Link fell back on the steps of the pedestal, hard. He gave out a small cry of pain as he slowly stood up and rubbed the point on his back that he fell on. His eyesight grew watery as he started to shake and tremble, looking back at the master sword that still stood in its mount peacefully. He wasn't crying due to the pain in his back, where a bruise would no doubt form, but because of his shock and confusion.

"Wh-what was that? Fi, Fi did you see what happened? That's the most painful th-thing I've ever f-felt!" Link stammered, taking a cautious step away from the blade.

It made no sense to him. Link expected it to be easier, simply pull the sword and continue onwards. Was he really not chosen, like the way he doubted in the first place? But that wouldn't make sense either, because then why would Fi bring him here? Why did it hurt that much?

Before Fi could answer however, Link heard the sound of creaking wood from in front of him. He quickly wiped his eyes and focused on the strange and unexpected movement in front of him. He had totally forgotten about the large and ancient tree in front of the master sword. He was so taken aback by the legendary blade, he completely forgot about the great Deku Tree. He scrutinized it for the first time, appreciating the calming presence the being had to offer. The branches seemed to sway extra gently, and pink flower blossoms from the higher branches drifted from above to the ground, adding to the already breathtaking scenery.

The wooden face started to slowly come to life, seeming to be waking up from a long slumber. Link watched in amazement as the tree's mouth started to open, much resembling a yawn. His voice seemed to resonate throughout the whole forest as he spoke in a deep, yet at the same time benevolent, tone.

"What is that noise down there? Did I fall asleep once again?" the tree sleepily questioned, and despite the fact Link could not see his eyes, he felt that they now rested upon him.

"Well, well...it's you, Link."

In this statement Link could sense in his words excitement, sympathy, and worry.

"I have watched over Hyrule since time immemorial. Many have referred to me over the ages as the Deku Tree."

Link nodded respectfully, hesitant to talk. He had a great respect for the Deku Tree, as he knew of the role the ancient entity had played and served in Hyrule's long past.

The Deku Tree anticipated Link's reserved nature and silence, so he continued to speak, "The master sword is no doubt the reason you have traveled to these woods. It is hard to believe that it is time once again for you to take up that blade. You are so young my child, but that is just the way events have seemed to be chosen," he sighed, going quiet himself for a second, but resumed talking rather quickly.

"The sword stands here, where it has been safe under my watch. That is the weapon created by the ancient Goddess. The sword that seals the darkness- that only the chosen knight can wield against Calamity Ganon."

Link felt very conflicted at his words, fighting the strong urge to argue that he wasn't the chosen knight. The searing and shocking pain he felt moments prior added to his already great uncertainty. Or was that pain part of it? Did the agony stand as a test to any who dared to try and unearth the master sword? Link was uncertain, so he let the Deku Tree continue to speak uninterrupted.

"Believe it or not, you have wielded this sword before, in past lives. But I must warn you to take extreme caution. The sword stands as a test to anyone who would dare attempt to possess it."

Link closed his eyes, trying to see if he could somehow recollect any memories of apparent past lives, but to no avail. He was, however, put at ease at the last part of the Deku Tree's words of the sword standing as a test. Link felt a strange combination of assured and scared knowing that the searing pain he felt prior was to be expected. At least he felt a bit more prepared for what was to come.

"As you are now, I can not say whether you are worthy or not. If you sought to free the sword in any sort of weakened state, you would surely lose your life where you stand," the ancient tree cautioned, but then chuckled in a way Link could not quite decipher.

"If you hope to pull the sword from its resting place, you must use your true strength. Let us see whether or not you currently possess said power. Best of luck, young one."

Link smiled softly, "Thank you."

The Deku Tree grinned back, "You're welcome."

After the exchange, the tree focused back on the master sword, and so did Link. He knew what he had to do, and now knew what to expect.

Link walked back up to the sword, slowly and deep in thought. He didn't realize this test could cost him his life. But on the other hand, he was the chosen one. He was brought here for a reason. He had wielded the renowned blade in past lives. He felt he could do it. He was Link.

Link swallowed his doubt and anxiety, and took a deep breath. For the second time he took a firm grasp on the fabled sword. Link steadied his stance, and closed his eyes, trying his best to steady his breathing.

May fate be in your favor, master Link, Fi spoke softly in Link's head. Link smiled at her encouragement, and his grasp on the sword's handle tightened.

The whole forest seemed to go quiet in anticipation, and even the koroks had stopped talking and scurrying around. All eyes were focused on the young Hylian and the master sword.

Link tensed his body, gritted his teeth, and pulled. The pain immediately surged throughout his entire being, reaching every inch within him. He wanted to cry out, but tightened his grip on the blade even harder and felt motivated from the agonizing test and the great pain it brought. Every second felt like a minute, yet he persevered. Another second passed, and Link felt the sword raise out of the ground by a bit. Every passing moment, and he felt like he was going to pass out, but he could feel the sword loosen and rise from its pedestal.

With one sudden flash of light, the sound of the metal blade fully leaving the pedestal seemed to travel all throughout every direction. A metallic clang signifying the rise of a new hero. The exact moment he pulled the tip of the blade out of the mounting, Link felt the pain immediately leave him, as if he was never in excruciating pain at all. Instead, he felt much stronger and invigorated.

Link smiled proudly and watched the light that filtered through the Lost Woods' trees reflect off the sharp blade. Link raised the sword high, the tip facing the heavens above, then lowered it and leaned forward a bit to feel the cool metal against his forehead. He felt the connection with the voice in the master sword, Fi, strengthen. He swung and twirled it, getting a feel for the legendary sword. It fit in his hands perfectly, and wielding the sword felt so natural, almost as if he had used it many times before. Then in one swift movement he brought it right back to his side. Link wanted to further dwell on the stronger connection with the sword and its remarkable familiarity, but he didn't have time to ponder any of this however, for the Deku Tree's voice began to speak once again.

"Congratulations Link! I had great confidence you would triumph. Seeing you stand there with the master sword in your hands brings me great hope for our falling land. My heart cascades with it, aspirations for you and the princess, to battle the malice and evil that has befallen on Hyrule." The great tree smiled at Link, and Link grinned brightly back, momentarily pushing away the conflict and fear he felt inside him, trying his best to simply take triumph in his life altering accomplishment.

"You now carry the legendary sword that seals the darkness. Its blade gleams with a sacred luster that can oppose the Calamity. Only a hero chosen by the sword itself may wield it. When used against Calamity Ganon or those tainted by his malice, it will become suffused with holy light. At such times, the true power of the sword will manifest...but be warned. Do not rely too much on its power. If you wield it without need, its power will be exhausted and it will no longer be of use to you. Should this happen, you must wait for the sword to recover. It would be rash to rely on this sword alone to defeat Ganon... I suggest you prepare yourself as much as possible with however much time you are given. Continue to train and ready yourself for whatever you are destined to take on. Take heed Link, and please be careful at all times. Stay strong, and help others you shall meet to stay strong as well."

Link stood straight and nodded, "I will do my absolute best. Thank you so much for your help and guidance."

"It is my honor. Oh, and before I forget, there is a scabbard to accompany that special sword. I have kept it safe and have had it hidden in a chest, awaiting the next hero. I have entrusted it to Chio, one of the children of the forest. Be sure to seek him out to claim what is rightfully yours. Farewell, Link."

With that final exchange, the great Deku Tree went still once again, presumably back to sleep. Link gave the Deku Tree a grateful look, fully aware the being was most likely already fast asleep once again. He gave one last bow out of respect, then slowly walked off the pedestal, gripping the master sword tightly in his right hand. Link suddenly felt that without the sword's scabbard, it was at high risk of being stolen 'out in the open', despite the fact he was completely alone in the woods; besides the koroks of course.

Many tiny koroks surrounded him immediately, all offering Link their congratulations, all at the same time. Link was cheered up by their childlike ways, and even found himself carefully keeping the master sword out of the reach of their little hands.

One particular korok with a unique yellow leaf on his face tugged on the pant leg of Link's grey trousers, "Excuse me, Mr. Hero! Yes, down here! The great Deku Tree mentioned you to me, I'm Chio! I can show you to the cover of your sword, if you would like!" he said excitedly.

"Oh that would be a great help, thanks! And you can call me Link instead of Mr. Hero, if you'd like."

I'm not a hero, not yet, and maybe not ever. I'm not even close, I don't deserve to be called that, Link thought to himself. He was taken back by his own sudden negativity, but forced it down deeper so he could maintain a cheery disposition in front of the energetic children of the forest.

Chio jumped around in his excitement, ecstatic to be able to aid Link in any way at all. He led Link to a little section inside the Deku Tree, which Link was hesitant to walk into at first. In the far back of the room was a long wooden chest adorned with strings of leaves placed carefully along the edges of the chest. Link got down on his knees and Chio stood right beside him, eager for him to open the chest. Link lifted the lid and gasped, taken aback at the quality of the scabbard. He didn't know what to originally expect, but he certainly wasn't expecting such a high quality covering.

As he cautiously took it out of the chest, the light coming in the room shined off of the gold designs that decorated the main blue material. The color scheme was simple, consisting of only two colors, but the gold and blue went together so well. Golden designs danced across the blue metal like cover, with a triforce as the main decoration.

Link slid the master sword in its scabbard, and felt relieved at concealing his valuable possession. "That's amazing, thank you so much Chio!"

The korok grinned, "But of course Mr. Link! It's an honor to help you in any way! Good luck, and hopefully I'll see you again!"

Link walked back to the edge of Korok Forest, where the Lost Woods and the Korok Forest met. He gave a final wave to all the friendly koroks, then turned toward the intimidating and swirling fog. Lucky for him, one of the koroks told him of a specific tree, that if he stood in its mouth, it would safely transport him to the outside of the Lost Woods. Link searched for the tree, which was marked clear by a sign, and slowly stepped in the trunk, deciding to ignore the logic and just leave the scary woods as soon as possible.

When Link walked out of the tree trunk, he found himself right back in the beginning of the Lost Woods, where he first started. He was amazed and curious as to how that magic worked, but was too tired to really think about it. He was just grateful for the shortcut.

As soon as Link fully left the Lost Woods, he was greeted by the bright morning sun. He squinted his eyes, still adjusting to all of the sunlight. Link was so exhausted, as he had gone without sleep for the majority of the night, and so much had taken place within the last few hours. He observed his surroundings, feeling at ease in a more familiar and radiant Hyrule. Link found a nearby tree, the first normal tree he had seen in hours, and rested against it, trying to sort through the many thoughts that ran through his tired head. Part of him wanted to just cry, but he felt too tired to even do that. He kept the master sword in his arms, never loosening his grip in fear something might happen to it the moment he put it down.

"You did very well, master Link. I congratulate you on your amazing accomplishment, although your success did not surprise me. But I sense you are very tired, after all you have been through. I recommend you get some needed and deserved rest, and start your journey back home," Fi spoke softly in Link's head, her voice and emotions now much clearer. Link noticed the stronger connection, and was mesmerized by the way the master sword's blade glowed as Fi spoke.

Link had so much going through his head, and combined with his exhaustion, he couldn't think clearly. He felt distracted and unable to focus.

"Thank you Fi, I think you are right. There is so much to think about, but I simply can't. Not just yet. I need to sleep, and go back ho-OH MY HYLIA! Impa and Purah! They have been up for hours, no doubt worried sick! Oh I'm in so much trouble! What are they going to even say?! This is the craziest day I've ever had, oh man I totally forgot about them," Link jumped up and hastily strapped the master sword in its cover to his back. Fi started to chuckle as Link muttered under his breath, now filled with fear of his upcoming reprimand, which gave him new energy.

He ran the majority of the way home, only stopping occasionally to catch his breath. Link knew his sisters, and he knew neither of them, Impa especially, would be pleased with his sudden and unexplained disappearance.

When he reached the outskirts of Kakariko Village, it was already around ten in the morning. Link checked the strap on his back to make sure he hadn't dropped the master sword, and found himself lingering outside the village, reluctant to go in. He knew the longer he stalled, the more Impa and Purah would worry, but he was still hesitant to even see them. Link didn't know how he would tell them, or how they would react. He felt so changed, and was scared they would perceive him as a totally different person, not the Hylian they knew previously. He was worried about how they might see him, as one who had to step up and help protect their land, as one who was suddenly thrust in the position of being a hero. Link didn't want them to think of him as a whole new person, someone all important and special. He didn't want their relationship with him to change, and he feared that with his new destiny, it might.

"Link, I sense you are scared to face your family. As I would urge you to find them quickly to ease their worry, I do understand why you would fret. Just remember, they love you, and that won't change. They might surprise you, and not see you much differently at all. You are the same person, just with a special destiny. The same Link, just with greater responsibilities prior to the last time you saw them. And I am quite sure they will see this, and try to help you to the best of their ability. Try your best to not overthink things, master," Fi comforted.

Link smiled, "Wow, thank you. I really needed to hear that. You are right, that all is true. How did you know what I was worried about?"

"Why else would you be hesitant to enter Kakariko Village? People usually don't stare at the entrances of villages for five minutes without a good reason."

Link laughed and walked into Kakariko with the plan of going straight to his house as soon as possible. As he made his way through the small morning crowd, he felt many people's eyes fall on him. Link gulped, wondering if news had already spread of his disappearance, and that wasn't a good sign of how his 'sisters' reacted to his unexpected departure.

Link made it to his house, and stood outside the door for a few extra seconds, taking a deep breath before meekly opening the doors. He heard a person in the kitchen going frantically through one of the cabinets, and he recognized the footsteps as Purah's. He walked further in the house, and when the noise of his own footsteps made it in the kitchen, Purah immediately looked up, and her eyes went wide at the sight of him. She stopped going through the drawers, gasped, and put her hand over her mouth. Purah ran up to Link and wrapped her arms around him, softly crying while she hugged him tight.

"Hey hey, it's ok! I'm alright, see? I'm so sorry for scaring you!"

"Yeah, you better be! Oh Nayru, I'm just so glad you're ok and found. I was worried sick and wasn't sure you would return from wherever you went off to. I thought maybe you were kidnapped by the Yiga, or ran off for some reason, but no, you are back. I'm so grateful for your return Linky," Purah spoke softly, never loosening her grip on Link, who felt so bad he didn't bother mentioning the fact he felt like he was suffocating.

After Purah had calmed down, she let go of Link and wiped her eyes, then smiled at him, "You better have a good story. I would be mad at you right now for disappearing for Hylia knows why, but I'm just so relieved your back."

Link softly smiled back, "I'm really sorry, and I do have a good reason, but before I go into that, where is Impa?"

"Oh good gracious, I almost forgot about her! She's out looking for you around Kakariko! When she discovered that you weren't in the house, she looked around the village, thinking maybe you went for your run without her for some reason, but when she couldn't find you, she told me to stay here in case you came back, while she asked around, and told me she would search farther then just inside the village. I should warn you, you might be in a bit of trouble," Purah giggled.

Link rubbed the back of his head, "Yeah, I feel really bad. Whatever scolding I'm in for, I think I rightfully deserve it."

"So, why did you leave? What happened? Please fill me in Linky!"

Link went quiet and cast his eyes to the floor. He knew this question was coming, but now was facing it. After moments of silence and mentally debating with himself of how to tell her, he came to a decision.

"Alright, I need you to brace yourself. I have a much longer explanation to give you, but I think maybe I should just show you something first," Link spoke slowly, his heart beating fast. He reached behind his back and untightened the leather strap that kept the master sword out of sight. Link slipped it off and grabbed the sword that rested in its scabbard, while Purah watched in confusion. He took the cover into his hands, slid the master sword out a few inches, and Purah's mouth dropped wide open.

Now this Link expected, but what he didn't expect, was for her to faint on the spot.

"Oops..... maybe I should have eased into that reveal a bit smoother."

"You really think so?"

Link rolled his eyes at the sword and slid it back into the scabbard. He got up, and did his best to carefully move Purah on the nearby couch in a more comfortable position.

"Great, just great. First I ran away into the night unexplained. Then I get the legendary master sword. Next I came home to people worried sick, and now I made Purah pass out because I can't socially interact correctly. Impa is going to kill me," Link muttered out loud to himself.

"After she gives you a hug, she might just do so."

Link spun around at Impa's voice, and stared at her as she gave him a smug look, leaning against the wall.

"I had a hunch as to what was going on, but decided I'd stay on the safe side searching until your return."

Link looked more shocked than she did, "Wait, so you're not surprised?!"

Impa laughed, "Not really. I knew if it was going to be anyone, I had a strong feeling it was going to be you. Now here, let me take care of Purah. You look exhausted. Go wash up, then get some sleep, you clearly need it."

Link stood still, totally surprised himself. He expected Impa to be shocked and concerned, but there she was, seeing the whole thing coming. Impa walked over to him, gave him a quick hug, and urged him to get some rest.

"But Impa-"

"We can talk later, when you have a clearer mind. I'm really proud of you, now please, get some sleep."

"But how did you even guess that I would get the master sword? How did you know?!"

"I knew you. I knew your skill, your talent, your determination, and your unique ability. You are a very special individual, especially for one of your age. The timing all lines up. Look at your own name for crying out loud. How could I be surprised?"

"Wow. I suppose since I didn't suspect it, I just thought everyone would be taken by surprise too. But you saw it coming all along."

"The signs were pretty obvious, to me at least."

"Why was Purah so shocked then?"

Impa grinned, "Because she's Purah. Alright, now go get some sleep, or I'll put you to sleep myself."

Link's eyes widened, but when realizing she was teasing, chuckled and walked up the stairs. He cleaned himself up, changed into new clothes, and propped his new sword against his bedpost. Before he got into bed, his eyes glanced over to the royal guard's cap and the golden triforce necklace laid out on his dresser. Link smiled, and wondered what his parents would say if they lived to see his newest achievement. Something in him told him they would be proud, and Link's smile grew. He gave his sword one final check, then drifted off in a well earned rest.

_-+-_

When Link woke up, he immediately looked over to the master sword, making sure it was exactly where he left it. When he saw it was untouched, Link sighed in relief and pulled the covers back over his shoulder, closing his eyes.

But then opened them back up again, because he had no idea of the time, and how long he had slept. Link did feel much more energized and refreshed, so he decided to get up and look out his bedroom window. The sun had already begun to set, and the daily crowd of Kakariko had quieted down with the approaching evening. Link blinked in disbelief, surprised he had slept through the whole day. But grateful, because it was the rest he knew he needed. With one last peek at the master sword, which still lay where he left it, Link groggily walked out of his room and slowly made his way downstairs.

He walked into the kitchen where he could hear Impa and Purah's voices conversing. When he made his entrance, the two girls stopped talking and looked over to him.

"Hey hey sleepyhead, you woke up just in time for dinner," Impa said cheerfully, motioning to the meat sizzling on a pan, and the lettuce she was previously cutting.

Link smiled, "Nice, it smells great. Thanks for letting me sleep through the entire day by the way."

"Of course! You looked extremely worn, so I figured I'd let you sleep as long as you could."

He nodded, and looked over to Purah, who was watching him while slowly sipping her mug of tea.

Link laughed nervously, "Hey, uh, I'm sorry about-"

"Nuh-uh, you have nothing to apologize for. I was just shocked. Very, very shocked. It just wasn't what I expected, so I guess I'm sorry for just fainting like that. Kinda embarrassing, in hindsight," Purah muttered the last part in her mug.

Link chuckled, "You're fine, I didn't see it coming either. So what were you two talking about before I walked in?"

Impa looked up from the onions she was cutting, "Just the little topic of you coming home one morning with the sword made by Hylia herself to battle the evil that has purged our land since anyone can remember. Why do you ask?"

Link rolled his eyes, "Oh, just wondering is all. But really, what do you both seriously think about it?"

"Well I wasn't surprised, but it is still a nerve wracking fact, in all honesty. The legends and prophecies seemed to be falling in place once again. And you, my friend, have a very large part to play in it. As one who works in Hyrule Castle, I know many people there talk about the one chosen by the sword who seals the darkness. They all are waiting to see who it will be, and how the chosen one will carry themselves. I'm afraid you have quite a legend to live up to."

Link sat down at the table and buried his head in his hands, "So what do I even do?"

"I'd advise you to lay low for a bit. You've been training as long as you can remember to be a knight, now you continue, but using this new weapon. You're already one of the greatest swordsmen in Hyrule no doubt, but now you must ready yourself for the great threats you will be facing. A lot of people will look up to you and count on you, and damn, the Calamity itself, you'll have to face the Calamity itself. I think you have time though. We still have other parts to assemble. Word of the four divine beasts is spreading like wildfire, and the Hylians seem to want to follow the path of our ancestors ten thousand years ago, and use the great Sheikah mechanics to our advantage. But they have yet to fully restore them, and even find pilots for them. And we mustn't forget our princess, who has the power of the Goddess running through her blood. The poor girl has yet to unlock it though, despite all of her effort. But what I'm saying is, you have time. No one is really ready yet, and I feel that Calamity Ganon won't arrive for a bit longer. So utilize the time you have wisely, and make the most of your preparation."

Link looked up, processing everything Impa told him, "You're right. Destiny has been decided, I just have to really push myself and make the most of the time I have. Any thoughts, Purah?"

"Personally, I think utilizing the Sheikah technology to fight Ganon is a great idea!"

Impa cast her a hard stare.

"Oh, hehe and I think everything Impa said is right. I'm sure with the right training you'll do the right stuff Linky!"

Impa rolled her eyes, "How inspiring of you. Dinner is ready. And Link, would you mind telling us how you came across the master sword in the first place?"

Over the course of dinner, Link relayed everything that had happened from the moment he woke up the previous night, to the second he walked back into the home. Link spared no details, going over the Lost Woods, the wise words of the Deku Tree, and Fi, the voice that resided in the sword. Impa and Purah showed great interest throughout the entire story, only interrupting with occasional questions. When Link finished his recounting, all three companions went quiet, contemplating what it all meant, and what it determined for the future.

Impa broke the silence, "You know, it's just so crazy. We all talk about the upcoming foretold Calamity, and we have been preparing for years, but when the pieces are coming together.....and things just seem different when they are staring right at you. With everything at stake, it's just all so surreal."

Link nodded, "I know that feeling all too well."

"I'm sure you do, I bet you have firsthand experience with it," Impa chuckled.

"Things really just got real for real then. It was bound to happen, but still. I can't imagine the pressure, I just hope I can help you in any way I can, Linky. Please, if there is anything I can do, lemme know!"

"Thanks Purah, I appreciate that."

Purah yawned, "Don't mention it. Well it's been an eventful day, so I'm going to turn in for the night. Good night you two."

Impa chimed in, "Yeah, I think I'm going to sleep as well, it's getting late."

Link laughed, "I practically just woke up!"

Impa smirked, "With the new, special, training I have planned for you tomorrow, I think you could use the extra rest."

Link slumped back into his chair as the two sisters went upstairs for the night.

"Oh no." 

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See, the wait wasn't that bad! You guys only had to wait 25 chapters for me to write Link getting the master sword, the only actual canon event that has taken place in this fan-fic so far!

Kidding aside, thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this chapter, a vote would mean the world, and all comments of jokes and constructive criticism are always encouraged. To all who have supported me throughout this journey thus far, thank you so much! We have five chapters left, give or take, so the end of this story is in sight. I've put 85.4k words into this book, and it's been a 10 month project so far, and still going strong. I find it hard to believe it's been that much work, and that I've kept up this book that long. Much of this I owe to you all, who have encouraged and supported me. So a final thank you! Stay safe!  -Hylian at Heart