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caramel-catss · 3 months

Text

comma flirting

on ao3

word count: 4.4k

a collection of letters between link and ravio; ravioli falling in love

Mr. Hero,

I’m writing to inform you that your rental on the Sand Rod has expired. My assistant, Sheerow, has come to collect this item, and it will be available for re-rental at 50 rupees.

Best,

Ravio

Ravio,

I’m in the middle of assfuck Desert Palace and writing this on your envelope. Enclosed is a purple rupee. I have the rod.

Link

Mr. Hero,

Sheerow is coming again to pick up my Hookshot. Please don’t wrestle with him this time.

Best,

Ravio

P.S. Please visit the shop for purchases you make.

Ravio,

I’ll be there tomorrow.

Link

Mr. Hero,

Don’t worry when you open this letter - no rentals are due - though I’m sure you will anyway. I’ve been meaning to ask this since they’ve been in season for a while, but you haven’t been around recently. Is it alright if I harvest your apples while you’re out? You can trust me not to sell them, heh.

Thanks,

Ravio

Ravio,

Go for it, I won’t be home anytime soon. Juicer’s in the basement. Sell them and I’ll kick you out.

Link

Mr. Hero,

Since my retirement, I’ve been moving away my tables and letting the actual house part of your house take over. I’m excited for you to see the place!

Your orchard produced beautiful apples, but there’s so many I’m not sure what to do with them. I’ve never seen so much fruit in my life! I’ve learned some baking recipes from the locals, so I’ve been trying a few of those. Let me know when you’re heading home soon so I can make pie!

Stay safe.

Ravio

Rav,

I’m fine; that gash from last month is just a scar now. I’m as safe as possible. I’m going home next week to pay you for that red potion even though you refuse.

Link

Link,

Don’t pay me back for that red potion. You were unconscious from blood loss.

Do come back home though, before Sheerow gets into the pie.

Ravio

Ravio,

I’m on my way right now. Note the purple rupee in this envelope.

Link

Mr. Hero,

You’re insufferable. I’ll see you soon.

Best,

Ravio

Ravio,

I’m writing this in case your stupid bird manages to find a portal before I do. Hylia knows he will. I miss your apple pie.

I hope Lorule’s doing okay. I hope your Triforce is actually back. It’s finicky. The Goddesses don’t like to fully honor wishes I wonder if you hold Courage.

I’m sorry. This is stupid. This is a stupid letter. You’re never getting this.

Link

I changed my mind I need to keep writing before I go insane

Zelda wants me to move into the castle. I don’t want to but every time I try to bring that up I feel like there’s sand in my throat. Like that one time at the Desert Palace. I still have that letter from you. I can’t believe I always wrote on the envelopes.

She’s officially queen now and says I should retire from being Hero and reveal my princehood to the public. Fuck, I never admitted that to anyone. It’s not like you’ll see this letter. Are you Hilda’s brother too? Nevermind.

I really, really hate the castle. Is that a selfish thing to think?

My uncle died there

I’m running out of parchment so I’m throwing this away. Goodnight, Ravio.

Ravio,

I guess you’ve become my diary now. Writing things out helps, I think.

Zelda and I fought today. I think I pissed her off. Who am I kidding. I pissed her off. I told her I’m already figurehead enough as the Hero and being a prince is too much shit for me to handle. She got real butthurt and almost sad? I don’t know. I’m bad at this shit. She kicked me out of the castle and said we could talk about it later. I don’t want to talk about it anymore.

I never actually told you about the brother thing, did I? We found out a while ago. My first adventure, I think. Been a while.

I know Lorule needs its Triforce but please don’t rely on it to solve everything because it doesn’t.

I need to get a notebook or something. Or just suck it up and buy more parchment in Kakariko. I’m harvesting more apples tomorrow because it helps me not to think. I miss your apple pie. I miss you. I miss not being alone in that house.

Maybe I’ll just write more letters. Oh well. Goodnight.

Link

Ravio,

Kakariko was out of parchment for a while so it’s been a month since I’ve written things down. Zelda and I worked out the prince thing, I guess, because we didn’t discuss it any more after that day. As it stands, I’m still the asshole who saved the country more than enough times.

I’ve been reading up on these legends about Heroes. I wonder how it was like for them.

Other than that it’s been boring. I decided to juice half the apples and sell the rest. You better show up soon so I don’t have to sell the next crop.

Zelda says there’s a disturbance by the Sacred Realm entrance. Almost like there’s a crack between worlds there. By the Goddesses, Ravio, what are you and Hilda doing? Just don’t be stupid and don’t get yourself killed.

Please.

Link

Link,

I can only imagine your embarrassment when this letter reaches you. The thought makes me giggle, which I know will make you more embarrassed, which makes me giggle more.

Sheerow flew through the crack as soon as Hilda and I opened it. He arrived back to me a few hours later with three envelopes that I don’t think you intended to send.

I miss making pie, and baking in general. Retirement didn’t last long after I returned home to my post serving Hilda. I hold Wisdom, not Courage, and the Triforce is doing wonders for Lorule. I’m sorry it hasn’t treated you well. You deserve better than that. I’m sorry about your uncle, too.

I’m proud you stood up for yourself. No, I’m not blood related to Hilda, as far as either of us know. But you’ve been living life fine without being a prince, you’ll continue to live fine without it. Just stay safe in your Hero business. And for the other Heroes, I don’t know. Lorule has no Heroes, other than you. I’m sure it wasn’t easy for them, though.

I’m sending Sheerow back with this letter before I officially leave Lorule with Hilda. We’ll both be in the castle. I’m sure Zelda has discovered the crack, but if you may, please tell her we’ll arriving with Lorulean soldiers and nobility. I’ll visit you as soon as possible. I miss you too.

Sincerely,

Ravio

Ravio, you bastard,

I will be at Hyrule Castle at the asscrack of dawn and if you aren’t there I will fight you.

Link

Dearest Link,

This letter hopefully won’t arrive to you via Sheerow as I’m leaving it in your pack. Inside is food, weapons, the rings you asked for, and other items that you needed. Thank Lolia your bag has an expansion charm, because even my amazing packing skills wouldn’t have cut it. For the love of the three, stay safe out there. It’s been months since you’ve last been on a journey.

As Lorule’s ambassador, I’ll be at the castle most days, but I’ll take care of the house and continue baking. Zelda has been teaching me recipes from the castle kitchens, and they’re quite lovely!

Also as Lorule’s ambassador, I request you send reports on the happenings in Hytopia so that we may bring sufficient aid. As Ravio, I need to know if you’re safe; you know how much I fret.

Please write.

Sincerely,

Ravio

Dear Ravio,

You’re the craziest worrywart I’ve met, and Queen Zelda is my sister. I’m happy to supply reports, both of Hytopia and my own health, but I promise you that I’m fine. This is either my sixth or seventh adventure. I genuinely lost count.

As the Hero of Legend, I report that Hytopia is suffering from a “fashion crisis”. The two others operating with me are sufficient in their help, and I am currently confident in our quest to save Princess Styla. I estimate six months, maximum, will be spent on this journey. I will reach out if foreign aid is needed.

As Link, I need you to know with utmost honesty that this place is fucking crazy. There are two bitches following me anywhere, and by the Goddesses are they amateurs, claiming to be the Hero of Legend. I’m so tired of them. The princess is crying and hiding around town because she’s wearing a fucking brown jumpsuit and she can’t take it off. I feel like I’m slowly losing my sanity as each day passes, but what else is new?

The fights are fine and easy. I’ve had to wear a skirt for the past week for complicated reasons, but I’ve found that this shit is actually practical. Who would’ve thought?

Write me back so I don’t go insane.

Link

Dearest Link,

I cannot deny that I’ve had to read your letter multiple times over to get through it without laughing. You never fail to take any boredom from my day, even when all I do is talk to nobility and worm my way through politics.

I’m not sure what to write about. I’ve tried apple turnovers for the first time, but they haven’t come out the best. I’m spending time with the castle’s baker and pastry chef whenever I can. I’m sure you’ll be happy once you’re home. Speaking of home, Sheerow’s starting to relieve himself in the house again. I don’t think he likes the bird cage, but I haven’t had time to fix this problem yet. Please give me your blessing to let him fly free again.

Stay sane,

Ravio

Dear Ravio,

Make that bird promise to stop shitting on my carpet and you have a deal.

I’ve had to wear more green in the past month than I’ve ever had to in my life - they made me dye my hair, for Goddess sakes - and I’m ready to never see that color again. Can you burn down the forest for me so the grass is brown? Don’t do that, Zelda will have our heads.

Apple turnovers aren’t too hard, I’m sure you’ll get it soon. Send one over if Sheerow can fly fast enough.

I’ll be home before year’s end.

Link

Dearest Link,

You’ll be pleased to hear that the forest is gone and we’ve both been banished to the Dark World.

I’m kidding. I’ve been discussing with Zelda on the prospect of me gaining Hyruleian citizenship, and Hilda says she requests you receive Loruleian citizenship as well, seeing as you’re our Hero. The process for both is very complicated and apparently the Queens can’t just write us down for both without backlash from nobility, enough that it won’t be worth it. I’ve been looking for the easiest ways, and including the benefits on tax, marriage ironically comes up. I’ll keep searching.

I got the turnover recipe down; Sheerow should be arriving with a package of them for you and your “hero” friends. Enjoy!

I’m glad you’ll be home soon, even though it’s only summer. Stay safe out there, as always.

Sincerely,

Ravio

Dear Ravio,

I don’t know Hyrulean law well but I think you can keep citizenship after divorce. I don’t know about you, but I personally don’t give a shit. We could marry for the benefits and if either of us sorry fucks finds someone, we divorce.

Link

P.S. Those were the best turnovers I’ve had in my life. Keep making them.

Dearest Link,

It’s a decade of marriage before citizenship becomes unconditional, so if you’re fine with that, I don’t mind either. I’m glad you liked the turnovers, I’ll send more once the orchard produces more apples. Also, how are you doing in Hytopia?

Sincerely,

Ravio

Dear Ravio,

I’ll be dead within the decade, so fuck it, let’s do it. I’m leaving a ring in the envelope. For my ego, please pretend like this is the best damn proposal you could have ever dreamed of.

Hytopia is doing well and Princess Styla is back to normal. I’m avoiding the ports and taking the scenic way home, so I’ll be back in two weeks.

Link

Dearest Link,

Don’t joke about that, please. I’m glad you’re on your way. I’ll see you soon.

Your proposal has had me swooning and I spent three days in recovery at the castle. On a real note, Zelda and Hilda are both confused and slightly furious at us. I believe we simply found a unique situation to this problem.

Sincerely,

Ravio

Rav,

I’m at Kakariko this morning to pick up bread. I didn’t want to wake you up. I should be back by noon.

Link

Link -

Emergency call from the castle, some monster invasion. I’m sure you’ll hear about it soon.

- Ravio

My Ravio,

Killing the monsters you had a meeting about yesterday, then Zelda wants me at the castle for wedding stuff. I’ll see you tonight.

Link

I have a dinner tonight so I’ll be gone when you get off work. Pie is in the oven for you. “My”?

- Ravio

We’re getting married, aren’t we?

Link

Link and Ravio,

I wish you the sincerest congratulations on your marriage, though the circumstances of it are definitely exploiting a loophole that I’d have half a mind to fix. Regardless, may you both be blessed with peaceful and long lives. My brother, I am so proud of you for how far you’ve come. My brother-in-law, you are an amazing friend, and I’m excited to be family with you.

Peace and prosperity for you both!

Sincerely,

Zelda

Ravio and Link,

I am amazed that this is happening, for multiple reasons. I suppose it is my fault for being surprised, however, knowing my advisor. Hero of Hyrule, I request you take care of Ravio; Ravio, I request you take care of Link. Perhaps your personalities are only compatible with each other after all.

Best wishes for you both,

Hilda

Link,

It’s been a week with no word from you, and I’m beginning to worry. I’m sending Sheerow off with this letter but I’m unsure if it’ll reach you, so if it does, I can only beg you to write back. These new monsters, the black-blooded ones, have been retreating some. Zelda is recruiting small forces of people to make them back off from towns, and it’s worked so far. We are all worried about you. Zelda and Hilda have been asking me where you are, and I don’t know how to explain that I don’t know.

I can only assume you’ve ended up in one of those portals they’ve emerged from. Your pack is missing, as well as some of your rings, armors, and gears. You left your extra pair of boots behind, I have them for you. I have your extra weapons, too. Please come back for them. Please come back.

I miss you. I hope you’re okay. Sheerow is pissing on the carpet again.

Yours,

Ravio

Dearest Ravio,

Time travel is fucking weird, so I have no idea when this’ll reach you. I’m fine. I’ve been pulled into another adventure, this time with my own kin. When the portals spit us out back home, I’ll sit down and have a long talk with you. We promised not to keep secrets from each other, remember? I trust you, but I have limited parchment so I can’t write it all down right now.

In summary, though, I’m with other Links from around history. I met my fucking descendant. It’s crazy. They call me Legend; there’s 9 of us. I’m the veteran, apparently.

I’m sorry this is short. I hope I’ll be home soon. I miss you. Tell Sheerow to stop shitting himself, and while you’re at it, tell Zelda to stop shitting herself too. I’ll be okay.

Yours,

Link

My dearest Link,

I’m relieved you’re alright. Zelda laughed when I passed on your message, and she’s in a better mood now. Hilda also seems relieved. I’m awaiting your coming home soon.

Your descendant? I expected those portals led to different dimensions, not across time. What is he like? I would consider you a veteran in your field, Link; you’ve saved more than 5 separate nations.

I made Sheerow promise not to piss on the carpet anymore, but I don’t think a bird will hold his word well, haha.

We all miss you. If When you and your traveling companions come by, I’ll be here to welcome you all. I’ll see you soon.

Yours,

Ravio

Dearest Ravio,

Stop worrying about me, damnit. The Goddess will keep me around long enough to keep running errands for her. Sheerow, you stupid bird, it’s cage for you if you don’t shit outside. I’m glad Zelda and Hilda are okay.

We call him Hyrule, the Traveler. He’s some centuries down the line, the next Link, and I’ve been to his world. It makes me worry about the future. Rav, I’m really, really worried. I don’t think I’ve done enough

Stay safe.

Yours,

Link

My Link,

You’ve done enough. More than enough. Never forget that.

If Hyrule falls, then at the very least, you defended it with all your life. You gave it precious time to be prosperous. You’re the Hero of Legend for a reason, Link.

Zelda wanted to include her own message on this letter when she heard that you’re distraught, so I’m leaving the rest of the space to her. Stay safe.

Yours,

Ravio

Link -

Hyrule’s history consists of both golden and dark ages. The Heroes of past all fought hard and performed their duty, and sometimes, the Kingdom falls regardless. However. Hyrule always rises again. I understand your worry for us, for Hyrule; but even when we fall in the future, a new Hero arises, right? Hyrule will be okay. You’ve done everything asked of you, and that is more than enough.

My doors are open if you need comfort or advice. Please, if you need to, seek me out. I’m here for you, like I’ve always been, always remember that.

Your sister,

Zelda

Dearest Ravio,

I’m sorry I worried you. I’ll be home soon. I’ll tell you everything then.

We’re in my Hyrule right now. I can tell from the magic, but we’re far out from the kingdom. Prepare ingredients for 9 - we have a cook, don’t worry - and expect me home within week’s end.

Yours,

Link

P.S. Zelda, we need to talk. There’s a curse. I’ll be at the castle promptly.

My dearest Link,

Please note the package attached to this letter. There’s two apple pies for you all, rupees for the Smith’s payment, and the Captain’s scarf which he couldn’t grab before you were all whisked away. Zelda has also left rings with protective charms for the others with none.

One more thing. The hibiscus plant is flowering, but I forgot to pick one for you earlier. I placed a stasis charm on it, so I hope it’ll be okay when it reaches you. I tried to pick the best color from your description; I hope I did her justice.

Best wishes for you all!

Yours,

Ravio

Dearest Ravio,

The hibiscus is perfect. Thank you.

The Captain thanks you for his scarf (he was whining like a toddler without it), and the Smithy sends you back your change. Pass on my thanks to Zelda for the rings. Your pies are delicious, as always.

Nothing much has happened lately, nothing worth writing about. We’re in the Champion’s Hyrule, and it’s so large that I feel grateful for the distance between our Kingdoms now. I never want to walk again.

Yours,

Link

My dearest Link,

I, once again, am entirely unsure if this will reach you. I’m writing from my bunk. It’s been an interesting past week.

I’ve been thrust through a portal of my own, thankfully able to prepare first. I met the Captain again; I can see why he recognized me now! I’m doing okay, and I’m fine and safe. I’ve run into Wind, too, and a boy who almost looks like Time.

Link, I think I met her too. She matches everything you described, hibiscus and all. I don’t know how she’s here, either. She’s kind.

I’ll write as much as I can - it should be more exciting, now! - and I hope we’ll both be home safe soon.

Yours,

Ravio

My dearest Ravio,

Excuse me, you’re fighting in the fucking War of Eras!? Tell Warriors if he puts you on the front lines I’ll kill him. Slowly. By the Three, you better not get killed or hurt or ANYTHING along those lines. And you need to get home safe as soon as possible so the chance to is gone.

I don’t know what to say about her. I don’t know how she’s there, either, but be kind to her. And tell her I say hi, I guess, if she remembers me. Don’t let her go ba

Don’t open any time paradoxes, I know I’ll be the sorry fuck who saves you. Stay safe, damnit.

Yours,

Link

My dearest Link,

You never fail to make me laugh. And you call me a worrywart! I’m fine, don’t worry. Everyone is sweet and they take extra care to keep the ones from other times alive. Unfortunately, I think informing Mr. Captain Hero Sir of your threats would create a time paradox, as he doesn’t know you yet. Feel free to threaten him after-the-fact in your group, though!

Marin remembers you. She tells you to stop being a grump, and that’s only after my few descriptions of you! She also congratulated us on our marriage, though it’s been a year since. She appreciates the hibiscus plant and your pursuit of music when you’re home. She also says you should retire.

I understand why you care for her, Link. Really, you are a sweet person.

Yours,

Ravio

My dearest Ravio,

The Captain laughed in my face, because he’s an asshole. I would bet on my life that he’ll keep you safe, though; he’s captain for a reason. And maybe I do worry too much, but I have good reason to.

I’m glad she’s alive. This is selfish, but ask her if Koholint is doing okay, please. Tell her I’ll retire when the ladies upstairs let me.

I don’t know how to reply to your last line, Rav. But thank you, I guess. It’s hard to be kind in this world.

Yours,

Link

My dearest, Link,

I’m sorry I haven’t been able to write for a while. Sheerow went missing, and with no time traveling postbird, I haven’t been able to send letters. The war has also kept me busy and the paper has been scarce. I miss you so, so much.

I’m home. I don’t know how long it’s been for you, but it was around a year and a half for me. Sheerow is safe; he’s been at home this whole time. I’ll be waiting for you here again.

I like to think I discovered a bit of courage for myself while out there. Maybe the amount you rubbed off on me finally paid off, yeah? I’m really tired, I’m going to stay here for a while and rest. This is all over the place. I’m sorry.

Marin went back to Koholint. I don’t know if she’s alive there, but I’d like to hope she is. I’m sorry you two didn’t get to meet again. I’m apologizing a lot.

Have you been around? Our house looks the same as ever. I hope you did get to visit, at least for a little, in the time I’ve been gone.

I pray for your safety. I miss you, Link.

Yours,

Ravio

My dearest, Ravio,

I can’t put my relief into words. I’m still out, but nearing the end of this adventure. I can feel it coming to a close soon, and this one feels final. Maybe I’ll actually be able to retire.

I’ve missed you so much. I thought you were dead, or hurt, or Sheerow was dead or hurt, and I swear I couldn’t sleep for months. I’ll never let that damn bird out of our sights again. Please rest, Rav. I understand how you’re feeling right now. I’ll be home to help as soon as I can - you can’t recover from something like that alone.

Marin being alive or dead is more of a discussion if she is real or not real. I find that thinking over those kind of questions too much will only lead to feeling worse. It’s better to just accept that she’s gone. I’ll be there for you.

I’ve visited some, not as much as I wish I could. There’s never much time to relax, and our house feels wrong without you there.

Never apologize again, that’s a threat. I’m so glad you’re okay.

Yours,

Link

P.S. Did you think I wouldn’t notice you flirting with me? “My dearest, Link,”?

My dearest, Link,

Thank you. I’m harvesting apples from the orchard again, and I made pie for the first time in a while. Sheerow is carrying it over for you.

It’s been hard, this past week, but I think I’ll be okay. I just need time to re-adjust. Don’t rush your adventure for me, okay? I’m glad you’ll be home soon, though.

I’m looking forward to see you again.

Yours,

Ravio

P.S. I can’t help but notice that you also placed a comma after “dearest”. Besides, aren’t we married?

My dearest, Ravio,

The portals have begun to place us in our own times, and we’re having our final goodbyes. You’ll be happy to hear that I’ll be home within a fortnight. I’m excited to see you again, finally. I love your pie; it’s amazing, as always.

I’ll see you soon.

Yours,

Link

P.S. We are married, and we’ve signed off as “yours” for over a year. Are you surprised that you’re my beloved?

My dearest, Link,

Hurry up and get home, you flirt. First you propose over letters, now you confess?

Yours,

Ravio

My Ravio,

I’m in Hyrule, three days out from home. Don’t you forget that you initiated everything.

I can’t wait to see your face again. I love you.

Your husband,

Link

My Link,

I won’t bother to send you this letter, because I’ll tell you in person, but you can go ahead and find it on our counter when you arrive tomorrow.

You said “my Ravio” again, like you wrote on a note before our marriage. Don’t think you’re not as much to blame for this as I am.

I’m waiting for you, dear. I love you, too.

Your husband,

Ravio

#caramel writes #linked universe #albw #ravioli #new to posting on tumblr #so sorry if this looks weird lol #ravio x link #ravio x legend

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maple-the-awesome · 8 months

Text

While the Night is Young ||

Pairing: Legend x Reader

Words: 2,079

Requested by anonymous: Can I have a sad fic with Legend (LU) reminiscing about dancing with the reader on koholint? he's my fav so he has to suffer 😞 One mildly depressed Legend coming your way because everyone knows the first rule to being in a fandom is enjoying watching your favorite characters suffer go through character development 💜

Zelda Masterlist 💛 Fandom Masterlist

Crowds are never much fun. Who actually likes being sandwiched between sweaty bodies, constantly elbowed, stepped on, or tossed around by obvious idiots who only ever react with a half hearted apologies? It makes such a simple task like walking down the street a total nightmare, although there might be a good exception for it today given that it’s currently the summer solstice festival in this quaint little village the boys have recently stumbled across.

After many long days on the road, most could understand the heroes’ excitement upon seeing the then bare streets lined with wooden stalls and colorful banners overhead. A local explained the situation, promising plenty of fun games and unique carnival foods if the group decided to stay overnight when the festivities would begin. At that point, there was little choice in the matter. Seeing the expressed joy on many of the youngsters’ faces (a great contrast to their original wear earlier), Time just had to give in to their pleas, agreeing that a deserved break could do them some good.

So, as the sky began to mirror the colors of summer, from bright reds to pinkish purples, the once empty stalls began to open and the streets became filled with residents, many more than what was expected for such a small village.

Wind and Sky, determined to win their loved ones some adorable stuffed animals, have been taken to blowing all their rupees at different game booths. Four and Warrior, on the other hand, have made a full on competition of this activity, betting who can win the most games by the end of the night. They managed to drag Hyrule into the fun, too, but only because of his utter amazement with everything going on (after all, he’s never seen any festivals quite like this before).

Wild couldn’t show any restraint when teased by so many wonderful smelling foods, in fact he had already snuck away for something called a ‘corn dog’ before Time could even finish laying down the ground rules for how everyone was expected to behave. Fortunately, Twilight has since stayed close to his mentee’s side to prevent any disasters like Wild poisoning himself or setting fire somewhere. He also may or may not have allowed himself to be roped into trying some very questionable and overpriced snacks (but Twilight won’t admit that for the sake of his own dignity).

As for the Old Man himself, he seems to simply find joy in everyone else’s from afar, although overtime, a few of the boys have managed to get him directly involved in festivities, particularly Wind who insisted Time tries winning Malon an adorable stuffed alien from a shooting game (he succeed on his first attempt followed by many other effortless wins once he got addicted, much to the little sailor’s awe and jealousy).

The only hero to not partake in any aspect of the festival is Legend. Interestingly enough, such a colorful celebration has actually seemed to have the opposite effect on him compared to his brothers, resulting in quite the sour mood shown through his bitter scowl as he stands outside the crowd’s reach.

He curses himself for even bothering to leave the inn earlier, only having done so to shut up Warrior’s claims about him ‘pouting’ as he’s apparently been doing this entire week…Okay, so maybe Legend can internally admit that he hasn’t been exactly ‘overflowing with friendliness’ lately, but he refuses to say it’s because he’s ‘pouting’; that makes him sound childish. He’s not pouting, he’s sulking (big difference) and it has nothing to do with this festival. He just doesn’t care to lose the entire contents of his wallet to rigged games and food poisoning on a buttered stick, that’s all!

If that’s the case, one would think he’d just sneak back to the inn already. No one’s keeping him here on a leash, in fact most of the boys are too busy losing their patience playing ring toss to even notice whether Legend stays or goes. Why continue to stand around being unsociable in the background, grumbling against a wall as others clap and tap their feet to a melody currently played by musicians near the village fountain ahead, especially when it’s making him so grumpy?

“Don’t you just love music? It’s almost too beautiful to be real - at least I think so anyway.”

Legend glances to his side, curling his lip in poorly mocked disgust that earns him the undeserved gift of an angel’s laughter. Even after all these years of developing tough skin, he can’t stand strong against such a sound.

“Oh, don’t be like that! I’ve seen you playing some of those instruments of yours, so you must be a fan. How many do you own? Must be enough to open your own music shop by now,” You tease, your voice somehow becoming the only sound around him despite all those who stand practically shoulder-to-shoulder in front of you both singing and laughing loudly…yet even you pay no attention to them, your eyes locked solely on him as if he’s actually someone special.

“I don’t have that many.”

“Well, as someone who doesn’t even have one, I’d say it’s a lot,” You’ve never bothered with personal space, too used to knowing everyone to wonder why it would be important, thus you’ve always practiced the same beliefs around him, showing no care as you lean against the wall next him, letting your arms brush enough to make him flinch at first before ultimately relaxing.

“Is it because you’re shy? I mean, you have no reason to be since you play wonderfully, but I still get it if you are,” You theorize aloud, still stuck on the same topic Legend wishes you’d change. Surely there’s other things you’d be interested in aside from his personal life. He’s only a simple traveler, after all, although the more he thinks about it, that’s probably what appeals to you so much. He imagines it’s rough being stuck in one place your entire life, never knowing much about what lies beyond the horizon until a strange, stranger washes up at your feet.

“I’m not shy,” He rubs the back of his neck, glancing away from you when he decides eye contact is too bothersome, “I just like my privacy.”

You tilt your head cutely with a hum before gazing back into the crowd (much to his relief). For a long moment, you keep your eyes closed and listen to the music, waiting to break the comfortable silence between you both until the song changes into something slower and more intimate than the previous, “...Do you at least dance in front of others?”

“Dance?” He scoffs.

“Yes, dance! You know, that activity where you move your body to a particular rhyme? The thing Hylians usually do for fun? …Or are you unfamiliar with that word, ‘fun’?”

“I know it.”

“Oh, do you now?” You challenge, leaning forward in an attempt to catch his expression, yet he turns his body away while biting back his smirk which surely mirrors yours; he can hear it in your voice, “Show me then.”

“Show you?” He laughs, “What? You can’t just trust me?”

“Nope,” You pop the ‘p’ then roll your eyes when Legend dramatically grabs his chest and flops his head back against the stone wall (something he does with more force than intended, yet he forgets about the pain quickly).

“I’m hurt! Here I was thinking I’ve moved on from being a hostile in your eyes only for weeks of effort to swirl down the drain -!”

“- You’re not a hostile, just an idiot,” You push yourself off the wall and extend a hand to him, “Regardless, I’m afraid I’ll need a demonstration in order to believe you.”

Legend glances at your hand, biting down his nerves which he prays you don’t notice. It really is a simple request and it’s not like you’d both be alone. Other couples are already dancing, some showing creatively in how wildly they move while others move slowly as if joint as one…It shouldn’t be a big deal to take your hand, but for some reason it is, the thought making his heart race.

“Please, Link?”

Your eyes are pleading and soon he finds himself too weak to ignore them anymore. Reluctantly, he accepts your hand and puts up no further fight as you then eagerly drag him into the crowd.

Standing amongst all these people, Legend finds himself a bit bashful, wondering if perhaps this is going to be a mistake because surely if anyone notices you together, they’ll mention it later on and he’ll be forced to question exactly what this interaction means, but that’ll have to be a worry for later. Once you find a suitable spot close to the music, you turn around with a bright smile which is plenty to convince him it’s too late to back out; he’s already in too deep.

And so you both dance. Your hands placed upon his shoulders, his delicately holding your hips. You’re clearly no stranger to this art form, moving perfectly in sync with the rhythm while guiding Legend to do the same. He, himself, has danced plenty of times before during his journeys, but with you it feels different. It feels more special and natural with you as his partner. There’s a slowness to the world, one he feels all too often when in your presence yet this time, it’s amplified. He truly hears nothing from the crowd. Even the music is a distant echo completely overshadowed by your beauty as you sparkle under the colored lights above.

Legend normally isn’t one to let others close, often keeping them at arm's length in fear that nothing good will come from making friends, especially friends who he meets during his travels. You shouldn’t be different. He met you only weeks ago and isn’t quite sure how ‘visiting’ will work considering he ended up here by total accident. Despite every rational thought telling him he shouldn’t be getting his hopes up towards you, it’s all ignored when you allow him to twirl you around with ease until you return right back in front of him, the difference being you’re now closer, pressed against his chest instead of being kept at arm's length.

You’re intoxicating. Like an alcoholic who treasures his last beer bottle, Legend can’t seem to let you go. He can only find himself smiling in a dazed sort of way - dazed by you simply being you as you slip your hands down to his chest and rest your head upon his shoulder.

“...Can I say something that might sound weird?”

“Everything you say is weird.”

Despite his teasing tone, you move your head off his shoulder to look into his eyes with such a gentle smile that, for a second, he’s convinced he’ll melt, “I’m really happy you washed up on our shore. I…really like having you around.”

“I -...” The words feel trapped in his throat, wanting so desperately to be said as you wait patiently for some kind of response. He knows you won’t mind not getting one since you understand him as being the quiet type anyways, but regardless, “...I like being here with you, too.”

You beam - like a sun rising over the ocean, your eyes lit up and your smile glows. It not only means the world for you to hear that from the man who’s always been so reserved around you, but it’s also important for him to say himself. He really likes you. You’ve quickly become the music in his life - the rhythm he wants to forever move to and melody he wants to forever cherish. He’d be fine if you keep resting your head against him, humming along to the song that’ll forever haunt his mind…That’s how he wishes things had stayed.

In reality, he had remained silent that evening and for all those following, refusing an answer you unfortunately never pushed for. Maybe you already knew, maybe you didn’t, however neither outcome changes his inner desire for you nor the pain he feels every day without you by his side. He’s not sure what hurts the most anymore: the fact that you’re gone or the fact that you never existed to begin with. Now, he’ll never get to hold you again, never get a chance to swallow his fears and just confess his feelings to see how you would’ve reacted. All he gets is this agonizing memory that haunts him anytime he hears festival music similar to that night he spent with you during that summer solstice on Koholint…

#x reader #reader insert #lu legend x reader #legend of zelda x reader #legend of zelda #linked universe x reader #link x reader #linked universe

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breannasfluff · 8 months

Text

Four Rabbits Meet

I came across @minart-was-taken's post about Four Swords + Lorule Ravio and fell in love with the concept. For writing purposes I changed Blue's name to Cyan so it's not confused with the actual Four Colors. ~

“So!” Purple claps his hands together and gives the rest of the group a bright look. “Should we head back to Link’s place? There’s a portal near here we can hit up.”

Three identical faces in different colors stare back. A fourth stares at the clouds.

“Are you kidding me?” the newly dubbed Gold says. “We’re four separate people and whoever…that is”—he waves at the one staring at the sky—“instead of Ravio and you just want to move on with life? What about our treasure hunt?”

Purple’s smile is a little strained, but he still nods. “Standing out here in the woods isn’t doing us any good.

Cyan’s voice is barely above a whisper. “I don’t think taking this sword was a good idea.”

“But it’s treasure!” Gold immediately flips sides, examining the sword in his hand. “We could sell it.”

“It’s magical,” Cyan says.

“And there’s four of them. So, we get four times the profit. Hey, Pink, you don’t want your sword, right?”

Pink glances between all of them and curls deeper into his hood. “Shouldn’t we figure out how to be—Ravio again?”

They all turn and look at Cyan, who shrugs. If there’s a magical answer, he doesn’t know it.

Purple takes the lead. “Look, we aren’t going to solve this out here. Let’s head back to the house. Link’s been on so many adventures, I’m sure he’s heard of something like this.”

Gold rolls his eyes, but sets off down the path. Purple and Cyan fall in behind him. Only Pink stays where he is, until Purple glances back at him. “Pink? Coming?”

“What about him?”

Right. The fifth one. He nearly glows pale yellow, and he’s still staring at the clouds. Even with this whole mess, there’s no sword in his hand to match theirs. Also, he doesn’t seem to be the…brightest lantern in the bunch. Mostly, he ignores them.

Purple doesn’t even attempt a smile, just sighs and waves at Pink. “Mind grabbing him? Maybe you can think of a nickname for him.”

The color brightens and runs back to grab the fifth’s hand. It takes a few tugs, but he follows, placid enough.

With a final glance, Purple hurries down the path to rejoin Gold. A quick portal to Hyrule to figure this out and they can get back to their travels. Link will know what to do.

Link is not home. He’s gone on a journey for an unknown period of time. The note to Zelda on the table is already covered in a light layer of dust. Either she came and left, or hasn’t noticed Link is missing.

The four—five colors stand in a circle, staring at the note.

“Well, we better head out.” Purple really likes Link’s house, too. It’s nicer than Ravio’s.

“What? No, we aren’t leaving!” Gold snatches the note, then crumples it into a ball.

“But Link is gone! We can’t stay here without permission.”

Gold’s eyes take on the crafty gleam Ravio does whenever he’s about to make an excellent point. “Who would watch over Link’s stuff while he’s gone? What if someone breaks in? Look how dusty his house is! And with so many magical items…”

Purple can practically see the rupees in his eyes. Link better have magical items to come home to. “But permission…”

Slinging an arm around his shoulder, Gold steers him out of the kitchen. “We’re helping, Purple. Link will be happy! We’ll keep things clean and protected while he’s gone; maybe make him a little money. We don’t want him to lose his rent income now, do we?”

“We don’t pay rent,” Cyan points out. Gold stomps on his foot.

“Okay, we’ll stay. But if Link comes back and wants us to leave—”

“Yes, yes, we’ll deal with it then. Now, about that money…” Gold turns back to the front room and—yep, he’s out.

Pink is still in the kitchen, holding onto the fifth one’s arm.

“Got a name for him?” Purple asks as he comes back in. He might as well make some tea; they need it.

The color perks up and nods. “Gleam! You like that, don’t you?”

Gleam stares at him and blinks slowly. “Link?”

“Link’s gone,” Purple says. He waits till the teapot is full before continuing. “We’re going to keep the place clean for him till he comes back.”

“Back?”

“…yes. When Link comes back.” He turns to Pink with a frown. “He understands Hylian, doesn’t he?”

Pink gasps and clings to Gleam’s arm. “Of course he does!” Then he turns to Gleam. “You do…don’t you?”

Gleam stares at him a touch too long, then nods. Lolia, is he that dense, or just an airhead? Well, Pink needs something to do, so— “You mind watching over Gleam for me? Sure would be a help.”

The color’s face lights and, wow, is that what Ravio looks like when he’s happy? Huh. It’s not a bad expression. “I can help! Leave it to me!” Then he turns to Gleam and squeezes his hand. “Don’t worry, I’ve got you.”

Pink may have Gleam, but who’s got Purple? Why did today have to be the day the goddess pulled Link onto a new journey?

Something crashes in the front room and Gold screeches about merchandise. Right. Because Ravio as a whole is cursed.

Sighing, Purple pulls out more teacups. They are going to need it.

The following weeks bring them no closer to figuring out how to rejoin. Purple takes over running the shop—he looks the most like Ravio. While their robes changed color when they split, there’s still an extra robe he wears.

Looks-wise, it’s not a problem. Money-wise…well, Purple just wants to help people! And sometimes that means giving them a good deal. Gold loses his temper the first time he checks the books and starts training Purple on how to barter—or at least not give items away.

Link returns and Purple finds himself at sword-point from a variety of strangers. The other colors are out for the day; Cyan wanted to practice some spells with the swords. The hero doesn’t even seem pleased with his unexpected guest. Really! Who does he think dusted everything?

Purple draws on every acting skill he has—and channels a lot of Gold—to make it through the conversation long enough to get official permission to stay. Link has a new nickname, Legend, and the one called Four has a sword that looks suspiciously familiar.

The group is there for barely an hour before someone yells about a portal. Link—Legend switches out more items in a hurry and shoves the extra into Purple’s arms. “Don’t sell these!” Then he squints at him. “And stop being weird around my family. Just be yourself.”

Time calls for him and Purple is left standing in an empty house.

“Link came back.” Purple explains the short encounter to the other colors when they return.

“Why didn’t you tell him what happened?” Cyan comes back with two cups of tea and passes one to Purple.

“You think Link would believe him without all of us there?”

Pink sits on the floor and leans back. “So, what do we do now?”

“We’ve got each other.” Purple puts his cup down and brushes off his robe. “Either we figure out how to become Ravio again before Mr. Hero returns, or we figure out how to adapt and live like this. That hero, Four, had a sword similar to the one we found. If we have to, we’ll wait till they come back and ask.”

There are nods and smiles from all the colors. It’s not much of a plan but—well, it will have to do for now.

Gleam steps forward and shoves a handful of berries in Purple’s hands. “For you.”

“Gleam, these are poisonous.”

The color just gives him a thumbs up, because of course he does.

Gleam is my special little problem child. We'll see this group pop up a few more times for flufftober as well!

#flufftober2023 #1-I've Got You #Four Rabbits AU #linked universe #linkeduniverse #lu flufftober #breannasfluff #mywriting #ravio #albw ravio #lu ravio #fr gleam #fr gold #fr pink #fr purple #fr cyan #lu legend

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skyward-floored · 2 months

Note

For prompts Link loving/collecting shiny treasures please? I feel like I remember you saying that he doesn’t necessarily hoard things but I love the idea of him liking fun trinkets and treasure like a dragon might

Tysm <333

Mask looks curiously at a strange rod with what looks like a wave on the top as the captain wanders deeper into the tent, and Tune lingers at the front, watching the rain pour outside.

“...got all sorts of items at a discount, badges, arrows, bombs with extra powder... I’ve even got some special potions in from the apothecary!” Ravio continues as he waves items in Tune’s face, and Tune rolls his eyes.

“Ravio, we’re just in here to get out of the rain, we don’t want any of your over-expensive items,” Tune says with a huff, and Ravio hums, tapping his hand on the counter.

“You sure Mr. Sailor Hero? Not even a nice gift for that lovely pirate friend of yours? I’ve got a few knives here—”

“No,” Tune says pointedly, and the strange bunny merchant sighs.

“Well all right, but you don’t know what you’re missing— Mr. Captain Hero! I see you’ve found something to catch your eye!”

The captain had been crouching down and looking at a shelf, and at Ravio’s call he jumps like he’s been caught doing something he shouldn’t have. Tune moves closer to look at the object Link had been looking at.

It was a small piece of dark purple stone, in an unusual shape, almost like a crescent. It shines in the lantern light when Tune picks it up, a small hole in the top, a shiny purple gleam running across the surface.

“This is really pretty,” Tune says, and Link scratches the back of his neck, looking embarrassed.

“Yeah, I guess so. It’s just a rock though, and I don’t have the rupees, so...”

“How much?” Tune asks Ravio. The captain balks.

“Tune, I don’t need a—”

“Consider it an early birthday present,” Tune says with a hand wave, and ignores Link’s mutter of how his birthday was a few months ago, turning back to Ravio. “So? How much?”

Ravio leans on his counter, scratching the little bird that keeps him company under the chin.

“For you?” he says, and Tune is sure he’s grinning under his hood. “A mere 8,000 rupees.”

“Eight thousand?” Mask shouts, stomping up to the counter. “That’s highway robbery and you know it!”

“I have to keep this business running somehow,” Ravio shrugs.

Tune crosses his arms. “Five hundred.”

Ravio gasps. “A mere five hundred? Mr. Sailor Hero you wound me, do you know the effort I went through to retrieve this item? The sweat I shed? The tears I shed?”

Tune snorts. “You probably found it on the ground somewhere, Ravio. One thousand.”

Ravio crosses his arms. “Six thousand.”

“A thousand five hundred.”

“Five thousand.”

“A thousand seven fifty.”

“...four thousand.”

Tune slams a bag of rupees on the counter. “Two thousand, take it or leave it.”

Ravio stares at him in silence, a hand thoughtfully rubbing his chin. Then his hand shoots out and takes the bag.

“Deal.”

Tune nods, and swipes the shiny purple stone, turning away from Ravio. “Thank you very much. And now that the rain has stopped, we will be going.”

Mask nods decisively, and the captain follows him and Tune out of the tent, Tune setting the stone in his hand.

“You didn’t have to do that,” the captain says gratefully, and Tune shrugs, a grin twitching at his lip.

“It’s no big deal. Turns out yellow rupees are worth way more here then in my time, so I’m basically loaded,” Tune grins, and Mask laughs, Link shaking his head with an amused smile. “So, is there a reason this caught your eye?”

Link shrugs, stepping around a puddle as he admires the stone.

“I found a few like it when I was in Skyloft, but in a different color. They’re all orange, and I’d never seen a purple one until now, and it’s shiny in a different way, I... thought it was nice,” he mumbles.

Tune holds back another smile. He’s well aware of the captain’s little collection of treasures. And he’d noticed he hadn’t been able to add anything to it recently, so the sudden rainstorm where the only shelter was Ravio’s tent just happened to be good luck.

“Well I’m glad you like it,” Tune says as he stretches his arms behind his head. “Happy birthday.”

Link laughs. “Thanks sailor.”

#answers from the floor #lovely adrift in thyme #hdw au #hyrule warriors #writing from the floor #dum dum dum #ravio jumpscare

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adrift-in-thyme · 5 months

Text

@skyward-floored remember that anon asking about a birthday fic yesterday? That was me :D

I wrote you a little something to celebrate your special day! I hope you like it!

Happy Birthday!! 🎈🎉

Ao3 link

———————————

Normally, Warriors would leave a guy to think. After all, he knows better than anyone the way working in a group can become a bit…suffocating. Being constantly surrounded by people will grow inevitably exhausting. It’s only right for one to go off on their own, seeking out some blessed solitude.

So, normally, if he had come across a certain hero sitting beside a quaint little stream, he would leave him to his duck watching and his thoughts and collapse onto his bedroll. But he has just come upon a certain hero sitting by a quaint little stream and he looks so absolutely pitiful that Warriors swears that he’s impersonating a kicked puppy.

And he can’t just leave him there, all sad and hunched over and shivery.

(Time and Arty are right, he guesses, he’s a hopeless softy.)

So, he sets aside his dreams of turning in early and starts toward him.

“Rupee for your thoughts, rancher?” He calls once he is within hearing distance.

Twilight startles and turns, blinking rapidly as though that will free him from his daze. Warriors keeps an easy grin on his face as his eyes roam the hero, cataloging what he sees.

Flushed cheeks, a light sheen of sweat on the brow, tremors running through the body, a glazed look in the eyes…and now a painfully hoarse voice as the rancher croaks his name in greeting. The captain suppresses a sigh. There can’t be any doubt about it, the rancher is sick.

He should’ve seen that coming — honestly, he had, though he’d shoved the suspicion back behind countless other strategies and worries and tasks. But he knows he isn’t the only one who picked up on Twilight’s less than perky attitude these past days. He had lagged behind the rest of the group, opting to plod along beside Sky instead of his usual place by Wild’s side. And that alone had arisen Warriors’ suspicions.

But he doesn’t comment about all that just yet. Even when Twilight turns away from him to cough harshly into his elbow. Wordlessly, he settles down beside him.

“You alright, Twi?”

He sets a steadying hand on his back as the coughs subside. Twilight takes a minute to catch his breath, his shudders growing more violent. But the glare he dredges up is no less severe than his usual.

“I’m not sick if-if that’s what you’re thinking.”

Warriors chuckles. “Well, now I’m thinking maybe you are. Because I alluded to no such thing.”

Twilight hums, looking completely unconvinced. Warriors doesn’t miss the way he leans into his touch, however, or the way his next exhale trembles. And he certainly can’t ignore it when, surreptitiously, he moves closer.

“I should’ve brought a blanket,” Warriors comments, mildly, when a few quiet moments have slid by. “You seem a bit cold. Too bad I left my scarf back at the camp.”

Twilight huffs a sigh. It quickly turns into another explosion of coughs.

“You should be back at the camp,” he grumbles, when he can once again drag in air, “not hanging around me. You’re gonna catch somethin’.”

A smirk lifts Warriors’ lips. “Ah, but I could’ve sworn that I just heard you claim that you weren’t sick.”

He senses more than sees Twilight’s eyes go wide. Then, the rancher lets out an annoyed groan.

“I swear y-you’re as bad as the old man.”

“Oh no, I can be worse.”

Another series of shiver races through him and Twilight ends up slumped against Warriors’ left side, teeth chattering audibly.

“S-somehow…I can believe that.”

Warriors chuckles. Carefully, he slides an arm around Twilight, holding him close. The hero practically melts into him.

“It’s a beautiful night at least,” the captain murmurs, gazing up above them.

The sky glows with the beginnings of twilight. Orange and purple and pink travel in streaks of dazzling fire across a canvas of deep blue. Upon the water, the display wavers, like paints just barely mixed upon a palette.

The air is temperate too, a warm breeze blowing through like a caress. He can’t help but be thankful for it. He’s almost certain that they all have had to endure sickness in a less than forgiving climate. In such circumstances, things seldom go well.

(He can’t help but think of Mask’s tale, told haltingly late at night after a dreadful nightmare. A tale of climbing a mountain with frostbitten feet and fingers and collapsing shivering and feverish at the door of a blacksmith’s hut.)

“Captain,” Twilight pipes up beside him, the word sounding positively painful, “do…do you ever feel a certain sadness at this time of day?”

Warriors hums, dragging himself from his thoughts. Something about that sentence sparks a memory within him, of a princess of twilight with the body of an imp and a heart of gold kept carefully concealed.

“I suppose so. Why?”

Twilight is smiling slightly when he looks at him, and there is sorrow in the expression.

“There’s another realm out there…”

“The Twilight realm.”

Twilight starts up, feverish gaze landing on Warriors. The captain laughs.

“Yes, I know of it. I knew it’s princess, as a matter of fact. We fought together during the war.”

Suddenly, Twilight looks more alert than he has all night. But then he shudders again and nearly loses his balance. Warriors pulls him close again, wrapping him in a half-hug.

“Midna? Y-you knew Midna?”

“I did.” The captain smiles, fondly. “She was a ferocious fighter…and a good friend. Though” — A teasing grin lifts his lips as he looks down at his brother “ — I always wondered why she chose to ride a wolf of all things into battle.

“But it makes a little more sense now.”

Even through his pallor, he can see Twilight’s cheeks flush. His face is a hurricane of emotion that Warriors feels he has little right to see. So, he turns back to the pond and watches as twilight overtakes the light of day.

“Did-did she mention me at all?” Twilight murmurs, finally.

Warriors cocks his head, weighing which words are best.

“No — not to me at least. But I think Midna was one who liked to keep things close to the vest. I think the wolf she rode was her way of…saying that she missed you.”

Twilight is silent for a few moments. Quiet reigns over the small clearing, save for the sounds of the rancher’s slightly congested breathing.

He should get him back to camp, Warriors thinks, get him some warm blankets and a potion and maybe some of Wild’s soup. But Twilight speaks up before he can voice any of those thoughts.

“I’m glad you got to meet her.” There is a tremulous smile in those words, a strength that the rancher always possesses, even when his energy is drained. “She…she was really somethin’ else.”

“Indeed she was.”

Twilight moves closer, resting his head on Warriors’ shoulder, and Warriors can’t help but feel that some unseen boundary has been broken from between them. Perhaps, this secret had weighed more heavily on the rancher than he had thought.

Well, that and the uncertainty of the princess’ feelings for him. That shattered mirror Twilight had spoken of hadn’t been the only thing broken.

“You know,” he says, as Twilight’s eyelids begin to droop, “next time you’re sick and missing your girlfriend, maybe just talk to someone instead of sitting out here all miserable and alone. I know a certain someone would call you an idiot for doing so.”

Twilight chuckles.

“She would, wouldn’t she?” He chokes out between hacking coughs. “She never held back.”

“No, she really didn’t.”

Warriors holds his trembling shoulders until the coughs are gone again. Then, he pats his shoulder.

“Alright, rancher, let’s get you back. You need your rest.”

Reluctantly, Twilight allows the captain to help him to his feet. He leans heavily against him, exhaustion dragging at his feet. And as the first star blinks itself awake, Warriors turns them toward the warmth of the campfire and their brothers’ company.

The shadows themselves seem to gather in their wake, a protection and an embrace.

#idk when your actual birthday is #but I know it must be close since December’s nearly over #so I thought I’d just publish this now #trin writes #ficlet #linked universe #linked universe fic #lu twilight #lu warriors #sick fic #hurt/comfort #light angst #fluff #midlink #mostly just implied but still

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dark-angel-of-muses · 7 months

Text

A Selkie and A Succubus

A03 Link

"Linkkkkkkk. I'm hungry." Ravio's tail batted insistently against the selkie's leg, draping himself over Link's shoulder.

"Can't wait?" Link leveled a flat stare at his boyfriend. Ravio's little bat wings fluttered impatiently, and he made a big show of pouting.

"Fine. Here." Link set down the skillet he was frying eggs on and kissed the succubus on the cheek. Ravio trilled in delight. "Thanks for the snack."

Such a glutton. Link had given him sleepy cuddles this morning for a full hour. That was basically a three course meal for the succubus. Sure, the food might be more mild than others of his kind went for, but Ravio had admitted to never wanting anything spicier than some kisses. Even then, he preferred neck kisses to mouth kisses, citing grossness.

Even after getting his snack, Ravio clung to Link like a koala, tail snaking around his leg and squeezing in a miniature hug. Link rolled his eyes, but smiled all the same. Ravio was such a cuddle bug, in a way Link was 100% sure had nothing to do with the sustenance he got from affection.

“You’re going to have to get dressed and go to work eventually.”

“Nooooo,” Ravio whined, curling his tail tighter. “Sleep. And food.” His wings fluttered behind him.

“Guess that means we won’t have any rupees to spend on a date night this week,” Link teased. “I’ll just have to leave you all alone while I go dungeon crawling to pay for your lazy days.”

“Ugh. You’re the worst.” Ravio pouted, puffing out his cheeks and making sad puppy eyes. Still, the promise of money and dates was enough to spur him into his morning routine, pulling off oversized pajamas and donning his usual purple robes. There was a slit in the robes for his tail to curl out, and the back had been cut out from his shoulder blades to mid-back to make room for his wings.

“See, was that so hard?”

“Your eggs are burning.”

“Shit!”

xxx

Ravio’s Rabbit Rentals was a two person outfit. Link explored dungeons, killed monsters, and collected everything that caught his interest while exploring. Then, Ravio would take the spoils and do his best to rent or sell Link’s items to any less experienced adventurers wanting an edge in their own quests. Link would complain that he did all the hard work while Ravio just stole his things to sell, but it was all for show. He wanted nothing to do with customer service or figuring out the market on how much magical items would be worth. Not to mention Ravio actually had to go out and do collection runs to get his rentals back, which seemed like no fun. So for all Link would whine, he was quite happy with the arrangement.

Ravio had a winning smile and perfect suck-up tone when he was on the clock.

“You seem ruggedly handsome, like you could climb the cliffs of Death Mountain alone! With the Tornado Rod to help speed things along, I’m sure you could tackle the Tower of Hera.”

“Oh, you look so clever, Miss. Why not take a bomb bag rental? You seem like you could find so many ways to use them.”

Link didn’t get it, but he was happy he didn’t have to.

Some time later, Link was doing basic weapon maintenance, sharpening swords, refilling the mana on enchanted rings, when he heard it.

“You’re the local succubus, right?” A woman’s voice sounded.

“Ravio of Ravio’s Rabbit Rentals, that’s me! Would you be interested in our wares? I have a lovely fire rod with your name on it!” So overzealous in his sales pitches, that one.

“Actually, I was more interested in a service you provide.” Her tone was sultry, making Link roll his eyes. Sometimes customers would come in and try to flirt. Ravio usually took advantage of their interest to make them leave with arms full and wallets empty.

“A service? Oh, are you looking to rent? Or perhaps pawn, we are willing to do minor loans for dungeon loot!” Did they do pawn services? Eh, best not to think about it. Ravio was just responsible enough for Link to let him handle the business without oversight. Emphasis on ‘just enough’.

“I’m looking to rent,” The customer purred. Honest to god purred. Like a cat. Was she a werebeast? Link couldn’t help but peek his head from around the corner. Nope. Vampire. So she was just shameless.

“Well, if you want an itemized list of all rentals we have available or are expecting back within the next two weeks, I can go get the inventory log for you-”

“Oh I’m not looking for something in inventory. I’m looking to rent some time with you.” There was the sound of shuffling and cloth meeting cloth. Was she backing Ravio into a table?

“O-oh. Um. I don’t really? Do that sort of thing?” Ravio squeaked.

“C’mon, you’re a succubus. You’re going to say no to money and food? I heard you’d do anything for a quick rupee.” If it were in any other context, Link would agree. Ravio would probably eat glass for five rupees. But with the terrible flirtatious tone she was using…

Ok, that was it, Link was stepping in. “Excuse me, can I help you?” He made sure to bring his sword with him, and intentionally sheathed and unsheathed it to make an audible shink, smiling as the woman flinched back. Ravio let out an audible sigh of relief as he walked in.

“Huh? You didn’t tell me there were other people in here!” She looked accusingly at Ravio.

“Oh, did you not hear? This is my partner and supplier, Link. He is the source for all our wares. He’s braved Lynels, hordes of Daira, and even fell the evil sorcerer who kidnapped the princess some years back. He’s very talented.” Ravio took the chance to slip away from the customer’s reach and hide behind Link, reaching to squeeze Link’s right hand.

“Sorry about not finding what you want here. Ravio has a discerning palate.” Link smirked as she caught the underhanded insult, mouth opening and closing like a fish. To punctuate his point, Link leaned over and gave Ravio a peck on the cheek, never taking his eyes off the vampire.

If she had blood left in her veins, her face probably would have paled. Instead, her eyes just widened and she hurried to make her leave, accidentally stubbing her toe on the leg of a table in her scramble to leave as fast as possible.

“Thanks for the help, Link.” Ravio returned the kiss on the cheek, smiling gratefully.

“No problem. I swear, your customers get the dumbest ideas.”

“I mean, I get it. I’m not really normal,” Ravio sighed, eyes cast to the floor.

“Hey, hey. What do I keep telling you? There’s nothing wrong with you.” Link cupped his hands under Ravio’s chin and gently pulled his gaze back up. “You can eat or not eat whatever you want, nobody else gets uppity about food preferences.”

“I know, I know,” Ravio put his hand over Link’s leaning his cheek into the touch. “Sometimes it’s just hard to remember when people like her come in. And it’s not like I avoid it, I know I get close to customers when I make sales pitches.”

“Hey, calling someone handsome or pretty is by no means free reign for someone to come in and ask for ‘services’.” Link pushed his forehead against Ravio’s. “Are you ok? Do you need to close the shop early?”

“No, I’m fine, thanks to you.” Ravio leaned in for a quick peck on the lips. “Thank you for saving me, Mr. Hero.”

xxx

"That pelt you're wearing around your shoulders, it's selkie, right?"

Ravio shifted uncomfortably. Two belligerent customers in one day? Seriously? "Ah, yes, but-"

"I'll pay top rupee if you're willing to part with it. Those go for high prices, even without the monster they're attached to. I mean, that's potentially eternal servitude right there. Not to mention how high quality the magic inside is." When he had first seen the man come in, his thick wallet had excited Ravio. Now, dread was pooling in his stomach.

"This isn't for sale, but maybe I can point you to some wonderful magic tunics from the depths of a dungeon?" Ravio forced a smile on his face, trying to redirect.

"Hah, don't you worry. I'll spend enough to buy you a legion of servants to replace your selkie. If you need him for the food, I can ensure you'll be feasting on the finest love money can buy."

Ravio's eye twitched. "I don't need servants, and I'm perfectly content with my eating arrangement as is. Please look only at wares on display. Otherwise I'll need to ask you to leave."

"Now, now. Everyone has some price. Please, ask for anything your heart desires, I can make it happen-"

Ravio's tail snapped in anger, hitting the table next to him. "Sir. The thing my heart desires most in this moment is for you to shut the hell up, buy something that's actually for sale, then leave and never come back to my house again. If you want a selkie pelt so badly, go scrape up some stinking dignity and convince someone to give theirs to you. I doubt you ever can because you think no matter how atrocious you are, you can pay to make up for it. There's not enough rupees in the world that would ever have me tied to a sniveling, old money brat who waves around his wealth to make up for the inadequacy of every other thing about him. So either get something that actually has a price tag, or get out."

The man sputtered, red in the face. He tried and failed to make a comeback, then angrily tried to yank the pelt around Ravio's shoulders. Really? Stealing? Ravio stepped back, and whistled for backup. Sheerow swooped in, pecking the man relentlessly.

"Ow! Owowowowow!" The little white bird pecked the man onto the welcome mat and out the door, slamming the door behind him for good measure.

"You're such a good business partner, you know that?" His friend landed in his cupped palms, and chirped happily as Ravio snuggled him close to his face.

“That was kinda hot.” Link was leaning against the door frame, a grin splitting his face. Ravio flushed red and jumped, realizing he wasn’t alone.

“Ah! Sorry you had to see that. Do you want your pelt back?” Ravio adjusted the pelt around his shoulders. When they first started dating, Link gave it to him as a sign of trust. Link would still take it with him when he needed to swim in the oceans, but most of the time he left the soft pink fur in Ravio’s hands. Still, there were some nights when Link would take the pelt and hold it close to his chest, eyes foggy with awful memories. Ravio wanted him to feel safe and secure; his Hero deserved that much.

“Why would I? Clearly it's in good hands.” Link sauntered over and kissed into his hair. The succubus’ tail flicked and his wings fluttered. Link’s kisses were always so delicious; his boyfriend spoiled him with how well he ate.

“I won’t let anyone else touch it. You’re so important to me, you know that?” Ravio looked up at Link, feeling the affection burning in his chest. “Even if I’m a coward, I’ll still protect it with my life.”

“I know you will.” Link’s voice was filled with so much love and trust, Ravio felt the satiation of fullness as he drank up the words.

Ravio truly was blessed.

#raviolink #ravio #ravioli #ravio x link #lu legend #linked universe #loz ravio #lu ravio #muse writes #muse's ravioli week #fanfic #albw ravio #ravio zelda #seelies and selkies #Protective boyfriends #Loving relationship #alternate universe - monsters

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link-is-a-dork · 1 month

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"You got a Purple Rupee! It's worth 50 Rupees! Your face is beaming!"

#Legend of Zelda Series #Majora's Mask #mm3d #Link #MM Link #Deku Link #Nintendo #Nintendo 3ds #gif #2024 #liad post #text #mm link 3ds #deku link 3ds

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minty-mumbles · 10 months

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Marks on Your Body, Marks on Your Soul

Summary: Wind was part of the largest soulmate group that Outset Island had seen in nearly a century. There were eight people in his soulgroup. Nine, including him. Eight corresponding little marks were inked onto the skin of his forearm. Eight precious marks that symbolized that he was going to be so, so loved.

(Read on AO3 here) (There's also a bonus Warriors angst scene in the notes that I couldn't fit into the fic)

~~~

Wind was part of the largest soulmate group that Outset Island had seen in nearly a century. There were eight people in his soulgroup. Nine, including him. Eight corresponding little marks were inked onto the skin of his forearm. Eight precious marks that symbolized that he was going to be so, so loved.

In another rarity, not one of his eight soulmates lived on Outset Island. It was a small island, and while Wind hadn’t seen everyone’s soulmarks- some people liked to keep them private- they wouldn’t have been able to keep it a secret. Everyone knew everyones’ business on Outset. If one of the island’s residents was one of Wind’s soulmates, the rumors of someone else with eight soulmarks would have spread to him when he was still a young child.

So, Wind was an anomaly, but he didn’t mind. Those eight little marks that symbolized his soulmates were something to be cherished, even if they made him an oddity.

His first soul mark, the one nearest to his hand, was some kind of red bird with its wings stretched wide in flight. Wind had never seen a bird like that before, and even his Granny didn’t recognize it. Wind thought it must mean that this soulmate was from some faraway island with animals and birds that no one on Outset Island had ever seen before.

The next seemed to be a coin of some sort. It was split into four sections, with each section a different color, green, blue, red, and purple. It looked nothing like the rupees Wind was familiar with, but maybe this soulmate was from a distant land too?

Below the coin was a simple blue ocarina. Wind wondered what it meant or symbolized, Perhaps they were a musician? Wind had always smiled at the thought. He always loved listening to music, even if he couldn’t play an instrument himself. Maybe his soulmate would teach him how to play!

Next was a profile of the dog's head, thrown back and mouth open as if caught in the moment of a triumphant howl. (Something had always rubbed him wrong, thinking about this mark as a dog. It looked like a dog, but something about that seemed off to Wind. This animal was no tame beast.)

The next mark was a small pink rabbit, sitting up on its hind legs. Wind’s Granny had cooed over this particular mark plenty of times when he was a child, remarking that whoever it belonged to must be a very kind individual. Wind wasn’t so sure about that, the rabbit might be cute, but the way it defiantly stared back at Wind made him think twice about calling this soulmate soft.

Below the rabbit was a picture of a fairy. It was green, which was an unusual color for a fairy, but other than that looked pretty standard. Maybe this soulmate was a healer?

Next was a silver sword, wrapped in a piece of blue fabric. It was the most cryptic mark of them all, revealing the least about the person it belonged to, other than the fact perhaps they were good at fighting. Wind wondered, often, what the blue fabric symbolized.

The last mark, which was nearly nestled into the crook of his elbow, was a bow with an arrow drawn and ready to fire. When Wind had been young, he’d thought the mark was laid over a background of red. When he’d grown up, though, he realized that it wasn't simply a background of red, it was blood, a large splatter of blood. That mark had always made his Granny nervous, but it had never bothered Wind.

He’d spent long hours staring at these marks in wonder as he grew up. Daydreams of what his soulmates would be like were constant. Every time a ship arrived at Outset with new people aboard, Wind would be there, trying to sneak a glimpse of their forearms. Even the trading ships that came biweekly would draw Wind down to the docks, just in case there was someone new aboard he hadn’t met before- someone who shared seven of the same marks with him.

Of course, if his marks were romantic none of the sailors would ever be his soulmates as they were much older than Wind. But with such a large soulgroup, odds were that his bonds were platonic, and there were no age restrictions for platonic soulmates.

~~~

With such a large group of soulmates, Wind couldn’t just refer to them as “his soulmates.” It quickly became cumbersome, when speaking about his soulmarks, to constantly have to clarify which one he meant. It didn’t take long for him to come up with nicknames.

It wasn’t a strange thing to do, especially for those who had more than one soulmark.

Feathers, for the red bird. Then Coin, Ocarina, and Doggy, which soon evolved into Dog as he grew older. Bunny, which quickly became Rabbit.

Flicker for the fairy, after that way fairies flitted around when they flew, and the way their light would flicker like a candle. And finally, Sword and Bow. Most of the nicknames were simplistic and not at all creative but Wind had been four when he’d made them, so he cut himself some slack.

~~~

When Wind is seven, Dog’s soulmark changes.

It’s an insane thing to say- soulmarks don’t change. The only change that a mark should ever undergo was fading away to gray when your soulmate died. Other than that, they were set in stone.

But it was undeniable. One day when he went to sleep, the mark was of a brown dog. When he woke up, the dog was gray, with new markings that hadn’t been there before. Startled by the change, he ran to show his Granny.

At first, she’d been horrified to hear her grandchild shouting about a changed soumark and see unexpected gray on his arm. But it soon became apparent that the mark had not faded to death-gray. The eyes of the animal were still a brilliant blue.

His Granny had scrubbed at his forearm in a basin of water so hard his arm had turned red. When she finally admitted that the mark truly had changed, and Wind hadn’t simply managed to color it somehow, she had insisted he not tell anyone of this development, not even his little sister.

Frightened by her intensity, Wind had agreed.

Granny inspected his marks daily after that. It took months for her to be satisfied they would stay the way they were.

~~~

A year later, Wind noticed that Flicker’s mark had changed as well. Previously, it had been a simple fairy. Now, the yellow symbol of the triforce glimmered faintly from the center of the fairy’s glow. It was barely noticeable unless you squinted.

Wind, remembering how Granny had fretted and stressed over Dog’s soulmark, kept his mouth shut. The yellow of the triforce was so subtle that no one who wasn’t closely inspecting it would notice it, so he was able to keep this new change secret, even from his grandmother.

~~~

The night before Wind turned twelve, he lay awake shivering in bed. It wasn’t a cold night- quite the opposite, in fact.

But something felt… wrong.

It felt like someone was watching him. He’d checked and it wasn’t Arryl, who was deeply asleep. Granny was sleeping in the other room, so it wasn’t her. Still, he couldn’t shake the feeling that something was very wrong.

With nothing to justify the dread he was feeling, Wind lay awake in bed, unable to sleep. He drew his blanket over his head like he was five again and hiding from monsters. The feeling of dread persisted, not allowing him to slip into the comfort of sleep.

As his mind often did in quiet, solitary moments like these, it turned toward the topic of his soulmarks. Since the changes in two of his marks nearly six years ago, he’d grown to understand just how strange the fact that his marks had changed was.

Wind had never heard of anyone’s marks changing. When he was eight, he’d gotten it in his mind to run around Outset Island and ask everyone he could find if they’d ever heard stories about soulmarks changing. The answers were always a resounding no.

When Granny had eventually heard what he’d been doing, she'd given him a stern reprimand. He understood now why she was so strict about not telling people that his marks had changed. People weren’t kind to those they saw as different or strange. It was probably a very fortunate thing no one had ever noticed the change in his marks.

Wind didn’t know what people would do if they noticed, but he couldn’t imagine it would be pretty.

Wind worried about his marks often. He worried about what might happen if someone noticed that two of them had changed. (Unlikely after all this time, but all it would take was one person who had been there when Wind was born and had inspected his marks asking why the dog wasn’t brown like they remembered.)

He worried about what it meant that Dog and Flicker’s marks had changed. Was it possible that they would change again in the future? Would his other marks change? Was it possible that the marks had changed because the gods had messed up his marks, and maybe he wasn’t meant to be with these soulmates after all?

Wind had nightmares, sometimes. That one day he would wake up and his marks would be gone. That he would meet his soulmates, and they wouldn't have any mark representing him on their forearms.

He tried his best to ignore those dreams.

When midnight had long since come and gone and the feeling of dread and anticipation still haunted him, Wind thought it might be a good idea to clear his head. The night air might help. Maybe he should head to the lookout, he thought. He would be able to watch the stars easier from there, and no one would bother him if he ended up falling asleep.

~~~

Wind turned twelve, and everything went horribly, utterly wrong.

After Arryl had been taken and he’d set out on his quest to save her, Wind hadn’t bothered to look at his soulmarks much. He didn’t forget they were there! No one could forget their soulmates.

It was just… they’d become less important in the face of the possibility of losing his sister. She was out there, possibly in danger, possibly dead, and Wind was pretty sure his soulmarks weren’t going to go away anytime soon. He hadn’t even met any of them yet. He couldn’t afford to spend his time thinking about them when he didn’t even know what they looked like.

Then he’d gone to Fire Mountain to get the power bracelets.

Even with the aid of the ice arrows that kept the volcano from erupting, the heat was nearly unbearable. It felt like if he stayed on the island for too long, the very air itself would burn his skin.

That didn’t happen, thankfully. But what did happen was almost worse.

Fighting off the fire bats so he could reach the power bracelets had been the most annoying part of the island. There were several of them, coming one right after another, but they weren’t that strong. He’d been careless, more focused on avoiding plunging himself into lava than the swooping bats overhead.

His carelessness had earned him a few burns. He hadn’t thought much about the burns at the time besides pushing away the pain. Getting the power bracelets and getting out before the ice arrows wore off was more important than fussing over some small injuries.

Later, when his adrenaline had faded and he was safe enough to look over his injuries, he realized where exactly the burns were, and Wind had never felt more horrified and sick to his stomach in his life. The burn wrapped around the back of Wind’s left arm. One edge of the burned skin stopped less than a quarter of an inch away from Rabbit’s mark.

Wind ended up using the only fairy he had to heal the burns. It was a waste of resources, probably, but Wind couldn't help it. He hadn’t wanted to heal it naturally and risk infection or something similar worsening the injury. He couldn’t live with the possibility of it leaving a scar. He couldn’t risk it. Not so close to one of his marks.

What would happen if the burn had been placed just a few inches to the right? It could have ruined Rabbit’s mark. It wouldn’t have affected his bond with his soulmate.

He’d heard stories about people whose marks got burned off or scarred over before- it wasn’t something that was unheard of. In many of the stories, the injured party still managed to find their soulmate in the end, but it was more difficult to do so when you didn’t have a mark for your soulmate to identify with. It left the burden of finding your soulmate entirely on you, saddling you with the responsibility of recognizing the mark that represented you.

It also left you with no way to tell if your soulmate had died.

After that, Wind started to pay more attention while he fought. He was more careful with guarding his left arm, and he inspected his marks more often. Just as reassurance. Just to remind him that even if everything went wrong, somewhere out in the world there were eight people waiting for him.

~~~

It was this new caution that led him to discover an interesting quirk of Coin’s soulmark. Wind was sure this was a recent development, as he would have noticed this when he was a kid and still enamored with his soulmarks.

Wind had never heard of anything like this happening, but… his fourth soulmark changed, sometimes. He was sure of it- had even seen it happen once. The difference was so small that no one besides himself would ever notice, and he kept his mouth shut about it.

He knew two of his other marks had changed when he was little, but for the most part, Wind was able to delude himself. Perhaps he had misremembered the color of the dog or had simply never noticed the triforce hidden in the green fairy until he was eight. Perhaps those marks hadn’t changed at all.

But this…

He couldn’t lie to himself about this.

He didn’t know what it meant, but every so often, the four sections of the coin would separate, showing the smallest sliver of his skin between the marks, clearly showing that there were four separate soulmarks instead of the usual one.

He didn’t know what it meant, but the mark always fused back together eventually, so Wind hoped everything would be fine. It was just one more thing to ask his soulmates about when he finally found them.

In his mind, Wind started thinking that having eleven soulmates instead of eight would be pretty cool, if a little overwhelming, but he kept that thought to himself.

(If he started having nightmares about his faceless soulmate getting ripped limb from limb until they were torn into four pieces and left in a bloody pile, then he kept that to himself, too)

~~~

When Wind discovered that Bow’s mark had gone gray, it was the worst hours of his life.

He’d checked his marks over carefully in the morning- noting that the second mark was once again split into four- and had been satisfied with them. They were all as they should be. They had been free of blemishes, with colors just as vibrant as they had been the night before.

Later that morning, Wind was working on tying up the sail on his little boat. The storm clouds on the horizon didn't look promising, and he needed to get the rigging all tied down before the storm hit. As he gave one last tug on the rope, he happened to catch a glimpse of his forearm, and the sight of gray near his elbow startled him completely out of his concentration.

Dropping the rope he’d been using to secure the sails, Wind grasped at his arm. His eyes hadn’t been deceiving him- his last mark was no longer bright and colorful. The bright red of the blood and the brown of the bow had been leached away, leaving the mark a sickly gray.

Breath caught in his throat and he staggered, a soft keen escaped him without permission.

He’d heard of this happening before- marks fading to death-gray before a person had even met their soulmate. It was always a sad tale when someone was killed before their time, and left behind grieving partners who didn’t even have a name or face to go with the gray mark.

And now Wind would be one of those people, forever left wondering about that last mark. It would stay with him for the rest of his life, a horrible reminder of the pain his soulmate no doubt suffered before their untimely death.

Wind didn’t know how long the mark had been gray by the time he noticed. How long had one of his soulmates been gone from this world, while he had remained blissfully unaware?

His heart sank into his stomach as he slowly sank to his knees. He felt more alone than he ever has, alone on his boat. His sister was gone, his Granny unconsolable to the point of being nearly unresponsive, he hadn't met any of his soulmates, and one of them was dead.

Wind sat alone in the bottom of his boat, the rain beating against his form. The waves were tall. Wind could faintly feel them tossing the boat around, but couldn’t muster up the energy to care.

Let the waves take him. What was the point? One of his soulmates was gone! Before Wind had even gotten the chance to meet them, they were gone.

In the dim light of the storm, everything looked gray, so it took a while to realize that the bow mark was changing again. The realization came to Wind slowly as he stared at his arm blankly but when it did, Wind whined, squeezing his eyes shut.

Why couldn't the gods just let him be? Why did his marks keep changing? Were his soulmates with monsters? Shifting abominable creatures that couldn't stay consistent even after they died? Were the gods refusing to let his soulmate rest even after they died?

Why why why?

It took even longer for Wind to gain the courage to open his eyes and look at the marks again. When he did, it registered that the mark wasn’t simply changing. It was regaining its color.

The relief that slammed into Wind was what finally broke the dam in his mind. The numbness that had crashed over him when he realized that one of his marks had faded finally broke, and Wind cried. He cried from the relief, the pain, the worry, panic, and grief he’d felt.

Wind wondered if any of his other soulmates had noticed that the Bow had gone gray. Had Rabbit cried? Did Feather drop whatever they were doing to find a private place to grieve? Had Blue screamed when they saw?

By the time Wind had uncurled and started taking in the outside world again, the storm had long since passed. The King of Red Lions was able to guide the boat through the treacherous waves safely, but without Wind’s help, they’d been blown miles off course. Wind didn’t even care.

His soulmate was safe- safe, safe, safe, they were safe, he had the mark to prove it- and alive. That was all Wind needed to know.

Most of the rest of the day was spent clutching at his forearm and staring at the last mark in alternating horror and relief. Slowly, the horror abated, leaving a sharp flash of indignant anger in its wake.

How dare one of Wind’s soulmates nearly die before meeting him? That was totally unfair of them. Wind was so going to punch them in the arm when they met as payback for scaring him so much.

~~~

For once, Wind hadn’t heard of the arrival of a new ship before it made landfall on Outset Island. He was notified by a kid running up to Granny’s house in the morning, yelling something and banging excitedly on the door.

Wind was the one to open the door, looking down at the kid in confusion. He’d seen him before, running around the island, but couldn’t for the life of him remember the kid’s name.

As far as Wind knew, they weren’t expecting any visitors. It was late afternoon, early enough to assume everyone would be awake, but still too early to be calling on your neighbors without giving warning. Scenarios of pirates (the unhonorable kind) attacking the island, or someone getting hurt or even dying flooded Wind’s mind. Anything that would make someone come calling this early.

At the unasked question in Wind’s eyes, the kid, who was nearly shaking in excitement nearly yelled that there was a strange group of people on the island, and that they were looking for him.

When the kid finally got around to saying the group consisted of eight people, a shock of anxiety shot through Wind. Was it possible? After all this time?

Wind was still only fourteen and all told, that was a young age to meet all your soulmates, but Wind felt so much older. He’d been through so much, sometimes he felt ancient. And he’d done it all without the aid of his soulmates.

It would be strange to finally meet them now, if these strangers truly were his soulmates.

The kid was still looking at him expectantly, eyes wide in excitement. Everyone on Outset knew about Wind’s soulmates. Even if they hadn’t gotten a good look at Wind’s soulmarks, they knew. Having a group of soulmarks that big was going to make you a constant source of gossip.

The gossip could have spread beyond Outset, and if there was a soulgroup of eight looking for their ninth soulmate, those rumors might have been enough to bring them here.

Wind did his best to keep a straight face, even as he was screaming inside. It probably didn’t work. Granny had always said he had a horrible poker face, and she was right. There was no way that he could hide the shock, hope, and excitement that crossed his face.

Wind quickly thanked the kid and slammed the door shut, but not before the kid ran off, no doubt to spread the gossip to everyone else on the island. Shoving the thought out of his mind, Wind ran to put on some acceptable clothes. There was no way he was meeting people who might be his soulmates while he was still in his pajamas.

He tore through the house to his and Arryl’s room, earring a shocked exclamation from Granny, who was sitting in the main room working on her knitting. Wind ignored her questions about who was at the door.

Arryl- who was still asleep after staying up too late last night- murmured sleepily as Wind slammed the door open, but was quickly soothed back to sleep by his assurances. It took Wind longer than it usually did for him to choose what to wear that day. He had to look nice if he was going to meet his soulmates.

By the time he ran back out of the room, his Granny no longer looked confused. No doubt more of their neighbors had stopped by to inform her of the news. The people on Outset might be gossipers, but Wind also silently thanked them. Outset wasn’t a very large island, and it shouldn’t have taken this long for the group to find him if they were really looking. Someone probably decided to take pity on him and send them in the wrong direction to give him a bit more time to prepare.

Of course, this was all assuming that they truly were his soulmates. There was a possibility that it was a complete coincidence that eight strangers no one on the island had ever seen before were looking for him specifically.

Yeah, even in his head, that sounded unlikely.

Even with helpful neighbors and getting dressed quickly as he could, when he stepped outside, a group of strangers was already coming up the path.

They stopped a good bit away from Granny’s house huddling together. Wind could feel their eyes on him, and his face was betraying his hope and excitement.

Though the group obviously saw him, they clustered a little ways away, talking about something. Wind winced, his expression falling ever so slightly. Did they not want him now that they’d seen him?

Each one of the strangers was obviously older than him- if these were his soulmates, he would be the youngest person in the group. Even the smallest of the group, someone in a colorful tunic who was shorter than Wind, looked to be older than he was. Were they disappointed their last soulmate was young?

On top of that, every member of the group was heavily armed, even if it wasn’t obvious. Most of them had a sword strapped to their back and several other weapons besides that. The magic that Wind could sense from them even at this distance told him they had more than enough hidden defenses as well.

Even the one in a blue tunic- who carried no sword- was armed with a bow and quiver. More excitement filled Wind as he realized that the bowman was heavily scarred. The kind of scars that come from injuries that might kill you. (And then there was guilt that he felt excited that someone had suffered.)

Breath stuttered in Wind’s chest, and he was nearly bouncing on the balls of his feet. Still, he didn't approach. He would let them do that. Because what if Wind was wrong, and these weren’t his soulmates after all? Arryl would never let him live it down if he ran up to a bunch of people just assuming they were his soulmates. That would just be embarrassing.

After a few more moments of Wind barely being able to contain himself, one of the strangers peeled away from the group. The others mingled together, talking but still obviously keeping an eye on Wind.

The man who approached was wearing armor- a pauldron and chainmail. Wind wondered about that for a split second. Even people who were going to be fighting often opted for padded cloth or leather armor, not heavy plate or chain that could cause you to sink like a rock if you were knocked into the water.

The thing that really caught Wind’s attention, though, was the blue scarf that was wrapped around the man’s neck.

A blue scarf, or in other words, a blue scrap of fabric.

Sword.

Wind’s hand drifted up instinctively to rub at his marks, feeling a bright grin break outacross his face. The sleeve of his undertunic was in the way, but that man seemed to catch the motion anyways.

In seconds, the man who was almost certainly one of Wind’s soulmates stood in front of him. His smile was confident as he held out a hand expectantly to Wind. Despite his confidence, Wind could feel his hesitance.

There was an unspoken understanding between them now. They both thought that they were each other's soulmate, and that the rest of the group behind the man was the rest of Wind’s soulgroup. But there was only one way to know, and although there wasn’t anything wrong with not covering your soulmarks, asking flat out to see them if you weren’t someone's soulmate was a very violating question.

Wind hesitantly held out his arm, using his other arm to push up his sleeve.

The man instantly relaxed at the sight, the tenseness in his shoulders melting away. Joy and relief spread across his features as Wind watched the man’s eyes (as Wind watched his soulmate’s eyes!) trail down the line of soulmarks until he reached Sword’s mark.

Until he reached his mark.

Wind watched a shiver go up the man’s spine. Wind had heard countless tales of what it was like to see the soulmark that represented you for the first time, and now he was witnessing it in real life.

The stranger-who-wasn't-a-stranger smiled at him, warm affection filling his eyes. Then he spoke for the first time, the words tender. “There you are, little seagull. We’ve been searching everywhere for you.”

#mint's fanfiction #marks on your soul au #linked universe #lu wind #lu warriors #soulmate au #lu fanfiction #angst

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mothfables · 8 months

Text

I. Getting Together

[Legend and Ravio have a quick moment of individual angst in this, but that’s because they’re both silly and dramatic when they really don’t need to be. It’s entirely their own fault but it’s resolved quickly, don’t worry]

“So... how did you two get together?”

The question comes from Wind one night when they’re all gathered together in Legend’s living room. They’re cozy and warm, stomachs pleasantly full and the fire crackling merrily in the hearth.

Legend goes slightly pink at the question and glances away. Ravio, curled up next to him on the couch, gives a snorting little laugh that has his partner smiling fondly. The interaction has Wind leaning forwards, his interest piqued. The others do too, intruiged at the opportunity to learn something new about their infamously closed-off Veteran.

The hero in question groans, tipping his head back to thunk against the back of the couch. “Do you have to tell them?”

Ravio snort-giggles again. He sends a bright grin at his partner, who seems to be making a concentrated effort to avoid looking at anyone in the room. Wind’s grin goes sharp - he senses an opportunity for teasing in the future.

“It isn’t that embarrassing, dear,” Ravio consoles. Legend grumbles, glaring at the ceiling. The action has Ravio shuffling to lay a hand on his shoulder. “Do you really not want me to tell them?”

There’s some more grumbling before Legend heaves a sigh. “No, no... It’s fine. I don’t mind.” He lifts his head up to smile fondly at the merchant.

“Only if you’re sure-”

“It’s fine, Ravi. Go ahead.”

“Alright then.” Ravio leans up to give him a quick kiss on the cheek before settling against him again. Legend goes back to not looking at anyone, to Wind’s amusement. “So we’d actually been living together for a while already...”

~~~~~~~~~

“Link? Could... could I talk to you about something?”

Link blinked, pausing in his work at Ravio’s hesitant voice. Turning away from where he was hunched over his desk he saw his roommate hovering anxiously in the bedroom doorway. For some reason, Sheerow was nowhere to be seen.

“...Ravi? What’s up?” Ravio went slightly pink at the nickname but moved closer. Link realized the other boy was picking at his sleeves; a nervous habit he could never seem to kick. He’d never admit out loud that he found it cute.

“S-so, um, I know we’ve er- I know we’ve been, uh- roommates for a while now,” the merchant started. “And I was- um. I was thinking about some things, and...” One hand drifted towards his hood, the way it did when he was especially nervous. Link felt a twinge of worry in his gut. What did Ravio have to be nervous about? Had he done something? Had Link done something? Did-did Ravi not want to be roommates anymore? Link had thought things had been going well; sure, he wasn’t the best at communicating how he felt, and he knew he tended to be grumpy at the best of times, and his habit of hoarding collecting things clashed with Ravio’s need to sell them, but they’d both been working on setting boundaries and communicating their needs and he’d thought that’d been going well-

Link hadn’t realized he’d started spiraling until he felt Ravio’s hands on his cheeks, snapping him out of it. Rupee-green eyes met his own, shining with concern. Shit- he’d made Ravio worried; he hated doing that. It left a cold pit in his chest for hours after.

“Link, hey, look at me,” Ravio soothed, his thumbs caressing pale cheeks. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to upset you. I just wanted to talk. It’s nothing bad, I promise.” Link realized the other boy’s hands were trembling. He could feel his own doing the same where he’d unconsciously pulled them to his chest. He nodded.

Ravio let go of his face (Link had to bite back a sad sound at the loss) to gently grab his hands and lead the both of them to the bed. Once they were situated, the purple-clad boy took a deep breath.

“O-okay. I guess I, um, could have worded that a little better.” He gave a small, huffing laugh before taking another breath. Link squeezed his hands in an attempt at comfort and was rewarded with an answering squeeze. “It’s just- I realized, recently, that I- That I like you. A lot. But- I don’t- It’s not-” He stopped, chewing his lip as he searched for the words. “It’s not... romantic, I think. At least not completely? I mean, I like being around you, and going to the market with you, and taking care of the orchard and the shop and the house with you... I like cuddling with you, and baking, and holding your hand-”

Ravio kept talking, rambling in the way Link had grown to find endearing, but he had stopped listening. His mind was reeling. The words kept replaying in his memory- ‘I like you. A lot. But it’s not romantic.’ His chest felt suddenly tight.

He stood abruptly, cutting Ravio off. “I-I-I... I need to- uh- gimme a minute,” he stammered, trying not to flinch at the hurt on Ravio’s face. He stumbled toward the door, fumbling for the knob and wrenching it open. Link staggered down the hall, barely aware of where he was going- just that he needed to be away- until he reached a room that felt suitably far. He hurriedly slipped inside before collapsing against the door.

Link buried his head in his hands. Distantly, he realized they were shaking again- no, all of him was. His heart stuttered and skipped as he frantically tried to process what he’d heard.

‘I like you. Not romantically.’

There was no way. Ravio really-? But he’d thought, after Marin- He shook his head harshly to rid himself of the thought. Did Ravi really feel the same way?

He’d known he felt differently about the merchant than he did about Marin her; not at first, no, but over time what initially began as a tentative friendship became something softer, deeper, more comfortable than Link had ever felt with anybody.

‘I like you. Not romantically.’

He hadn’t known anybody else could feel the same way. He hadn’t known Ravio- Link knew what romantic feelings felt like, but this was... different. In a way he couldn’t quite explain.

Link groaned into his hands.

~~~~~~~~~ Ravio was still sitting on the bed where Link had left him, trying to get over the hurt that had bloomed in his chest at the other boy’s abrupt departure. His heart twinged but he did his best to ignore it, taking a deep breath before leaning forwards and putting his head in his hands. His eyes stung with tears.

It’s fine. Okay, well- maybe not fine but I guess I should have expected this. You know Link doesn’t take surprises like this well; you should have done it differently... Maybe I shouldn’t have told him at all-

His deprecating train of thought was cut off by a sudden shout of “FUCK!!!” ringing though the house. Sheerow shrieked her displeasure downstairs as Ravio startled upright. The sound was followed by a thundering of footsteps before Link reappeared in the doorway to the bedroom. His face was a concerning mix of flushed and pale as he stumbled toward the bed, grasping Ravio’s hands with his own trembling ones.

“L-link? What-?”

“Ravi, I’m sorry, I-” Link cut himself off, his expression an odd mix of desperate and frustrated. “When you said- You like me, right? I think... Um. I know what romantic love feels like and this isn’t- I don’t feel that way about you.” Whatever expression Ravio was making had him panicking, scrambling to explain. “I don’t- It’s not that I don’t like you, Rav, I-I do! Um, a lot. Like you said. It’s just... I thought about it, and I realized I don’t feel this way about anyone else.”

Link bit his lip, looking like he was about to cry before heaving a sigh and leaning forward to drop his head onto Ravio’s shoulder. The merchant immediately disentangled their hands (his heart panging at the upset sound Link made) to wrap his arms around his shoulders, drawing him closer. Link all but collapsed against him, letting out a shaky sigh.

“‘m sorry,” he mumbled into his shoulder. “I’m trying to- no matter what I say I can’t explain it right.” Ravio hummed to reassure him he was listening. He ran his hands along the other boy’s back in a soothing manner, feeling him melt at the touch. “I didn’t... I didn’t think anyb’dy else felt this way. But then you said- A-and it made me realize maybe I’m not the only one who feels that way an’... It freaked me out. Th’t’s why I ran. I shouldn’t’ve. ‘m sorry I did; that wasn’t fair to you.”

Ravio felt like his heart was going to burst out of his chest. His Mr. Hero felt the same way? He’d hoped, sure, but he hadn’t actually expected the hero to share his feelings. Something the other boy said stuck out to him, though, drawing a frown to his face.

“Link?” There was an answering hum. “When you said you didn’t think anybody else felt the way you do... Can I ask what you meant by that?”

Link went still for a moment, making Ravio worry that he’d accidentally made the hero shut down. Then suddenly he was curling closer, fisting his hands in Ravio’s robes and bringing his legs up to his chest - like he was trying to hide. He took a shuddering breath.

“Ev’rybody talks about romance, an’ how it feels, an’ stuff you’re s’pposed to do with your partner, but I don’t feel any of that. O-or, um, not most of it. Not with you. I don’ want to do any of what they talk about, either. The stuff we do... I like doing those things, cuddlin’ a-an’ holding hands an’ going to the market t’gether. I just don’t-” His breath hitched. “I don’t want that to change.”

Ravio cooed, pressing his face to golden hair. “I don’t want it to change either,” he assured. “Coming in here, telling you, that wasn’t my intention. I just wanted you to know.” Link sniffled against his shoulder. “I like us just the way we are.” He pressed a soft kiss to the head beneath his cheek.

Link’s voice was quiet when he replied, “...I do too.”

The two of them sat quietly for a few minutes before shifting so that Ravio lay propped against the headboard with Link curled against his chest.

“Hey, Ravi?”

“Yes?”

“Should we start calling each other somethin’ now? Or, um, us?”

Ravio blinked, slightly surprised by the question, before taking a moment to think about it. “What, like ‘boyfriends?’” He felt Link grimace. “You’re right, that doesn’t feel quite right. What do you think?”

Link hummed as he mulled it over. “There’s too much... expectation, I think. Also I don’ like how it feels. What about... Hmm.”

Ravio held his roommate (only they weren’t just roommates anymore, were they? He felt giddy at the thought.) as he thought it over. He felt more than heard Link mumbling against his chest as he went through options, considering and discarding each of them in turn. Finally he gave a short ‘hm!’ and glanced up to see Ravio gazing down at him with soft eyes. His cheeks went pink.

“What d’you think about partner?”

Ravio’s chest warmed and he felt his face stretch into a beaming smile. “I think that sounds perfect.”

Link beamed back at him.

~~~~~~~~~ Back in the living room, Ravio blinks out of what Legend likes to call his ‘storytelling persona’ to find a roomful of heroes watching him with soft expressions. Sky in particular looks the most visibly affected by the story, with Time not far behind. Right, they both had partners of their own. Hyrule has his head propped on his arms, which are resting on a pillow he’d snagged earlier, as he sprawls on the floor. He’s smiling at Legend, delighted.

Wind suddenly lets out an ‘Aawww!’ that makes half of them jump. Legend flushes red, bringing his hands up to hide his face and narrowly avoiding smacking Ravio by accident. The merchant’s own cheeks are similarly dark, but he simply pats his partner on the chest with a smile.

“Yes, it was rather sweet in the end, wasn’t it, darling?”

Legend groans into his hands as everyone laughs.

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luimagines · 4 months

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It's is I, the wizard!

Monsters had been appearing more lately. [Reader] couldn't tell that within a heart beat, all of them could. Their blood was darker. and visibly wanted with magic. It took them all to take down a single moblin from Time's world, which was. . . unusual.

[Reader] sighed audibly. They weren't a hero, not like the others were, however, they were still a hero. More specifically, a hero of fairies. As a young child, [Reader] was always able to understand fairies. and they loved [Reader] as much ad [Reader] loved them. When the fairies magic and homes were threatened, [Reader] set out on a quest to find the four great fairies of their world, and used the power granted by them to slay a beast that was sucking the land dry of its magic.

They weren't a hero of courage, but they were treated as an equal in the group, all the same.

Yet, something was wrong. They could sense it. Usually, fairies would always cone yo visit [Reader], night and day, wether yo relax or to just say hello, they always visited. Yet. not one had come by in two days. It was worrisome.

"Are you alright?" the voice belonging yo the ranchhand asked, sitting next to them. "You look like you've got something on your mind. Rupee for your thoughts?"

[Reader] sighed. "It's just. . ." They ran a hand through their hair. "I can't help bit worry. Fairies always came to me often and in small groups. Yet. . . I haven't seen one in the past two days."

Twilight hummed. "Well, normally I would say we have bad luck. But we aren't accustomed to being popular to fairies, so we don't find them nearly as often as you." He looked at [Reader], seeing the worry in their eyes.

[Reader] felt a reassuring hand on their shoulder. "I'm sure that if something happened, they'd be hiding. Maybe we are scaring them off, with how many monsters we've been encountering as of late. I can't promise this, however-" he gave a squeeze on their shoulder, "I promise, if something has happened, we will do everything we can to help them."

[Reader] smiled at Twilight, his pretty eyes holding no deception. He was always an attractive man, strong with nice looks, and a wonderful personality to boot. He was a dream (Shame he seemed to have someone else in his heart. . .)

Hyrule suddenly rushed into the camp, looking Paniced. "We've got issues! Monsters are nearby, and they're attack a great fairy!"

[Reader]'s neck snapped from Hyrule and looked at Twilight in alarm, and within a heart beat, a small group was running to where the monsters were.

They were indeed attacking a great fairy, who was trying desperately to protect the small balls of light around her, yelling for them to go away. It looked like a great fairy from Wild's time, yet the lizalfos (from Sky's time) were still snatching the fairies, all sounding like thousands of bells ringing to the heros. but [Reader] could very well hear their tiny screams of panic.

Twilight ran in and attacked a lizalfos holding a bag full of captured fairies, slicing its arm off and making the bag fall. It shrieked in rage and spun, nearly hitting Twilight with the spiked ball on its tail.

Warriors ran to another one, which rose its large metal arm to mock him. only for it to get slashed in the face. He gasped seeing the dark blood seep through its wounds. "Infected!" He yelled, narrowly dodging a burst of flames from its mouth. A sword went through the back of the lizalfos and Sky stood, Master Sword in hand before rushing the the Great fairy's aid. who was currently defended by Hyrule.

"Leave us alone!" a tiny voice shrieked and [Reader turned to see a dark purple fairy hitting a lizalfos in the head over and over, trying to stop it from taking its friends. [Reader] drew their sword and charged, but the lizalfos blocked their sword with their arm, hissing and mocking them before spinning and jumping in the air, knocking them back. [Reader] landed on the ground but rolled out of the way of a punch before stabbing their abdomen. It didn't even flinch.

The Lizalfos opened its mouth. about to spew fire at [Reader] when Twilights sword appeared into their vision and sliced its head off. it fell down, lifeless. He offered his hand to [Reader] who gladly took it. "Thanks." they said, "Took me off guard."

"It's nothing." he said, before turning and checking the others. "Everyone okay?" he called.

Warriors pressed on a cut on his arm and a bleed on his stomach. hit by the tail of another lizafos before it was killed. Hyrule and sky were near the great fairy who was all frazzled and in a panic.

"Thank you." She said, as the heros and [Reader] got onto her platforms. "Those wretched beasts appeared from thin air and started to attack the little ones!" she explained, as the pink fairies swarmed the group and healed their wounds. At least ten were fluttering around [Reader], all singing their praise and thanking them, despite the others only hearing bells.

"Really?" Hyrule asked, concerned. The great fairy nodded.

"It started earlier today. when the more color varied ones here came to me asking for help finding their fairy whisperer. They were looking until those monsters found us and started to attack!"

"Fairy whisperer?" Sky asked, looking at [Reader]. "Isn't that what you are?" Reader nodded, when the dark purple fairy appeared and she spoke, the others able to hear her.

"Yes!" the fairy spoke. "Oh it was awful! Our whisperer and the rest of us were minding our business when this scary shadow with red eyes appeared and attacked us! It went after Lu and then more monsters came and we had to scatter!" the fairy turned to a shade of indigo. "Oh, I hope they're alright. . . "

"Wait a second!" [Reader] exclaimed "You're that fairy that always yelled 'It is I, the wizard!' when ever you entered a place or started to speak to someone!"

"This one if from your era?" Teilight asked as Warriors looked at the fairy. [Reader] nodded

"I've never seen a dark purple fairy before. . ." Warriors muttered

More colored fairies flew out, surrounding them and thanking them all before flying back to the Great fairy. The dark purple one turned a dark shade of red and slammed into his forehead. "Personal space!"

"Wizard-" [Reader] spoke in an urgent tone. "Are their more lizalfos around? You need to tell us."

Wizard Turned back to her main color again. "oh no! thats right! There's a camp a bit away on the mountain!"

Hyrule looked alarmed. "If the shadow is after the fairies, it must be for a reason! And the shadow might be there! We need to warn the others!" He turned to run, the others about to follow suit when Wizard flew in front.

"Please, I wanna help, at least allow me to help you!" she cryed before flying onto [Reader]'s sword, and it was surrounded in a light as Wizard's wings flapped. In a flash, [Reader]'s sword went from a simple blade to one with jewels on the hilt and a noticeable power within it. some fairy markings on the blade now. The group looked in awe as Wizard flew up. "There! now your sword it stronger! But it doesn't last more than 20 minutes, so hurry! Please!"

"Thank you!" [Reader] exclaimed.

"Lets go!" Sky yelled and the group ran into the woods to get the rest of the group, and defeat the rest of the lizalfos at their camp.

....

Hope you enjoyed this! I decided to write something based on a ask I left earlier, about fairy whisperers. Enjoy, and have a good day/night!

Wizard!! What a delightful surprise!! XD

I wasn't thinking that there was going to be anything more in the Fairy Whisperer idea. This was super sweet! Thank you for sending it in. :D

#pinky replies #anon stories #except not really

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sister-dear · 8 months

Note

For the soft fic prompt meme you shared: need me some Raviolink 👀 maybe item 12?

Thank you so much for the ask! You picked such a good one that I had multiple ideas and had to whittle it down to one! Sorry it took a few days, the work schedule did not cooperate with writing.

This did turn out more hurt/comfort than sweet, oops. XD Though one of the other ideas was just straight up fluff and I might write that one too aslkdfjsdf.

Fandom: A Link Between Worlds Pairing: Link/Ravio Other tags: hurt/comfort, sickfic, pre-relationship Wordcount: 1130

Home. It was right there.

Bruised and battered, Link stared up the final incline to his house. Even the large bunny-eared sign now adorning the roof didn’t change the sheer relief at having it finally in sight. Almost there. Just one last push to reach his front door.

Except his legs didn’t want to cooperate.

If only the sharp incline up to reach it, a hill he’d been merrily tromping up and down every single day of his life, didn’t seem so intimidatingly steep.

He’d used up every last potion and fairy in his push through the latest dungeon. It hadn’t been enough; somewhere along the line, whether from infection or some stress-induced illness, he’d started running the hot and cold flushes of a fever and his body just… couldn’t do it.

He’d been forced to retreat, avoiding monsters he’d usually engage with ease as he staggered home on legs that wanted to collapse out from under him. Stubbornness kept him moving, but he’d been forced to pause to deal with the magically generated “knight” that patrolled the road right in front of his house, and now he couldn’t quite get himself going again.

The world swam around him. The horizon seemed to rock back and forth on a dizzying axis. Cracked ribs ached terribly. The severe cut he’d taken to the thigh, before settled into a persistent background throb, screamed anew at the workout he’d just been forced to put it through. Sweat drenched the space between his shoulder blades; a slight breeze caught the damp and made him feel chilled to the bone.

The front door opened.

Ravio, poking his bunny-hooded head out to investigate now that the noise of combat had passed.

Shit. Link still had some items he hadn’t yet managed to buy outright. He wondered if he had enough rupees to rent them all again.

Should have focused more on buying things one at a time than gleefully renting Ravio’s entire stock at once.

“Mr Hero!”

Resigned to soon having a much lighter inventory, Link raised a weary hand in greeting only to have it caught, his arm swung across Ravio’s shoulders. Another slipped around Link’s waist. The support made him feel as though he was a puppet with all the strings cut. Feeling ten times heavier, he sagged.

Somehow, they got Link up the hill and inside. He wouldn’t have managed it without Ravio’s help. He was definitely going to have to pay for those rented items all over again. But at least he was safe.

He passed out the moment his head hit the pillow.

It didn’t even occur to him what that meant, that he felt safe enough around Ravio to trust him while unconscious. A far cry from their first meeting when he’d possibly, just a little, freaked out at a stranger’s presence in his house.

It took over a week for him to recover enough to be ready to set out again.

He rifled through his travel pack for his wallet, ready to count out rupees and figure out which items he needed most, only to blink dumbly at encountering one of said items instead of a half-empty bag. He pulled it out, staring at the little purple ears decorating the top.

Suspicious of a trap, he turned narrowed eyes in Ravio’s direction only to find that the merchant had turned his back and was now very visibly keeping himself very busy scrubbing already clean dishes.

“Ravio…?”

A shift of the hood, Ravio glancing back over his shoulder and then just as quickly turning away again.

“You made it home, Mr Hero! I didn’t need to send my dear Sheerow into danger to collect my property, so no charge!”

Still not quite willing to believe him, Link peered into his bag again.

Yep. All there.

Wait.

He’d used up all his potions. And yet red liquid-filled bottles glittered up at him. They were mixed in with the weapons instead of tucked away into the extra-enchanted pouch that further ensured they wouldn’t break.

Unfinished business itched at the back of his mind. He needed to get back to that dungeon, finish it and rescue whatever unfortunate soul waited, trapped inside a painting, on the opposite end.

Ravio still wasn’t looking at him.

Link wordlessly moved the replenished potions to their proper location. Sealed the pack. Put it on. Started to leave.

Paused, door open and foot on the front step.

Don’t say it. Just take the gift and go.

“...Why?” Link asked.

“Well, Mr Hero. You could say I’ve grown rather fond of you. Not very smart of me, to be sure. Bad for business, so don’t go telling anyone.”

Blinking, Link stared out his front door. The open road awaited, the skies blue and that annoying knight-construct once again patrolling the road right in front of his house.

Link closed the door. He watched Ravio’s shoulders sag.

The bunny hood jerked up at the sound of Link’s boots crossing the floor. Link scooped him up, wrapping him up in the biggest bear hug he could manage and lifting him straight off the floor.

Ravio squeaked. Link set him back down, but he didn’t let go.

“I’m fond of you too,” he said to the air over Ravio’s shoulder, feeling tentative hands coming up to clutch at him in return.

He felt Ravio shifting. Not to pull away, but making little half vocalized noises as if he was trying to speak but couldn’t come up with the words. Finally, even that stopped, Ravio slumping into the hug with a little sigh.

Link’s mind raced. Fond could mean any number of things. He thought he’d be happy with any of them, but some until-now unacknowledged part of him reared up, mentally demanding to know if it was the kind of fond that meant Ravio might be amenable to a kiss, and it wanted to try. Right now.

But duty pressed at Link’s mind. And what if he tried but the answer was no and then he had to leave…? No. No. Better to wait. Give them both some time. He could ask that question after finishing this temple.

With great reluctance, he dropped his arms.

“You’ll still be here when I get back?”

Ravio shook himself, reaching up under his hood to scrub at his unseen face. Was he wiping away tears? Having similar thoughts about things like kisses and trying to recenter himself? Link had never found the presence of that hood so inconvenient as he did now.

“Of course, Mr Hero!”

“...Good.”

Link turned towards the door with fresh determination. He might have unfinished business out there, but now he had unfinished business here, too, and he fully intended to get through this dungeon as quickly as possible so he could address it.

#asks #ravioli #albw #ravio #link #myfic

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