Chapter Text
“I want to make sure I understand,” Sidon said, eyes alight with curiosity. The Zora was mostly healed now, the worst gashes just thin cuts along his scales, the heat of battle long faded. Link sat cross legged on the dirt path, changed into his tunic and some armor with better defense for the journey ahead. “You’ve travelled here from the future to prevent a ritual the Yiga will perform tomorrow night which will lead to your demise if not stopped. And in the time you’ve been here you’ve meddled enough to change the past to the point where you can’t be sure what will occur next, even though failure means your death?” Sidon sounded a bit strangled as he said the last sentence, and Link tensed with guilt as his mistakes were laid out so plainly.
‘It was just a little fire, and it was better they didn’t have those potions!’ Link protested, but he knew it was a flimsy excuse. Sidon gave him a fond smile anyway, and Link’s heart fluttered despite the guilt he felt.
“I don’t worry for your success, I know you will prevail.” Sidon replied, but his tone lilted and Link smirked knowingly. “However, I feel it is best if I accompany you to prevent any further complications.” and the way Sidon’s eyes sparkled gave away how much he wanted his adventure. Link nodded, smiling as Sidon grinned. He wouldn’t have denied him anyway, his best strategy was running in headfirst and setting things on fire, which… hadn’t proved to be the best strategy.
Link would be glad for the help, even if he felt guilt each time Sidon was hurt on his behalf. Sidon was a fierce warrior and having him by his side offered a level of security and comfort Link couldn’t have on his own. Sidon had a way of quieting his anxieties, of bringing out his own fearlessness, and he would need that courage in spades if he were to face these odds. He was confident he had the strength to take on Calamity Ganon, to follow his destiny, but the unpredictability of the Yiga was too much for him alone to handle. Link was not the best when it came to strategy, but Sidon had planned sieges and led battalions--with him by Link’s side, the fight would be far more controlled.
‘I will be glad for your help.’ he signed with a small smile, and Sidon beamed.
“I am at your service,” Sidon said with a smirk and Link batted at his arm playfully, shaking his head.
‘We should hurry, the ritual is tomorrow evening, and Hyrule Field is far.’ Link signed, and Sidon nodded, back to being serious. Link continued to smile slightly, the relief of having Sidon here with him eased the weight on his shoulders and made him feel much calmer. It was easier to be himself in front of the Zora, easier to be brave in battle, easier to calm down when his nerves were buzzing with anxiety. They set out of the forest, staying close and alert as the dark path wound forward. Link doubted there would be another attack, the Yiga had gotten what they’d come for, but he would rather play things safe while he still could.
After some walking the trees parted as their path reunited with the main road to the Domain. The luminous stone lamps that guided the way forward glowed softly in the darkness, and even from here the great spires and bridges of the Domain were bright enough to see. Link pulled out the slate, scanning his map for their next move and biting his lip. They would need to get to the Yiga camp quickly and before daybreak if they wanted to remain hidden, but even if Sidon swam them there it would take too long, and the Zora looked to be about as tired as Link felt. There was a shrine nearby, the one he’d taken when he’d arrived in Lanayru to stay out of sight, but he’d never travelled with someone else before. Would it even work? He glanced at Sidon, who was watching him curiously as he waited for Link to make a decision. If it didn’t work they would just have to swim, so Link figured it was at least worth a shot.
He caught his friend’s attention with a wave as he secured his slate again. ‘You’ve seen me use the shrine in the Domain before, right?’ Link asked, and Sidon’s eyes lit up.
“Yes, it’s quite interesting to watch…” Sidon replied, a smile growing on his face.
‘I’m not sure it will work, but it’s the fastest way to where we’re heading.’ Link explained, and felt warmth bloom in his chest at the excitement the proposition brought Sidon. The Hylian shook his head with a fond huff and led them down a winding path through more trees, keeping up a brisk pace. The path twisted up and down through the mountains, empty enemy camps lining their way. Link had picked off the lizalfos here when he’d been restocking his supplies, what must have been just hours ago in this time. Despite the quiet of the night and the absence of enemies, Link kept his eyes forward and his ears alert for guards, hoping the path out of Zora’s Domain would be unpatrolled this far out. As they were about to round a corner Sidon’s hand grasped his shoulder from behind, halting their approach. Before Link could turn to question, the Zora deftly swung them off the path and into the thick trees. Sidon crouched, pressing Link back against a tree and easily enveloping the small Hylian as they hid. Link’s breath froze in his chest, finding his hands pressed against Sidon’s broad chest, the smooth white scales and muscles flexing beneath them, and he thanked Hylia he remained still as the sounds of a patrol walked past. The gills on Sidon’s sides flared soundlessly as he kept himself silent, and Link gazed up at the Zora, the way the moonlight lit him from above framed him beautifully. Link’s face heated, being pressed so close, the steel in Sidon’s golden eyes as he protected them. When the guard’s steps had finally faded away he felt Sidon relax above him, but they didn’t move away, the Zora’s gaze still flicking around to make sure they wouldn’t be spotted. When he finally looked down at Link there was a curious smile on his face, and the Hylian felt his blush intensify as he was caught staring. The moment ended, Sidon pulling away, and Link wished he could stop himself from the feelings that welled up inside him, the tingling in his fingertips as they yearned for the contact back. Without a word they returned to the path, the shrine in sight up ahead, and Link tried to ignore the smile on Sidon’s face, the eyes he could feel on his back. He would have to apologize to his friend for his reaction, come up with some kind of excuse, something--Link scrubbed at his face in hopes the blush and his reeling thoughts would go away so he could focus once more.
They arrived at the base of the shrine as the moon crested overhead. The night was half over, and Link prayed this would work. He could remember Zelda’s frustration when the slate hadn’t responded to her, and he’d never thought to try transporting more than just himself before. He pulled out the slate and considered his options. The shrine he’d used last night was on the field, far enough away not to be seen from the camp but not with the height they’d want for observation. Other shrines were too close, too far… Link spotted one shrine that would give them the perfect vantage point though, even if it was a little farther than he’d have liked. It would have to do, there just weren’t enough shrines in Hyrule to suit his needs. Link motioned for Sidon to join him on the platform and he bit his lip, looking between the Zora and the activator nervously.
‘I hope this works,’ Link signed finally, and reached for Sidon’s hand. The Zora complied, eyes alight with excitement, and Link tried not to enjoy the feel of their fingers entwined too much as he slid the slate against the activator. The familiar light engulfed him, and Link turned to see Sidon looking around himself with a grin as it enveloped him, too. Link sighed in relief that it worked, holding tightly to Sidon’s hand as the weightlessness took hold and they plunged into darkness. As usual, he couldn’t see or hear anything, the only feeling was the solidness of Sidon’s hand as it gripped his. After several long moments the world pieced itself back together and his feet touched the base of the shrine again. The air was cool and the stars still bright overhead, and Link turned with a smile to find Sidon looking a bit pale. He pulled back his hand to sign, but Sidon waved in reassurance, offering a smile.
“I am fine, my friend, just a little dizzy.” Sidon said, and Link smacked his forehead in realization. Of course Sidon would be dizzy, he’d forgotten to warn him about the effects of the teleportation. He signed out an apology and Sidon waved him off, a sparkle of excitement still clear in his eyes. Link led him forward, through the narrow valley between steep rock faces, and he watched fondly as Sidon’s face broke into an amazed smile.
It had been too long since Link had last visited Satori Mountain, but it hadn’t changed much in the months since. The ground was soft with lush grass, the cherry blossom tree in full bloom, and the still lake reflected the stars above like a mirror. He couldn’t help the pleased smile that came to his face as Sidon looked around, just as beautiful as the scenery.
“Link, this place is wonderful!” Sidon finally exclaimed, fixing the Hylian with a wide grin. Link smiled and shrugged, setting down his things and joining his friend in the center of the clearing. It wasn’t a large area, but the peak wasn’t visible from below, and Link could clearly see the Yiga camp a half mile away. It would do nicely for now, and it was isolated enough that Link felt himself finally begin to relax. The two sat, gazing out on the field. It was so clear, Link could see for miles, and despite the imposing form of Hyrule Castle pulsating nearby it was still remarkably peaceful. After a moment he found his gaze wandering towards his friend, eyes roaming over Sidon’s tall form. A gentle breeze blew past, and Link reached back to untangle the band from his hair. He brushed his fingers through it, getting out the knots with a content sigh. Maybe he would allow himself this moment to finally take a breather, give himself the opportunity to think about something besides his duty, his anxieties…
Sidon was incredible. Link was sure of some things, and of that he was most certain. The Zora Prince was strong, a talented warrior, extremely smart and clever. He had a fanclub for a reason; he wasn’t only charming, he was handsome. And he was so tall; it made Link’s stomach flip when he was reminded of their size difference. Whenever Sidon fixed him with that trademark smile, he felt as if he might melt. The praise, his unwavering faith in Link’s abilities, the way he kept the Hylian Champion grounded, how he sympathized, the way he trusted and cared even though many of his people blamed him for Mipha’s death… At first, Link had waited for the other shoe to drop, but after months he knew that would never come. Sidon was genuine, he meant every word, and most of all he cherished their friendship. A friendship offered to Link when he most needed it, one that had finally given him a place to feel safe. So many things leading to where he was now, sitting beside his closest friend and feeling his heart hammering in his chest. He’d tried to hide it and ignore his feelings, and he felt so dumb for it all. He wished things were different. He knew he’d had something with Mipha, all those years ago, but it had never felt like this. Did Sidon even like men, let alone men of another species? Link’s chest clenched with uncertainty as he played with the hair tie in his lap. He looked back up, done with his circling thoughts, and paused in surprise to see Sidon gazing at him softly.
Link’s eyes were wide and Sidon quickly looked away, a slight blush on his cheeks. He coughed into his fist awkwardly, and Link’s face flushed as well. He watched Sidon play with the silver bracelets around his wrists, an embarrassed chuckle shaking his shoulders.
“I’m sorry for staring, my friend.” Sidon gave Link a small smile, amber eyes sparkling. “I haven’t seen your hair down very often, and… It’s quite nice.”
Link’s face couldn’t get any redder, he was sure. He bit his lip to stifle a smile, signing a quick thanks. ‘I suppose I should apologize too, for staring at you in the woods before.’
Sidon laughed softly, and Link’s heart skipped a beat. “I suppose we’re both guilty, then.”
Link chuckled along soundlessly, sighing in relief. Well, that was that. They were just friends, just close friends, nothing more… They lapsed into silence once more, and Link finally got to his feet to set up camp for the night. He rummaged in his bag, collecting some firewood and supplies for their dinner. The night was pleasant, and as Link started the fire he couldn’t help but steal little glances at Sidon. There was a thoughtful look on the Zora’s face as he watched Link, and the Hylian tried to keep his focus so he wouldn’t accidentally burn himself. Link set up some mushrooms and meat skewers by the fire and watched quietly as the embers rose into the sky. There would be many hours still until sunrise, and they’d have to sleep at some point, but for now he returned to Sidon’s side by the lake.
“Link…” Sidon began, and the Hylian’s ears perked up at the hesitant tone. “Pardon my intrusion, I just couldn’t help but notice. You’ve seemed troubled lately, my friend.” Sidon ran a hand over his head fin with a small smile. “Ever since you returned to the Domain, even now. Is something wrong?”
Link blinked in surprise. ‘Not to avoid the question, but you have seemed troubled too. I’d been meaning to ask the same thing of you.’
Sidon blushed slightly, humming, and Link gave him a puzzled look. After a moment he turned back, seeming to have decided on something, and he scooted a bit closer. “Alright, how about this. If you are willing to share, then so will I, but if you don’t then I won’t.” Link smiled at the playful tone. He sensed there was something more going on beneath it, but he trusted his friend and he longed to help if he could. He wasn’t sure what Sidon had been seeing though, and Link’s heart pounded at the thought that his feelings may have been written on his sleeve the whole time. Link brushed a bit of hair behind his ear as he considered.
‘Sounds fair to me.’ Link signed, despite the way his heart hammered in his chest. Sidon sat back as Link turned better to speak, biting the inside of his cheek. ‘For one, I think you’ll be glad to hear I no longer doubt my ability. I will face Calamity Ganon, and I intend to return to you in one piece, as promised.’ Link started, definitely stalling, but Sidon smiled happily regardless. ‘All this--’ Link gestured widely, encompassing the situation as best he could, and Sidon smiled in understanding. ‘It’s a lot to process. I’m worried about the Yiga, the ritual, the future…’ Link bit his lip as he struggled to find the words. ‘I worry about what will happen, when it’s all over.’
Sidon sat up straighter, and Link caught the way his eyes sparkled in the firelight. “What do you mean, what will happen?”
‘I mean, with us.’ Link finally managed, his face heating. ‘You had me promise to return to you in one piece. When I do, then what? Hyrule will be safe, I guess I’ll be free to do as I wish, but you… You have a duty to your people.’ Link sighed, stomach twisting as Sidon’s eyebrows raised. ‘I don’t fit into that, do I?’
Link felt his throat becoming sore with emotion and he huffed in frustration, but Sidon had come closer, his eyes seeming to burn with intensity. Links hands faltered several times, wanting to take back what he’d said, or continue, or apologize, and eventually Sidon took them within his own. Link gazed up into his friend’s deep amber eyes and tried not to acknowledge the hope that flared in his chest.
“I think it’s my turn,” Sidon’s voice shook slightly, and Link stilled in anticipation. “I am sorry for worrying you, my friend, I promise you there’s no reason to be concerned. I… spoke with my father today. I’ve been speaking with him over several months.” Sidon took a breath and gave Link a shaky, uncertain smile. “You see, there is someone I have fallen for, and I needed his blessing to pursue my feelings.”
Link held his breath as Sidon’s hands squeezed his slightly.
“Link, I have fallen deeply for you.” Sidon’s voice trembled, and Link blinked in surprise. “I couldn’t help myself, after I fought by your side there was no denying it. You’ve stolen my heart.”
Slowly, a grin spread across Link’s face, and Sidon smiled back hopefully. His hands shook, but thankfully the sign he intended to give wouldn’t involve fingerspelling. Sidon watched as Link crossed his hands over his chest, frozen in place. Sidon mimicked the motion, seeming slightly confused, but then realization dawned on his face.
‘I love you.’ Link signed, smiling wider than he had in ages, and Sidon let out a shout of joy, wrapping Link in a tight embrace.
Sidon held him close, and Link felt as if his heart were about to burst from his chest. It felt different than all the other times he’d been held by Sidon, each point of contact buzzing. Link pulled back to look into the Zora’s eyes and smiled, reaching up to cup his face. Sidon leaned into the touch and Link’s face ached with how much he’d been grinning the last few hours. If this is what awaited him after he defeated Calamity Ganon, he wished he could race over to Hyrule Castle right now to finish the fight.
After a few moments they pulled away, but sat close enough that their arms touched. Link let out a sigh of relief, watching the stars twinkle above, and Sidon’s eyes were alight with the same affection Link had been noticing recently. He felt warm and peaceful, and Link wished the night would never end. Eventually he had to return to the fire to finish their dinner, and Sidon followed to sit beside him as they enjoyed their meal. Something slowly dawned on Link as he ate, and quickly he turned to Sidon.
‘You said you asked the King for permission?’ Link’s hands fumbled over the words, and Sidon made a noise of surprise as he understood.
“That’s right, I suppose I didn’t explain.” Sidon hummed, a slight blush creeping onto his cheeks again. “Well, you see, when a member of the royal family wishes to court someone, they must receive permission from the King. I’ve been speaking with my father for a few months now, and with the seriousness of the situation I felt like now was the time to confess to you.”
Link could read the way Sidon picked his words carefully, skirting around the obvious. He could very well die in the next few days, and though neither of them wanted to entertain the idea, of course Sidon would want to have the chance to tell Link how he felt before anything bad happened. Link felt a pit in his stomach, knowing just how badly things had gone before he’d entered the Temple of Time, and how Sidon hadn’t had the chance to confess then. Maybe he was being selfish for not wanting to share how he felt with Sidon before he fought Calamity Ganon; he hadn’t even considered if Sidon felt the same.
‘What did he say?’ Link asked, burying the old guilt.
“He gave his blessing.” Sidon sighed. “But he did warn me now might not be the best time. If I’m being honest, I didn’t intend to confess tonight. I decided I’d wait until you returned, so I made you promise you would… I’m glad I did though. There may have never been a ‘right’ time to do so, besides now.”
Link nodded fiercely in agreement, and Sidon laughed softly. ‘I felt the same way. I’ve had feelings for you for a long time, but I didn’t want to tell you until after I defeated Ganon…’
Sidon nodded as Link trailed off. The future was still uncertain. They would have a battle ahead of them tomorrow, Link would take on Calamity Ganon shortly after, and after that it was still very unclear. But as Link slowly entwined his fingers with Sidon’s, he felt there was one thing he could be certain of.
---
Link woke as dawn broke over Hyrule Field, the morning light pale and chilly. He found himself pressed against Sidon’s chest, the Zora surprisingly warm and comforting. With a smile, Link carefully wriggled out of the Prince’s hold and crossed the dewy grass to peer over the camp below. They were quite far, but fortunately there was no fog this morning blocking their view. The Yiga camp was still, tents dark and fire completely out. Now that it was day, Link could make out the smouldering wreck that was once the supplies tent. The Yiga had salvaged what they could, and the three chests now sat in the open, two guards continuing to stand watch. He knew which tent he’d been kept in, and worried his lip wondering how they’d managed to subdue past Link without poison. He hoped none of it had survived the fire, and the ropes he’d been bound with had been too tight for him to escape from regardless…
Link continued to assess silently as he heard Sidon join him, both watching the camp warily as the sun continued to rise.
“No changes.” Sidon said, his voice scratchy with sleep in a way that made Link smile despite himself. “We should discuss our plan.”
Link nodded, finally leaving his perch to sit with Sidon by the embers of the fire. He pulled out the slate and brought up the map once more, showing Sidon each mark and explaining the timing as best he could. He nodded along, a serious look on his face as they discussed strategy.
‘Attacking their camp gives them the advantage,’ Link reasoned. ‘We are far outnumbered there, but if we strike along their path, or once they arrive at the ritual site, there will be fewer and we will be on equal ground.’
“What will happen if… you see yourself?” Sidon asked with an awkward smile, and Link felt the same weirdness when thinking about the past version of himself.
‘I’m not sure. I was warned against showing myself to anyone, but I have a feeling something bad will happen if I meet my past self.’ Link couldn’t wrap his head around it, and his memories were no help, but just the thought of seeing the other Link set his nerves on edge. ‘I think it’s unavoidable though, considering our options.’
“You may be right,” Sidon said with a displeased hum. “I simply hope whatever happens will not be disastrous.”
The sky was turning to pastels as Link felt the anxiety return, buzzing beneath his skin insistently. He’d returned to his perch to keep watch as the camp bustled with activity, using his slate to zoom in on the movements. It was all as he’d remembered so far and with the sun about to set overhead it would only be a matter of time until the Yiga made their way to the ritual site. Link worried his lip as he waited impatiently, feeling the Master Sword hum against his back with insistence. The air felt thick and it set him on edge. Everything looked the same but his instincts were screaming at him in warning. There was something dark at play, something different, but no matter how closely he looked he saw no changes. Sidon approached slowly, coming to rest at his side with a knowing gaze.
“How are you feeling?” he asked softly, and Link shrugged. They watched the camp in silence for a moment, and eventually Link found his body relaxing somewhat. He sighed, finally turning to Sidon.
‘There’s something wrong.’ Link signed, and Sidon tilted his head. Link faltered, glancing away. ‘I mean, I think there is. It feels off. Different.” Link huffed, unable to explain, and Sidon gave him an encouraging smile.
“It’s nearly time to go, is it not?” he asked, and Link nodded grimly. Sidon stretched out a hand and tentatively took Link’s, bringing it towards himself. The Prince placed a gentle kiss to Link’s knuckles, making the Hylian melt slightly as his gaze met sincere amber eyes. Sidon pulled back with a smile, determined, and struck his familiar encouraging pose. “Then we must be off, but do not worry. You are a strong and skilled warrior, and I have the utmost faith in you. My love, we will succeed.”
Link couldn’t help the small smile that came to his face as Sidon grinned honestly. The plan was solid, he knew it by heart, he was as prepared as he could get. Despite the anxiety prickling at his skin he nodded firmly in return and set to work gathering the supplies they’d need. It would be a tough battle, but they would succeed. Link repeated the encouraging words in his head and tried to push away the humming of his sword and the insistence of his instincts. Whatever trouble laid ahead, whatever trap or scheme, he would face it head on. This was his only chance, but he wouldn’t need another. It wasn’t that he couldn’t fail--he knew he would succeed. Link glanced over at Sidon, the Zora strapping a spear and some potions to his belt, and he felt his resolve set.
The sun was beginning its descent in earnest as the two finished their preparations and made their way back to the shrine. Link fiddled with the slate, triple checking he’d selected the correct location before turning to look up at Sidon. The Zora had steel in his eyes, and Link bathed in the confidence he radiated, letting himself draw on it. They clasped hands and Link activated the shrine. This shrine was much closer to the Sacred Ground Ruins and completely exposed, but the Yiga hadn’t left the camp yet and they would have enough time to hide. The trip felt quicker than usual to Link as his heart beat solidly in his chest, and he turned to Sidon to make sure he was alright as the world rematerialized. Sidon waved him off with a reassuring smile and they took stock of their surroundings.
Katah Chuki was an exposed position, but it was near the far left of Hyrule Field and would put them closer to the ruins the Yiga would be headed to. Hyrule Castle glowed menacingly at their backs as they dashed towards the platform, the sky a mix of purples and pinks overhead. From this distance the Yiga camp was nothing but specks on a hill, looking far more like a Bokoblin base. The anxiety had lessened, giving way to adrenaline that pushed his body forward, Sidon following closely behind. They stopped at the back of the ruins, the platform high enough to hide them as they crouched, and the two took a moment to catch their breath. He brought out the slate again, navigating through the map and glancing quickly over the edge of the platform towards the camp to take stock.
‘All clear.’ Link motioned, and Sidon nodded before looking over the platform himself. The Zora had much better eyesight, able to see much farther than a quarter mile with ease. Sidon squinted carefully as he looked out.
“There’s movement at the camp. It appears they’ve gathered in front of the leader in front of her tent.” Sidon described, and Link nodded stiffly. “Now they’re filing down the hill.”
‘It’s the same as before.’ Link replied, but the hair prickled on his neck as if to remind him how different it all felt. He wasn’t so injured or drugged the first time not to have felt a presence as evil as this, and he was sure it wasn’t coming from the castle. Link rubbed his neck roughly to ease the dread, body tense.
In just a few minutes they’d be storming across the field to meet the Yiga halfway. The leader was at the front of the procession like last time, and Link knew he would have to be quick to take her down like they’d planned. Once she was out of the way maybe this feeling would dissipate, or at least that’s what Link hoped as they readied themselves to go. Sidon turned to him with a firm smile, hand resting on his shoulder.
“It will be alright.” Sidon’s tone left no room for argument, and Link nodded firmly as they parted. Link took a deep breath, grounded himself, and then sprung over the edge of the platform to run towards the Yiga.
He heard Sidon following as close as he could, but Link ran fast and sure as he drew his sword. His heartbeat pounded in his ears as the Yiga grew closer and closer, the leader finally looking up to see him racing towards her. She shouted something he couldn’t make out and he jumped, sword raised to slice through her from above. The Yiga behind her stepped away and Link’s sword clashed against the leader’s windcleaver as she pulled it from beneath her cloak. The crawling of dread beneath his skin was impossible to ignore now that he was blade locked with the leader, her aura absolutely poisonous. The air was electric, and Link barely noticed the fight around him as Sidon caught up, focussed on the masked woman before him.
“I was hoping it was you,” she sneered, her voice dripping with malice. The windcleaver finally tilted away, and Link sprung back to disengage.
They watched each other closely, Link lowering into a practiced stance as the leader stood straight and observant. He knew better than to attack first, but the longer he waited the more insistently the Master Sword hummed in his hands. The fighting around them was fierce but uncoordinated, and Sidon was making quick work of any Yiga who attacked him. They all avoided Link and the leader, giving their fight a wide berth as the two simply stood in silence. Finally, the windcleaver barely twitched, and Link rolled to the side as the air sliced past. He could hear the leader’s faint laughter as he rushed at her, and as his sword met her side it sliced through smoke. Link turned quickly to watch his surroundings until she reappeared a few meters away, windcleaver raised in front of her.
Their fight was slow and calculated, each movement serving to size the other up. Link knew there was an ulterior motive as they moved further from the main fray, but Sidon was holding his own with ease and Link couldn’t let his concentration shift for too long. Neither of them landed a single blow, but only Link was truly trying to at this stage. It was futile, he knew--there was no way he’d injure the Yiga until she wanted to fight--but his anxiety thrummed in his veins as they grew nearer to the platform. When the leader vanished again Link ran forwards, the platform nearly in front of him when he turned back. The leader reappeared with her back turned and Link swung his sword towards her, heart pounding. She was too quick again, windcleaver clanging solidly to block him just in time. She turned, chuckling darkly, and then her blade pushed back against his with surprising force.
Link was quick, but her movements were fast and hard and each one drove him back slightly with their force. Her laughter grew louder as Link deflected the heavy blows, the windcleaver leaving deep gashes in the earth at his sides. Another blocked slash pushed his feet in the dirt until his heels met stone. The platform was just behind him now, and Link’s blocks turned urgent as he tried to prevent them from reaching the ruins. It was no use, and after another few minutes of fighting they were both on the steps, swords sweeping in quick, deadly arcs. He gave in, springing back from the leader to regain his energy, and he watched as her shoulders shook with laughter.
“I’ve been waiting for this fight.” she said, voice dark and filled with mirth. Link tensed, sensing a shift in the heavy air around them. “My Master wanted me to follow his rules, but you have changed things, and now…” the leader cradled her blade. “Now I get to personally finish you off.”
Link readied himself for the next series of attacks, but none came. The leader pulled the mask over her head and threw it off the platform, her grin wide and eyes a deep purple. Malice left spiderwebbing lines across her face and neck, and Link watched in horror as her voice turned dark, strange words falling from her lips. Link rushed forwards, sword clashing against hers, but it was too late. A purple barrier formed around the platform, trapping them inside, and Link glared up into the leader’s possessed eyes. She laughed darkly, and the fight began again with renewed vigor.
She’d been playing with him before, he knew, but now her blows were hard and deadly. Each clash sent sparks flying, reverberating up his arms and chattering his teeth as he bared them. The leader only smiled, her movements easy as she deflected his blows and dealt impossibly strong ones in return. She was not large enough to attack him in this way, and Link knew now why his nerves had been so haywire. He’d taken their ritual scrolls, but only the ones he found in his hasty search. He had no idea what she’d done, but he knew how malice felt, how Ganon’s influence poisoned, and he felt him here now as he fought this Yiga. Link was growing tired and frustrated, but he held fast and kept pace. He knew one wrong move could be his last, and the way the leader’s lips curled told him she knew the same.
Link caught sight of an opening and took it quickly, sword hissing as it made contact with her side. She shrieked, the sound garbled and foreign, and vanished. Link tried to catch his breath, eyes darting around urgently as he waited for her to reappear. He felt a stinging pain on his shoulder before he heard her, and Link quickly rolled to the side before he took more than a cut. He crouched defensively as the leader materialized, blood dripping onto the ground from her side as her feet hovered inches above the ground. Her hair had come free of its ties, floating around her in dark waves, and Link’s blood ran cold.
“You will not escape me this time, Champion.” she growled, and Link felt certain he was no longer fighting the Yiga leader. Her form surged forward and Link barely managed to dodge before her blade pierced the stone like butter beside him. He thrust up, Master Sword catching her shoulder, but there was no reaction as her blood sprayed.
Link continued to dodge and land small blows, her form wild and open, but he couldn’t get close enough to deal anything final without risking serious injury. The rage in the air was heavy and Link’s skin seared as the hostile magic surrounded them. Even if she was possessed by malice, the leader was still a Sheikah, and Link fought through his weariness with the hope he’d be able to finish this fight soon. His form was getting sloppier as he grew exhausted however, and small cuts began to litter his arms and legs as he was too slow to fully dodge in time. The woman cackled as she landed a rather deep cut on his leg and quickly swung her blade around to deal another. Link swung up to block and the force of her blade was enough to send him off balance. He took a step back to steady himself with the newly injured leg and winced as it crumpled under him. She laughed louder and her blade crashed down over him, his arms trembling with the force of holding her blade still over his head. She forced him down further and he couldn’t find the strength to press back, eventually falling onto his back as she knelt over him. Her legs pinned him to the ground as his arms shook to keep her sword aloft, but with each second he was losing ground. Her face twisted into dark joy as her blade neared his throat, the Master Sword glowing furiously as Link grunted with the effort of keeping her back.
He was tired and battered, but the blood that dripped onto the stone beneath him was not his own. As she knelt over him he could clearly see the cuts he’d delivered, much deeper than he’d thought. There was blood smeared over the stone around them from the fight, and he knew very little of it was his. She was Sheikah, flesh and blood, one final blow would surely end this fight and yet he was the one pinned beneath her. Even with the power of Ganon’s malice fueling her, Link had defeated every blight, purified every Divine Beast. The Master Sword was nearly blinding as it grew nearer to him, and Link knew suddenly what he was missing.
He wasn’t the only one with tricks up their sleeve.
Link reached down within himself, and the Champion’s powers resonated within him. The Triforce glowed brightly on his hand. He knew how to use these abilities, and yet here he was, fighting as if he were an ordinary Hylian. His enemies would never give him a fair fight, so why should he play fair? Link’s lips crooked into a smile as he drew on his power, and Revali’s Gale pushed him upwards. His back and legs lifted off the ground and before the leader could react he was kicking her off and turning through the air. He landed on the other side of the platform with a flip, feeling the energy of the Triforce rushing through him. The leader scowled, and Link finally noticed the way her arms shook with effort, how her stance favored one leg. He felt himself surge forward, Master Sword cutting the air, and the leader shrieked in pain as he connected. The sword plunged into her stomach, and Link heard a clatter as the windcleaver fell from her hands.
He sprung back, freeing his sword as the breath rattled out of the leader. Link watched, sword ready, as the woman teetered in place.
“You will die at my hands, hero…” her voice was strained, malice melting off of her as the barrier around them shimmered faintly. “I will…” the leader fell to the ground, utterly still, and Link waited as the last of the spell broke away.
The barrier fell, and within moments the body of the leader crumpled to black dust and disappeared. Link let out the breath he’d been holding, finally relaxing his stance as he looked around. The fight across the field was still going, but only two Yiga remained, locked in battle with Sidon and the small form of the other Link. He walked to the edge of the platform, intending to wait rather than disrupt the careful fight. He knew Sidon would be fine, and as he came to a stop the other Link finished off the Yiga he’d been fighting. The body fell, and as it did Link met his own blue eyes across the field. He panicked, trying to tear his gaze away, but it was as if his body had frozen in place.
The fighting stopped. The sun halted its descent, clouds stuck in place, air utterly still. Sidon’s spear was frozen a foot from piercing the Yiga’s side, their sickle raised overhead to slash back. There was a faltering inside him, his heart mid-beat. His soul seemed to pulse, that light inside him where each power was held, where the Triforce latched on, and he felt it tug outwards. Before his eyes, the other Link vanished, and the world came crashing into one. Memories, of a kidnapping, of fighting the Yiga who captured him, of a leader who seemed uninterested in him despite having ordered for his capture. He saw himself, rushing towards the leader as he was manhandled across the field by two soldiers. He fought beside Sidon, knowing all along something was deeply wrong, as he caught glimpses of a fight across the field. Knowing his destiny had split and led him here, now, but what would come next?
Link blinked and the world was dark. The memories faded to black before his eyes as the timelines merged, his chest aching as he rejoined with a slightly different self. The worries, the self doubt, the uncertainty was at the front of his mind once more, but from the darkness sprung another memory. Under the clear night sky, fire crackling as he glanced at the Zora beside him.
“You will succeed.” Sidon said, and his voice was so sure Link nearly believed it himself.
The memory faded, replaced with pain and fear under a canopy of green. The Great Deku Tree rose above him as Link said his goodbyes, Sidon’s eyes filled with determination, worry, regret.
“I have the utmost faith in you, Link.” Sidon’s hand on his shoulder, firm, reassuring.
Just hours before, perched on Satori Mountain as his anxiety ate away at him. Sidon held his hand so gently, pressed his lips to his knuckles as if he was something to be cherished.
“You are a strong and skilled warrior.” Sidon had meant it, and with each memory the worries faded away.
Link opened his eyes to a dark blue sky, clouds stained with oranges and pinks as sunset faded away. It would be a Blood Moon tonight, but it was still only dusk as Link slowly sat himself up. He felt a bit dizzy and he rubbed the back of his head gingerly. He had to stop getting himself knocked out, this was truly ridiculous. Across the field, Sidon’s spear finally pierced the Yiga’s side, and the fight drew to a close. Link got to his feet and walked towards the Zora, smile slowly taking over his face as Sidon straightened up and noticed his approach. They met halfway, and before Link could worry over his friend’s condition he was scooped into a fierce hug, feet dangling above the ground. Link’s arms wrapped around Sidon and he laughed, feeling the last of his tension give way. They were safe, he had defeated the Yiga leader, and now he could enjoy himself for just a moment under the night sky with his…
Link looked up to meet Sidon’s sparkling amber eyes and placed a small kiss on his crest, smiling as the Zora hummed happily. When he pulled away Sidon was grinning wide, and Link felt his heart flutter.
“I knew you could do it,” Sidon’s voice was proud, and he placed a kiss on Link’s forehead. “My love.”
His love.