A/N: I hate the fact that I cut at least half the content I had planned for this (cause this was getting ridiculously long).

The sun radiated light and warmth, bringing to life the greens, reds, blues, purples, yellows, and a variety of other colors that dotted the Lanayru Wetlands. Animals of all sizes roamed the countryside, grazing, digging, collecting, and chasing each other around as two horses bearing a Hylian and Gerudo stepped along the dirt path leading through the heart of the wetlands. Accompanying the two riders was a Goron, who managed to keep up even at a leisurely pace.

"Are you sure you're up for this?"

"Hmm?" Zelda hummed quietly as Urbosa's question pulled her out of her thoughts.

"The wedding, I mean." The former Gerudo Champion was eyeing her carefully. The Princess of Hyrule knew full well that meant the woman knew something was off, not that Zelda found that surprising at all. She had always been a poor liar, especially when it came to Urbosa. "You've been acting a bit strangely ever since the Calamity was sealed away, but this past week you've been really out of sorts." A month had passed since Ganon had been sealed away and in that time, Zelda, with the support of the other races, had taken to rebuilding the castle and its surrounding town. Daruk and Urbosa, feeling that it would be best to remain close to the Princess, had taken on roles as her retainers. It was only a matter of time before they noticed that something was off, though she had never meant to hide her secrets from them for long. If she were to succeed in her ultimate goal, she would need their support.

"I am sorry. I did not mean to worry you. I… simply have a lot on my mind."

"I get that," Daruk rumbled. "Ya have a lot on yer plate, tryin' ta rebuild the castle and all."

"As well as excavating the catacombs." How Urbosa managed to sound so casual about something she should not have known about was beyond Zelda. Then again, the Gerudo woman often seemed to know what was going through her mind before she ever said a word. It could be incredibly uncomfortable. "Did you think we weren't aware?"

"Impa told us," Daruk sighed, evidently displeased with how Urbosa had chosen to handle the subject.

"I wish I could say I was surprised," Zelda chuckled, not displeased that they had some idea of what was going on. In the process of clearing the debris throughout the castle, the Sheikah had discovered a hidden study within the library containing her father's journal. Zelda had pored over the late king's thoughts, coming to love her departed father even more dearly as she came to see just how much he had loved her. The poor king, with so much on his shoulders, had even condemned himself for his harshness toward her in his later entries.

How she wished she could let him know she forgave him for all of it.

While that had been a most unexpected and unpleasant surprise, the more practical side of her brain had begun mulling over the existence of the study. One problem she had never been able to make sense of was how Ganon had erupted from beneath Hyrule Castle. Believing that he had simply given up his corporeal form to continue haunting Hyrule, she had chalked it up to some intelligence on Ganon's part. After spending one hundred years locked away with him, she had come to understand him and was no longer certain of her previous conclusion. Not only that, but he had chosen a very humanoid form during the final confrontation. With so many questions taunting her, the Princess had started to develop a hypothesis that would have most labeling her as insane.

That was until the Sheikah had discovered another secret within the castle's library. An entrance to catacombs stretching out below the castle.

Zelda had kept the secret close to her chest, only communicating with written word when the topic of the underground labyrinth was discussed. Thankfully, her two retainers trusted her enough to not stand over her shoulder as she wrote.

Within the catacombs, the researchers had discovered not only ancient Sheikah tech but the remnants of another civilization as well. While normally, she would have been ecstatic at such news, she had more pressing concerns to attend to first. Unfortunately, the reports contained little more than notes on design and speculation of function; however, with the news that Impa knew about the catacombs, Zelda now wondered if some things were being hidden from her.

As expansive as the catacombs likely were, Robbie, an associate of Purah's, should have finished mapping the area by now. Despite his eccentricities, the man was surprisingly efficient and intuitive, with a keen sense of how to stay on task.

She wouldn't put it past Impa to have her people hide the truth of the labyrinth from Zelda until she had the opportunity to inquire about her motivations.

"Is there something we should know about, Little Bird?"

"I believe so," Zelda replied honestly. "However, I wish to speak with Impa first."

"… Very well."

With so much left uncertain, the Princess was hesitant to cause undue concern, especially during a time when they were supposed to be celebrating. After their victory over the Calamity, it had been agreed by all the peoples of Hyrule that a festival was in order; however, once they had seen how exhausted the Princess of Hyrule was, as well as having their own issues to attend to, they had decided that it would be best to wait. King Dorephan had then decided, after speaking with Link and Mipha, that he would open the ceremony and the following celebrations to all of the people of Hyrule.

It had surprised Zelda that the two had agreed to such a thing, though in retrospect, she recognized that much of it likely had to do with their irremovable sense of duty.

Regardless, this was a time to celebrate a great victory and look hopefully to the future. For the time being, her dark premonitions were a burden that she would bear alone until a more appropriate time. It would only delay the inevitable but it was her gift to her friends.

"Relax, Urbosa," she chided playfully, unable to find it in herself to brood. Even with so much uncertainty on the horizon, she found it hard to not be at peace. "This isn't the time to worry."

"My, how things have changed."

"Ya promise ta let us know if ya need help, right?"

"You have my word. In time, I will tell you everything. For now, we should focus on helping to make the next few days the best they possibly can be."

"…"

"…"

Zelda sighed. "That is a command from your Princess."

The Princess's smile was quick to return as Urbosa raised a brow. "Oh? Forgive me, milady," she said with a mock bow.

"I suppose I shall forgive you this once."

"Most gracious of you."

The trio chuckled as they continued along the path leading to Zora's Domain. It would be quite some time before the magnificent city would come into view but Zelda didn't mind. It was simply another chance to enjoy the world that she had been separated from for so long.

"I read that this place was supposed to be beautiful but… wow," Medli breathed as she looked out over the gleaming city. She had been in awe since she had first laid eyes on the city, being one of the few times where she had nothing to say. Deciding that he wanted to make the moment more memorable, Revali had suggested that they get a better view from the highlands that surrounded the city on all sides.

Revali smiled fondly as he watched her take in the sight. Even he had to admit that it was something to behold and he was glad to share it with her.

"If this is the upper city… what do you suppose the lower city looks like?" she asked, turning to him with excitement.

"Hmm." He couldn't imagine what the lower city was like. At first thought, he doubted it would be all that impressive; however, the more he thought about it, the Zora had proven to be master craftsmen. He wouldn't put it past them to find a way to beautify an underwater city as well. "I can't really imagine," he admitted.

"Me either," she sighed wistfully. "I wonder if Mipha would be willing to take pictures for us. Maybe we should ask."

"Perhaps we should." While he was somewhat interested in the possibilities, he wasn't so interested that he felt the need to ask after it. Of course, Medli's excitement concerning such things was enough to motivate him to at least try. "Shall we?" the former Champion asked as he gestured to the city with a wing.

"Yes!"

Together they took flight and glided down toward the city below. It hadn't dawned on Revali until they drew close to the city that he had no idea what proper etiquette was when it came to entering the city through the air. The Rito Village was usually rather lax when it came to such things, though it was vastly preferred for the various landings to be used but the Zora may not have been so easygoing. If they weren't used to visitors descending from above, it was probably best to enter the city the same way that someone who was not native to the Domain would.

Lighting down before the bridge, the two Rito began their crossing.

"I've been meaning to ask. Was Urbosa able to help you with the favor you needed?" Medli asked, not even attempting to hide the fact that the city still had much of her attention.

"She was," he answered, growing mildly flustered as he hoped that she wouldn't ask after the topic anymore. It had been utterly humiliating to ask the insufferable woman for help, even if she had been mildly less insufferable while helping.

"That's good." Thankfully, the Rito girl was now enthralled by Zora's Domain as they entered the city proper. All around, Zora were milling about, going about day to day activities while others were actively working to prepare for the festivities to come."It's so… so…"

"It really is something," Revali said, growing relaxed as his companion completely forgot what they had just been talking about.

"Can you believe that anyone would be able to create such structures?" Medli asked as she looked around, trying to take absolutely everything in. "And functional too!"

Revali didn't try to respond as Medli continued, her eagerness becoming infectious as many of the surrounding Zora noticed her. Children laughed at her antics while many of the adults smiled knowingly. The few that noticed him whispered among themselves as they pointed. Many appeared rather awed by his sudden appearance.

He supposed that it shouldn't be a surprise that they recognized him. He had been there before and had aided them in the battle for their home.

"Master Revali." The former Champion turned to find two guards waiting for him. "May I presume that this is Lady Medli?"

"She is," he replied.

"Welcome. Lady Mipha has been expecting you. If you will follow us."

After taking a few moments to get Medli's attention, the duo followed after the guards. As Revali expected, he had to guide her through the city as she continued gawking at every new sight. It was a decidedly pleasant experience. Though, something did cause him to stop in his tracks.

"Master Revali? Is something wrong?"

"Who is responsible for this?" the former Champion asked as he gestured toward a particular piece of decoration that had caught his attention.

"I cannot say for sure."

"And who do I talk to about having it removed?"

The two guards exchanged a quizzical glance. "The king has taken a hand in delegating the tasks for the wedding. I am sure you will be able to ask him personally."

"Oh, I intend to," he replied as he folded his wings. Honestly, how could someone make such a poor color and arrangement choice? Especially when they were supposed to be celebrating the union of two of their most beloved heroes.

"It is a poor color choice," Medli murmured as they continued on through the city.

"I'll have it taken care of," Revali sighed. "I suppose I'll just have to check over the rest of the preparations as well… honestly."

"Can I help?"

"I would appreciate another set of eyes."

"… And, when we're done, Mipha did tell me about a place that prepares some wonderful seafood dishes. I was thinking we could visit it."

"I would love nothing more."

They exchanged an affectionate smile as they drew near the throne room. He could only hope that he wouldn't embarrass himself over the next few days.

"Is it to your liking, my dear?"

"It's beautiful." Mipha looked around the throne room, dazzled by the decorations. Blue and red banners hung from the walls, embroidered with a heart matching her jewelry, and, in its center, stood a Hylian blade. Silver and Aquamarine banners were interspersed between them, bearing the symbol of the Zora people. On the outskirts of the room, several tables were aligned, each bearing a special coral growing in a variety of unusual shapes. To top it all off, everything was bathed in the otherworldly green glow of luminous stones. It was unfortunate that the actual ceremony would be taking place during the day but Mipha was glad she at least had the opportunity to see everything at night.

"You are sure?"

"Yes. It's perfect!" The Zora Princess had spent more time than she was willing to admit imaging the scene in her mind and it had turned out far better than she had imagined. Perhaps she hadn't spent too much time considering the smaller details considering her father's knack for putting together an event.

"I'm glad to hear it! And Link? What about you?"

Mipha looked over at her betrothed, who was watching her with a tilted head. After a second, he smiled and nodded his head. Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed her younger brother was silently ecstatic about her response.

"Excellent!" Her father fell silent for a moment as he looked over to the two Ritos that stood in the corner of the room. "And you, Master Revali? Is everything to your liking?" he asked dryly.

Mipha had to suppress her laughter. She had heard that Revali had almost gone on a warpath after finding some decorations that he believed were ill-suited to the occasion. Though she was well-aware that he still struggled to present himself in a likable manner at times, she believed that he had done it with good intentions. He would never admit it but she knew full well he wouldn't have done so for those he didn't care about. It was very sweet of the once-abrasive archer.

"It's adequate."

"It humbles me to hear such high praise from an esteemed guest."

Revali seemed to have caught on that the question was meant to be rhetorical but he played it off well by nodding to the king.

"Now, all that remains is for our other guests of honor to arrive and to rehearse the ceremony with Kapson."

Mipha's heart jolted slightly at her father's words. She had spent the last month waiting for this day to come, sometimes having to resort to busywork to keep her mind occupied. Now that just a few hours remained before her wedding, her nerves were suddenly whispering to her insistently. She looked off to one of the deep blue banners, analyzing the crest that was supposed to symbolize her and Link's union. For some reason, her nerves only whispered louder.

Unconsciously, she brought her hands together, massaging them gently as she tried to remind herself that she had very little cause for concern.

"Might I ask that you three go wait for the others?" Mipha looked back, finding both her father and Link watching her carefully. Link glanced at the Zora King, giving a quick nod before turning toward the entrance with one last look at her. After he left with Revali, Medli, and Sidon, her father cleared his throat, regaining her attention. "What is it, my dear? Are you having second thoughts?"

"No!" she replied quickly, her hands flying up as though to ward off the idea. "I… I'm just nervous. I know I have very little reason to worry but…"

Her father remained silent for several seconds, carefully considering her words and the pause that accompanied them. "Are you beginning to realize what the step you are about to take means?"

"Well, not really," the Zora Princess replied carefully. "You and mother always made sure that I understood what decisions like this would mean for me and those around me. After Link and I left, I did take some time to consider what it would mean for the both of us. The sorts of struggles we would face and how difficult it might be at times." She took a deep breath as she tried to sum up what really worried her. "I suppose it's… what if something goes wrong?"

"Something goes wrong?"

"Well, with such an elegant and public affair, what if I were to fall? Or I were to mess up my lines or my vows?" Of course, there was one other major concern she had. "And Medli -"

She was cut off as her father's laughter boomed through the throne room. He leaned back, his joviality carrying for several seconds as Mipha stared at him blankly. "I am sorry my dear," he said as he finally caught his breath, "of all the things I expected to hear, that was not one of them. I am glad to hear that you are only suffering from pre-marital jitters." He tapped his chin thoughtfully as something occurred to him. "Though I do understand the concern over Medli. Perhaps your choice to have Gaddison be your third bridesmaid makes more sense than I thought." After a moment, the king relaxed as his expression died to a calm smile. The same smile that he wore in every pleasant memory from her childhood. "Might I ask you something?"

"Of course."

"Do you believe that either one of you will die if anything were to go awry?"

"No." That was an incredibly odd question to her. That struck her as an incredible leap in logic.

"And do you believe that Link will abandon you tomorrow?"

"… No." He knew the Hylian warrior as well as her. Link was many things but he was neither a coward nor an oath breaker.

"Then, what is the worst possible thing that will happen if you were to trip?"

Mipha said nothing as she understood what he was getting at. At the end of the day, if she were to trip or screw up her lines, or Medli's clumsiness caused a scene, she would still be married, and life would continue just as it was meant to.

"Do you understand?"

"I do," the Zora Princess replied, her voice a bit more certain than it had been.

"Then take a deep breath and rest easy, my dear."

After taking a few deep breaths to calm her nerves, her father summoned the guard on duty to gather all of those who would take part in the audience. Though her conversation with her father had certainly helped, there were still a few stuttered lines as they all rehearsed for what was to come.

"Do not feed her under the table like that."

Link shrugged apologetically as Midna snatched the proffered fish and retreated before Mipha could reclaim it, not that she would have. As much as the Zora Princess would nag him when it came to what he let the wolf get away with, she never did anything about it. Sometimes, the Hylian was certain that she did it out of some sort of formality more than anything else. He had caught her feeding Midna things she shouldn't have on more than one occasion while petting the animal affectionately. The only real difference in how they handled it was that Link was as likely to spoil his wolf in public as he was in private.

Then again, the strange Zora tavern they sat in didn't exactly count as public at the moment. While the king had considered having the dining area reserved for only a few guests of honor, he had recognized that the decision would affect those who had chosen to stay in Kodah and Cayden's inn just behind the tavern. As such, Dorephan had opted to have a curtain drawn up around a corner of the dining room with guards posted just outside so that the group could eat in peace.

Not that he expected a dinner with the former Champions to be terribly peaceful.

"I see some things haven't changed," Urbosa remarked coyly as she turned her attention back to the two.

"Heh," Daruk chuckled. "How've ya both been?"

"It's been rather quiet," Mipha replied with a glance at Link. "Father forbade us from assisting with most tasks when we returned. It wasn't until about two weeks ago that he finally allowed me into the infirmary and Link to help drive out the last of the monsters."

The former Hylian Champion kept his face carefully controlled as his fiancee explained what the last month had been like for them. He had certainly appreciated the opportunity to rest but, after a few days, it had started to drive him mad. Even though the Zora had come out of the conflict with the Calamity in relatively good condition, there was still much work to be done. Hylia knew sitting around when there was work to be done made his skin crawl.

Mipha had felt much the same, though she would never admit it. As the days of resting had dragged on, Link had noticed pacing, clutched hands, and wistful glances toward areas she knew could have used her help.

Of course, the last few days, both had been so busy helping to prepare for the ceremony and following festivities to devote much thought to anything else. He was simply relieved that Mipha was pleased with how everything was turning out. He had been worried when he noticed her nervous state in the throne room earlier; however, the brief conversation with her father seemed to have calmed her significantly.

"Oh, that sounds like what happened to Revali!" Medli interjected before the Zora Princess could offer more details. "I think Kaneli threatened to sit on you at one point, didn't he?"

The Rito archer made a noise deep in his throat as drank deeply from his silver mug. "I'm not sure what that old bird was playing at," Revali grumbled as he set the cup down. "Thinking he could stop me."

"But you still took time to rest, didn't you?" Urbosa asked with a raised brow.

"Oh, he did," Medli answered when Revali remained silent. "I made sure of that."

"I suppose you needed help cleaning your home, exploring a few areas you've read about, and babysitting your nieces?" Urbosa asked with a small smile.

"Pretty much!" Medli agreed proudly. She turned to the Rito archer fondly, "he's also been helping Teba train some of the chicks to use a bow."

"That's very cute." Link could feel Mipha roll her eyes next to him. Apparently, he and the Zora Princess weren't the only ones that hadn't gotten rid of old habits. Urbosa still felt the need to prod Revali every now and again, it seemed.

"I am not cute."

"It's adorable," Medli confirmed. The Rito archer now looked conflicted, unwilling to accept teasing from Urbosa but also pleased with Medli's words.

"I do not mean to interrupt," Zelda stated after a momentary lull, "but were you two able to find anything in the library?" Zelda had been almost as quiet as Link had been throughout the meal. The Hylian Princess had greeted them warmly and uttered a few small platitudes and congratulations but was quick to fall silent. If he were forced to make a guess as to why she behaved so, he would have chalked it up to mulling over a problem. Most of his memories still eluded him but he recognized the troubled frown she had worn for most of the dinner.

"Oh, yes!" The Rito girl exclaimed. "We had planned to wait until after the wedding was over to talk to you about that but we can give you the books we got tonight after dinner."

"I would appreciate that. Thank you."

"The librarian also asked an interesting question," Revali said as his eyes centered on Zelda. "He wanted to know what your interest in King Marth is." Silence fell over the table as everyone's gaze was caught between the Rito archer and the Hylian Princess.

For once, Link agreed with Revali's insistence on pushing the subject. Though she had relieved him of his duties as her personal knight, Link still felt something akin to a duty to her. He wasn't sure it had anything to do with her representing their race or even her role in subduing Ganon. It had been something he had pondered for a long time until Mipha had finally put it into words. They had developed a strong bond during the Age of Calamity and it was something that time and amnesia could not erase. Years could pass and he would still heed the call if she needed him.

Now, upon hearing a name he'd never heard before, Link became very aware of the blade on his back.

After a pregnant pause, Revali finally sighed with a dramatic shrug. "I suppose you don't have to tell us right this minute but, if something were going on, don't you think we should know?"

"When the time is right, I will tell you everything," Zelda assured them all, looking neither relieved nor put out by the last few seconds. "For now, I would like you all to be able to enjoy this moment."

Nobody said a word as they continued eyeing her.

"… very well," she relented as she placed her fingers together, leaning forward. "I don't think any of you will be surprised to know that Hyrule is in an incredibly weakened state right now. With the damage done to Central Hyrule, as well as the rest of the races, we are ill-equipped to defend ourselves. With Hyrule Castle and the surrounding city in ruins well… it would be very difficult for us to mobilize what forces we do have. And that's not to mention…" The princess sighed, a look of vexation crossing her face as she stopped herself. "To put it simply, I think it would be wise to develop strong alliances while we rebuild."

"And you suppose that this King Marth would agree to ally himself with us?" Urbosa asked.

"Yes, I believe so."

"I think we oughta give it a rest." Daruk folded his arms as he looked at everyone seated around them. "Our little sister promised ta tell us everythin' later on. Besides, dontcha think this is the time to be focusing on something else?" he asked with a sly grin as he nudged the Hylian next to him.

Link found himself exchanging a glance with Urbosa. She raised a brow, asking him a silent question. Link gave a subtle shake of his head. It was a relief that he wasn't the only one that was of the opinion that Zelda was hiding something; however, neither warrior said anything as the conversation was left behind.

"So, are ya two ready ta… what'd they call it?" The Goron scratched at his beard as he looked quizzically at his friends.

"Tie the knot?" Urbosa offered.

"Yeah, that! Ya both ready for it?"

The Zora Princess next to him turned to look at him silently. He held her gaze for a few moments as she reached out to take his hand beneath the table. She smiled warmly as she turned back to Daruk. "We are."

"That's the spirit!" Thankfully, the Goron didn't slap Link on the back this time. He really didn't care to potentially have his head slam into the table.

"On that note, I think it may be time for us to get some rest," Urbosa announced as she took to her feet. The Gerudo woman left her seat to stand behind Zelda, setting a hand on the princess's shoulder. "We're exhausted from our journey, and you both need to be up early tomorrow to prepare."

Without waiting for anyone to pipe up, Urbosa helped the Hylian Princess to her feet and ushered her out of the tent. Link watched, feeling rather amused as Daruk struggled to get up and follow after the two women quickly.

"I think she's -"

"Hey, you two," Urbosa called as she drew the tent aside. "Kodah is waiting out here for you both."

Link and Mipha exchanged a glance. The Hylian Champion remembered Kodah well. She was the first friend he'd made among the Zora and the reason he had fled to the Domain in the first place. Then, they'd had a falling out over his friendship with Mipha. Though they had gotten along since he had returned to the Domain, he wasn't sure how he felt about her wanting to speak to them the night before their wedding.

Mipha, on the other hand, smiled serenely. "She told me that she had a wedding present for us both." Still holding his hand as she stood, she guided him toward the curtain, which he held aside to let her pass.

On the other side of the curtain, Kodah stood. "Linny! Mipha!" she greeted warmly as she wrapped her arms around them both. "I know you both are busy but I just wanted to congratulate you both." The woman cleared her throat as she stepped back, "I also wanted to give you both a present as well." Reaching down into a bag resting against her side, she pulled out a framed piece of paper. "… This was quite hard to keep from decaying but it's still largely legible."

Kodah held out the frame, which Mipha accepted. Looking down at it, the Zora Princess's eyes widened and, after a second, a blush started to creep up her face. "Wh-where…?"

"I… may have stolen it from Link when we were children," the Zora woman admitted sheepishly.

Realization dawned on the Hylian, compelling him to reach out and take the frame. "O-oh," Mipha mumbled, her voice significantly higher in pitch than he was used to.

Extricating the letter gently from her hands, he smiled as a familiar greeting floated up from the framed message he held. "To whoever finds this letter..."

Though he knew the contents of the letter by heart, he still read it through as his fiancee stood next to him, fidgeting quite a lot. Not saying a word, he lowered the letter before quickly stepping forward to wrap Kodah up in a hug. Though it had hurt him terribly when the letter had disappeared, he couldn't find it in himself to be angry with her. Instead, he was incredibly grateful. Grateful that she had accepted his feelings, grateful that she had supported them since their return, and grateful that she had found a family and a happiness of her own.

"Thanks," he muttered, feeling two pairs of arms wrap around him in return.

The morning air was fresh and full of life with the sun shining down through a mostly cloudless sky. Though it had nothing on Death Mountain in Daruk's humble opinion, he knew it probably appealed more to the Zora Princess who stood next to him.

They stood on the bridge just outside of Zora's Domain, ready to process through the city once Revali gave the signal. Mipha and her father had thought it would be best to incorporate certain elements from Hylian tradition in the wedding. It was customary for the princess of the Zora to walk from the city's entrance to the throne room, while Hylian fathers would escort their daughters down the aisle. As such, the Zora King had asked that Daruk escort his daughter through the city on his behalf as he would be unable to do so. Thankfully, Dorephan didn't seem too bothered by his inability to escort his daughter and, when asked about it, he responded by asking how many fathers were able to witness their child's wedding at the foot of their throne.

Of course, Daruk figured that the tradition likely didn't mean as much to the Zora as it would a Hylian. After all, while he was excited for his brother and sister, he struggled with understanding all of the smaller details everyone else was obsessing over. He wondered if Dorephan was in a similar situation with many of the additions to the wedding that were Hylian in origin.

On the other side of the bridge, a crowd made up of the various different races inhabiting Hyrule gathered on either side of their path. The multicolored feathers of the Rito stood out from the luster of Zora scales, which glittered brilliantly. The Gerudo stood tall, with only the Gorons towering above them. The rocky denizens of Death Mountain were helping the Hylians and Shiekah by allowing those who hadn't made it to the front of the crowd to sit on their shoulders.

Daruk laughed loudly as a few of his brothers waved to him, forcing the Hylians on their shoulders to cling for dear life. The former Goron Champion returned their waves eagerly.

Above the throne room, a bright explosion bloomed into existence before disappearing in a cloud of smoke.

"Ya ready?" Daruk asked as he looked down at the Zora standing next to him.

"I am," Mipha replied warmly. Though he couldn't make out her expression from beneath the veil that covered her face (a wedding gift that Zelda had apparently presented her with that morning), Daruk could still imagine the smile she wore. It was the same one that had been lighting up her face since they had first reunited. It was a small, quiet smile, but it radiated a peace that eventually spread to everyone around her.

It did his heart good to see his little sister doing so well.

Daruk held his arm out, allowing Mipha to reach up and place a hand on it. It still looked incredibly awkward but it didn't stop them from beginning their procession into the city.

As they passed through the gates, the Zora within the crowd began singing as their children began running along the path just ahead, laughing, shouting, and splashing. It wasn't long until the Rito were harmonizing along as their chicks rushed out to join the Zora fry, followed by young Hylians and Gerudo. Unfortunately, none of the other children were quite as coordinated as the Zora children and so, Daruk was forced to devote most of his attention to not crushing them underneath. When he had a spare moment to look up, he noticed that several Hylian women had taken baskets full of flower petals and tossed them down from walkways above, filling the air with pinks, reds, blues, and yellows.

Even though it wasn't really to his taste, he had to admit it was beautiful. Though he loved Mipha dearly, he had to admit it was amazing to him that so many from the other races had chosen to show up and celebrate this moment with her.

The singing, dancing, and playing continued as they reached the courtyard that lay just before the throne room. Just as they had decided the night before, the two former Champions paused, giving Mipha the opportunity to take a couple of deep breaths.

"I'm ready," she murmured just loud enough for him to hear.

With a nod, Daruk escorted her up the stairs and into the throne room, pausing once at the entrance. The guests that had been invited stood in rows on either side of the room. Zora elders stood on either side of the room, creating a path leading to the foot of the throne, where Kapson stood. To the left, stood Link, whose eyes had settled on Mipha, watching every step she took. Beside him stood Revali, who stood with his wings folded behind his back, followed by Sidon, who seemed barely able to contain his grin. To the right, looking incredibly proud was Urbosa. Next to her stood Medli, who was trying to keep an eye on Mipha and Daruk while also trying to keep an eye on everything else, and finally Zelda, who smiled brightly. Above them all, King Dorephan sat, beaming down as he watched his daughter walk toward them.

As they passed, the elders held up a single arm in a salute, their fins draping down like banners. Unlike outside, the guests within the throne room remained silent as the two finally reached the makeshift altar. The Goron stood, watching proudly as Mipha left his side to stand by Link and Urbosa.

His job done, he turned left and joined Sidon.

"You did fantastically!" Sidon whispered excitedly.

"Thanks!"

"If you two are quite done." Both were silenced as they noticed Kapson and Revali glaring at them. The former Champion had a hard time feeling sorry as he watched both Link and Mipha shake slightly with silent laughter. The old Zora cleared his throat. "Now, as I was saying. Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today…"

"… I now pronounce you man and wife."

A charged silence fell over the room as Kapson closed the book he had been reading from. Perhaps it was just his nerves playing tricks on him but Link was certain that everyone was holding their breaths. He could see the likes of Yunobo and Sidon doing so, but Teba or Urbosa? Certainly, someone had to be breathing somewhere.

Knowing that he was being ridiculous, Link reached up and took the cloth that had veiled Mipha's face for the entire ceremony. Lifting it slowly, he couldn't help but forget everything else as he finally saw her warm smile clearly for the first time that day. Matching her smile with one of his own, he closed his eyes and leaned down, gently placing his forehead against hers.

Cheers erupted across the room as he nuzzled her tenderly and she reciprocated. They paused as the cheers continued, opening their eyes to lock gazes once again. He could see his own thoughts reflected in her kind eyes. While the road to this moment hadn't gone anything like what either one of them would have guessed but none of that really mattered. The only thing that was important was that they had arrived with their friends there beside them.

Taking half a step back, the Hylian took his wife's hand and intertwined his fingers with hers. Together, they raised their conjoined hands as they faced the crowd, eliciting more cheers. The Hylian saw many of the friends that had helped him and the rest of the Champions along the way. He wasn't much one for large groups of people but he was glad that each one had been able to make it as, without them, he wasn't sure that he and Mipha would have been standing there.

Bazz and Torfeau appeared before them, signaling to the two that it was time for the council to present them to the city.

Walking swiftly after their escort, Link and Mipha waved to their friends as they passed them by. Behind them, Revali, Urbosa, Sidon, Medli, Daruk, and Zelda all followed after.

Everything began to blur for Link as the Council introduced them to the crowds outside. He couldn't be entirely certain who all approached to wish them well, present gifts, or simply thank them for everything they had done for the kingdom. Thankfully, Mipha did most of the talking, allowing Link to simply stand quietly next to her. He wasn't sure how long they stood there, being greeted by one family after another until Bazz finally notified them that it was time to return to the throne room for the feast.

And suddenly, Link found himself sitting between Mipha and Revali at the side of King Dorephan. At some point, the empty spaces within the throne room had been filled with tables and chairs to seat guests.

Plates upon plates of food were being set on each table, filled to the brim with dishes that were native to each of Hyrule's races.

Link, finally coming out of his stupor, made use of all of his self-restraint as he kept himself from taking from every plate within reach. Making it more difficult was that several Zora, Rito, and Sheikah all passed him by, offering him portions of the delicacies they served to all of the guests. The Hylian Champion looked down at his meager plate of food (well, meager for any normal Hylian) and nearly sighed. Since it had been his wedding, King Dorephan had allowed him to oversee much of the feast's preparation. Link knew every dish that had been prepared and had been excited about all but one or two of them. That being said, as the groom, he knew that the eyes that weren't on Mipha would be on him and he had no desire to immediately embarrass his wife with his large appetite.

He would just have to sneak into the kitchens later and hope there were some leftovers.

Link could feel Revali's and Mipha's eyes boring into him, both probably concerned about his apparent lack of an appetite.

He was about to look over to his wife and give her a reassuring nod when he felt a scaly, clawed hand rest on his shoulder. The green of the scales as well as the slight wrinkles told him that it was Muzu who was standing behind him.

The old Zora leaned in and whispered in his ear. "The king has asked me to tell you that he will be quite insulted if you do not eat your fill."

The Hylian Champion craned his head back to find King Dorephan staring at him impassively.

Link gave a single nod of his head.

"Good. Just… remember proper etiquette, please," Muzu muttered.

Link nodded once again as his eyes returned to his plate, already doing the math on what was possible to fit on it. The elder left him be as the Hylian decided he might need multiple helpings.

He heard Mipha quietly giggling next to him as he began eating, a little more slowly than was typical of him. Muzu grumbled something from behind, but made no more complaints as above, King Doprephan joined in his daughter's merriment. That was just fine with Link. So long as he wasn't embarrassing his new family, he found it was rather easy to enjoy himself.

"You know, it's rude to keep a lady waiting, Big Guy," Urbosa said as Daruk and Yunobo finally joined everyone else at the top of the Veiled Falls.

"Sorry bout that," Daruk replied. "Yunobo and I got a little sidetracked on the way here."

"Yes… sidetracked." Urbosa raised a brow as she looked at the snow-feathered Rito archer. He had seemed particularly miffed since returning from his brief flight to check on the two Gorons.

"There were a lot of delectable rocks on the way here," the older of the two Gorons explained, seemingly unaware of Teba's irritation.

Urbosa didn't blame the archer one bit for the annoyance. When Zelda had requested that they join her at the top of the Veiled Falls, she had made it clear that time was of the essence. If Urbosa had to guess, whatever the Hylian Princess had in mind needed to be taken care of before the sunset. Daruk, who normally didn't waste time when he was needed, had chosen this particular instance to get distracted by food after going through several rock roasts during the feast not three hours ago.

Then again, it did give her time to reflect on the events she had witnessed earlier. Link and Mipha had danced, showing off their wonderful footwork. Revali and Medli had tried to dance; however, the few lessons Urbosa had given him the week before hadn't been enough to save him and Medli was simply hopeless. Luckily, the Rito Champion had been able to redeem himself in a few of the competitions that had followed. Zelda, Medli, and Mipha had taken time to catch up with Daruk and Urbosa, all while pleasantly greeting those that came to greet them and congratulate the Zora Princess.

Not long later, the Princess of Hyrule had sent out a few of the Sheikah to request that the Champions, as well the warriors that had helped them reclaim the Beasts, join her at the top of the Veiled Falls.

"It is quite all right." Zelda had changed considerably over the last hundred years. She had learned patience, both with herself and those around her yet she could be surprisingly stern when the occasion called for it. "There is still plenty of daylight left."

"That's right, so we had best not waste it!" Purah, normally having a penchant for fun, got straight to business. "Alright, Sidon, you're going to be in the very back."

"Okay!" The Zora Prince, after a few directions from Purah, found his place.

"Daruk on his left… no his left."

"Sorry."

"Yunobo, on Sidon's right. Good, just like that." Purah then turned to the others. "Teba, in front of Yunobo… step to the - right there. Perfect!"

Teba simply folded his wings.

"Yeah, get all of that out of your system now," Purah ordered dismissively. "Revali next to Teba and Medli next to Revali… aren't you all friends? Come on, move in! We don't have a whole lotta room you know." Urbosa watched amusedly as Teba dropped his, pouting in a very Revali-esque manner as the two other Rito sidled up to him. Urbosa couldn't help but grin as she noticed the similarities between master and student.

"Alright, Urbosa, next to Medli. That's a lovely smile you got there. Can't wait to see your final pose."

What did that mean?

"Riju, in front of Teba… Can you make yourself any taller?"

"…No"

"Allow me." Buliara stepped in, lifting the Chieftain on her shoulders.

"Perfect, though you'll need to move between Revali and Teba." Urbosa leaned in, watching as her fellow Gerudo shuffle around a bit. "Right there!"

"Thank you, Buliara."

"I am simply fulfilling my duty," the woman replied.

Purah frowned as she held up the Sheikah Slate. "Uh… can you actually move back between-"

Rather than waiting for direction from the Sheikah scientist, the woman crouched down.

"- huh… Yeah, that'll work." Urbosa straightened as Purah turned back to the last of the group.

"Link, next to Buliara and Riju. Mipha I think - yep, you get it… Why don't you two lovebirds turn toward each other slightly? Yes! Beautiful! Zelda?"

The Princess of Hyrule came to rest in front of Urbosa. The Gerudo woman set a hand on the girl's shoulder as Purah made a few last-minute adjustments.

"No, Midna, you cannot be in the picture." The wolf refused to move, instead planting her rear just in front of Link's feet. "Midna, you're not even big enough to- who am I kidding, you can't even understand me." The girl continued muttering to herself as she peered through the Slate. "I don't like the way this is tilted… Symin?"

Her assistant stepped forward, setting down a box before promptly setting the girl down on the box.

"Hmm, thanks," she muttered as she made a few adjustments. "I think that about does it. All right! Everyone, get ready."

Urbosa could feel everyone around her stiffen, trying to look their best for the picture that was about to be taken. All except Daruk, who was muttering something to Yunobo.

"You intend to do what?!" Sidon hissed.

"Three… two…" as soon as the girl said one, everything fell apart. Sidon lunged forward, pushing through Revali and Medli to wrap his arms around his two siblings as rocky arms reached out to embrace everyone on both sides. Urbosa, who had been expecting something of such a nature to happen, wrapped the girl in front of her in a single-arm and used the other one to try and stabilize the Rito girl next to her. "… Snap!"

The Sheikah scientist looked at the photo for a moment before bursting into laughter. "Yeah, that's about what I expected!"

"Wha…?" Medli asked, sounding incredibly dazed as Zelda laughed against Urbosa.

"May I?" Zelda asked as her laughter finally subsided. Taking the Slate from Purah, she looked into its face.

The Hylian Princess began laughing as Urbosa looked over her shoulder. Daruk's head just barely appeared above her own, but his face was alight with a huge grin. On the other side, Yunobo's eyes were screwed shut as he had an almost panicked expression on his face. In front of the younger Goron, Teba wore a shocked expression as he was knocked off balance inward. Next to him, Revali wore an equally shocked expression as he was knocked toward the outside. Urbosa hadn't seen what happened, but she could only imagine they had collided rather painfully.

Riju looked surprised at the encroaching hands while Buliara was captured in the middle of an eye roll. Between Link and Mipha, who had somehow maintained their smiles, were crushed up together as Sidon's face appeared between theirs, his arms wrapping them in a protective hug.

And, off to the right side, Zelda stood with an almost mischievous, knowing smile as Urbosa appeared behind her with an equally troublesome grin.

While it may not have been the ideal image to capture, Urbosa could not imagine a picture that was less chaotic. To her, it was a perfect representation of everything they had been through.

"Thank you, Purah," Zelda said as she handed the Slate back to the Sheikah scientist. Chaos still reigned behind them as just about everyone wanted to give the three largest members of the group a piece of their mind; however, the Princess of Hyrule wandered to the edge of the Falls.

Zelda peered out over the landscape below as Urbosa joined her, wrapping an arm around her. "I know that something that lies in the future is troubling you," she stated quietly as Daruk joined her. Revali appeared by him, followed shortly by Link and Mipha. "But I hope you know that, no matter what the future holds, we will be there to face it with you together."

"And you will have our support as well."

They turned, seeing the four warriors that had helped them on their journey lined up behind them.

"Thank you," Zelda murmured, "all of you."

Side by side, they all stared out over the landscape that had been embroiled in conflict for over a century. While Urbosa didn't care to guess what lay on the horizon, she was determined to face it head-on at her Little Bird's side.

And she knew that determination was reflected in the hearts of each warrior that stood beside her. That was something she could believe in. Something that made it possible to have faith in the future they had fought so hard to protect.

Just as her little bird had done for one hundred years.

A/N: The Champions of Hyrule will return

"I gotta bad feelin' about this," Daruk muttered as he looked around the cavernous hallway. Though he held a torch suitable for a Goron, it did very little to illuminate the darkness that shrouded the passageway. Even the Sheikah glyphs that lined the walls were unable to completely pierce the darkness.

"I agree, Little Bird," Urbosa stated as her hand caressed the hilt of her blade. "We shouldn't be here."

"I feel it too," Zelda murmured as she followed the path marked on the Slate she held. Though her two retainers lacked the sensitivity to evil that she possessed, it didn't surprise her that they were able to sense it. If she lacked the knowledge and resilience she had accumulated over the past century, she likely would have fled the caverns, convinced that they desired nothing more than to swallow her whole. Thankfully, Daruk and Urbosa both seemed to be resisting the darkness well enough. They had started off rather cheerfully, making banter and small talk, even being so bold as to ask what Impa thought about the catacombs. With every step, their cheerful attitude fell to the wayside as they now watched the shadows carefully, expecting a fight.

A number of Sheikah refused to set foot in the caverns, and those that continued to do so made it a point to spend no more than a few hours beneath the castle. It was impressive that the Goron and Gerudo carried on with very few complaints. Yet another reminder that she and her father had not been wrong to select them as the Champions of their respective races.

"Little Bird, what -"

Everyone stopped as they entered a large, circular room. After what must have been several hours, they finally reached their destination.

Around the room, Malice was pulsating chaotically, as though it felt them just as they could feel it. From somewhere they could not see, glowing golden chains extended toward the room's center, wrapping around a figure they could just barely see. What was left of his skin was grey and pulled taught across his body, which hung limp, the chains alone supporting his weight. What was left of his clothes had clearly been designed in the fashion of the Gerudo, with his arms and chest largely exposed. Squinting to try and make out as much detail as possible, Zelda spotted tattoos bearing symbols of the desert-dwelling race.

Just as she had thought, what was left of Ganon's Gerudo form had been imprisoned beneath the castle.

The sound of a sword scraping against its sheath caught Zelda's attention. Her hand flew out, catching Urbosa's arm before she could charge.

"Your blade will do nothing," Zelda murmured. "Besides, I did not bring you here to kill him."

"Little sister?"

Zelda ignored the Goron as she touched the sealing power within, feeling the warmth of it fill her and extend outwards. Taking a step forward, she addressed the corpse before her. "I know you can hear me."

The body remained motionless.

Undeterred, she continued speaking. "And I know that the enemy we face is yours as well. We both know that we cannot fight it off alone. That is why you are going to help us."

Several seconds of silence passed before the body twitched. A sickening pop echoed through the room as the man's head raised, glowing red eyes springing to life.

A/N: Ganondorf will return