#The skies above hyrule

[hyliascommonwealth]

// so, Cirrus has gotten a new design to further reflect the people of the sky He is still mostly Skyloft to me, but now he has greater connection to the Zonai who have left a far greater impression on the remnants of culture he has left, likely revitalized by the upheaval and a second wind by link and the constructs. His connection to Skyloft is still his Loftwing Nimbus, but this design is killer for the people who would define the skies above hyrule. So an update to his character page and another revision is coming soon!

[trippygalaxy]

Hey hi hellooooo and congrats on 400 followers Trippy!!! That is a LOT of people cbkwhxiwhfkdh

Now can I request legend x reader where the reader can sing?

Like, they remind him of Marin at first because they only sang quietly and softly around the Chain at first, but eventually when they get comfortable and finally sing something that's actually in their range (im thinking the reader's an alto), and suddenly Legend has hearts in his eyes because of their actual singing voice!!!

Thank you! And yes it tis a lot a of people- which is semi concerning considering the weird shit i used to say /lh

Also wild how this is like my fourth legend request? ((like you're the first one to ask for legend but after there was like a flood of people)) and Second one of Reader similar to Marin??? Are yall like, conspiring together before requesting? /j

Also I hope you don't mind this as a headcanon-

Characters: Legend x Gn!Reader Words: 600+ Warning: Voice Insecurity, Legend being OOC??, Hyrule and The Chain vaguely mentioned/brought up

To say you had a good relationship with Legend was...wrong-

You had joined The Chain as a guide throughout this new hyrule they've found themselves in, and though you were a kind and sweet person, there was something that just had the pink haired vet keeping his distance from you

Maybe he found your nature too clean? Or perhaps he found your voice annoying- you were told by too many how 'squeaky' you sounded when you spoke and even more so when you sung

But thats why you sung so lowly, your voice above a whisper that moved with the late night campfire. You made sure to keep that part to yourself when you first joined the group- you were just a guide, not a bard, but even when you were overheard, you didnt hear any complaints.

At first you didn't pay too much mind to it -the distance from the rough hoarder, that is- some heroes reassuring you that the vet wasn't one to trust easily and you couldn't blame him!

But the longer you stayed in the party, it was growing more and more easier to see that there was not malice in his distance but...an odd somberness to it? You had tried to as the Traveler- the hero who had known him the longest- but all you got was a meek shrug and a hasty retreat

That was...strange, but you did not want to pry, if the veteran was having issues with you then he needed to grow up a little and talk to you about it instead of sulking. Plus, you were just a guide! So if he truly couldn't do such a thing, then he just needed to wait until your job was done

But a mopey hero wasn't going to keep you from enjoying you're time traveling!

And it didn't! ((for the most part)) So much so that you even grew more comfortable with the ragtag team of heroes, allowing your inner self to heal little by little as you found your voice once more.

Yet this growing confidence didn't go unnoticed.

No, your rich, low harmonies did not pass by the ever listening ears of a certain hero. And that was the moment that changed quite a bit between you and the stern hero.

No longer did he avoid you, finding any excuse or none to simply leave you to your lonesome- no, now you can always see him out of the corner of your eye, his ears twitching as your voice hit every note so beautifully.

No longer did a somberness follow him like a growing rain cloud, if anything, it seemed like his skies were growing clearer with everyday that passed- and if you were bold enough to say- with every song that passed.

No longer did the Traveler play messenger when the Vet had a question, no, now the once standoffish boy strides up to you with a walk that screamed 'faux indifference' with a question that eager slips off his tongue.

Slowly, your lonely night shifts turned into quiet company, then to 'private concerts' as you would tease, but Legend did not meet your teasing's with his signature silver tongue.

It was...sweet, how he would quietly give you song recommendations with quick reassurance that you; "Really don't have to do them! I- I don't care...really."

Yet you did them anyways, happy the darkness covered your darkened cheeks as you watched the harden hero simply melt from the melody flowing from your lips.

The change wasnt an instant, if anything, it was as slow as the growth of a plant- but you didn't mind, happy to see the hero finally warm up to you and maybe, just maybe, finally learn why this new change has happened.

@yourlocaltreesimp

[hollysoda]

Dragon of Time - one of the largest dragons to be seen in the skies. It is said to be the oldest of its brothers, having been reported to exist in many eras, and was therefore named after its timelessness. Though some doubt whether it truly is a good dragon, for the sharp markings on its face and whitened eyes give off the impression of something dangerous

Wolf Dragon - named for its furry wolf-like appearance. It only breaks the cloud barrier at dusk and roams the night, it’s somber howl becoming a folklore for travellers in forests. Legends say that it was once a friend of the Twili, and it circles around the Arbiter’s Grounds every night

Warrior Dragon - named for the metal plating that covers its back, and for how it only seems to appear before soldiers of pure heart/soldiers down on their luck. It is said that seeing the Warrior Dragon will bless the person with strength and courage, and if a feather from one of its blue whiskers were to fall before a captain they would be ensured victory

Winged Dragon - the rarest of the dragons, for it favours staying above the clouds and roaming the islands in the sky. Unlike most other dragons, it is more bird like, being covered in crimson feathers and sprouting large wings. It’s red feathers sometimes fall to the surface, and if spotted by a romantic couple they are blessed with eternal love. Some researchers argue that the Winged Dragon is even older than the Dragon of Time

Fairy Dragon - this dragon is often seen floating above Fairy Fountains, and it is said that new fairies are born from this dragon’s scales. It too has wings, but these ones are shaped like a butterflies. Some ancient texts read that parts of fairy dragon can heal even the most fatal injury or sickness, and a great evil once sort out the dragon in order to revive their leader

Long-Eared Dragon - an unusually pink dragon, adorned with golden horns and claws and most notably long rabbit-like ears. It soars around the entirety of Hyrule, but more sightings of it have been recorded around Eventide Island than anywhere else. If you are lucky enough to get close to this dragon, there is a sense of great calm in the air around it, as if the spirit within once fought many hard battles and now roams the sky in peace

Wind Dragon - a brilliant blue dragon that is a popular legend amongst seafarers and fishermen. It roams the coastlines, and is even said to sometimes dwell under water as there are stories of large draconic shadows being spotted beneath boats. If you ever feel a sharp breeze steering your sail away from your destination, it is most likely the Wind Dragon warning you of danger. However, the Wind Dragon is also often blamed for dangerous storms

Rainbow Dragon - a remarkably smaller and yet colourful dragon with iridescent scales. It is said to harness the powers of wind, fire, water and the earth combined, making it quite difficult to approach. Legends spread amongst blacksmiths say that if one were to meld one of its scales to a weapon the weapon would become unbreakable, and in an age where smithing is becoming a lost art many pray that they’re lucky enough to see the dragon

Dragon of the Wild - perhaps the most commonly reported dragon, for some claim to have known the spirit that resides within. It flies low around the entirety of Hyrule, but will then also return to the skies to fly with the Light Dragon. Over recent years it has become a staple sight in Hyrule and stories of the dragons origins have been passed down from generation to generation. It has become a commonly worshipped symbol for adventurers and soldiers alike

[anartweirdosworld]

A second chance

The monsters that roamed Hyrule didn’t know what to make of the newest dragon in their skies. Unlike the others, his flight pattern was odd, unpredictable, the dragon even touched and walked on the surface of the land. One day, a group of Lizalfos were guarding their territory, when I shadow grew above them.

The Lizalfos saw it. The Life Dragon, the one that had ended their leader. But the Life Dragon didn’t show hostility towards them. Instead, he dipped his nose down to the monsters, a thrumming noise emanating from the dragons throat. A Lizalfos looked up towards the deity, and a warm teal light pulsed down from the dragons horn, filling the Lizalfos with its light. When the monsters opened their eyes, they were never the same.

This concept has been in the making for a long time!! As the Dragon of Life, Link always hated the fact that some of the life forms that roamed Hyrule were made in pure malice. He had seen them whilst he was still human, and saw how alive they were when not attacking others purely for their king. So Link decided to use his newfound magic to replace the malice inside the monsters of Hyrule with the wild magic that he housed. Turning them into true creatures, no longer puppets to the demon king. It took a while for the citizens of Hyrule and the monsters to get used to this, but they eventually found an equilibrium. The monsters were granted their own territories, and they even traded with the Hylians on occasion, even the Lynel’s rarely sold bows for material and unique foods. Could Hyrule find peace with its new race? Only time would tell, but Queen Zelda would be dammed if she didn’t try to make piece with her newest citizens

[adrift-in-thyme]

I’ve been meaning to make a post like this for a while now but kept forgetting. Since First isn’t widely known I wanted people to have an explanation of who the heck this guy is (and why they should love him). So without further ado

Who is the First Hero?

(All of the following pictures are from the Hyrule Historia)

The First Hero (or First as we call him in the Linked Universe fandom) shows up in a tiny manga at the back of the Hyrule Historia (that’s basically an encyclopedia for Zelda). He isn’t technically canon and doesn’t have a game of his own. But according to the manga he is the first Link, Skyward Sword Link’s predecessor.

He lived in a time when Hylia was still a goddess and before Demise’s first attack. He was a royal knight, much like Hyrule Warriors Link, and seemed to be a man of great respect and esteem. Until, that is, he was framed for an unknown crime and imprisoned.

He remains in the dungeons for four years. Then, when his so called “premonitions of danger” begin to come true, and Demise attacks Hyrule, his people decide “oh, wait! They kinda need a hero now!” So, they set him free and practically beg him to fight for them. He’s understandably bitter about the whole thing, but being the hero he is, he goes out to battle.

No sooner has he agreed to fight, than the goddess Hylia shows up on her crimson loftwing. She has come to battle Demise and help her people escape to safety.

The loftwing looks down upon the humans as weak and cowardly. But Link stands up to him, telling him “there are those among us who have the courage to fight.” The loftwing admires him for the sentiment, but isn’t convinced. He promises to keep watch over him to see if Link is a worthy rider.

With the loftwing gone to the heavens above, Hylia gives Link the Master Sword

Link doesn’t think he is worthy of it after his imprisonment, but Hylia assures him that the sword knows better. It sees beyond his tarnished reputation to the kind, brave man beneath.

Though Link is still bitter about everything he has endured, he swears to fight for his friends. He takes the sword and hones it into something a mortal can wield.

Then, he goes to battle.

Hylia rallies the other races around Hyrule to help the Hylians. Meanwhile, Link and his men fight for seven days. Despite their efforts, Demise begins to burn Hyrule to the ground.

In the end, Link goes to face him, promising to slay him.

But he is badly wounded in the fight. He collapses, weak and near death. Before he can fade away, however, the loftwing shows up and chooses him as his rider.

He swears to ride with the loftwing forever. Shortly afterward, the dragons from Skyward Sword bless the Master Sword with the power of the Triforce. Then, Link gives the sword to Hylia, who carves Hyrule from the earth.

Link retrieves the sword and drives it into the ground, finishing the job and sending Hyrule skyward.

He wants to follow his people to the skies, but his wounds catch up to him. He falls to the ground. In his last moments he promises that his spirit will always be with his people.

Hylia seals Demise away, even as the enraged god promises to prevail. Then, she goes to where her fallen hero lies.

She holds him, crying over him and lamenting the pain he had to endure to become the hero Hyrule needed. Knowing that Hyrule will need their help once more, she then promises to reincarnate them both. Only this time, she will be a mortal.

This story, we learn, becomes legend in the era of Skyward Sword. And the loftwing who Link swore to ride with chooses the child who has his reincarnated spirit, Skyward Sword Link or Sky.

Now, as for First’s standing in LU…I’m know multiple LU fans (myself included) speculate that Jojo will include him at some point. She’s been cryptic about it when asked though, so we don’t know for sure. Neither do we know when he’ll show up (if he does). So, for now, we can only hope.

…and create our own AU’s in the meantime ;)

[wayfayrr]

This fic was originally inspired by the song Kerosene by tart, as it fits got the strong vibe of a yandere needing more in my opinion and I would recommend listening to it while reading <3 but eventually it spiralled into a full on self-aware sky x reader

And with that tone, they ask me 'If I'm ready…'  

Impatiently asking me to throw away my entire life for them, to cast aside everything I've ever known for the chance, the meagre chance, to stay in Hyrule. To join their duet of death, a fight that seems never-ending.

With only Sky offering me an alternate way, offering instead something more valuable than his own life to me. The offer to follow me, of his own regard instead of a twisted love demanding it of me. 

Yet, still sitting here with Sky has its own charm to it. I don't feel pressured to talk or do anything unlike how it can get with the others at times.

"You know my dove, with a touch of your life I was filled with envy… The fact that I haven't been able to live with you, know you longer than I have. I scare myself sometimes."

His chuckle wasn't as reassuring as he would thought it should be if he were trying to be reassuring to me. He could just be nervous after what he simply just admitted to. I know I would be.

"How would you scare yourself with that Sky..?"

"..."

"... I don't - It's just - I… Sometimes I uh- have thoughts. This really isn't easy to say."

Why is he looking at me like I should already know what he’s talking about like he’s going on about an inside joke? 

“It was a catastrophe, as a result of your sanguine vanity. Your confidence that everything was just a game, when you really knew better didn’t you?”

“...Knew better? What do you mean?”

“That I could see you… that from the moment outside the academy when I was told what buttons you would need to press to control me I started to connect everything, that I was alright with you being the one who had this ability to puppet me? You knew, didn’t you? You fell in love with me at the same time didn’t you?”

“Sky I - I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

Is he - No he can’t be. He couldn’t have known he was in a game. He can’t have been in love with me since then… even if he did know… He should hate me. At best, this is some broken-down mechanical love, some remnant of stray code… Oh what am I doing lying to myself, nintendo made Link as a blank slate, there would never have been any failsafe like that. Because it shouldn’t be possible for him to become self-aware.

“When I first woke up that day it was like there was this other part of me, you it was you, but it didn’t take me long to realise that you weren’t a part of me. You were you and you could control my every single action.”

“My world at that point was a plaything for you but I wouldn’t have had it any other way.  I didn’t need to eat nor sleep when you were there for me, it was like I was complete. I was blinded by looking for Zelda for so long that I wasted the time I could’ve spent just basking in you.”

“I love you more than I need to breathe because you complete me… but you don’t feel the same.”

“Because I’m just a toy to you aren’t I? Be-because you left me. You just left, you left me behind and didn’t come back.”

Everything, he knows everything. Where do I start, how do I handle this? I can’t leave him spiralling like this, it’s not fair to him. Would he even believe what I’ll tell him? Do I want to tell him? 

“Sky I’m not going to lie to you. I did see you as just a game, I didn’t know that you were a person that you were alive. But I know better now. You’re not just a toy.”

“But I was just that to you…  you - you were just like a god that was sent from above to help me in my darkest moments. I didn’t- I mean I know, I shouldn’t have been able to have known any of that but I just - I don’t - I- I don-”

Tapering off into the most heartwrenching sobs after all of that isn’t something I could ever have imagined coming from the hero of the skies. I can’t comfort him. I’m not a monster.But I’m not a god either. Even if that’s what he saw me as, even though that’s what he wants me to be.  

“Sky I’m not a god. I never was, but I do care about you, I’ve said it before and seeing as you need to hear it now more than ever. I love you Sky. The you, I’ve gotten to know over this whole thing with the shadow.”

“But I - [Name] I just -”

“I know this is a lot to go through. It must’ve been absolute torture going through all of that. Can you breathe for me? I’m here to listen to you but I can’t if you’re too stressed to speak properly.”

“I - Thank you.”

The tears staining his face are starting to dry now, leaving streaks as proof of his own sadness, ones that have too much emotion behind to have been faked. All of this has to be true, there’s too much detail on things I’ve never mentioned to him for him to be lying to me based on one thing he’s heard about my own world. Which means he’s been aware of me for so much longer than he’s let on. That he might have known me for far longer than he’s let on. There’s no safe way to ask this now though so I’ll just have to hope he brings it up on his own. 

“I first figured out that I was this character after the dream I had about demise, after I woke up, when Horwell was talking to me about the lost remlit and how he told me to press z to target him, not even calling me by my name he called me Sky. But what made it even worse is I could remember fighting demise, making up with Groose and getting the triforce yet I was back to the start and being called something different.”

“That’s when you knew? Did you realise it was me immediately or did that take longer? You don’t have to answer of course, just talk about what you’re comfortable with Link.”

His breathing is slowly evening out now, clearly his earlier panic is starting to subside. Although now I don’t have my past option of being able to move away from him anymore, not with how he’s leaned all his weight against my side in, if he wasn’t so deeply upset about all of this, what I could call a desperate attempt to keep me by him. With all of this only seemingly proved more by how he’s tangling his fingers in mine to hold my hand tightly against his chest. 

“I first knew it was you when Zelda pushed me off that landing again. Your disgust at her doing that, at her not trusting me even though you already knew it was going to happen at that point. It wasn’t until I was first in the temple with Fi that I saw you properly though. I couldn’t even spare more than a second to bask in your beauty because, well I was scared that if I acted too differently from what you expected then you would just abandon me, but I wanted too more badly than anything. What I wouldn’t have given at that time to just have been able to spare more than a simple glance at you. Who I wouldn’t have killed to get the faintest chance to simply hold you.”

“...What was that last thing you said?”

“What do you mean my dove? The fact I would’ve given anything to spare a glance at you?”

“No that other thing you said.”

“That I couldn’t act differently out of fear that you would abandon me to a lifeless world where everyone was acting like soulless husks only repeating the same line over and over and over.”

“No that very- you know what, don't worry about it.”

The last remains of his tears finally fade away now as he nuzzles himself further into my shoulder and brings up our intertwined hands to kiss my own. Drawing out the moment as long as he can, fitting as he’s spent so long pining for this very touch. What’s going unsaid here is more than enough to be unsettling now, with how overbearing his feelings are getting and how desperate and cheery he’s sounding now. It’s a terrifying combination.

“I realised pretty quickly that it was your second playthrough. That I’d missed out on basking in you because I was too focused on saving Zelda,  but now I’m done with saving. I don’t want to go back to my own world, I don’t want to go back to her with how she’s always asking for more. I wish I could’ve just crawled through the screen and into your arms instead; burn away my past but I never could. I was stuck in that damned game, watching as you were so happy with me even though I wasn’t a person to you - just a toy. I could hear all the things you were saying from you complaining about your day, to how you kept calling me your precious baby girl.”

“Oh so… you heard everything… everything I was saying?”

“Everything. From the sweeter things like when you would apologize for me getting hurt even though I would never have held it against you, to how you thought I looked good in 'that green', how you'd let me do that to you as I finished off a skulltula, even how you thought ghirahim was fatherless. By far the best things to hear were you just talking about your own life, hearing you going on about your day made me feel more real than anything else did. I could imagine myself there with you, as a real part of your life.”

The chill down my spine at that admission didn’t go unnoticed by him as he coiled tighter into my side as if he was attempting for my touch to consume him fully. Like he’s gotten a taste of this touch and he’s wanting some more, like a hit of kerosene or something sweeter. 

"I don't want to go back to how it was before [name], I can't go back to Skyloft. I don't ever want to be pulled apart from you again, because when you finished the game? it felt like nothing was worth anything any more. I'm convinced I would have been better off dead than how I was without you."

He seemed not to be fond of my stunned silence, even still he respected it, letting me have precious moments to gather my thoughts. To say what? Where would I begin with handling this? I can’t question him, he’s so fragile right now and I’m too scared to break him. Maybe just…

“I’m sorry, Sky I’m so sorry. I’m sorry that I didn’t know earlier… that I couldn't help you through all of that, that I didn't treat you like an actual person. Is there any way I could possibly make it up to you?"

If that wasn't the best worst thing to say then, I don't know what I could have said instead. Luckily he seemed to like it if how he’s burning himself further into my side is anything to go off of, proven more by the contented hum he’s let out. 

“Please, just don’t leave me again - I- I won’t hold it against you if it's not your own choice, like how the shadow brought you here to me, but I never want to have to be apart from you again. I want to go back to your own world with you, a brand new life with you is all I need.”

“I promise link, I won’t leave you of my own choice from now.”

“If anything happens so that you get torn away from me - can you start a new save on your switch?”

“What..?”

What good could that be - what if it only made things worse? What if that got rid of his memories? No. [name] you have to trust him on this. He knows so much more about it, he’s the one who’s lived this. If that’s what he thinks the right option is. Then it’s the best option.

“If you make a new save then this time - this time I won’t have to be worried about you overreacting and deleting me - I don’t know if I’ll be able to talk to you -  There has to be some way I can get out of that game and into your arms again my dove. I just know it.”

[fioreofthemarch]

yearnings

[✨ this was written for zelink week 2023 organised by @zelinkcommunity and is a companion piece to 'repast' and 'kin'] Fandom: The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Pairing: Link/Zelda Words: 1140

Despite all that time has taken from her, the Light Dragon can still recall names.

The skies in which she swims belong to Hyrule, and her sister dragons that she shares them with are Naydra, Farosh and Dinraal. Yet the Light Dragon no longer has a name, and her heart cries out in search of one — though she does not know why.

Each day at sunset, her sisters join her above the clouds. Sister, they say, come with us, to where the land meets the sky and where the mortal beings dwell. Each day, for many years, the Light Dragon cannot accept. She awaits another, one who will awaken on the Great Sky Island that she dutifully guards. This purpose, though its details are lost, burns within her.

When the swordsman finally awakens, the Light Dragon senses him immediately. She watches with muted curiosity as he begins to explore her island in the sky. Why had he come to this place? Were all the mortal beings so small? Soon she finds him on the ancient circular landing behind the island’s temple, and watches as the sword in his hand disappears in golden light. She is drawn to him then, called by a voice within: the swordsman must have a sword. Perhaps on the surface, where her sisters call to her, he will find another. Determined, the Light Dragon splits the clouds guarding the island from the world below. The swordsman does not wait; he leaps, surface bound. The Light Dragon follows.

The vast lands below swallow the swordsman whole. There are deep valleys that cut the earth and mountains that pierce the skies. There are churning rivers and yawning bays. There are open plains, marshy swamps, and rolling deserts. He must be out there, somewhere, and across all four corners of Hyrule the Light Dragon searches.

In winding canyons flooded with water, she meets her sister Farosh. Have you seen a swordsman? she asks. Farosh answers: None with valour and courage enough to impress me, sister.

Among rocky crags and cooled lava, in the shadow of a great volcano she meets her sister Dinraal. Have you seen a swordsman? she asks. Dinraal answers: Hyrule has seen many, sister, for blood flows here as easily as water flows to the sea.

Between gentle mountains, as snow feathers down, she meets her sister Naydra. Have you seen a swordsman? she asks. Naydra answers: Yes, he flies as we do, sister. I am sure he will visit you soon.

But he does not. The sorrow the Light Dragon feels at this is powerful and achingly fresh. Against her will, tears well in her eyes. She begs them not to fall; each time they do, they take more of her with them. She tries to hold on, and hold fast, but the tears fall anyway. The Light Dragon forgets why she was crying.

It is not long after this that he finds her. And it was as Naydra said; the swordsman could fly like the dragons, capturing the winds to soar through the sky. He lands softly on her back, his footsteps tickling, almost pleasant. Then he is holding onto her mane, holding very tight; is he worried he might fall? Then she can hear weeping. She hopes he is not unwell.

After some time, the swordsman speaks: “Is that really you, Zelda?”

She does not understand nor does she answer the question.

“Gods… you have the Master Sword. You’ve really had it all this time…”

Then he is moving, light feet padding about her mane. “Sorry, old girl, I’ve gotta take it from you.”

She is just thinking that she likes the gentle weight of him when a blinding pain rips through her head and down the length of her body. She lurches skyward, roaring, but the pain doesn’t stop, and it’s like something is tugging very hard on her head. It is not nice! Whatever it is should let go! It is her fur there! It keeps her warm! Let go! Let go!

The sky suddenly flashes white, and next she knows she is enveloped in clouds of shimmering gold. Calm washes through her and she relaxes, allowing herself to float. The swordsman is still there, murmuring: Hylia help me, I’m sorry. I didn’t know that’d hurt— Are you okay?

Yes, it is all going to be okay. She closes her eyes and recalls the final piece of her memories that had not yet slipped away; she has the sword, which she guarded much as she guarded her island in the sky. How this came to be, and why, is lost to her. But it is no matter. Her purpose is fulfilled. She is at peace.

After this, the swordsman visits her often. He brings her apples cooked in butter, which she eats even though she can’t really taste them, doing so because it seems to make him happy. Then he brings her flowers, threading them into her mane, which she likes for the soft pull of his fingers through her hair. Sometimes he comes to talk, telling stories of the surface, using words she doesn’t understand but enjoys for the sound of his voice. Sometimes he just comes to sit, clinging to her mane, always clinging.

Then, the last time he comes, she is sitting with him on top of the temple on the Great Sky Island, dozing. Her sisters have teased her for this. Sister beloved, what need does a dragon have for sleep? The swordsman sleeps, she has told them, and often sleeps for entire days. It seemed a pleasant activity to try, and she has found it helps her to enjoy the feeling of the sun on her back.

On this final day, she awakens to find the swordsman brushing her mane, running his hands through the strands.

“I have to go soon, Zelda,” he says. “I’ve stalled for a long time. I need to finish what you started.”

He has an apple in his hand, which she obligingly eats. “If I don’t come back, old girl, you know I love you, right? If there’s even a tiny bit of Zelda in there, I want her to know…”

Zelda. She yearns to understand this word. Is that a name? If it was, could it be hers? She does not know how to tell the swordsman this — that she can be his Zelda, if he wants. Instead she pushes her snout into his hand, nuzzling against him.

In response he wraps his arms around her, holding tight. At his back is a noble sword, in a scabbard of blue and gold. Then he lets go, runs a gentle hand across her fur one last time, and departs.

The Light Dragon Zelda returns to the sky, unmoved. He has left her before, and always returns.

Content to wait, she flies away free.

[justpoliteconversations]

Gifts [Linked Universe Four]

It started with a little white lie. Four should have known those don't end well for him.

One of the fic requests from this Post. It grows.

Masterlist

TW: None.

Disclaimer: Don't own The Legend of Zelda franchise. Linked Universe is the fan creation of jojo56830.

---

No matter what time he's thrown into. No matter where in the world Four's feet carry him. He can always count on the local Minish population to find him. It was simply the nature of the small race, to find and to hide small treasures in which the world above may in turn find and cherish.

And so, Four thought very little about accepting gifts from his small friends (his family). From every corner of Hyrule, across every small village and thriving metropolis, from the skies of Skyloft to the hilly slopes of Hateno, he accepting them all with open hands.

Shiny stones. Unusual seeds. Small pieces of metal. Colorful craps of cloth. Shells, amberfied bugs, bells, flowers, leather straps, hair ties, buttons, nuts, lost keys, dried herbs.

Little things. Lost things. Interesting things. And the list goes on and on. Anything the Minish found value in (even if the rest of the world didn't understand it), they would gift him, just as they gifted such things to each other. It was simply the way they lived, and Four had no problem indulging them a bit. It was such a small thing, hardly worth getting upset over even if he didn't always appreciate the small piles of accumulated gifts taking up prescious pack space.

It was such a small thing. He hadn't thought of the consequences when he'd lied.

"Hey! Why you've got all them things?" Wind asked as his usual curious self was prone to do, bright blue eyes shining with interest as he took in the pile of tiny odds and ends piled on Four's inn bed.

For his part, Four didn't think twice before replying. Didn't even bother to look up as he rooted around in his pack for his smithing tools. "I just like collecting things."

"Oh." Wind replied quietly, eyes taking on a contemplative shine.

Had Four noticed, he could have put a stop to everything before it even happened. If he'd have just looked up he would have caught the glimmer of delight that took home in Wind's eyes, the aura of intent radiating off the boy like an ill omen.

Had he been paying attention, he would have noticed the soft honey-brown curl of hair and equally soft hazel eyes staring in from the slight part of the door. And the piercing baby blue tucked in right below them, calculating in their ferocity.

But he didn't. He'd been focused on the task at hand and he'd forgotten himself. And more importantly, he'd forgotten about the enemy that was his brothers helpfulness.

He should have been known better.

And now he's paying the consequences for his inaction. And actions.

One would think the path to Four's misfortune was a slow, ominous slope overlooking a vast pit of good intentions. And in a way, it was.

Except the part where there would be explosions and rock slides and the crash of thunder closing in from all sides simultaneously down in those depths. The winds howling great swarms of debris and sand and dust, sweeping over it all in vast waves, racing up the sides of the steep slopes with fierce abandoned. Turbulent waters gushing from their banks and over the tops of mountains in torrents that brought down whole forests into the chaos.

In other words, it would be the very essence of his brothers' heavy handed affections given form in the shape of one minor observation and the lie that fanned that flame into an inferno.

And it started with Wind. Because it's always Wind. Of course.

He'd given Four sea shells. Three perfectly shaped ones in bright, smooth colors of white, blue and pink. Beautiful patterns of brown and silvery blue faintly etched into the bumps and rounded spikes spread across their glossy surfaces. One was big enough to hold up to his ear and (by Wind's reckoning) hear the ocean. The smallest fit at the very center of his palm, so small he could form a fist around it.

Four had been touched by the sweet gesture, and had smiled and ruffled the youngers hair. He'd put the gifts in his pack, just besides the collection he'd amassed from his Minish brethren, and that had been that.

Or so he'd thought.

Hyrule had come next, offering an assortment of oddly shaped seeds and a tiny apple (fully formed, just no bigger than a grape). From his own private collection, Hyrule had said shyly, blush high on his cheeks and on the tips of his ears. His mouth twisted into a bashful smile.

It was honestly a curiosity for Four, who had never even seen such seeds before (in any of their timelines), despite his Minish connections. So it was with genuine enthusiasm that he'd taken the small collection from his brother, fingering through them with open interest.

He hadn't thought to be suspicious of the silence that had enveloped the camp as he mumbled excitedly to himself about his newest gifts. Even going so far as to mime eating the tiny apple in one exaggerated bite, much to Hyrule's flustered delight.

The very next day, Warriors came to him with a rather stunning collection of coins. Most of which the smith had no idea which country (or even time) they came from, only that they were all immaculately polished and a few even looked to have been restored at some point. Most were in languages he didn't even understand. If they even were languages.

Confused by the gesture, but intrigued nonetheless, Four had thanked the Captain with a smile and a few questions as to the origins of some of the more outlandish ones. To which he promptly discovered Wars hadn't a clue, he just thought Four'd appreciate them more than himself.

The wording had been suspect to the small smith, but he'd let it go. Never look a gift horse in the mouth and all that.

He should have. It was like the flood gates had cracked open and all of his brothers suddenly wanted to ride the waves that were sure to follow.

Twilight had come to him during one of his  night watches and handed him a bag of something relatively heavy and metallic sounding. It turned out to be horseshoes. Or, more precisely, it was a collection of horseshoe shaped items that came in all shapes, sizes and materials.

When questioned, Twilight explained that he's seen Four forging some at Lon Lon Ranch and thought he'd be interested in the different types of experimental shoes he'd collected during his lifetime of husbandry. There were even some for deer, much to Four's befuddlement.

Right on the heels of that odd exchange, Sky had approached him with a whole set of little wooden weapon's models piled onto his palm. One for each weapon type he'd seen used by the chain, Sky had explained, handing them over to the confused smith with a tired smile.

And it was quite the collection indeed. Swords, hammers, whips, boomerangs, bombs and any number of items Four had never though he'd see translated so well into small wooden replicas. Even the bow looked delicate and ornately detailed, the string shape so fine he feared it would break at the slightest brush of wayward breeze.

Four hadn't had the time to question why before Sky had stumbled back to his bedroll and was out like a light.

Legend had come next, looking as surly as ever (though shy too, which was nearly as uncomfortable for Four as it clearly was for him). He'd tossed down a bag of something heavy next to the smith, told him he had no use for them but he'd heard the smith enjoyed things like these, and then stomped away.

They were rocks. Or, more precisely, they were magical stones. Not quite concentrated or powerful enough to be the center piece of any enchanted jewelry, but they were beautiful nonetheless. Most took the form of minor gems or unusually colored or textured pebbles.

Not that Four was ungrateful, but the whole encounter was very, very odd. If somewhat useful. Utilized correctly, these could be used for some light enchanting practice.

Time had sat next to him during one of their extended break times some days later and started pulling out empty bottles from his pack one after the other. Most were so miniscule Four hadn't even realized what they were at first. The smallest being barely the length of his thumb nail, though a few were nearly the width of his palm.

A collection he'd been keeping around in case they may one day be useful, Time had explained, his one eye shining with merriment (mirth, Four thought, but dismissed it. for surely he'd misread the slight pull of his eldest brother's lips).

Very confused, but accepting the bottles being handed to him nonetheless, Four finally asked. "That's fascinating and all, but why are you giving these to me?"

"Oh?" Time had hummed, eye twinkling (with mirth, Four's mind whispered again). "Wind told us about how you enjoy collecting things like these." His eye seemed to take an almost fey quality then as he handed Four the last bottle. "And that you were growing quite the collection already. So, we thought we'd contribute."

Four almost opened his mouth to question, before it finally clicked.

He had said that, hadn't he. At the inn when he was trying to keep Wind from asking too many questions.

"Well," Four began, somewhat nervously. "I just-"

"Hey!" Wild interrupted as he came bounding up to the pair with a wide smile, slate in hand. "I got some stuff for your collection, Four!"

Four didn't have time to speak before Wild was opening his Sheikah slate and out came...

Everything. Everything and nothing at all. Just piles and piles of any conceivable (and inconceivable) thing that anyone could just pick up off the ground in a fit of fancy. Stacks so high Four had to crank his head back to stare wide-eyed at the still growing piles. Objects so outlandish a few seemed to be (pulsing? beating? moving?) imbued with unknown magic.

It just kept coming, much to Four's growing horror. Until blessedly it stopped, and there Wild stood before it all, hands on his hips and a smug, beaming expression on his face so bright it could blot out the sun.

"Voila! I gathered everything I could find for you! Now you'll have all the weird stuff you could possibly need!" He rasped in that scratchy voice of his, turning his head in a near circle to take in the rest of the chain with an air of victory so pungent it smelt of bokobline guts. (No, wait. Those pulsing things are bokobline guts.)

A moment of silence, until Time broke it. "Well?" He asked the smith kindly (deviously).

Four's brain scrambled to come up with something, anything to salvage the situation. But when Wild's expression dimmed and he started to fidget uncertainly, Four's mouth was moving before his rational thinking could intercept.

"Thank you, Wild! I was just shocked you took an interest is all! It caught me by surprise!"

And the beaming smile was back, along with a rasped. "Of course I'd be interested! I even got you the most, because I love you the most!"

'Oh. Oh no!' Four's eyes darted around at the rest of the chain, and sure enough there it was. Sky was looking contemplative, Hyrule just as much so as he looked at the acorns littering the ground. Wars had that competitive gleam in his eyes, Wind looking just as fired up by the declaration and Legend had a stubborn glare that spoke of many bad things for Four's future (and pack space, damned hoarder).

And it was at that moment that Four realized that he was staring over the edge of a steep, steep slope. And far below that slope were the smiling, loving faces of his brothers ready to bring the unfathomable chaos that was the helpful nature of eight Goddess ordained heroes.

And all Four could think as the hands of fate tilted and he was sent spiraling into the chaos was.

'Maybe they're secretly Minish kin too!'

'Shut up, Red.'

---

Back to the shadows for now.

[skyloftian-nutcase]

It had been a strangely… calm stretch of days.

Link wasn’t entirely sure how much time had passed. It was hard to tell down here, with no sunlight. He really missed being on the surface. Playing in the depths before all this insanity had been fun, but it had always been brief. The last time he’d been in the depths had been the day Ganondorf tried to attack Hyrule the first time. He’d never gone back down since then, paranoid about missing another attack, not entirely trusting Ganondorf despite his oath of fealty to King Rauru.

But of course he’d still missed the actual assault. He’d been busy that night – the family had been laughing and talking of old folk stories, and he’d fallen asleep in Nabooru’s arms while Hemisi had snuggled up with her father.

Waking up to blood red skies had not been a good time. Nor had the attempted kidnapping of the rest of the family when monsters had been sent to retrieve them.

That was the past, though. Nabooru and Hemisi were gone, and Link would ensure they stayed at peace. So he’d been playing along with Ganondorf, he’d been exploring the depths and collecting shards of that sacred weapon he’d found.

And honestly… some days it wasn’t too terrible. He’d gone he didn’t even know how much time without the dark magic inside him using him like a puppet. He considered that a victory, at least.

“You look tired.”

Link gazed up at Ganondorf where he sat. The man hardly ever left this little lair of his, clearly trying to build up strength to unleash a full assault on the world above once more. It was another reason Link had to keep suspicions off himself – the faster he broke the demon king’s hold on him, the better. He had to try and stop him. He had to find Rauru’s knight and help him. He’d heard about him enough, from both the king and the Sage of Time – surely this person, whose name was strangely also Link, had to be the key to defeating the demon king.

To defeating… defeating his…

Link bit his tongue. Stop mourning the dead. The Ganondorf you knew is gone… if he ever even existed.

Sighing, he said, “It’s a little draining being down in the dark all the time.”

Ganondorf hummed. “I know. We’ll be out of here soon enough, Link. Don’t worry.”

The words made him shudder. He didn’t want Ganondorf to be out of here soon enough. That was more like a threat than a promise of relief.

“Besides, there’s beauty in the darkness too,” Ganondorf remarked. “I remember you and Hemisi loved to explore the castle grounds at night.”

“That’s because she didn’t know what fireflies were,” Link replied, smiling a little. “That made no sense to me. I didn’t know how you could live without knowing what fireflies were.”

The Gerudo king chuckled. “I noticed there’s something akin to that down here.”

“They look more like dragonflies,” Link replied with a wave of his hand. But then he smiled too. “But they are nice.”

“How many have you collected?”

Link jumped, a little startled, looking at the man again. How did he know he’d been collecting them? Had he been watching him that closely?

“Oh, don’t look at me like that,” Ganondorf huffed, exasperated and amused. “I know how you are. You’ll put anything shiny in a bottle.”

Oh. Link almost laughed, rubbing the back of his head. Yes, he supposed he did do that. Reaching into his pouch, he pulled out a bottle with a few of them in there. When Ganondorf reached out, Link walked up to him, plopping down in front of him and letting a few of them out.

They glowed gently, shining a light on both their faces. Link almost felt warm from it. One of the deep fireflies landed on Ganondorf’s shoulder, and the Gerudo reached to flick it away, but Link stopped him. “Don’t do that, you might hurt it.”

The demon king sighed, definitely exasperated now. “I don’t need bugs on me.”

“It won’t hurt you,” Link grumbled as he let the little creature crawl on to his finger. Ganondorf settled a hand on the teenager’s back, letting him lean into him a little as he watched the firefly glow.

Ganondorf chuckled, and the sound reverberated in his chest as Link let his head rest against him. The shadow warrior glanced up at him, wondering what was so funny.

“You’re so much feistier than you used to be,” the demon king explained. “It’s nice to see.”

Link thought about it a moment, relaxing more into Ganondorf’s embrace, eyes fixed on the little firefly. He was definitely the quietest one in their now dysfunctional family, that was for certain. Link had always been that way, he thought. He’d kept his head down and done his duty – he was a guard, and he was half-Sheikah. He already knew he wasn’t supposed to be heard, that he was a servant to the royal family and nothing more. Having a Hylian mother hadn’t helped much to some members of his tribe, and he’d felt all the more pressure to prove himself. Passing the trials of adulthood at twelve had been an honor and distinguishment, and in a culture that valued honor and duty and obedience, keeping his head down and his mouth shut were the best ways he’d found to do such a thing.

But that was long, long ago. Quiet and dutiful he may be, but he wasn’t a blind fool. His silence allowed him to observe and learn, his obedience was born from loyalty and love, not mindless following. Now that his world had been completely destroyed, he had no reason to filter his thoughts, no reason to hide the fire that drove him, no reason to mince his words.

Well… except to stay placating. Because he could still play the quiet, gentle, obedient boy. He’d been playing it. But doing it for too long was sickening, in this circumstance, so he had to push back when he could.

And if it worked for both of them, he wasn’t going to complain. Besides, it was… kind of nice being open about his opinions. Even if the circumstances sucked.

The firefly glowed again, even brighter. Link smiled at it, watched as it finally took off and flew away to join the others he’d let out.

“Were there fireflies where I was buried?” he asked all of a sudden, not sure where the question had come from.

Ganondorf pulled him a little closer, thumb massaging his arm. “There were.”

Link sighed, closing his eyes, letting himself be comforted for the moment. His throat felt a little thick and tight all of a sudden, and he couldn’t quite get more than a whisper out. “That’s nice.”

[across-violet-skies]

happy (super super late) birthday @rebornofstars!!! here's a silly little fic that is definitely on time and not like 5 months late or anything haha

preview under the cut!

Hyrule landed with a grunt. He fell kneeling, one hand gripping his thigh and another planted firmly on the ground to steady himself.

“Ooh!” Wind exclaimed, scurrying up to the front of the room. A rusted old treasure chest sat on a pedestal, lid creaking as the sailor peeked at its contents. “Aw…”

Hyrule stood up, brushing his hands together. He glanced around the room, examining the situation. They had been portaled– it was still swirling above him– but only he and Wind were here.

That was odd. Shouldn’t the others be here by now?

“Hey, Wind?” Hyrule called, frowning as he stared at the door opposite the treasure wall. “I think we might be trapped.”

Wind’s head shot up. “What?!” He dashed across the room, slamming himself against the door. “Shit!”

The traveler frowned, making eye contact with Wind. “Where do you think the others are?”

“Dunno. And just when I was gonna ask Wild for a snack, too,” the sailor grumbled, waving a hand. Suddenly, he blinked in surprise. “Oh. Wild.” Wind reached into his shirt, pulling out his strange blue rock.

Wild’s voice crackled through the stone, barely audible. “Wind? Where are you?”

“Stuck in some fucking room!” Wind complained, leaning back with a dramatic groan. “We can’t get out. Door’s locked from the other side.”

“We?” Legend’s voice butted in. “Is Hyrule with you?”

Wind glanced back to the steps where Hyrule had sat down. “Yeah, he’s here. Can you just get us out of here?”

-> read the rest on ao3!!

[lithi]

The unspoken importance given to Farosh is driving me insane lol

The Hyrule compendium says Farosh is the “spirit of lightning” and that it “serves the Spring of Courage since ancient times”, it’s body being able to “cause lightning storms”.

Farosh can be found in both the surface and the depths, circling the Faron grasslands and the Gerudo desert.

There is the Dracozu lake, that gives into the spring of Courage and where you can find a piece of the charged outfit, that Rauru wears and that gives lightning powers to its wearer during thunderstorms, being obviously inspired by Farosh and “used in ancient rituals”. Link can also get the two other dragon outfits, but the charged outfit is the only that is given that much importance, through the quest with Tauro.

In the depths, behind the Wellspring of Courage’s waterfall, there is the Dracozu altar (the other two wellsprings don’t have altars), and just above, in the skies, you can find the Dragonhead island, which was hidden by a huge thunderstorm.

Then, there is the courage island, also shaped like a dragon, right above the Thundra plateau, where there is almost always a thunderstorm.

The two other challenge islands are the valor island and the bravery island, still dragon shaped and not wisdom and power themed at all (?).

The Zonai seemed to have their own equivalent of the triforce, kinda, with the imagery of the boar (power), the owl (wisdom), and the dragon (courage), and they seemed to give Farosh/courage/the figure of the dragon a great deal of importance as well (in the Typhlo ruins, the Thundra plateau etc etc).

The Zonai are also very obviously dragon people (most likely inspired by the Kirin, a chimerical creature from Chinese and Japanese mythology), and they’re the bearers of the secret stones, that can transform their wearers into, well, legit dragons.

So a part of me wonders if there is a link between Urbosa and Riju’s lightning powers and Farosh’s… And well, maybe the low-key Gerudo looking Ancient hero (eight heroine?) has something to do with it.

The south-west corner of the map, in the Gerudo desert, is also called the “dragon’s exile”, and right underneath, in the depths, you can find the huge dark skeleton.

[the-depths-au]

WIP Wednesday

A little snippet from chapter 10…coming soon!

Before the Calamity’s defeat, few Rito dared to travel beyond the western border of Central Hyrule. Even his dad didn’t chance the dark skies above Hyrule Castle back then.

There was one traveler who did so regularly, though. Rumors behind veiled wings liked to color him mad, but everyone stopped to listen whenever he returned from distant horizons. A bard by trade, the Rito would sing beautiful songs about mysterious landmarks throughout Hyrule: A mountain split in two as if cleaved by a giant sword, rolling hills peppered with tree foliage every color of torch fire, and a sculpture city nestled in pine trees, not like Rito Village, that glistened every color a river running. It was Tulin’s second favorite song growing up. His most favorite was the Song of the Hero.

He’d looked up to Link long before he even knew him.

[emo-eyemakeup-evildude]

Hello I am giving you an ✨ask about your ocs✨

Astor got turned into a worm. How do they react?

🪱🪱🪱🪱🪱🪱🪱🪱🪱🪱🪱🪱

Birdie's mom from Calico Skies would take him to Lover's Pond, and continue her tradition of returning every year to visit him, knowing that he would be safe and happy living free and in the wild

Vali from As Long As There Are Stars Above You would honestly just straight up leave Hyrule, or get as far from Central Hyrule as possible. If they had the wherewithal to think about it they would put Astor somewhere nice, like the garden or the forest or just straight up chuck him over the cliffs behind the manor into the river. He can't protect me now so I need to get the fuck out of here style logic. Literally everyone else in the manor would straight up not care

Long Road To Ruin ocs:

First things first, Kiaram would just squish him. He would think about paying someone to step on Wormstor for him, because ew worm goo, but he wouldn't be able to resist getting to literally grind Astor under his heel. He would then throw out the shoes and commission an identical pair to keep as a trophy. He would not tell Rhoam, but keep it his little secret that he got rid of him for the king

Althea would put him in the apothecary's compost heap, so he could enjoy all the plant cuttings and kitchen scraps he could ever dream of eating. Vala would put him in their favorite potted plant in the greenhouse and sneak him little pieces of his favorite food so they could keep an eye on him

Acuity would find him a nice potted plant inside the castle. One that's big and well taken care of, where no one would notice him. That's all the emotional bandwidth she can spare to take care of him

Iddo and Delia would make him a fancy worm terrarium in the office (FAR away from the books and artifacts, mind you). Iddo would research worm care and experiment with methods of communication. Delia would look up transfiguration and records of worm curses, more out of curiosity than anything else. If she figured out how to change him back, cool, but that wasn't her main goal. She's more interested in how he got turned into a worm in the first place

Meli would find a way to turn him into a silk worm so she could turn him into silk. His progeny would mar the castle's silk production for generations

Bonus: [spoiler] would be lowkey kind of glad that he didn't have to worry about Astor anymore

[bigsoftmarshmallow]

The Ganondorfs (Wind Waker, Ocarina of Time, Twilight Princess, Hyrule Warriors, and Tears of the Kingdom) & Demise's SO like their new wings! Would the Demon King offer to take them into the skies?

Wind Waker Ganondorf: The Soaring Protector

Wind Waker Ganondorf stood on the high balcony of his fortress, his black raven wings catching the wind. His SO admired the sleek, powerful feathers as they moved closer, their eyes sparkling with curiosity. He could feel their gaze on him, and though he often reveled in their admiration, this time it struck a different chord.

“You like them?” he asked, turning his head slightly to catch their expression.

His SO nodded with a smile. “They’re beautiful.”

A rare, almost playful smile tugged at his lips. Without a word, he wrapped his arms around them and extended his wings fully. “Hold on tightly, then,” he said, and before they could protest, he leapt off the balcony, his wings catching the breeze.

They gasped in surprise, gripping him tighter as they soared high above the ocean, the wind whipping through their hair. Ganondorf’s flight was smooth and confident, the power in each wingbeat steady as he carried them effortlessly.

“You don’t need to worry,” he said softly, his voice almost tender. “As long as I hold you, nothing can harm you up here.”

Their awe at the view made him chuckle quietly, and he flew them higher, offering them the sky in a way only he could.

Ocarina of Time Ganondorf: The Reluctant Flyer, Soft at Heart

Ocarina of Time Ganondorf sat brooding in his throne room, the flickering torches casting shadows on his leathery wings. His SO approached, gently touching the rough surface of his wings with a fascinated smile. He turned his gaze to them, raising a brow.

“They suit you,” they said, admiration clear in their voice.

He let out a low grunt, not entirely comfortable with the compliment. “These wings… they are useful, nothing more.”

But when he felt their arms wrap around his neck, a soft sigh escaped him. Their joy at his new form stirred something deep within him. Though he would never admit it outright, their presence softened the edges of his hardened heart.

“I’ve never flown before,” they said, excitement and trust in their tone.

Ganondorf hesitated for a moment, his usual cold demeanor faltering. “You… want me to take you?”

They nodded, and without waiting further, he gathered them close, stepping toward the open window of his castle. His wings spread wide, and with a powerful push, they were airborne. It wasn’t graceful at first—his SO held onto him tightly—but the feeling of their trust in him made his flight more deliberate, more careful.

“Don’t get used to this,” he muttered, though a small smirk crept onto his face as he flew them over the rolling hills of Hyrule.

Twilight Princess Ganondorf: The Strong and Silent Flyer

Twilight Princess Ganondorf stood silently at the entrance of the Arbiter’s Grounds, his massive dragon wings folded against his back. His SO approached with a quiet awe, marveling at the powerful scales that lined his wings. They reached out, running their fingers along the edge of the leathery surface.

“You like them,” he observed, his deep voice carrying the weight of his power.

His SO nodded, their eyes wide with admiration. “They’re incredible… can you fly with them?”

Ganondorf’s expression remained stoic, but their admiration stirred something deep within him. Without a word, he swept them into his arms and launched into the air. His wings beat with deliberate strength, lifting them both effortlessly into the sky.

Flying high above the desert, his SO’s amazement was palpable. Ganondorf remained silent, though he flew with purpose, taking them higher than they had ever been. The winds howled around them, but he was a steady force—strong and unyielding.

“If you ever wish to see the world from above,” he rumbled, “I will take you there.”

The quiet promise in his words was enough to make his SO smile, and he found solace in their joy.

Hyrule Warriors Ganondorf: The Fiery Showman

Hyrule Warriors Ganondorf stood proudly on a cliff’s edge, his fiery phoenix wings glowing in the dying light of the setting sun. His SO couldn’t take their eyes off them—bright and vibrant, a perfect reflection of his power and presence.

He noticed their admiration immediately, a smug grin forming on his lips. “You like what you see?”

His SO nodded eagerly, eyes wide with fascination. “They’re magnificent!”

With a flourish, Ganondorf spread his wings wide, embers sparking in the air around him. “Then allow me to show you what they can do,” he said confidently, scooping them into his arms.

He took to the air in a blaze of fire and light, soaring into the sky with a boldness that matched his personality. His SO held on tight, but there was no fear—only excitement as they watched the world below grow smaller and smaller.

Ganondorf chuckled as they reached the clouds, his wings burning bright against the night sky. “The skies are mine to command,” he said proudly. “And I will take you with me wherever you wish to go.”

His SO’s laughter echoed through the air, and for a moment, even Ganondorf found himself smiling, enjoying the freedom of flight with someone by his side.

Tears of the Kingdom Ganondorf: The Majestic Monarch

Tears of the Kingdom Ganondorf stood on the edge of a cliff, his golden griffon wings shimmering in the sunlight. His SO watched him in awe, their eyes tracing the graceful curve of each feather.

“They suit you perfectly,�� they said, their voice full of admiration.

Ganondorf turned to them, his sharp gaze softening slightly. “Do you wish to fly?”

Their eyes lit up, and he couldn’t suppress a small smile at their excitement. He extended his hand, and when they took it, he pulled them close, his wings unfurling to their full, magnificent span.

With a powerful beat of his wings, they soared into the air, climbing higher and higher into the clouds. The golden feathers caught the light, making them glow like molten gold as they flew over Hyrule.

His SO marveled at the view, and Ganondorf, though usually stoic, found himself enjoying their joy. “You will never need to fear the skies,” he said softly, his voice warm. “For I will always carry you through them.”

They smiled up at him, and he tightened his hold on them slightly, his wings cutting gracefully through the air as they soared together.

Demise: The Flame-Wreathed Lord of the Skies

Demise stood amidst the flames of a molten battlefield, his massive dragon wings flickering with fire. His SO, ever unafraid of his fiery presence, approached him with curiosity. They reached out to touch the molten cracks along his wings, marveling at the sheer power radiating from them.

“Do they feel as powerful as they look?” they asked with a smile.

Demise gave a low chuckle, his fiery mane flickering in response. “They are,” he replied, his voice a rumble of molten earth. “And if you wish, I will take you with me into the skies.”

Without waiting for a response, he lifted them into his arms, his wings spreading wide as he took to the air in a burst of flame. His flight was wild, fast, and untamed—just like him. But his SO felt safe in his arms, trusting him completely as they soared higher than the clouds.

The heat from his wings surrounded them, but it wasn’t uncomfortable—more like the comforting warmth of a blazing fire. As they flew higher, Demise looked down at his SO, a rare flicker of softness in his fiery eyes.

“Do you see now?” he said, his voice a low growl. “The sky and the flames are mine, and I will share them with no one but you.”

His SO smiled, leaning into him as they flew together, and for a moment, Demise’s fiery heart softened in their presence.

In each scenario, the Demon Kings and Demise, while powerful and intimidating, all show a side of care and protectiveness for their significant other, allowing them to share in the experience of flight. Whether it's soaring majestically or flying with fiery intensity, each offers the skies to their SO in a way that reflects their personality and power.

[dreamdepot]

Dreams of the Kingdom - Chapter 25: The Fifth Sage

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Unlike the other Thunderhead Isles, Dragonhead Island was the eye of the storm – quite literally given the architecture. The island was almost serene above southern Hyrule. “After all of this, I think you and I should just enjoy these islands. It’d be a relaxing date… provided we don’t need to fly on that again.”

“Aww come on,” Link replied. His latest flying creation lay in a heap at the edge of the island; you had barely made it before the wing disintegrated beneath your feet. “It’s not that bad, and we can always use the Purah Pad now. Think about it, we could bring some food, have a picnic, maybe fly around the skies, or we could go to one of those with the pools and have our own private swimming hole.”

“I’d like that.” You looked out on the horizon. You still wore the Charged set, enjoying the warm wind wrapping around you and rustling the thin robes. “It’s crazy how big and yet how small Hyrule looks from up here.” Just then, you had an idea and scribbled something down in a pocketbook. You snapped it shut, shoving it into your pack.

You slid down the vines into the sublevel of the island, following Link as he slashed through some old roots to a massive stone door, the draconic herald of the Zonai carved on the face. The symbolic eye was etched with two hands, making the purpose clear. “Ah, one of these,” Link muttered, getting ready to plant his feet.

Before he could, you reached up, placing your own hand on the left side. “But wait, it tests your strength and saps your health!” Link said.

You raised an eyebrow. “You say that like I’d let you do that to yourself. Nothing says it has to be one person.”

Link relented, placing Rauru’s hand on the other side. Together, you pushed, and the runes slowly lit up. You could feel your energy drain slightly, but instead of exhausting you, it almost invigorated you, like a runner’s high. The dragon’s eyes lit up, and the door trembled. With a rumble it swung open. You couldn’t wait to see what was on the other side. It could be the temple, Mineru’s laboratory, maybe the secret stone! It could be-

An owl mask.

“Not exactly what I expected,” you said, walking up to inspect the Zonaite mask with Link. He tapped the activation sigil. At first, only a small pinprick of light appeared on the mask, but then the floor parted underneath you, revealing another level to the island and a hidden launch bay for Zonai wings. The mask rotated on its pedestal, shooting a beam of light towards the Dueling Peaks. “Looks like Tobio’s Hollow, but there’s nothing there? Just a bunch of old statues.”

On the contrary…

Both you and Link jumped at the disembodied voice.

Link and Prince [Y/n]… Take this. Follow the light.

You lifted the mask – surprised at how light it was. “Please build something a little more stable.”

“No promises,” Link said, leading the way down the ramp.

“Link. My knight, my love of my life. I swear you’re going to be the death of me.”

“I mean, technically speaking…”

“Not helping your case.”

==============================

The flight was, thankfully, much better. No sooner had you landed did the massive owl-like statue shook, lifting to reveal yet another ramp, this time leading to an underground platform. You placed the mask into the pedestal on this platform and it began its slow descent down into the Depths. “If only all chasms were like this,” you muttered. You and Link both quickly changed out of your armor into protection more suited to the Depths. For you, that was the Depths set, which made you look like a rather grim figure but protected you from gloom. For Link, it was the Miner’s set, illuminating the dark and giving you quite a nice view of your boyfriend’s chest and arms.

Link and Prince [Y/n]… chosen protectors of Hyrule… You must hurry, there isn’t much time.

The voice came through a bit clearer this time. “Glad we changed behind the eyes,” Link joked.

My name is Mineru. I am the Sage of Spirit. I am happy to finally meet you both. Unfortunately, I no longer have a body. Without a physical form, we cannot yet speak face to face. But, there is a way. We are traveling to the Construct Factory. Surrounding the facility are four storehouses. I would ask you to visit each of them and assemble a body for me. This is my request to you.  

The platform sunk lower and lower into the Depths, finally coming to a rest at a massive Zonai facility, the largest you had seen yet. As Link activated the nearby Lightroot, you carried Mineru’s mask to the center of the facility.

It’s funny, you look different and yet I can still see Sheik in you.

“He’s the one who sent us to find you.”

Of course. The sooner that you can build me a body, the sooner I can help you stop Ganondorf. Time is not on our side.

“You can say that again.”

Link returned, using his Ultrahand to lift Mineru’s mask into the mold for the massive construct body. As he did, the lotus-like shell closed around her. “You get the feeling…”

“We’re being watched?” You finished. Both of you drew your weapons, matching Silver Lynel Greatswords Link fused for the two of you. “Okay, we know you’re here, come out!”

“Kyeh-heh-heh! I should have known someone as tricky as you could find me.” In a burst of smoke emerged the one and only Master Kohga. “Well, well, well, if it isn’t my nemesis! The Prince of the Wild!”

“Kohga… I thought you were in the southwest?”

He stamped his foot, pointing at you. “I was, but you didn’t follow me! You’re really rude, you know, a nemesis is supposed to chase after the other. I got bored and came here, and good thing too! I found this factory and here I will upgrade our ultimate weapon for our Lord Ganondorf!”

“I was… a bit busy?” You weren’t sure what to say in response to that. “Ganondorf, uh, has a lot going on.”

“Well of course, he’s our great Demon King! The unbeatable Ganon! But you’re MY nemesis!”

“I beg to differ, but whatever peels your banana.”

“Gross,” Link muttered.

Kohga trembled with rage. “How dare you… I will have my revenge – starting with this factory! Yiga clan! Procure those parts so that I might improve our ultimate weapon to surpass the petty Prince!”

A whole platoon of Yiga appeared behind him. “Yes, Master Kohga!”

Your grip tightened on your weapon. “Link!”

“Way ahead of you, you get the east side, I’ll handle the west!”

The two of you ran in opposite directions as you charged for the first storehouse. A Yiga Footsoldier appeared by your side, barely having time to draw his bow before you slashed him. You dove with your paraglider into the storehouse, but a Yiga Blademaster was already ahead of you. Using his Earthwake technique, the room shook, dropping a glowing case with what appeared to be a construct leg inside. “A pleasure defeating you, Prince.” He rumbled, lashing the container up with ropes. Two more Blademasters appeared to carry the case away.

You clashed against his sword, driving him back against the wall, but you knew time was tight with the two Blademasters there. With a quick parry, followed by a flurry rush, you knocked him back in time to fling a bomb in his direction, just as the others were carrying the case out the door.

“Get back here!” You shouted. You thrust your left hand forward, feeling the Band of Hylia grow warmer. Suddenly a metal claw appeared embedding itself in the part’s case. With barely any effort, the chain grew taut and pulled you up to them. “What the…a hookshot?!” you looked at your hand, seeing a glowing blue device in your hand for a moment before disappearing. “Okay, it’s not the Triforcem, but this I can definitely work with,” you grinned.

“No fancy toys will save you from us,” the Blademasters growled. One slammed his fist into the ground for another Earthwake, sending a ripple of energy through the ground. As the wind tore from the earth, you rode the updraft with your paraglider.

“Funny, I was gonna say the same thing to you.” You focused, thinking of your travels. “Fire Rod!” The magic red staff appeared in your hand – much larger than the one you saw with the Four Links, and thrumming with much more magic power. You swung the staff, summoning a wave of fire that formed into a wyvern, racing across the room after the Blademasters.

“What the- what is this!” One shouted, fleeing the fire.

“Fall back!”

The fire licked the sides of the room but fell to a simmer as the Blademasters retreated. “Oh, I can get used to this,” you snickered. “Titan Mitt!”

The Fire Rod disappeared, replaced by a glowing set of gauntlets over your hands, letting you easily heft the case with one arm. You quickly ran back to the factory. The container dissolved as you got closer, and the lotus shell opened around Mineru to let you slide the leg inside.

Suddenly, you heard screams and an evil cackle. You instantly drew your sword again, but you weren’t expecting who the evil cackle came from. Over the hill came a horde of Yiga, fleeing in fear as a vehicle with a spiked front and Zonai cannons came rolling after them. Your boyfriend stood atop the death machine. “RUN! RUN COWARDS! THIS IS WHAT YOU GET FOR ATTACKING US!”  

Most of the Yiga gave up and beat a hasty retreat, while others peeled off to run to the remaining storehouses. Link brought the vehicle to a stop in front of you. “Hey cutie, like my ride?”

“I thought we agreed no war machines?”

“You said no war machines. I promised nothing, especially if it means keeping you safe.” Link looked way too pleased with himself as he unloaded a case with a construct arm.

“I… later,” you muttered. “We’re talking about this later!”

“You can run, but I know you think it’s cool!”

You shook your head, running towards the next storehouse where a group of Yiga Footsoldiers were struggling to move another case. “Okay, let’s see how you guys like a taste of my crossbow!” You shouted, thrusting your band forward.

Nothing.

“Crossbow?” Only a puff of smoke shot out of your hand. “Oh, you’re kidding me.”

“Now’s our chance!” One of the Footsoldiers yelled. “Get him!”

Five of them tried to dogpile you, but they weren’t fast enough for your sword. You easily knocked them back, catching their sickles and disarming them. “Oh, come on, you guys used to be a challenge!”

“HYAH!” One shouted, leaping towards you. You easily deflected his kick, sending him flying into his cohort. You picked up a dropped sickle, flinging it towards the others before charging at the last one with your own sword. In mere seconds, the fight was over, and they retreated under cover of their smoke bombs.

One, however, remained, guarding the case. “S-s-stay back!” The Footsoldier trembled, his hand stuffed in his bag. “I’m armed!”

“Then draw your weapon,” you muttered. His voice seemed a bit familiar. “Oh, hey! You’re the guy I knocked off the cliff over in the Akkala Depths, right?”

“KYAAAH! HE REMEMBERS!” The Footsoldier shrieked. Suddenly, you felt something small bounce off your chest as he disappeared in a puff of smoke. “FORGIVE ME MASTER KOHGA!”

“Guess reputation is a good thing.” You picked up the odd toy he threw at you. It was a marionette, carved to look like… well you weren’t sure, other than it looked like a middle-aged guy in green tights. You tossed it aside, turning towards the case. “Now how to move you…” You looked around at the discarded Zonai devices, mostly rockets. You then looked back at the marionette and snapped off the strings. “This might be my dumbest idea yet.”

You tied the rockets down and held onto the case for dear life, kicking the device. They burst to life and before you could take a breath, the case – and you – shot out of the storeroom and across the rocky depths, bouncing and bounding to a stop right at the edge of the factory. “Ow…”

Link knelt next to you. “You know, you didn’t have to try and show off.”

“I wasn’t!”

Link just laughed, picking up the case for you with Ultrahand and carrying it over to Mineru. With the final piece gathered and placed into the machine, it buzzed to life – ribbons of energy connecting the pieces. With a grinding noise, the machine rumbled and extracted itself.

“Finally,” Mineru muttered. “Thank you, only task rema-”

“Damn it, damn it, damn it, DAMN IT!” Kohga roared, reappearing behind you. “Useless soldiers can’t put up a decent fight. FINE! You managed to steal the last parts for your construct, but I’ve already got enough for my own. Sure, it might not be as great or whatever, but Yiga ingenuity always defeats dorks like you! I’m gonna steal that shiny rock I saw. I’m gonna power up mine, and then Lord Ganondorf will be forever grateful!” With a series of secret ninja hand forms, another flying machine appeared. Kohga leaped aboard with a cackle. “Chase me if you dare! Mweh-he-he-he-he!”

“Quickly!” Mineru shouted, kneeling so you and Link could climb on. “We’ve got to stop him before he gets to my secret stone!”

==============================

To call the Spirit Temple a true “temple” was generous; Mineru’s laboratory was large but very straightforward, more or less consisting of two rooms. “Ugh, remind me later to create an improved form that’s more suited to agility,” Mineru muttered as she stomped up the stairs to the platform.

“Big battle construct has its advantages though,” Link countered. The platform rumbled down to the lower floor, which was coated in gloom. Mineru’s secret stone was safe for now. You rode Mineru across the gloom, when suddenly the floor parted, and another construct emerged, with Kohga riding its back. This construct was corrupted, filled with gloom, and looked as if it was barely holding itself together.

“Heh, this is where I stop you once and for all, and there’s nothing you can do about it!”

Your eyes darted over the battlefield. On all ends you were hemmed in by barbed wire, and nowhere on the floor was safe. “Link, I’ve got an idea. Help guide Mineru and fuse more weapons to her. I’ll take care of Kohga.”

Link nodded. “Be careful.”

You perched on Mineru’s shoulder, drawing your Royal Bow as Link fused Flame Emitters to Mineru’s arms, giving you some extra damage against the corrupted construct. Flames passed through Kohga’s shield, giving you the perfect opportunity to shoot the moment he dropped them.

The ninja master flew off, crashing into the gloom. Wasting no time, you leaped off and ran across the toxic floor. “Remember this?” You taunted.

“No, wait please!” You granted him no mercy, slashing at his backside with a spin attack.

Kohga broke free soon enough, and leaped back to his construct, putting up another shield and summoning his infamous steel balls. You ran back to Mineru for cover, and for the gloom to pass off your armor. Link, meanwhile, covered with his own shock arrows, sending bolts of electricity between the steel balls, zapping Kohga with every pass.

“You’re both infuriating!” He shrieked, charging with the construct. As it grew close, you shoved your sword into its rickety body, locking its arm to its torso. “Not fair!”

You swung your leg up, kicking Kohga in the face and knocking him off his mount. You drew your sword out, just in time for Mineru to slam her fists down, shattering the failed machine. You turned to Kohga, sword drawn. Link peered down at him with his bow aimed directly at his head.

“You think you’re so clever… don’t you,” Kohga growled. The three of you closed in as the gloom dissipated from the floor. Kohga leaned back, crossing his arms and laughed haughtily. “Bold of you to assume that you have me cornered. That may have been my weapon for Lord Ganondorf you destroyed, but that doesn’t mean I don’t have other tricks up my sleeve.” He pointed at you. “That’s right [Y/n], my nemesis! It’s time to bust out my serious moves! A brand-new technique I came up with in the deepest darkness of the darkest Depths! It will… destroy you!”

He clasped his hands together, the arcane Yiga runes floating behind his back as the final weapon appeared. “BEHOLD! The secret ultimate ultra-special weapon of the Yiga Clan! Tremble in fear before my unstoppable Kohga Rocket!” The weapon wasn’t so much a “weapon” but rather a long stick with a spiked ball at one end and about twenty Zonai rockets hastily tied on the other. “That’s right, tremble in fear, you Prince of the… er, Stupid! My genius even scares me!” He leaped forward, and with a creak, the rocket tilted downward… a little too much. “Fly Kohga Rocket! Fly and-”

Suddenly, the rocket ignited, slamming into Kohga and flying him around the room. “Th-this wasn’t supposed to happeeeeeeen!!” His body ragdolled at the front as it zipped up the platform shaft and out of the temple. “I’ll be back! I’ll have my reveeeeeenge!”

For a moment, the three of you stood in stunned silence. Mineru was the first to break it. “I did not expect such strange characters in your time.”

“He’s one in a million, I assure you,” you said.

Mineru turned and approached her secret stone, which fused to the new body. As she did, her spirit emerged, addressing you with grace. “Thank you both, I didn’t anticipate such opposition when I placed myself in stasis.”

Link crossed his arms. “No one did. Ganondorf changed everything. We’re lucky [Y/n] was around to see the problems and to go through time to fix things.”

“I did have a lot of help though,” you said.

Mineru swapped out her arm attachments for fresh ones, while a Servant Construct appeared and checked her new body over for any lasting damage. “In that case, it’s best we don’t hesitate. Ganondorf likely knows I’ve awakened, which means he’ll be on the move.”

“So where are we headed?” Link asked.

“The Temple of Time.” Both turned to you, Link in surprise, Mineru more in interest. “Sheik said that’s where the entrance to the hidden path is; only thing is that we needed Mineru to open the way.”

“That you did,” Mineru said, merging once more with her construct body. You could hear the smile in her voice. “To the Temple of Time then. I assume you have a way through your Purah Pad’s travel network?”

“Way ahead of you,” Link said, pressing the location, and teleporting the three of you across Hyrule.

==============================

Despite the Sheikah Shrines being dismantled – a bit too excitedly by Purah and Robbie – several of the travel waypoints were repurposed, one being set at the Temple of Time. The three of you materialized at dusk, much to the surprise of a few Bokoblins and Aerocudas. None of them stood a chance against the three of you. “Might take a moment to find it,” Mineru said. “The temple wasn’t built in my time, and nothing quite looks the same.”

“Why pick a place that wasn’t even built yet?” You asked.

“Zelda was adamant about making sure it was set here for you. She said it’d be protected, and it would be somewhere you’d know.”

“Fair point,” you said. You looked up at the crumbling roof of the Temple of Time. To think, at one point, you could’ve been married in this beautiful cathedral to Link. Closing your eyes, you could just imagine it – you and Link walking down the aisle, Sharpe playing the organ, the Champions and Zelda in the front row…

You stopped yourself there, looking at Link instead as he watched the tree line for any other approaching monsters. “No,” you said to yourself. “There’s a new future here for us. Once Ganondorf is gone, once Hyrule is safe…” You couldn’t help but imagine Link’s face when you proposed… you could only hope that the custom ring from the shop in Gerudo Town would be finished soon.

“Found it!”

You and Link ran to Mineru, who stood in a small courtyard between the twin staircases that led to the temple proper. Mineru pressed against the column and the cracked windows swung open. “This is it!”

You stared at the window that seemingly led to nothing. Link answered for you. “Um… Mineru, are you sure?”

“I know it doesn’t look like much, but trust me, this is the way in. I just didn’t expect so many changes to it.” She pushed one of her arms inside the opening, which vanished before your eyes. “Believe me now?” She pushed her body the rest of the way in, disappearing into thin air.

Link shot you a confused look but followed Mineru into the strange void. You took a deep breath and followed. Your stomach flipped as you crossed the veil, feeling the window shut behind you.

As you pushed through the strange doorway, you were suddenly surrounded by natural light. On the other side was the Temple of Time, just far grander than the one you remembered. Light streamed through the stained-glass windows onto the polished marble floors. Each of the windows depicted different parts of Hyrule’s history. For a moment, you lingered before one, very clearly depicting your Link holding the Master Sword aloft and surrounded by the four Champions.

“Prince [Y/n], this way,” Mineru urged.

You followed, finding yourself before a massive fresco depicting Din, Nayru, and Farore creating the Triforce, which shone high above the land. “It’s changed a bit since I was last here,” Mineru said. “Before it was a simple room, but it seems it has grown, just as Hyrule has. I imagine the Sages of Hyrule’s history continued to grow and change the temple to suit different needs. Perhaps it was some sort of safehouse in another era.”

“Even I know the stories of the true Temple of Time,” Link murmured. “Makes sense if you’re hiding something here – who’d ever find it outside time?”

“Hide it where time is all happening at once,” you finished. You wanted to stay longer just to explore, but you knew you needed to hurry. Part of you half-expected to see Time here, but only the three of you seemed to be around.

Mineru stood before the fresco, pushing against parts of the wall. Little by little, different bricks seemed to sink back by a hair. Like a puzzle box, each part slid into place, until Mineru revealed a simple doorway below the Triforce. “This is it – the way to the Shadow Temple.” She pushed the door open, revealing a dark portal.

“Fitting, but not exactly welcoming,” you muttered. “Okay, so what do we do?”

“This is where we part, temporarily.”

You turned to her; eyes narrowed. “What do you mean by that?”

Mineru slumped slightly. “I’m sorry, I can’t follow you. One of the trade-offs of preserving my body like this… the path to the Shadow Temple was designed to only allow certain people entry. My construct body would be destroyed if I tried to cross the threshold. It’s likely your sage aspects will not work either. Once you unlock the temple, I’ll be able to join you.”

“Okay then,” Link said, unfazed, “what do we need to know about this place?”

“I worked with Sonia and Zelda to create it – or rather they did most of the work. Zelda was determined to make it as difficult as possible, so that she could be sure only the two of you would survive. Whatever you do, stick to the shadows and do not go into the water. If you run into trouble, I placed several Zonai devices inside to help you.”

You took a deep breath, wondering just what your sister created. “Alright then.”

“One more thing. Zelda made a rhyme to guide you. Follow the Tears to the Horned King. Strike him down to reveal a wond’rous thing. Let the guards slumber night and day. Return home to find the temple way.”

A pit was quickly growing in your stomach, realizing just what you were about to enter. “Zelda…how?”

“We’ll be okay,” Link said, taking your hand. “Ready?”

“One sec,” you said. You pulled your pocketbook back out and ripped out a page. “Mineru, while you’re waiting for us, could you please take this to Outskirt Stable northwest of here? Just follow the road out of the Great Plateau. This message is critical.”

Mineru took the scrap of paper. “I can, but people might not react well to my new form.”

“I promise, it’s worth it. Just give it to the stable hand and tell him the Prince sent you.” You turned back to Link, taking his hand. “Ready, my love.”

==============================

Crossing the threshold felt like plunging into a cold lake. The air was still, smelling faintly of flowers. Hyrule was eerily quiet, there was no sound of life anywhere around you, not so much as a cricket chirp. You shivered, opening your eyes. Light seemed to be inverted. It wasn’t night, but it wasn’t day. It was as if Hyrule itself glowed ever so slightly. You stood at the entrance to the Temple of Time – restored to its former glory – but the exit behind you had disappeared. “Nowhere to go but forward,” you muttered.

You and Link walked quietly down the steps of the Temple of Time, your footsteps feeling as loud as cannon shots in the unsettling world. As you looked out across the Great Plateau, you could see all of Hyrule, frozen. Specifically, it was Hyrule as it once was, before the Calamity. It was the Hyrule from your childhood.

Your bodies glowed in the surreal light. Link looked around nervously at this twisted version of your home. “Babe, where are we? It reminds me of the Trial of the Sword. It’s like it shouldn’t exist. Everything feels wrong.” He was right. It was a Hyrule you once knew, but too perfect. The trees were a little too green, their leaves almost copied from each other. The bricks you walked on weren’t individual stone, they looked more like a painting – flat and uniform.

You swallowed hard. Your skin tingled in the strange energy of this place. “The blood of Hylia flows through my family, but I never thought Zelda would be capable of something like this…” You turned to Link, trying to mask your trepidation. “It’s like Sheik said, The answer is nothing but silence. Link, we’re in the Silent Realm, Zelda’s Silent Realm.”

==============================

A/N: I can’t believe we’re already in Chapter 25. Back when I started outlining this story, I thought it’d take forever to reach Mineru, yet here we are.

That means it’s time for something a bit different. After this story wraps up, I’ll be taking a bit of a break – this is the longest story I’ve ever written, after all! But I do plan on continuing to write. The problem is that I’m having some trouble deciding on the next story, beyond that we will be taking a bit of a break from Hyrule in the next one. I have three choices I’d like your input on. I’ll be doing a poll on my Tumblr for the next story. Your choices are:

Monochrome Redux (Adrien Agreste/Chat Noir from Miraculous! and (eventual) Miraculous Holder Reader) – A handsome hero catches your eye and you catch his, but does duty come before love? And doesn’t his heart belong to Ladybug? In a Paris turned upside down, anything can happen. (This would be rewriting and finishing the unfinished “Monochrome” from 2019).

Falling Stars (Leon/Dande from the Pokemon series and Pokemon Breeder Reader) – Can Leon see he lives in a castle of sand? Can old friendships be repaired and an unrequited crush from childhood grow into something new, or is the Unbeatable Champion lost in the glitz and glory?

Super Royal Assistant! (Bowser from the Super Mario series and Executive Assistant Reader) – Working for Princess Peach as her official assistant seems like a dream job, until you realize how much you have to deal with a certain Koopa King. Why does he keep kidnapping you with your boss anyway?

I have more information on each option, including a quick summary here. Please leave a comment or shoot me a message with your preferred option. The poll will be open until November 29, and the results will be announced in the final chapter of this story. I appreciate your help!

Next time: We conquer the Silent Realm and find the Shadow Temple.

[tennybird]

I have opinions about TotK. This is your spoiler warning if you haven't played/finished it yet. Also all of this is, once again, just my opinion on it and not a decisive fact! I will probably misremember things!

Anyway.

Okay so basically as someone who got it on release and beat it within a week, I'm a little underwhelmed by the game now that I'm looking back over half a year later.

It's not a terrible game! I'll say that first and foremost. But after waiting so long for it, and trying so hard to not hype myself up for it (failing horribly at that), it feels just a bit... same-y. The story is nice, and it's different. The boss fights and abilities you gain during your travels are nice. Everything else, though...

I like the map having stayed similar, with enough changes that I have to relearn some areas. The Depths are really fucking cool, and figuring out on my own that they're a negative of the overworld was incredible! But the sky islands were a little disappointing, I think. When we were told we'd be in the sky a lot, I thought there'd be more large islands like the tutorial one that you could walk around on. More references to Skyward Sword, too. It feels to me that they put more love into the Depths than the sky, in a way.

I like the main story. Figuring out Zelda was the Light Dragon (but not really believing it until the final Tears), and that she'd essentially spent thousands and thousands of years trapped inside herself, was AWESOME. Every cutscene involving her as the Light Dragon hit me hard, and I felt genuine sorrow everytime I saw her floating around the sky.

...That being said, I DO wish we could have a game where you get to actually travel with her. I WANT her to tell me about the minor lore of the world! I want to know about the various flora and fauna, and I want her to talk about Hyrule's history! Zelda is part of the royal family, and I'd imagine that part of her studies pre-BotW she'd have to learn about the history of her family (especially because of the importance of the Goddess' blood...). With how pre-BotW went between her and her powers, and her and her father, I'd imagine she'd make it a point to learn more about their history that ISN'T just the prophecy.

I, personally, did not like most of the temple boss fights. I can't really explain much of why- except for Queen Gibdo. I HATED Queen Gibdo because of all the smaller Gibdo chasing you, trying to chase down Riju for her power... It was a lot of things stacked on each other, and simply not my thing. Colgera was an absolute favorite however! The boss theme is AWESOME, the mechanics of being in the air and having to watch for projectiles, as well as crashing through the ice sheets to take it down? VERY, VERY FUN. Climbing through the sky just to get to the temple itself was one of my favorite experiences. Going up and up and up, and finally reaching the top where you break out above the storm clouds and see clear skies...

A thing that bothers me about the temples is that the cutscene at the end, where the ancient Sages gifts their powers to the new ones... I feel like they could've spent a little more time making them different, even if that meant more time in development. I would be okay with that! I think games should be in development longer in order to produce a good, finished product! Anyway.

The fight with Ganondorf was fun for me. I get SUPER immersed in it, so it was a fearful moment when I thought I'd beaten him, only to see his health bar fill again... and then go offscreen. And the DEMON DRAGON FIGHT? Holy SHIT.

I just wish there was more... substance to the game, I guess? It feels weird saying that. There are more things to do, but it's missing something I can't name. Something BotW had, but is now gone. I like TotK, like I said. It's clearly had love put into it, and I'm glad the developers spent more time on getting it as close to the perfect image they wanted as they could. Maybe it's just cause I've spent more time with BotW (over 300 hours), but I think I'm a little biased towards it. Maybe I'm just getting older and grumpier about vidya games, too. Who knows!

If you read all this, cool! I will reiterate that this is simply my view on it! If your view is different, good!! I'm happy to know there are people out there who enjoy it more than I did. Or if you hate it more than I do, maybe you have other things you want to point out about it that I missed.