Chapter 64: panic at first
Link awoke to the soft glow of morning light streaming through his window. For a moment, confusion enveloped him, and he struggled to remember the events that had unfolded. He blinked, the world coming into focus around him. He was back in Hateno Village, safe and sound.
But then the memories rushed back—a flood of images of the battle, of Ganon, and of Zelda's kidnapping. A surge of adrenaline coursed through him, and he shot up in bed. "Zelda!" he exclaimed, looking around frantically.
Zelda stood by the window, a soft smile on her face, though her eyes were filled with concern. "You're awake! Thank the goddess," she breathed, rushing to his side. "I was so worried."
Link's heart raced as he took in her presence, her warmth grounding him. "What happened?" he asked, his voice hoarse. "The darkness... Ganon..."
"We won," she assured him, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. "You fought bravely, and Ganon has been pushed back—for now. But the battle isn't over, Link. We need to be ready for whatever comes next."
As he processed her words, a sense of determination ignited within him. He could still feel the remnants of darkness lingering at the edges of his mind, but with Zelda by his side, he felt stronger.
"I will do whatever it takes to protect Hyrule and you," Link vowed, his eyes meeting hers with fierce resolve.
Zelda smiled, her confidence shining through. "Together, we can face anything. The light will always prevail."
With those words, Link knew that despite the challenges ahead, they would stand strong together against the darkness that threatened their world. As the dawn broke outside, casting a golden hue over Hateno Village, they prepared for the journey ahead, ready to face whatever trials awaited them.
And so, the adventure continued—linking their fates together as they fought for peace in a world forever touched by shadows.