... The chime on the door to the Happy Mask Shoppe jangled as a small customer entered the shady interior. The Happy Mask Salesman recognized the young boy in his distinctive forest-green garb. This was the little local "hero." Lyn...Linneas...Lincoln... Link! It was Link. The shop owner greeted him warmly. This child had been a frequent customer of his and was no doubt here to return one of the premium masks in exchange for borrowing another. Ah, he had the Gerudo Mask checked out. He probably wanted the Mask of Truth again. That piece was a creepy one...
The Happy Mask Salesman wrung his hands together and leaned over the counter. He could see that Link was as serious-faced as ever and just a little creeped out by his own perpetual smile. Such a serious child!
"Here is your Mask of Truth," the salesman said cheerfully. As Link turned to leave, he called out to the boy. "Say, child, are you prepared for the Shadow Night Festival? You may have forgotten, but it is mid-week next week, if weather permits."
"The Shadow Night Festival?" Link asked innocently. "I've never heard of it."
The Happy Mask Salesman gasped. "Oh, my, you must be a feral child of the forest! Here, in Castle Town, it is celebrated every year. It is most fun, young sir."
"What's it about?"
"Well," the mask-keeper replied, "It is a festival in honor of the Shadow element and in honor of those that have departed this world. The children of the town dress up in costumes and masks and follow the adults around begging for candies and treats." The man chuckled, "I'm afraid most of the adults do not like the holiday, since it gives the young people license to be obnoxious, but I do believe it is something everyone should experience."
"That sounds fun! Do the people from the farms come, too? I've got to tell Malon about this!"
"Might I interest you in a mask for the festival, young sir? The creepier the better!"
Link gave the Happy Mask Salesman a long look. "You must celebrate the Shadow Night Festival all year long!"
The Happy Mask Salesman's smile fell.