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asumofwords · 1 year

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Smoke, Fire and Ash

Warnings: This fic includes noncon, dubcon, manipulation, violence and inc3st. Tags will be added as the fic goes on.

This is a dark!fic. 18+ only. Read at your own discretion. Please read the warnings before continuing.

Summary: You are the eldest daughter of Rhaenyra and Daemon Targaryen. You are forced to navigate the difficult surroundings of your upbringing and the eventual disintegration between your family and the Hightower's relationship. What will happen when your older and estranged uncle suddenly takes a more sinister interest in you? (Dark!Aemond x Reader)

Characters: Aemond Targaryen X Reader, HOTD characters.

Note: Celebrations for Aegon and Helaena.... What could possibly happen?

Chapter 16: A Celebration

You rose with the sun, its golden rays stirring you from your sleep. Aella and Saria came to dress you and style your hair for the big day ahead.

Your dress was made of two parts. The top was a black leather bustier that came up your neck, molded perfectly to your frame with a plunging gap cut out at your chest, exposing the soft centre of your chest.

The shoulders were flared out sharply to the sides with a dragon of gold and red embroidered on each shoulder, their tails coming to curl around your breasts. The skirt was long and black with more embroidery. Two high slits were at the front, revealing red silk when you walked.

This dress had been specially made for such an occasion from the tailor in Dorne. Red for your Targaryen lines, Black for your mother.

Around your waist was a gift from your father. A long black belt came together at the front with a large red jewel, from which extended a chain of gold and more red jewels below, cascading down your front.

An entirely decadent outfit, perhaps far too revealing for the prudes at Court and the frigid Queen Consort, though their stiff backs and sneers meant nothing to you now. You would watch them all burn if you could.

You gazed at your reflection as Saria began to brush and style your hair, gently pulling it backwards, talking to you softly to you as she did.

Your hair was half braided intricately behind your head, whilst the remainder fell down your back in loose waves. Small red jewels were nestled in your braids that caught the light from the sun. You slowly put in your earrings and your rings, before standing and readying yourself to eat with your family.

The walk to your parents chambers was short, your soft skirts swished against your legs. You smiled as Lords and Ladies of the court bowed to you, though their eyes lingered on your unfamiliar attire.

You were the first to arrive to Rhaenyra and Daemons chambers. As you entered you were announced to the room, and your mother stood, lovingly looking at you.

“You truly are a gift from the Gods,” She praised, “Look at you.” Holding you out by her hands, looking you over.

“It is all you.” You reply.

She wore a deep black gown covered in embroidery, her pregnant belly proudly being hugged by the garment. Red lined her sleeves and shoulders subtly. She looked like a Queen.

“My sweet girl,” She cooed, kissing your face, “Are you hungry?” She asked, walking you over to the table.

“I’m starved. Where are the boys?” You looked around the room, seeing no heads of brown or silver hair.

“Prince Daemon has gone to wrangle them from their beds.” She laughed sitting heavily, holding her belly. You could not wait to meet your sister.

The table was already full of food and your stomach growled looking at it. Your mother picked up a glass of juice, bringing it to her lips and drank heavily.

Her hair was completely up in braids atop her head, and the necklace your father gave her many years ago sat proudly on her neck.

“You look so beautiful.” She smiled.

“So do you.”

“I am swollen with your sister, I feel like I am ready to burst.” She stroked her stomach softly.

“Nonsense, you are glowing muña,” (mother) You reached forward for your own glass of juice, “Anyone who is blessed with being able to lay their eyes on the Realms Delight is favoured by all the Gods.” You boast, lifting the juice to your lips, sipping on the sweet nectar.

Princess Rhaenyra lets out a guffaw, “Iksā tolī olvie,” (You are too much.) She responds, a cheeky smile on her face, “Emā aōha kepa ñuhoso hen udra” (You have your fathers way of words).

"You love us for it." You cheek behind your cup, grinning endlessly at your mother.

Behind you, the door opens and your brothers and father join you at the table. Prince Daemons hair is pushed back from his face, a lopsided smile rising rapidly on it. Rhaena and Baela followed in behind them, forever looking beautiful.

“What does she get from you?” He asked, sitting beside your mother before leaning over to kiss her. He was dressed in all black leather, tightly fitted with small red hems and stitching.

Jacaerys and Lucerys silently began to fill their plates with food, eating before greeting you, their eyes looking tired.

Both of the boys were dressed in red and black, their dark hair combed neatly atop their heads, though Lucerys' was more wild than Jaces. Rhaena and Baela sat as usual beside their betrothed.

“Not me. You.” Your mother responds, as she nibbles on some fruit from her plate.

“Ah, must be my handsome face then.” Your father joked, smirking.

“Ao jurnegon sīr gevie, tala.” (You look so beautiful, daughter.) He cooed.

You smiled, then look at your brothers who eat silently beside you, “Why are you both so quiet?”

“They were up all night, causing chaos together. I would be surprised if they have even slept.” The Rogue Prince responded, looking entirely unamused.

“We did sleep,” Lucerys responded defiantly, before a yawn cut him off “Jace said he would show me the passage ways!”

“Hmm,” Your father hummed, “It was like two great rats were scuttling about in the walls. I had thought Alicent had finally lost her mind. Even an occasional squeal could be heard.” Jacaerys giggled and your mother sighed.

“Well you best behave yourselves today,” She said, “All of you.”

Rhaenyra eyed you as she spoke, whilst your fathers gaze flicked to you as he picked up his goblet to drink.

“We need to all be on our best behaviour today,” Rhaenyra looked at Daemon, whose eyebrows raised in amusement.

“I mean it. Viserys will be joining us today, and so will Lords and Ladies of Court. We need to look our best, and be our best.” She looked over at you all, your two cousins looking down at their plate in avoidance.

“We can’t give them any more power than they already have. Do not give the Court something to whisper about.” She ended on a sterner note, your father looking directly at you.

“We won't, I promise you.” Jacaerys spoke up, speaking for all three of you, knowing that their betrothed would only jump in if required. You looked at him softly before turning to look at your parents again.

“Y/n.” Daemon called, giving you a knowing look.

“I swear to you,” You look at him, “All of you, nothing will happen.”

“Good. Let us enjoy the celebration and watch Aegon drown himself in ale.” Your father joked, Rhaenyra rolled her eyes.

You all ate together slowly, discussing how you thought the day would go. Would there be performers? Exotic animals? Your mother didnt think so with Alicent in charge, but perhaps there may be some good music Lucerys added.

You hoped to see some exotic animals, perhaps one might rip off your uncles faces, or maybe Ser Otto's. Now that would be entertainment.

Once you all finished and the sun was high in the sky, its warmth beaming down across the red keep as a gentle breeze whispered through the open windows and balcony doors you walked down to the garden together where the day's celebration would be held.

As you walked, the sound of music drifted gently through the air, becoming louder once you got to the gardens path. Lucerys was right. Laughter and conversation could be heard from the Lords and Lady’s who were attending, and servants walked briskly nearby to deliver food and drinks to their tables.

The courtyard was lined with tables of all sizes, filled with men and women dressed in fine silks and linens. None however, as fine as the Dornish gown you wore.

A large table sat closest to the sea wall, surrounded by flowers of all kinds. Your Grandsire the King sat in the middle of the table, wearing fine golden silk with hints of red and orange embroidery. To his side his Lady Wife, dressed in her usual stiff necked green gown. Did she hide pins in the neck of her gowns to keep her head up so high?

There were stories of armies far, far away that had blades and needles sewn into their mens armour and clothing in order to keep them alert and straight postured. Though you had your doubts. How were they to fight smoothly if they had needles and blades cutting into them? Surely poor oversight from the armies general.

Aegon and Helaena sat beside the King and Queen. Aegon was wearing a deep green velvet jacket which seemed to be holding nicely although his eyes were already glassy from ale.

Your aunt Helaena sat beside him, where she looked off into the distance not conversing with anyone at the table. She wore a golden gown that shimmered in the sun, its embroidery of gold silk ran down her body in blooming flowers amongst the hems.

Aemond sat at the end of the table, off to the side of Helaena, wearing a white dress shirt that was tucked into his usual black leather pants, hair neatly pulled back, and dark leather coat snug on his lean shoulders. He eyed you all as you walked to them, his lone eye scanning your body slowly.

Your approach was announced to the guests and the table of honour. Silence filled the courtyard. Those attending hoping to witness a scene to whisper about later.

You gave them none. All of you looked as sharp and as regal as ever, your mother carrying herself as though she wore the crown already. Your father, a menacing glean in his eye and your brothers and cousins happily side by side.

“Father,” Princess Rhaenyra greeted the King, coming round to kiss him gently on the side of his uncovered cheek, golden mask secured tightly to the other side of his face.

“Queen Alicent.” She continued, gently bowing her head, before sitting next to her father on the opposite side.

You were seated opposite Helaena, with Aemond on your side. Only when you sat down did your aunt look at you, a slow smile creeping up her face.

“Princess Helaena, you look beautiful. Gold is a wonderful colour on you.” You complimented. Her almost childlike smile down at her dress made your heart flutter.

“I love your gown.” Her smile contagious.

A short snort came from the pursed lips of Aegon, who’s goblet hasn’t seemed to move from his face. Holding back a snarky reply, you smiled gently at your eldest uncle.

“Congratulations on your union uncle, anyone would be blessed to have the beautiful Princess Helaena as their Lady Wife.”

Looking you up and down he smirked.

“Thank you niece, you are far too kind.” His eyes landed on your exposed chest, smirk deepening as he sipped thickly on his ale, “Has anyone told you how delightful you look today?”

Alicent cringes beside him, looking at him with concerned eyes.

“Thank you uncle, they have, though no-one can compare to Lady Helaena on this day.” You responded gracefully, drawing your attention back to your aunt who seemed all too interested in the sleeve of her dress.

Conversation in the courtyard quickly rose after you had all settled into your seats, and food began to be brought out in larger quantities. Bright cakes and pies of all kinds were placed in front of you, the smell wafting through the air. Fruits from all the realms were piled and sliced in intricate shapes and designs. Spices filled your nose.

You plucked a star shaped fruit from in front of you and began to suck the sweet flesh off of the pit inside. Juice ran down your hand and your tongue darted out to catch it before it made a sticky mess.

Someone cleared their throat over the sounds of conversation and music, your head coming up to find your father staring at you. Thinking you had food on your face, your hand came to brush your lips, tongue coming out to lick the corners of your mouth, before you saw his eyes slowly slide across the table next to you.

Looking up at your aunt you smiled, before turning your head more, seeing Aemond’s eye locked on you, face unreadable. A blush creeped along your skin and you placed the half eaten fruit back on your plate before turning your attention to the conversation between your brothers.

“Even if you could do it, which you can't,” Jacaerys laughed, “She wouldn't let you.” Your younger brother Luc’s face scrunched up, a small pout on his lips and he dropped a date back onto his plate untouched.

“Why not?” Luc whined, looking pointedly at you.

“Why what?” You replied leaning in.

“He wants to ride Sȳndor.” Jace scoffed, your eyebrows rose.

“You can't ride Sȳndor without a seat, Luc.” You spoke gently, not wanting to upset him.

“Thats what I said.” Jace cuts in.

“You could take me with you!"

“Luc, I’m sure that Sȳndor would allow you to fly with us, though I don't think we could without a seat.”

You watched as the boy deflated at the comment, “But, I could see about having his seat put back on him so that we may go together.”

His head was looking at his plate now, moving the date around with his fork, “When we are back on Dragonstone we can go.”

The small mop of brown hair bounced up and away from his face as he looked to you grinning, though his body still sheepishly closed off.

Lucerys was a sensitive boy, and sometimes emotionally reactive, but he was still one of the kindest people you knew. It was his best quality. The whole realm needed more people like him.

Baela leant in close to your brother nudging his shoulder, “Our mother rode the largest dragon in the world, and she still rode on saddleback. She was one of the best Dragon Riders known.” She spoke proudly, ever the image of her mother, with fire like your father. Rhaena smiled sadly, your brother's hand coming to hold hers tightly in on the table, before leaning in to whisper in her ear.

Rhaena and Baela were perfect for your brothers. They instantly connected and had a strong bond since childhood. That bond strengthening since the night Aemonds eye was taken and Vhagar was claimed by a new rider.

You knew that both girls would be treated well, and they would treat your brothers the same, though it was odd seeing your younger brothers be readied for marriage before you, but you knew you should be grateful.

You sipped gently on your wine as you listened to the conversations around you. Your mother was smiling brightly at your Grandsire as your father spoke of Rhaenyra’s current pregnancy and all that entailed.

Alicent was leant forward on the table, turned to look at your mother as she listened in, smiling brightly like you have not ever seen before.

A voice suddenly pulled your attention away from your parents, “You look lovely, Princess Y/n.” Came the smooth drawl of your uncle.

Straightening your back you turned to face him, his one eye staring back into yours. Your parents' warning rung in your head, and you fought the urge to not gouge out his other eye. You breathed in slowly, feeling heat rising up your chest, holding your hands gently in your lap. Breathe in. Breathe out.

“Thank you, Prince Aemond. You are far too kind.” You spoke, hoping to turn your attention back to your parents, but he pulled you back in.

“I don’t believe I’ve seen such a dress before, at least not in this court.” His body swayed gently as he gazed at the shoulders of the gown.

“It was made specially for an occasion such as this,” You breathed out through your nose, “A tailor in Dorne creates the most wonderful pieces.”

“Hmm. Dorne does have many exotic things….” Aemond spoke, a small giggle coming from his brother Aegon who listened on, “Some of the fruits tonight are from there. My mother, the Queen, requested them especially for such a celebration.” His head pointedly looked to the forgotten fruit on your plate.

You nodded in response, hoping the conversation would end, begging the Gods to give you an out.

“Have you ever been to Dorne, Y/n?” Came the slurred voice of your uncle Aegon.

“I have uncle, a few times. It is beautiful there.” You responded, seeing Alicent’s eyes looking at the interaction from the side of her face.

“Theres not just fruit from Dorne here in Kings Landing,” He began, “In fact, you’ll find plenty of Dornish whor-“

“Have you been to Dorne Helaena?” You cut him off, hoping to hear anything but his drunken confessions.

“I have not.” She responded quietly, seemingly uncomfortable with her husband's comment.

“Then I shall take you, We can ride there on dragon back, or go by sea, and eat the finest fruits, fresh off of the trees.” You spoke, a small smile on her face, “I have heard that there are citrus trees there beyond our comprehension. The women of Dorne are fierce warriors, trained at a young age. I'm sure we could even get you new dresses like mine, that no other Lady here at court will have, nor ever seen before!” You continued excitedly, “There was once-“

Aegon snickered loudly, hand coming up to wrap around your aunt's shoulders, fingers digging in sharply, “Our niece does know how to talk, doesn’t she?” He breathed into Helaena's face, as she looked past your head and away from the table.

“And you know how to drink brother.” Came the sharp voice of Aemond, his one eye drawn to the hand clasped roughly against Helaena's shoulder.

Aegon's grip left your aunt, and reached out in show to grab at his goblet, before lifting it to his lips, challenging his brother as he emptied the cup, before thrusting it behind him for a server to come fill it up once more.

“And you know how to ruin the fun.” Aegon sulked, before drinking again, leaning back in his chair to watch the table converse.

Your end of the table became uncomfortably quiet after that, and so you took a large sip of your wine, feeling it warm you quickly. You felt your skin itch at the tension at the table and so you went to start a conversation with your aunt again, only to find her watching a small green beetle which had landed on the table in front of her.

Thanks so much for reading along with me, if you wish to be added to the tag list please let me know :) Likes and reblogs are greatly appreciated ! Enjoy <3

Tag List:

@izzicle @ej-shitchats @may-machin @alegria1580 @witchy-jadda @videovampire @inkdelicious @queteimporta39 @virtualsweetsqueen @fo-cus @auratiqs @feyres-fireheart @queenofshinigamis @asoiafwh8re

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civilight-eterna · 7 months

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dorothy's skin has saria, muelsyse, silence, ifrit and ptilopsis!!

quercus has little figures of goldenglow and haze to either side!!

whisperain's has lumen, amaia, and irene (maybe others??) in the stained glass!!!!!!

fiammetta's has apple pie to the bottom left side AND A FUCKING CLOUD SHAPED LIKE OUTCAST!?!?!??!?!

#arknights #I'M SO FUCKED UP!!!

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firefliesnightcore · 3 months

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"You know," Saria began again, the music stopping once again and leaving the space feeling disturbingly empty, "people say the sun sets differently out there."

Time grunts, "Out where?" as he rubbed his arms for warmth. The night had no right being this cold.

"Out there. Outside the forest and the woods. Out where the other people live." Time heard her moving. He craned his head back and found her standing atop the rock now, staring out into the Lost Woods. "They say the sky is painted pink and gold, and that the sun is still warm even when it's on the horizon." She paused, then added, "I wonder what the horizon looks like."

There was a side of Saria that few saw. Moments like this, when her mind wandered beyond their gilded prison to places they'd only heard about in stories.

CHAPTER 9 - The Sun Sets Differently Out There

And to catch this story from the beginning...

Heart Made of Glass and Mind of Stone

Majora's Mask: the unwelcome and persistent staple in Time's life. In a mix of fate and single-minded determination, he sets out on a quest to put an end to the evil lurking in the shadows of their land once and for all, with nothing but a wish and a prayer that he and his reckless heart don't lose their mind in the process.

And that's where the band of eccentric travellers comes in.

CHAPTER 1

#linked universe #ao3 fanfic #ao3feed #lu time #legend of zelda #ao3 #linkeduniverse #loz #ao3 writer #alternate universe #action adventure #fantasy au #majoras mask

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raisengen · 1 year

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Every now and then I wonder — why is Rhine Lab called Rhine Lab?

The Rhine is a European river, flowing predominantly through Germany. Rhine Lab is a Columbian company, with no obvious ties to Leithanien — indeed, Parvis remarks on their contrast. The lab was founded by Kirsten and Saria, and as far as I’m aware neither of them have ties to the country either.

NoriZC has posted some art that supposes Rhine as a geographical location based on maps, but I would consider that very weak evidence.

Could it be named after Das Rheingold? An opera by Wagner, the titular treasure grants one the power of rule if one forsakes love, and is additionally cursed to provoke envy and jealousy.

Hm, there are piecemeal parallels, but I don’t think they make a coherent picture. Kirsten gives up love for power, I can see that. Saria is the dragon that guards Rhine, I suppose. But there’s too much left out for my tastes. Rhine Lab is no Rheingold, it is not the catalyst and cause of envy and betrayal. It is merely the stage where the character’s natural dramas play out.

What else bears the Rhine name? Could the name refer to... rhinestones?

Rhinestones, a category of crystals or glasses used as a cheap substitute for diamonds, originally sourced from the Rhine. (For a bonus, they are sometimes associated with American country music.)

Rhine Lab was founded by Kirsten and Saria, but Kirsten was always the driving visionary of the two. Kirsten, who wants to reach up to the stars. The stars, which Kal’tsit tells us are false. The falsehood that Dorothy’s Vision suggests Kirsten is wise to.

Could it be that Kirsten has always suspected? Who knows, maybe her parents’ death was no mere accident, and is linked to this secret. Maybe Kirsten declared, right from the start, that she knows all that twinkles is not a diamond, and all that shines is not a star.

#Arknights #This is of course speculation #but I think it's a plausible fit #better than the alternative 'the writers thought it sounded good' anyway

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st0rmyskies · 5 months

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Toyota Ravio4

Nissan Sunny

Mitsubishi Minica Danganon ZZ

GAZ Volga

Daihatsu Mirahim

Pontiac Tetrans Am

Mercury Marin

Ford Saria Sapphire RS Cosworth

Pontiac Fiero Deity

Mazda Midnata

Toyota Ravio 4

9/10, love that he has so much room in the back for all of his hoarder shit. He pays someone to sign off on his inspections and routinely forgets about oil changes. Those tires are bald af, and you know those headlights are yellowed as fuck, though. Legend considers it a death trap.

Nissan Sunny

Are you KIDDING ME???? I DIDN'T KNOW THAT WAS A THING. 2/10 because that's not going to give the princess/incarnation of Hylia enough bullet proof glass. You know Sky would want to put a turbo in that thing.

Mitsubishi Minica Danganon ZZ

1/10 for color, but no Dragmire is fitting any of their anything in this tiny little motherfucker. RIP those shocks.

GAZ Volga

7/10 because I REALLY like the styling on this one, and it looks like something one could ride around in creepily at night stalking people. But Volga would unfortunately trash this thing in less than four months. Our only benefit is that there's probably no airbags in a thing like this, because fuck Volga.

Daihatsu Mirahim

2/10, this thing is HYSTERICAL, but Ghira would (a) not be caught dead in something so clown car-esque, and (2) wouldn't be able to drive it in his 9" platform heels, either.

Pontiac Tetrans Am

4000/10, this thing is OBNOXIOUS and LOUD and it LOOKS SICK and Tetra would rock the FUCK out of this thing and Lullaby will murder her if she ever finds out that her younger sister is joyriding in this badass coupe. A young Stormy desperately wanted one of these in her 20's.

Mercury Marin

11/10. This looks like the kind of car a well-meaning dad might buy secondhand for his daughter's first vehicle, especially when said daughter is in a band, and now I'm tearing up thinking about them.

Ford Saria Sapphire RS Cosworth

8/10. Yeah, this looks like a therapist's car. I imagine Saria would want to drive something newer and ostensibly more reliable, but the compactness of the car is fitting.

Pontiac Fiero Deity

15/10, points for being a rear mid-engine and even more points for making me laugh about the whole catching-fire thing. From Wikipedia, "Safety issues escalated rapidly by the summer of 1987, when the fire count for 1984 models reached a rate of 20 fires per month. Fieros were catching fire at the rate of one for every 508 cars sold, surpassing all other mass-market automobile cars." Yeah, something that runs so hot it self-destructs? That's VERY Deity.

Mazda Midnata

0/10, listen, my husband used to have one of these bitches and it was the WORST. TOURING CAR. It was SO FUCKING UNCOMFORTABLE. We could NEVER fit any of our shit in the trunk. Midna would not only not fit in this thing with her headdress and being 9' tall and whatnot, but I don't picture her being a light packer for a long weekend, either.

#omg i love these asks thank you for sending me another one anon

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triforce-of-mischief · 1 year

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Deserving of Nothing

Febuwhump Day 19: "You deserve this"

Whump count: what it says on the package

Word count: 550

Summary: Hyrule decides that he's done more harm than good as the hero.

AO3

Reblogs > Likes!

Saria Town was doing better than Hyrule had ever seen it. Children played in the streets while their unconcerned parents browsed the market. Hyrule even found a milk bar, which Time and Four eagerly accompanied him to.

Hyrule went to the bar while the others chose a table in the corner. Before he could start to order, the barkeep’s face lit up in recognition- and not the welcoming kind.

“Look who decided to show his face!” the barkeep exclaimed, and Hyrule winced.

“I thought we would be on better terms by now,” the hero said. “Looks like the land is finally healing.”

“No thanks to you. It’s only because you stopped snooping around that life is finally peaceful. No monster raids, no traitor attacks… no so-called hero acting as a magnet for trouble.”

“If it hadn’t been for me, Ganon would have razed this place to the ground.” Hyrule’s voice shook with hurt and anger.

The barkeep sighed. “If it wasn’t for the sacred blood you sprinkled all over Hyrule, Ganon would’ve remained a children’s story. Look, kid. Have you considered that perhaps you are not the solution, but part of the problem?”

Hyrule growled, his fingers itching to draw his sword. “If you’re trying to say something…”

“Not at all,” the barkeep said, reaching for a glass. “Just that it might be best if you don’t overstay your welcome. Now, what can I get you?”

Later that night, far past the hour which traded logic for guilt and sorrow, Hyrule contemplated the barkeep’s words. Had it all been his fault? Had all of his hard work been for nothing? Was the hero’s spirit’s desire to help more trouble than it was worth? Maybe it would be best if Hyrule disappeared altogether. He could run away and live in the hostile wilderness and never cause trouble again. He had done his duty as the hero for better or worse, and it was time to change his actions.

He would miss the other heroes, of course. A lot. But they were all so much more capable than he was, and it was time for him to stop slowing them down. It was going to hurt, but the Eyes of Ganon were still out there. Hyrule refused to let even one more failure happen.

“You deserve this,” Hyrule whispered to himself, the words stinging his own tongue. “None of those innocent people deserved that pain, so you do.”

As he quietly grabbed his bag from his bedside, he wished he could believe it.

None of his roommates stirred as he snuck out of their room. He closed the door, turned around, and nearly jumped out of his skin when he practically ran into Time.

“It won’t help,” Time said.

Hyrule laughed nervously. “What won’t help?”

“You’re running away,” Time stated. “Trust me, I know. You think it’ll solve everything if you remove yourself from the equation. You’ve probably told yourself that you deserve to be isolated from those you love. Am I right?”

“Yeah,” Hyrule mumbled, unable to meet the elder’s eye. “But I’ve made my choice. Don’t try to stop me.”

Time sighed. “Fine. Join me for one last cup of tea, at least?”

Hyrule nodded and followed him to the inn’s common room, entirely unsuspecting of the story that Time was about to tell.

#linked universe #linkeduniverse #lu #linked universe hyrule #lu hyrule #linked universe time #lu time #febuwhump 2023 #febuwhump2023 #febuwhumpday19 #fable writes

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star-ocean-peahen · 2 years

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Give us the oot tea sis 👀

-Sky Floor

Hokay, I have my computer glasses, I took my sweater off, the fan is on, and my fingers don't hurt (too much :P), so let's go! (TL;DR at the bottom)

I started puzzling this out when I was trying to figure out what kind of story I was experiencing while playing. It's something I've been able to do for every Zelda game I've played: for Skyward Sword, Link is determined and loving, but has to temper and better himself over the course of the story in order to save the girl her loves. In Breath of the Wild, Link is picking up the broken pieces of a world he does not remember, discovering it and rediscovering it at the same time.

Link's story in Ocarina of Time is about loss and growing up. But it's a lot more complicated than simply, "he was a child but then he had his childhood ripped from him so he had to grow up too fast". How is it evidenced in the narrative? What kind of themes enhance this idea? How do the other characters and their positions and arcs support this main theme?

And then I got it. Every character in Ocarina of Time is defined by two things: The role they have to play, and their awareness of how this role affects them and other people. My experience in the game was loneliness and the constant feeling of the walls closing in. Link's story is that everyone in his life on whom he needs to depend is barred from understanding him, listening to him, and giving him the support he needs.

Of course, this is evidenced best by the various characters and the changes they undergo during the timeskip of seven years.

Saria, very plainly, represents Link's childhood innocence. She is his only friend that understands what his childhood was like and, and what it meant to him to be ostracized and bullied for not having a fairy, and what it would mean for him to leave her behind. She waits for him in a way that no one else does after seven years. She wants to see him again and make sure he's okay. Again, she thinks of him in a way that no other character seems to do. But this sweet friendship is stolen when she awakens as a Sage and says this:

"I always believed that you would come. Because I know you... No... You don't have to explain it to me... Because it is destiny that you and I can't live in the same world."

Destiny separates them. The divine role they have to play cuts Link off from his oldest and best friend.

Darunia, the Goron chief, welcomes Link with open arms after he defeats King Dodongo. He makes him his Sworn Brother and enthusiastically sees him on his way as a friend. Seven years later, Darunia recognizes him as an adult, but there is no time for them to catch up. Darunia's people are captured and dying, and the duty he has to his people brings him to ask Link to aid him in saving them. Once their victory is won, Darunia is now a Sage, and says this:

"You turned out to be a real man, just as I thought you would! By the way, I, the wild Darunia, turned out to be the great Sage of Fire... Isn't that funny, Brother? Well, this must be what they call destiny. Nothing has made me happier than helping you seal the evil here! Hey, Brother, take this! This is a Medallion that contains the power of the fire spirits--and my friendship."

Though Darunia expresses his pride in Link, he cannot support him any further. Destiny comes between them.

Ruto, the Princess of the Zora, makes Link a heated promise in her childlike adoration of him. Seven years later, she fully believes in his return for her (despite Link prooooobably not knowing what Marriage was at the time😬). She views her love for him as the valuable gift it is, but again, is debarred from letting her affections blossom by the necessity of their partnership in the fight against evil. And she recognizes the duty they both hold in this battle, saying:

"As a reward...I grant my eternal love to you. Well, that's what I want to say, but I don't think I can offer that now. I have to guard the Water Temple as the Sage of Water..."

Again, destiny comes between Link and a person who would love him. (Quick note: did Ruto actually consider Link's feelings? No. Does it look like she was capable of doing so, after seven years? I would say yes.)

Impa doesn't have as much to do with this, but I can't exactly skip her, can I? Devoted to her charge, Impa is dedicated to protecting the princess. After she awakens as a Sage, she commends Link for his courage and maturity, and asks him to protect Zelda in her stead.

"Now I see that you have become a fine hero... There's nothing to worry about... The Princess is safe now. Soon, you'll meet Princess Zelda face-to-face, and she will explain everything... That is when we, the six Wise Ones, will seal up the Evil King and return peace to Hyrule. I have to stay here... You go to Princess Zelda's side and protect her on my behalf."

Link takes on the responsibilities of an adult, which destiny placed on his shoulders.

The Gerudo leader, Sage of Spirit Nabooru breaks the mold. From her first introduction, she has no relation to destiny or a divine role, and in fact demonstrates her willingness to reject those who wish to make her do their will. To her, Link is not a beloved friend, or an awesome hero, or an adored ideal, or a light in the darkness. He is just a child who can aid her. It is incredibly significant to me that the only dialogue options in the entire game where Link can respond in more than "yes" and "no" are in his conversation with Nabooru.

(Footage from Arglefumph: The Nancy Drew Dude on Youtube)

What's this? The first opinion Link has ever expressed in this entire game??? Link from Breath of the Wild had a condition where the pressure and expectations on him made him unable to speak or emote, and I can't help feeling like the same might be true for the Hero of Time.

Anyway Nabooru also breaks the pattern by not encountering Link in the early stages of the game. When you get to the Spirit Temple portion of the game, Link travels back in time to meet her and then immediately goes back to the future (hehe) to continue her quest. When Nabooru meets him again in the future, he has freed her from the Twinrova's control and made it possible for her to awaken as a Sage, upon which she says this:

".......But isn't it funny? That a person like me could turn out to be the Sage of Spirit! And now, I'm going to fight them as one of the six Sages! Heh heh... I'm going to pay them back for what they did to me!"

Although Nabooru fits into her divine role more naturally than the other Sages, her destiny still divides her from the physical reality.

These are the Sages, the people aware of the turbulent destinies laid upon them and the divine duties they must shoulder. But the reactions of the other residents of Hyrule show a concerning trend: all of them see Link as only a portion of himself. To most townspeople, he's just a random kid all up in their business. To Mido, he's his rival for Saria's attention, and later, the kid that he failed. To Malon, he's the boy whose memory she holds dear, the man who had the courage to drive the evil out of her home. Some see a savior, some see a customer, some see a young man to run their errands, but they all see the image of the person they want to see. A mask, if you will.

And all of this comes to a head in Zelda/Sheik. Before the seven year timeskip, Princess Zelda is effectively Link's boss. She directs him to do what she cannot, in a desperate plan to take matters into her own hands when the adults refuse to listen. Sheik watches over him, inexplicably appearing and disappearing, always out of his reach.

The progressing relationship between Link and Sheik is something I'd like to detail. The first two temples, Link plays along. He follows Sheik's instructions and listens to his guidance. Every time he turns his back, Sheik vanishes. What really stuck with me in the encounters with Sheik was how they're the only person Link really knows is following with him. The only person who knows—understands—what he's going through, who chooses to reach out consistently and hand him the tools he needs. Link is so, indescribably, lonely.

In Lake Hylia after the Water Temple, when Sheik readies to vanish again, Link runs toward them. Link so rarely emotes in this game, which makes every stumble, every motion significant. In the encounter immediately after this, Link and Sheik partner in battle. They stand as equals for one cutscene—and that's all Link wants, really. To be on an even playing field with another person, not planner and executor, not childhood friend and adult, not a pawn in whatever game the one he's facing wants to play.

Then he meets Sheik in the Temple of Time, where they reveal themselves to be Zelda, and I'd like to imagine that Link allowed himself to hope. The imminence of destiny, of their divine roles, overshadows their conversation, but perhaps Link thought, for a moment, that his partner in destiny would see him as more than what she needed him to be.

But Zelda dashed these hopes to pieces after their victory over Ganon (Keep in mind that the final boss section is the only part I haven't played yet, although I have seen the cutscene at the end). She recognizes the hardship and loss Link has gone through, and blames her own choice to drag him into the uncaring saga of fate and destiny. Too blinded by guilt to recognize what he truly needs, she strips him of the relational connection he so desperately needed—and takes even more from him: the skill he had worked for, the future he earned, and every memoried record of his pain and struggle. In Zelda's misguided attempt to shoulder Link's responsibility, she sent him to the past with the mission to shoulder hers.

"All the tragedy that has befallen Hyrule was my doing... I was so young...I could not comprehend the consequences of trying to control the Sacred Realm. I dragged you into it, too. Now it is time for me to make up for my mistakes..."

And finally, we all know about Navi. (Honestly, I forgot about her for most of the game. All she does is prompt me towards the next dungeon and remind me that I cannot, in fact, open doors that are locked.) Well, I mean, about her mysterious departure. After Link is sent to the past, to the moment before he pulled the Master Sword, Navi up and drifts out the window like her wings turned into dandelion fluff.

This is the last blow, salt in the wound, if you will. The last entity who at least knew about Link's journey, however unhelpful and silent she may be, abandons him with no explanation. Aside, she is Link's last link (haha) to the home of his childhood. Without a fairy, he cannot navigate the Lost Woods and return to the Kokiri Forest. This metaphor assures us that Link's childhood innocence is irretrievable, that although he may have traveled to the past, Link himself remains the person he became over his adventure. However, Navi's departure also serves to signify the finality of Link's isolation, and tells us that truly he is now, more than ever, alone.

TL;DR In Ocarina of Time, Link's narrative is that of loneliness and loss, with companionship and support just out of his reach the whole game until it is locked away forever.

Some extra video essay insights on Ocarina of Time: Every Zelda Is The Darkest Zelda by Jacob Geller Ocarina of Time: A Masterclass in Subtext by Good Blood

To confirm: This essay is based on my personal experiences and therefore personal interpretation of the game.

Also: FUCKING THANK YOU NABOORU WHY DID IT TAKE SO LONG FOR SOMEONE TO MENTION THIS /j

#WHOO DONE #oot #ocarina of time #ocarina of time meta #loz #legend of zelda #did i just write a 19+ paragraph essay about a video game? yes yes i did #and im very proud of it too

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guttertongue · 2 years

Photo

golden

#art #ocs #oc: saria #worldbuild: city of glass #fae #guttersart

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arkiwii · 8 months

Text

Will start with this one then, that I wrote to pass time in the plane

It would be funny if we put an animal between the hands of two unfunctional divorced lesbians don't you think

There's a lot of mistakes and typos probably, I didn't had time to proofread and I'm not native English speaker, so my bad

________________

Somehow, Silence and Saria end up having to take care of an injured Musbeast… Of course, things can only not go well when these two have to do any sort of collaboration, especially when it involves a being's life.

Characters

Silence, Saria, Ifrit

Warnings

Description of injury, description of surgery, injured animal

________________

"May I know what you were doing here?"

A dry voice, normally known to be soft and calm, reached the ears of the silver haired person. This one is found forced to stop her tracks to look up towards the origin of the familiar voice, slightly moving the paper sheet she was observing from her sight.

It was a normal day, nothing really special; just a calm evening in Rhodes Island. In those summer days, it was common for operators to take it easy, simply doing the work they were supposed to do, without doing much, and rarely had to face emergencies. Adding to this, some operators decided to take vacations, taking profit of the sunshine, hanging out with their friends or family, which resulted in turning the normally noisy and busy ship into a calmer and emptier one.

Well, of course, with the exception of these two. The Liberi and the Vouivre simply had no concept of "vacation" or "break", it seems. Why spend days, or weeks, chilling at the beach, when you can work twelve hours per day? The Infecteds' lives don't take a break. Medicine and science discoveries neither.

And even less the condition of their protected one.

"I was printing a copy of Ifrit's health report." The taller woman replied in a monotone voice, with not a single emotion. The facts, straight and direct to the point, nothing else was needed.

A complete opposite to the medic in front of her, who frowned behind her round glasses, grasping at the documents she was holding. "How does it even concern you? You're not part of the medical team." Now that she thinks about it, how long has it been that Saria was looking at the reports of Ifrit's condition? Maybe since the very start - her heart skipped a beat at the thought, suddenly scared about what it could mean, or what intentions the defender had to do such a thing. Under the mess of thoughts, she slightly raised her voice, suddenly seeming aggressive, or at least, on the defensive. "Are you trying to keep an eye on your experi-"

"I'm just making sure she's fine." The tall woman frowned, yet her voice remained neutral. Finally a bit of emotion, even if it seems to be disbelief that her co-worker was still believing that she only had intentions to hurt this child. "Now, I will leave, to not bother you more. Good day."

With a tail wave, she simply just walked away, passing in front of the brown haired Liberi, who was ready to let her leave with not a single additional word, or a goodbye. But she barely took any steps further that rushed footsteps made her stop, followed by a screaming voice.

"Sillleenceee! Quick, I need your help!"

The sudden voice of the younger one immediately changed the hard expression on Silence's face, who quickly turned toward its source in surprise - followed by the Vouivre, who could not help it.

"Ifrit? Is everything alri- Wait, what is that?"

The owl squinted as the Sarkaz approached, noticing a mass of brown fur and feathers in her arms that she was unable to identify at this distance. Saria took some steps forward, closing her distance with the researcher until she was just next to her. "It looks like…"

"I-" The child finally stopped her course to take a few breaths, now just in front of the two adults. "I was playing outside and- And I found this beast… It seems very injured!"

"Wait, Ifrit, breathe." The concerned Liberi put a hand on the blonde child's shoulder. Her gaze turned then to the creature in her arms, quickly analyzing it. "It's still breathing, but it's rather slow… I will have to analyze it in a proper place, come with me."

She made a sign to Ifrit to follow, who did so, under the silent stare of the defender. But contrary to what Silence secretly wished, the horned child will not miss an occasion to include Saria in this affair. "Saria! You will help too, right? You're so good at helping people, I'm sure you would do amazing!" Her little tail swinged as she spoke, an excited smile on her face.

An excitement that was not shared by the two of them, the first was looking at the kid with surprised eyes, while the second ruffled her feathers up. "Saria is bus-" She went to grab Ifrit's arm to drag her away, but she dodged it and returned in front of the Vouivre.

"Busy with what?! It's summer! C'moonn, I'm sure she would help a lot… Just like with me before!" The bright orange eyes of the child seemed to wet up as she begged. Memories of the old times where she and Saria used to collaborate in Rhine Lab remade the surface, against her will. The former director did not know what to say in the entire situation, a part of her wished to accept, but never she would break the boundaries of Silence, boundaries that included staying feets away from the scientist.

"That's up to Silence if she wants help." That's all she replied, redirecting her gaze to the Liberi, this reply betraying that she was indeed up to offer a hand. That's now a situation that the owl has to face. Many replies, many thoughts appeared in her head, as she opened her lips slightly as to say one, but none came out. Her mind screamed to refuse, her heart screamed to accept, and she was just here, fighting mentally to make a decision. Just one, any, but one-

"...Fine. She can come." She deeply sighed, to herself or to the situation, she didn't know. "I might need more pairs of hands anyway." An addition that was not that necessary, if not to convince herself that she did not accept because she wanted Saria to be around. "Now let's not lose more time."

"It really is a nasty wound…" Silence squinted as she was analyzing the Musbeast on a large operation table that was carefully draped with a tissue. The creature was showing a big wound on one of its forepaws, similar to a bite, probably made by a hound. It was covered in dried blood, mixed with fur and feathers, despite the medic's attempt to shave around the it for a proper look.

"Will it survive?" Ifrit was still here, looking as well as the wound. Even if it was not a suitable sight for a child, she was not any child, and it was probably something she was very used to seeing, if not worse, in the operations she had taken. Her tone was concerned - even if she could play the overconfident side time by time, she can't hide her sensitivity to other being's health. In the meantime, Saria was preparing some tools in silence.

"The chances are high, yes… Don't worry, we will try our best to save it." She kindly smiled to the child, gently ruffling her hair with one hand, which was replied to with an awkward laugh from her. "You should leave us to take care of it now… You can go back playing outside, I will tell you if anything happens, alright?"

"Alright alright." The kid walked away, giving a last glance to the beast, but then her gaze switched to the two adults. "I will go but, I better not catch you two arguing or something, OK?" Ah well, it was not words she expected to hear from someone as young as Ifrit, so Silence couldn't help but chuckle at it, but nervously.

"Not when a being's life is between our hands, no." She only replied this, her voice suddenly lowering mid-sentence, realizing how much of a lie it was - after all, they both argued a lot about Ifrit's life. The young Sarkaz then squinted at them, doing the hand sign for "I am watching", before leaving the medical room, carefully closing the door behind her.

An awkward silence installed itself between them very soon after. Both simply just stranded here, their bodies turned to the door. Finally, the Vouivre was the first to break the quiet ambiance.

"...Just like the old times."

She couldn't help but raise the corner of her mouth in nostalgia, while the Liberi did not dared a look towards her, instead focusing her attention on the patient. "Except it's a beast. I hope that you at least have some knowledge in animal health." After putting on a medical mask, the brune owl grabbed a tool holding on a cotton that she dipped in disinfectant.

"I don't. I may be useless after all." She followed her co-worker by putting on a mask as well, but soon got surprised by the sudden reaction of the creature under the cotton being pressed on the wound. "Ah, wait, do you need me to hold it for you?"

"That'd be nice." The owl dryly replied, allowing the Vouivre to move to the other side of the table to place her hands on the creature, who was panicking and breathing. "Be careful to not hurt it. And don't let it go." She whispered a warning before going back to her task to clean up the wound.

"I'm not as…" Saria instinctively replied, but upon realizing this reply was surely useless, she finally just nodded. "Alright." She was holding the beast against the table, tight enough to not allow it to leave despite its struggling attempts, but also not too tight to hurt it.

Seeing this beast trying to break free under her hands only reminded her of another problematic little beast.

"Ptilopsis is not with you?" she finally asked, and realized that she had not seen Silence's assistant at all today, despite the fact that the two are normally always sticking around each other. The concerned one barely looked up at the question, still focusing on the beast who was now letting out small cries. "No. She went out with Mayer this morning. They're going to get new materials for Lutra Workshop. I thought that letting her go outside with someone else would do her goo-" She suddenly stopped herself to sigh, the noisy creature under her hands refusing to calm down, masking the words of the Liberi. "You're a noisy one, you know that?"

She gently rubbed a finger behind one of the ears of the beast, hoping that this kind action would help it to calm down, under the warm look of her co-worker. "Seems like the pain woke it up." She simply commented with a smile, not moving her hands one bit from the creature.

"At least it's a good sign." The brown haired one shrugged, finally setting down the tool she was previously using to clean up the wound. "But it's going to be a struggle for when I'd have to sew that wound."

As she spoke, she looked around for her next tool, while the Vouivre gave her an interrogated look with round eyes. "Shouldn't we put it asleep first?"

Her question stopped the owl, who then moved a hand on her chin, knitting her eyebrows. "Maybe? I don't know how it works… Ketamine?"

"That might be too strong for a Musbeast."

"You're right." The medic slided a look to the animal, who seemed to have relaxed now that the wound wasn't touched anymore. "Maybe propofol then? I'm really unsure what is the best…" she moved a hand to her forehead, grabbing some of her hair as she looked in the void, trying her best to think of a solution. Unfortunately, she really did not know anything about animal medicine, having studied human biology more.

"We can still make an attempt." Saria's voice, still calm, finally stopped Silence in her train of thoughts. "If anything, we would still have tried." She closed her eyes for a bit, finally moving one hand to gently give pets to the beast, brushing the long feathered antennas on its head.

"I don't want to make Ifrit sad if we fail." The Liberi turned her head away, showing a concerned expression despite herself. While the white haired defender was burning with the urge to put a hand on her shoulder, to gently stroke her feathers, to give her comfort like she used to do, she did nothing. She only responded, but in her normally strict voice could be heard some kindness.

"We won't. I promise you that I won't let it happen."

Silence only took a short breath. Can she really trust the person she wanted away from her? She ended up closing her eyes, but then adjusted her glasses with a gloved finger, before turning back to Saria and nodding to her.

No, she can't trust her. But she does not have much of a choice.

It's been such, such a long time since the two conversed this way. None of them can recall how long, but it's been too long, it's all they knew. It was hard for Silence to accept that when it did not come to Ifrit or Rhine Lab, talking with Saria was really pleasing. They both seemed to be on the same level, on some understanding, with a common goal; to protect those in need.

It's when Silence thinks about it that she could not help but feel a slight pain in her chest. On one hand, she craved to forgive Saria, to come back to her side, to feel the comfort she used to give her, this feeling of security and trust. But on the other hand, she was scared to do so; scared that she might be making a mistake, that she might lose the ones she wished to protect and save, that she would fall in the hands of Rhine Lab again.

It was not hate that she had for Saria anymore, not with those years spent with her in Rhodes Island. It was fear. For herself, for Ifrit.

The operation went well. The deep wound on the beast's arm was nothing to be afraid of anymore, sewed back and covered with a bandage to prevent any contact with it. The Liberi was now washing the tools she used, while the Vouivre was reorganizing them, peeping at the sleeping animal time by time. It should not be long before it awakens, now.

"What is the plan now?" The white haired one asked after another look, without looking at the other person in the room.

"Well, obviously it can't be left in nature this way." Silence replied, cutting off the water a moment to speak. "We'd have to keep it around until it's fully healed."

"In Rhodes Island?"

"Maybe. Unless you know somewhere else to keep it - I don't. In a dorm, with someone to watch it carefully, it would suffice." She finally dried up the tools she was washing, walking back near Saria to put them back in their places. "I'm not sure if Ifrit is a good candidate for this, however. As much as I trust her, you know how she can act impulsively…"

"And about you and Ptilopsis?" The dragon took a step backwards to not get too close to her co-worker, and decided to instead focus back her attention on the animal.

"I don't know if Ptilopsis would be alright with it. But even so, it might be difficult for us, as we tend to be often distracted, or focused on work…" Other candidates would surely fit better, but as she thought of Mayer or maybe Magallan, she could not help but decide to play a bit with Saria. "How about you? Let's see how great Lady the former Director is with animals." She caught herself smiling, suppressing this expression the moment she realized she was doing it.

"Not that great." Saria waved her tail, betraying how nervous she felt about it, despite her expression staying neutral. She stared at the Musbeast, who was now slowly waking up. "But I don't mind trying if it's better."

The room went quiet as the two were now staring at the little one. It seemed to be really confused, proceeding where it was and what happened. Instinctively, it went on its paws, and attempted to walk, but soon fell on the table, causing a pressed movement from Silence.

"Ah, be careful-" But the moment she took a step forward, her hands raised as if to grab the animal, it immediately freaked out, and tried to get up instantly to run away. It was not that fast, limping slowly, but still fast enough to escape Silence. Thankfully for her, Saria, who had way better reflexes in this kind of situation, jumped forward to gently catch the animal before it could fall. "Ah… Thank you Saria." the Liberi sighed with relief, glad that the beast was alright, despite its slow movements to escape Saria's grip. It seemed that it was still tired and confused from the anesthesia, but no less ferocious.

"You're welcome… I will have to be careful and keep a constant eye on it, then." her eyes moved to the Musbeast, trying to make sure to not hurt it with her firm hands.

The owl nodded to confirm it, before turning away slightly. "I will continue to clean everything up, and as well contact Mayer and Joye to bring some pet food while they're out, we'll definitely need it. As well as a cone… And pet special medecine…" she started to mumble, a hand to her chin, her eyes straying away. For a moment, the Vouivre was just standing here, the animal in her hands - who calmed down after realizing how meaningless its efforts were - her orange stare on her co-worker. At the moment, she simply just lost herself looking at her, not realizing it. In fact, it's Silence who remarked it first, frowning in confusion at Saria.

"Saria? You can go now. I'll take care of the rest."

"Ah- Right. My apologizes." She nodded politely, feeling her tail swinging in awkwardness, before leaving the room.

A soft knock on her door made her perk her head up.

"I'm coming."

Soft morning sun rays drowned the dorm in warm colors. It was the next day, and Saria had spent the rest of the day in her room, watching her new protected one. Even if it has been a single day, the place was now covered in an overwhelming scent of pet food that she felt like she would have a hard time to get rid of.

As she said, the draconic one stood up to walk to the mechanical door, allowing this one to open, revealing the short brown haired Liberi behind.

"Good morning, Silence."

"Good… morning, Saria." Silence's voice sounded strangely hesitant, as if she was not planning on greeting the person in front of her, but was still caught off guard by the greeting, politeness forcing her to reply despite herself. "I brought the medicine for the beast. Is everything alright so far?"

She tried to slide a look behind Saria, with great difficulty considering how she was built compared to Silence, but upon seeing her struggle, the Vouivre took a step aside to allow the smaller one to see - and maybe enter. "Nothing concerning. It seems to be doing fine, but is still trying to get used to it. Ah, you can enter if you don't mind."

If Silence doesn't mind? Of course she does mind. The idea of entering in the dorm of the person she trusts the least is not making her feel the greatest. She only looked inside, quietly, but decided to shut the thoughts in her head. She's here as a medic, a professional, to help a living being - she doesn't have time to put her personal life in it. Forcing herself to keep a neutral look, she entered the place, and quickly spotted the beast on the bed. At least, it seems like it got used to Saria's presence enough. She placed the medicine she brought on the desk in the room, noticing how clean and organized this one was. Of course, she already knows Saria well to know that her dorm would be very neutral and clean, as if it was unoccupied and untouched since she started to work at Rhodes Island. The only noticeable elements would be her shield, her clothes, documents, and… A slightly burnt feather. Silence frowned at this sight, but did her best to ignore it and focus on the matter, as the dorm's owner closed the door to make sure the beast wouldn't try to flee.

"So let's see this…" Silence muttered as she approached the animal, who was already staring at her with big eyes, the antennas and ears on its head perked up in alert, despite the big plastic cone around. The moment the Liberi was a little bit too close, it stood up, and walked backwards, until its butt hit the wall behind. "Still scared I see…" She whispered, but couldn't help a very slightly amused smile at the animal when it tried to turn around, but the cone hit the wall. Saria approached as well, but simply sat on the bed, before raising a hand carefully at the beast to allow it to sniffle it.

"It's alright, Quill, don't be afraid…"

"Quill?" The Liberi blinked at the name. She really was not expecting Saria, ex-director of the Defense section, known for her cold behavior and for being more sturdy than diamond itself, to be attached to a small fluffy animal that she met a day ago. And apparently, Saria herself was not expecting it, as she stiffened up, waving her tail around nervously. "I was thinking that a name would be more friendly… And, its feathers remind me of yours."

Ah. As soon as she said those words, a very awkward silence took place. The Vouivre, who was looking away, slided a look at the owl, whose expression was… really hard to describe. Surprise? Anger? Fluster? Guilt? Tender? Disgust? A mix of all of those at once? Whatever she was dealing with, something could be guessed; she did not want to deal with it. "I… Hum. Could you try to hold it please? I need to examine its wound."

After that, no more words were exchanged between them. Saria obeyed, picking up the small animal after gently reassuring it, and held it in a way that its arm would be easier to see. The Liberi quickly looked at it - maybe too quick, Saria can guess it's the fact that she had to be closer to her that was making her act this way -, before noting in a low voice that it seemed all alright and starting to heal up. She then went to take the medicine, asking for Saria to force the animal's mouth open for her to put it in its throat. Everything went well, and after being released from Saria's hands, the beast gently jumped out of bed - well, "jumped" in the best way it could -, before hiding under it.

Now, it was just the two of them. Silence did not dare to look at Saria again, instead turning around. "I'm leaving the medicine here. One pill every morning until it's all healed up. I guess you can do the check ups yourself." She walked away to the door, leaving Saria to reply with an agreeing growl, but she finally built the courage to call for the Medic before she leaves.

"Olivia."

"Don't-"

"I'm sorry."

The look of anger on Silence's face upon hearing her first name suddenly vanished at the apology. She finally let out a sigh, looking towards the door, but did not take another step. "Listen I… I just don't know what to think about it. I was hoping you would have forgotten…" she looked behind at the desk, towards the feather, where the defender's eyes followed. "I just need a moment." The feather tufts on her head lowered, but she finally left before Saria could reply anything else.

Since this day, Silence never visited again. Sometimes, it would be Mayer or Ptilopsis, even Magallan once, and of course Ifrit - always supervised by one of the first two. They seemed always glad to see the little beast, who started to feel more at ease at the sight of new faces. They would even bring some treats time by time, Mayer would bring a Meeboo to play around, or take note of its anatomy to perfect her robots. Ifrit was always eager to play or pet the animal, even though she was often asked to leave it alone, as it could not do much in its stade, and Ptilopsis took the role of checking in to keep track of its health.

But never Silence. Saria grew worried about it, sometimes asking news to Ifrit or Ptilopsis, but it seemed that she was doing fine. So she was really just giving her the cold shoulder - she was used to it after all. It was probably better for Silence, staying around Saria against her will probably have stressed her up.

It has been a week now. The cone around Quill's head - name officialized as Ifrit loved it - was removed, and it seemed that its situation was better. Saria would of course not spend all her time in her dorm, she would often wander to the training room, or check around Rhodes Island to see if any operator was in need of assistance or anything. The ship really was calmer and more silent in summer, it was almost boring. At least, she could somewhat entertain herself with Quill. And speaking of it, she was spending this evening sitting on her bed, the small animal laying down on her lap as she gave it a few strokes on its head, gently sliding her fingers on the length of its feathers, her mind somewhere else.

The feathers were extremely soft. She always loved the feel of the texture of those on her fingers, the palm of her hand, against her body. While slightly ticklish, they still brought something to her; a feeling of warmth, of sweetness.

Eyes closed, she could almost feel her presence again. Her head resting against her, and her hand gently brushing her hair and feathers. Bright memories of a past she could never live again. Why wouldn't she fight for it? She could - but she thinks she does not deserve it.

The accusations were false, but the guilt was here. She could, no, she should have known. She should have stopped them before. Before it happened, before these innocents were harmed. It was too late now to go back, but she will still try. She will keep on protecting them, and try to stop those who did it. Even if she was now alone, it was certainly better. So the ones she cares about won't be hurt if she fails. And she won't hurt herself.

She opened her eyes again when the fluffy creature yawned, moving her hand to not disturb it. But as she did, she caught something shining under the light of her room, on its forepaw. Muttering reassuring words to the beast, she picked up its leg to examine it. Now that she thinks about it, it has been a while since Ptilopsis did a check up, maybe she decided it was not necessary anymore. As Saria looked at the wound, she squinted, before catching up what got her attention between the black wires that were used to stitch back the injury; black crystals.

“Saria..?”

It’s a small voice that welcomed her as she opened the door. It was pretty late in the evening, but never too late for the literal night owl that is Silence. She was of course in her laboratory, where she spent most of her time, and that’s where Saria found her. The expression on her face was strange, she seemed surprised, but also not glad to see her; and the Vouivre could not help but notice how her hair seemed greasy and messy, as if she had not taken care of herself for the whole time.

“It’s about Qu… The Musbeast.” she hesitated, thinking that hearing that name again might not do her the best. Silence seemed to relax a bit, maybe was she afraid that it was about her or, maybe, the both of them. “Ah. Did something happen?”

“It got infected.”

She blinked once, then twice, before readjusting her glasses. “I did not know it could happen… I should have watched it more carefully.” Her eyes seemed to wander away, as she lost herself in her thoughts, the way she always did. “How is it feeling right now? Joyce reported to me it was getting better, and nothing was alarming.”

“That’s the case. There’s no sign of an advanced stage of Oripathy, just a few crystals have appeared on its wound.” Saria’s voice remained calm as always.

“...Alright. I will go take a look. Is it still in your room?” As she spoke, she took off the lab coat she still had on her, revealing her clear brown turtleneck under it.

“Wait,” Saria called out the moment the Liberi was leaving the laboratory, getting her to stop in her tracks to look at her. “Have you taken care of yourself recently?” She dared to ask this question, earning a frown as a reaction.

“It’s not about me.”

While Saria’s tone barely changed, someone who is used to hearing her like Silence could guess a certain concern behind it. “The beast can wait, it’s not in an emergency state, you should try to at least take a sh-”

“I can take care of myself- and, w-what are you trying to achieve with all of this anyway?” Contrary to the person in front of her, Silence could not keep her voice calm, and raised her tone slightly, showing a certain anger - or maybe fear, or maybe both, even. It was as if she was afraid of a certain conclusion, that she had been rejecting for long, so long.

Saria could play the innocence card, and ask what she meant by “all of this”, but she did nothing, only opening her lips slightly as if the words refused to leave. She already knew what she meant, so instead she simply looked down, her tail swinging slightly behind her, but soon rolling up around her legs. “I can’t forget.”

The next second, she could only hear a deep inhale from the owl, who closed her eyes as if to calm herself down. But instead of replying, she only turned herself to walk in the hallway. “We’ll talk about it later. But first, let’s take care of this.”

They simply walked for a bit, in complete silence, Saria staying a certain distance from her co-worker as if it was preferable for her to forget that Saria was here at all. Once they arrived, and after a scan from Saria’s ID card to open the door, they were greeted with the animal in the center of the piece, who immediately rushed under the bed upon seeing them. Silence took note of how it walked, it seemed that it was getting way better, only slightly limping. After allowing Saria to catch the Musbeast, she joined to take a look at the wound. Saria could hear her click her tongue before she stood up.

"It's not looking very bad, it's only at early stages… But I don't know how to deal with that." She sighed before sitting on the bed, but keeping a distance from Saria. She was tired, visibly, but still tried to hide it. "Is the treatment the same as humans? How long can it survive? I don't know anything about its biology either." Her eyes focused on an indeterminate point, as she tapped her fingers on her second arm, now turned into a wing. Saria stared at her for a moment, letting go of the Musbeast who decided that it was getting hungry.

The situation was awfully similar to what happened back in Rhine Lab. A patient both had to take care of, yet they could not understand, but a will to save it regardless. That Ifrit was a human child and Quill a simple animal does not change that both deserve a life. But this time, no one was to blame; it was only nature.

She balanced her tail, her hands now resting on her laps. "I guess there is not much we can do… But that does not mean we can't try."

"I guess." Silence's voice sounded deeper, surely due to her tiredness. It would be hard to deny that she has been neglecting herself. "I would have to take a sample of its blood when I will remove the threads… I just don't know how to announce it to Ifrit now."

"There's nothing we could have done to prevent it anyway." Saria nodded, before looking at the beast who was curiously staring at them, sniffing the air as if to get hints if Silence was an enemy or an ally. "The least we can do now would be to give it a good life."

Silence's feathers tufts dropped slightly at these words. "But… I could probably try to find a way to cure it. If I work hard enough…"

"Olivia, you already work enough." The taller woman's voice was strict at those words, but still somewhat full of concern. The Liberi could have been mad at the sound of her name, but at the moment, her mind was too focused on the matter, and too tired to pay attention, that hearing it again sounded more of a habit than something she would reject. "You do a lot for Ifrit. And not just her. For Ptilopsis. For this small Liberi woman you met as well. For Rhodes Island as a whole." She would have liked to offer way more than just her words - to be able to hold her again, to reassure her like she used to do. But not right now. "You need to take care of yourself too."

Silence sighed deeply, closing her eyes to not reopen them, feeling way more comfortable this way. "I feel like I'm hearing Joyce… Since when did you care about us?"

"I always did." The amber eyes of the draconic one looked away, at the Musbeast, who was now approaching them to jump on the bed, before taking place between the two of them - but closer to Saria, to whom it was the most used to. Both looked at it silently, eventually Silence dared to approach a hand to gently pet it, noting that it was as soft as her own feathers.

"I still don't know if I can really trust you." She finally started, her eyes not moving from the creature who was still showered in tender pets. "I'm afraid to. I'm afraid that if I go back, things will get worse, that I might lose her. But this time we spent together… Taking care of this beast… It just reminded me of the days in Rhine Lab, and how much I missed them." She finally let go, and now brought back her two hands together, before staring away once again. "Even if we were running towards a bad end, things were easier, and we were happy together… But now, I'm afraid of being blinded again. Of being used."

Saria could only listen in silence. Her heart tightened at the words, it has been so long since she heard Silence speak her heart open this way. She only nodded to show that she saw listening, even yet the Liberi woman could not see it.

"So long story short, I don't know what to do. But I need time. I'm still afraid for Ifrit. And I still don't trust you." She took a sharp breath, before sliding a look at Saria, finally. "But either way, we both are working towards the same objective, right? So you better not break my trust again, and my heart."

Maybe Saria was dreaming, or maybe she really did see a smile on Silence's face. Or maybe this one was so tired that she was not paying attention anymore. Her head dropped to look at Quill, now simply laying down against her lap, comfortably. "I won't. That's a promise you can trust."

"I wish." Silence whispered, her eyes closed, before letting once again calm install itself between them. It was a strange conversation they just had, never they spoke this way. Exposing each other's heart, so calmly, and yet, despite the terms they were on now, they could still somewhat find a common goal to fight for. To protect Ifrit.

"Alright," the owl finally stood up after a moment, feeling as if she was falling asleep, and despite having found a consensus, she absolutely refuses to fall asleep on her ex-lover's bed. "I won't take any longer. I still have work to do."

She walked towards the door, Saria looking at her do so, blocked by the small animal who seemed to have fallen asleep near her.

"Good night, Olivia."

Silence stopped just in front of the door, but did not look behind. "It's Silence, until otherwise. Good night, Saria."

And now, it was just Saria and Quill again. Now alone, the Vouivre could not help but drop a tender smile, whispering to the pet next to her, as if it could hear her.

"She really is something, huh…"

#arknights #fanfiction #arknights fanfiction #saria #olivia silence #ifrit #uhhh #stalkiwific #?#new tag dropped

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yuki-kazami · 1 year

Text

While you all are here because I'm being spicy and mad about gay animals, I guess I should also post this bc I forgor:

https://archiveofourown.org/works/45889033

More spicy gay animals (Saria/Silence one-take prompt fic)

((Is this how you link fics on tumblr?? I don't use this shit I just like the art help am I supposed to post the whole text or something))

(((I guess you do post the text I don't know what's happening help im just smol)))

Closure:

Silence took a deep breath, steadying herself.

She could do this.

She needed to do this.

No more ambiguity, no more questions, no more secondhand info from Parvis of all people, that amoral old goat.

The fire with which she had defended her convictions towards Saria had long since burned low. It had been years since the incident at Rhine Labs. She’d married Joyce, Ifrit had grown into a capable young woman. Still, old wounds left scars, and she couldn’t just move on without closure.

Gathering up her resolve, she slid the door open to the observation deck. Harsh sunlight caused her to squint, but as her vision cleared, there she was. Saria stood alone, her back to the doorway, staring out into the vast expanses of rock. Her stance was firm. To most, it would be captivating, inspiring. It looked as if she was prepared to carry the world on her shoulders. And yet, Silence couldn’t stop herself from seeing it as lonely.

She shook her head, stepping forward.

“Saria.”

“Silence.”

Saria turned around as the door closed with a quiet whoosh. For some time, the pair simply stood there, eyes locked. Each passing moment brought more uncertainty into Silence’s gut. Even if the Saria of now was different to the one back then, even if she had grown and learned since her time as director, could she really handle being told that Parvis had been right? That Ifrit had been little more than an experiment Saria had a fondness for?

Or worse still, what if she had been-

She couldn’t bring herself to finish that thought, digging her nails into her palms to bring her focus back to reality.

“Silence, are you alright? We can speak another time if you need-“

“NO! No, I’m sorry, I just…” She grit her teeth, knowing that even with Joyce’s prodding, she wouldn’t be able to muster this courage up again. The cold shine of Parvis’s glasses in that darkened observation room haunted her mind, the moment her reality had cracked, that her heart had been torn to pieces.

“I need to know. I need you to be honest with me, Saria. Why did you leave Rhine Labs?”

It wasn’t what she wanted to ask. It wasn’t what she wanted to know. But she… she just couldn’t bring herself to say more, to risk what little trust she had left in the person she used to rely on shattering.

Saria’s face hardened as her eyes grew distant. “I grew disgusted with Control. Human experimentation is far from the ideals that we established Rhine Labs under. She lost sight of why what we were doing mattered.”

“Oh, is that so!?” A sudden, violent explosion that caught even Saria off-guard. “Really now, Saria? That’s what you have to say? You had a supposed ideological conflict? What about Ifrit? If you care so much about human experimentation, why did you leave her to suffer in their hands?” New fuel brought roaring flames back into her heart.

Saria’s voice remained comparatively calm, if a bit strained. “Silence. I trusted you with her. The paths I’ve walked were not those safe for a child.”

“Oh, her safety! That’s right, you had to make sure that your specimen wasn’t damaged! Silly me, I forgot that you needed Project Diabolus to complete successfully! After all, it must have been a costly cover-up making sure that the old experiment site didn’t hit Columbian news! Parvis showed me that you even made sure to sign off on the flamethrower they developed for the experiment! Very diligent, Director.” Silence was heaving at this point, half a decade of emotion echoing in the still air around the landship. Tears threatened at the corner of her eyes as she aired her grievances.

Saria’s voice rose in kind, confused and frustrated at the sudden vitriol. “Olivia, what kind of person do you think I am!? What the hell did Parvis tell you that made you believe him over me!? That very day, I went to Control and demanded that we go public with the news of Haydn Labs, only to be entirely shut down as being out of line!”

“DON’T YOU CALL ME THAT! Was that the same meeting where you agreed that the experiment should proceed as long as Ifrit’s life wasn’t in danger, and where you agreed to kill her if she had another episode!? And don’t play dumb with me, I saw you just about to until I showed up that night!” Tears flowed freely down Silence’s cheeks, her fists flailing in the air as she stormed up towards Saria, puffing up her feathers to be as intimidating a foe as her small stature could be.

Surprising even to Silence, it was Saria who ran out of gas first. She took a step back, face in her hands, shaking slightly. “Olivia.” Somehow, said with such a grave tone, Silence couldn’t bring herself to chastise Saria again for using her name. “Every night. Every night, for years, I’ve seen that blank gaze, the demon we forced inside that poor girl. I tried everything I could. Words, gestures, violence when I was forced to. All I wanted was for her to wake up, to see us again.”

Silence stepped back, her limbs suddenly leaden against her side. “Saria…” Things were beginning to click together, her worst fears come to life.

“The fire shields failed. The entire block of the landship was about to go up in flames. Potentially thousands of innocent people. And still, for one of the only times in my life, I had a moment of hesitation before I leapt into battle. Every time I hit her, I felt a part of myself die. She didn’t know what she was doing. She was an innocent kid forced to live out the whims of scientists playing God.”

The last of Silence’s coals burned out, leaving nothing but ash in the face of the truth. She wobbled, barely remaining standing as Saria continued on.

“How could I stop, Olivia? I couldn’t win. I had to keep fighting, even though it hurt. And at the end, when she woke up just before… just before I could make my final mistake? She gave me the candy she had saved the other portion of. Lying on the ground, bruised and battered nearly beyond recognition from my own Arts, she grinned because she was so happy I came to visit her. There is a part of me that still wonders why I didn’t kill both Parvis and Control that very night.”

Silence fell to her knees in front of Saria, shaking from the depth of her revelation. “Why… Why didn’t you… say anything…? All these years…”

Saria knelt down next to her, a concerned look on her face. “Because I knew you were right. If I had stepped in sooner, if I had fought Control harder, if I had taken over on the “treatment” to monitor it, none of this would have happened. Her blood has always been on my hands, and I nearly took her life. I don’t deserve her, or you, Olivia.”

A crisp smack echoed out across the plateau, new fire in Silence’s eyes.

“Shut up, you rock brained idiot.”

Silence grabbed the back of Saria’s horns and pulled her into an aggressive kiss.

#arknights #saria (arknights)#silence (arknights)#saria silence #fanfic

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