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sharkdream3421 · 10 months

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TOTK Ganondorf X Reader - Observant

Finished Tears of the Kingdom and I think that the game lacked character development for Ganondorf's character. Also cause this version of Ganondorf is attractive lol, but here's my take on him.

You were a traveler in Hyrule, it was only to be just that. You were interested in seeing the unique places all over hyrule. You've seen the Rito and they're ability to fly, the Gorons and how they can turn themselves into rock, then the Zora where they can swim underwater. The Gerudo? All you knew was that they were led by a man named Ganondorf, which was said a male Gerudo would be born every 100 years. People you've ran into on your travels have said that it is rare for a man to born in the Gerudo as it is mostly comprised of woman.

You've had a couple...questions to say the least. As to why this is the case, you had no idea. You knew that the Gerudo were tall people. The king of the Gerudo, Ganondorf was even taller. Probably the most tallest, human-looking man in Hyrule. Gerudo town was strange as they forbid any men from entering, but they let their king stay? Strange indeed.

You finally crossed the desert, rationing on chill shrooms to keep you from not dying by heat. You noticed two women stood guard. You nodded, and they nodded back for you to enter.

So, you did. You entered the town that was your last location to explore. Then their you saw him. In his robes with his upper torso being mostly revealed. Walking down the steps with his red hair tied in a bun was the king of the Gerudo himself. Ganondorf. All the Gerudo bowed, as he descended the steps. You could see him looking around until he spotted you.

You weren't sure if you should have bowed or if it wasn't necessary?

You felt intimated of his large size and presence. Then he smiled, but it wasn't a friendly smile. It was a smirk.

He slowly walked up to you with a face of disapproval. "Why are you not bowing before your king?"

"Oh sorry, I uhm am a traveler I'm not familiar with Gerudo culture." You say shyly.

"Hmm, perhaps you should learn our culture faster then. Then you would know that a Gerudo would bow before they're king," Ganondorf said with such spitefulness.

As Ganondorf continued to walk you decided that maybe he could teach you about Gerudo culture?

"Maybe you could teach me about your culture your majesty?" You said respectfully.

Ganondorf looked at you with uncertainty. "Why have you come here? Why are you asking a king about his culture? Surely our historians will give you the information you need."

"But surely you know more about your culture than the historians? I think it would be more interesting to hear your side of the story of the Gerudo." You replied back with nothing but a kind smile and respectfulness despite Ganondorf seemingly being a jerk to you.

Ganondorf gave you one long stare, before his face became one of a smirk. It could practically look like a witty, evil smirk.

"Very well. Come to my den at noon and I shall answer your questions traveler." Ganondorf then swung his garb as he turned around and left the city.

Perhaps he was going to the bazaar that was not far off from here? You didn't know, but you were interested in talking to him tomorrow at noon.

~~~~

You acended the steps of the Gerudo palace or den to say the least. You walked in the throne room to see Ganondorf sitting on top of a large throne. With nothing, but a look of seriousness.

Man he does look scary. The rumors weren't lying.

Ganondorf looks to his guards, "Leave us."

And just like that, the guards leave the room leaving you and the king of the Gerudo. Ganondorf looks down at you, making you feel small and innocent. Just another person who is trapped in his power of judgement.

"So, you wish to learn about the Gerudo?" He says casually, while seeming serious at the same time.

"Yes your honor, I was wondering what your backstory is like in the Gerudo. You don't get a king's story often." You say with a smile.

The smile doesn't affect Ganondorf though.

"Very well. I was born and raised from my father and mother to become the king of the Gerudo. I was under a curse when I was born, and would rather not talk about it. I learned combat, and how to fight with swords, spears, long swords, and more weapon variations. I like to consider myself as self-taught as I would learn the weapon techniques and make my own fighting style. Since only a male Gerudo was born every one-hundred years I was considered the king and leader of the Gerudo. I seek higher power in certain areas of hyrule."

You write all of this info down.

"Is that enough hylian?" Ganondorf asks.

You nod, "that's enough, but one more question?"

The king of thieves sighs heavily and then speaks, "Go ahead."

"Why do the Gerudo live in the desert?" I ask.

"The Gerudo prefer to live outside of hyrule. We believe we are more competent on our own than having to rely on hyrule's resources to live in the desert. We do get shipments from certain areas of hyrule, but those locations are only knowledgeable of me and higher ups." Ganondorf explains.

You jot all the notes down and bow to Ganondorf, "Thank you your honor."

Ganondorf closes his eyes and hums a goodbye as you leave the den.

Your at the corner of town thinking about all of what Ganondorf has said. You found it particularly strange that the king of thieves accepted to have an audience with you. A stranger, a traveler. You weren’t sure why he did, but none the less you got an interesting side of the story when it came to Gerudo’s culture and lifestyle and it was none other than Ganondorf himself. A rare feat that few have probably accomplished.

Either way, you were happy that you got your information, but something was off about this guy. He was known as an outsider in hyrule and a bad man. He wasn’t just called “The King of Thieves,” for nothing after all. He still hasn’t agreed to an audience with the king of hyrule, Rauru. He’s been rather distant by what you have heard. Maybe planning something?

You spent the rest of your afternoon playing with a small vai. She was bored and asked you to play with her, which you happily obliged.

“Traveler.”

You turn around to see Ganondorf standing behind you. You feel so small as this man practically makes you feel like a dwarf! You back away and itch your neck.

“Uhm yea? How may I help you?” You ask.

Ganondorf folds his hands behind his back in a rather respectful manner. “You are interesting, I never got the chance to know who you are.”

“Oh I’m (first name) (last name). It’s an honor to have interviewed you your majesty.”

Strangely out of character, Ganondorf dismisses your politeness.

“Their are no need for formalities. It feels as if we know each enough to not call each other names by royalty. You may use Ganondorf.”

You had so many questions about this man’s life. He was a lier, used deception to get what he wanted, and he was not to be trusted. You suddenly felt insecure.

“Why are you so nice to me all of a sudden? Your mostly known for being the king of thieves.” You ask.

Ganondorf frowns, “I do not have any friends. Mostly, because of my title. I am content in what I do. I see a matter of an opportunity for the both of us to gain something from each other.”

Your curiosity is now on peak.

Ganondorf notices this and chuckles, “I need more intel on the other kingdoms in Hyrule. Since your a traveler, you can get me information on they’re current situations. Report back to me and I will pay you handsomely for each report. Perhaps if we work well in this transaction. We might just become allies and maybe friends.”

This was a big ask coming from Ganondorf, but you didn’t have a job and you loved traveling. This offer was the best of both worlds though. How could you refuse it? More money, while traveling. Score!

“Alright you got yourself a deal,” you say as you shake Ganondorf’s hand.

While Ganondorf shakes your hand, a grin appears on his face. Just another step toward conquering hyrule, and maybe having a new friend along the way.

Masterlist

#legend of zelda #tears of the kingdom #ganondorf dragmire #ganondorf #ganondorf x reader #totk ganondorf

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fanfiction-fantasies · 2 years

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Imagine falling asleep on the Breath of the Wild boys

Link would probably keep still, but relax his arm so as not to bring you discomfort. The two of you had stopped at a campfire in a relatively safe spot, and as the moon traveled through the sky, exhaustion had finally caught up with you. When Link noticed you, asleep on his shoulder, a rare smile pulls at the corner of his mouth. He stays wide awake, keeping an eye out for any danger that may try to approach. However, when you make a noise in your sleep, he turns to you, and finds himself falling for how peaceful you look when sleeping.

Revali would roll his eyes and scoff. He'd spent the past few hours training at the flight range, and the one time he decides to take a break (one that you had nagged at him to take), you go and fall asleep on him! Really, he wanted to be annoyed at you, but seeing how you cuddled into his wing subconsciously, that irritation melted like ice next to a fire. Very carefully, he would move you to rest against his chest so that he could wrap his wings around you properly. Don't fear the cold, dear, he will keep you warm.

Daruk would be nervous, at first. He knows he's not the softest guy around, after all! He figures he should have seen it coming though. He'd spent all day showing you around Goron City and giving you a tour of the inside of Vah Rudania (even though, technically, he wasn't supposed to do that). It's no wonder you're tired! Very carefully, he picks you up and cradles you in his hands as he guides Rudania back to Goron City. He'll find a good place for you to nap, don't you worry little one!

If you thought Daruk was nervous, Yunobo is ten times worse. This poor boy is already nervous as is, but through in a cute little thing like you falling asleep on him? He doesn't know what to do! So he stays perfectly still. He's stiff as a board, and frantically shushing anyone who tries to talk to him. The last thing in the world he wants is for you to wale up. Because as nervous as he is, he has to admit... it's nice, knowing you feel safe enough to sleep near him. Now if only his leg hadn't gone numb...

Teba doesn't outwardly react. One would assume it's because he hadn't noticed, but that couldn't be further from the truth. Yes, he was still fine tuning his bow, but if you look closely, you'll see a certain slowness to his movements, and you'll notice how the arm you're resting on isn't moving very much. Believe it or not, he's used to being slept on. Tulin once had a tendency of climbing into his lap and falling asleep back when he was a little chick, and this isn't much different. Still, Teba is quiet and gentle with his movements. He's not the kind to wake others unnecessarily.

Sidon would be surprised, but not unpleasantly so. He had brought you to a quiet, secluded cave just outside of the Domain so that the two of you could have some time away from prying eyes. The Zora prince had noticed you looked a bit worse for wear, tired and run ragged by adventuring and helping out around Hyrule. He had hoped a quiet outing would revitalize you, but it seems that a bit of rest is what you truly needed. Still, it surprised him that you would fall asleep against him so easily. Seeing you in this vulnerable state, trusting him to keep you safe... his heart fluttered in his chest. Yes, he thought, pulling you close to him. Yes, he will always keep you safe, should you permit him. You have nothing to fear while you are by his side.

#botw x reader #link x reader #revali x reader #daruk x reader #yunobo x reader #teba x reader #prince sidon x reader #man this was refreshing to write #might make a part two with the girls

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bahbahhh · 10 months

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begin again

Chapters: [2 ] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]

The Calamity is gone. The remaining leaders of Hyrule gather for a Summit to determine the future of the kingdom, starting with how to repurpose all the Sheikah Technology. Zelda is among them, and while everyone still calls her Princess, she’s not sure she wants to lay claim to an old throne. What she really wants is to move on. She wants to continue her research, to prove her worth beyond her bloodline, and to spend as much time with Link as she can…which sounds an awful lot like what she wanted a hundred years ago…

[ A story set between BotW and TotK, containing many spoilers for TotK as it was born from my need to explain many of the changes we see. A tremendous thank you to @zeldaelmo who volunteered to beta read this before she knew what she was getting herself into. I am immensely thankful for your eagle eye and your patience. ]

chapter 1

for the prompt “yearning”

Zelda doesn’t have a bed.

She thinks about this lying on the spare one in Purah’s study. She’s staying with Purah for the Hyrule Restoration Summit, which is what they are calling the first official gathering of Hyrule leaders since the fall of the Calamity, and the more she thinks about it, technically speaking, it's a cot.

It’s not unlike the one she uses when they are in Kakariko, albeit a few inches shorter, like everything else customized for a child in Purah’s lab. Zelda has to lay at an angle to fit and even so, her feet dangle over the edge when she straightens her legs. Symin offered her his bed, as Paya had in Kakariko, and like there, Zelda declined.

When she traveled a century ago, families were forced to give up their entire homes to host her. Royal quarters were permanently built in Kakariko, Rito Village, Gerudo Town, and Zora’s Domain. Due to the hostile environment surrounding Goron City, the Gorons agreed to travel to Akkala Citadel whenever there was official business with the Royal family which, in addition to a military fortress for the Hyrulian armed forces, acted as a second residence for her family. Another bed.

But that was all before. Akkala Citadel is in ruins, all the Royal quarters have since been repurposed by their respective domains, and Zelda will never ask anything more of the people of Hyrule so long as she draws breath.

Still, selfishly, and in the safety of her own thoughts, she yearns for the comfort of a real bed. Nothing extravagant, no need for anyone in Hyrule to forfeit their comforts on her behalf. Just somewhere she can readily count on for rest when sleep decides to visit.

That’s what Link says: a visit of sleep.

They are alike in this way. Their internal clocks recalibrated in the prolonged absence of waking, such that their bodies don’t readily cue the need for sleep. In the beginning, it took her weeks just to register the sensation of fatigue again. She stayed awake for two full days after the final confrontation on Hyrule Field before collapsing abruptly during the climb up to Kakariko’s western entrance. Link had to carry her the rest of the way. She slept for ninety-two hours straight.

When Zelda finally awoke, someone was smoothing her hair out of her face. Another sensory experience she needed to register again: touch. Not toxic oil on her skin, claws of shadow raking down her spine, or darkness pulling so tight it feels like it might become one with her. Actual human touch.

She hoped it might be Link in a delayed return of her affections for a heartbeat, but when she opened her eyes, it was an old Sheikah woman at her bedside. Zelda’s expression must have soured or pulled with confusion, because the woman began to laugh. Laughter. Warm and inviting and familiar. The sound vibrated inside Zelda like a bell. She gasped, set her hands on either side of the women’s face and felt a sudden and painful ache that has accompanied every subsequent realization of her losses.

She will never age like she was meant to. With the people of her time, with the people she loved.

And after a century in stasis, she is on the verge of being completely left behind.

“Now, it’s not that bad, is it?” Impa teased.

Zelda didn’t answer. She wept.

It has gotten a little better in the months since she returned to her physical form. She’s started to suspect Link is “visited’ by sleep out of preference more than necessity. But really, he slept for a hundred years, so she can’t blame him for rejecting a more traditional sleep cycle. She, on the other hand, was frozen. Not sleeping, not waking, just there—like gravity itself. Holding everything and everyone in place, unnoticeable until she wasn’t, when the Calamity would slip free of her grasp, swirl about the castle, and remind Hyrule of the horrors that awaited them if she failed again.

Zelda smudges a tear against the side of her face and turns onto her back. Regardless, she can’t help but feel like having a bed, a ceiling overhead she recognizes, and the freedom to get up and roam down to a kitchen for a slice of fruitcake when the night is still young, that she might be visited by rest more willingly when she wants it. Needs it.

Like tonight.

“So, what you're really talking about is wanting a home,” Zelda tells herself, a habit formed in the decades of solitude. Sometimes, in periods of dormancy or resignation, the Calamity would growl back at her in a tone that was almost human. But for the most part, she started talking to herself in and out of days and throughout the years until her sense of time too was a thing Hylia claimed in penance for her failures.

“That’s not accurate,” she chides herself and flips onto her stomach. Blaming the Goddess is a bad habit she is trying to change. When she finally unlocked her Powers, suspended in divinity, the closest to holy she’s ever been, the Goddess didn’t even answer her then. It was just the sound of her own voice, echoing back at her from inside the Calamity.

A bed. Something simple and fixed, like the one Link has in his house right on the outskirts of the village. Zelda’s caught glimpses of it when they’ve stopped there to replenish supplies; nestled against the wall on the second floor, beneath the only window so natural light kisses him awake when he finally decides to rest. He has a small dresser for linens and travel spoils, and a bedside table that is home to a painted vase from Rito Village he often fills with fresh flowers.

She wonders which flowers are watching over him right now. Has sleep visited him? Or is he rolling about his sheets, worrying about the Summit, trying to break old habits, or craving something warm from the cooking pot down the stairs?

If he is awake, it is likely the latter. He would be able to sleep on a night like this. The air is cool. Everyone at the Summit knows him personally; is indebted to him in some way, although he carries no ledger. He is known. Respected. Tomorrow is just another day. Sleep will visit.

Zelda’s role in all of this is yet to be defined. While news of Calamity Ganon’s defeat spread quickly, there was no whisper of the lost Princess’ return at first. Rumors focused on the disappearance of the shadow around Hyrule Castle and then later, turned into formal requests for Link’s presence in the aid of investigating the Divine Beasts sudden malfunctioning. No one asked about her.

And it was nice.

For a brief moment, she fantasized about cutting her hair, burning her dress, and letting Zelda disappear with the embers into history. Maybe she would accompany Link as a traveling scholar under another name? Or join the Sheikah and train with the weapons she was forbidden to touch a hundred years ago?

Impa, however, had other plans. She suggested Zelda travel with Link to investigate Vah Ruta so the Zora could verify her identity. They found her old travel clothes, Link presented her with a descendant of her horse, Storm, and the dreams of obscurity ceased. The Zora instantly recognized her, adding credibility to the announcement of her return and soon, her identity grew heavy with an unspoken claim to a throne that needed rebuilding.

No one has officially said anything, but there is a generous amount of speculation surrounding tomorrow and the opportunity to reestablish a centralized and unifying governing body. If they asked it of her, she would have no choice but to accept, right? It is the duty tied to this life. This title.

Maybe she could convince them of her usefulness as a scholar? She no longer has any restrictions on time spent researching. She could help the Sheikah redesign their technology. Perhaps to aid in the great restoration…if she could just get the Divine Beasts up and running again, they would prove so useful in the rebuilding!

This part of her, shunned by her family and now forgotten with them, could be the key to proving her worth beyond a head to carry the crown. She will show them. She has to. They don’t seem to know what else to do with her, otherwise. Rarely does anyone use her name, even after they realized who she is.

They all call her ‘Princess’.

Except for Link.

Zelda turns onto her side and inspects the empty sliver of cot beside her. She runs her hand across the weaving and thinks about how she used to be able to visit Link. When the Calamity was dormant and her Power was still new and untaxed, she would separate a part of herself from Hyrule Castle and ride the wind to the Great Plateau. She watched the seasons turn by Link’s side in the shrine until the Calamity would wake and pull her back into herself like a rubber band. This went on for decades.

When he finally woke up and the shrine’s toll for restoring his life was realized, Zelda felt her strength begin to waver. She is not aware of a word that accurately describes the feeling of being forgotten by the person you tethered your heart to; to have it remain connected to that person and witness it drift behind them, becoming more of a dark cloud than guiding light.

Her love for him burned for a hundred years. Somehow, in the depths of a living, breathing, rageful hell, it grew. It grounded her within the swirl of eternal darkness, the unyielding burn of malice, the mourning of time. As his memories of their kingdom, their comrades, and of her, returned to him, his reckoning of it all remained indistinguishable.

The last six months between them were uncomfortable. He never outwardly answered her question on the field. He extended his hand and led her away from the castle. He was gentle yet reserved, closer than the three paces he once stood as her appointed knight and still somehow further than when he sunk into the glowing waters of the shrine and she stepped into the center of the darkest night. Did his love die with him on the field that day? Was it left in the spot where he bled out, where flowers now grow? Has one unknowingly ever made it back to his bedside table? Could he recognize it now?

Did he want to?

She glances over her shoulder quickly, half expecting him to be there like he always was all those years ago, appearing out of thin air, as a part of her as her own shadow.

But there is no one else in the room. Her shadow is empty. Her window shut.

Zelda turns her attention back to the empty spot beside her and begins to imagine the weight of his arms around her. The sound of his sleep. His breath on her face. The cot is small, like his bed, but in the way she imagines they might fit together, it would be enough for sleep to find her. Even on a night like this.

But there is no one else in the room.

Just her and a bed, that's not even a bed, that doesn’t belong to her.

—

Sleep doesn’t visit her.

Zelda eventually gives up and pours her energy into drafting up a proposal on how to repurpose the Sheikah Technology. The Divine Beasts will be a tremendous asset. Vah Ruta can create new water reservoirs. Vah Medoh can mass transport supplies and people across Hyrule. Vah Rudania and Vah Naboris will be essential for maneuvering the harsher terrains of each region.

She is confident she and Robbie could reprogram the guardians and assign them different purposes. She will recommend they remove all of the mechanics for combat, save for a select few machines that will be assigned to aid in monster defense.

Their greatest challenge will be finding a new power source. When Zelda obliterated Calamity Ganon from the realm, her Light purified every non-living thing it held influence over; every pool of Malice evaporated instantly and every guardian -earthbound, skyward or decayed- from the North Akkala Beach to Daval’s Peak stopped working. Robbie has yet to find a working ancient core and hypothesizes Zelda “nuked the network”. Whatever that means.

The Sheikah Towers and shrines remain functional, so once they isolate the remaining source of power, she is confident Robbie and Purah will be able to design and power up new cores.

If only she had access to the old blueprints in her study…

On her way down to the main floor, she scribbles a note about returning to the castle upon acceptance of the proposal. She folds the pages carefully and tucks them into the small leather satchel Link gave her. Purah assumes ownership of the Sheikah Slate whenever they come to Hateno, so Link presented her with a satchel enchanted by the koroks so she can carry multiple items outside of the Slate on her at all times. Link has an identical one.

He jokingly calls it an ‘adventure pouch’.

Purah, Symin and a few others are already buzzing about the lab. Purah has the Sheikah Slate in the Guidance Stone, a tear drop of crystal blue bouncing between the stone and the Slate every few seconds. Zelda always thought it was interesting that information takes the shape of a teardrop. Was it intentional by the Sheikah who created the technology all those years ago? Or is it just the natural form of data? Of memory?

There is so much for them to learn.

“Good morning, Princess!” Purah says without looking up from her work. Zelda decided earlier this morning, just as the sun started peeking through her window, not to fight the title of Princess anymore. She would help them rebuild the kingdom, sit on a new throne if they asked it of her, but she would have a hand defining the responsibilities of the title.

“Good morning,” Zelda answers.

Purah rapidly flaps her hand in Zelda’s direction. Zelda moves into the spot beside Purah, who is balanced on her knees on a pillow in order to sit level with the table. There are sketches of the Sheikah Slate, looking very much like a six year old drew them, along with an unflattering portrait of Symin, and handwriting Zelda won’t even attempt to decipher.

“I think I can duplicate the Slate,” Purah says, snapping her fingers.

Zelda grins. She imagines each region having their own Slate. The possibilities for research, for communication. How quickly Hyrule could share information…the problems they could solve!

Link pushes open the door to the lab. Zelda imagines how his shoulders might relax the more Hyrule becomes connected. His burden would finally be eased...then maybe…

“Good morning!” She practically bursts.

Link waves and crosses the room to the cooking pot. Symin starts explaining what he is cooking and Link casually dumps the entire contents into the fire. Symin sighs in relief and pulls out a notebook. Link produces the ingredients one by one from his pouch, displaying each carefully so Symin can copy the recipe. A dozen eggs, Hylian tomatoes, assorted mushrooms, a handful of greens, and a tiny bottle of Goron spice. Zelda’s mouth waters before he even starts cooking.

She watches Link demonstrate how to slice the tomatoes before setting Symin to work, involving Symin in the salvaging of the meal and in doing so, lessening the blow of his failure. It is a change in Link’s behavior she has loved witnessing: he is eager to share his knowledge after awakening from the shrine; to spread it generously with everyone who asks for his help. In this way, he is teaching Hyrule how to need him less in the long run, a step forfeited a century ago by the pressure he felt and the structure of the role assigned to him.

Hero, knight, swordsman; whatever title he is to carry moving forward, she will protect his freedom to define it as well.

They eat quickly and head down the hill toward the village together. Hateno is the chosen location for the Summit because it has the largest settlement of Hylians, who, as a whole, have been without formal leadership for over a century. Central Hyrule was initially considered given the proximity for all participants, but the general consensus is six months of calm is not enough time for anyone to meet comfortably in the shadow of the castle.

“I heard this is the first time King Dorephan has left his domain in two hundred years,” Purah whispers to Zelda as they turn the corner down the split in the road to Hateno Pasture. A farmer named Dantz offered up his land, which borders Lake Sumac, to host. The water provides an added measure of comfort for the Zora. Zelda spots King Dorephan sitting close to the shore with several elder Zora and Prince Sidon.

There are a handful of Hylians mingling with leading members of the Sheikah, Rito, Gorons, and Gerudo.

Purah and Symin split off to join Impa, who is sitting in the shade of a nearby tree with Paya. Their movement pulls the attention of the crowd in Zelda’s direction. She watches recognition ripple across the group. The conversations soften and then die off completely at the mere sight of her. Just like old times.

Zelda flexes her fingers.

Suddenly, there is a hand in hers. She jumps, glancing to her side where only Link stands. He’s looking right at her, the same way everyone else is, but she doesn’t feel the weight of the crown on her shoulders in his gaze. He squeezes her hand and nods her forward.

“Right. Okay, then,” Zelda whispers.

Link leads her around the crowd so she can make introductions before the Summit starts. She is already known to the Sheikah, who are represented by Impa, Robbie, Purah, Symin, Paya, and Cado, and the Zora. Prince Sidon embraces her and compliments Link relentlessly.

It is Zelda’s first time meeting the Goron Boss, Bludo, who introduces Zelda to a young Goron named Yubono and emphasizes he is a descendant of Daruk, as well as the Rito Chief, Kaneli. He is joined by a Rito warrier named Teba, and his son, Tulin, who begs Link to go shooting with him later that day. Link offers the fledgling a thumbs up and then gestures like, you want to go now, quick?

Teba scolds them both.

Her favorite introduction is the last one. Chief Makeela Riju, who insists Zelda calls her Riju, informs Zelda the Gerudo sun has missed her and personally invites her to come meet her pet sand seal.

There certainly is a lot of personality, but Zelda feels certain the proposal will appease them all equally. The fact Link’s hand has remained in hers the entire time only boosts her confidence. Should she request the floor immediately or wait to see if there are region-specific needs she can weave into her proposal? She wants to emphasize the importance of each region’s involvement.

“I think it’s time,” Impa makes her way out of the shade with the other Sheikah and takes the spot closest to Zelda. “that we begin again, don’t you all agree?”

“Well said. The Zora recognize the start of the Hyrule Restoration Summit,” King Dorphean says.

“As do the Rito.”

“And the Gerudo.”

“The Shei-kah!” Robbie throws his hand in the air and postures.

“Gorons,” Bludo grunts.

“The Hylians have elected four representatives: I, Reede of Hateno Village, Elder Rozel of Lurelin Village, Hudson of Tarrey Town, and Traysi for the Stable Association. We recognize the start of the Hyrule Restoration Summit.”

“I officially call this meeting to order.” Impa claps her hands together and sits. She thanks everyone for traveling and for the village of Hateno for their hospitality. She summarizes the objective of the meeting as a gathering of the people of Hyrule in preliminary discussions about plans for a massive restoration following the purge of Calamity Ganon. She explains the forum will be open, but organized, in order for accurate minute keeping. Everyone motions in favor of detailed records. There are too many nameless ruins, too many stories and lessons lost to time scattered across Hyrule.

“Since there is no old business to attend to, I suppose it might be best to open the floor up to hear any initial recommendations for the restoration?”

Link raises his hand.

He so rarely speaks out loud that the anticipation of it commands the attention of the entire Summit immediately. It might be her imagination, but Zelda swears the wind stops, too.

“Let the record show the Hylian Champion and Hero of the Wild, Link, has the floor,” Impa dictates and gestures for Link to continue. Zelda fishes her proposal out from her adventure pouch and folds it in her lap. Whatever he says, she’s assuming he will have some brilliant suggestions on how the former trade routes can be optimized or offer insight into the state of Central Hyrule for an exhibition, it will provide the perfect opportunity for her to follow.

Link turns and smiles at her as he rises. It’s small. Relaxed. The kind of smile that’s only meant for the space between two people. Which means it is meant for her.

She smiles back.

With her plans for the Sheikah Technology, which will no doubt be strengthened by Link’s expertise, they can face this new Hyrule together. Self-chosen, this time, not forced by fate and the responsibilities of an old kingdom.

Her heart flutters so rapidly at the thought, it takes her brain a moment to register what he actually says:

“I propose the first step in the restoration of Hyrule should be the destruction of all Sheikah Technology.”

#totk spoilers #totk #totk fanfiction #totk fanfic #totk zelink #botw zelink #botw #breath of the wild #loz #legend of zelda #tears of the kingdom #loz totk #zelinkweek2023 #zelinkcommunity #bahbahhhart #bahbahhhwrites #begin again

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breannasfluff · 11 months

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The sight of Link flanked by two wolves fades from fear to acceptance, and then vanishes into the background. A greenish grey wolf with markings on his head flanks Link’s left. A golden hued wolf, slightly larger than the other, pads at his right.

Link often walks with a hand on both of them, chatting out loud as if they can answer. Perhaps they can, because the canines flick their ears and make vocalizations back.

There’s not a single inn stay that doesn’t include two wolves curled on his bed. The stables are no different and the horses rarely bat an eye at the predators, unlike native wolves.

Link’s house has nests of blankets next to his own bed for the two to curl up in. Twilight, the grey wolf, will let the children of Hateno ride on his back and pull his ears.

Time, the golden wolf, keeps a watchful eye on anyone who wanders off and herds them away from danger.

They follow Link across Hyrule as he frees each divine beast. Goron City comes last because no matter how long the boy delayed, wolves simply couldn’t enter the volcano.

That beast seems to be freed in record time, while the stable folk keep a wary eye on the wolves pacing the foot of the path every day.

Link returns; skin burnt pink despite armor and protection, but more than happy to be fussed over by the worried canines.

The Calamity is defeated and all the land sighs in relief. No one sees the hero for a few days, although smoke from the chimney of his house sparks curious questions.

Bolson waits, but when it’s clear Link won’t emerge anytime soon, he heads for the bridge to the house.

The knock on the door brings not Link, but a blond female to the door. She stares at Bolson, face pressed to the crack of the door, but doesn’t speak.

“Hi, cutie,” he says, because at least one of them should have manners. “Are you a friend of Link’s?”

She seems to actively roll the question around before nodding. Not promising.

“I didn’t know he had any lady friends.” What Link gets up to in the bedroom is his own, but he doesn’t seem the type to bring pretty girls home immediately after defeating evil monsters. Then again, maybe that’s the prize for a hero?

The girl is still staring at him; face blank.

Dancing around the proverbial bush is getting him nowhere. “I’d like to see Link. I’m his friend.” This doesn’t take consideration.

Finally, the girl swings the door open and lets him in. “Link’s upstairs.” Her voice is soft; gentler than Bolson expects.

“Is he hurt?” He slides past her and makes for the stairs, anxious to lay eyes on Link himself.

She trails after him and waves a hand vaguely. “See for yourself.”

Link seems fine; curled on the floor between the blanket beds for the wolves. The beds are empty.

“Link?” His voice doesn’t bring a reaction and Bolson frowns as he moves to crouch by him. “Sweetie, are you okay? We’ve been worried about you.”

Link finally looks up. His face is ashen, eyes red and puffy from what must be crying.

“Honey?” Bolson’s already reaching for Link, who doesn’t protest the hug. “Where are your wolf boys?”

It’s the wrong thing to say, because Link starts crying again.

“Gone.”

Previous | Next: ??

#linked universe #feral link #feral wild #lu time #linkeduniverse #botw #breath of the wild #breannasfluff #Wolf Time #lu wolfie #my writing #botw bolson #botw zelda

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linktotheheart · 11 months

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I'm in abject adoration with the whole "signing Link" headcanon. Whether he's d/Deaf, nonspeaking, both... idc it's so good. No TOTK spoilers, just hcs that mention the TOTK Ganondorf without any canon details about him

AND it's spawned so many spinoff hcs.

Like, one of my fave villain types is 'oh yeah I'm massively evil and murder people but I draw the line at bigotry' so most iterations of Ganondorf ABSOLUTELY know Hylian sign in my hc. TOTK Ganondorf knows either ancient Hylian sign or Zonia or Sheikah sign but he and Link manage through some shared signs

Each of the races have their own language too. Goron sign language is the simplest. A lot of fists, lot of pounding, it's actually partially based in rhythm/vibrations that most others don't pick up on, but it's also mostly about rock/mining related stuff, same as the goron spoken language xD

Rito language on the other hand is based on the subtlest of angle changes of the wing. This is because it's meant to be able to be used on the fly, pun intended, and their sharp eyesight allows them to see even these minute changes over great distances. Hylians and Gorons struggle to grasp this, but Zora and surprisingly Gerudo pick it up fairly easily.

Now Zora, like Rito, are essentially operating in a all-dimensional environment a lot of the time, when swimming. Their sign language is designed to be understandable from any direction, but because of distortion underwater, relies on large gestures and motion for much of this.

And finally, Gerudo. Not much to say here. It's about as different from Hylian sign as all the others, despite the spoken languages having a common ancestor (think BSL and ASL). There's not a lot of words for stuff related to men, and when needed they'll just combine the sign for "voe" with the specific thing.

Also, another hc besides the common ancestor language for the spoken language that also applies to sign - young boys are called "vai" by Gerudo until they hit their races equivalent of adulthood. Before then they are allowed within city walls, though are often treated with less leniency if they misbehave.

#sign language #legend of zelda #breath of the wild #botw #tears of the kingdom #totk #link #ganondorf #goron #gerudo #rito #zora

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powdermelonkeg · 1 year

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Tears of the Kingdom: The Final Analysis

Part 6

Part 5 here

Link flies through the air on his stone Loftwing.

And what is that? I'm tempted to say it's like the weird circle things down on the surface, but it looks way too smooth. It contrasts the other isles so starkly, though, so it must be something important.

We get a full view of the isles above the southern part of the map. Among the interesting ones are:

This flower-shaped island

This one, with a pond

This shiny stone monument

A lighthouse

And this massive one I'm going to call the City in the Sky.

Then below it we have two malice craters and a glowing tower.

Another glyph towards the bottom looks a lot rounder than they usually are.

Then Link's on one of the islands, facing down two Zonai Construct soldiers.

First off, they've got rusty gear. So it's very likely that Zonai weapons are going to be added to the Rock Octorok cleaning loot table.

And that is a seagull.

So we're near the either the Necluda or Akkala shore.

Link here has fused a Royal Claymore to a Royal Shield, weapons that are typically late game. Unless this is also late game, either they've been nerfed, or they're relatively easy to get early.

Also, shield on a sword lets you parry with a strike. Fun!

Next, Link glides over this floating orb, which looks to be the gatchapon machine from the outside.

The entryway hole has the same kind of greebling along its edge.

In the background of this shot, we can see the Rist Peninsula in the corner.

So the orb is somewhere in this area, northwest of Zora's Domain:

Then you've got all these weird pillar things.

Are they the weird towers from earlier, but taller? Is it something reaching up towards the sky? Whatever it is, it looks fragile and almost liquid-y to me.

Next, Link fights this fireball thing while wearing Flamebreaker stuff.

First, his weapon. Here's a better view of it a few frames later.

The main piece looks like a Cobble Crusher weapon, just without the detailing, and the "pick" of it is the moblin horn that we saw briefly in the battle for Hateno.

Also, in the background of this clip, we've got two baby Gorons watching near the entrance:

So it's very likely that fireball fight is some kind of voluntary challenge against a fired-up Goron.

Though it's worth noting that the room is full of weird splotches in malice red. The Goron could be corrupted, or be trying to fight Link to see who can take on whatever monster is deeper into the cavern.

I've hit image limit again. I'll be back with a link to part 7!

Edit: Part 8!

#loz #zelda #totk #breakdown #analysis #long post #congration we are halfway through my screenshots

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imaginethezeldaverse · 10 months

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"Ah, sorry I'm late, Bludo, it took a while to find the right herbs" your apology sincere as you carefully handed the large jar to him. Being a medicinal herb specialist, you were always happy to help the ailing chief with his problems. Admittedly, the Gorons were happy to have you, his original pain medicine beginning to lose its effectiveness after having taken it so many times to soothe his aches and pains. In you would swoop, like an angel with leaves (as Bludo loved to joke) to mix a concoction of Korok fronds, Goron hot spring water and broken-down hearty truffles. The result: a salve capable of relaxing the muscles in the boss's back - only this time with more potency and without the risk of tolerance buildup. The Goron patriarch beamed with joy, knowing he could count on you to fix him up something nice for his awful back was worth the wait, he figured. He was incredibly grateful for your talents, and even moreso that his assistant-turned-entrepreneur legend was the one to introduce you. You'd met Yunobo in your travels, crossing paths in Hyrule post-Ganondorf as you tended to the wounded and the sick. Though you didn't possess the same healing qualities as the Zora did, you were blessed to have the capability of mentally archiving a vast amount of knowledge of plant-life and all of their properties. He was sweetly reserved, that you remembered - but there was fire in him (as you would find out quite literally!) and he often aided you in transporting people since his Goron strength allowed for it with ridiculous ease. From there, his journey back home was at its beginning, and he begged you to come with him - his chief in desperate need of something to relieve his old back of its soreness. The rest was history. "Ha! Ya always know exactly when to show up, kiddo" Bludo guffaws, taking the jar from you and planting his hand over you to rub the top of your head. You laughed softly at the old man's affections. People often warned you he was rough around the edges, but you swore Bludo had been nothing but kind to you. Whether that was because you supplied him with the holy grail of pain relief remains to be seen. "Anytime, Bludo, I'm always happy to help you," you affirmed, matching his grin with your own. "Y'see, and you're nice t'boot," he continues, finally reeling his hand back from your now tousled hair, "Now I know why the boy likes you so dang much, you're a one inna million." You feel your heart initially flutter at this information, but that pales in comparison to the sheer thump you feel in your chest when you look behind Bludo. The "boy" in question - was standing not far off from you both; his initial intention was to welcome you back from herb hunt. As soon as the words left the Boss's mouth, Yunobo froze. You can tell by the way he looks ready to run that this was something you weren't supposed to hear; at least not this way and definitely not from anyone else. His cheeks color several shades of crimson, and although you want to look anywhere else to give him some reprieve, you can't help but have your eyes glued to his humiliated expression. Bludo looks between the two of you, unsure of exactly what's happening. "Yunobo..." you begin, earning a yelp when the Goron hears his name. A few steps forward, only a hair past his mentor do you stand when you ask "...Is that true?" His world is melting all around him as he processes your question. Is it true that he looks forward to your visits every time you come to Goron City? Is true that your laughter dances like a song inside of chest? Is it true that he thinks you're the most beautiful, intelligent, wonderous person he's ever had the pleasure of meeting? Of course it was. It was all true. But he wasn't ready to tell you that yet. Given who he is and the power he wields, he wanted more time. More time for you to get to know him, to feel truly comfortable around him. More time to veer past President Yunobo of YunoboCo, or Sage of Fire Yunobo - but rather simply Yunobo, just a Goron from the city. He swore he planned to tell you. You've been on his mind so much already, he just...he just...! Within a mere second's time, Yunobo curled up into a ball and zoomed out toward Death Mountain - actual fire trailing behind him as he rolled away. Your hand came to your face in surprise, you'd never seen him be so agile before! Once the initial shock of his departure wore off, something sad crept into your heart. For all the long months that you had visited and stayed in Goron City, all the lovely conversations at Hyrule Castle, the shared meals, the many many times you reassured one another through your own individual weariness'... You were honestly hoping it was true.

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rawliverandgoronspice · 10 months

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To ALSO add to the last reblog: I think I finally pinpointed what bugs me so much about TotK from a gameplay perspective (and that extends to BotW to an extent, tho not as much but still). Zelda used to be about exploration, combat and puzzle. The world was your oyster for discovering new mysteries, you were put into situations that required you to devise which tool to use and how to understand a space and its possibilities better, and you would fight on your way there also. But to me, we clearly were in a puzzle-first environment, where enemies came to try and halt your journey, while not being endgoals in themselves.

I think there was a drastic shift to combat-first gameplay since 2017 that I don't think we really acknowledged as a fanbase. Sure, there *are* puzzles still, but they are mostly relegated to shrines and dungeons. In the overworld, your challenges are traversal (and sometimes that warrants a puzzle and it's *great* when it happens) and combat-based (oh no, I want to go from point A to point B but there's a Hinox on the way!). But... Okay. Basically, in old Zelda games, every location was an intricate bundle of puzzles. To throw just an example among many, many others: Clock Town, in MM's, is a complex bundle of puzzles and opportunities and discoveries to make, taking on more and more depth as you acquire more tools and understand the intricate logic that animates it. The town itself is a toy that generally requires little to no combat. You have to understand what you can play with, and use observation, abilities and time to unwrap the entire thing. Geometry is here to ground you and give you a sense of realism --but more importantly, it's here to challenge your spatial understanding and give you little mysteries to return to later and expand upon.

Clock Town is obviously a pretty unique example, but... I don't know, I could have used Goron City, or Castle Town from Minish Cap, or a bunch of places from TP... My point is: places always had this intricate mixture of fun, moody set-dressing and puzzle-based intrigue. It's one of my favorite things about old school Zelda... and it's much, much rarer in these new iterations. Not saying it's not here, but it's not the focus anymore. The gameplay loop doesn't ask you to unravel the world in the same way. You want upgrades? You gotta kill a mini boss about it. You want more heart pieces? You gotta do shrines, which are utterly separated from the overworld (and sometimes combat-based too!). NPCs are no longer these keys in larger puzzles, but are basically used the way Skyrim would use them (no shade on Skyrim, love these kind of games --though getting tired tbh-- but they are not the same beast).

Now the game loop is much more about: how do I get from point A to point B, and how to I get rid of obstacle X on my way? Now I have gotten rid of obstacle X and I have better loot and better skill to help me get rid of larger obstacles --and getting rid of them is actively encouraged, and it's a huge part of what makes the game fun. It's not a bad game loop by any mean! But it is a drastic change from the old formula. And to me... there is, especially in TotK due to More Things I Already Talked About, a real loss of whismy and smallness and mystery inherent to that change.

I think this is why I lost interest in the Depths so fast. The Depths are about movement and combat... and basically nothing else. People who are into that kind of approach will be thrilled, but I got bored pretty fast because, beyond feeling empty, the Depths felt thoughtless to me.

Yes, of course, open worlds make it much harder to focus on intricate world design the way the old games used to conceive themselves. But... Yeah, we still begin to stray away from what once was a core pillar of the series, and one that was, by definition, much less violent.

#tloz #totk #totk critical #majora's mask #thoughts #game design #in the broadest sense possible

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munohlow · 1 year

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#legend of zelda #breath of the wild #loz botw #polls

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link-eats-rocks · 8 months

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And our final capture from the visit to Goron City 😌

#legend of zelda #legend of zelda icons #link icons #link loz #loz link #zelda icons #link #breath of the wild #botw icons #botw #linkeatsrocksicons

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ghirahimbo · 11 months

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In totk, every major town is in its own horror movie. The subgenres may vary, but it feels extremely unsettling.

Finally made it to Goron City this morning, and absolutely 🙃 There is a scale happening between them all from sad to creepy, and I couldn't quite place them yet until I have it all finished, but it's amazing how each town gets its own brand of Bad™️

#totk #totk spoilers #goron has potential to top the creepy scale #but that first moment walking into gerudo town... eek...

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totkdaily · 29 days

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Day 71: Shark Combat, Zora's Domain Healed, Link Sleepy

We unlock the fourth and final water pump for the Water Temple mid-morning.

It's been great weather the last few days, absolutely gorgeous skies. The last time I spent this long in Zora's Domain, it was perpetually raining. It's nice to see their beautiful architecture in the light.

We head back up to the central panel. Time to see what's under all that sludge.

It's just… a little guy?? But - oh. It has a shark.

We engage.

After a hard battle, the creature explodes into Gloom.

The last of the sludge dissolves. The waterfall runs clear. We did it.

Now, for Sidon to receive his birthright.

We approach the secret stone suspended at the altar of the temple.

A vision. Sidon's ancestor in that dream space, the Sage of Water.

She shows us her perspective of the Imprisoning War. And she shows us her conversation with Zelda afterwards. My Zelda. Warm, determined, golden hair glowing in the sunlight. This is my Princess.

Sidon accepts his birthright, and I welcome his avatar by my side with honour.

We head back to the domain - Yona will be worried.

King Dorephan is healed, the sludge disappearing from his wounds as it vanishes from the waterfalls of the domain. All is well once again in Zora's Domain.

And yet, things still change. Dorephan grants the crown to Sidon. He has proved many times worthy of it. He announces the domain's support against the Demon King and his marriage to Yona in the same breath - he never did do anything slowly!

After the announcement, we discuss what we know. He agrees that it was not truly Zelda who attacked Dorephan, and he agrees that we need to know more.

I wonder if Tulin or Yunobo have found out anything? It's been over a month since I left Goron City. And almost two since I left Rito Village. I should do some base-touching once I've said my goodbyes in the domain.

Muzu is headed to Lookout Landing - I'm sure I'll see him there. Khira and Chroma are now Queen's Attendants, and have been tasked with finding my Zora's helm - which is in a sky fish? Could it be the same sky fish which held the puzzle of the droplet before? I should find it, if only to stop Khira from bullying Chroma about it.

Tottika mentions a cave with a glowing rock - a shrine? It's southwest of here, in Ralis Pond Cave. I'll make a note.

Impa is here! She wants to know if I've seen the geoglyph in the Gerudo Highlands that looks like a person - I have not. I should go there next, anyway. Gerudo Town and Lurelin are on Purah's list of places in trouble, and I haven't been to either yet.

Yona is working with Jiahto to also find the Zora greaves - they think they might be at the waterworks. I suppose I can visit again.

Cleff ate a bright-eyed crab whole, and is obsessed with them now. He wants ten, but I only have three. Maybe one day.

Fronk's wife Mei went to a floating place for fish, somewhere across the East Bridge. Is this the same wife who once jaunted all the way to the Rutala River? I'm sure she'll be fine, but I'll keep an eye out.

Now, to get to that sky fish island, I should go… actually, no. I'm exhausted, and the sun has set.

I need to sleep. I head to the inn, but Kodah wants to tell me a story he and Finley found in an ancient manuscript. It sounds like there's a shrine at Tarm Point, southwest of here. That's nice. Finney and Sasan are already checking it out, so I'll leave it to them for now. Now… sleep.

#totkdaily #day 71 #totk #loz #zelda #legend of zelda

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sunset-peril · 16 days

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Khosha, Wife of Revali

As had become commonplace since the appointment of Hyrule’s Champions, the Flight Range of Rito Village had once again become alive with the chatter of five voices: the four Champions and Hyrule’s princess. Her appointed knight was also in attendance, the sacred sword in his possession, but he remained ever silent. He stayed near to his princess, providing comfort and protection to the young woman. The snow outside was beginning to taper off, but the party had yet to venture out of the small, interior area. All were still crowded around the small fire pit, except Revali, who stood aside fiddling with his aerial artillery.

"C'mon, Revali." Urbosa began. "Join the team for once."

"I think not, not only would that end distastefully with all of us around the fire, but I'm waiting for an arrival from the Village."

"If I may," Zelda began, pausing for a moment for an undetermined reason. "who is it we are expecting?"

"If the elder didn't change plans since I arrived here, which I'm not sure why he would have,” Revali replied with his ever-present self-confident tone and upward tip of his beak before his tone mellowed in its presentation. “then it will be Khosha, a songbird with a-” He allowed an audible pause in his voice, as if he was unsure how to describe the visitor. “-stunning admiration for the warrior arts."

The party took notice of Revali's seemingly uncharacteristic description, but were equally uncertain of what to respond.

"She sounds nice…" Daruk began, uncertain about the reply. “She a… friend of yours?”

“...You could say that.”

A silence fell over the Flight Range, one that felt almost awkward.

Revali returned to his weapons, Urbosa casting a glance at him before turning back to the fire to see her little bird move slightly both towards the fire and her knight; watching him discreetly squeeze her hand before letting go.

His face was emotionless as he did so, which normally wouldn't be much to note, but Urbosa and Daruk had seen how, in similar exchanges, he would let a smile or a nod shine through even if just for a moment. Through an exchange of their own, the two reasoned it was due to the increase of pressure and the amount of professionalism of the event.

The flap of wings began to be heard over the freezing wind, a Rito figure soon came into view, soaring into the Flight Range's side door with a sweeping wingspan and three balancing flaps. As eyes focused on the Rito, they found her beautiful. A thin braid of light teal feathers trailed down her right shoulder and chest, the back corners of her almond-shaped green eyes dark with gorgeous long eyelashes and her hay-colored beak, about half as long as Revali's, curled down to a pointed tip that was a peach-like hue.

"Khosha." Revali's voice was uncharacteristically soft. "Welcome."

A small chuckle was heard. "Revali." She looked around. “And Champions.” She lifted the medium-sized pot that she was gripping with her right foot. “I’ve brought a meal.”

Dishes were served and warriors were fed. Finally, Revali sat down near the group.

“It is wonderful to finally meet you all face to face. We don’t often interact with other tribes. Revali,” she nudged the bird. “Are you going to introduce me to your companions?”

The Champions were distracted from their meals for just a moment. Khosha must be a friend of Revali’s indeed, a simple villager should not have had the comfort level to ask Revali for an introduction.”

“Of course.” Revali set his bowl to the ground. “You are already aware of Princess Zelda, a Hylian from Central Hyrule. Sitting on her right is Princess Mipha, a Zora from Lanayru. On Zelda’s left is Link, Zelda’s bodyguard and the Hylian Champion. He’s actually a Wolfbred, from far east Necluda, but he was appointed as the Hylian Champion. Next to him is Urbosa, the Gerudo chieftain. And finally, Daruk of Goron City in Eldin.”

“My!” Khosha took the tips of Revali’s wings in hers. “You’ve become quite well-traveled, my dear.” She gestured softly towards Link. “I had heard the Kingdom reabsorbed your tribe. How has your tribe been adjusting?”

Link’s scarred lips pulled back slightly, but not enough to show any teeth. Zelda reached over his back and pulled him a little closer, as if to reassure him that the multi-colored Rito was not going to jump at him. The sudden touch brought a soft clicking sound from Link’s mouth, and he looked toward Zelda.”

“My apologies, Khosha. The Wolfbred can be… quite anxious. The people of my kingdom have not been as willing to accommodate them as my father and I have been, which only heightens their stress.”

“Ah, so the ban of the restraints has not changed public opinion much at all, has it?”

“No, sadly. In fact, I think my father’s decision to ban muzzling of the Wolfbred has only worsened opinions of him and his people; not to mention him being selected to represent Hyrule in battle. Pardon any offense, but I am surprised you know of such a matter.”

“I find none, Your Highness. That incident spread far throughout the kingdom. I believe almost anyone could identify the Champion by his scars alone.”

Link seemed noticeably more uncomfortable by this statement.

“That is… unfortunate for his safety, if Link might be identified so readily by such a permanent fixture on his body.”

Urbosa shuffled into a new position. “We’ve talked about the soldier boy, now what about you? You seem quite close to Revali.”

“I suppose now’s a good enough time as ever,” Revali mused from his piece of the floor. “Everyone, meet Khosha: my wife.”

~~~~

Evening came upon the village. Even though the snowstorm was long gone, the temperature continued to drop. After a long day of council, the Champions eventually ventured out to tour the Tabantha region, with an even more self-confident Revali soaring on the bygone storm’s remaining breeze. Of course he would act in such a manner. As fine of a warrior he was, a young Rito he remained. Last spring’s molt had taken her fledgling markings from her visage, but his remained as red, almost pink really, as ever. They too would be gone in the next few years, and she knew he’d continue to smooth over as they faded from his face. His personality had already mellowed significantly from their first encounters as fledglings. The Wolfbred warrior, Link, he seemed about Revali’s age. Perhaps that is why Revali had taken to such grandiose presentation after she’d been introduced to them. For any warrior, to be suddenly paired with a mythical warhound would be quite the shock to their ego, especially a perfectionist like her dear. Perhaps the two would grow close as they prepared for the Calamity’s arrival, close enough at least that Link’s presence would soothe Revali instead of leaving him with ruffled feathers.

The Princess and her warriors would be returning soon, as the sun would sink below the mountains before too long. After picking the Great Eagle Bow up from the bowyer’s shop and purchasing a full quiver’s worth of arrows from his wife, the fletcher, Khosha made one final stop near the village’s entrance, overwhelmed by thoughts from meeting Hyrule’s Champions that she must bring before her Goddess in order to find peace.

Oh Hylia, my mind is uneasy as I see the Champions appointed by your divine blessing gather. All of them… they have their peoples behind them… they have laid down lives that can still amount to so much… all for this cause.

Hyrule's princess, your incarnation descended, seems… ill of the mind. There is a darkness in her unnatural to her age. I suppose I should not be surprised. The Hyrulean Royal Family is broken. The King and Princess are fighting. The Queen has been dead for ten long years. I’ve heard rumors… rumors that the Princess was found in a silent rebellion with one of the knights… while I can only imagine that this is just a lonely girl crying out for love, I can’t help but worry on how far it may go… or how it may end… whether it warrant no consequences at all, whether someone will wind up in prison… or the bloodline extended…

…My apologies, Hylia, my mind wanders. Take my worries away from her, Hylia, she has an unimaginable share of other frets to manage on those small shoulders of hers. She has an entire world watching her every move, eagerly waiting for the divine glow of her birthright to illuminate an uncertain time. It is this power, this divine, glowing power, that causes the darkness in Princess Zelda, even more so than the lingering scars of her mother's death. She does not have access to it as her father demands. Your holy inheritance… a power intended only for goodness… yet it has caused only pain and sorrow for her and all in the castle… and possibly beyond.

Why do you leave her like this, Hylia? I know this darkness in her can be purged, I see it chased back like evil in the legends of old whenever she is presented with research… or she becomes newly aware of her knight's presence. That light in her eyes… I know it so well. It is the light of love. Love for relics of old, learning their forgotten purposes and watching them return to life… and love for him, Link the knight. It is his purpose to defend her, but I can see that she'll go out of her way to do the same for him. Seeing this light… it gives me peace for Hyrule's future…

Protect them, the Princess, the knight, the Champions… so that they all may return to their people from these ancient wonders of holy war… grant the Princess her power… the wear in her young body declares that she had proved rigorous dedication… the introduction to every battle and legend of old declares the need for the knight and the princess… As much as the Guardians and Divine Beasts will aid us in the fight to come, it is not them but her that is irreversibly needed. The legends dating back even to your original incarnation… The Divine Beasts aren't inscribed, but the Princess and Knight are. She needs this power, Hylia… why do you withhold it from her?

~~~~

Hyrule's Final Stand Masterlist

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