After I finally convinced Zelda to return to her room, I laid myself back down on my bed, but I didn't sleep. I was too afraid that my nightmares would return. Just as light began to fill the sky, I left the academy for my morning run. Although trouble hadn't bothered the land above or below for weeks, I still was determined to keep myself in shape, even if my mind was a wreck.

With every drop of foot against earth, I was able to block out my thoughts and just enjoy the morning in its simplicity. One by one, the citizens of Skyloft emerged from their homes, and I greeted them with a wave and a smile as I sped past. I had just passed Pipit's house when I saw them. Having just avoided a small child, my eyes followed her tiny form.

Just peaking the hill appeared a horde of beasts. There skin was green and covered with moles, and in the morning light, their teeth gleamed. All at once, I was thrown back into my nightmare, and I found myself offered a choice: go back and rescue the girl, or keep running.

I tried to batten down the sails of terror that threatened to carry me away, but I failed miserably. With tears mixing with my sweat, I fixed my eyes forward and urged my legs to pump faster. I didn't stop until I reached the Academy, and when I did, I pressed my back against the wall and tried to catch my breath.

"Ah, Link, there you are," a voice interrupted, and I jumped. Turning, I found myself staring at Gaepora.

"I'm sorry for startling you," he apologized, and I waved his comment away.

"It was nothing," I assured him, "I'm just a little on edge this morning. I didn't sleep well."

"So my daughter tells me," he commented and rested a hand on my shoulder, "Link, you don't always have to be strong. Real strength is admitting you're broken--"

"I'm not broken," I interrupted and stepped away from him, "I'm fine."

For a few moments, Gaepora watched me, studying me. "I was wondering if you would be willing to do my a favor," he said finally.

"What do you need?"

"Well, as you've probably noticed, there  have been several new recruits running around the Academy lately. I was wondering if you and Pipit would be willing to put on a weapons demonstration." Gaepora paused. "The young ones admire you, Link. Seeing the Hero of Time in action would be a dream come true."

Leaning against the wall, I mulled over his request. There was the possibility that a nightmare could be triggered, but then again, perhaps hanging around a few admirers would do me good. "I can't speak for Pipit, but I'll do it," I replied, and Gaepora smiled.

"Excellent," he chuckled and thumped me on the back. He had been about to walk away when he turned back to me. "Link, if you ever need someone to talk to--I'm here. I may not have seen all the horrors you have, but I'm willing to, if you just let me in."

"That won't be necessary," I said. Raising an eyebrow at me, he walked away.

As soon as he was out of sight, I crumpled to the ground and wept.