the legend of zelda Age of Calamity

Chapter 17: Fractured Silence

Darkness pressed in around him. The weight of his own thoughts crushed against his chest, suffocating and inescapable. In his restless sleep, Link trembled, his breathing shallow and uneven. The battle replayed over and over in his mind—the overwhelming numbers, the desperate fight, the Triforce of Courage flaring to life, and then... nothing.

He had collapsed. He had failed.

Alone in the quiet chambers of Zora's Domain, his body shook, muscles locked in a silent battle with his own memories. The weight of expectation bore down on him—he was Zelda's appointed knight, sworn to protect her, sworn to stand strong. And yet, she had left. Returned to Hyrule Castle without him.

Mipha stood at the doorway, watching him with quiet concern. She had checked on him earlier, but something told her to return. And now, as she stepped closer, she noticed the way his fingers curled into the sheets, the tension in his jaw. His body was locked in unseen torment.

"Link..." she whispered, kneeling beside his bed. She reached out, hesitating for only a moment before resting a gentle hand on his arm.

The touch made him jolt, his eyes snapping open. His breath came in shallow, uneven gasps.

Mipha's heart clenched at the sight. She had known Link since childhood, known him as the quiet but steadfast warrior, always composed, always moving forward. But now, he looked lost.

"You're safe," she assured him softly. "It's over."

Link exhaled, his gaze flickering toward her before looking away. He swallowed hard, his hands still tense, but slowly, he willed himself to breathe deeper. The battle was done, and he was here. Not on the battlefield. Not failing.

Mipha didn't push him to speak. She simply stayed by his side, offering quiet comfort as the weight on his shoulders eased—just a little.

By the next morning, Link sat up, his body still sore but his strength returning. Mipha watched him closely as she brought him fresh water. His movements were steadier now, his breathing even.

"You're recovering well," she noted, offering a small smile. "But don't push yourself too soon."

Link gave her a small nod. The worst had passed. He wasn't whole, not yet—but he would stand again. He always did.