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Chapter Text

Chapter Text

        Link stood, staring at the spot where Demise once stood. Smoke billowed from the place as the endless sky cleared. The darkness siphoned within the Master Sword. For a moment, he was lost. Floating through those clouds, the endless serenity where Demise cast his final words unto him. He dared to feel at peace. 

The Sword that Seals Darkness gleamed in its pedestal, shimmering the same as the tears falling down Zelda’s cheeks. Their final goodbyes to dear friends rested with her, but the heart still yearned for them. Link turned, his own eyes watery as he faced Groose and Zelda. 

It was over. They were going to be okay, or so he dared to hope. 

They were silent after exiting the temple, still and not looking at anything for a long moment, everything that just transpired playing on loop in their minds. The silence was broken by a weak sob, and Groose was pulling Zelda and Link into his arms. Zelda didn’t hesitate to grasp both his and Link’s tunics, hiding her face as she cried.

For a moment, Link was confused, for in all his travels he had been denied the comfort of being held, before melting into it. Groose never took himself to be the hugging type- he associated that with the young, clingy blonde who was always sleeping in, but after that? He needed physical reassurance. 

Zelda missed this, oh so dearly. Impa was lovely company, of course, but she had a mission, and they were losing time as they traveled. She missed simply being allowed to stand still, for just a moment, and feel the world move around her without that sense of imminent doom. To be in the arms of those she fought with, protected, trusted and loved. 

They stayed there for a long while, holding each other on the surface, finally allowed to feel without fear of being weak, of being caught off guard.

They weren’t okay yet, but they would be.

      Link watched Zelda rush to hold her father, the older man misty eyed as he held her as tightly as possible. Groose remained with an arm over Link’s shoulder, despite the confused look Cawlin gave them. Truthfully, it was for both of them. As they began their ascent to Skyloft, Link began to feel the pain of his journey set in.

Exhaustion weighed on him, his bruises went unhealed due to his lack of potions, and his arms ached . Had Crimson not been such a reliable flier, he very well could have slipped straight off her. Zelda and Groose noticed because, upon landing, his legs finally gave out and he fell to the dirt. Groose scooped him up before Zelda could even ask him to.

And for Groose, being able to hold tight to Link provided him this strange new comfort he hadn’t felt before visiting the Surface. It showed that he was alright, that Link was alright, and that Zelda was alright. They weren’t missing, they were within reach and sight. 

The Headmaster offered for him to leave and go rest whilst he and Zelda discussed what happened, but there was not a chance in the Silent Realms he would be separated from her so soon. So, Zelda and the Headmaster spoke while Link dozed in and out of consciousness on the floor, supported by only pillows and Groose.

He didn’t remember when the talk ended, or being carried into his own room, or being pressed between Zelda and Groose as they finally get a chance to rest. He did remember a spike of pain shooting up his arm, still covered by his bracers and gloves, and folding it closer to his chest defensively before sleep claimed him.

      After assuring Link and Zelda he would be just across the hall, within shouting distance, Groose pulled himself from their pile. What would have been jealousy was replaced with a fond smile as he watched the two instantly twine together, Zelda waving at him before resting her chin atop Link’s head. When did his adoration for Zelda expand to include Link as well?

That, he decided, was a crisis to have later. Right now, he wanted to change into something more comfortable. He expected his room to feel strange, maybe a little foreign after so much time on the Surface, but he did not expect to walk in and find Cawlin standing in front of his mirror. Groose blinked, slowly, as they met eyes through the reflection and Cawlin jumped, turning.

“Groose!” He yelped, an embarrassing hitch to his voice as he tried to take on a better stance. Groose raised a brow, examining his room. The bed was unkempt, clothes and papers were strewn about, and it was decidedly not as he left it.  

“What are you doin’?” He asked, narrowing his eyes as he leaned forward, arms crossed. Cawlin had the nerve to look affronted, huffing and puffing out his chest. As if he was supposed to be in here. As if it didn’t seem like he had been living in Groose’s room .

“I’m just standing here! What’s got you all upset?” He grumbled, and Groose felt his eye twitch.

“Looks to me you were doin’ more than standin’ while I was gone.” Cawlin flinched, eyes darting around the room at his mess. He opened and closed his mouth, mind rushing to find an excuse, before he glared right back.

“What was I supposed to do?! You weren’t here, so it was free for the taking!” He finally spat. Groose felt himself still. For a very long time, Cawlin, Stritch, and himself had been a trio. He was the leader, taking care of their issues in return for their loyalty in his pranks and schemes. He considered them a group. He considered them friends.

But the instant he leaves, Cawlin moves into his room- and for what? Because it’s bigger? Because he didn’t want to share with Stritch? 

“Why?” He couldn’t stop himself from blurting out, and the shorter boy looked at him dubiously.

“Are you kidding? This room is the best in this place, and you just took it! You would have done the exact same thing!” He cried, and Groose furrowed his brow. 

“We drew straws , idiot! It was random!” He snapped, but considered his words. Would he have done the same? He certainly didn’t when Zelda went missing, nor did he when Link disappeared straight after her, rushing back and forth from town to the Surface. Besides, it was true. They drew straws for who got what room, and the only reason the divider was so stretched out in Groose’s room was for all his exercise equipment. 

Hell, he asked first, and got both of them to agree as long as they could hang in his room whenever they wanted!

Groose wondered if before if he would have done the same, and couldn’t help but feel like he wouldn’t. Maybe it was his new outlook on life and his friendships, maybe it was morals, but he honestly didn’t think that if Cawlin had a bigger room and went missing, he would simply move in.

Cawlin was still yammering on, throwing insults at Link and describing what happened while he was gone, but Groose wasn’t listening. He felt cold as he realized that someone he had considered his friend since they were children wasn’t really his friend at all. He shook his head, trying to shake away his thoughts, and Cawlin grunted.

“Are you even LISTENING? What is even with you? First you get all lame after Zelda disappears, and now you’re all buddy buddy with that loser Link, and you’re not even acting like yourself!” He cried out, and Groose glowered. He tried to form words to voice his frustration, his anger, his slight hurt- but nothing came. He flung open his closet, only to find it full of Cawlin’s clothes. If looks could kill, the short boy would have fallen dead on the spot.

Weakly, he pointed to a hamper in the corner, filled to overflowing with Groose’s possessions and clothes. He huffed, grabbed it, and stormed out. He didn’t know what to think, he didn’t want to think. He dropped the hamper in Link’s room and rejoined the pair on the bed. 

      The world was dark. Link watched the outstretched hand reach for him, the terrified face of Zelda burnt into his mind as she fell. Their loftwings were gone, it was only them. Falling as rain pelted their faces and wind stung their eyes. He couldn’t tell if he was crying or not, could barely feel his fingers with how cold he was, but he kept straining, reaching. 

“You were late.” The voice rang out, mocking him. It was Impa’s words, but the voice was distorted, layered in horrendous ways and drawing out slowly. He flinched, hand closing around the air as Zelda disappeared and in his hands was a sword. He turned, facing the true form of Demise.

His strange, layered scales covered his body and his hair flared bright with impassioned flames. Link brought up his sword, prepared for the lightning to fall onto his blade, and it did. Oh, it did. Everything hurt, he screamed as he flung his sword forward, praying to hit anything vital of the god before him. As he swung, Demise laughed, dark and low, and the world filled with light.

There was a soft hum, the sweet words of the Goddess’s Ballad rang in his ears, pulling him from the nightmare and into Zelda’s arms. He sighed, furling closer and feeling Groose at his back, apparently having rejoined them. Sleeping used to come easy to him, exhaustion bringing him into a peaceful rest. Now, not even exhaustion could grant him reprise. Zelda continued to hum, and Link stared at nothing, longing for a true sleep to come for him once more.

Chapter Text

      Zelda sighed, staring ahead at basically nothing. Well, she could be staring at Link’s wall, but honestly the wall was boring. She had things to do, but she couldn’t move. No when on either side of her was a clingy mechanic and a clingy knight. And it was so comfortable too, she really didn’t want to move. 

Groose was awake, propped behind her and Link was on top of her, dozing. Truly, there was nowhere she would rather be, but anxiety lingered within her. Her father promised to take care of explaining the surface to the villagers and dealing with their reactions. Honestly, she was nervous they wouldn’t take kindly to her idea, but she had to. Something was looming on the horizon, and Skyloft would be targeted. That was all she knew.

So, she had to talk to the knights, talk to the merchants, talk to anyone with a skill or knack for building, and make sure Groose and Link were alright and recovering as best they could. She sighed, leaning back to look at Groose.

“What? Can’t wake him up without your bird?” He teased, and she scoffed, shaking her head. Leaning over Link’s face, she squished his cheeks together. He grumbled; a single eye sliding open. The smile he gave her was soft and dopey and made her heart flutter, cheeks warming. Despite being woken up, he melted back into her lap, hands laying over hers as they simply stared for a moment.

“We have things to do.” Zelda murmured, and he closed his eyes, freeing a hand to fumble around. It ended up in Groose’s, and he nodded. Sluggishly, he pulled himself up and out of bed. Zelda winced, noticing he was still in his uniform, bracers, chainmail, all of it.

“Oh, you should change.” She said as he grabbed his hat, pulling it on. He cast a glance over his shoulder. The perpetual lines under his eyes became more prominent when he smiled softly at her.

“After work?” It was posed as a question, and she knew if she told him to do it now he would. The ache in her heart returned, pained that she still held this sway over him after using him, forcing him into a plan she didn’t even remember making. Even things as simple as this, he would sway to her will no matter what. It touched her. It scared her. She smiled back, shrugging.

“Up to you.” Came her reply, as she and Groose got up, the taller man stretching and groaning loudly. Link considered for a short moment.

“After work.” He decided, before wincing as Groose cracked his neck.

“Alrighty. What’s on the schedule, Zel?” He prompted, and Zelda smiled softly at the pair, absently tying her hair into it’s usual style from before. She had managed to change after talking to her father, her familiar pink dress a welcome comfort, a slightly heavier fabric to keep the cold away from her.

“First, I should tell you two.” She steeled herself, fiddling with her fingers, but she knew they would believe her.

“I don’t know how to describe it, but I feel like Skyloft is in danger. I- I know we planned to explore the Surface more, but I think we should try and move all of us down there.” She looked up, trying to gauge their reactions. Link offered a nod and smile, and Groose looked relieved. He had missed Skyloft, sure, but the Surface truly felt like home to him.

“What kinda danger? Your goddess sense tingling?” Groose teased, and she let out a surprised laugh, covering her mouth. She nodded as Link snorted.

“Something like that- but I would like to keep that from the others. I haven’t even told Father. It might be best to try and spare people the fear, as much as possible at least. Just learning the Surface is real wil take them some getting used to.” Link nodded in agreement. People got stressed over the smallest of things- they probably would be wildly confused to learn about sand. And lava. Stritch and Beedle would probably like the bugs though.

“So, the academy go-ers and knights are first?” Groose concluded, and Zelda nodded.

“Yes! I asked Father to gather them by the sparring hall, so that’s our first stop.” She opened the door, followed by Link and Groose, and nearly tripped over the figure passing by at the same time. Link was steadying her in an instant as the figure yelped, jumping back on his own.

“Oh! Zelda! I’m so sorry!” Fledge cried, worriedly looking over her. She relaxed instantly- Fledge never meant any harm, and was one of the sweetest people in Skyloft. He fidgeted with his blue scarf, glancing at Link with a quick, soft smile, before facing her again.

“I was just heading to the sparring hall! You’re coming too, right?” 

“Of course. We have a lot to discuss.” Zelda hummed, and Link nodded, slinging an arm over Fledge’s shoulders. He looked at the boy with such fondness, easily chatting with him as they walked. Zelda noticed that Fledge seemed far more confident than when she was last here. He was taller, broader, and smiled easier. He seemed to be happier too, content with himself in a way she hadn’t seen before. Something told her Link had something to do with it.

Groose also seemed to notice, not that he pointed it out. After all, he was kind’ve at fault for a lot of the bullying that made Fledge so nervous and flighty. They exited together, and Zelda was only slightly nervous to find everyone already present in a rather large circle. 

The knight captain, Eagus, was also present, leaning against the door and watching the group approach with a raised brow. Karane brightened, waving brightly at Zelda and Pipit grinned, arm over her shoulder. Strich and Cawlin were also standing nearby, but Groose refused to look towards them. Zelda glanced at Link, and he smiled, leaving Fledge’s side to wrap an arm around her waist, squeezing her slightly. Groose shot her a crooked grin and a thumbs up. Goddess, she hated public speaking. 

“Everyone,” She called out, quickly garnering the attention of the group. “You might have noticed I was gone for quite some time. And that Link and Groose also seemed to have disappeared.” She began.

“The truth is, I fell below the cloud barrier. The place in the old stories, the Surface, is real. I’ve seen it, Link has thoroughly explored it, and Groose has lived there.” The disbelieving scoff from Cawlin didn’t stop her, shutting her eyes against them.

“For so long now, we’ve lived in Skyloft, but there is an entire world down there to explore. Birds that can fit in the palm of your hand, creatures that burrow underground, stones that allow the distant past to be seen! It’s incredible.” Her excitement seeped into her voice, but she quickly schooled it away.

“I asked you here because you have attended the academy, trained to become knights, and are likely the best equipped to help further our knowledge of the Surface. We want to ensure it is a safe place, learn as much as we can, and hopefully, create a home there.” Silence ruled the group, before Cawlin stepped forward.

“You want us to BELIEVE that? Are you insane?!” He squawked, and Zelda narrowed her eyes. 

“You’re crazy! This is so stupid! You can’t seriously think we’re going to-”

“Those pillars of light,” Interrupted Pipit, leaning forward. “That leads you down, doesn’t it? I always thought it was weird to see Link flying to and from them so often.” Karane nodded thoughtfully. 

“What?!” Wailed the short boy, but Karane interrupted him.

“I mean, have you seen that plant Professor Owlan has? He told me Link brought it up from the surface. Nothing I’VE ever seen before.”

“Oh. Like that mole man who helps Kina.” Mumbled Strich, getting a betrayed look from Cawlin. Zelda couldn’t help but smile, they were taking it far better than she had expected. Eagus nodded.

“The Headmaster filled me in when he called for this meeting. I think we can manage, if we get a bit of sword practice first.” The captain decided, and Cawlin grabbed at his own hair.

“Y-You’re all crazy! You just BELIEVE them?! I want PROOF!” He screeched, and Link leaned forward, a devious glint in his eyes.

“Jump down with me.” He said blatantly, and Cawlin went wide eyed and still.

“If there’s nothing there, your bird will catch you. If there is something there, we’re not lying.” His reasoning was a bit…dramatic, but it got a small chuckle from Groose. Cawlin sputtered, upset at the laughter, face red. 

“FINE! I’ll show you all!” He rushed off, towards the academy, mumbling to himself. Strich watched him leave, glancing between the group and the small boy, before shrugging. 

“Well? When do we drop?” Karane asked, an adventurous glint shining in her eyes as she stood up taller.

      With the knights out of the way, and apparently eager to throw themselves to the surface below, Zelda felt more confident with the rest of her tasks. Link had been, very obviously, busy both here and on the Surface during his adventure. Almost everyone knew him and had something to thank him for, which he just brushed it off with a weak smile. Zelda decided he was too humble for his own good, and would work on changing that.

“Uncle Link!” A sudden, high cheer came from behind them, making Link jump, turning around and barely being able to catch a young girl in his arms. She giggled brightly, holding tightly to him with a smile. Zelda noticed, shining around one of her ears, was Link’s old blue earring. His other remained just behind his new red ones. Link sighed, holding Kukiel carefully with a soft grin. He always did have a soft spot for kids.

“Ah! Sorry, Link! Kukiel has been missing you.” Called Jakamar, jogging up to them. Link shrugged as Kukiel kicked her feet with a sweet smile. 

“Actually, we were looking for you. You do repairs and building, right?” He asked, and Jakamar tilted his head, nodding.

“Sure am. I did most of the construction here. Why? Need somethin’ more permanent?” He asked, eyes shining. Link nodded, before looking at Zelda, silently asking if he should bring it up now. Groose answered for both of them.

“Sure do! We need a LOT of permanent things, houses particularly! See, remember those old stories you told me, about the Surface?” He started, steering Jakamar off towards the bridge, chattering. It was then, Zelda remembered, that Jakamar and Gondo had both taken Groose as their apprentice, teaching him all he knew about mechanics and building. She trusted Groose had this conversation in the bag.

“Are you going to play with me and Uncle Bats today?” Kukiel asked, smiling brightly, and Link shook his head sadly.

“Not today, Kuki. Zelda and I have a lot of work to do, but I’m sure Bats and you can have lots of fun without me.” He hummed, and she pouted, crossing her arms and glancing at Zelda.

“Fine. But next time you HAVE to bring Aunty Zelda with you, ok?” She held out a single pinkie, and Zelda felt her heart soar when Link smiled, hooking his own with hers, promising he and Zelda would return to play with her. Kukiel seemed satisfied, jumping down to chase after her father. Zelda raised a brow, peeking at her knight.

“Uncle Bats?” 

“Long story. Weird guy, but he’s nice.” He shrugged, and Zelda bumped him slightly, twining their fingers together with a soft grin.

“We have all the time in the world.” She hummed, and he nodded, looking anxiously out at the sky before facing her, dropping his forehead to rest against hers.

“All the time in the world.” He agreed.

Chapter Text

      That day consisted of a lot of talking. Link mostly dealt with opening up the conversations while Zelda carried them. He had a bad habit of letting poorly timed jokes or jabs slip into his conversations. Groose returned to them successful, Gondo excited to see others like Scrapper and study them, and Jakamar was happy to have a project that wasn’t the cupboard. Of course, not everyone took it so well. 

Cawlin was still sulking, whining to anyone who would listen. Rupin seemed delighted at the prospect of more possible buyers, even if they weren’t from the sky. Gully, the mischievous little kid who had taken to Strich ever since the Bug Incident, cheered and swung his small net around, rushing off to go play with Kukiel and try and convince her to help him catch more butterflies. 

Bertie seemed nervous about it, but Luv definitely wanted someplace for them to properly grow their family, and not have to cram a bed inside when their baby got older. Peater was absolutely against it, spouting off things about keeping his pride and joy safe, and how she belonged in no place other than the sky. Link pulled Peatrice aside, whispering to her, and informed Zelda she was very excited to move down below.

“She seems happier.” Zelda mused, recalling the forlorn figure of the Item Check Girl, tired and slouched over her table, wanting nothing more than to be left alone. Link nodded, and looked slightly embarrassed.

“I went there so much she got feelings for me, because no one else talked to her.” He admitted, and Zelda jolted, suddenly weary of the girl. “Her dad wanted me to chase away the suitor, but she was so sad before, that I introduced another one instead!” He looked quite proud of himself, and Zelda instantly felt relieved.

“Oh? Who is it?” She hummed, and Link grinned, pointing towards the brown haired girl sitting on the bench, enjoying the breeze. 

“Orielle. I didn’t talk much to her, but after Pipit’s mom pierced both our ears, we were forever bonded.” He spoke solemnly, getting a giggle from Zelda. She remembered Link always playing with Pipit, thinking he was so cool, and fawning over the shimmering gems in his mother’s ears. Orielle wanted some too, and the woman was happy to oblige. Zelda remembered holding his hand as he sobbed and helping him put his first pair in.

The young, squeamish boy didn’t suit the image of the Link in front of her, willing to endure any amount of pain he had to to continue forward.

“They sound very sweet together.” She said, slightly swaying into Link’s side as they walked. He didn’t mind, simply winding an arm around her and steering her closer. It was beginning to get late, the adults trying to steer Kukiel and Gully into bed while Bertie passed his baby the rattle. Link frowned, looking into the distance.

“Think we can make it to Pumpkin Landing before dark?” He questioned, and Zelda squinted, following his train of thought. She sighed, shaking her head slightly.

“No. Best save it for tomorrow. Besides, I think we deserve an early night!” Tugging both of his hands, she smiled, leading him towards the dorms. Groose met them halfway, claiming he would work on some building schematics while they slept. Zelda smiled, before all but throwing Link over her shoulder and rushing to her room. Groose cackled as Link yelped, red in the face. 

Groose watched the pair settle in, Zelda lazing on the bed while Link washed up. He returned in his old tunic, sash, and pants. It was… strange to see him like that. It reminded them that this invulnerable hero was someone they grew up with, someone they considered too soft to be a knight. He rustled Groose’s hair before slumping into Zelda’s arms, already lost in dreamland. Zelda and Groose exchanged amused glances, but Zelda wasn’t far behind him. Scoffing, the taller turned back to his sketches, squinting at them.

      Link was floating. He was standing straight, but there was nothing beneath his feet. His head felt light, vision blurry in the strange white mist. He squinted, a looming, shadowy figure in the distance. With nothing else to see, he began to walk forward. His movements were sluggish, and the distance felt both too far and too close.

“Hylia’s Chosen.” A voice rumbled out, and suddenly he was beside the figure, standing in the strange clouds, looking down on the flourishing forests of Faron. Flinching, he turned, the profile of Demise greeting him. Link stumbled back, reaching for a sword that wasn’t there, and it looked at him, amused.

“You startle easily. I cannot harm you within your own mind.” He declared, and Link furrowed his brow, fists clenched, still in a ready stance. Demise turned, looking back down at the woods, face now contemplative.

“I have no doubt that in the future, I will best her. But my chance at present has been foiled, due to you.” He spoke, pacing forward. Where there was nothing, just a straight drop off the edge, Demise simply floated above it, walking on an invisible path.

“Make no mistake, my final words hold true, Hero. It is simply in the nature of our battle I must congratulate you.” Link tensed. Congratulate him? On what? Winning? Before he could ask, Demise scoffed, glaring over his shoulder.

“Not for winning, you fool, for the prize you’ve gained. Though I would not be surprised that the legends have been lost through the years. There is a rule among the gods, set in place by the Ancient Ones.” extending a hand, he faced Link once more. He paused, and Link slowly mirrored him, frowning.

“When one kills a god, they will become a god.” As he spoke, shadows danced across his face. Lightning, the same that signed up his arms as he tried desperately to throw it back at the vile god, sparked from his hands. No- both their hands. Link yelled, clutching at his sparking up, to no avail. His gloves, bracers, and tunic sleeve burned away. The feathery scars that wound up from his wrist to his shoulder glowed, a blinding white.

Pain surged through him as he lurched, clutching the glowing scars as thunder rolled through his ears, a backtrack to the electricity crackling through his veins and out his fingers. Wild eyes met Demise’s, and he cackled.

“Ah, to be first gifted with godhood, truly a sight to behold. Gods are not born, they are made. You would do well to remember that, Hero. Your actions will shape your being. Are you benevolent? Greedy? Chosen to eternally suffer for the very nature you were gifted with?” He walked circles around Hylia’s Chosen, laughing at his pain.

“I-I don’t WANT your power!” He finally yelled, trying to gain control over the burning sensation, to no avail.

“Fool. There is no other way. Hylia knew this. She used you, Hero, yet you would still believe anything she spoke as gospel. You will learn, in time. You are one of us, now. You will regret siding with her, keeping me from my goals. You and those who come after you will suffer, and it will be all your fault .”

Link woke up, a silent scream on his lips, hands grasping onto his arm, which glowed dimly under his sleeve. Panicked, he gasped, looking to the side, where a tired Groose was slumped over Zelda’s desk. The candle was smoldering and had been out for a while now. Zelda was tucked into the corner of the bed, face peaceful.

He told himself to breathe, to calm down, desperate to sleep but terrified of having such a dream again. But was it a dream? Or had it been a vision, like those he had before this adventure? Link shuddered, and Zelda made a soft noise. Bleary eyes opened, hands coming to rest on his wrist and tug him back down. At the contact, the glow of his scars faded to nothing, and his heart calmed. She examined him for a moment, before huffing, pulling him in close and tucking his head under her chin.

Despite his nature, Link did not fall back asleep.

Chapter Text

      Link’s dreams were plagued with these visits for months. Demise taunting him, goading him into drawing out his power, Link frantically denying it, desperate to rid himself of the evil visage. Groose and Zelda noticed his increasingly terrible dreams, and tended to take turns forcing him to sleep. Groose would pick up the smaller knight and just carry him around when he refused to rest, and Zelda would drag him into bed and lay on top of him.

It works sometimes, but not always. Either way, they continued this routine. Link worked with the knights to clear out any monsters, leading them into the great Faron Woods. They used their bird whistles as a distress call, and he quickly wandered to ask Faron permission to create a settlement. The aloof dragon allowed it, so long as they kept the monsters at bay and respected her woods.

Cawlin had indeed thrown himself into the light, but it happened to be the one leading to Eldin. When Zelda rescued him, she found Mogmas trying to soothe him as he screamed and ran in a circle. It was safe to say he now believed in the Surface. 

Groose avoided Cawlin, but remained fairly close with Strich. Kukiel and Gully were fawning over Luv’s baby, excited to have a new playmate, and Groose sometimes watched over the three of them alongside Strich. Other than that, Groose got to building with Gondo and Jakamar. A few others, like Fledge and Pipit, chipped in when they weren’t exploring by gathering materials.

Zelda worked on easing the transition, helping the Loftwings get used to being near the surface as well as calming any nerves of the people. She often talked with Peater and Bertie, slowly convincing them the move was for the best, as they were the most against it. 

The Surface settlement was coming along rather splendidly. First, a general tent was set up for the knights and builders, as well as visitors. The first proper construction was a small cottage for Link, Zelda, and Groose. It quickly became their favorite place to be, and the only place Link could properly settle in to rest.

Next, Kukiel’s house was made. Jakamar and Wryna had apparently invited Uncle bats to live with them, and Kukiel had been absolutely ecstatic. Gondo’s was finished next, so it was easier to stay near, and his mother begrudgingly moved in. As the days dragged on, more and more places were constructed.

The markets moved down, their stocks slowly shifting. Kina and her father were rather excited to open a new branch of Pumpkin Landing, and eagerly scouted out spots. Still, the majority of people resided in Skyloft. Moving an entire town only started with building- they needed to start the farms, gather their items, get ready to uproot their lives. Zelda understood it was bittersweet to some, but she had never been more delighted.

One of her favorite memories was following Link to Kukiel’s new home, and playing with the young girl. She adored the tiny birds, always chasing after them and trying to hold them. Batreaux, better known as Uncle Bats, ended up watching over the kids while their parents pitched in. Piper spent her time making food for those working, an endless supply of delicacies that made everyone absolutely melt. Kina’s father pitched in with pumpkin soup, but Piper was the true star of the show.

Luv set about decorating any houses she could get her hands on, and trying to chase Sparrot away from it due to his…fantastical style choices. Overall, it was going well. Despite the dreams, Link felt himself relaxing, finding comfort in the motions of each day having a goal in mind. He leaned back, sitting against their house- his house!- and just watching the kids play. Kukiel seemed to adore Zelda almost as much as she did Bats, which made him happy.

They were together, they had people to take care of them and return the favor. They would be fine. Groose and Zelda found him there, shockingly peaceful as he dozed against the wall. They smiled, picking up the hero and quickly tucking him and themselves inside under the blankets.

Everything was going well! They could do this. Zelda hid her face in Link’s tunic, a strange sense telling her that if they didn’t manage this in time, they would never get another chance at a happy ending. She longed to banish these thoughts, but that same feeling came with a rush of holy light; a rush of memories from her past life. It worried her, because usually when that sense came to her, it was right.

She closed her eyes tightly, willing her powers to give her something, anything to point her in the right direction. 

      Two stray Loftwings followed Jakamar down to the Surface. One was a strange yellow, and refused to leave Uncle Bats alone. Kukiel was delighted when the small, baby Loftwing that followed her down settled in for a nap in her arms instantly. After their first meeting, Bats excused himself to blubber to Link about how sweet his niece was and how much he adored his bird. Honestly, sometimes it was hard to think he was ever a monster.

      Gully convinced Strich and Groose to take him to the desert to look for Gerudo Dragonflies. Upon returning, they were covered in sand, smoke, and refused to discuss the trip. They did return with a surplus of bugs though! So, that was good.

      Pipit, Karane, Peatrice, and Orielle went on a double date in Faron, and ended up properly meeting more of the Kikwis. They had a lovely picnic, and accidentally stumbled upon a fairy. Peatrice snuck the little one home, and began to leave sugar water out for her everyday. Needless to say, the fairy sightings in their little town skyrocketed after that, and Peatrice became something of a fairy whisperer.

      Bertie and Luv finally settled on naming their baby Hauk. They lost his rattle, yet again, but one of the Kikwis made one out of a stick and some deku seeds. Hauk seemed to love it even more than his last one, and his first word ended up being ‘Kwee!’. For some reason, only the Kikwis actually counted it as a word.

Chapter Text

      “Hey sleepyhead.” Link blinked, turning away from his spot on the bench to see Zelda walking up, smiling softly. He smiled in return, adjusting the sleeping remlit in his arms. As much as those things were little horrors, they certainly loved to cuddle. She draped her arms over his shoulders, resting her head on top of his.

Skyloft has been peaceful recently. There were boxes, bags, crates and all sorts of things left out to be carried down to the surface. People were bustling around, mainly preparing to move below, but still residing up here. Groose, Zelda, and Link were the only ones fully moved in, but they still slept up here in the bare bones of their rooms to assist with the moving process. Well, room. They were all still inseparable. 

She pressed a soft kiss to his forehead before sliding a small blue flower behind his ear. It flicked, and he smiled wider, looking back up at her. Today, her hair was braided through with any flowers Kukiel could get her hands on. She convinced Zelda to bring the other girls with her for a trip to a small island absolutely covered in them, and all of them returned practically dripping with them.

“Have fun with everyone else?” He asked, and she nodded.

“Very much so! I just passed Groose headed down to fix up the last bits of father’s house with Jakamar, and I think Kukiel went with them.” She explained, and he hummed, stroking the remlit. Zelda cooed at it, scratching it behind its ear, which prompted it to leap up into her arms instead. Little traitor. 

“Now, my dearest hero, would you do me the honors of accompanying me on a romantic excursion?” She asked, spinning around with a small giggle before freeing the little creature. Link flushed, but nodded, eagerly lacing his fingers with hers.

“I’d love nothing more.” She laughed, pressing a small kiss to his nose before holding his hand again. 

“Piper made us a lovely picnic, and Kina even brought us some pumpkin soup!” She said, and Link beamed, pumping a fist. Kina’s pumpkin soup was the absolute BEST. 

He also noticed a newly sewn shawl slung over her shoulders. It wasn’t as intricate as the sailcloth, and seemed to be made of warmer material, but it had the same insignia. They walked together past the academy, picking up the basket of food from the kitchen, and beginning the trek to the goddess statue. After a quick issue of missing the first leap off his loftwing, they were both in the statue’s hands, spreading a blanket.

The soup was perfect, as expected, and the sweet berries and fruits were also lovely. Link found himself laying down with his head on Zelda’s lap, relaxing to the chirps of Loftwings and the breeze rustling through the leaves. He liked listening to Zelda talk, her voice was sweet and gentle, always slightly lulling him into relaxation. One hand was tangled into his hair while the other moved as she spoke, waving around the berry she had yet to eat.

Looking up at her like this, flowers decorated in her hair and bright smile on her face, sun shimmering down on her, he couldn’t help but feel at ease. This was what he fought for- this was what he won for. To see her smile again, to see her laugh and not have the weight of the world on her shoulders. Absently, he lifted his hand to gently caress her cheek, making her look down and beam at him. Then he froze.

Barely visible, under his bracer, was a muffled glow. Zelda too, froze. 

“Link?” She breathed out, reaching to catch his hand and tentatively hold his arm. He swallowed, eyes wide as she carefully, worriedly, undid the buckles. The leather fell away, revealing the scars that emerged after his fight with demise. Feathery, spiraling up under his sleeves and out of view. Zelda inhaled, tracing one of the lines, staring at the light emanating from them.

“What happened?” She whispered, worried and heartbroken, and Link wanted nothing more than to soothe her worries. He opened his mouth weakly, unsure how to respond. What should he talk about, Demise? The dreams? Everything on his adventure that could hypothetically also be responsible for this? 

Before he can even try to respond, he lurched upwards, hand still held hostage by Zelda, as he felt the marks begin to grow. The careful, prickling sensation of the light dancing over his scars and spreading further, marching up his body and over his other wounds and even the places that remained unmarred. 

Panicked, he looked at Zelda, and she couldn’t withhold another gasp, staring into his bright, purely white eyes. They glowed, blinding to meet but she couldn’t look away. The lights covered him like he was fractured, cracked stone, his body merely containing whatever essence was leaking from the fractures.

“Zel!” He yelped, looking at their connected hands. She looked away just in time to see the magic rushing over her body as well, in a less jagged manner. It wrapped around her in loops, circling her arms, waist, legs, even her neck. In a moment of fear, she pulled Link closer, holding his hand like a lifeline, even though it appeared their touch had caused this. The light connected them flared, flashing golden, before her vision was bathed in nothing but white.

      She didn’t know how long it took to return to herself, but when she did, she was not on Skyloft anymore. The world around her was white, occasionally shimmering like passing clouds. Link was before her, still and unresponsive. Even when she shook him, his form remained still, eyes open and unseeing, glowing in that same unnatural way as before. 

“Link?” She whispered, fear surging through her as she weakly held his face, before warmth encompassed the world around her. Zelda turned, one hand still resting on Link’s cheek, to face a golden glow. It sparked like one of the sacred flames, shuddering in a nonexistent breeze. This was a presence she knew well.

“How…are you here?” She whispered, stepping forward slowly, approaching the golden flames. The golden spirit of Hylia, her spirit .

“I gave up my immortal existence, yes, but my powers remain.” The whispery voice came to her, shaking Zelda to her very core, because it was her voice.

“We lack the time to discuss this properly, and I wished to supply you with more time to prepare for this.” The goddess’s original form whispered to her, and Zelda furrowed her brow, inching closer.

“What do you mean? What is happening?” She glanced back at Link, but he was still unresponsive.

“I know not what is coming, but it is stronger than Demise and any of his reincarnations will ever be,” She whispered, Zelda’s eyes widening. “You and I are supposed to be one. But a mortal must be prepared to host a god's will. I was willing to wait for your soul to mend, but something has changed with him.” The spirit hovered closer, beginning to glow brighter.

“Zelda. Please, accept the gift of my powers, and prepare to defend Skyloft from this evil. Your Hero’s mission is not over, but you cannot accompany him. You are this time’s only hope.”  

Zelda steeled herself, clenching her hands together. Slowly, she stepped forward, raising her chin to face the spirit. She nodded, and the glowing flame surged forward, spinning around her before rushing into her chest. The spirit maiden gasped, hands clutching at her heart as it absorbed into her, forcing itself into her soul to merge with it. 

For an instant, they remained separate, goddess and girl, within one body. Her eyes glowed golden, just as the flame had, and she turned to face Link. Her face furrowed in worry, and she carefully clutched his face, pressing her lips to his forehead.

“My light will always guide you. Please, you two godlings are part of a much larger destiny than I ever anticipated. Be careful, my Chosen.” The glow of gold rippled across his skin, causing him to shudder and slump forward. The glow in her eyes faded as her soul reconciled with the newfound power within her. She clutched at Link, squeezed her eyes shut, and felt this strange place between worlds slip away from them.

Chapter Text

      Flinching, Link’s eyes flared open, stumbling into Zelda’s arms. She gasped, instantly latching onto his shoulders, slightly dazed, but very much concerned for her friend. The glowing had subsided, leaving the pair to stand in the cold, dark air. How long had they been asleep?

“Link- did you see that?” She asked, and he blinked, looking back up at her in confusion.

“No. What just happened-” He was cut off by a massive bang. He grunted, grabbing tightly to Zelda as the statue shook, the sound of the stone cracking sounding off around them. Link scrambled for purchase, boots sliding against the stone, doing his best to keep Zelda as close as possible.

Looking up, the pair fell silent, eyes wide as they gazed upon the land. The sky was red, churning violently as the clouds grew darker. Fire was lapping at the trees below the smaller, remade goddess statue on Skyloft. Bits of magma and molten stone rained from the sky, Loftwings were screeching as they took flight in shock.

Then, Link jolted, eyes wide, stepping closer to the edge, hand clenched around Zelda’s.

“The villagers!” He yelled, and she gasped, instantly throwing herself off the tower. Link shouted in shock as she wrapped around his shoulders, barely using the sailcloth in time. They were sprinting as fast as they could, rushing towards the screams of the awakened citizens. Knights were staggering up, people were rushing from houses, confused and terrified of the crashing and burning.

Piper rushed out, late dinner abandoned as she clutched Gully to her chest, rushing towards the edge without hesitation. Bertie was sobbing, clutching little Hauk as Luv urged them to move faster.

“To the Surface! Hurry, hurry!” Zelda shouted. Dark tendrils of concentrated magic wound around the trees, houses, and even the people. Zelda was rushing towards the academy while Link gasped, facing the quickly collapsing bazaar. He darted forward, a frantic Orielle trying to pry the rubble from the door to Peatrice’s house.

“Move! I got it!” He lobbed a bomb at the rocks, rushing Orielle towards her brother and Pipit, forcing her to flee. The blast cleared most of the rubble, revealing a huffing Peater and sobbing Peatrice. He pulled them forward ushering them towards the edge, where the rest were fleeing. He coughed, waving his hand to try and shoo away the smoke and strange, misty magic. 

A loud meow caught his attention, and he lurched, finding a small Remlit batting at his trousers. His heart ached, and he sighed, scooping it up and rushing for the edge. He would evacuate everyone , damnit. 

      Zelda burst into the academy, instantly greeted by Cawlin and Strich, holding a few fallen pillars open for the others. Her father was among them, thankfully, ushering the kitchen lady out. Fledge and Karane were also running, and Captain Eagus wasn’t far behind. 

“Hurry!” She yelled, rushing past them despite her father’s yell. There was another figure- one not meant to be there. It lumbered, standing tall and wreathed in darkness, only eyes of red shining through the haze. Zelda glowered, digging her heels in and spreading her arms.

The thing lurched forward, shadowy arms raising to match her pose, almost mockingly. Something deep in her gut stirred- a battlefield, layered in smoke, light, and hatred. Demise, bearing a massive sword and he grinned, calling hordes of monsters forward to face her.

This felt similar, but weaker. Nothing that could truly bring fatal harm to her or her people. Still, she drew a single hand forward, gathering as much power from her soul as she could, and pushed it forward. In a surge of golden energy, it swept across the building. Before she could see if it worked, a hand caught her arm.

Karane, pulling her forward and free as the rest of the academy came crashing down on itself. She panted, leaning against the older girl, before looking up at her with wide eyes. It was still for a moment, before Zelda shook her head.

“Come on, we have to go!” Karane nodded, and they turned to rush after the other group.

      Jakamar had invited Groose to have dinner with himself, Wryna, and Kukiel, seeing as his other thirds hadn’t gotten back yet. It was honestly quite nice- Kukiel adored Groose, especially getting to ride on his shoulders. Dinner was quiet, Wryna asking them all about their days as Jakamar chided Kukiel to actually eat her vegetables. 

It was the closest thing Groose had to a family dinner in a very long time, he thought he could do this every night actually-

The whole house flinched in unison when a loud squawk and crash sounded from outside. Panicked, Groose rushed out, gaping at the sight of an exhausted Loftwing carrying Piper and Gully. Before he could stutter out a question, she pointed upwards, towards the sight of red skies and birds carrying people fleeing from a crumbling city in the sky. 

Wryna, who had followed him out, gasped, before pulling Piper and her son inside. Groose quickly checked on the bird, relieved to find it unharmed. People were landing left and right, Luv and Bertie, Sparrot, Rupin and his mother- everyone was rushing down to the surface in a whirl of panic and fear.

The final two figures to descend were seated on the back of red and blue Loftwings, heads turned back to ensure the darkness that just destroyed their home, that had apparently been what was plaguing their anxieties, didn’t follow them down below.

Chapter Text

      Zelda and Link slowly circled the island. As serious as he wanted to be, it was hard to be when he had about ten Remlits clinging to him. Still, he leaned forward, frowning at the sight of their ruined home. Zelda was silent beside him, misty eyed as she examined it all. 

“Link. I saw something- or someone, down there.” She murmured, wind carrying her words to the knight as he turned, looking at her curiously.

“It- was weaker than Demise, but certainly the same magic. Back on the goddess statue, I saw…the Goddess. I think we need you again.” She sighed, and he looked forward, facing the trails of malice and magic that coiled around the island. There were still a few crackling flames, but most seemed to have gone out. Zelda furrowed his brow, before leading her Loftwing into a dive to land.

Link followed her, Crimson shaking her head as a few of the small critters nuzzled into her, cowering away from the land around. Zelda hoped off, turning to face Link with a sad look in her eyes. Link winced, reaching forward to cup her face and gently swipe at the stray tear that slid down her cheek. She sniffled, leaning into him and wrapping her arms around him firmly. They stayed quiet, just looking at each other, though Zelda’s eyes strayed to the scars that inched up his neck. 

“I don’t want you to go.” She finally whispered, tracing the lines that once glowed with an inhuman power. He smiled gently, knocking their foreheads together.

“You feel it then, don’t you? Something is…calling me.” He said, and she let out a broken sob, pulling his face closer.

“I don’t want you to! We just got to the Surface; we just finished this whole stupid thing- you can’t leave yet!” Zelda tugged him close, burying her face in his neck as she cried. Link felt his own eyes watering as he held the back of her head with a hand, pressing his lips to her head.

They embraced like that for a long while, until Zelda’s tears subsided, and the air grew even colder. Link blinked, slowly looking away from the girl in his arms to see a small, swirling orb of purple and black. It wasn’t dark, like Demise was, but it was…strange. He hadn’t felt magic like this before. It was beckoning him. 

He slipped from Zelda’s arms, transfixed by it, and slowly approached. As he neared, the magic reacted, suddenly expanding into a massive swirl of colors, before settling back to purple. If he looked hard enough, he could see flashes and specks of different worlds, filled with new people, new things, new magic and creatures. 

It was like the Gate of Time, expanding within due to the magic, but compressed into a single flat entrance in their reality. This was the entrance of another adventure, another journey. His hand brushed the surface gently, and it rippled, sparks of magic flying outward as his touch. He had to go.

“Link!” Zelda cried out, grabbing his wrist and tugging him around, before firmly pressing a kiss to his lips. She pulled away just as swiftly, tear tracks evident on her face as she gave him a wobbly smile.

“Come home safe.” She murmured, before boldly shoving him, an all too familiar feeling to him. The portal consumed him almost instantly, the last thing he saw was Zelda’s weak smile, single hand extended towards him, an odd mocker of how his journey initially began.