quiet. But anyway, I won't waste your time. I can go handle matters at the banquet until you're ready to join."

Pippin paused as he turned to leave, and added, "My sister often had the same issue. She found that a braid tended to hide things better. I learned to braid hair because of that."

Well, Zelda certainly couldn't braid hair. She hardly could take care of her hair, letting transformation magic tuck it away and letting servants handle it the rest of the time.

She didn't want servants touching her. She didn't need rumors spreading about where she could've been out in the rain.

"Help me with my hair, then?" she asked, facing him more fully to seem a little more welcoming.

Pippin was silent a moment before slowly entering the room. Zelda sat on a chair at her desk, throwing her damp hair over her shoulder.

Pippin's hands were gentle as he started to detangle her hair, dividing it into three pieces. He paused in his work, and when she glanced up he was scrutinizing the locks, biting his lips.

"Is something wrong?" she questioned.

"I'm debating which braid will hide the frizz the best," he answered.

Zelda laughed. "How many braids do you know?"

"All of them," her husband replied, somewhat exasperated. "My sister insisted."

Zelda chuckled, looking at her reflection in the window. She wondered what it was like to have a sister, to not be the only child in a large, cold castle.

"So what were you getting caught up in while you were bathing?" she prompted, curious if he truly had meant something else.

Pippin was quiet before starting to braid her hair once more. "Well, I was attempting to find somewhere quiet where I felt less... seen. Perhaps the bath would have been a preferable spot, but then the servants come in, and--"

Her husband cut himself off, and when she glanced up his eyes were wide in realization that he'd slipped up.

"Apologies," he said quietly. "I suppose there's a reason I didn't speak much at political functions back home."

"It's okay," Zelda assured him just as softly. "I don't always enjoy being perceived either. Though I am very used to it, as I imagine you are as well. Do you... feel comfortable here?"

"Y-yes," Pippin answered carefully. "I just... there's... it's nothing, really. The servants are all very good and kind, and..."

Zelda pulled away from him entirely, turning in the chair and raising an eyebrow.

"It's Ember, isn't it?" she questioned flatly, a smile trying to pull at her lips.

"Heavens, yes," Pippin let out like the words were water pressed against a dam, finally being released. "She's so--"

"Overbearing?"

Pippin bit his lip again. "Well, I was going to say eager."

Zelda finally did laugh. "You hid in the rain to get away from the head maid?"

Pippin shifted, cheeks blushing, but her humor eased his anxieties. "...Yes."

"Oh, Pippin," she giggled. "I haven't done that since I was a child. But I do understand. What was she harassing you about?"

"Tonight, actually," Pippin sighed. "I'd already read up on the guests, I didn't need... well, never mind."

"It's all right," Zelda smirked and winked before turning back to face the window. "Here, finish up my hair and we'll face her wrath together. I'm sure she's going mad over our tardiness."

Pippin finally did chuckle at that. "Probably so. I can stall once I'm finished with your hair."

"I would... appreciate that," Zelda finally said, feeling some relief. It was... nice having a friend in the castle. "I won't be long."

Pippin finished her braid in silence before exiting. It was a small moment, but Zelda felt a little lighter for it. After feeling like a stranger was in her home the last month, she was finally feeling like Pippin was more than just a guest who served a purpose.

It was strange, pondering her words. Link had tried to visit the Domain fairly often after finishing his knight training. He'd enjoyed spending time with his friends, especially Mipha. So for her to ask such a question...

Maybe Link just didn't do enough. But he also did still miss her. He wanted to spend more time with her too. He missed the Domain, the smell of the clean water in the air, the openness of the city layout in comparison to the crowds of Castle Town and fortifications of the castle itself. He missed little Sidon following him around (goodness he wished Sidon and Lyra could meet, his little sister would love hanging out with him, and the amount of trouble the two would get into would be almost as bad as Link when he was younger), puffing out his little chest and trying to get Mipha’s attention or pretend not to be curious about Hylians when he absolutely was. He missed Bazz and the brigade, he missed exploring the wilderness together and getting into all kinds of messes and adventures.

For a moment, he watched a group of teenagers in the city market, and he realized something strange. He didn’t really have friends back home in Hateno, nor did he really have any here. They were all just in the Domain.

At least it seemed like Princess Zelda could be a friend now, finally. He supposed saving her life would make her realize he wasn’t there to just annoy her. In fact, she was actually trying to be quite kind and personable. It was nice. And he liked most of the Champions.

But he had time off now, and… he knew where he wanted to be.

Getting to the Domain would take about three days. So he’d really only have one or two to spend there. But it was worth the travel. Maybe someday he could use that mode of travel he’d heard the Sheikah scientists discuss with Zelda, some sort of magic or technology through the Sheikah slate. That would certainly make things easier when he didn’t have much time to spare.

In either case, he saddled up his horse and packed his bags. Zelda was elsewhere and he didn’t want to bother her with a goodbye, nor his father, so he left quietly.

The weather was nice for most of the journey. Link found that the longer he traveled alone the more excited he got to see her.

It was… he was beginning to realize he had more feelings for her than he could really put into words. He treasured their friendship dearly, and Mipha was one of the few who really knew him from before the weight of his duty had started crushing him. Now that he saw Mipha more often, he just…

It didn’t make sense. He saw her a fair amount and it was never enough.

Well. He had an inkling of why. But he knew it was silly and impossible.

And yet…

“Perhaps… we could spend some time together?”

It wasn’t selfish of him to indulge in the safety and comfort of her company, to indulge in his feelings for her, if she asked for time spent with him too, right? He just wanted to be with her. They were friends.

What if she wanted to be more than friends? Link knew he did, but…

He was Hylian. The elders wouldn’t like that at all. Not to mention his duties bound him to Hyrule. Though, really, everyone’s duties were the same with the looming dangers ahead.

Hylia, he just wanted to hold her. But that would probably be going too far.

Link sighed and journeyed on. When he reached the Domain a few days later, he smiled in relief at the comforting familiarity.

“Linny!”

Kodah caught sight of him first, hastening his way. Link shifted a little awkwardly - although he enjoyed catching up with all his friends in the Domain, Kodah in particular had been quite insistent on taking his time lately. He didn’t have much to spare, and he wanted to see Mipha.

The teenage Zora skidded to a halt, splashing some water, and excitedly hugged Link. He gave a quick squeeze in return, a small smile pulling at his lips.

“Oh, Linny, it’s so good to see you!” Kodah said cheerily. “And so soon! Did you miss the Domain that much?”

Kodah giggled as Bazz ran over, waving. The rest of the brigade trickled into the area, but Gaddison interrupted the group. “I’m sure Mipha will want to see you. Do you have much time?”

Link felt gratitude pulse through him, and he was pretty sure it showed in his eyes. He shook his head in response, indicating his need to see her sooner rather than later, and Gaddison started to guide him into the Domain.

Kodah stomped her foot a little, shoving into his path. “Linny, Mipha can see you in a little bit, you’ve barely been here!”

”Give it a rest, Kodah,” Bazz waved her off easily, giving Link a break. “Go on, Link, we can catch up later.”

Link nodded with a smile, feeling a little guilty that he was pushing his way beyond them, but his desire to see Mipha still won out. Gaddison guided him towards the reservoir, commenting that Mipha spent as much time in the Divine Beast as she could when she wasn’t being pulled to do other duties.

Link wondered, not for the first time, if Mipha ever really had time to herself. Or, perhaps, the time in Vah Ruta was the best time she had to herself. He wasn’t sure if that was better or worse than his own situation - constantly under scrutiny, but hardly ever spoken to, Link found himself alone a lot before he’d had to follow Zelda everywhere she went.

Mipha was seemingly busy upon their arrival, standing on top of Vah Ruta and deeply pondering something. It wasn’t until Gaddison gave up on waving and just whistled to get the princess’ attention that Mipha jumped, startled, and turned to them.

”Link?” She gasped, diving into the water. Link smiled as he watched her in the air, as she barely made a splash into the reservoir, as her small form tore through the water to get to them. Gaddison walked away just as Mipha was emerging, a knowing smile pulling at her lips.

Link didn’t quite register it.

”Link, I—there was no notice, I didn’t expect you to be coming,” Mipha noted, walking towards him. “Is everything all right?”

Link nodded. “I missed you.”

”You… you missed me?” Mipha repeated, and there was something strange in her tone, a confusion and hope and bewilderment all intermingling together as her eyes widened a little.

Link felt a little silly all of a sudden, rubbing his hands against his tunic anxiously.

But then Mipha smiled, anxious energy dissipating. “I missed you too. Will you be staying long?”

”Just for today,” Link said. “I have to go back after that.”

Mipha was silent, hand slowly rising and fiddling with her sash. She looked soft, touched for lack of a better word, and she noted, “You came all the way from the castle, just to spend a day with… with the Zora?”

”With you,” Link clarified, wondering if he was making this better or worse. “You… you’d mentioned… you wanted to spend time together. And I…”

His voice faded, but he wrestled with it, grappling on to whatever scrap of courage he could. But his words had never been what he was known for, and he wasn’t sure if he was going to mess this up. He didn’t want to ruin their friendship.

But Mipha had mentioned it first.

”I… want to spend time with you too.”

Again, Mipha was silent. But her energy had calmed, no longer the frantic anxiety that she sometimes showed around him, a hint that she might have different feelings than just friendship in mind. He’d seen it a few times, initially wondering if something was wrong, if somehow being around him was an issue now. When they spent time together alone, though, she often was calm and relaxed around him. Though the anxiety had come far more in their recent interactions, and…

Well, he wasn’t sure what to make of it. But again, if she had extended the offer first, then reciprocating it couldn’t be bad, right?

…Right?

And then, he saw it, he saw that smile Mipha would make when she could see far beyond the surface, when she recognized what was truly being said. It was understanding, gentle, safe. Link felt seen all of a sudden, and he wanted to melt into the feeling. He swallowed, voice lost, body trembling. Mipha’s smile grew, and she giggled, a bright, bubbly, excited sound, and the nervous energy returned.

”I… I’m glad,” was all she said in reply, but a million words floated between the pair. “We… we should make the most of today, then. And… I… if I can, I’ll try to see you at the castle, if… if that’s okay.”

Link swallowed and nodded. Of course it was okay. And it was a clear sign that he hadn’t just messed things up.

Mipha extended a hand gracefully, even a little shyly, and Link took it, and the pair walked away from the reservoir. He wasn’t sure where they going, but whatever they would do, it would be enough to just be together.

Hemisi huffed. "I thought you liked the fancy stuff here."

"It's not as nice as home," Merovar noted dully. "Hyrule's prize is its natural habitats and resources, not its people or amenities."

"Now you sound like Dad."

Merovar grew silent again as a breeze blew by, playing with their hair.

Hemisi said, "I wish we didn't have to plan to attack this place."

Her brother stiffened a little, whispering, "You shouldn't say it out loud."

"It's true," she emphasized, though more quietly. "I don't want to attack this place. Do you?"

Merovar sighed. "I... don't know. Dad says the Triforce will help us. And I mean... I think it would be pretty amazing. To rule all this. You know?"

"Why?" Hemisi asked, sitting up.

Merovar stared at her. "Why?"

"Why would it be cool to rule this place?" she elaborated, eyes boring into her brother. "Why do we have to bother them and cause that trouble at all? I'm all for a good fight, but it has to be for a good reason."

"You just don't want to fight your boyfriend," Merovar chuckled.

"Give me a reason, Mer."

Her brother's mouth twisted a little in annoyance. "Have you met their king? He's an idiot. We'd be doing Hyrule a favor."

"Who cares about doing Hyrule a favor?" Hemisi questioned. "Dad doesn't."

"No," Merovar agreed immediately, looking away. "He doesn't."

The crickets chirped, though the silence was far less peaceful and pleasant. A heaviness filled the air until Merovar finally broke it.

"Do you think Dad's okay?"

Hemisi didn't choose to argue or provoke her brother. Instead, she bit her lip. "I don't know."

The twins both held a mutual understanding, an observation that their father had grown steadily more obsessed with this mission. Of course, it was an important objective that required a lot of planning. Hemisi knew that. But... when she wasn't caught up having fun with Link, she couldn't help but notice how little he seemed to pay attention to anything pertaining to home anymore.

At least Merovar had noticed as well. It made Hemisi feel less alone.

"Maybe we should talk to him," she suggested. "Just to check on him."

Merovar huffed. "He won't appreciate it."

"You don't know that."

"I do know that. Just because you're his favorite doesn't mean he'll listen to you about this. You haven't been with him as much as I have on this mission. You're too busy fawning over Link."

"I am not," she grumbled. "Ugh, this is stupid. We should just talk to him."

"Whatever." Merovar rolled his eyes. "At least it'll be over soon. You've got the layout of the castle and its patrols memorized, I've got the king talking to me about the Triforce... based on what I got and Dad's planning and spies, we'll probably know the location of the stupid thing by the Festival of Colors."

Hemisi squirmed uncomfortably. She wasn't keen on her part in all this. She didn't want to take Link out of play like her father had asked her to do. She didn't want to betray him like that.

Seeming to read her mind from her body language, Merovar asked, "You think you can do it?"

"I know I can," she replied a little curtly. "It's not a matter of whether I can."

Merovar watched her for a few moments, and his expression grew sad. "He really loves you, you know."

Hemisi grew confused. "Why do you look upset about that? I know he loves me. I love him too."

"Would you marry him?"

"Yeah," she answered fairly quickly. "I would. I want to. But like... this'll... it's so stupid. Can't we just tell him about it? Maybe he thinks--"

"We can't tell him, are you out of your mind?" Merovar hissed. "He's a Sheikah! They're the most loyal to the crown!"

"We already established the king's an idiot," Hemisi argued. "Isn't that why we're doing this, supposedly?"

"Hyrule will fall," Merovar said sternly. "With a king like that, it's just a matter of time. We're stronger and have the right to take over, Dad said so himself. Those with power should utilize it. We'd do a better job. But that doesn't mean everyone will be happy about it. Misi, don't you get it? I... I don't want you to get hurt in this. You have to let him go, or you have to take him out of play, but you can't tell him."

Hemisi chewed on the inside of her cheek, looking away, tears stinging in her eyes. She hated this. This was stupid.

"Look, I--whether we like it or not, it's going to happen," Merovar said carefully. "But I... Dad says you can do anything with the Triforce. And he likes Link. So I'm sure he'll make it work somehow. It's just the mission itself that'll be the problem."

Hemisi glanced at him, hope filling her heart. "You think so?"

Her brother shrugged, but he gave a small smile with it. Hemisi had to laugh at that.

"You know, for you being the one who's better with words, you're not being very convincing," she noted.

"I don't know much about the Triforce," Merovar replied evenly before putting a hand on her shoulder. "I just don't want our family to fall apart because of this. Hemisi... no matter what happens, I'll be there with you, okay? And... I'm sure Link'll join us too, when it's all done. And then you two can go frolicking off into the sunset and leave me stranded out here."

Hemisi cackled at the imagery before lightly punching her brother on the chest. "I'm not leaving you, moron. No matter what happens... we'll have each other."

Merovar's face, scrunched up in response to the playful punch, softened, eyes twinkling in the dull light of the crescent moon. And then he pulled his sister into a hug, tight and scared and loving. Hemisi held him just as fiercely, the two anchoring each other in a sea of uneasiness.

“What would you like to send them?” She asked.

“Papa always has a handkerchief,” Lyra noted thoughtfully. “So I wanted to make some for him and put his name on them. I like these earrings and I think they’d look pretty on Link, so I want to send those to him. Does Princess Mipha wear earrings too?”

Tilieth raised an eyebrow, bemused. “Princess Mipha?”

“She’s Link’s friend!” Lyra insisted.

“Of course,” Tilieth chuckled. “But I don’t know if Zora wear earrings. They do like jewelry, though. At least your papa said they did.”

Lyra pondered the matter, humming, and then smiled excitedly, rattling off multiple ideas for the care package, and Tilieth had to laugh.

“Sweetie, we have to send this off in a week for it to reach them by the winter solstice,” she noted. “Can you do that in a week?”

”Yes!” Lyra answered immediately with a determined nod. She certainly had her father’s will of iron, Tilieth noted with a touch of affection.

True to her word, all the assorted items were prepared and ready in a week’s time. When the package arrived at the castle another week later, Abel hardly had time to look at it while he assisted in arranging security measures for the solstice festivities. The religious ceremony would take place on the Great Plateau, of course, but first there would be celebrations in the castle.

King Rhoam was insistent on preparing for the Calamity, but he also knew that the subjects needed normalcy and stability. This ball had to be perfect, and, more importantly to Abel, safe.

Sighing tiredly, Abel finally sat heavily at the table in the royal knights' barracks. The package had been addressed to him, but he also saw Link’s name on it. Given the return address, he knew what it was, and he smiled, exhaustion held at bay, warmth filling his heart.

Opening it carefully, he saw several items together, as well as a letter.

He wanted to read it now, honestly, but he also wanted Link to see it as soon as he could, wanted to share this joy with his son. Although the boy hardly needed his father’s company or help anymore, Abel knew Link would be eager to hear from his sister and mother.

Abel went personally to fetch his son, not wishing to waste resources on the matter, and found the boy munching on some fried mushrooms in the kitchens.

Honestly, with as much as he ate Abel was half wondering if he still had growing to do. He wondered, half amused, if the young man hoped he’d get taller.

I’m afraid I did not contribute much to your height, son, sorry, he lamented halfheartedly.

Link noticed that someone had entered and he paused, mouth open and ready to devour another skewer, but as soon as his eyes locked with his father’s, he stood, back straight, face neutral, food forgotten.

“Your mother sent us something,” Abel explained. “Come with me, we can look through it together. Looks like Lyra wrote as well.”

Link’s eyebrows rose a little, face softening with a gentle, small smile, and he nodded. The pair walked in silence until they reached Abel’s quarters, and Link hurried to the package, pulling out items without asking. Abel huffed out a little laugh, reaching for the letter.

“Let’s see,” he rumbled quietly, settling on his bed while Link paused, listening intently. Skimming through the part addressed to himself (he would read it quietly later), he found the pertinent passages. "Dearest Link, please know that I am very proud of you. Your dedication has paid off, and the goddess smiles upon you every day. Please know I am always praying for your safety and that I love you dearly. But though you are the Hero of Destiny, you are still my little boy, so please accept some gifts so I can assure myself that you are well taken care of. I know you have a set uniform, but perhaps you can layer the tunic underneath to help keep you warm? And surely the socks will not be a problem. I know it can be chilly on the road! Lyra has something to say as well.

"Dear Link, Mama said I had to get things ready in a week so I couldn't get all the things I wanted but I think this'll be okay for now. First, I have these pretty earrings that I really like, but I know you wear earrings too so I wanted you to have them to remember me. Also because I think they're cute and I want you to look cute."

Here Link interrupted with a loud snort of amusement, the infamous earrings in his hand, brilliant blue like his eyes. Abel smiled, tilting his head to the side and admiring the sight for a moment before returning to the letter. "Also I found these rocks in the water and they were pretty, and I know you like collecting things so I wanted you to collect them. But you have to promise to collect more rocks and show me when you get home."

Abel was the one to laugh now. "She sent rocks. I trust they weren't too heavy for the poor postman."

Link jiggled the box, and both men could hear the rocks rattle against each other. He slowly fished them out, and they were thankfully fairly small in his palm, some smooth and clean while others were jagged and sparkled.

Link glanced at one, turning it in his hand, looking content and fascinated. Abel rolled his eyes good naturedly. Honestly, this boy is far more his mother's son than mine.

It seemed the rest of the letter was for him, and Abel went on to discover that his wife had made a scarf for him, alongside a casual set of clothes to wear off duty (he didn't have the heart to tell her he was never really off duty, but perhaps he could wear it when he traveled home). His daughter, on the other hand, had a special gift for him. When he read that she had embroidered handkerchiefs with his name, he looked curiously in the package, but Link had already found the three items, cheeks flushed with cheer as he giggled, showing his father.

Abel stared, blinking, and then also laughed.

The handkerchiefs were indeed embroidered in a brilliant pink (Lyra's favorite color), but instead of Abel being written on them, it simply said Papa.

"Does she even know your name?" Link cackled.

"She knows the right one," Abel answered gently, taking the precious items.

Link happily dug through the package to see if there was anything else and then made a curious sound, noticing an extra parchment. When Abel asked what it was, his answer was a baffled expression that quickly became a strange mix of flustered and touched. Link's eyes widened, eyebrows rising and mouth sealing shut in a tight line before his brow came together and his lips pulled into a strained but genuine smile.

Shaking his head, he tucked the parchment into his belt, ignoring his father, and picked up the package.

Abel raised an eyebrow, clearing his throat.

Sighing, his son said, "She sent something for Mipha."

Abel blinked, not sure what to say, but instead had to laugh again. Lyra had never even met Princess Mipha, but she'd heard about her from Link and Abel, and she'd been fascinated with the Zora people in general, begging constantly to go to the Domain.

"They really do need to meet," Abel noted, though both he and Link knew that was not likely to happen - Link and the Zora princess had been friends, yes, but many years had passed since then. Link took the time to visit the Domain, having grown fond of it, but it still seemed far fetched that the princess and his sister could ever interact. Mipha had no reason to leave the Domain, and Lyra would not stray far from Hateno until she was of age.

His son grew pensive, smiling down at the package in his hands, and then sighed. "Papa... do you..."

Abel waited patiently as Link tried to formulate his query, but after a while the royal knight crossed his arms, quietly telling him to use his words.

Sighing again, Link shook his head, as if to dismiss the matter, and Abel frowned. For the last few years his son had grown progressively quieter, and while it didn't bother Abel all that much, it seemed to be impeding the boy's ability to even express himself. A good knight had to be able to communicate effectively. What Abel had thought to be maturity and stoicism seemed to be turning into a handicap, and it bothered him sometimes.

He wished he knew what was wrong. Link had been on his own for nearly a year now, and he would be turning seventeen soon, making him completely independent. It made the royal knight worry.

"Do I what?" Abel pressed, just trying to drag something out of the boy.

Link bit his lip, swallowed, closed his eyes, and then grew calm. He walked up to his father and hesitated. Abel could see the desire for a hug, but he could see Link holding himself back.

He wasn't seventeen yet.

Gently pulling the package out of Link's hands, Abel dragged his son into a hug, and Link buried his face in his father's chest.

Neither spoke. Neither really knew what to say. But their love was clear enough, and after what felt like an eternity yet still not long enough, Link backed off.