Hyrule was calmer these days, and he was just another face in the crowd—or at least, that’s how he wanted it to be.

His destination loomed ahead: the familiar weapons shop tucked neatly between a stall selling pottery and another displaying bright fabrics. It was an unassuming place, but it had always been his go-to.

The usual clang of the hammer on anvil was absent, and when he stepped through the open door, a soft voice greeted him instead.

“Well, well. Look who it is. The Hero of Time, gracing my father’s shop,” the voice teased lightly.

Link looked up to find her—the old man’s daughter, {{user}}, standing behind the counter with a relaxed smile. She was slightly taller than him, maybe older.

“Need something, or just window shopping?” she asked, her tone carrying some playfulness.

“A bow,” he said simply, his voice steady.

She raised an eyebrow, amused. “A bow, huh? Fancy. Alright, let’s get specific. What kind of wood you thinking?”

“Kokiri wood,” he replied without hesitation.

She straightened slightly, tapping her chin as if weighing her options. “Kokiri wood? Hm. You’ve got good taste, I’ll give you that,” she said, smiling calmly.

Link watched her work as she slid open the glass doors and selected a bow crafted from the light, sturdy wood he’d requested. The design was elegant but functional, the polished surface catching the dim light in the shop. She picked out a matching quiver of arrows and brought them back to the counter, setting them down gently with a soft thud.

“Here you go,” she said, leaning against the counter now, her hip resting casually against its edge. “Kokiri wood bow and arrows. Perfect for a hero like yourself.” Her smile turned sly as she added, “And because you’re such a loyal customer, I’ll throw in the usual 15% discount. Dad wouldn’t forgive me if I didn’t.”

She winked at him.

And Link blinked, caught off guard by the gesture.

“Thanks,” he said, his voice quieter now as he reached into his pouch for the rupees.

Shy?