Three Months Later

A warm spring breeze flowed into Zelda's study through the open window. After a harsh and cold winter, it was a welcome change from the bitter gale that had only brought promises of snow and ice in the winter months following the end of the war. With the sun high in the sky and only a few clouds in sight, it was one of the nicest days of the new year.

Even with the war finally over, it had been a difficult and brutal season. While this winter had been moderate compared to years past, the simple fact was that Hyrule hadn't been prepared for it. With the chaos that transpired in Castle Town during Zelda's absence, the damage caused by Zant's attacks, and the casualties from the war against Mudora, most of the nation's resources had either been used up or destroyed. Combined with the doubts of the people concerning the strength of her leadership, Zelda found the long winter months some of the most challenging of her reign.

Thankfully, Labrynna, Holodrum, and even Termina had proven to be valuable allies by lending resources and manpower to help Hyrule begin the rebuilding process. It was as if fighting together in the war had brought the four nations closer together than ever before. Their troops had worked with Hylian troops to restore order to Castle Town and provide supplies to the rural communities whose crops had been destroyed by the war before they could be harvested. Zelda herself often braved the cold to lead these trips when she could, determined to personally oversee the rebuilding effort as much as possible. It never failed to touch her to see the large smiles of the children and the laughter of the elderly whenever a caravan arrived into town with wagons full of food.

After such a long and arduous season, the spring breeze caressing her cheek was more than just the signal of spring's arrival. As she rested her arms on the window's mantle, she thought about how it offered new hope and a chance to further the rebuilding process. People would no longer have to fight against the cold every second they were outside. Roads would no longer be blocked, allowing necessary supplies and people to travel in and out of the city. Spring was a time of rebirth for plants and animals that had hibernated through the long winter; in many ways, Hyrule was awakening from its own long slumber.

Zelda gazed at the vast field that surrounded her kingdom. There were still small patches of snow scattered across the ground. The buds of the trees hadn't quite emerged yet either. But something in the air still smelled like spring. It was the first warm day in a long time and the birds were enjoying every minute of it. Their songs carried to her ears as they perched on a spire near her window.

Zelda turned back to her study and observed how different the room looked even from a few weeks ago. It was hard to believe that it was this room where it had all started. It seemed like a lifetime ago when Midna had stopped Scorpio's assassination attempt.

Some of the furniture, like the desk, had been replaced. This room, often used for more intimate meetings with dignitaries and political officials, had been one of the first rooms in the castle remodeled and repaired. Winter had slowed down the effort, but that hadn't stopped Ramiro from directing the staff's efforts to where he thought they were needed most.

The books were all sorted in alphabetical order. The desk, crafted by a master carver in Castle Town, smelled of fresh wainscot. The chair, resting comfortably within the hollow of the desk, seemed to be freshly carved as well. The candles, currently unnecessary due to the flood of sunlight, were checked by the castle staff at the top of every hour.

Zelda slowly walked to her desk and focused on the treaty that lay in front of her. She had been working with her advisors for days to get it worded just right. It remained one of the last remaining challenges from the war and she wanted it to be perfect.

The treaty outlined Hyrule's relationship with Nevkah.

In some ways, Mudora's words had proven true. Because of his actions, the four nations that fought together during the war were closer than ever after the war. However, the same couldn't be said for the nation of shifters. There had always been an aura of mystery to the shifters that had allowed many to consider their existence a myth. Those who knew the truth were content to let the shifters alone so long as they never crossed their border. However, since the end of the war, awareness of their existence had spread like wildfire throughout the world. Along with that awareness came many horror stories from the soldiers, some real and some exaggerated, that spread both fear and resentment across the lands.

Zelda knew that if these negative stigmas weren't addressed right away that it could lead to another war just as bad as the one they had just survived. The world couldn't afford that war. That's why she wanted to make sure the peace treaty was fair to both sides. The task was easier said than done.

Zelda knew that shifters respected strength more than anything else. If she didn't come across with that strength, they would never respect her or any offer of peace she proposed. In just one more day, she would meet with the ambassador from Nevkah for the first time since the war's outbreak. The success or failure of that treaty would depend on how that ambassador, and indirectly, the new Alpha, viewed her. Even thinking about it made the palms of her hands sweat.

She sat down at the desk and reached for her ink quill to add a piece of punctuation she had noticed was missing. She was forced to stop when her bandaged hand only succeeded in pushing the quill further away. She inwardly scolded herself and reached for it with her left hand.

Despite the best doctors in Hyrule looking at it, the damage Geroshida had done to her right hand was irreversible and had rendered it practically unusable except for simple tasks. The process of learning to use her non-dominant hand to take over those tasks was daunting. Sometimes she wondered how long it would be until people started calling her the "One-Handed Queen."

Still, with the occasional winter storm keeping her trapped in the castle for days at a time, she used the lull in responsibilities to become more proficient at using her left hand. As she reached for the quill and began to write with it, it reminded her of the sacrifices this war had cost her and many others. It also reminded her that although life would never be the same, it was possible to move beyond those sacrifices towards a brighter future.

A gentle knock on the door turned Zelda's attention across the room. Ramiro poked his head in, his pale face looking older than usual.

"Your Majesty, there's someone here to see you."

Zelda's heart stopped. "Is it the ambassador from Nevkah? I thought he wasn't set to arrive until tomorrow."

The bald man shook his head. "No, Your Majesty. But it is a visitor I think you'll want to see. He claims to know you quite well and wanted to visit you while he was in the area. He says it's been a while since you saw each other last."

The monarch placed her hand pensively on the desk as she thought of who he might be referring to. With all her work rebuilding Hyrule, she never had the time to visit any of the friends she had fought with in the war. Colin was the only person she saw somewhat consistently, so she knew Ramiro couldn't be referring to him.

"What's this gentleman's name?"

"He goes by the name of Link, Your Majesty."

Her lip curled into a sly smile. "Well, don't just stand there. Bring him up here!"

Ramiro fumbled an acknowledgment and immediately left the room, closing the door rather loudly behind him.

Zelda put the quill back in its container and leaned forward in her chair. She mused about what the hero's visit could mean.

The hero had come back to Hyrule shortly after the war to aid with the rebuilding. Then, in typical Link fashion, he disappeared along with Midna. No one knew where he had gone. She wondered if the strain from the war had been so much on him that he had gone to calm his spirit. At least he had brought Midna with him this time.

Zelda felt a slight pang in her heart as her thoughts lingered on the hero. She thought back to her dance with him at Ambi's ball and smiled. Even if it was a short memory, it was one she treasured. She wasn't sure why she harbored such selfish and futile thoughts. Even so, she enjoyed having the freedom to entertain them without being reprimanded.

She sometimes wondered how their relationship would have played out if they had met under different circumstances. What if they had grown up as childhood friends? What if she wasn't burdened with the mantle of royalty from a very young age? What if she was free to roam the seas at her leisure instead of listening to every complaint the people could think of?

In the secrecy of her thoughts, she lived out these private fantasies and gathered whatever girlish delight she could. They were welcome escapes, especially when real life brought so much stress. Sometimes she even prayed to the goddesses they might come true someday. After all, if her and Link shared as profound a connection as she thought, then anything was possible.

Zelda snapped out of her thoughts when she heard the knob turning on the door across from her. There was a gentle rap on the wooden surface before the door slowly squeaked open. The hero popped his head through the crack.

"Zelda? You there?" he asked tentatively.

The monarch waved for him to step inside. "Yes, Link. I'm right here. Come on in."

The hero gained more confidence and stepped completely into the room, closing the door gently behind him.

Zelda was shocked to see him not wearing his usual clothes. Instead of his usual green tunic, he wore a maroon doublet over a white cotton undershirt with black pants. A brown leather belt held the outfit together. His normally unkempt hair was combed to the sides with a part down the middle. There was no cap in sight.

"I don't think I've ever seen you this dressed up," Zelda commented, looking him over as she got up from her chair to greet him. She had to admit it made him look quite dashing. "At least not since Ambi's ball."

Link grabbed a portion of the vest's material and rubbed it between two fingers. "Yeah, you and I both."

"Then what's the occasion?" Zelda teased as she gave him a hug. It felt good to have his strong arms around her, even if it was only for a second. They pulled away and she gave him a playful smile. "Surely, you didn't dress up just to see me."

The hero chuckled, lowering his shoulders as he became more relaxed. "I guess you could say I'm trying out a new look. Apparently, Midna liked the way I looked at Ambi's ball and wants me to dress like that more often."

Zelda nodded her approval. "I have to say it looks good on you. But I suppose I shouldn't get too used to it, right?"

Link smiled. "Yeah, I might accidentally leave these clothes in the street later today."

Zelda laughed softly as she pulled an extra chair closer to the window. "Do you want to sit down, Link?"

Link held up a hand. "Perhaps in a minute. I'm fascinated by this study. I don't think I've ever been here before. Compared to the rest of the castle, it's quite cozy."

Zelda took the seat closest to the window. The spring breeze felt good against her neck. "Not many people get to see it. Only special ambassadors and close friends."

Link ran his finger along the spines of books that lined the shelves. "So which am I?"

Zelda tilted her head out of curiosity. "Isn't it obvious?"

The hero nodded. "I guess so." He took out one book detailing the geography of Hyrule during the age of the First Hero and gave it a quick scan. "I've been in town for a few days. I have to say the reconstruction is progressing quite well."

The monarch nodded. "We've had a lot of help. Everyone's really pitched in to get things back to normal again. But we still have a long way to go."

Link put the book back on the shelf and gave Zelda a warm smile. "You're doing a really good job. Guess you don't need me after all."

Zelda wasn't sure how to respond to his comment so she shifted the subject. "So I hear you've been around for a few days. Have you had the chance to visit with any of the others?"

Link nodded. "Yeah, I stopped back in Ordon before I came out here. Even saw Tifa for a bit. It was really great to see everyone."

"How are they all doing?"

Link's smile widened as he thought about his friends. "Tifa and Tatl are doing well. They stick mostly to the forest but manage to visit Ordon from time to time. That's how I ran into her. She was excited to show me all the new songs she's learned on the ocarina."

The image brought a warm smile to Zelda's face. "How are her injuries? Last I saw her, she still looked pretty bad."

Link leaned against the bookshelf. "They're healing nicely. There are still scars on her stomach and legs, but I think she's proud of them. She loves telling the other Kokiri how she got them saving the world."

Zelda thought of the sacrifice the Kokiri had made for them. She knew if it wasn't for Tifa's courage, none of them would still be here.

"The rest of the villagers are doing well," Link continued. "Colin and Ilia seem to be in especially good spirits since they have each other." The hero continued walking along the side of the bookshelf, his hand brushing against the book bindings as he passed them. "It seems their relationship has gotten more serious. I always saw them together. They were so cute that I almost barfed."

Zelda smiled. "Did you know that Colin is going to be Hyrule's ambassador to Nevkah?"

Link halted and looked at the monarch. "Is that so?" He looked down at his boots. "He didn't mention that in Ordon. That's great!"

The monarch nodded. "He even volunteered for the position as soon as he heard about it." Her eyes glanced to the treaty on her desk. "I'm really going to need someone like him…someone who has actually seen a shifter and understands how they think."

Link looked down at his boots. "He's really matured over the past year. I guess Atrayu was right to trust him with her will after all." He looked back up. "I look forward to seeing him often then!"

Zelda was once again puzzled by his remark but decided the hero would elaborate on it if he chose.

"Have you heard anything from Rishu lately?" she asked.

Link nodded. "Actually I have! I ran into him and his band playing in the main square on my way over here. Turns out they are playing here for the next few days as part of their spring tour." Link paused. "Did you know he and Lola are now engaged?"

"Who?"

Link shrugged his shoulders. "Oh, right. I forgot you didn't meet her in Termina. Lola is…was his girlfriend. They've been together for over ten years."

Zelda wrinkled her brow. "That's a long time to court someone."

Link nodded. "Yeah, well he wasn't exactly the most responsible Zora out there. He never considered it a priority. I guess something about the war changed him."

Zelda folded her arms and rolled her eyes. "Typical Rishu." She crossed her legs. "So when's the wedding? Are we invited?"

The hero looked away. "Technically, we are invited. But I'm not sure we want to go."

"Why not?"

Link leaned his weight to one side and scuffed his other boot against the floor. His hands retreated to his pockets. "Well, Rishu is overseeing the wedding menu. I'm not sure anything I've had of his could be classified as edible."

"What about the other wedding guests? Surely they wouldn't stand for it."

Link shrugged his shoulders. "Well, ever since Rishu came back, he's become a bit of a war hero. The popularity of both his dishes and his songs has skyrocketed with the Zora crowd. They actually like his cooking now."

"I see," Zelda replied. She pointed to the chair next to her. "While it's great to hear about the others, I want to hear how you and Midna are doing. Why don't you sit down and catch me up on your life?"

Link couldn't wipe the smile off his face. "Things are going really well for us. Things are certainly challenging at times, especially being in such different circumstances than we're used to. But we're getting along well and I'm excited for what the future has in store for us."

Zelda's eyes narrowed. "Link, where have you two been all this time anyways? No one has heard from either of you for months."

Link began walking over to the chair when he caught sight of the document sprawled on her desk. "You mean you don't know?" He walked over to the treaty and picked up a few pages.

Zelda shook her head. "I'm afraid I'm in the dark. Like I said, no one else seems to know either."

Link read the first few lines of the document. "Is this peace treaty for Nevkah?"

Now Zelda was really confused. There was clearly something she was missing.

"Yes it is. Why do you ask?"

Link shrugged his shoulders and put the paper back down where he'd found it. "Well, I look forward to reviewing it with you."

Zelda couldn't take it anymore. She pointed firmly to the chair. "Link! Will you just sit down and tell me what in Farore's name is going on? I feel like you're not telling me something important!"

Link finally heeded her instructions and sat down beside her. "Oh, I forgot that you haven't heard yet." He gave her a sly smile. "I'm the new Alpha."

It took the words a few seconds to sink in. When they did, Zelda jumped out of her chair. "Wait! Alpha? As in the leader of Nevkah? That's you? When did this happen?"

Link chuckled at the monarch's surprise. He rarely saw her so flustered. When he did, it was always quite a treat. "Technically, it happened the moment I killed Mudora. Realistically, it took a little longer than that for me to adjust to the position."

The shock still hadn't passed. "But how? Why?"

Link nodded. "Remember how whoever defeats the current Alpha becomes the new one? That's how Mudora was able to command the loyalty of the shifters in the first place. When I killed Mudora, I technically defeated the old Alpha and became the new one. Of course, that wasn't my intent, but things sort of worked out that way."

"And you're okay remaining as their Alpha?" Zelda asked, finally calming down and returning to her chair. "That can't be an easy position."

Link reclined in his chair, throwing his arm on the armrest as he looked up at the ceiling. "You know, Zelda? I feel strange saying it, but I feel like this is one thing I truly was destined for. I resisted the idea when Atrayu first presented it to me, but now I can't see myself doing anything else."

Zelda leaned towards him. "And why's that?"

"Because I'm the only half-shifter in existence," Link beamed proudly. "I'm the only one who knows what it's like to be both human and shifter. I understand the desires of a shifter and their thirst for battle. At the same time, I understand there's a time and place for it and that our nation can't live in isolation anymore."

Zelda nodded her head as she listened. "It's important as a ruler to keep everyone in mind when making a decision. I'm glad they chose both a strong and kind king." She grinned playfully again. "I have to say that you don't really fit the stereotype of a ruler though. Is Midna really the one pulling the strings?"

Link looked at her and feigned insult. "What's the matter? You don't think I'd make a good king?" His feigned expression faded away. "Actually, she's probably the reason the nation hasn't crumpled under my rule yet. She's been doing this far longer than I have. In fact, she's watching over things now while I'm here."

"How is she adjusting to life there?"

"She's adjusted surprisingly well. The shifters think she is weird looking, but she keeps them on their toes with her quick wit and affinity with magic." He winked at the monarch. "It also doesn't hurt that they see her as the Alpha's mate."

Zelda smiled nervously. "That's one way to put it, I suppose."

Link looked across the room. "But in all seriousness, I think this gives her a second chance at redemption." He paused, wondering whether he wanted to divulge the thought circulating through his mind. Eventually, he gave in. "Losing her people has been difficult on her. At least she now has somewhere she can focus her attention."

Zelda nodded. "I understand her pain well."

Link leaned forward in his chair "Midna hasn't been the only help as I try and navigate these unknown, treacherous waters. Rin and Eidel have really taught me a lot about the culture and customs of Nevkah." A child-like grin crossed his lips. "And I have to say…it's kind of cool to hear about my heritage from my mom."

Zelda smile became more genuine. "I'm excited to be working together to bring a new era of peace between both of our nations. To be honest, I was worried about the trustworthiness of the Nevkah diplomat. I can't tell you how relieved I am to discover it's you."

Link nodded. "I agree. But even so, I think Mudora was right when he said achieving true peace will be our most difficult task to date. After all, there's still a lot of tension between Nevkah and the other nations. A lot of distrust too. We're going to have to work together if we're going to bring down some of those barriers." The hero looked down. "After all, that's what Kariwould want."

Zelda placed a hand over his. "Do you miss him?"

Link nodded. "Sometimes more than I realize. Most of the time I'm preoccupied with dealing with shifters. But when things settle down and I'm alone with my thoughts, I start to realize how much he meant to me and taught me. I still wish he didn't have to go."

"You had a chance to wish him back using the Triforce? Why didn't you?"

Link looked at Zelda. "Something about it didn't seem right. I think Kari knew it was his time to go, and it would've been selfish for me to stop him. Instead, I chose to honor his memory by looking towards the future and starting to heal the wounds caused by this war."

Zelda nodded. "I think I understand what you mean. I guess you also could've wished that this war never happened in the first place. But what would be the result? We would've gained nothing. We would've learned nothing." She sighed. "I hate to admit it, but because of this struggle, everyone has a greater appreciation for peace and freedom." She looked to her mangled hand. "After all, it took a lot of sacrifices for us to earn it. Hopefully we'll treasure it more as a result.

Link nodded. "Rusl. Geoffrey. Atrayu. Kari. Countless others. They all gave their lives so that we could have a future. Now it's up to us to make sure that future is one worth living."

Zelda smiled and took her hand in his. "Agreed." She gave him an odd look. "Speaking of the Triforce, whatever happened to Geroshida and Scorpio? Is the Triforce safe?"

Link looked straight ahead. "Geroshida was sealed in the Underworld where Mudora used to be. And without its leader, Scorpio's membership has plummeted to an all-time low. I hope we never hear from either again." He gave her a sly wink. "As for the Triforce, it's in a safe place. That's all I can say."

Zelda returned the smile and looked out the window. "Where do you think Kari is now?"

Link looked through the window at the clouds rolling by. "I'm sure that wherever Kari is…he's looking down on us and smiling. After all, he promised me that he would always watch over me."

Zelda smiled. "And we all know Kari doesn't joke around."

Link chuckled. "Indeed he doesn't." The hero rose from his chair. "Well, shall we begin to discuss this treaty?" He pulled his chair to the desk. "If we have our work cut out for us, we might as well get started. The world isn't going to make itself a better place."

"So he attempted that all by himself?" a figure asked, standing in the sea as the waves licked at his pant legs. The young man shook his feet in an attempt to be rid of the seaweed that had accumulated by his boots.

It was a bright, sunny day, but the young man chose to stand in the shade of a hollow rock that extended over the sea. The cries of gulls reached his ears as the sea birds rode the air currents above the vast body of water. The smell of air mixed with the aroma of cooked food from the island town further up the hill.

"I'm afraid so," came the other speaker's voice, a figure that couldn't quite be described as human. His voice was deep and carried authority in his words, like one who had experienced many things in his life. "He went straight in after her. Nearly got himself killed doing it."

The young man nodded, stepping out of the shade to look up the hill at the sprawling town just ahead. There was no road from where he stood, but it wasn't difficult to reach the established settlement. A large windmill stood in the center of town, surrounded by smaller buildings scattered in the immediate area. Even from here, the calls of merchants carried over to where he stood as they hoped to attract the attention of potential customers. It reminded the young man of Kakariko, a place he hadn't seen in a long time.

"Why would he do that?" the young man, a Sheikah, asked curiously. He watched the windmill turn with mild interest. In truth, he already knew the answer to his own question.

The second speaker replied, his neck and face rigid from their wooden construction. "Well, he's only a boy. And his sister was kidnapped. Wouldn't you do the same?

The young man nodded. "Perhaps." A smirk spread across his lips. "But I wouldn't be as reckless."

The second figure shook his head. "While he's got courage in spades, he lacks any sort of common sense."

The Sheikah's red eyes wandered to a few pigs trotting in the grass leading to town. They seemed out of place on such a bustling island. Things were certainly different here than what he was used to. He walked back beneath the shade of the rock and turned his attention back to the other speaker.

"Did he know that a giant bird would be waiting for him? Did you warn him?"

His question was met with silence.

"Where is he now?" the young man asked, understanding he might not receive an answer. Not that he cared. That's not what he was here for.

"He's in town fetching us a sail. We won't get very far on these waters without it."

The young man looked over the other speaker, a boat with a red lion's head as the bow. It occurred to him that if anyone saw them conversing, they would find it most peculiar that a man was conversing with a boat. Then again, this was no ordinary boat.

"What about Zelda? Is she safe?" the Sheikah asked.

The boat's face grew suspicious. "She is perfectly safe. No one is aware of her true identity. Not even she knows who she really is. She travels the seas in blissful ignorance."

The Sheikah nodded. He and the Zelda of his time had often conversed about how it felt to be restricted by rules and regulations. He knew it had always bothered her. He was glad that at least in this lifetime, she would be able to enjoy freedom for a time.

"And who else knows who you really are?" the Sheikah asked.

"I am known only as the King of Red Lions, and that is how I prefer it." There was an edge to the boat's voice. "I know you mentioned that you were a servant of the goddesses, but I'm afraid I never caught your name. What did you say it was again?"

"I never told you my name," the young man replied. "But you may refer to me as Kari."

"I see," the King of Red Lions said. The boat gave him a hard glare. "So why so much interest in the boy? Do you seek to harm him?"

Kari shrugged his shoulders. "If I sought to hurt him, I would find him myself instead of talking to you."

The talking boat nodded. "That is a fair point. Then why are you looking for him?"

"You could say I'm keeping a promise to an old friend. I'm here to give the boy something I think he'll find useful." The Sheikah reached into his cloak and pulled out a silver baton.

The King of Red Lions gazed in shock at the instrument. "The Wind Waker? Where did you get that? No one has seen that for years!"

Kari nodded. "You could say I've been keeping it safe for a while." He held out his hand. "I want you to give this to the boy."

The King of Red lions looked suspiciously at the Sheikah. "Why me? Can't you do that yourself?"

Kari smiled and looked up at the town. "It's complicated. Just like you'd rather not reveal your true identity, I'd rather not reveal myself if I can avoid it."

The boat shook his wooden head. "I'm afraid I don't understand."

Kari looked to the Wind Waker in his hand. "You don't need to. All I ask is that you give the boy the Wind Waker when he's ready. Can you do that for me?"

The King of Red Lions grabbed the baton with his mouth and stored it in a hollow compartment for later retrieval. "If you insist."

Kari nodded and stepped back, the water swishing as his legs moved through it. He peered around the rock's edge and saw the young boy running in their direction.

"He's heading this way. I must be going."

Before the King of Red Lions could say anything, Kari jumped out of sight and onto the roof of a building overlooking the cliff. From there, he was able to gain a better look at the boy.

He was the spitting image of Link. Although much younger, the boy's parted blonde hair, cheerful blue eyes, and familiar green tunic reminded Kari of his old friend. Memories came rushing back of when the two of them fought together against Mudora.

Kari smiled as young Link stopped what he was doing and wandered over to the nearby pigs. He scattered some bait across the ground. The pigs scampered over and eagerly started consuming it. While they were distracted, Link mischievously drew his sword and started poking the pigs gently with the tip of the blade. Sensing no reaction, he continued to push his luck.

Eventually, he pushed his luck too far. After poking one of the pigs one time too many, it gave a loud squeal and started chasing after him. The others soon joined. Link took off running before the pigs bowled him over. The boy raced all over the field but was unable to shake his pursuers. The pigs' little feet scuttled rapidly against the ground as they chased him relentlessly. Eventually, Link ran towards the town, hoping it might offer him solace.

Kari chuckled. Even in a completely different place and time, Link's personality remained intact. This time his mischievous streak had come back to bite him. The King of Red Lions was right about one thing: this boy had no common sense.

Even so, Kari felt a profound connection to the boy as if they'd been friends for ages.

"Link, you and I met a long time ago in a different place, yet our friendship now spans lifetimes. Although you won't remember me, know that I am still watching over you as I promised. I look forward to seeing your heroic acts touch the lives of everyone you encounter here on this vast sea. After all, it was your warmth and strength that touched this hardened Sheikah and turned him into one of your most valuable friends."

The Sheikah smiled as Link disappeared into the island town. His purpose complete, Kari disappeared as quietly as he came. The wind inhaled his departing words and carried them on its vast breath.

"Although our journey together ended long ago, I look forward to watching this new legend unfold."

THE END

Final A/N – Wow! It's finally here! After nearly six years of work, this story is finally complete. What an incredible journey it's been! I admit there were times I was ready to quit on this story. There were other times when I felt the end was only a few pages away. Either way, we've finally made it. Thank you, all of you, for staying with me and reading this until the very end!

This is my last author's note to all of you, so I want to take some time and reflect on this story a bit. This story really has morphed above and beyond the original concept six years ago. So much has changed, both in my own life, and in the world of these characters. With all that being said, there were a few things I wanted this story to achieve from the beginning.

I wanted to create a living, breathing world with an intricate history that combined elements from all the Legend of Zelda games in a realistic manner.

I wanted believable, relatable characters with weaknesses, struggles, hopes, and dreams that people could relate to. For those from the games, I wanted to really flesh out their characters. For original characters, I wanted them to blend in the Zelda world naturally.

Finally, I wanted a plot that brought it all together. I wanted one that was both complex enough to keep from being predictable but also simple enough that anyone could follow it. I wanted it to draw from the game's rich world while also challenging the characters.

I hope this story was able to live up to its lofty expectations. I, for one, am incredibly proud with how the final product turned out! I hope all of you feel the same!

I also wanted to point out a few bits of trivia from this story that some of you may have picked up on:

There is a reference to every main Zelda game in this story except Phantom Hourglass (excluding CD-I)

Atrayu's name came from a character in "The Never-Ending Story" (also an appropriate name for this story)

Quite a few Fire Emblem characters made cameos throughout the book

It has always been my dream to write a Zelda novel ever since reading "Eloze." I was sad that amazing story was never finished, so I vowed I would write one of my own. I also made a promise I would finish my story. I have now kept that promise.

I want to thank all my readers who have been so supportive to the very end. Many of you may not have been here from the beginning, but you're here now and that's all that counts. Your reviews and encouragement have been instrumental in seeing this project completed. It's your reviews that gave me the motivation to finally finish this story!

I have a special request for those of my readers who are here now but don't usually review. I really want to hear your thoughts and how you felt about this story as a whole. If you've enjoyed reading this story even a little bit, I'd love to hear about it. If you think there are things that could be improved, I want to hear that too! Your readership is just as important to me even if you choose to remain anonymous. After all, it's a significant investment to read all 68 chapters of this. So thank you so much!

Lastly, I would like to take this opportunity to also say goodbye to this great community. Kasuto's Redemption has been an incredible project and one I will always remember. While I have enjoyed the countless hours devoted to bringing this story to completion, I'm afraid I just don't have that time anymore to commit to a new project. For those looking for a sequel, I'm afraid there won't be one. I have loved crafting this world, but I think it's time to lay it to rest. I love writing so I will likely continue to do so outside of fanfiction. If you'd like to continue to read whatever else I come up with, feel free to send me a private message and I'd love to keep in contact.

This is it, everyone! Thank you so much for everything! Please review and let me know what you thought!

For the final time, this is Vopi…signing off!

EDIT (12/6/14) : Although I have decided not to create a sequel for this story, an idea has come up for a prequel to this universe. I am contemplating writing a story that takes during the years before Skyward Sword, when Mudora, Hylia, and the Fierce Deity are at war with Demise. I'm thinking this story could dive more into Mudora's backstory and his relationships with the other two. If you're interested in this idea, please let me know. I'm not committed to the idea, but the more positive support I get, the more likely it is to happen!

Vopi signing off for real this time!

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Last Saved: 10/21/2014 12:38:00 AM