***
Link woke with the dawn, meeting Ava and Midna on the cool morning sands of the beach. The sun set everything glistening with a pale golden hue; even the flames of Midna’s eyes seemed subdued, gentler, in that warm gold light.
She smiled at him, sweetly but calmly. It was as though the conversations of last night had never occurred. And yet, it was like the very opposite all at once. Link felt his heart jump towards her as if to draw her into a tight embrace. He refrained from showing any sign of this, but a wall seemed to have been broken between them. Perhaps it was that wall which had forbid either of admitting feelings for the other. He couldn’t be certain. Even so, despite the fact that no words were exchanged on the matter, the two of them as a whole were changed.
Ava smiled warmly. Link, trying to clear his head, focused respectfully upon the Zorita as she took Midna’s hand and said, “Well, my friends. Tis to the forest with you, I suppose. I pray the goddesses grant much mercy and wisdom on your travels. May you find what you seek and save us all as did the ancient Hero....
“One, last thing. When you return to Hyrule, remember my sister, Miya. She may aid you on your quest, should you have need of it, if you mention our meeting.”
Link nodded, and Midna gently slipped her hand from Ava’s. “We will.”
Then they turned and descended, leaving the rolling hills of the Zorita’s Domain behind them. As they crossed the land bridge and approached the outskirts of the beach, Link felt an urge to look back. As if sensing this, Midna took his hand and said quietly, “Don’t. It may be the last glimpse of beauty we see for a while. It would only disappoint you....”
Link looked up. He studied her beauty for a moment, knowing that it could never disappoint him. Then, he looked away, continuing beside her in solemn silence.