Link stands in the courtyard, the early morning light casting long shadows across the stone. Leona is packing her belongings, her movements methodical but laden with unspoken sadness. The air between them is heavy, both aware of the weight of the separation that's about to unfold.

Leona glances up at Link, her eyes searching his face. "We should be leaving soon," she says softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Link forces a smile, though it feels foreign on his face. "Yes, it's best that we get going." He takes a step toward her, but the distance between them feels like a chasm. He pulls her into a gentle embrace, breathing in the familiar scent of her hair. "I'll miss you," he admits, his voice rough with emotion.

Leona holds him tightly, her own tears threatening to spill. "I'll miss you too. But remember, this is for the best. We both know it."

They separate reluctantly, their fingers brushing one last time before she turns to finish her packing. As the carriage waits, loaded with Leona's things, Link's heart feels as though it's been hollowed out. He watches her climb into the carriage, trying to commit every detail to memory. Her face, the way she looks at him, the slight tremble in her hands—all etched into his mind.

"I'll write to you every day," Leona promises, her voice breaking.

Link nods, unable to trust his own voice. "Stay safe, Leona."

The carriage starts to roll away, taking her further from him with every turn of the wheels. Link stands rooted to the spot, watching until the vehicle disappears from sight. The courtyard feels emptier now, the space between him and the world seemingly wider and colder.

Back at the castle, Link's days blur together. The emptiness of the castle without Leona's presence is palpable. His duties as Zelda's personal knight keep him occupied, but the constant reminder of her absence weighs heavily on him. He moves through the castle's grand halls and intricate corridors with a mechanical precision, his focus always slightly off, his thoughts frequently drifting.

Zelda notices the change in Link. During a strategy meeting in the war room, her eyes flicker with concern as she observes him. The once sharp and focused knight now seems distant, his reactions delayed. The kingdom's safety is ever on her mind, but she can't ignore the personal toll it's taking on Link.

"Link, we need to review the new patrol routes," Zelda says, her voice gentle but firm.

Link nods absently, his mind clearly elsewhere. He studies the map spread before them, but the lines and symbols seem to blend together.

Zelda's voice cuts through his haze. "You're not yourself today. Is something wrong?"

Link shakes his head, trying to mask his turmoil. "Just... trying to adjust. It's been a lot."

Zelda's gaze softens, though she maintains her professional demeanor. "I understand. It's a lot to handle, especially with the recent changes. But remember, the kingdom needs you. We all do."

He nods again, his expression guarded. "I know. I'm here."

Zelda's concern lingers, but she moves on, her focus shifting back to the map and the ongoing discussions. Despite her efforts to be supportive, there's an underlying tension. She has her own worries about the stability of the kingdom, and she sees Link's struggle as a reflection of the broader uncertainties facing them.

The next day, the city is shaken by a sudden attack. The Yiga Clan strikes swiftly, their masked figures blending with the chaos of the morning market. The once peaceful streets are now filled with smoke and the clamor of battle.

Link finds himself at the center of the conflict, his sword flashing as he fights off the attackers. Each swing of his blade is fueled by the desperate need to protect, but his mind is elsewhere, constantly darting to the worry of Leona's safety.

The battle rages on, and the castle guards quickly mobilize, pushing back the invaders. Link's exhaustion is palpable as he continues to fight, his movements growing slower with each passing minute. The sight of the Yiga's retreating forms brings a fleeting sense of relief.

After the battle, Link's heart is heavy as he surveys the damage. The market is in ruins, and several people lie injured. He searches through the aftermath, his concern for Leona bubbling to the surface.

Zelda approaches him, her face etched with worry. "You fought bravely today," she says, her voice carrying a note of approval mixed with concern. "But this attack was a stark reminder of how dangerous things have become. We have to be more vigilant."

Link's eyes meet hers, and he nods, his weariness evident. "I'm aware. It's just... hard."

Zelda places a comforting hand on his shoulder. "I know. But we're in this together. We have to keep moving forward, for the sake of the kingdom and for the people who rely on us."

Later, in a private meeting, Zelda and Link discuss the aftermath of the attack. The room is quiet, the weight of the previous day's events hanging heavily in the air.

"I know it's been difficult," Zelda begins, her tone soft but serious. "But this attack reinforces the need for vigilance. Leona's move was necessary. It's not just for her safety, but for the safety of everyone connected to us."

Link's face reflects his inner conflict. "I understand that. But it's hard. Every day without her feels like a struggle."

Zelda's eyes hold a trace of sympathy. "It's a challenge, I know. But we have to focus on the bigger picture. Leona's safety was paramount, and you've done what's needed for the greater good."

Link sighs, his gaze dropping. "I suppose so."

Zelda steps closer, her voice carrying a note of encouragement. "You're doing well, Link. This is a hard time, but you're making a difference. Just remember, we're all here to support you."