Val followed the beaten path through Faron Woods, her mind wandering.

The second she heard the twig snap, however, she materialized a blade in her hand, turning to face the sound with lightning fast reflexes. Her sword was stopped by a raised hand, the owner of whom she immediately recognized.

"Oh, it's you," Val said, relaxing. She let her blade dematerialize. "I was expecting...well, someone else."

"It must be an impressive foe, if it has you on edge, my dear," Majora said.

Val cocked her head to one side, "What do you mean?"

"Oh my. I would have never thought it possible for you to forget your own skill." Majora took a step back. "I have felt your steel many times, Valentina, and I have considered myself most honoured that I was considered such a worthy foe."

Val's brow furrowed, "We fought in the past?"

"Indeed, and they were most awe-inspiring to witness, I'm sure. The calamities we wrought together—"

"Majora," Val said sharply, "Why were we fighting?"

"For the sheer marvel of it, at least on my part."

"If I was really so powerful," Val pressed, "What happened? Why am I not as strong now?"

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"Don't worry, my dear. As your memories return to you more and more, so will your power."

"I'd like to know something."

"Anything, my dearest."

"The skyling, Link, told me that he met you. What do you know about him?"

"You'll have to be more specific."

"I want to know..." Val took a deep breath. "...why I can't kill him."

Majora paused, turning away.

"Hmm. Troubling indeed. Why can't you kill the skyling, I wonder?"

"You don't know?"

Majora turned on a dime, the burning eyes in his mask finding Val once again.

"Perhaps you can ply me with some less troubling queries."

Valentina hesitated, feeling suddenly doubtful, but she let it slide.

"My Master. Who is he?"

Majora sighed, "Ever my loyal Valentina. You know, he never appreciated you nearly so much as I have."

Val was growing impatient.

"Who is he?" she asked again.

Majora spread his hands in a helpless gesture, "Alas, the Goddess sealed him away. I doubt we shall ever be so fortunate as to have his company again."

"What? Majora, you must tell me! What did I do?" Val felt suddenly frantic. "Why did the Goddess seal away my Master and banish me?"

"It is my sincerest belief that she was afraid of us. All of us."

"Afraid?" Val echoed, stunned, "What would a Goddess have to fear from me?"

Majora tsked.

"Weren't you listening, my dear? You are powerful. It's in your name. Valentina means powerful."

"But I don't feel powerful," Val said, "I feel lost and useless."

"As is every sword spirit when bereaved of their purpose. No matter." Majora bent down so they were at eye level. "I could give you a new purpose, my dear."

Val took a step back, an underlying feeling of wariness gnawing at her.

"I'm not interested in being anyone's underling. Not anymore."

Majora sighed again, straightening.

"My dear Valentina," he said, "I fear you are much too loyal not to be."

And with that, he was gone.