As the sun dipped below the horizon, Hateno Village fell quiet, the comforting hum of village life replaced by the soft chirping of crickets. Zelda sat by Link's bedside, watching as he drifted into a deep, peaceful sleep. His breathing slowed, and for the first time in what felt like ages, his expression softened entirely, free from tension or worry.
After a while, Zelda moved to the window, looking out over the fields and hills surrounding the village. She had grown used to the quiet life they'd carved out here in Hateno, a life worlds apart from their days of endless travel and battles. For a moment, she closed her eyes and listened to the sounds of the village at night—the distant rustling of leaves, the faint laughter of children playing in their homes, the low murmur of water trickling from the hilltop springs.
Hours passed, and Zelda found herself gently nodding off in the chair by the window. She was jolted awake by the soft creak of the floorboards, and as she turned, she saw Link sitting up, rubbing his eyes.
"You're awake!" Zelda whispered with a smile. She leaned forward, searching his face for any signs of lingering pain. "How are you feeling?"
Link blinked a few times, still shaking off the haze of sleep. "Better, I think." He touched his bandaged arm, testing the tenderness. "A bit sore, but I'll be alright."
Zelda gave him a relieved nod. "I'm glad. You really had me worried back there." She hesitated, then added, "I think we've earned a bit of rest, don't you?"
Link grinned, though he seemed to consider her words carefully. "Yeah, I think you're right," he replied. "Maybe it's time to enjoy Hateno a little more and spend some time here."
They exchanged a warm smile, a silent agreement passing between them. The following morning, they fell into an easy rhythm. Link took his time cooking breakfast—eggs and mushrooms with freshly baked bread from the village bakery. Zelda helped him chop vegetables and gathered herbs from the garden, and they savored the simple, fresh meal together, laughing and chatting without a single worry pressing upon them.
After breakfast, Link slung his shield onto his back and wandered over to the small, grassy hill near their house. Zelda followed, chuckling when he tossed his shield down, preparing to surf along the gentle slope. With a quick, playful hop, he launched himself, expertly balancing as he rode down the hill.
"Zelda! You have to try this!" he called over his shoulder, his laughter carrying on the breeze.
Zelda shook her head, grinning. "I'll leave that one to you," she said, crossing her arms and leaning back to watch. She couldn't help but laugh as he reached the bottom of the hill and immediately ran back up, full of excitement and energy, ready for another round.
For the next few days, they settled into a new routine. Each morning, Link cooked, experimenting with different recipes and proudly serving each new dish to Zelda. He shield-surfed, hiked through the hills, and practiced his archery, while Zelda immersed herself in Hateno's quiet life, visiting villagers, gathering supplies, and taking long, peaceful walks along the riverside.
At night, they'd sit by the fire, Link sharing tales from his past journeys while Zelda listened, fascinated. Sometimes, she'd even share her own stories, of moments in the castle or with the Champions, bringing a shared laughter to the room that lightened both their hearts.
With each passing day, they found themselves feeling more at home, building a life together that felt like it could last. The battles and endless challenges felt like memories from another world. Here, in Hateno, they were finally free to be themselves. And they were ready, for the first time in years, to embrace a life of peace, comfort, and joy.
