Summary: At Zelda's urging, Link leaves Mipha's world, for now, cutting short their time together, and returns to being a Hylian. Mipha can't resist teasing him about his Hylian shortcomings. Mila and Midon discuss their plans after graduation. Lapha's prowess with technology is recognized.

Several hours had passed, and the equipment signaled Link's transformation back to a Hylian was complete by sounding an alert. Then the chamber lid slowly opened. The Sheikah scientist in charge examined him. All was well, and he was perfectly healthy. Mipha had been asked to wait outside the chamber area during the process, but she was messaged to return now.

"He's fine," said the scientist to Mipha as she approached the chamber where Link lay, still unconscious. "He just needs a little time to wake up. Then he may be disoriented, but that should soon pass."

Mipha peered into the chamber, and the first thing she noticed was that he was naked.

"Oh!" said Mipha. "I should have expected that. And we forgot to bring any clothing. Do you have any garments we can borrow?"

"Yes, of course," said the scientist. "Let me go get you something. Just keep an eye on him, and if he wakes up while I'm gone, tell him he needs to take things slowly. Don't try to be a hero."

Mipha laughed. Don't try to be a hero, indeed.

The scientist went off to hunt down some clothing, and Mipha looked down at Link as he rested there.

He was back to his old self, the handsome young Hylian with the cute blonde hair and boyish good looks. He looked so calm and peaceful now, relaxed, not a worry in the world.

And he still looked very much like he did as a young teenager. If you saw him walking around at that time, you would think he was just some ordinary kid, maybe a bit on the quiet side. You wouldn't pay any particular attention to him. He didn't brag or strut or swagger or act conceited. He usually kept to himself and minded his own business. He could be moody sometimes, but he was basically good-natured, willing to listen to anyone who needed help. He was the kind of kid a stranger might ask to help gather wood, and he wouldn't mind and would happily do it for them like he had nothing more important to do.

But if evil threatened and he drew his sword, then you would see a side of him you wouldn't believe existed. There would be a fearless determination in those bright blue eyes of his. And that shy, modest, quiet kid who might have helped you with your chores suddenly became the most formidable adversary in all of Hyrule and willing to risk his life to protect you. His combat skills were second to none, a fluid blur of precise movements, and a wonder to behold. As long as you weren't his opponent, that is.

Even today, he still had all those skills. But the fame he had earned never went to his head, though he sometimes reflected on how quickly it passed. He was a remarkable person, able to balance the two extremes of his nature and not let the ruthless side of him affect his kind and caring side.

She reached out and gently stroked his head of hair, brushing some of it off his face. That was one thing she had missed.

After a few more minutes, Link blinked his eyes opened, and stared straight ahead, waiting for them to focus. Then he turned his head and saw Mipha looking down at him. He smiled and tried to speak, but the sounds out of his mouth made no sense. He moistened his mouth, swallowed, and tried again. This time it worked.

"Hello? Have we met?" said Link.

"Do you feel presentable to meet a princess?" said Mipha.

Link looked down at himself and realized he was naked.

"Fortunately, we have met," Mipha continued. "But, oh dear, another memory loss? I've heard that a small shock to the system, such as a smack, can alleviate selective amnesia like this. Shall we try that remedy?"

"No, even as we speak, my memory is returning," laughed Link. "It must be a delayed transformation effect. Mipha, right?"

"Very funny," said Mipha. "Your sense of humor has obviously survived though not improved. How are you feeling? You look great."

"I feel strange, disoriented, but my head is starting to clear," said Link. "Last time they told me to do everything slowly at first. Do you know if I can get some clothing? I realized I forgot to bring some as I drifted off. I think I feel well enough to sit up now."

"The scientist in charge is getting you something to wear," said Mipha. "Another disadvantage of being a Hylian, by the way."

"Alright, fine," laughed Link. "You know, my memory feels very strange right now. My mind has memories of actions I performed as a Zora, which make no sense for my current body, and my brain can't put the two together. But I guess that will clear up in time."

"Ah, you're awake, Link," said the scientist as he returned, carrying a set of Sheikah clothing. "Are you feeling alright? You can keep the clothes. They're just a simple Sheikah outfit."

"Thank you," said Link. "Yes, I'm alright, just a bit disoriented."

"That's perfectly normal and should wear off soon," said the scientist. "You need to take things slowly until you get acclimated to your body again. As soon as you feel well enough, you're free to go. Do you need someone to help escort you to the dock?"

"No, thank you, I can manage him," said Mipha. "And please be sure not to delete his Zora blueprint. He'll need it again."

"Don't worry," laughed the scientist. "Everything is backed up. It will be here when you need it. Just remember it's good for a year. Well, it's been my pleasure to help. Good luck and goodbye."

"Thank you and goodbye," said Link.

Mipha helped Link get up from the chamber and held onto him as she helped him get dressed. He was still unsteady on his feet.

"I don't think I've ever helped you get dressed before," said Mipha.

"No, just undressed. Many times, and a lot quicker," said Link.

Mipha pinched him on the shoulder.

"Ouch!" said Link. "Be careful with those nails!"

"You're quite the clown, aren't you, sweetheart? Be nice, and I might even heal that," said Mipha. "And I didn't use my nails, it's just a small bruise."

Link finished dressing, and they left the shrine, preparing to walk back to the dock to catch the next boat back to Lanayru Bay. But as soon as they came outside, Link turned to speak with her.

"So? Do you still like me like this?" said Link.

She smiled at him. Then he took her in his arms and kissed her. They kissed over and over while standing just outside the shrine. When they stopped, Mipha spoke.

"What about you? Are your feelings for me less now that you're a Hylian again?" said Mipha. "You were quite emotional as a Zora. I'm just wondering if we're going to cycle up and down with each transformation."

"I think my feelings are as before, just different. It's hard to explain. I still have a strong urge to kiss you," said Link.

"So sweet," said Mipha. "Let me see your shoulder."

Mipha waved her glowing hand over the small bruise.

"There, all better."

They were luckily in time to catch the last fast ferry of the day. It would get them home in time for dinner. The ship scheduled to depart after theirs traveled slowly overnight. They boarded and sat down together, holding hands.

"You know, since this transformation back and forth takes only a few hours if done within a year, I'm going to propose to Zelda I just need to renew my Hylian body blueprint each year. I don't necessarily have to stay Hylian the whole year unless she needs me to," said Link.

"Fine with me," said Mipha. "You should speak up for yourself. I can't believe twenty odd years later, Zelda is still affecting our relationship. What used to upset me back in the day was that I wanted so much to spend time with you while she resented having you around. But you still had to go with her everywhere. Duty before love again."

"Yes, I'll try to make my case," said Link. "But she really isn't heartless, you know. I think she'll understand."

The ship left port and headed slowly through the new channel that led directly to the Akkala Sea. Once clear of the channel, it picked up speed, continuing East toward Lomei Labyrinth Island and passing South of it.

"How did you do on that labyrinth, by the way?" said Mipha as she pointed to it.

"I cheated," said Link. "I climbed to the top and looked for the most promising place to paraglide down to. It saved traveling through a lot of the passageways."

The ship turned South past North Akkala Beach and then past the Rist Peninsula as they sat quietly watching its progress.

"I spoke to Father while I was waiting for you at the shrine," said Mipha. "He was happy that your decision was not permanent. You know he always liked you, even before we married. He would usually take time to chat with you when you came to call on me. You would tell him of your latest travels, and then you and I would leave to be alone together. I'm forever grateful he's back with us."

"So am I, though it cost me a lecture from Her Majesty," said Link. "Sadly, I have no memories of those conversations with him. But he has always treated me like a son. I love him, too."

"We should be home in time for a family dinner," said Mipha as she stared at the coastline rushing by.

"Mila and Midon graduate this year," said Link. "It would be good to hear what they plan to do. I assume they can both work? There are no royal family restrictions?"

"No, they can work," said Mipha. "In fact, it would be normal for them to do that for now. If I were Queen, then Mila would have to eventually become my shadow and start learning everything for when the day comes that she becomes Queen. And Midon would have to be involved in the Zora government as well. But let's hope that day's a long way off."

Mipha rested her head on Link's shoulder, and he put his arm around her.

"You tired?" said Link.

"A little," said Mipha. "It's been a long day, with some emotional ups and downs."

"It has. Just rest on my shoulder," said Link. "Another couple of hours or so, and we should dock. I'll wake you, sweetheart."

She looked up at him and smiled. Then she put her head back on his shoulder and a moment later fell asleep.

Link cradled her head with his arm and looked down at her. She was breathing slowly and looked so delicate, so fragile. But she wasn't weak at all. She was an accomplished Champion. In fact, she was a lot like him in that way. She showed everyone the kind and gentle side of herself. But she was definitely no slouch with her trident if it came to combat. He was so lucky to find a love like hers. She had given him her heart back then without even knowing for sure how he felt. He quietly said his daily prayer to Goddess of Time Hylia for making it all possible.

Then Link stared across the water, watching the coastline rush by. They had already passed the Tingel family of islands and were just now cruising by Spool Bight. He knew there was a proposal to build an above-ground tunnel from East Reservoir Lake to Spool Bight and create a port of call there. That would be a nice shortcut. He closed his eyes. The boat ride was smooth, and the hum of the propulsion system was relaxing. He fell asleep.

When he awoke, Mipha was still asleep in his arms. He looked around, and the ship was going west now, passing between Tarm Point and Wintre Island. They were almost back. It continued into Lanayru Bay, and then the boat started slowing as it approached the port. There was an announcement from one of the crew members concerning instructions for disembarking, and Mipha woke up and looked around.

"We're almost home," said Link. "I fell asleep myself for a while."

She leaned over, and they kissed.

"We'll have to take the land route home," said Mipha. "You don't have my armor, and it's too far to pull you."

The boat docked, and everyone disembarked. The Zora guards on duty at the port welcomed them back.

"Lady Mipha and Master Link, welcome home," said the guard. "Can we be of any assistance?"

"Can you please see if there is a raft available to cross the Rutala River?" said Mipha.

"Of course, Lady Mipha, we will have a raft waiting there for you and someone to pilot it as well."

The guard used his Tab to send a message.

They crossed the Samasa Plain, took the raft across the river, and then it was a brief climb to pick up the road by Ruto Mountain. They followed the curving path to the Great Zora Bridge and on into the Domain.

"Let's stop to see Father first," said Mipha. "It's on the way home."

King Dorephan was free when they arrived, and the guards said they could go right up to the throne room.

"Ah, you've returned," said King Dorephan upon seeing them. "And Link, you look fine. I understand your change back is not necessarily as permanent as we thought at first. But you both must be eager to be with your family now. We can catch up on things tomorrow. Welcome home! Sidon is staying with your children now."

"Thank you, Father," said Link. "It's good to be home. And no, my change does not need to be permanent. It was done out of duty more than anything else. Someday I hope to return to the world I briefly shared with Mipha. It was beyond anything I could imagine."

"Then, there is hope for you yet," laughed King Dorephan. "But you are dear family no matter what you are. Now, be off!"

They made their way to Mikau Lake, and everyone was already home, getting ready for dinner.

"Mom & Dad!" shouted Lapha when she saw them. "And our old Dad is back!"

They exchanged hugs and kisses all around.

"You feel alright?" said Sidon to Link. "Father told me that your change is not once and done after all. He felt a lot better hearing that, probably as much for my sister's sake as anything. The children have been fine. We have some extra fish and haven't eaten yet. Oh, I guess we have to cook another one now, right?"

"Yes, afraid so," laughed Link. "I'll take care of it."

"Another Hylian disadvantage," said Mipha, who had been listening. "Sidon, I hope you are joining us?"

"Yes, I'd like that," said Sidon.

When the food was ready, they all sat down at the table.

"Mila and Midon, I know it's still some time away, but have you given more thought to your plans after graduation?" said Link.

"Yes, Dad, I've actually already made plans," said Mila. "I spoke to the head of the school, and they are offering me a position as an instructor after graduation. I'm going to teach Hyrule history. It's something I've always been interested in, particularly after helping with some of your journals. I am also going to be part of a team working on updating materials to take advantage of Tabs now. I'm really looking forward to it! I hope you don't mind. I did all that on my own."

"No, not at all," said Mipha. "You're growing up. And that does sound interesting. I'm sure you'll be excellent at it. What about you, Midon?"

"As for me," said Midon, "I applied for a position with the Hyrule Technology Department and am optimistic about it. My instructor gave me a good recommendation. If I get the position, I will be a trainee in Dr. Purah's department, working on developing and updating Tab runes. I can work remotely from the Domain, just need to attend a few meetings a year or so. As a trainee, I get to listen in on Dr. Purah's staff meetings by Tab. One of the scientists in her department I spoke with, an interview of sorts, said the meetings are fascinating. But Dr. Purah doesn't tolerate any incompetence, he said. If you work for her, you had better work hard! Anyway, if I do well, I might even be invited to join her staff after my trainee period ends. In class, I submitted my final project for grading, a rune for predicting underwater conditions. Still waiting to learn how I did."

"That's wonderful, Midon," said Link. "Working within Dr.Purah's department would be a fantastic opportunity. She is a brilliant scientist, as is Dr. Robbie. They understand the theory and how to put it into practice. Just don't let Dr. Purah do any experiments on you."

"You're so lucky if you get that position, Mido," said Lapha. "And I hope I won't have Mila as my teacher."

"And why not, Laff?" laughed Mila. "I'll be totally fair."

"That's the problem, Sis! You'll be too fair!" said Lapha. "I'll never get a good grade from you!"

"Well, don't worry, you probably won't have me anyway," said Mila.

"I think it would be fun to have Mila as our teacher," said Linky. "She can't be any worse than our last history teacher."

"Thank you, little brother," laughed Mila. "Not the greatest compliment, but I'll take it."

"Well, let's not worry about it now," said Mipha. "I'm sure Mila will be an excellent teacher."

"Sorry, Mom & Dad, I won't be winning any academic awards this term," said Linky.

"Don't feel bad, Son, just as long as you did your best," said Link. "I never won any academic awards either. Be a good person, and whatever you choose to do, do it with all your heart and as well as you can. You're still young, and you'll find that something someday. Live life like that, and your conscience will be clear."

"We finished our homework before you got home," said Lapha. "Linky and I are meeting some friends after dinner if that's okay."

"That's fine," said Link. "You know when you need to be home."

"I'm meeting Kendal and some friends for a swim at the Lake," said Mila.

"I'm going along with Mila," said Midon. "Larena and some of her friends will be there, too."

"Fine," said Mipha. "And you two know how to behave and when you need to be home as well. You haven't graduated yet."

"I'll be off to home as well," said Sidon. "See you both tomorrow."

Everyone left but Midon, who stayed behind for a moment.

"Mom & Dad," said Midon. "I want you to know, Laff is really sharp when it comes to technology. She picks it up very quickly. She and I used to talk about it, and she liked to read over the course materials from the North Hyrule scientist who teaches my class. After I submitted my project for grading, Laff looked at it and pointed out something I could have improved. I hope you don't mind, but I spoke with the instructor about Laff, and she spoke with Laff after class. I think she is going to offer to let Laff take her class next term, which would be well above her grade level. She'll probably contact you for permission. I just wanted to let you know. Laff doesn't like to talk about it until she's sure."

"Thanks, Midon," said Link. "You did the right thing. Have fun with your friends."

Midon left, and Link turned to Mipha.

"Lapha taking that course would be fine with me," said Link. "You agree?"

"Of course!" said Mipha. "I would love to see her live up to her potential if that's what she wants to do. And it seems she has a strong aptitude for it."

"Wow, graduation coming up already," said Link. "The years have passed by so quickly. It doesn't seem all that long ago I was cuddling Mila in my arms because Midon was throwing frogs at her. Now she's going to be teaching history, and Midon may be working in Dr. Purah's technology department. Are we getting old?"