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maple-the-awesome · 9 months

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When Another Finds Out About His Crush Part 2/3

Part 1 || Part 3

Pairings: Sky, Time, Twilight x GN Reader

Overview: What happens when someone else in the Chain finds out about his feelings towards you?

Zelda Masterlist 💙 Fandom Masterlist

Sky is arguably one of the most passive Links in the chain. Laid back, often tired, and a ‘dripping optimistic’ (as Legend once complained), it would be easy to forget that he's the one who had gone face-to-face with a demon god before. His ability to be cheerful and kind is not something he takes lightly, though, so with that in mind, he's��reeeally trying to bite back his irritation right now and keep smiling.

Sky was in such a good mood earlier today - better than usual - because yesterday afternoon, the group had found themselves in his Hyrule - Skyloft, to be exact. That means that he's not only been temporarily reunited with his friends and the world he knows best, but that he also gets to show it all off to his new companions as well. Stretching the meaning even further, this translates to him finally getting to show you around his home!

He was overjoyed when you agreed to a personal tour of Skyloft. You'd get to see where he's grown up, meet his people, and (hopefully) fall just as in love with this little island as he is until you (maybe) decide you might actually like to move here yourself. That's why he promised to show you everything and to have a wonderful afternoon together. Just him, you...and Wind.

Oh, Wind...Why couldn't he be more like the others, so worn and drained of energy that the very last thing they wanted was to be dragged around an entire island all day with an unusually (and scarily) vibrant Sky who woke up before noon for once? Why couldn't Wind have just taken the hint when Sky tried to divert his attention, doing his best to turn down the young pirate's requests to tag along without downright saying 'no' because at that point, it would've gained suspicion from everyone else, tempting them to ask why you, out of all of them, get a private tour of Skyloft?

Don't get him wrong: Sky is by no means ashamed of his feelings. They're only natural especially when faced with such beauty. He just wants his confession to be on his own terms, not due to some likely inappropriate jokes that would come from some of the other boys' teasing (particularly from the likes of Legend or Warrior). In his mind, he's decided that you deserve something romantic and sweet - a tender moment shared between only the two of you so that you may understand his affections without any pressure to agree to them. It just...takes a bit of courage to finally plan that moment out is all, but he'll be sure to tell you some day...Someday when Wind isn't around to play the role of an awkward third wheel…

Wind clearly means well. He’s still young - a child even, some would say despite his objections. It isn't necessarily his fault that he's running around asking question after question about Skyloft or that he likes to call your attention to anything he's found that can be deemed 'cool'. It isn't your fault either that you answer to his beckoning, simply being the caring person that you are. Now, Sky would also argue that it isn't his fault for being so jealous right now, but if he truly believed that, there probably wouldn't be even a hint of shame in his heart like there currently is.

He's reeeally doing his best to keep positive. You look so adorable playing with a litter of remlit kittens. His only critique is that he wishes to be the one sitting next to you in the place of that pirate. Instead, he sits a few feet away, his chin against his palm as he huffs bitterly for what feels like the hundredth time, the childish side of him hoping you'll hear and inquire about what's on his mind, yet once again, you don't. You're too busy squealing over the fluffy little creatures who curl up on top of your lap for a nice nap. For Hylia's Sake! Even those little gremlins are luckier than him!

As a more rational person would point out, there's nothing actually preventing Sky from sitting next to you, after all, Wind is to your right and there's plenty of room to your left if he just moves the remlit mother laying there. A few scratches would be worth your company surely, but no, Sky would rather mope here alone, waiting rather (extremely) impatiently for the moment you stand to dust yourself off.

"Alright! I think the longer I sit here, the less strength I'll have to leave and I'm really looking forward to seeing the rest of Skyloft while we're here, so what's next, knight?" At long last, your glowing eyes finally bless Sky with your attention, your joyful smile almost instantly making him forget about his previous dread.

"We haven't seen my loftwing yet. Wanna meet him?"

He didn't think it was possible for your eyes to get any brighter, however he stands corrected, "Do I!"

There's no way Sky could ever let you down, so he wastes no time leading you to the edge of the island where he calls his loftwing. Perhaps due to the surprise of not having seen his master in months, the large bird appears swiftly, announcing his arrival with a loud 'squawk' before gracefully landing on the platform in front of you.

You're in awe, as Sky had hoped, unable to tear your eyes away from the shimmer of the loftwing's crimson feathers which are just as impressive as your friend has described to you. Unfortunately, before he can comment on your amazement, he’s reminded once again that the two of you aren't the only ones here. In seconds of the loftwing landing, Wind's presence is once again made apparent, "WOAH! He's so cool! This is how you get around these islands? I wish I had a bird to explore the sky with - I mean, I prefer keeping to the sea with the company of a good ship - but just to see what's above the clouds or to go over large mountains instead of around would be awesome!"

"Wind's right! To be among the clouds and see the world from a bird's eye view...What I wouldn't give to see that - Although, I'm sure you're pretty accustomed to flying yourself, huh Sky -?" Your smile disappears when you look back to your friend only to finally notice his pout. You don't think you've ever seen him look so upset aside from whenever he's 'woken up too early', "...Hey, are you alright? What's wrong?"

"Nothing..." He grumbles, however the worry never leaves you nor does the frown. It feels like a stab to his heart, reminding him of how unfair he's truly being today. Wind is his friend who’s merely expressing interest in his home and culture. It isn't like he's purposely trying to step on Sky's toes or be an annoyance, he's just having fun during one of their rare days off. As for you, you've been looking forward to seeing Skyloft ever since you first learned of it. You deserve to have a nice day to relax and fulfill your wish, not have it bittered because of Sky's selfish mood. He should be ashamed of himself for not valuing his time with you as it is, alone or not.

"...I can always take you flying, you know?"

"Really?!"

He nods, giving a more genuine smile than the forced ones he's worn previously today, "It sounds like we'll be staying here for the rest of the day. I'm sure we could squeeze in some time later -"

"- Why don't you just go now?" Wind quizzes with a perked eyebrow, making Sky flinch.

Despite deciding that he'll no longer be jealous or annoyed with the younger boy, he finds himself fearful over the idea of being stuck in the sky for hours with him. Yes, his loftwing can technically carry the weight of all three of you, but how awkward would that be? He'd much rather wait and find a moment to sneak off with you later than somehow become the third wheel on his own non-official date, "Uh, n-no. Not right now. I'm sure you two want to keep going with the tour, so -"

"- Actually I was gonna head back anyway," Wind mentions with a casual shrug, surprising Sky, "It's almost lunch and last time I was late, Wild gave me cold soup. Good soup isn't meant to be cold! Never again!"

Sky hesitates, perhaps expecting Wind to actually change his mind once he agrees to take you on a flight, however to his continued surprise, the Sailor doesn't.

"As much as I've been loving the tour, I wouldn't mind cutting some time off of it for a tour of the sky instead," You add, innocently fluttering your eyelashes in hopes that it will be a good enough argument.

“O-Oh? Then I’m sure going now would be fine. If Wind could update the others so that they don’t get worried looking for us?” A blushing Sky glances to the boy in question who eagerly nods and, for a second, the knight almost sighs aloud in relief.

Pleased with this, you happily turn your attention away from the two to pet the loftwing who leans into your touch, “You wouldn’t mind giving us a ride, right buddy? It would be greatly appreciated.”

Sky’s smile is hardly hidden as he lovingly watches you interact with his beloved loftwing, although he is quickly torn away from the moment by Wind’s sudden voice. He didn’t even realize the boy hadn’t left yet, "You know, just because I'm the youngest doesn't mean I'm blind, right? If you wanted to take them on a date, you should've just said something back at the Academy."

Sky stammers in response, whipping his head around to face the boy as he finally runs off while waving back at you both. Of course, Sky doesn't miss the mischievous smirk he wears, "Have fun you two!"

"’you sure you’re alright, knight?" You ask once finally joined by your friend, noticing the slight red to his cheeks as he wobbles on over, "If you aren't feeling well, we don't have to go today."

"No, I'm fine…'just not the biggest fan of pirates sometimes."

Time has encountered his fair share of mountains - both literally and figuratively, although the former applies here. He's hiked up the steepest of trails where his knees nearly touch the ground and has traced enough cliff edges for the fear to feel numb. Now, that doesn't mean he doesn't get tired or has ever stopped grumbling inside at the sight of such challenges, but he's learned to keep all complaints internal, after all whining has never fixed a problem...If only these boys would learn the same lesson.

There is no silence between the howls of the wind and the dramatic moaning that follows behind him. It's become apparent that not all heroes are as accustomed to trekking over slopes as he is, although that doesn't earn them much sympathy. They're all capable young men who have held their own against even the most fearsome of monsters, so he expects they won't be waving any white flags in defeat to mother nature.

Some are clearly doing better than others in the sense of swallowing their own misery. Wild leads a few yards ahead of the group, arguably faring the best even in comparison to Time which can be blamed on his adaptability gained from his own travels (or the climbing armor he currently wears; a mix of both?).

Warrior and Twilight follow closest behind Time. Every once in a while Warrior will mumble something about being hot to which Twilight will grumble for him to take off his scarf then. Sometimes they bicker beyond that, sometimes Warrior merely huffs and wordlessly adjusts his scarf to be looser around his neck. Although he doesn't spare the Rancher much concern, he seems to find joy in picking on the poor trio who heave behind them - Legend, Hyrule, and four - once making a smug comment about their 'short legs'. Legend would've no doubt whacked or thrown something at him if he wasn't so worn out at the moment.

Sky and Wind follow the three, seeming to lean on each other for support as they whine of burning lungs. While not fully out of their realm, the poor Hylians aren't as used to traveling in the same way as the others, often having the luxury of a loftwing or boat to carry them across the furthest of distances.

Then there's you...At the very back of the line, silent aside from your huffs and puffs, but struggling nevertheless. You’re completely out of your realm here, not having a background comparable to any of the boys, really. You've done hikes, you've walked around town, and maybe you've taken part in some races before, however none of those compare to the exact workout you're currently being subjected to.

You're tired, sweaty, and your legs shake with every step, threatening to collapse at any moment as they curse you for your resistance, but you say nothing of it aloud nor do you complain whenever looking up to see this damn mountain just keeps going and going...Truthfully, you're not sure how much longer you'll be able to drag yourself forward, however you refuse to admit defeat in fear of being thought any less of by the heroes you travel with. You refuse to be their burden and you refuse to act as any kind of annoyance to Time who's obviously wanting to reach the other side sooner than later.

Words can say a lot, but appearances can sometimes say more. It only takes one look at you to see your distress as you stray further and further behind the others, none of whom notice except for Sky who offers aid you brush off and Time who stops at the top of a slope to watch you sympathetically. He may hold the boys to high standards given their titles as heroes, however he understands that doing so to you, at least to the exact extent, would be unfair if not plain cruel.

“Let’s take a break here.”

A chorus of relieved sighs and praises to Hylia follow save for Wild who keeps marching onward until looking back in confusion once he finally notices the group is no longer following his example.

You’re particularly happy to be presented with the gift of rest. Unlike the others who at least have the decency to walk off trail and step into some shade, you collapse to your knees right where you formerly stood, taking a few heavy breathes there before shamelessly crawling under a nearby tree yourself.

“...How much further do we have?” You manage to ask Sky at last after regaining some of your breath. His hesitance is answer enough, causing you to groan.

“The trip down will be much easier than going up,” Time approaches, speaking before the knight can. You notice that he eyes you specifically, “...But we can take another break at the peak once we get there.”

“Thank you Goddesses!” Wind cries - literally, you think there might be tears in his eyes - and it seems that everyone else in the group shares similar thoughts as they relax a bit more, however to Time’s surprise, you no longer share their cheer.

You look down at your sprawled out legs and narrow your eyes as if they’ve done something terrible to you, “...We don’t need to take another break after this one. If we keep stopping, we’ll never reach the base before sundown.”

“Then we make camp on the mountain after going as far as we can in daylight. The terrain might be different than what we’re used to, but we’ll get by.”

“That wasn’t in the original plan.”

“I underestimated the distance we’d be covering. It’s not a massive overwrite -”

“- And it’s one you don’t have to make for my sake,” You click your tongue in annoyance when Time merely blinks at you in wide eyes; the face of mocked innocence that displays his surprise over you having discovered his true motives…as if they were ever that well hidden, “I’m not blind, you know? I can see what you’re doing - you all do the same. I’m not a seasoned traveler like the rest of you, I get it, but that doesn’t mean you have to treat me as such. I can keep up without anyone babying me or, Hylia forbid, thinking any less of me.”

Your last words are mumbled bitterly under your breath, yet Time picks up on the slight sorrow behind them which goes straight to his heart and softens it greatly.

"I don't think any less of you?”

"Clearly you do," You huff, although your eyes focus on the ground sadly as you complain quietly, "You ignored everyone else except for me. When they fall behind, you tell them to keep up. When I fall behind, you stop the world to wait. It’s ‘cause you think I can’t possibly keep up, isn’t it? …You pity me..."

Time frowns deeply at this, wanting so desperately for you to understand that isn't the case. It pains him greatly to hear you believe he looks down upon you. If anything, it's the opposite. Everyone else here has had life experience to train them. You haven’t. So what? That isn’t a bad thing, in fact he thinks it’s wonderful that you haven’t been subjected to the same horrors that he had grown up with. You are a kind and strong soul who deserves nothing but the best in life instead of being beaten down. The very last thing Time would want would be to cause you suffering of any form even if it’s just a bit of exhaustion on a simple hike.

"You weren't able to get up the mountain in one go. So what?" Warrior invites himself into the conversation with a roll of his eyes, his arms crossed over his chest as he makes his way over, “That doesn't mean anyone here is ‘pitying’ you. Failure is just a part of life as is struggle. We've all encountered it. Hell, you think I would've been able to go up this mountain before I joined the military? The first time I trekked up Death Mountain, I was just as worn out as you. I've had practice since then, and one day you will, too. The important thing is that you've pressed on without arguing, complaining, or giving up. You took on this challenge bravely despite knowing it would be difficult. Getting as far as you have is crazy impressive for someone who's never done it before.”

All of the boys are quick to nod along, some adding their own compliments towards your endurance which leaves you blushing in embarrassment yet feeling touched nevertheless. The only one not to respond immediately is Time. He finds himself jealous of this, wishing he could voice his inner thoughts and admiration towards you as easily as the others do, however when you glance at him - almost as if you’re waiting expectantly for him to add a comment of his own - he loses all courage which is replaced by a heavy thumping in his heart. And here he was starting to think he had outgrown this teenage awkwardness.

“You, uh…If anything, your strength is inspiring. Try not to underestimate it. I assure you, we haven’t.”

You hum with a nod, a bit of cheer returning through your smile; a glowing look Time definitely prefers on you compared to any gloom, “Thanks…Really. It means a lot.”

Soon, the group begins their journey again and like the others, Time is ready to move onwards without anything else said, however his attention is drawn to Warrior when he could’ve sworn he heard the Captain suddenly scoff from his side. The smirk playing on the blond’s face only proves that Time’s ears are still working just fine despite their age.

“That was a good save. I think you owe me.”

“Excuse me?”

“I must say, lifting (Y/n)’s spirits by complementing their skill provided a far less awkward outcome for everyone compared to having to listen to you deny and eventually stumble over a confession - despite how long one is overdue.”

“...What are you trying to imply?” Time narrows his eye at the Captain who is hardly fazed, in fact he fights the urge to roll his eyes when looking back over his shoulder at the older hero. He can try being as intimidating as he wants, but one look at the man’s dusted red cheeks is all it takes to have Warrior smirking again.

“Ooh, I think you know, Old Man - we all do. I mean, it’s not exactly science to find out why you’re so lenient on (Y/n) and only (Y/n). ‘can’t say favoritism is the most professional for leadership to take part in, buuut it’s nice to see you lighten up a bit and actually act human for once. ‘keep scowling all the damn time and your face will get stuck like that.”

"What are you doing?"

"Huh?"

"You keep fidgeting with your tunic. I swear, you're worse than Wars."

Twilight huffs at your comment, although that doesn't stop him from slapping more dust off of himself despite how doing so wordlessly proves your point, "That's a mighty hard bar to pass, wouldn't you say?"

"Yeah, you're probably right...But seriously though, what's got you so worried all of the sudden? You act like we're about to walk into Hyrule Castle. You're a ranchhand, for crying out loud! This is where you should feel most comfortable, is it not?" While others might think you're teasing him, he knows you well enough to catch that genuine concern held within your voice. He also knows you well enough to understand that you won't be as willing to drop this topic until it's resolved.

"This isn't just any farm we're headin' to. This is the farm."

"I don't follow," but then you give it some thought, skillfully connecting the dots between Twilight's behavior and the particular home your group approaches, "...Oh...'cause it's Time's place?"

He hums in confirmation as he fights back the urge to ask you about the status of his hair, although if he does that, you'll surely roll over laughing and never let him criticize Warrior's daily 'beauty routine' again.

"Twi, it's Time! Sure, he can come across as a little...stern sometimes, but he isn't Princess Zelda! Just don't kick your muddy boots up on his table or anything like that. Follow those small town manners I know you live by and you'll be fine."

"But -"

"- Besides, I'm like, ninety-seven percent certain that Time favors you out of everyone, so you have nothing to worry about -"

"- It's not that simple!" Twilight pouts, stopping dead in his tracks which consequently causes you to do the same, "...I wanna make a good impression here. It...means a lot to me that I do…”

You sigh before stepping closer to him. There, you take his hand gently and give him an encouraging smile, "And you will. Just be yourself, Twi. There's no shame in that. You're already a great guy, after all - a model, country gentleman, if I've ever met one."

Twilight ducks his head, his cheeks burning due to your words, although luckily for his sake, if you've noticed, you don't comment on it. Instead, your attention is stolen away by the others as the group finally arrives at your long awaited destination: Lon Lon Ranch.

Normally, it would make him beyond nervous (a rambling mess, at best) to have your hand intertwined so tightly in his as you excitedly drag him along, however today can be an expectation. To feel your support quite literally in his grasp means the world to Twilight and does wonders to calm him when it comes to enter the threshold of Time’s cozy little home.

Much to Twilight’s relief, you seem to hold some type of power when it comes to predicting the future. All he had to do was simply stumble out a greeting and Time’s lovely wife, Malon, was already overjoyed to accept him, especially impressed to realize he shares a similar farming background as herself. From there, the day continues at a relaxed pace that calms Twilight’s internal worries, although the passage of time nor the many chores the boys are offered to keep busy can’t be given too much credit for that.

While it’s nice to see his brothers let loose for a day and enjoy themselves in a more domestic atmosphere than some of them have ever had the delight of knowing, Twilight finds himself glued to your side the most, particularly keen on sharing this moment with you for embarrassing reasons he’d rather keep to secret for now. As far as you should be aware, he’s excited to be meeting the closest blood relatives he’ll ever know (at least for many years to come), not that he’s also giddy that you get to meet them as well.

Twilight’s here to make a good impression with his mentor, although he finds himself inclined to soak up all your reactions to Lon Lon Ranch, in fact, he’s a bit desperate to decipher just how you’d possibly feel about one day living at a place like this yourself. You seemed unfazed by the farm chores and you’ve openly expressed to Malon your jealousy of her peaceful home which is a far cry from life in the city. Perhaps you’re only being a kind guest, although Twilight won’t let go of the idea that you might just be honest with those words, truly desiring a more easy going atmosphere he’ll happily help you build if you’ll allow him.

Although the work has been simple and laidback, you aren’t alone in your tiredness by the time day turns into night. You had been yawning already after dinner, so Twilight’s rather surprised to see you still awake when he returns from his talk with Time, your sudden whispered voice amongst the darkness actually managing to startle him slightly, “You’re back. How’d it go? Was it all you hoped for?”

Tiptoeing around those who have already fallen asleep, Twilight finds his own sleeping back while only sparing a quick, awkward glance in your direction, “Yeah…”

“Oh, come on. What did you guys talk about? Don’t leave me in suspense.”

“Nothin’...Nothin’ important.”

Although tucked into his sleeping bag with his back turned towards you, he can hear you sit up straighter and can use his imagination to see your pout, “You seriously think I’d believe that? I’ll find out one way or another, you know. In fact, I’ll start bugging you about it again first thing in the morning, so don’t sleep too comfortably, you hear?”

“Goodnight,” Thank Hylia you have no way of seeing his boyish grin or burning blush given his position and the lack of light. When you huff and lay back down to finally sleep, you allow him to drift back into his thoughts, his mind too awake for rest as he reviews his previous conversation with Time and Malon.

It went well, officially extinguishing his prior worries once and for all. The feeling in Twilight’s chest was indescribable as he listened to their pride in him, something that hit much deeper than any other direct compliments he’s received.

As the conversation reached its end, he was sure there could be nothing else said to add fuel to those feelings, already feeling light as a feather when Malon awed with a slight giggle, “Oh, and your partner was beautiful. (Y/n), right? I’m afraid we didn’t get too much of a chance to talk today with all the excitement, but we’ll have to sit down for a private chat tomorrow. You know, in-law to in-law?”

“H-Huh? Ah, I-I’m afraid we’re not actually…together like that.”

"You're not? I could've sworn..." Malon had looked to her husband in disbelief, a point where Twilight would’ve expected his mentor to confirm his statement, after all, Time’s been journeying with you both for the last few months, so he should’ve known the truth, however he had instead shrugged with a hand placed on Malon’s shoulder.

"They're in denial still, dear."

"I suppose it runs in the family then for you boys to be easily intimidated,” Malon placed a hand on her hip with a slight shake of her head, “Link - My Link was the same way. Took it him ages to ask me to be his own -"

"- Hey now -"

"- In fact, it was me who had to take that first step,” She then stepped over to take Twilight’s hands, ignoring how bright red and caught off guard he was. Her smile - innocent yet holding a hint of mischief to it - is one he won’t forget anytime soon nor will he forget Time’s smirk in the background, “The way you look at each other doesn’t leave much to question, hon. Clearly you care for (Y/n) and it seems to me the feeling must be very much mutual given how you’ve been trailing each other all day, so try not to concern yourself too much with all those ‘if’s and ‘but’s. The sooner you leap over your nerves, the more time you’ll have to spend together. Hylia knows after everything you boys have been put through, you deserve all the happiness you can soak in.”

“It’s something you’ll regret if you let it slip through your fingers,” Time had added, pulling his wife to his side as they both smiled at each other lovingly.

Even now, their words echo in Twilight’s head and he finds it impossible to close his eyes without seeing you both in a similar position, you pulled to his side with the overwhelming feeling that everything is just right with the world so long as you’re together….‘wouldn’t be a bad thing at all…

#linked universe #link x reader #linked universe x reader #lu sky x reader #lu time x reader #lu twilight x reader #legend of zelda #reader insert #x reader

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thepinklink · 10 months

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Have some fluff ✨

The sun took it’s time in rising, and now seems to hang motionless in the middle of the sky, baking the earth—and nine certain Heroes of Hyrule—relentlessly.

“Goddesses, it’s hot,” Legend complains for the seven hundredth time in thirty minutes.

“Vet,” the Captain says from where he lays on the ground nearby. “I swear to Hylia I’d strangle you if it didn’t take so much effort.”

“Guys, please. Argue literally any other time.” Sky sighs, exasperated.

“No, let ‘em duke it out. I could use a distraction from the pain,” Wind says blearily, looking up from where he’s sprawled. “Fight, fight, fight.”

“Aren’t you supposed to be pumping your fist?” Hryrule asks. Wind shakes his head.

“Too hot to do both at once.”

“Ah. I’ll pump my fist and you can chant.”

“Good idea.”

Legend glares at the two as they begin their chanting, and then turns to Wars.

“As much as I’d love to fight someone right now, and as easy as it would be to beat up the Captain, it’s not going to be worth it.”

Warriors scoffs, but evidently can’t find in within him to really argue.

Hyrule and Wind’s efforts are quickly aborted, and the group falls into silence once more.

“We’re back!” Wild’s voice, way too cheerful considering the dire heat, announces his and Time’s return from the town. “And we brought a surprise.”

This piques everyone’s interest.

“Please say it’s hydromelons,” Winds sighs.

“Even better,” Wild says. He picks up the Sheikah slate off his belt. Everyone waits in suspense as Wild taps the screen, until he eventually extracts—

“Ice cream!” Legend, Warriors, Four, and Hyrule all shout, accompanied by visible confusion from Sky, Wind, and Twilight.

“What’s ice cream?” Wind asks, blinking blearily as the white substance in wooden bowls that Wild begins to hand out.

“Frozen milk, flour, and sugar.“ Wild supplies, giving him a bowl. “You’ve really never heard of it?”

“No.” Wind says curiously.

“I haven’t either,” Sky says. Twilight nods.

“I’ve heard of it, but I’ve never had it,” Hyrules says excitedly, eyes glittering as he is bestowed a bowl of the creamy treat. “I never had enough time or money to stop for some.”

Legend is halfway through his bowl before he speaks. “Haven’t had any of this stuff in years,” he mumbles.

“It makes sense you wouldn’t have any,” Wild says as he gives the final bowl to Twilight. “It’s made in Hateno because they can use snow right off Lanayru Mountain, but I mean…the Sailor lives on an Island, Skyloft…I have no idea if ice cream has even been invented on Skyloft. And from what we’ve seen of Ordon, you aren’t close enough to…anything cold, really.”

Twilight sniffs his, clearly growing more comfortable with this concept. He takes a bite, savoring the taste. He is the slowest to eat, his smile growing with every bite.

“That was amazing!” Wind declares, and those who look over find his bowl to be licked clean. “I want more!”

No one seems very willing to give up their portions. Most of them are well on their way to finishing theirs. Wind turns back to his bowl, once again licking the bottom for traces of the sweet flavor before Time takes pity on him.

“Alright, you can have the rest of mine,” the Old Man chuckles. It turns into a deep laugh when Wind pounces on the bowl hungrily.

There’s another minutes of silence as everyone finishes off the ice cream, and another moment of quiet afterwards as they all seemed to mourn the loss of the sweet distraction from the unbearable heat.

“Perhaps we can make more?” Time suggests. Everyone looks at him.

“We don’t know how to make ice cream.” Wind says. “Also, maybe I’m crazy, but the last time I checked, we don’t have snow. Or ice. Or anything cold.”

“Sure we do,” Warriors says. “The Veteran’s right here.”

“Ha ha,” Legend says. “Very funny.”

Warriors looks at him. “No, seriously. You have the ice rod.”

Everyone is silent. Legend scowls.

“The heat makes me slow, okay?”

“I’ll allow it. Now, Champion, let’s see if we have the ingredients…”

The following endeavors include an extra trip to town, which yields yet ore milk, sugar, and tabantha wheat, as well as several somewhat failed (but no less delicious) attempts at making ice cream. Reasonably distracted, no one notices the sun seems to have resumed it’s journey across the sky, until the heat begins to dissipate. Of course, by that time, most everyone is occupied by stomachaches of varying degrees. But if you were to ask any of them, no one would have any regrets.

#linked universe #linkeduniverse #lu legend #lu time #lu sky #lu twilight #lu warriors #lu wind #lu wild #lu four #lu hyrule #ice cream #plink writes

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tw1l1te · 2 months

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The Final Promise₊˚✩⊹

Chapter 7

Linked Universe x reader

Warnings: traumatic flashbacks, angstangstangst, obsessive thoughts if you squint

This chapter is heavier in terms of angst and trauma

₊˚✩⊹

Sky wasn’t sure what was happening with him. Its been a few days since… that moment, but neither of you had brought it up to each other. You didn’t seem angry or upset at him, but yet you barely said a word to him in the past week or so. He didn’t like it. Especially after seeing Time follow you outside and then both of you coming back flushed? He was getting worried.

Did he weird her out?

Did he say or do something to make you act this way?

He was hoping both of you would share a room tonight so you could talk about it, but of course you got paired with Wild and Twilight. It’s not like he didn’t trust them, he trusted them with his life, it was more so jealousy anxiousness about your lack of attention on him.

He lay on his back, squeezed between Hyrule and Wind, both of who were splayed out on the bed, leaving him scrunched up. He couldn’t sleep, which never happened.

He sat up, rubbing his hands on his face in frustration, either because of lack of sleep or conflicting feelings toward you.

Ever since he was young, he was told he was destined to be with Zelda, with Sun. She was perfect in every manner, and he genuinely believed it for years. After his quest, however, he started having doubts.

He felt like he was used to fulfilling this prophecy that he didn’t have a choice in. He had to save her and fight Demise, whether he wanted to or not. He knew it wasn’t Zelda’s fault but… he didn’t feel what he once did for her. He doesn’t know if he genuinely loved her before. He convinced himself he did… because he felt like he had to. It was constricting, the inability to truly love someone without the expectation of destiny.

But that’s when you came along.

Almost instantly, he knew it was you. You guided him the entire time. Your faint voice, always gentle and comforting, regardless of the situation he was in.

And when you joined the group? He fell faster than when he fell from Skyloft.

The group all assumed he loved Zelda, but that was far from the truth. He regarded her as a friend, childhood friend at best. You, on the other hand, were so much more.

And that was the problem.

He didn't know what to do or say. Being the chosen one and all, he wasn’t supposed to feel this way toward you, yet you kept pulling him toward you, harder each time. You were addicting.

Your aura, your voice, your eyes. Everything about you was so different and heavenly compared to everyone else. Even to her. He needed you.

He sighed. He’s definitely not going to be able to sleep now.

You wake up in black. You can’t see. Your eyes are wide open, but you can’t make out anything.

You try to move, but you seem to be… held in place. Not tied up or gagged, but contained. Contained within an invisible barrier.

“What the-”

“It’s an imprisonment spell. It won’t do you any harm, unless you struggle of course. But you knew that, didn’t you, Y/n?” Somebody asks. A man you presume by the deep tone, but you can’t make out much else.

“Who are you? Where am I? What am I doing-” “Easy, guide. Easy. We just needed to contact you, see what you were up to. You’re trying to go home, is that right? Not Hyrule, no, but a different realm. A completely disconnected dimension.”

“How did you…” you start, but no words follow.

The book, of course. You should’ve known this wouldn’t have been easy.

“If this is about that book of yours, I’ll give it back, I just want to go home.” you pleaded, shifting slightly in your suspension.

The voice chuckles, malice intertwined in its tone.

“I wish it was that easy, guide, but the whole point of me contacting you was for you to… guide us. Funny, isn’t it?”

You stay silent, waiting.

“Shame you haven’t got many answers at the moment, would’ve been beneficial for both of us.”

A breath hits your face.

“We’ll see you soon, Y/n.”

You awake with a gasp, body shooting up from the bed. You place your hand on your chest, feeling the pit in your chest.

Fucking hell, that was horrifying.

The sun’s rays were shining into the room, shining into your eyes. Squinting, you look away, noticing that Wild and Twilight were long gone, just cold spaces in place.

Why do they always do that?

Shaking your head, you get out of the bed, heading towards the mirror to fix yourself up for the day. You look at yourself in the mirror. Bright, red angry markings carved into your flesh, wounds fresh and streaming blood down your face.

You scream.

A second passes before you hear barreling footsteps and panicked voices running up the stairs, and trampling into the room, wooden door rattling on its old hinges. Everyone is talking, panicked voices asking you questions, frustrated voices arguing on how to help you, erratic moving and breathing and-

“Stop! Fucking STOP. STOP.” you yell, placing your hands on your ears, sinking to the floor. You couldn’t breathe. The walls were closing in on you. The voices were getting too loud.

StopstopstopstopstopstopSTOPSTOPSTOPSTOP-

You see someone kneel in front of you, voice quiet, asking you something.

“Y/n, hey hey, you’re ok. You’re safe. No one’s gonna hurt you. You’re ok.” Hyrule mumbles, not touching you, giving you physical space.

“Am I allowed to touch you, Y/n? I just wanna clean up those wounds before they get infected or hurt you more.” he says, voice soft.

You nod slowly. Your eyes are still glued to the mirror, too scared to look at anyone or anything.

As Hyrule is patching you up, no one says a word. At some point, Time ushers Malon downstairs, not wanting to overwhelm her with the gore and trauma. You barely blink as you look at yourself, dried blood caking the slashes across your face.

“...Y/n? Can you remember anything?” Wild asks, not hearing when he crouched next to you. Your throat closes up again. You kept getting flashes from your nightmare, on repeat.

Taking a shaky breath, “A voice, a man I presume from how deep it was. I think it might be the group I read about. Said they’ll see me soon.” you answer, short fragments as the flashes come back to you.

Wars was deep in thought, staring at the floor.

“Was there anything notable about their voice? Could you see anything? A motive maybe?”

“I-I didn’t recognize them… I don’t think, at least. It was pitch dark, and I couldn't see an inch in front of me. They might be trying to access different realities or interdimensional travel, at least that’s what he implied.” you mumbled, not particularly keen on discussing this further.

Time places a hand on Warriors’ shoulder, “Let’s let them get patched up, we don’t want to overwhelm them more.”

Time looks at you, giving you a worried glance. You were too worn out to say anything else.

“Does anything else hurt, Sugarplum?” Hyrule asks you.

You think for a second trying to feel your body, but your back beats you to it, causing you to hiss out in pain.

“Got it, let’s see that back of yours. Do you mind lifting up your shirt? Wild will get you a towel to cover yourself.” Wild nodded, quickly coming back with a clean towel. He helped you slip off your tunic, wrapping the towel around your front.

“Holy Hylia, Y/n…. What happened to you?” Hyrule rasped. It sounded bad.

“What? What is it. What's going on, Rulie.” you ramble, frustrated by the fact no one is responding. You hated when everyone got silent, leaving you in anticipation. It was killing you.

“Rulie. What. Is it.” Hyrule intakes a sharp breath.

“It’s pretty bad, Y/n. I’m surprised they haven't gotten infected. You might need some stitches, but I’ll try to avoid them by using some potions and magic…Twi, hand me my pack, would you?”

You zoned out the pacing of everyone, only being brought back to reality when Hyrule was making you take a healing potion. The thick, gooey substance was revolting, but you didn’t have much of a choice.

Sky held you as Hyrule focused on you, blue light shining onto your back. It was so painful. It felt like a searing hot iron was placed on your back, melting away your flesh.

You screamed into Sky’s chest, tears streaming down your face. It hurt. So, so much. Nothing like you’ve ever felt before. You held onto Sky for dear life, begging it to end.

“Shh, I got you Songbird. I’ve got you. You’re doing so good, you’re almost done. You’re being so so strong, It’ll be over soon ok? You can rest soon.” Sky consoled you, but you felt part of it was to console him too.

Finally, the pain subsided. The blue light faded away, Hyrule pulling his hands away from you slowly. You were still leaned into Sky while Hyrule bandaged you up, too out of it to care whether or not anyone saw your bare chest. Hyrule had to lightly tug the gauze to make sure it soaked the blood, but not tight to the point of constricting airflow or causing extreme pain.

As you came back to your senses, you noticed a few of the other’s had gone, most likely to give you privacy and not overwhelm you. Wars and Sky were still here, Hyrule still behind you, adjusting your bandages.

“Bring her back to bed, make sure to not put any pressure on her back. She’s gonna be really sore for a few days.” Hyrule says, putting away the supplies thrown about the floor. Wars just leaned against the wall, watching as Sky carefully tucked you into bed, mumbling something into your hair that he couldn’t hear.

Hyrule turns to Warriors “Let’s leave her be, she needs rest. We’ll take turns watching her, Sky will go first.”

Reluctantly, Wars follows Hyrule out of the bedroom, but not before giving you a worried look, pursing his lips together. He heads out and softly shuts the door, footsteps fading away.

₊˚✩⊹

#yandere linked universe #yandere linked universe x reader #linked universe x reader #link x reader #linked universe au

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bokettochild · 3 months

Note

For suffering in silence in the Febuwhump list... maybe something with Sky? He's very quiet about things that actually are bothering him, I think. It'll be a good writing challenge for you since you struggle with him lol!

Well, after far, FAR too long, I finally have it done. I don't love it, but here we go!

Wordcount: 2,244

Rating: Mature - for references to Cia

Summary: Sky's always struggled with visions, but now he's facing a whole new flavor of them, and he can't do anything about it.

It starts with one night.

They’ve only just started to get to know each other, he and these other Links. He knows that Twilight is a kindly farmer and Time is a stern old man. He knows that Legend is rough around the edges and Warriors is as polished and clean cut as the fancy stones some women on Skyloft wear. Four is a closed book, but full of knowledge, but unwilling to share. Wind is a light breeze that plays and dances and laughs like his namesake. Hyrule is like a sunbeam, impossible to catch or study, fleeting but warm.

And then there’s Wild, and of course there’s no easy way to describe Wild, but he’s a good kid.

They’re all interesting people, although all guarded on the true nature of their lives, something he can neither blame them for nor claim not to be himself. They’ve seen things, and when he wakes up one night, shuddering and panting, he begins to understand just what those things are.

A dark room. A hidden corner. He hadn’t been quite sure what he was seeing, but he’d realized quickly that it was another dream, or more accurately, another nightmare. There was a little boy curled up on the floor, hands pressed fast over his mouth to cover panicking sobs. He’d found he couldn’t turn or look around, his vision trapped on the child, but he’d known, through ways he’s given up trying to name, that there was a presence in the room other than the small child. There were several powerful, dangerous presences, and the boy was hiding from them.

He’d wanted to move to the kid’s side, to throw an arm around trembling shoulders and hold his sword tight in his hand, offering protection, but it was a dream- a nightmare, and he was helpless to do anything as the little one had started, some noise or action from something out of Sky’s vision alerting the kid of something.

He’d caught a flash of violet eyes, wide and bruised with lack of sleep.

One small hand had fumbled at the ground, and it felt like the floor plunged out from beneath him as he saw the Master Sword gathered up by the tiny figure, the blade as big as his whole body. He’d watched, transfixed, as the kid scrambled to his feet, sword held out in front of him towards a threat Sky still couldn’t see.

Distantly, there was a whisper, Fi’s familiar voice sounding, although the words were lost to him as a magic blast flew towards the child, casting a light pink hair and freckled features.

He starts awake just as the blow struck home, a cry on frozen lips as he comes aware on his bedroll, sweat soaking his shirt as he forcibly rolls himself over. The stars shine clearly overhead, and when he tries to shift himself, move his hands, his arms, he finds that he can once more. He can grasp the sword lying next to him, and while she doesn’t answer as he whispers a soft “what was that, Fi?” she does pulse softly, faintly, with a weak light.

He pulls himself up, ruffling the back of his hair where it’s become matted with sweat, and turns his eyes over their camp. Warriors is on watch, leant against a tree and whistling softly, but the man either hasn’t noticed his stirring or else has disregarded it. He appreciates that, because if it was Groose or Zelda here right now, they’d be asking what woke him up, and he’s not sure how to describe what he’d seen. How does he put into words the sheer terror in those twilight eyes? The desperation at the kid had pulled himself up and drawn a sword bigger than he was?

He doesn’t know what to do with it, and sleeping again is impossible, but he lies down again all the same, hoping to at least allow his body to relax as much as it can between now and the morning’s work.

A gathering of children greets his eyes the next time he falls into slumber. Five or so young boys all creeping through an open chamber and towards a great sword set in its center. Again, he has no context, but there’s something deep inside of him that sees the blade and knows within an instant that it is charged with dark magic, is dangerous, ought not be touched. Yet, the boys all tease and laugh at each other, daring their friends to try and pull the blade.

One tries, and fails, before turning to another, a boy with eyes as dark blue as the midnight sky, and daring him.

There’s no markings, and dark hair is well kept and trimmed, but there’s a set to that jaw, a look in that eyes that’s familiar.

The boy steps forwards, hands closing on the hilt of the sword and pulling.

Dark magic explodes from the blade as it comes free, like a sealing magic that has been broken, releasing some great evil that shoots out over the room drowning his vision for a moment as the boy holding the sword screams in terror to his friends, names sounding that he doesn’t catch. Sky tries to dart over, to catch hold of the child, to shout and tell him to drop the dark blade, but again, he’s frozen, left to watch as another figure emerges out of the darkness and catches hold of the boy.

A skeleton clad in armor, one that draws a terrorized shriek from young lungs as the kid flails away, midnight eyes wide as he seeks to escape, only to be dragged and pulled through the storm of dark magic that sends sand flying up and leaves Sky blind to what happened to the other children.

When at last the cloud clears, there is nothing. There are no buildings, no sword, no children and no skeleton warrior, just the boy standing out in the desolate sands, tears in his eyes as he drops to his knees and wails a deep sorrow out to twilight skies. The piercing cry reminds him of the few times he’s heard Wolfie bay to the sky or into the woods, usually to call to their younger ones and summon them back to camp, but sometimes for what seems to be no reason at all. Legend says that when wolves bay, that they do it as a call to family. No one answers this little one’s cry though, and again, he can only stand and watch as a bleeding heart is poured out into the empty sands.

When he wakes, there are tears on his own face. He can only wipe them away and turn over, confusion at the foreign sadness leaving him unable to return to slumber.

By the third time, he’s got the idea that moving or trying to call out to the child who wanders through strange, twisting passages isn’t someone he can help. He can only watch as a little wooden sword is used against a great, terrifying spider of a creature. Can only stand and watch the blond-haired child, older than the one from his first vision but much younger than the little wolf from his second, fight his way past monsters and danger before exiting out into a grassy, peaceful looking place. He hopes, even despite his heart crying that it won’t be true, that the warm, peaceful aura of the place he now sees is a sign that all will be well for the child now; that peace is found.

As feared though, he is wrong. The child turns to face a great tree, one that shudders and creaks despite the lack of even the slightest of breezes. The great tree speaks, in a voice that rumbles with all the might of the earth, yet is as warm as a down blanket, bidding farewell to the child, telling them of danger, of horrors, of responsibility.

He watches as it gives a final shudder before falling still, and sees the boy’s face crumble, tears sparking in eyes as blue as the little fairy that hovers at his side.

This time, when he comes awake again, he can only lie still and stare out into the world.

It’s confusing, stressful, frustrating in ways he can’t put words too. He knows these children, yet he can’t name how. The boy with twilight eyes and the little wolf crying alone on the dunes, the fairy child and all the others that follow. One night it’s a dark haired lad who slinks through a ruined land with the same wariness he sees from Hyrule, another it’s a long-haired child training with a sword that’s too big for him against men who hold nothing back.

They’re all so young, yet every vision shows him dark sufferings, missions, grief. The loss of an uncle, or a friend, of a home. Attacks, torture, enemies that make him start awake before he can even see the result of the battle, much less the beginning. And he can’t tell his brothers about these things, because how would he describe them? He's seen a child who looks like Legend but a decade younger, who carries the Master Sword like it’s a part of himself, despite it being bigger than him. Who faces monsters and threats that chase and corner and harm, and who watches perceived friends turn against him to seek his life. Can he tell them that he’s watched a boy with features too much like Twilight’s lose his whole world and wander into darkness, time and again, guided only by a twisting shadow and a long dead warrior? That there is a little boy with a fairy that trekked across Hyrule just too... to die, to fight, to win and yet lose in the same breath? The fate of that child is so unclear!

There are so many things he sees, things that make his own ventures seem tame in comparison, if only for the fact that he’d been a man when he’d faced them, unlike the children he sees thrust into horrors.

A night within an old abandoned and ruined tower teaches him the truth though.

Hands, dark and seeking, taking despite cries against. Blood red lips and eve bloodier eyes, full of lust. Cries that go unheard, begging and pleading. He wakes with a retch and heaves as the remains of that night’s dinner spill onto the ground beside him, shivers trailing over his whole body. He was spared feeling the touches, but the sight of it all has left him shaken and choking for breath, and when Warriors crouches beside him, blue eyes full of so much worry where a moment ago he’d seen them filled with fear, all he can do is sob.

With the other visions, he can doubt, but this one leaves no room for that. It was Warriors he saw and watched and cried for. And if this time is Warriors, then it means that the figures from before may very well be the brothers who they resemble.

Was Legend so small when he first drew the blade? Was Twilight so broken when he wandered to Ordon? Is Hyrule’s detest for blood drawn from his fear of the sacrifice he’s almost become? And the child in the woods, who does he become? He knows, by the fairy and those blue eyes, that he’s seen the boy older, almost by a decade, and he's watched him win and lose and die and live, but he doesn't know him. The fairy-boy has Twilight’s jaw but Legend’s stance, has Wind’s confidence and yet is foreign despite all.

Not knowing though, doesn’t change what he’s seen.

He's seen his brothers’ lives, by forces he cannot control. Witnessed in his slumber their greatest hurts and defeats, and while he can guess there has been some joy or at least peace in their lives by the fact they, unlike he, have not been driven to madness by what they witness, they still have faced so much. So many of them started so young.

And the words of the demon lurk in his head as he watches. As he sees Legend, so much younger and brighter, be chipped away to become the rough thing they know. Watches Four, so confident and sure, be destroyed and remade until he clutches his pieces tightly, closing in and shutting out the prying eyes that seek to read his gravest secrets. He watches the captain be tossed and thrown, broken and rolled by the waves of life until he is the polished thing that walks before them, glittering and strong, but only through the greatest of hurts.

He watches, and he’s forced to only stand, to stare, to wake with a cry or a wretch or, on the worst nights, unable to so much as think, only recall.

He avoids sleep as best he can, but going without leads to nothing but trouble. Embracing it only backfires with eth worst of visions though.

He’s not sure if it’s some curse of the goddess, or some attempt to aid him in knowing those who’ve gathered around him to join together in a fight against evil. Whatever it is, it leaves him aching for peace, for one night without watching the brothers he’s coming to love face hell made for them personally by heaven.

He is not granted so peaceful a night.

#asks and answers #linked universe #linkeduniverse #lu sky #febuwhump #febuwhump 2024

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lxnlxnranch · 14 hours

Text

kisses in public

>> includes: sky and four a/n: sorry for being gone for like, a year, but I'm back!

Sky

As affectionate as the Hero of the Sky is, there is almost nothing that will stop him from showing his love and adoration to his beloved. There is no particular reason as to why he kisses his significant other in public, he just does. He’s a romantic at heart, and if he wants to show you how much you mean to him and you both happen to be in public- well, that is no issue to him! Because of this though, his kisses tend to be incredibly impulsive and rather out of nowhere. He feels like the sharp sting of wind on early spring mornings, the warmth of downy soft feathers leaving you gasping for air.

It was such a gorgeous day on Skyloft. Hylia had finally graced your group with a world that was fairly calm in comparison with all the others, and there was something simply whimsical and fairytale-like about being so high up in the sky. This wasn’t your first time on the floating island- you sincerely hoped it wouldn’t be your last- and the layout of the sanctuary was easy for you to remember. While the Chain were busy recounting Sun of their tales, you’d decided to peruse the Bazaar and restock on much needed supplies.

“Y/N!” Your name rang through the thin air, and you looked much more ahead of you to the source of the voice. The potions seller waved her hand through the air, a wide smile on her face as she beckoned you over.

“And good afternoon to you too, Luv,” you stopped just short of the counter, gazing at all the brightly-colored liquids scattered over the table. You swung your bag to the front of your body, prying out empty bottles as Luv continued to talk.

“My my, you’re almost here as often as poor Link! Now tell me dear, what would you like this time? I have a flash sale for the weekend, and everything is twenty percent off.” She gladly reached forward and took the glass bottles off of your hands, setting them on her workbench as she started to make preparations.

“Just some health potions this time, I’m afraid.”

“Oh not to worry my dear, anything for one of my favorite customers.” And that out of the way, your conversation immediately turned to the local gossip of the town. You couldn’t say you weren’t interested, and before you knew it you’d spent nearly an hour just at her stall. But what could you say? Learning that the people before you still had squabbles, embarrassing moments, and more, was grounding in a way. Hylians were always Hylians, with their problems and virtues and vices, you were all still the same, no matter how many centuries had passed.

Unbeknownst to you however, was the fact the Chain was already done with their debrief. Sky knew where you’d be, and he’d started looking around the Bazaar already, and there was just something different this time around when he did so. When his eyes fell upon your form, he swore he could feel his heart melting inside his chest. There was something he couldn’t quite describe, seeing you talk with his people. The way you leaned forward to listen to Luv’s conversation better, the way she genuinely seemed to enjoy your presence and dropped all pretense of wanting to sell. Fi hummed gently against his back, and he snapped out of his reverie. He wanted to see this more. He wanted to see you feel at home with the rest of his people, and maybe he should start looking for a ring? A brilliant smile made its way on his face, and he weaved through the crowd to make his way over. It was Luv to notice him first.

“Ah, Link!” She looked over your shoulder and waved, one bottle of half-filled potion in her other hand. You whirled around only to be met with lips pressed up against yours, the faint taste of pumpkin and wind reassuring you everything was alright. Before you could reciprocate, Sky had already pulled away, a scarred hand resting on the small of your back. “Hi Luv, how have you been? I feel like it has been ages since we last spoke!”

And as much as surprise kisses were common, you were still annoyed with the fact you were never ever able to kiss back. Sensing your distress, your hero turned and gave you a small peck on the corner of your lips and- “Goddesses Sky, that’s almost worse, you little rat!”

Both their laughter echoed throughout the market, and as annoyed as you were, you couldn’t help but join in.

Four

Four was never truly the type to enjoy public displays of affection; he always found them cheesy and embarrassing. Well, that was until he met you, of course. Now he could understand. As something as simple as holding hands and/or as exuberant as kissing in the busiest hours of the market, he now understood that love had no qualms about time nor place. This isn’t to say he didn’t like privacy. He was much more partial to subtlety: a kiss to your knuckles here, a peck to your temple there. His kisses were gentle, but they never betrayed how much love he held just for you.

The Hero of the Minish, the Hero of the Four Sword, the Hero of Light. Four wasn’t one for titles, but they followed him wherever he went. His people excitedly called his name, waved as he walked past stalls, threw him thankful smiles or reverent nods his way. He’d normally be alright with this type of attention, but not when he’d lost you just ten minutes before in the hustle and bustle of town.

“Y/N?” He called out, easily weaving in between crowds of people, his head swiveling this way and that to try and catch a glimpse of your cloak. Nothing. He pursed his lips, exhaling through his nose. You were both going to be late for dinner at this rate, and he did not want to be on the receiving end of Time’s disappointed stare. Just how in the world did you two get separated? You were looking at the same stall for the Goddess’ sake, he swore you were right behind him too. His foot tapped impatiently on the ground, nervousness starting to crawl up his spine. He doubted you were in danger, but there was still that slim chance-

There was a small bit of pressure on his pant leg, and Four was too experienced to not know what it was. He looked down by his left foot, and leaned down as a small smile graced his features. “Hello, my friend. Is everything alright?”

The Minish waved their arms in greeting, gracefully stepping onto the hand Four offered them as they sat down in the middle of his palm. “Hello Link! Y/N asked us to find you, they seemed rather lost when they stumbled on us.” And oh, wasn’t that a relief. He felt a breath he didn’t even know he was holding escape his lungs, and he straightened back up as he cupped the Minish with both hands. “Thank you, my friend. Would you lead me to them? I’m afraid we might be late for dinner.”

The Minish nodded, and they were on their way.

Soon enough, he was guided to a small bundle of trees just off the main market, the sunset washing everything in a beautiful orange glow. You were sitting at the base of the tree, your knees pulled up to your chest as multiple Minish ran across the tops of your knees, crawling up your hands and arms to braid various flowers into your hair. You could almost die with how cute they were, and you didn’t have the heart to tell them no as they started building a braided flower crown atop your head.

“There you are,” Four made his way to your side, opening his cupped hands by your knees. The Minish gently pat Four’s thumb and climbed out, joining their brethren in decorating your head. You couldn’t move much or risk throwing the cute creatures off your head, so you simply raised your hand in greeting.

“Hey. Sorry for getting lost, I swore to myself I’d be right back. That turned out rather well, I’d like to think.”

“It did, didn’t it?” He hummed in response, making sure the spot next to you was clear of Minish before he sat down. And here, with flowers cascading through your hair and Minish chattering away in the sunset’s dying glow, he was lucky enough to see the most beautiful sight in the world unfold right before his eyes. The hustle of the market was slowly quieting as more and more people started closing up shop, and as much as he’d love to stay here until nightfall…

“We ought to go back,” he gently took your hand in his, rubbing his thumb over your knuckles as he brought them to his lips. He kissed each individual one, and you could feel the heat radiating off your cheeks, and it was only a little consolation that you could see his own cheeks turn red. “We’re already running late as it is.” “Would you like to explain that to our little friends?” You tilted your head only a centimeter up, pouting your lips to motion to the frankly too adorable creatures sitting on your head.

And as much as you were both scared of Time’s signature disappointed look…

Four sighed, though there was no hiding the smile on his lips. It was in that moment you knew you’d won him over. He intertwined his hand with yours and leaned forward to press a gentle kiss to your cheek, and he felt his heart squeezing almost painfully in his chest. Goddesses, he loved you so.

“Alright, alright, but you’re going to be the one explaining this to Time.”

“Hm,” you hummed, gently squeezing his hand. “I think I’m alright with that.”

#this writing is like a year/year and a half old lol #got inspired to come back to this blog so #here we are!#lu x you #lu x reader #linked universe x reader #linked universe x you #sky linked universe #four linked universe

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skyyknights · 9 months

Note

biggest thoughts on skyward sword link?

aight. get ready. because I have many thoughts about him.

So, first off, yes, he is a silly sleepy doofus of a sky boy who is extremely soft and adorable and deserves everything. But, while that take is 100% correct and should not be overlooked, he is also a feral rabid gremlin who can and will tear your face off with his bare hands if the need arises (such as if you threaten Zelda).

(I mean. there's your proof right there...)

Now, a lot of people think that Link from Breath of the Wild is the strongest/toughest/etc.

Politely, I disagree.

So then who is the strongest? None other than Sky Link.

Let's start with the basics. He might not have been raised on a farm or in service as a knight for the royal family, but at the same time, he's attended an academy specifically for training knights his entire life. At the start of the game he can lift and throw massive barrels, is stated and shown to be an excellent climber, is a natural at Loftwing flying and at catching Zelda when she throws herself off of Skyloft, and is already excellent with a blade. Later on he can lift and throw small boulders, and push large wooden crates and metal carts.

But like I said, that's just the basics.

Sky Link also fights/defeats the Imprisoned and Ghirahim three times. Both grow stronger with each battle, but he defeats them nonetheless. Ghirahim at first sees him as just a silly little child who can't possibly defeat him; he quickly learns Link is anything but that and in all three of his fights becomes so humiliated that he rages at Link and on two occasions leaves instead of allowing himself to be defeated further. "You think I can't defeat you? You think I can't win? What are you, boy?" he asks in the final fight. He's afraid of Link, because Link is too powerful for him. He's the silly soft sky child, but three times now he has claimed victory over the Demon King's right hand man.

Then there's the Silent Realms, of which Link goes through four. Each one becomes increasingly more difficult and dangerous, and yet he completes all of them. Not only that, but he finds each Sacred Flame required to strengthen Fi and ends up forging the true Master Sword. He also earns and wields the full Triforce, which only a tiny handful of other Links have done. He also survives getting crushed by boulders on numerous occasions and is imprisoned (probably with a concussion) but escapes; battles a massive army of Moblins, Stalfos, and Bokoblins; and with each Silent Realm, his spirit grows, signifying he is not only strong physically, but mentally.

Anything I'm forgetting, besides the fact that Hylia specifically chose him to be her hero and defeat-

Oh yeah.

Demise.

Yup, in case anyone forgot, Sky Link kills Demise, the literal embodiment of evil itself, the original villain from whom Ganondorf comes. Demise is the most powerful enemy in LoZ who not only destroyed Hylia, but nearly all of the Surface as well; according to him, humans cower and quake upon seeing him; none but Link have ever dared to even consider standing up to him. Fighting Link, to Demise, is a casual, lighthearted ordeal where he believes he can take it easy before going off and destroying the world.

But yeah, that doesn't quite happen.

In the end, Link defeats Demise utterly on a battlefield of water and lightning, charging his own blade with it and striking the killing blow. Demise perishes and is absorbed into the Master Sword, directly after threatening that his hate, never perishing, will follow Link and Zelda throughout time.

And there you have it. Sky has just defeated the original incarnation of a cycle of endless hatred.

(while looking like this 90% of the time. he is babey. but stronk and dangerous babey who could kill u with a look).

#sorry my thoughts went all over the place #i could go more into him but I think you were just wanting to know about what i said in the tags of a recent post #about how i think hes the strongest? i think thats where you were going #if not lmk #skyward sword #asks and answers #anon #legend of zelda #sky link #link

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spaceless-vacuum · 1 year

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Question? How would a Yan!Link handle having a Darling who not only chose him willingly but actively smothers him back? Not to the degree of a Yandere but rather if he comes home injured or gets hurt and they're traveling together he finds himself in mandatory bed rest unless they deem it light enough an injury? He has a cold and gets dragged in the house and shoved into bed while they go make soup. They refuse to let him do anything for them while hurt and are totally not against using cuddles as an option to keep him down. Will capitalize on his Yandere tendencies. Aware of those tendencies and tries not to upset him but also knows how to use them to their advantage?

Or how about this? Actively chasing others off by making it known he's taken? He won't have to pull his Darling into his lap if they make themselves comfortable there first. His Darling is completely down with owning up to the fact that they have one of the most dangerous people in Hyrule willing to do absolutely anything for them and he's so sweet and gentle for them and good looking to boot.

Most pleased Yandere ever I'd imagine.

....bonus? They spend their free time trying to fluster him somehow. How easy is it? Does it work? Who knows.

Oooh I think this is so much fun and would go differently with the different heroes. I've decided to use this as an opportunity to write for the lu au. hope you don't mind!

Sky would absolutely adore this and would take it as a chance to gain more cuddles from you. He is already very big on spending a lazy day together with you (assuming all of his work is done) and the idea of receiving more love and attention is one that makes his heart skip a beat with joy. His idea of a relaxing summer day is taking it easy or flying around Skyloft. Two things he can do if wounded or with a cold.

Even if you do try to coax him to stay inside all day he needs a walk for fresh air and it can't be helped. The man doesn't like to be cooped up all the time and will carry you out the door with him if he needs to. As long as you're with him he's as buzzed as a bee.

The action of you putting yourself into his lap before he does makes him blush so badly. Public displays of affection in front of others, especially when he knows you're doing it to claim him gets him in his feelings. He's practically kicking his legs but to do so might kick you off of his lap which he won't do.

The fact that you want others to know you love him makes his heart skip a beat. There's no way anyone is going to lay a hand on you after that. He has a way of making sure that everyone knows you're taken with just a look and with the fact you're always hanging off of his arm he doesn't have to do too much. Which is fine by him. Less work for him means more time to spend by your side. It's easy to forget he has a darker side sometimes as he's just so sweet and carefree until pushed in the right (or wrong) direction.

Even if he finds out or just knows about how you're ‘using’ him, Sky doesn't care. In his mind it isn't an issue at all because he isn't being used if he's ok with it and you both enjoy the outcome. It's rare to find him getting upset at your cute demeanor but sometimes he does have a rare moment where it all slips and he feels like he needs to take a ride.

It’s really, and I mean really easy to get Sky flustered. Any form of public affection where others can see it and are actively looking makes him blush so hard. He doesn't get embarrassed often but he does have friends who like to tease and poke fun. Word gets around in villages quickly (especially about the hero) and you being called Link’s is something he never gets used to. It makes him feel like he's on cloud nine when he overhears the talk on the town. As long as no one says anything bad about his partner.

#eye write #yandere link x reader #legend of zelda x reader #yandere linked universe #lu au #linkeduniverse #sky x reader #ask and answer

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smilesrobotlover · 2 months

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skord skord?

Ah yes, another overhated Zelda game that is in my top three. I’ve played this game on the switch and I will say, it’s so much better than the Wii, so if you haven’t played it yet, try to play it on the switch.

Anyways this is one of the few video games that have made me cry. The story is so good and it makes me SUPER emotional. The Link is probably one of the few Links with so much personality poured into him, his relationship with Zelda is super sweet and fun, and the characters and world of skyloft is incredible. The side quests for gratitude crystals is not only wholesome but gets you closer with the residents, so it feels like an island where you grew up with these people. There’s so much to do in this game and I just… AGH I adore it to DEATH.

Groose is easily one of the best characters in Zelda with his incredible development. He’s so complex and insecure about himself and seeing him work through his issues in the game and become good friends with Link is so incredibly wholesome to me. Impa is a strict but sexy awesome character who’s entire story and character is insane to me.

And Fi… she is such an overhated character. Link in this story is super animated and full of personality meanwhile Fi is cold and distant, and these two complement each other so well. And even though she seems to lack personality, she has some moments here and there where she’s being a character, and those moments are amazing. Her saying goodbye to Link affected me more than Midna because you could just feel the bittersweetness. This character is with you through every game with the master sword. And despite not feeling emotions, Fi was happy with Link, and she truly cared about him, just like he cares about her. And I sob everytime. I love Fi she’s one of my favorite companions ever and I wish she wasn’t hated on so much because she doesn’t deserve it.

And let’s not forget Ghirahim, one of my fav characters of all time. He’s such a fascinating and well written villain who rivals Link perfectly! And most bosses in this game are relatively easy to me. But Ghirahim is one of the few bosses that is very hard. He’s not one of those villains that talk a lot of crap and then die in five seconds. He’s a challenge! You’re definitely inexperienced and he’s clearly just toying with you in the beginning! He actually works hard against you in this game instead of sitting around, and the final battle with him, he is truly giving his all, regretting not killing you in the beginning. When he said “what are you?” To Link after being defeated is INCREDIBLE. There was actually a character analysis about him and Groose so I really can’t talk about their characters without talking for five years lol. But yeah, Ghirahim is a GOOD character. And he actually succeeds in what he’s doing! He revives his master! That’s how you know that he’s a genuine threat! Gosh he’s so good

Now for the flaws, alas. The sky isn’t the best? The loftwings are underutilized (Link’s loftwing isn’t even named :/), the world is very small and limited (except for Lanayru, they put all their good ideas into there fr), and there’s a lot of fluff. Like hunting down the song of the hero is just unnecessary to me. Faron is an idiot for not trusting you despite saving her life, then Eldin is just, completely forgettable, and Lanayru is fine. I just don’t like the song of the hero part that much. But of course when you unlock it, that cut scene is incredible.

Another thing is Demise. He sucks. He’s such a boring character to me and he’s way too easy as a final boss fight. Like you see Ghirahim giving his all and then demise just dies immediately 💀💀 but the final boss is the most cinematic boss fight ever so that def is a plus. And I also don’t like the introduction of Hylia. She makes the lore so much more boring and confusing and I wish she didn’t exist. Same thing with demise. Having them there was… a choice that was made and doesn’t answer any questions about Link, Zelda, and Ganondorf. Heck, Ganondorf really shouldn’t be included with them. Sure he’s a reoccurring villain, but he’s the same guy everytime, he’s never reincarnated like Link and Zelda. Unless you want to count that as Ganon but I don’t like that whole idea. Idk, it complicates the lore a bit and I can understand why people didn’t like that.

But otherwise a fantastic game that impacted me SO much.

#asks #you’ll see that my favorite Zelda games impacted me the most emotionally

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trippygalaxy · 1 year

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Hello! Mind if I submit a request? Your Warriors one turned out so well!

As far as gift-giving for each of the chain goes, what kinds of things do you think they'd like to receive?

(Also--and you can totally say no to this--could I write shorts based off of yours answers? I'm genuinely curious as to what you'd think, and I've hit writers block currently for the requests I have in my own inbox 😓)

You're doing great, by the way!!

Courage and Gifts

OMG YES! Love this idea and you can totally write something based off this!!!

(Edit: HOLY SHIT! This took longer than expected! I struggled so much with Four and Legend so I'm sorry if those ones are out of character!)

Requests: Open!

Time

Joke Gifts!

Time has a secret appreciation for gag gifts but will NEVER admit it out loud unless he wants the boys to constantly give him walking canes or the medieval equivalent to Werther's Originals. But nevertheless, he does appreciate the gift/joke when he's out of sight.

Oh, please give him a pun book. His eye(s) will light up when he realizes what it is, but be prepared cause he isn't gonna shut up any time soon.

Ocarina

A new ocarina and new memories. He won't admit it but he chest does get tight at the sight of it, but his heart flutters in the same beat. He's gentle as he takes it into his hands, admiring the wooden instrument in it's construction. Now, he is more used to the 12 holed ocarina but isn't against learning how to use other kinds of ocarinas, magical or not.

Warriors

Bouquet of Flowers

Such a soft and beautiful gift will warm his heart! Being so used to the harsh memories of wars and death, the sight of the beautiful bouquet makes him stutter for a moment. It takes a second for him to register that this is for him. The delicate petals, the vibrant colours, they contrast the bloodied swords and shields. It's....nice.

Earrings

Warriors strikes me as someone who has a collection of earrings. Now, seeing as he is a Captain he can't carry such things around with him. It not because he's embarrassed or ashamed (quite the opposite actually), it's simply a safety hazard and would take up more room than necessary. So he keeps such things in his quarters back home, which means he has had the same simply earrings in for months.

So, its easy to say he got excited when he opened the small box he was handed and saw what was inside. He'll put them in immediately and practically prance around camp!

Twilight

Handmade Blankets

Twilight grew up in a small village, so gifts like this aren't unfamiliar! Most of his blankets back home were gifts to him, so being given a similar gift fills him with nostalgia! He melts even more if he was given the thick woven blanket because the gifter was concerned he gets cold. (Tbh he's probably a living furnace but it's still nice!)

Bandana

At first he's very confused at the gift but still appreciated it! It was a lovely green that went well with his armor and tunics. And as he tied it around his neck, it fit perfectly! It wasn't too tight or loose and it didn't bother his neck. As much as Twilight enjoys the gift he can't help but be confused...and a little suspicious.

He continued to fiddle with the bandana even when you made a hasty retreat. Suddenly, he fingertips ran across something that stuck off from the fabric. Twilight gives a light tug and pulls off the bandana to get a closer look only to find a tag. At a closer look he notices the brand on the tag.

It was a fucking dog brand bandana.

Sky

New Wood Carving Tools

A new set of carving tools would mean a lot to him! I'd like to think that he has two sets that he owns, a very well made set that is back at Skyloft and one decent set that he carries on him at all time. The ones on him have seen almost as much as he has, and have been chipped beyond repair. BUT to be gifted with brand new tools that beat any tools he had at home is truly baffling!

Plushie

Something soft, tiny and comfortable to sleep with?! SIGN HIM UP! The soft fabric, the cute aesthetic and thoughtfulness! He loves it and couldn't be more happy, and if you sewn it yourself? DOUBLE LOVE!! He doesn't care what the others have to say, he is holding that plushie to his chest every damn night! Bonus points if it is a loftwing and bonus bonus points if its red!

Wild

Recipe Book

A BOOK FILLED WITH NEW AND INTERESTING RECIPES?! How could he refuse such a brilliant gift! Now, as much as Wild loves cooking and experimenting with all sorts of food, he also loves learning about the culture surrounding these dishes! It is served with other specific dishes? Is it associated with certain events? How common is it? Or is it considered a cuisine! Bonus points if these foods are from your background! He has many questions.

Masks

Wild certainly has a large collection of masks, so large that it almost rivals the old man's! Almost. But he is always happy to add to his odd collection, especially if its more monster masks! He'll be more than happy to sit down and listen to you as you explain the origin of this mask! The more scary the better!

Legend

A Unique Item (Handmade items/gifts. I.e. art work, clothes, jewelry etc)

What do you get the man who -quite literally- has everything? Something one of a kind! Something that was made out of love and struggle (and maybe tears but who am I to say). Whether it's simply or complex gift he'll love it all the same. The fact you thought to make something from scratch just for him warms his heart. Even if he won't admit it!

Sea Shells

He's very very confused at first. He didn't mean to sound rude as he asked why you give him a sack of shells, but he was quick to regret his tone as you shrink back. But the reason you gave nearly brought him to tears.

You quietly said you've been collecting them for him, collecting them from everywhere the group has been. But as he continued to press, you admitted you wanted to gift him something to that when he left -when everyone left- he'd know that this was real. That everyone was real. And that he had friends from across time and space.

Four

Customized Hammer

Not only would Four love a new forging/blacksmithing hammer but on that customized for him?! He would be so giddy! Now, you may be asking, how is it a customized hammer? What makes it special?

The sides of the hammer are engraved with images! And these images look like a familiar small mouse creature~ They are subtle in their design and from an outsiders view, it'll look like some sort of logo!

Jeweled Bracelet

Something small but strong, either brought or made. Inlaid in the bracelet are four gems that sit side by side. Four gems of vibrant colours, each one representing each part of him. The inside of the bracelet -the part that rests again his skin- holds his initials. The metal is a harsh contrast to his warming skin, he really likes it.

Hyrule

New Flowers/Herbs

A hobby of Hyrule's is pressing flowers and herbs in his journal, which is filled with information about everything single plant found in it (based on this headcanon). Being given something to add to his collection brings him so much joy and excitement! Oh, how he can't wait to find out what interesting properties these plants might have! Bonus points if you gifted specific flowers to him cause they reminded you of him! Bit of a warning, he might get extremely flustered!

Compass

For a traveler, he tends to get lost quite a bit huh? He will be quite grateful for a compass to help whenever he steps off the trail! Though at first he is quite embarrassed and tries to say that, while he appreciates the gift he doesn't need a compass that bad! Hyrule accepts the gift after getting a stern look from some members *ahem* Time *ahem* of the group.

Wind

A Ship in a Bottle

A thoughtful gift that reminds him of home. When presented with the gift he has to contain the squeal of joy! (He fails but don't tell anyone) He turns the bottle over in his hands, trying to see every detail of the ship trapped inside. Bonus points if the ship itself resembles Tetra's boat. (A few tears might fall but that's a secret between you and him)

A Beaded Bracelet

It doesn't matter if it's hand made or store bought, he loves it with his whole heart! Whether the beads are crafted by the most talented craftsmen or by a simple tool, he admires every detail and every nick in the wood (intentional or not!). He can't help but smile as he slips it onto his wrist, it reminds him of the matching bracelets his little sister used to make for both of them.

#linked universe #linkeduniverse #linked universe headcanons #linked universe au #linked universe x reader #lu x reader #reader insert #kinda? i guess?#lu the chain #request #ITS DONE!#I OPEN YOU GUYS LIKE IT!#💫star may💫#tales out of orbit

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skyloftian-nutcase · 4 months

Text

Breath of the Sky Ch 13 (Skyward Sword meets BotW)

Summary: When Princess Zelda goes to the Spring of Courage to pray, accompanied by her appointed knight, a giant magical cog spitting out a goddess is the last thing she expects, but it is what she gets. Meanwhile, the Spirit Maiden Zelda is trying to figure out what the heck is happening and where her missing chosen hero is.

AO3 link

Chapter 13 - The Failure

They needed to talk. They needed to plan.

Despite the overwhelming despair and uncertainty, despite the fear and pain, Zelda found herself growing motivated the longer she held the princess. She felt the fire returning, the stubborn determination that made a goddess let herself die and be reborn, the steadfastness that pushed her to seal herself away for thousands of years, the protectiveness that had led to the creation of Skyloft.

And so, after wiping the princess’ tears, Zelda had told her they were going to talk to Link. Both of them.

The champion had been easy to locate. He had been hovering outside, trying his best to look calm but easily giving away his concern with the way his eyes lingered too long on the princess, the speed at which he walked to her. Zelda had explained quickly that they needed to find her Link next, and they set about that goal quickly.

The conviction of a goddess mixed with the nervousness of a teenager, though, and Zelda fell into her habit of worrying when it concerned those she cared about… particularly Link.

“Okay,” she said as she marched ahead, nearly dragging the other two with her. “Okay. So. The plan—the plan is to seal him away. We can sort out killing him after. We can do that. We just need to figure out what’s going on with your ability to seal him away. And you—” here she turned to the champion, finger pointing with enough ferocity to be a dagger “You get to kick his ass, but I’m helping do that too because I want to punch his stupid face. I’m sure Link—my Link—uh, Cloud can help with that too, but we need to find him. This is just—this is fine. This is fine. We don’t need the Triforce yet, it’ll be okay. This is fine.”

The look exchanged between the princess and the champion implied that her ramblings were not, in fact, fine, but Zelda ignored it.

Her anxious energy began to grow frustrated as they wandered the castle. Link’s plight of constantly chasing her down was becoming extremely relatable at the moment. As they rounded yet another corner, Zelda felt relief at seeing a familiar colorful uniform with sandy blonde hair peeking out of the navy blue cap.

“Excuse me!” Zelda called, running towards the familiar guard. He genuflected when he turned and saw her. “Have you seen Link? My Link?”

“I know his location, Your Grace,” he answered. “I was actually heading his way. Would you like me to take you to him?”

Given all the information she’d been dealing with, and given all the running around she’d already done, the sheer comfort and happiness at not only hearing that someone could help her locate her husband, but that it was the one person who reminded her of Impa, made Zelda laugh and fall to her knees to be at eye level with the guard. She hugged him tightly. “Thank goodness! Thank you so much, I would love that!”

The guard stiffened under her hold, just as Impa had the first time she’d hugged her, but she didn’t care. Goddesses she needed some kind of stable rock to rely on in this place, and she didn’t have one, but this guard came close. She saw the reflection of the window ahead of her that he was looking at the princess and the champion, the former holding a hand over her mouth to cover a gasp while the latter watched the guard worriedly.

Honestly, these people. How did any society develop to be so emotionally stifled, anyway?

“I need to teach all of you that hugs are a good thing, good grief,” she chuckled as she pulled away. “But anyway, please do show us where Link is.”

The guard took a deep breath, nodding and rising. He guided them in silence, though the sights of the castle kept Zelda preoccupied – they were heading somewhere she hadn’t been yet, and though the stone walls all blended into each other to create a massive maze, she saw light from outside and grew hopeful. It seemed Link, just like her, didn’t care for being cooped up in this stone prison of sorts, as beautiful as it was.

Zelda had to admit that, though she wanted to help her people grow on the Surface, she was a child of the Sky nonetheless.

They wandered a path that seemed vaguely familiar from their expedition into the nearby large town, though the guard guided them down a road that Link and Zelda had pointedly avoided due to the place flooding with people. Eventually, they wound up near a tower farthest from the castle, overlooking a good portion of land and the town below. The sun was high in the sky now, and Zelda turned to the guard as they approached the tower.

“Is there somewhere we can get food in town?” she asked. She was well aware the castle had food too, but she… didn’t want to go back there.

“We can arrange to have lunch brought to you here, if you wish,” the guard replied. “But yes, there are many places in Castle Town where you can get food.”

Upon their arrival to the structure, the guard dismissed the two colorfully clad knights who had been standing post in the entranceway. He turned to face the group. “The Hero is inside, Your Grace. I’ll ensure no one enters.” His gaze moved beyond her, settling on the champion, and he spoke with a softer tone, “When time allows, Link, Princess Mipha wished to speak with you.”

With that, the knight moved aside to let them pass, standing guard. Zelda looked back at the other two, temporarily distracted—was there another princess? Did Princess Zelda have a sister that they hadn’t met yet? She shook her head, returning her focus to the task at hand. She could only gather so many people together at once, after all. It had taken half the day just to get to this point.

Motioning to the two behind her, she walked into the cavernous structure, hearing Link’s footsteps scraping the stone up above. They climbed a ladder to reach the upper level, the bright daylight dazzling Zelda’s eyes for a moment, and she saw the silhouette of her husband pacing back and forth, clearly agitated.

“Link,” she called with a smile, relieved they were all finally together. Her smile fell, however, at the distressed look on her husband’s face.

Link froze, facing away from her, holding himself with trembling hands. She approached him slowly, worry eating away at her already weary heart. When she was close enough to touch him, she wrapped her arms slowly around him from behind, resting her chin on his shoulder. “What’s the matter, Dove?”

Link felt tense under her arms, but then he draped his arms over hers and squeezed her wrists lovingly, stroking her hands with his thumbs. She shifted so she could stand beside him, peeking around his arm with a curious glance. His expression was soft, enchanted by what he saw, but his eyes were dark and stormy. He glanced at her, his heavy brow relaxing a little. “We started all this.”

There was wonder and a quiet timidity to his voice, awe and disbelief and acceptance settling into him. Zelda squeezed him reassuringly, cocking her head to the side and giving him a soft smile. “Yeah. We did.”

Link let out a shaky breath, and then he let her go, looking down. Zelda’s arms fell to her sides, and she grew worried as she watched him ruminate.

His mouth became a thin line. “And I… I screwed it all up. I cursed everything, everyone. I cursed them.”

“Link,” Zelda said, caught off guard. Although the guilt was gnawing at her as well, she wasn’t entirely blaming herself in such a manner. Demise had outplayed them, and it made her angry and scared and mournful, it made her question how they could actually defeat him if she hadn’t been able to as a goddess or with the Triforce, but she’d still placed the majority of the blame on the demon king himself, not her or Link. Her husband’s worries were clearly eating him alive. He hadn’t even noticed that they weren’t alone.

“Don’t,” Link immediately hissed, growing stormy. “Don’t even try it. You did everything right, you did your part, you trusted me to finish things and I didn’t.”

“What are you talking about?” Zelda asked, putting a hand to his cheek. “Link, you defeated him. We had no way of knowing—”

“I did,” Link spat, pulling out of her reach and turning away, his hands shaking as he clenched his fists. His shoulders hunched and his entire body was so tense it was ready to snap. “He said it himself. I thought—I was such an idiot, Zelda, I—I thought—he started speaking about how his hatred would follow my spirit and your bloodline, and it sounded like the dying words of a monster, I—I didn’t realize it was a promise, a curse, that he was—I didn’t—I d-didn’t—”

Link’s body stiffened even further as shuddering gasps and hiccups interrupted his words, and he bowed his head, hugging himself. Zelda immediately rushed around him to face him fully once more, dragging him into the tightest hug she could muster, willing all of her love into it as her mind whirled.

“You had no way of knowing,” she repeated as she processed what he’d said. What promise was he speaking of? Did it even matter? “And who’s to say it was a curse right in that moment? Who’s to say it wouldn’t have happened whether he spoke it or not? Who’s to say there was any stopping it? Link, I was a goddess. I was a goddess and I couldn’t stop him. You did everything you were meant to do – you solved the puzzles, you tempered the Goddess Sword and made it into the Blade of Evil’s Bane, you traveled through time, you got the Triforce and used it to kill him. You beat him. It was Ghirahim who screwed everything up.”

Ghirahim. It was Ghirahim.

Was that truly why they were in this mess? The realization struck her as she spoke the words, because they were true – she’d exited her slumber because Demise had been killed, after all. Ghirahim was the one who sabotaged it, but Link had ensured that…

“What exactly did he say?” she asked, pulling away to look her husband in the eye.

“He said… he said his hatred never dies. That it would be born again and again, that those who share the blood of the goddess and the spirit of the hero would forever be bound to this curse: an incarnation of his hatred would follow our kind forever, dooming them to darkness and bloodshed.” Link said slowly, refusing to look at her.

Zelda stared at him, dumbfounded. Why… why hadn’t he ever mentioned this before?

As if reading her mind, he stepped away from her, shaking his head and saying, “I—I thought—he was defeated, Zel, I stabbed him in the chest, I thought it was over. The amount of times Ghirahim would give some speech or another despite being defeated, the words were meaningless at that point. Just some other enemy spouting hatred while he bleeds to death. The sword… Fi told me to raise the sword, that it would absorb the remaining evil, that she would seal him away as designed. I didn’t—I didn’t realize—what did I do wrong?”

The trembling of his tone tore at her heart, and Zelda tried to walk towards him again. She couldn’t fathom why Link wouldn’t have mentioned this, but at the same time, his words made sense—and brought so many more questions to mind. How many times had he fought Ghirahim, anyway? The more she considered it, the more she realized she hadn’t really asked much about his adventure. Their time after that journey had been spent recovering and then pointedly avoiding the topic altogether.

Goddesses above, this was all a mess.

“Impa was right,” Link said suddenly, his voice no longer trembling, but so, so dark. “You were wrong. Hylia was wrong. I’m no Hero. Even Fi has decided that! She already chose a successor, after all.”

“Link,” Zelda tried to argue, immediately growing agitated. This sort of talk wasn’t going to do them any good, and she hated seeing him like this. “This isn’t—I know—”

Link’s eyes narrowed at her as if she were an enemy. The look stole her voice from her throat and made her blood freeze. She’d never seen Link this upset. “Yes, you know. Your Grace knows everything. You always did, stringing me along without ever telling me everything until it was too late to even stop you from—from—How does it feel to not have all the pieces until it’s too late? You were wrong.”

Zelda took a step back, her breath sucking in like a gasp as if she’d just been smacked. Link sighed, sensing the change in atmosphere, immediate regret flashing across his face before he finally seemed to notice the other two, who at this point were practically trying to disappear into the walls.

Link’s eyes fixed on the champion, and then he shook his head. The fight quickly drained out of him, but so did any desire to continue talking. He moved quickly towards one of the openings and leapt out of it. Zelda didn’t follow.

The champion ran across the way to peer over where Link had jumped. The princess slowly walked towards Zelda, who was still trying to catch her breath.

There was silence for a long time as the princess hovered near her, as she tried to catch her breath, as Link’s words played over and over in her head.

“Your Grace…?” The princess began hesitantly, a tenderness and shyness to her voice.

Zelda burst into tears.

You always did, stringing me along without ever telling me everything until it was too late.

Guilt sprang forth anew, revitalized by her husband’s accusations, having been squished again and again by both her and Link. It reared its ugly head, reminding her that the fact that Link had been dragged into all of this was very much her fault. Despite being the best fighter among the knights of Skyloft, Link was a softhearted young man through and through. She should have never—but—what choice did she—

Zelda continued to cry, bending over and hugging herself and falling to her knees. Her hiccups and sobs echoed in the area, lost to her own whirling mind but very much laying heavily on the other two occupants.

Link, Champion of Hyrule, felt very much out of place. But he also felt very desperate to try and help. He made his way to the goddess, crumpled on the floor, and his heart hurt to see her like that. He knelt carefully, gently resting a hand on her shoulder, desperately looking at the princess for help.

His own mind was whirling as much as everyone else’s likely was. The words that had been spat out by the Hero of Myth and Legend no longer held the same sting to them. Instead, they rang with such a heartbreaking familiarity, all the way down to the misplaced vitriol.

Zelda. He’d sounded like Zelda.

Never in his life had Link considered that if he ever met the Spirit of the Hero, it would act exactly as his dejected princess did.

He wanted nothing more than to reassure the weeping goddess that it wasn’t her fault at all, just as it wasn’t his fault that Zelda struggled to fulfill her destiny while his came easily. He wanted to tell her that the Hero just needed time and help, just as his princess did. But he was in absolutely no position to do so – he didn’t know what words he could say to reassure Hylia herself, nor could he brainstorm such a conversation with the princess as she herself was just as much a culprit of such behavior as the Hero was. Though, to her credit, she was trying to improve that, hence their budding friendship. But…

Desperate, Link looked pleadingly at Zelda, motioning to the goddess with his head. Do something.

The princess held her hands in front of her chest anxiously, one hand playing with the her wrist. “Your Grace… I… I’m sure he didn’t…”

Hylia continued to cry, not acknowledging either of them. At least she wasn’t upset that Link was touching her. He really wished he could do more.

Link thought of suggesting that they get lunch, but he had a feeling his own love for food would not help the matter. Hylia didn’t seem like the thought of a delicious meal would cheer her up.

The champion was quickly running out of ideas, just as his friend seemed equally clueless. However, Zelda finally knelt down as well, ignoring the dirt she was getting on her dress, and placed her hand on Hylia’s other shoulder. “Your Grace, I’m… I’m sorry.”

Hylia glanced up, eyes puffy, tears staining her flushed cheeks. It was… not a look Link would expect from a goddess.

He supposed he had never thought a goddess could get upset like this. He remembered her radiant smile and eagerness to befriend earlier in the day, and his heart ached even more.

He opened his mouth to speak, but still found himself choking on words. He didn’t know what he could say to help her, what would be appropriate, what would be helpful. Hylia’s gaze was fixed on the princess instead, and Link hesitantly pulled away to give the two some space. Zelda’s eyes quickly darted to his, pleading for support, but he didn’t know what to do.

Hylia stole Zelda’s attention anyway as she hiccupped and shook her head, her gaze dropping to the floor again as she squeezed her eyes shut. The princess shuffled a little closer. Link stepped further away, trying to figure out how he could help, what he could do. He could at least maybe get them some food, giving Hylia and her descendant time to regain composure, and then he could help them in that regard.

Sliding down the ladder, Link continued to hesitate as he dragged his feet to the exit of the guard house. His father was surprisingly missing, despite having been standing guard, leaving Link a little disappointed. He doubted his father could give him advice on the matter, but it would have been nice to at least see him. Instead, Link fumbled to follow through on his decision, feeling like it wasn’t helpful but not knowing what else to do.

“Oh, Link! There you are!”

Startled, Link turned to see his friend, Mipha, approaching, looking relieved. She smiled, red scales glowing in the noon sun, and Link felt like he was drowning in the ocean and just finally saw a lighthouse guiding him.

Link strode up to her immediately, hands gesturing frantically with words he couldn’t piece together, and his friend quickly noticed his distress. “Link, what’s wrong?”

“He—she—” Link spat out, his chest about to burst, trying desperately to hold the words in but unable to do so. He wasn’t sure this was appropriate to share, but by the goddesses he needed to say something. “He’s just like Zelda.”

The words flew out of his mouth like an arrow released from a bow, and he nearly collapsed onto the nearest bench, overwhelmed and exhausted at holding it in for so long, at the sheer relief that nearly drowned him and screamed he doesn’t actually hate me. Mipha slowly sat beside him, watching him hesitantly. He shook his head, leaning over until his face was buried in his hands. “I don’t know what to do.”

“Well…” Mipha said slowly. “You… could start by telling me what you mean.”

Oh. He supposed she needed context.

“The Hero,” he started slowly. “He… feels bad about himself. Like… like the princess. But he… and Hylia… he made… she’s crying, and I…”

Mipha jumped a little. “Hylia’s crying?”

“I don’t know what to do,” Link shook his head. “Mipha, what am I supposed to do?”

“Why is she crying?” Mipha asked.

“She—he—” Link stopped himself and took a breath to reorganize his thoughts. “The Hero. He… he got upset. Really upset. Like… remember when I… when I mentioned… I mean, you kind of dragged it out of me, but…”

Mipha, bless her, remained patient, knowing how Link could struggle to express himself. He’d barely spoken to anyone these last few months, but he’d finally started opening back up to his friend, even if it was just a little. She was the only one who knew that Zelda had yelled at Link in their first weeks together, although the other Champions had clearly sensed the tension.

“He got angry at her,” Link explained slowly. “He got angry. He’s… he said he was a failure, that he wasn’t worthy of being the Hero of Legend. Mipha, it’s… he sounded just like Zelda. But he… he got angry at Hylia about it, and now she’s crying.”

“Oh, my,” Mipha said softly, hand over her mouth. “I… didn’t realize a goddess could cry. That’s… awful.”

“It is awful,” Link agreed, the words spilling out of him now as his emotions mixed with them. “Mipha, what do I do? How do you cheer up a goddess?”

His friend was quiet for a long time, ruminating the matter. “Well… I suppose the same way you cheer anyone up. She cries just like the rest of us… perhaps she just needs kindness like the rest of us too.”

Link thought about the words, remembering all the rituals they did for the goddess. But then he remembered once, when he was very little, when he’d offered flowers to the goddess statue in Hateno, to the warmth that had filled his heart and soul when he’d done so, to the smile that always pulled at his lips whenever he saw silent princesses ever since.

Silent Princess. Zelda’s favorite flower. It always put a smile on the princess’ face too.

Link’s eyes lingered on the one garden that had tried to cultivate the flower, the only one that had succeeded so far, though herbalists hardly called it a success as only one or two flowers grew from the entire batch, and one was wilting already.

Filled with relief and hope, Link dragged Mipha into a hug. “Thank you.”

His friend was stiff under his embrace, and he felt her heart fluttering against his chest. Suddenly, the embrace felt too intimate, too personal, too close, and Link felt his own cheeks blush as he quickly pulled away. Before either party could speak, he hastily made his way to the flower bed, fingers reaching for the healthier of the two specimens.

“Link, wait, isn’t that endangered—”

The silent princess yielded easily to his fingers as he pointedly ignored how the tips of his ears burned, but as he reoriented to his original excitement, he stared at the beautiful, delicate blue-and-white petals with determination.

He turned and smiled at Mipha, nodding in gratitude, before rushing back to the guard house. By the time he reached the top, Hylia’s sobs had evened out, though she was still crumped on the ground. Zelda was on the floor beside her, arm halfway across her shoulders in a hesitant but heartfelt hug. Link took a steadying breath and walked towards the pair, kneeling in front of them. When the two looked up at him, he offered the flower quietly, eyes trying to convey everything his mouth refused to speak.

Hylia stared at him a moment before her gaze lingered on the flower. She reached out slowly, carefully taking the plant from his grasp and turning it in her own calloused fingers.

Her eyes watered, but a smile pulled at her trembling lips. The heaviness of the air seemed to dissipate, and Link smiled back at her.

“It’ll be all right,” he finally said softly.

“We’re here for you,” Zelda added on, growing bolder. “Just as you are for us, Your Grace. I… I may not… I may not have my powers, but I…”

The princess sighed shakily and continued, “I will still do my duty, and I will support you just as you’re trying to do for us.”

Hylia let out another sob, brow pulling together, but the way her face glowed, the way her cheeks puffed and lips pulled conveyed it for the emotional, relieved laugh that it was.

XXX

Abel supposed it was time to break protocol.

He ignored the anxious words warding him away from his goal as he walked down the stone path towards the city. He could practically hear the drill sergeants from his youth telling him to listen to superiors at all costs, to respect those in charge, to fulfill his duty and never question those above his station.

He could hear his heart telling him to do otherwise, his mind set in stone in his path, his beloved wife encouraging him to keep walking forward.

The Hero of Myth and Legend sat on the wall dividing the castle from Castle Town. Abel leaned against the stone beside him, staring out as the sun began to descend from its zenith.

The Hero glanced at him, startled, and moved to get up, but Abel ordered immediately, “Stay put.”

Oh, how his decades of training balked at ordering such a figure around. But mostly, it felt familiar, like when he was talking to his son. Perhaps the fact that they shared a name and a destiny helped.

The Hero slowly resumed his previous posture, bolstering Abel’s confidence on the matter. Now the captain of the guard just had to figure out what to say.

He’d honestly tried not to listen to the conversations in the guard tower. It wasn’t his business – his son, the princess, the goddess, and the mythical hero were all far above him in importance. Although he would always cherish Link, he respected the role his boy had to play, and he wasn’t going to interfere or be so immature as to eavesdrop on important discussions.

It was hard not to hear it, though, when the Immortal Hero was shouting.

Words of a curse, of a demon king, of blame and failure and guilt – they’d all spilled down into Abel’s ears as easily as rain. And it was hard to get them out of his head once heard.

Abel once again found himself wondering what the benefit was in having heroes so young. He still had plenty of strength and endurance in him at the ripe age of thirty-seven, and he didn’t have the emotional issues he’d had when hew as a teenager. Experience was as good a weapon as any.

Not to mention it assisted in cutting through drama and getting to the heart of the matter.

Of course, it still didn’t prepare Abel for such a conversation. It hadn’t prepared him for any of the conversations he’d had with his son once Hyrule had noticed a Hero had arisen. The words the Hero had hissed rang in his ears once more, thoughts of demon kings hunting down his son buzzing before he pushed them away. His son had been preparing for years had the support of all of Hyrule, and Abel would double his efforts in protecting the castle. This one, on the other hand, was a soldier in an eternal war, and Abel and even Link were simply another battlefield on which he had to fight. It seemed he was only just realizing that too, which was... odd and... heartbreaking.

He really had no frame of reference for this person, young and ancient, magical and so unbelievably normal. But he could speak to what he’d seen, and… he dearly hoped it was enough. He hoped it was enough and would be taken in the right spirit. The fact that the—the boy had listened was a promising start, after all.

“I don’t understand what it could possibly be like, being created by the goddess Hylia for the sole purpose of fighting off a demon king,” Abel started honestly, bluntly. “You look as Hylian as anyone else.”

The Ancient One glanced at him, tired and hurting and confused all at once. “I… I don’t know what that is.”

He didn’t know what a Hylian was? Abel supposed he wouldn’t. He was created to fight. Yet he was just like any other teenager. It still made no sense to the captain, but… a boy was a boy. Abel motioned towards the boy’s ears, small and curved like leaves, unique and honestly a little cute. It had always been said that Hylians’ ears were the way they were to better help them hear the goddess – perhaps his were shaped so differently so only he could hear her whispers, so only he could be privileged to her song. It… honestly made Abel’s skin crawl a little. He wished the Hero didn’t look so young – the thought of a child being molded to fight and married off to the goddess… it felt…

Abel didn’t dare say the sacrilegious word, but the ill feeling in his stomach lingered nonetheless. He tried to remind himself that this strange figure was ancient and not actually a teenager, even if he seemed to act like one.

“Your ears,” he commented. “They’re as Hylian as anyone else’s.”

The Hero instinctively reached up to touch his own ears, staring at Abel with wide, genuinely curious eyes now. The traces of guilt and sorrow were fading away in wake of his bemusement, and in that moment he really, truly looked like a kid.

Abel swallowed, trying to get to his point. “You’re… different, perhaps, but you still seem pretty Hylian to me, if you’ll pardon my ignorance on the matter. And if that is the case… then it seems such pressure that you’re putting on yourself is unrealistic.”

Hylia’s Chosen stiffened, though he didn’t comment.

“Calamity Ganon is a scourge that has plagued this land for millennia,” Abel said carefully. “And each time it has come, it has taken all of Hyrule to fight it. Though the Spirit of the Hero and the power of the Goddess are required to vanquish it, they have never fought alone. It seems… unreasonable to expect any different of yourself.”

The Hero bit his lip, his hands falling to his lap as he looked down. “But I was supposed to.”

“Did you defeat him?” Abel asked.

The Hero glanced at him, and though he held guilt in his gaze, he nodded.

“So you defeated him alone, which no one has ever accomplished before or since then,” Abel pointed out. “Yet you blame yourself for his return? If you fought him before and won, this should be easy, should it not?”

“But I—”

“But what?” Abel pressed on. “You can’t change that he’s here. Only that you’re here to stop him. Are you going to fight him or not?”

The Hero stared at him for a long while, eyes growing weary. Abel recognized the look, the exhaustion of war, the scars hidden within. He faced the boy fully.

“You won’t be alone this time,” he told him firmly. “Link will fight alongside you, as well as all the Champions, the guardians, and Hyrule’s army.”

“Sounds rather like I’m not needed,” the Hero said softly, a sad smile pulling at his lips.

“I am not one to waste resources,” Abel replied perhaps a bit too curtly, but he was tired of the adolescent’s moping. This was what the ancient child had been created for, after all, was it not? “You defeated Calamity Ganon long before any army ever could be raised against him. If you fight alongside our forces, if you support Link, then it makes the likelihood of actually killing it all the higher.”

Hylia’s Chosen perked up at the idea given to him, though he still looked a bit uncertain.

“Will you fight alongside Link?” Abel prompted. “Will you help him? Or are you going to drown in your sorrows instead while the rest of Hyrule tries to fight?”

“I’m the only one who can,” the Hero muttered, eyes darkening once more, shoulders set in resignation. “That’s what he said. That’s… what they always say. It’s my destiny.”

Abel waited, unsure what to say to such a remark. The ancient one’s words held a pain and exhaustion to them, but also a bite, and the captain of the guard was suddenly reminded that he was a nobody speaking to a legend.

The Hero of Myth and Legend stared out at Hyrule, sitting up straighter. “I won’t let him destroy this place. I won’t let him hurt Link, or Zelda. Or the princess. I promise.”

“I thank you for your protection,” Abel said genuinely with a bow of his head, catching the Hero’s attention.

“But I…” the Hero continued hesitantly. “I shouldn’t have said what I did. She’s… I know I upset her.”

Abel hadn’t heard Hylia’s reply to any of the words the Hero had said, but he supposed accusing her of being wrong would be upsetting. She seemed too kind to get angry, though, and the hurt on the magical boy’s face implied it as well.

Well. This was certainly a topic he could relate to. He was rather short tempered compared to others, after all. “We’re not perfect, Hero. We will say things that hurt those we love. What matters is that we apologize for them.”

Hylia’s Chosen watched him with a look so eerily similar to Link’s own when his son had been younger—so eager for wisdom from his father, so desperate for guidance—that it almost made Abel falter. Then the boy sighed and nodded in agreement.

Abel smiled as best he could. “Now, I believe Her Grace is waiting for you, great Hero. And if I may be so bold as to say… as a married man, I advise you be quick – our wives don’t like to wait for long.”

The smile that broke out on the Hero’s face was unexpectedly soft and sweet, his eyes glittering as if he was coming back to life, and the Immortal One leapt off the wall, much to Abel’s shock. The captain reached out hastily before seeing the Hero deploy some sort of paraglider, and he sighed heavily, realizing that now he had yet another hero who was going to give him heart attacks on a regular basis.

Oh, how he wished he could hold his son in that moment. But duty called, and he had strayed from it for long enough.

XXX

Admittedly, despite how his heart warmed at the thought of being with Zelda again, Link felt guilt crushing him the closer he got back to the structure he’d run from.

He knew what he’d said was hurtful. He’d chosen his words very particularly so that they would sting. He hadn’t wanted Zelda’s reassurances because he’d known they’d be empty, and suddenly hurt and resentment that had been long forgotten and shoved into the dark recesses of his mind had snarled into the light.

Link was ashamed to even get near his beloved. But he’d be damned if he didn’t own up to it.

And he missed her. He missed her smile, he missed her warmth, he missed her embrace. He was drowning and he wanted nothing more than to hold on to her. He supposed after what he’d said earlier it was a selfish thought at this point, but… if there was one constant in his life, no matter the storm, it had always been her.

He wasn’t going to be the one to lose her again. He wasn’t going to be the one to push her away.

The walk felt like it took an eternity, even though it was only a few minutes. Link hesitantly stared at the ladder leading up to the top, and then he climbed it, steeling himself.

When he got to the top, he found only a couple guards.

Link didn’t bother to speak with them, sliding down once more, and nearly jumped out of his skin as he was met with one of the stranger looking people from the festival. Their skin was red and shimmering, eyes nearly the same shade of amber as the crystal that had held Zelda in a trance for millennia. Their fingers were delicate but held sharp claws, and a blue sash was the only clothing they wore, though their body was adorned in glimmering jewelry.

“Hello, Hero,” the person said in a soft, feminine tone.

Wait, he’d seen her before. She had been sparring with the new Hero that morning.

“Do you—do you know where Zelda is?” he asked quickly, nearly laughing at the irony of such a question given his history with it.

“The princess is with Her Grace and Sir Link,” the woman answered. “They decided to head out into Hyrule Field, I believe. They were going to pick up lunch on the way.”

Hyrule Field? “Where’s that?”

The woman pointed back to the direction where he’d just come from. “It’s just beyond Castle Town. If I were them, I would go to the Sacred Grounds. It’s a pleasant place for a picnic. It’s close to the center of Hyrule Field, you can’t miss it. Would you… like me to take you there?”

Out of a nearly gone habit, Link nearly said no, as if he would find it on his map and could dowse for Zelda beyond that. Goddess. He shook his head, and then hastily said, “Yes, please.”

The strange looking woman—girl? Woman??—smiled and asked him to walk with her. Link tried to ignore the people staring at them as they progressed, feeling the number of eyes on them grow as they entered the big town he and Zelda had explored a few nights ago.

The joy of that exploration felt so far away now. He felt so empty, so unbelievably alone. But the guard had promised he wasn’t, and he…

He just wanted to go home. But it was just like his original journey, wasn’t it? He hadn’t wanted the weight of the world on his shoulders then. He’d just wanted to find Zelda. Headmaster Gaepora had said that the destiny of the world was his to bear, and his alone. No one could know.

Just as now, it was his destiny to fight Demise once more. But… the guard had said it himself.

Link wasn’t alone. Even if he deserved to be, after somehow managing to mess this up.

He would be alone if he continued to push everyone away, though, and he knew it. He remembered just after the world had nearly ended, remembered how isolated he was, and how Zelda had been the only one who could reach him in those dark moments.

Link hardly noticed that they’d reached the fields, hardly noticed that the woman he was with kept glancing at him to make sure he was okay. She seemed to understand he didn’t want to talk and was somehow blessedly fine with it, making the occasional remark about the weather or anything else to ensure it didn’t get too awkwardly quiet.

The awkwardness did linger, though, when Link realized he didn’t know her name. When she stopped and pointed straight ahead, he said, “Thank you… I… didn’t get your name.”

The woman’s eyes widened, suddenly embarrassed. “O-oh! I’m—I’m so very sorry, I—my name is Mipha, Princess of the Zora. I beg your pardon for my lack of manners!”

Another princess? Link stared at her, curious, but then smiled. “Thank you, Mipha.”

The woman’s shame faded, and she nodded, heading back towards Castle Town. Link took a fortifying breath and walked towards the Sacred Grounds. The trees hid some of the area and his approach, allowing him to see the new Hero sitting on the ground alongside Zellie and his wife. His successor was eating away cheerily, garnering a chuckle from Zellie, and Zelda… picked at her food quietly. She smiled when acknowledged, but didn’t seem to have much of an appetite.

Link wanted to kick himself. He also kind of wished the other two weren’t there.

Miraculously, Zelda alone seemed to notice his approach. She paused from holding her food, watching him with a little trepidation. Her eyebrows wrinkled together, and the hurt and worry on her face made Link want to melt into the earth. Zellie seemed to notice something was up, but before she could speak, Zelda rose and walked slowly in his direction.

She paused just out of his reach, and the pair watched each other quietly. A wind stirred between them, trying to push Link away, and he nearly gave in to it, shaking like a leaf.

“Link…?” Zelda called quietly, almost timidly.

Link wasn’t sure if it was the stress of everything catching up to him again, or if it was the way his own wife was scared to approach him as if he were shatter or explode on her… all he knew was that he was crying.

“I’m sorry,” he immediately said, shaking his head, taking a frightened step away. “I’m sorry, Zelda, I’m sorry I’m sorry—”

Zelda’s eyes widened, and she immediately covered the ground between them, nearly tackling him in a hug, carrying him with strong but trembling arms, easing him down to the earth as the world spun around him. He couldn’t get anything else out aside from apologies that stumbled over each other, words only stopping when he hiccupped or gasped for air, his tears endlessly staining her shoulder.

“It’s okay,” she soothed, tightening her hug.

“No it’s not!” Link sobbed. “None of it is, I’m so sorry, I’m—”

Again and again the apologies came forth until he’d exhausted himself, until he found himself clinging to her with as much desperation as he had when she’d awoken from her trance months ago.

He heard Zelda take a shaky breath, her exhale tickling his ear. “I am too.”

The words were raw, the sentiment so genuine it ached. Link didn’t have the emotional energy to reply, couldn’t defend her after trying so many times to reassure her and then eating his own words due to his outburst. He had nothing left to offer except himself, broken and worthless and idiotic as he was, and he just held her all the more.

The sun shone brightly on the pair as the other two slowly rose and watched in silence.

#writing #breath of the sky #zel: this is fine this is fine THIS IS FINE #zellie & champion: *concerned side eye*#abel needs a pay raise guys that's all I'm saying #I did not expect him to become this prominent in the story but SOMEBODY had to knock some sense into these teenagers #and Abel and Mipha were perfect for it #Mipha and Link are more fun to write than I thought #she has good gentle energy and a history with him which helps him actually feel more comfortable and talk #RIP to the last silent princess #don't worry there's probably a few out in the wild still #the horticulturist is just gonna have a mile aneurysm that's all #it was for a good cause #Champion automatically thinks eating makes everything better but he wasn't sure offering Zel food was a good idea #I love being able to write these guys when they actually COOPERATE #Y'all can thank Abel for getting this chapter together #He doesn't have time for teenage drama even if it's understandable drama #again this guy needs a raise #Zel and Cloud happily put the stressors from their journey behind them because why address them? :) Especially Cloud #they're fine #at least Champ doesn't think Cloud hates him anymore #I'm rambling way too much in the tags lol #breath of the wild #breath of the wild link #botw link #breath of the wild zelda #botw zelda #mipha #abel #skyward sword link

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breannasfluff · 6 months

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Don't know if you still need a brain break but here's some LU hot takes/head canons

Four is the most insane. Evidence: only link we know of who thought to seduce the villain.

Wild has totally rode a bear to a lynel joust.

The yiga clan attack any blond male-presenting traveler who looks somewhat competent with a sword, which is why travelers know about these "super secret" assassins. They have no idea what the hero actually looks like. When Wild infiltrated the clan in totk, he entered a Hero Lookalike competition and got 10th place.

Sky shouldn't have asthma as a result of living on skyloft (if he does it's from unrelated reasons), because the air is thinner and so his lungs grew to work more efficiently with oxygen, meaning running on the surface is the best he's ever felt.

Twilights one of the few Links who received an education. Orrin may be small, but it looks like it's thriving, and obviously we'll know in someway if they of all villages were commissioned for a sword for the castle.

When Wild woke up feral, he was socialized by Rhoam Against His Will.

Part of that is that Rhoam re-taught him how to speak so Wild has the Royal accent now.

Also Wild didn't know what he was getting in to and didn't feel any heroic protectiveness of the people or vendetta against the calamity until he connected with people and saw what their lives are like. When Rhoam tasked him on the plateau, he agreed bc he didn't have anything better to do.

Sky thinks it's hilarious that the hero's clothes are modeled after his graduation uniform. His new trump card in an argument is that they should be grateful he didn't graduate the year the uniform was pink or yellow.

Four's colors have deeper aspect of his personality than the manga claims. Red isn't just optimism, he's also innocence hence why he's so easy to cry. Similarly, Vio isn't just the smart one. He's the goth one.

Hope these made you laugh

Huh, the Sky one is interesting!

Also, Wild getting 10th place in the look alike is hilarious 😂

Thank you!

#asks #lu headcanons #linked universe #linkeduniverse

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ariathenovice2 · 1 year

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Some sky headcannons

*He grew up in a large family with many younger siblings (he was the oldest of 6 children)

*he grew up on a island different then skyloft and moved to skyloft when he was 14 to attend the knight academy

*his mother and Zelda’s mother had been friends from childhood, his mother moved to the other island after she got married so he and Zelda grew up visiting each other often

*he thought raising a baby would be as easy as helping his mom with his siblings, he was wrong….very very wrong

*he has a slightly different accent then Zelda due to growing up on a different island, it’s not really noticeable unless he’s speaking fast or saying certain words

*he’s very quiet when he speaks unless he’s excited, then he gets extremely loud

*he can actually draw pretty well

*he is one of 4 in the entire chain that can both read and write

*his hair is actually curly but he just brushes through it like it’s straight so it looks frizzy

*he sleeps a lot but it’s not really restful sleep because of nightmares, so he’s always tired

#lu sky #linked universe #linked universe sky #headcannons #older sibling Sky #he greatly underestimated the care a baby needs

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needfantasticstories · 6 months

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Whumpy WIP - Sky

AO3 link at bottom. Constructive criticism is welcome.

Summary:

Link (Sky) meets unexpected guests. (The intensity ramps up sharply here.)

TW: abduction, because it's what bro tries to do most of his game besides dueling.

Chapter 9: The Dorm

Dim lamps washed out the stained class colors of the Knight’s Academy hallway. Link walked past the stairs and into his room, mind heavy with anger and exhaustion.

He understood Zelda’s desire to fight alongside the knights. She grew up among them, they’d become family. She’d trained under captain Eagus too, and she could take on monsters with technical prowess even Fi would be forced to spout high statistics about, if she were around. No one doubted she could hold her own one-on-one.

But a battle against an unknown invading force? None of them had trained for that.

He wished he had the nerve to go after Zelda; to fly Crimson up despite the late hour and find Indigo. He could find a way to explain that she was a great fighter, that he’d be honored to defend Skyloft by her side, but did she not see what she meant to the rest of the people? How many of them would die for her? How often they’d come to her with concerns and disputes and she resolved them before even needing to involve Gaepora? How they freely shared with her their deepest fears and hopes as if that was easy and normal? How she loved them so easily? How she pushed them all to do, and become, better? Even the elders listened to her as much as she listened to them.

She was more than a knight; she represented their hope. Few in Skyloft knew her divine identity, but they hardly needed to. She radiated wisdom and strength and determination. She gave them courage, made them feel strong.

What would happen if Zelda fell in battle?

And who would meet the end of their blades in the days to come, anyway? What did this mysterious enemy want?

Demise and Ghirahim died, their remaining auras locked within three chests hidden across time and not even he was allowed by Zelda to know where. The demon hordes were dying out or rendered harmless, and not a single one of the tiny political factions in Skyloft had enough venom or strength to fight the entire archipelago.

“Those like you, and those like me…”

The memory rankled him. Lies from a demon, not to be trusted. He had to face this new reality, not dwell forever in the past. Who knew what other threats were out there, as hidden as the surface had once been. He tried to clear his head, to find the courage to look ahead.

Who, then, would be coming? The monsters up here were nearly extinct. And why had Fi asked him to turn her back to the Goddess blade, and raise Hylia back to the sky? How would that fix a break in time? And who would want to engulf such a small island chain in flames?

He opened his door and stepped into the soothing darkness. He could not wait to sleep. Having lived in this same room at the Knight’s Academy for nearly a decade, Link knew every inch of it, and didn’t waste time lighting lamps or feeling around for his chair. He knew every creaking board and bump in the rug by muscle memory.

He crossed to the far wall between his desk and his bed, and pulled off his tunic and chainmail and set them squarely on the chair’s back, the seat angled forty degrees from the table facing him. He draped the clothes and smoothed them out, ready to be cleaned tomorrow.

The senior-class knight initiates, like him and Pipit, had evacuation drills at dawn. He felt tired just thinking about it, plus he’d promised to help Groose with gathering materials using those rude little flying machines Gondo and Zelda loved so much, even if they were great at moving materials to the camps. Hopefully he’d get through the day without smashing one for insulting his pants…again. Perhaps he’d squeeze a meal or two in, though he always kept a glass of pumpkin stew in his pouch these days.

He slipped his boots off and set them aside. He’d have to polish them soon or Gaepora would chide him for not living up to the knights’ dress code. The surface had not been kind to them. But would he really notice with all the drills and preparations for the invasion underway? Could he put it off one more day? He was so tired.

A gleam of moonlight on something red and white glimmering near the door caught his eye. His mind flashed a panicked thought: Ghirahim?! Shivers ran up and down his spine.

Goddesses, I’m more tired than I thought. The demon was gone, sealed away. Skyloft had divine wards against demons too, thanks to Batreaux’s help fixing gaps in the wards–the same he’d used to get in to become human.

Link looked for what red and white glimmer he’d misinterpreted, and wondered if it was ever there in the first place, or simply nerves and exhaustion. A bell had rung not long ago, marking two hours past midnight. It’s just nerves. No sense fretting until the fight comes.

Still, the air felt different. It felt wrong: a darkness too thick, a quiet too watchful. He held his breath, listening.

He could hear Fletch breathing from under the screen separating their rooms. He took a slow step toward his lamp by the door. Then another, tense and watching every direction.

Nothing.

He sighed. He was being a coward.

He squared his shoulders and marched to the door.

A small chime cut the silence as he reached for the handle. A hand touched his shoulder.

He whipped back around to look, wishing for his blade.

Heavy, scaly claws grabbed his wrists and sliced into his biceps as they gripped his upper arms. They yanked his arms taut to either side, pinning him in place just inside the door.

As his mind raced to catch up, another pair of claws clamped around his throat and mouth. He wished he’d opened the door faster. He planted his bare feet and shoved, but they held firm as boulders, something huge flapping around them. Wings?

Crimson, something’s wrong! Find Zelda! He felt his sleeping bird’s mind stir. He repeated the thought.

The hand on his throat closed tighter. He couldn’t breathe! He struggled to twist away. Escape was so close! If he could just yell! He tried to bite the scaly claw holding his mouth, but it had his jaw clamped tight. He bucked and writhed, but they seemed to anticipate his moves, and held him firmly in place. They maneuvered to hold steady any time he gained the slightest ground, huge leather wings snapping as he fought the free himself.

Since when do lizalfos have wings? He thought, stars flashing in his vision. His lungs burned, aching to pull in air.

It doesn’t matter! He thought, trying to bring his fists together so he could add momentum to his elbows, Just get free, then worry about it! They wrenched his arms back apart, and his shoulders ached at the force. White filled the periphery of his vision. One hissed at him, and his body began to slump in their hold. He slumped.

He had to find a weakness, fast.

He tried to relax and keep what little air remained. The hand on his throat eased up, and he caught his breath, panting through his nose, as he studied the monsters. He strained to look at the blue lizard on his left.

A silver, horned helmet and beaded bracelets glinted in the light from the window. It wore a red silk waist wrap and matching scarf over its lengthy abdomen, like common Skyloft clothes in design, oddly sophisticated for a demon-lizard. It was as strong as a dark lizalfos, and its breath reeked of sulfur too. Enormous leather wings reached the ceiling, and flapped to help the beast counter Link’s renewed resistance as he tested it. Yellow eyes leered at him from the blue brows. He glared back, then slowly looked to the attacker on his right, the claw over his mouth giving just enough for him to do so, praying to Hylia for better luck.

This red lizard towered over Link. He strained to look up high enough to see its glowing yellow eyes. It snarled at him as he pulled his arm to test it; the long, scarred snout stretched in a horrifying grin with dagger-sized teeth. It was enjoying this.

Link felt dread in his stomach, threatening to weaken him as orange flames danced in the back of its throat. His wide stance faltered as adrenaline shook him, and it gripped his arm tighter. His wrist felt close to snapping.

Link drew on that rush of adrenaline and pulled explosively to avoid the burst of flame he feared would come any moment now, but it only strained his shoulder as the beast continued to leer. If it chose to, trapped and compromised like this, one breath could kill him.

Yet it did not.

Dark lizalfos, the ones he’d found in Skyloft Temple, could breathe paralyzing poison as well as flames. Link wondered if these beasts could do the same. No wonder he felt so weak.

They should have killed him by now. Did that mean they wanted him alive?

The lizard behind him squeezed his head tight in front and behind and faced him to the window.

Two more winged lizalfos had appeared inside. Moonlight illuminated the bombchu-like spiked helmet and multicolor feather necklace on a shorter gray one, and cast a terrifying shadow from the heavy fur cloak of a much taller one with full-body black tattoos. Four more peered in from outside, at least that he could see.

He had lost this fight before it began. The shadows in the room grew deeper.

A cold silk glove brushed lightly across his cheek.

No! It has to be another nightmare.

Link strained against them with strength he didn't know he had left.

It didn’t make a difference. With terrible timing, his stamina failed him again, and he slumped within the hands that now held him upright. He gasped, struggling to catch his breath through his nose while his throat seemed determined to close. He watched the familiar hand in dread as it finished brushing from below his eye and up to his temple.

This is some new version of the Silent Realm, a test of courage. This isn’t real. It’s a dream. Hylia is testing me.

“Hello, Skychild,” The demon laughed. He felt sick as the thumb ran softly across his cheek again.

Link closed his eyes. Wake up! Dear Hylia, let me wake up!

“I will make you deaf from the sound of your own screams” came the unwanted memory.

“Such poor manners. It’s unspeakably rude to keep visitors waiting for so long? But why the look of surprise, Skychild? Didn’t I make you a promise? I intend to keep it.”

The demon’s tongue slithered and whipped like a snake.

He shivered and kept his eyes closed. The piercing claws would not let him turn away, though he tried.

Crimson, get help! But stay away!

“I brought some friends from another time to meet you, Skychild. They are quite adept at fighting, having faced a hero such as yourself in another era. I’m rather thrilled at how lizalfos have evolved into a more glorious form: the aeralfos. More adept, more agile, more intelligent, and they work in teams! They’ve even adopted fashion! I’m rather taken with them. I expect Skyloft will see more and more of my friends in the coming days,”

The monsters around him laughed.

This was the enemy? This was what the knights of Skyloft would face?

Crimson’s thoughts came to him. Cant get out! Can’t get out!

“I suppose you have the right to be surprised to see me, Skychild. After all, those wards have kept us demons at bay for centuries. Only one with divine power can surpass them. Luckily, I have found just such an ally. What divine power that witch has! Portals through time, the kind I had to chase down for over a century, she can make with a flick of her scrawny little wrist! Oh, delicious power! The possibilities have been thrown wide open if I can but convince her to assist with Demise’s return! Well, one of his more competent incarnations, at least. I felt positively giddy as a bird in Spring when she accepted my services,” he smiled and carded his fingers through Link’s hair, “But that’s not what she truly wants,” he smiled.

“No, all that snobby, spoiled little bookworm wants, all she pines for like a wounded dog, are pathetic little heroes like you,” Ghirahim clicked his tongue, “Such a tragic waste of divine power,” The demon lord sighed.

Link held himself still, trying to understand but nothing was making sense. Who was he talking about? What witch? What heroes?

“So, the fates have united us again. Letting you scurry around proved disastrous last time; nothing but setback after setback! You thwarted my hard work at every turn with your pestering! And you had the audacity to defy my master. You took my victory and stole it at the last moment! You do not deserve to be alive, worm,” he glowered, “You and Hylia’s brat have intervened enough already! So clever, breaking up Demise’s soul and hiding away the sword,” he glowered, “But now… I did promise to punish you, didn’t I?”

Link’s heart felt like a stone in his chest, plummeting. This, he understood. This, he’d been anticipating it somewhere deep in his soul for months now. Would they kill him afterwards? Would they not bother to wait and do it here, in his room, where Zelda might be the first to find his body on this floor, cold and stiff? He thrashed at the thought.

Crimson sent waves of panic to him. Pain! Light! Escape!

Crimson! What’s wrong!? Get away!

Ghirahim gripped Link’s throat in steely fingers, and slowly squeezed. Link stayed still, measuring his breaths until the airway closed. He’d hold on as long as he could. He’d not give Ghirahim the satisfaction of seeing him panic.

Ghirahim smiled, and released his grip slowly.

“Sadly for Cia, I must destroy her preferred hero. But I need to keep her on my side. And if Cia wants a hero, then if she is loyal, she shall have one,” He stepped back, and looked to the aeralfos on his right, “Craw, is your name, is it? Good. Bind him.”

At this news, Link dropped his weight, hoping to break their grip with the sudden movement. They did not falter, and scaled hands forced his wrists together and bound them in coarse rope, then pinned his upper arms at his side and bound them to his chest as well. The green claw over his mouth pulled his jaw down hard, shoving rags into his mouth, then pulled a fabric tightly over the rags, and tied them in place at the back of his head.

The blue one lifted him like a child as the red, scarred monster grabbed his kicking feet and bound his bare ankles together. They carried him toward the window, claws digging into his thigh. Drawing blood.

As they passed his dresser, Link’s feet were just close enough to strike.

He kicked hard, shoving it against the wall. Craw stumbled a half step, but Link prayed it proved to be enough. Fledge lived on the other side. The boy had grown remarkably strong, but he was still terrified of bumps in the night. He might run to Groose, and maybe Groose would find help instead of diving in headfirst, and maybe, just maybe, they’d tell the knights. Too many “hopefully”s, but he had no other choice. If the invasion had begun early, they all needed to evacuate.

Ghirahim’s dagger sliced his arm as they set him down, and he yelped under the gag, his thoughts scattered. Another dagger was poised in the air, floating between his eyes.

“Behave, boy. Or I could send these aeralfos to butcher every last one of your dear Hylians in their sleep,” Ghirahim hissed and then snapped.

Link and the aeralfos reappeared in the cold grass outside his room in the midst of the other waiting aeralfos. They wore cloaks to disguise their monstrous forms. The aeralfos’ hot breath sent puffs of steam in the cold air.

“Quietly now. I want this to be a surprise. Take him to the Faron entrance, and be quick.”

The demon disappeared.

Crimson, is anyone coming? He felt nothing in reply. Crimson! Are you alright?

Craw hoisted him, claws digging into his shoulder and thigh again. Link shivered in the cold and looked back to his home.

Two aeralfos threw a lit torch into his room. He bucked and twisted in their grip again, and tried to yell, but to no avail. Hadn’t Ghirahim just said not to draw attention? But if someone could see it, perhaps they’d just helped him.

They ran through the gate and downhill toward the island’s edge.

They reached the edge of Skyloft. The gray aeralfos holding him spread his wings and, without ceremony or warning, the invaders jumped off the edge.

Link’s whole body stiffened and he grabbed at the monster for something to hold. He could only find a handful of beads that broke off. They were freefalling. No sense of lightness, freedom, or familiarity accompanied his fall now. No crimson loftwing would come. His body prickled with terrifying weightlessness. The screech of a loftwing pierced the night sky above him, and he searched for a sign of a bird or rider.

I struggle with most of this fic, but the whump parts are turning out well with all the inspiration around tumblr, so here's some more of my obsession with a particular villain. He's in 3 of my 4 WIPs as THE villain (among many). I also REALLY like aeralfos now.

I'll be editing this bad boy in the future, so constructive criticism is welcome. I can take it if you give me something nice to wash it down.

(This one eventually ties in with Blood and Blade)

#linked universe #whumptober #sky linked universe #whumptober 2023 #aeralfos are cool #skipwrites

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