#but i prefer the gerudo desert

[party-pixie]

i've taken a lot of photos but i think these are my favorites

[spicyicetea]

My Forest Spirit

A legend of Zelda BOTW/TOTK Yandere x Reader. This is obviously cannon divergent. Fem!Y/N is short and Curvy in this, and is often described with long hair. This story will contain NSFW! scenes, violence and profanity. MDNI

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Chapter 4: You're so soft

I watched in awe at the petals that floated on the water's surface. Red and purple flowers danced in unison, sent in parting directions as Urbosa added strange crystals that dissolved into the water. She motioned me over as a knock rang out from the main entrance to her chambers. Her expression seemed somewhat annoyed but she just shot me a smile before leaving to answer the door.

 Dropping to my knees, I dip a finger into the water, playing with the soft petals that seemed to gravitate towards me. On closer inspection, I actually think I did recognise these flowers. Although I had never seen them in person, I knew someone had told me about them. Her voice rang in my ears like a distant melody that I hadn't thought about for centuries. 

"And what is this one called?" The sweet voice asked, gesturing to a book she laid in her lap.

"That is warm Saffina! It grows near the Gerudo desert." I answer, smiling as she runs a hand through my hair and tucks some loose strands behind my ear.

"That's right dear. You're getting better at remembering all this new information, perhaps I could teach you some magic one day darling."

"You would do that for me? Thank you, my queen, what an honour!" I kick my feet excitedly, my ears twitching as I rocked in excitement.

The woman just raised a hand to her mouth to cover it while laughing. The delicate markings that ran over her tan skin never became boring to look at. I wonder what they all meant. She moved her book from her lap and pulled me closer until my head laid in it. Her gentle touch ran over my face and back into my hair as she smiled down at me.

"Dear I've already told you not to call me that, I prefer you just calling me by my name." Her sweet voice whispered, changing to a hum at the end like a lullaby

"Of course," I yawn. "Sorry, I keep forgetting So-"

"Y/N are you alright? You seem vacant."

My eyes darted around until I turned and saw Urbosa knelt beside me. Her hand rested on my hip as she gave me a concerned look. Feeling guilty, I turned and shook my head profusely. She sighed in what I can only hope was relief.

"Thank goodness, you were worrying me for a minute there. One of the knights just dropped off some clothes that should fit you, if you wish to bathe now we can."

My eyes lit up at the idea of being able to be in warm water for once and I jumped up. Eagerly, I slid my skirt of leaves down, nearly ripping apart the scrappy shirt that I had been given by Hestu. The clothes lay abandoned on the floor as I stretched. Urbosa's eyes widened as they met my body, her honey skin going a soft pink. My hands moved to cover my body, unsure why she was acting like that.

"Are you alright? Is there something wrong?" I ask, stepping over to make sure she wouldn't collapse.

"Yes dear I'm fine, I just hadn't expected you to undress so quickly. Why don't you step into the water while I prepare the soaps?"

I beamed at her suggestion and nodded eagerly. Swiftly, I turn on my heels and walk towards the deep tub. With an arm under my chest to stop the bouncing from my jumpy steps. Warm water in the sunken tub wrapped around my body as I lowered myself in, only reaching my hips. I felt almost weightless as I danced around the tub, enjoying the comfort of the heated water. A warm chuckle echoed through the bathroom as Urbosa watched me play. Excitedly, I turned to her, some flower petals stuck over my shoulders and chest from where I had been tossing them around. 

"Oh, I can't believe you all have stuff like this! It's so nice!" I grin at her.

She chuckles at my reaction and strides towards the tub. 

"You sweet little angel, relax for a moment. Think of all those spirits that you wanted to tell me about."

I had completely forgotten what we had even planned to talk about. My back turned to her as I began thinking. There were many spirits I had met over the years. The Koroks have always been there, but many more visited me over the centuries. One of the fondest had to have been the woman I was thinking of earlier. She was always so sweet to me, running from her husband to read books to me and teach me about the world outside the forest. I knew she was a queen yet I can't remember her name. How bittersweet. The more I think of it, I can barely remember her husband either. He looked nothing like her or even myself. His warmth is all I can remember. When he'd find where his wife had disappeared to, scolding her for not telling him where she was going as he had been worried. The way she'd pout and hug me tighter telling him to just leave so she could go back to relaxing. He'd always roll his eyes and sat beside her. His long nails raked against my scalp, quickly lulling me to sleep as their conversation slowly drowned out.

I jolted as I felt a hand on my shoulder. Panicked, I attempt to turn but the hand holds my chin in place. 

"Calm down it's only me, you wanted me to wash your hair, right?"

"Oh, yes. Sorry, I forgot."

Urbosa just chuckled and ran a hand through my hair, making sure it was all wet. The water moved around me as I felt something soft press against my shoulders and neck. I shivered at the contact and I tried to turn to see what it was but Urbosa held me in place, running a hand over my waist.

"Don't worry dear, just relax, let me take care of you." She whispered, her warm breath tickling the back of my ear. 

My breath caught in my throat as her hands rested on my sides. Her warm lips pressed against the side of my neck, and one of her hands reached elsewhere out of my sight. I gulped as her hand came back to my shoulder, massaging a cold gel against my skin. Her hand slowly massaged closer to my chest and my breath hitched again.

"I thought you just wanted to wash my hair?" I gulped.

"Oh my apologies dear, I just wished to help you relax dear, a massage. May I?" She cooed, her lips pressing on the shell of my ear,

I gulp but nod as her hands knead my shoulders and slowly move down to my chest. The bubbles gathered over my skin as her fingers pressed into the soft fat on my chest. Her hands massaged further squeezing at the plush mounds. A strange sound bubbled from my throat escaped, like a songbird's call. 

"Urbosa! Lady Zelda called for you an hour ago, get your hands off of Y/N and do your job!" A masculine voice barked. 

I turned in panic to the doorway where Link stood, covering his eyes with his hand.

[asktheyigamaster]

Hi Mr Kogha, what's your opinion on all four of Hyrules champions? If you weren't mortal enemies, do you think you'd get along with them?

Well this is a very big if isn't in? Would you ask the Rito Champion if he would be more pleasant if he hated flying? Or the Princess if she would be sympathetic to the Yiga if she wasn't a princess? That's an entirely different life you're asking about.

But oh well, I can try.

First and foremost, allow me to astonish you: I'm glad Championd exist. Obviously as individuals, as people they are horrible, but Champions are also pilots of Divine Beasts. And Beasts deserve to have pilots. After 10 000 years alone and immobile, burried underground, they deserve to have someone close to them, someone who allows them to fulfill their purpose as vehicles and move around. The Divine Beasts wouldn't bond with someone they are incompatible with, so they are in good hands.

It would be dishonest to say that I never feel bitter that the Pilots of Divine Beasts are my, I mean Yiga, enemies. The King ordering them dug back out on a whim also feels like an insult. And it is! But the Beasts were always meant to belong to their respective tribes afterall. No gift-back-sies and all that.

It also is annoying how little Champions know or understand about these machines, purely as someone who does. I am sure they haven't even considered the implications of the fact that Ganon managed to bond to, and seamlessly pilot the beasts for 100 years. And that the friendly Daruk had the most trouble bonding with Vah Rudania compared to the rest of them.

But if there were no Champions when Calamity Ganon emerged 100 years ago, the King might have scrambled the excavation efforts. And the vindication of Hyrule's doom, wouldn't have been as delicious without the involvement of the Ancient Sheikah weapons. So that's good.

If we weren't enemies I would be begging to be taken on a ride daily.

Now to the individuals

Daruk

is easily the most capable Champion of the bunch. When it comes to his skill as a warrior, mage, member of a team, everything. Without his cheerfulness their group would've crumbled within weeks. There is a good reason why among all Champions, he is the only one recognized by his own people as a hero. Not a just as a skilled individual, or leader, or royalty, a hero.

And I think in this timeline where I'm not trying to kill his friends around him we would get along swimmingly! To be honest, he feels almost as if, if I showed up at Goron City right now, without a disguise, said "I'm on vacation from villainy, wanna show me the sights?" Daruk would agree without a second thought. Not for being gullible, but because his massive body comes with an appropriately sized heart, AND if I was lying about the vacation he would prefer himself to be the closest Goron to me when something happens.

I should actually try that

Urbosa.

Why did ALL the Champion's had to miraculously return? I would prefer none, but her too feels personal.

The 100 years after the Calamity when she was dead... What a great time to be a Yiga. But no, the greatest party pooper in all the land can't just stay dead.

See, the THE DESERT is a rather difficult place to live in, and Gerudo would be a great help with that, on account of being easy to steal from. If it wasn't for their Chieftain. Stiff and humorless, consistently thwarting Yiga plots is one thing, understandable even. But somehow sucking any fun to be had from the back-and-forths is unforgivable.

She is ridiculously dedicated to normalcy, to keeping things the way they are. Somehow even passionate about it. The way she fights and speaks and calls down lighting, you only see it in people with real fire in their hearts. To me this sound like an impossible contradiction, but there Urbasa is, very unfortunately real.

I had to deal with her longer then anyone around today. Even Champions, including the big frowny herself, don't realize that without Urbosa's one and only soft spot for Princess Zelda, she would long have cut the rest of them down for being annoying, or just diched the group altogether. This is true! You would agree if you tried to crack a joke around her before blondy came about!!

Could I get along with her? Never. Even if I didn't hate all of Hyrule, even if the Yiga were accepted people of the kingdom, if we're in the desert we would not know peace with Urbosa. Maybe with the Gerudo in general, but not her. The only timeline where we don't try to kill each other is the one in which we never cross paths.

Mipha

or as I like to say, The Better Princess. How good for the people of the Zora Domain to still be able to call their leaders kings and princes, despite being subjects of a larger kingdom with its own unrelated monarch. Good for them. There is good reason why after two back to back apocalypses their domain is holding out by far the best.

I don't think I can tell much about the Zora Champion though. She's just too damn quiet, I barely see her. If a proclivity for healing sorcerery is any indication she's probably really nice and caring.

Given the honor of being personally dispatched by Ganon at such a young age... Honestly, 100 years ago I thought Dorephan was going to be the Champion, but I guess you need to fit into a Divine Beast to pilot it.

With Zora longevity, I do think Mipha would understand best of all Champions, what it's like to hold onto a 10 000 year old oath of vengeance. Her brother would even better.

If the rulers of the Zora Domain had some bravery, they would proclaim the lands of now destroyed kingdom of Hyrule their territory, their lake city the new capital, and their throne the new seat of power for all the land. They would rule better then any Hylian, that's for sure. The Yiga would support them.

Afterall, the mission of the Yiga is the destruction of Hyrule kingdom at the hands of Ganon, and the end of the Hyrule royal bloodline. If Zelda stays childless, we don't even need to talk about some kind of timey boogaloo. Mipha has the power to end our status as archenemies right now.

Revali

Speaking of actual children personally slain by our Lord and Destroyer. Yeeesh! What a fascinating lad. The Rito already don't live long and they still somehow managed to pick a fledgling to fly die for them.

The only Champion unrelated to a Sage. I say it without shame, it took centuries for Kohga to be called Master and here is the Rito equivalent throwing the title around after being alive for only 0.2 times that time. And being a Master is special. No chosen-one-ness, no noble blood, nothing compares. It's not a real title or position either, you only become one when people start referring to you as such and noone argues because it obviously fits. A Master is someone of incredible skill, a pride of their people, a leader, a mentor, a backbone of society and an inspiration. Someone everyone can look to for guidance and aid. And you have to be all of that and more, you can't slack on anything, you have to be perfect. All the time, you have to be what your people need at every moment.

And while I personally am not sure Revali would qualify for the same prestige had he been a Yiga. Afterall, a gloomy, mean-spirited attitude such as his is a clear sign of weakness, a concession to the hardships. How are you to inspire others to strife for your greatness if you yourself are a depressive wreck? Noone wants to be unhappy, obviously, why would they want to be you if you aren't having fun? But this is not my decision to make, but that of the Rito people. And they sure are quite unanimous.

I guess achieving something completely unique, never before seen, especially something as critical and useful as being able to fly upwards AS A BIRD PERSON, would condemn anyone to greatness, no matter how badly they take to hormonal flushes. Can you believe he got as close to obscurity as he did? Within two-three Hylian lifetimes he was reduced to a mere legend, his signature skill not considered an impossible fantasy only by, frankly, the most insane of his kind? Scary thought.

Truth be confessed, I keep returning to thinking about modifying our age manipulation technology so that it may slow Rito aging. If they lived longer lives, had a need for sturdier homes and monuments. Had enough time to develop a proper grudge. Would they be allies to the Yiga? Quite probably. Not probably enough to risk this much resources and Sheikah attention though.

[inspiteofganon]

I think ganondorf would be so confused by homophobia. like yeah obviously hes attracted to men. he took a course on wooing them. obviously hes attracted to women, why wouldnt he be women are great

The gerudo would not give less of a fuck about sexuality i think. i think the majority of them would be married to women and only seek out men to have children with

Oh yeah such a thing would definitely be nonsense to him, I think. Petty garbage for spoiled weaklings to fuss over. "Who cares if someone's attracted to the same sex? Every day my people struggle in the desert etc. etc. Hand Over The Triforce." sentiments.

Most of my headcanons about Gdorf and the gerudo only selectively factor in BotW/TotK-timeline things such as the dating classes, in preference for OoT-and-its divergents-inspired stuff and also "things my roommate says". I must confess I prefer them a bit more on the chauvinistic side... consistent, feisty, and proud... i.e. "everybody keep out" > "men keep out, women/agenders are fine". Why make exceptions for some hylians but not others?? Girl, the imperialists...!

I definitely agree they don't really "give a fuck" about sexuality. Maybe only a sliver depending on context. It's not really relevant to most of them unless they wanna start a family or fall in love. Being a 100% straight gerudo must kinda suck though since your only options are either hitting up Ganondorf (if there's even a gerudo king at home at the moment) or learning how to woo some outsider voe... or transmasc gerudo, if you think they'd have enough of those in the open. I like the idea of there being a lot of lesbian and bi gerudo... I want to see a gay gerudo wedding... they're socially monogender except for the times they have a king, so social sexuality really isn't something I think they'd really think seriously about except for the aforementioned reasons. Just more garbage that the peoples they steal from waste time on! Lame. Even the "vai" others have are so socially different despite physical similarities that they just don't vibe the same as other gerudo.

As for Ganondorf and his own Gay Thoughts... man, where to even start with what I have in mind for that guy. Besides the fact that he can't be normal about anything ever.

If vai take lessons on how to romance and woo voe, Ganondorf I think would at least know how that works. He has to know how the things his subjects consider important work-- how else are they going to respect him?! To hylians, I think, getting to know him long enough he'd start to come off as a guy with an unusually deep knowledge of what most might call "women's business". Up to and including him knowing how to go about getting a boyfriend if he really wanted to. But back to GAYNESS... I think it'd be complicated for him. Because Ganondorf is a very superior man who thinks little of everyone else, especially if they're not gerudo. So if one approached the topic of his orientation-- assuming his response wasn't just "who cares? not me"-- he might not be able to give you a straight (lol) answer on the sole basis that there aren't any other males of his own kind to measure his reactions with, and that he looks down too much on other peoples for him to think they truly count.

But on the FLIP side of that!! Other men could be, for lack of a better word, a "safe space" to play with his own sexuality, since them being of so little matter makes them more approachable in that sense. Goodness knows he's up to his eyeballs in women at home, but men? They're novel, they're disgusting but mandatory to his people (though they insist he's the one good one! they swear!!), and like it or not, the common voe outside Gerudo Valley are lumped into the same category that he is by most. They're so like him, but so not. They don't have the same expectations he has on his shoulders. Perhaps a part of him might envy their freedom and camaraderie... and enjoy intimidating them as a result, and thinking something like "Wow, you're nearly the kind of gender I am... heheh..." while watching them squirm in his presence. What passes for a man in Hyrule is different from what he's been raised to be...

So yeah in my opinion he's DEFINITELY got some gay potential boiling under the lid. He's not gonna think about it or act on it in a sane or healthy way though.

[catyo90]

Fighting Fate: Chapter 1

Zelgan Fic For the wonderful and inspiring @s-kinnaly

(Let me know if you guys want me to continue.)

Zelda’s nerves were almost completely shot at this point in the meeting of the Gerudo King. The kings eyes were fixed on the Zonai King but every few moments she would catch them on her instead clearly he was not at all interested in the words of the king. It was only when Rauru motioned for him to rise from his kneeling position did his attention return. 

“There is one other matter I have been told by our dear relative Zelda that you two wished to confer with in private, if you are still willing Lord Ganondorf.” 

Rauru said however not before looking to her for confirmation for her approval. Zelda simply smiled and nodded to him as she walked down the small stairs to stand in front of him. Standing so close to him she was able to get a much better look at him. 

A blind person could see how strong and built he was. But what truly caught her attention was his eyes. They didn’t show hatred toward her or even any malice from his incarnation of Demise. All she saw were the tired eyes of a man who clearly wanted change.

She could feel her whole body shake ever so slightly as she tried to remain calm. She watched as Ganondorf turned to his troops motioning for them to await for him outside. Zelda in turn watched as Rauru and Sonia left while the guards followed behind leaving through the main door.

Silence....complete and utter silence fell upon the room as they both stood in front of the other. But it was she who spoke first.

“King Ganondorf of the Gerudo. I see it in your eyes that you can sense in me what I can sense in you.”

Ganondorf eyes slightly became wider as he could feel a echo of the powerful aura in her. The stone she wore glowing a faint gold. He could sense the goddesses light in this small Hylian. And for a moment his mind wondered as to how someone so small could hold so much power. In turn she could sense malice in his body but it had clearly had not been fully awaken...at least not yet.

“Yes, Lady Zelda... I can sense the light of the goddess Hylia in you just as you can  the malice of Demise will always torment me...”

He kneeled in front of her to meet her at eye level as he place the blade beside him away from her.

“A fate and a curse that I wish to change...” 

His voice was low but his words were as warm as the Gerudo desert. She could sense in him...at least for now...that he was not lying.

“However...” he said and almost instantly did his words turn cold as he looked around the castle.

“These walls have many eyes and ears. I would prefer we speak on the matter in a more trusting place.”

He was silent for a moment and in a quick fluid motion he simply grabbed his blade and turned away from her walking toward the gates of the castle but stopped short as he looked over his shoulder to her.

“Come to my kingdom in one weeks time. There we shall speak of your offer, that is my term. Agreed?”

Zelda merely bowed her head knowing all too well that this man was both cautious and ambitious. A combination that she knew could be dangerous. But she knew this was for the best for not only their people of this time period but the future as well, after all it was her duty.

“As a sign of good faith I will lower my forces on our borders. I will await for your arrival. Lady Zelda”

-

“Are you sure you wish to go through with this Zelda? I understand our fates are etched in stone in the future. There is no guarantee that even if he accepts your proposal, that he will keep his word.” Mineru said crossing her arms with a concerned look on her face.

“I know you’re worried for me. But with there being no other way to return to my time. I must find a way to keep peace between our lands for as long as I can.” she said touching the stone on her necklace.

“There is truly nothing we can say to change her mind dear Mineru. I believe in her and if this is truly how we gain peace...then we must stay hopeful.” Queen Sonia said as she walked up to Zelda taking a hold of her hand giving a silent prayer.

Zelda smiled to both of them as Rauru stood behind them. Both of them understanding the other even without words. Zelda stepped back from them as she saddled her horse, a fair and giant steed that had been gifted to her. 

“I promise...” was all she said as she rode off with a small group of Hylian soldiers to protect her by Rauru’s orders

-

Seven days and nights pasted when they had arrived at the border of the Gerudo kingdom. Zelda could see along the border were many female warriors but far less than what expected. Between the mountains and up ahead of the path was a small troupe of Vai warriors blocking the path beside what looked to be a scouting tower. Zelda stopped her horse as the leader walked ahead striking the ground with her spear.

“Sav’aqq. Lady Zelda, we of the Gerudo have come to escort you to our King. However your voe warriors will not be permitted in the city. Is this acceptable?”

Zelda nodded and saw the troops turn around as they walked down the path leading to a small stable with a few sand seals awaiting for their riders. She dismounted as only the few female hyrulian that had accompanied her did the same. The Gerudo women called for their sand seals and motioned for the others to get on. Zelda wrapped her arms around rider as the sand seals sped forth quicker than she had ever known they could.

It was only a matter of a few moments when they arrived at the gate to the city. A few eyes glared in caution as few children hid behind walls as their mothers stood in front of them with a hand on their weapons. 

“I didn’t expect such fear toward us...though I suppose I should have been aware that we would not be as welcome than the others have been.”

“What would you expect, Lady Zelda. Years of distrust will do that to anyone. Vai or voe.” The commander from before said as she walked them closer and closer to the home of their ruler.

Up ahead of her was the castle for the great Gerudo King. It was much bigger than from her time, multiple fabric were wrapped around the top of it connecting to the taller buildings with a large archway at the front adorned in gold and carvings of their history. There she saw him standing at the top of the stairs there in the blazing sun and being honest to herself, she could confirm with herself in that moment that he was truly a handsome man. 

The last time she saw him he was nothing but a rotten corpse but now, it was like the moon from the sun. His long red hair blew in the desert air as the clothes he wore clung to his well toned and shaped form. A chiseled body only adorned more by the gold he wore as he looked down at her. While he wore no expression he had to admit he was surprised that she had come all this way. 

She let her guards wait outside as she walked up the stairs to watch as he kneeled before her once more this time with no blade in hand and instead offering his hand to hers which she took as the eyes of every Gerudo laid on her and he spoke. 

“Welcome to my Kingdom.”

“I am honored to be here. King Ganondorf.”

He smiled to her almost mischievously, clearly he enjoyed it when she called him king. He released her hand as he turned around to the large throne in the center of the room. He waved a hand at his guards.

“Leave us.”

They bowed their hands before leaving the royal chambers as Zelda stood before him he got a much better look at her. She did have some similarities to Queen Sonia, strange though how he had never heard of her before.

“So what is it that you would ask of me, Zelda.”

“I have a proposition that may benefit both of us. I propose a political marriage between us. To ensure that no harm be done or come from each of our kingdoms.”

A large smirk ran across his face for a moment as he leaned in a tad bit closer in his throne to look at her directly.

“Do not toy with me dear Zelda...I know that the Zonai have no love toward me or my people. Marrying you would be not different than swearing my services to them. My people deserve to be equals not servants.”

“Then allow me to stay with you here in your kingdom. In the realm of the Gerudo instead of Hyrule. And I swear that I will make Rauru allow you to rule as a King of the Gerudo not a lord. Your people and ours will have no more ill will toward the other if they see us married.”

He said nothing as he looked her up and down for a quick moment. She was not unattractive. But there was one matter that crossed his mind.

“Are you even of age to ask such a thing. I may not be the best ruler but I will not share a bed with a child.”

Zelda’s face went red for a moment but not at the thought of what he suggested but forgetting that she was technically older than she looked but he was even older in those terms. She gathered herself as she looked at him.

“Yes I am...and the offer still stands. Even if you think low of my kind. I want what is best for both our peoples. There will be no need for war. Your people will live not just survive.”

Ganondorf chuckled to himself.

“Your kind? You think I hate all Hylians? Tell me my lady, did you ever wonder why my annoyance is focused more toward Rauru than anyone?”

“Surely because of his want for you to swear fealty to him?”

“Well...I must admit that was some of it. But that was not it entirely. You see dear Zelda...Queen Sonia before caught my eye. For more reasons than one...”

Zelda was slightly taken back. Did the man she know as the Demon King have feelings toward Queen Sonia before she had been wed.

“But now...I will be even more honest toward you dearest Zelda...you have peaked my interest in this union.” He said sitting up from the throne adjusting his hair to it laid over his shoulder. 

“I would hope it to be a marriage not completely void of affections.” He said with a smile on his face as he watched her cross her arms.

“That depends on two important factors for this union to work.”

“Oh? and what would that be?”

“First, You respect me as a partner and a woman and treat me no lesser than if I was one of your own, in return I do the same. I will not treat you as a possible threat but instead as a man and a partner.”

‘and secondly?”

“We cause no harm to the other, only then can we have complete faith in one another.”

“Hmph...So be it.”

He lowed his head down to her and smiled this time seeing her for the Hylian woman she was. The dress she wore clung to her form beautifully the pure white color only adding to it as the accessories she wore shined a bit in the sunlight making her look more radiant than the days before. Her green eyes shining more vibrantly as she looked up at him without any fear in them. 

She was different from the other hylians. She was intimidated by him but there was no fear. In truth his interest was now peaked and so was hers. Could she change the future doing this? or would it be all for not. It didn't matter to her, if there was a chance to change their fates she would take. No matter what.

[critical-birb]

Daruk would kick the shit out of any of the other Champions at strategy board games/other similar types of games. People tend to pigeonhole him as the big dumb brute (and in some ways he is) but I think it's a very common activity for Gorons to play their own versions of board games (they've definitely got some version of Go and almost certainly checkers as well) by drawing lines in the sand and using rocks as their pieces. I'd even argue that they were the ones who did it first, and Hylians co-opted the ideas to their own games (which they "distinguished" with much more finely crafted pieces and higher society stigma and such).

A lot of Daruk's general silliness seems to stem from the fact that he's pretty set in his ways and isn't very familiar with things non-Goron. Moving pieces around arbitrary lines to win a game? That's Goron as hell. Daruk *knows* his way around a board, he has the art of the game DOWN. Zelda's the only one who can compete with him, though I think her knowledge of strategy was more of an expectation for her role in society, plus chess and its cousins are some of the only acceptable games for a princess to play. Urbosa's a little too aggressive and impatient, Revali laser-focuses on one strategy early on and often fails to notice counterplay he didn't plan for until it's too late, Mipha's too overanalytic and second-guesses herself into losing far too often trying to predict strategies that weren't there, and Link has no clue what he's doing. Daruk? Daruk is the board game guru.

He still doesn't like the games with tiny pieces though. Much prefers playing with good old fashioned basalt and pumice.

AHAHAHA OMG YES!!!!!!

Daruk (and the Gorons in general) are played off as such big dummies even though they're clearly a very powerful and capable race of people. They also have board games in their little houses in Goron City, they clearly know strategy.

I mean - in Botw how were each of the races handling their Divine Beast issues??

The Gerudo were just stumped, letting it wandering the desert and freaking out.

The Rito had two warriors try to take theirs down with bow and arrow dispite knowing from the first time it didn't work.

The Zora, at least, had a plan - but it involved shock arrows they couldn't personally use and needed help with.

The Gorons however had everything kinda covered on their own. They had a whole bunch of canons already built and set up, and it sounds like Yunobo and the leader guy had been blasting the thing for a while to keep it away. They were miles ahead of all the other factions of Hyrule. They stratigised and came up with a working plan in short time, utilising the skills and materials they had.

The Gorons are so unappreciated. They're mad smart.

I 300000% support Daruk being an unexpected board games FIEND and being able to absolutely trash all the other Champions.

[bigsoftmarshmallow]

Quick question: Do you think a kalasiris or a saree would fit more for a Gerudo wedding?

Kalasiri:

Saree:

Regardless of which, I plan to match it with a ghunghat. Basically, the head veil & forehead jewelry that Rhondson wears to her wedding. Just without the bauble thing on top of her head.

(I'm actually surprisingly pleased with Nintendo's choice to include that bit of Indian culture.)

This is mostly looking for your opinion, but I'm chill with the Dorfbots getting to ring in if ya want.

They are so pretty!!! Both are so gorgeous. Oh so pretty. <3

Kalasiri looks better (in my head) on the Gerudo... but the colors on the saree???? Like that is gorgeous. I'm very Biased cuz I fuckin love blue but ugghghhhhhh so pretty.

Ughhhh this is hard... So pretty... Both are so very pretty... Nghhhh wear both. One for the wedding and one for the reception. Done. Fixed. Definitely not a cop out.

************************************************************************

A kalasiris and a saree each bring their own distinct cultural significance and aesthetic, making them both compelling choices for a Gerudo or Demonic wedding. Here’s how each might fit and how the Ganondorfs and Demise might react:

Kalasiris:

Cultural Fit: The kalasiris, with its origins in ancient Egypt, features a close-fitting, ankle-length garment that drapes elegantly. The Gerudo, known for their desert culture, may find the kalasiris appealing due to its practicality and style in a hot climate. The simplicity and grace of the kalasiris could be seen as a symbol of strength and elegance, resonating with Gerudo values.

Reaction:

Ocarina of Time Ganondorf: He might appreciate the kalasiris for its historical connection to powerful desert civilizations, seeing it as a reflection of Gerudo pride and tradition.

Twilight Princess Ganondorf: He could value the austere and commanding presence the kalasiris brings, aligning with his own sense of authority and power.

Wind Waker Ganondorf: He might be less concerned with tradition but could appreciate the garment's elegance, seeing it as a subtle nod to the Gerudo's regal past.

Hyrule Warriors Ganondorf: He may see the kalasiris as a battle-ready garment, fitting for a union of warriors.

Tears of the Kingdom Ganondorf: Might view it as a blend of practicality and honor, respecting its historical roots.

Demise: The kalasiris, with its ancient connotations, might appeal to Demise’s sense of timeless power and dominance, especially if adorned with demonic symbols or modifications.

Saree:

Cultural Fit: The saree, a traditional garment from the Indian subcontinent, is a versatile and richly decorated piece that drapes elegantly over the body. Its flowing nature and the ability to incorporate intricate designs could symbolize both the Gerudo's and Demise's connection to the divine, the earth, and their fierce femininity.

Reaction:

Ocarina of Time Ganondorf: He might appreciate the saree's boldness and intricate beauty, viewing it as a statement of power and grace.

Twilight Princess Ganondorf: Could admire the saree's complexity and the way it commands attention, reflecting his own approach to power.

Wind Waker Ganondorf: Might find the saree's adaptability and vivid colors intriguing, seeing it as a reflection of his own multifaceted nature.

Hyrule Warriors Ganondorf: The saree's ability to blend tradition with striking visual impact could resonate with him, as it mirrors his own balance between warrior and ruler.

Tears of the Kingdom Ganondorf: He might respect the saree's deep cultural roots and its potential to tell a story through its patterns and draping.

Demise: The saree, with its flowing nature and potential for dramatic styling, might appeal to Demise’s preference for grandeur and symbolism, especially if tailored to reflect his demonic heritage.

Conclusion:

For a Gerudo Wedding: A kalasiris might be more fitting, especially in a desert environment, aligning with the Gerudo’s practical and proud nature.

For a Demonic Wedding: A saree might better suit the grandeur and dramatic flair associated with Demise, allowing for a more elaborate and symbolic expression.

The Ganondorfs and Demise would likely respect either choice, but their personal preferences would lean towards garments that align with their individual values and the symbolism they associate with the ceremony.

[skiddo-xy]

BoTW/TotK Hyrule Settlements - But With Mennonite Names

Today in Canada is the last day of Mennonite Heritage Week 2024 so I thought I'd bridge together a few of my interests together for this fun little project of mine!

Process (skip 2 paragraphs if you want to cut to the chase)

So basically, places (in the real world) settled by ethnic Russian Mennonites usually follow x rules in terms of naming. They: 1) have two components, where the second is almost always a geographical term, 2) have the first component of the names either an adjective, another geographical term or a personal name, and 3) are officially named in High German (AKA Standard German) and have a vernacular name in Plautdietsch (Mennonite Low German) which uses direct translation of the High German name. More on this, including the real-world cities I analyzed to come to this conclusion!

Disclaimer: the process of coming up with these involved visiting the location on my Switch, looking component candidates in my Plautdietsch-English-High German dictionary written by Jack Thiessen using his orthography system in the Bergthal dialect, after which I searched up the High German translation so apologies for any inconsitencies!

Without further ado, let's dive right in, formatted "[actual name]: [High German name] | [Plautdietsch name]!

1. Tarrey Town: Neuschlossstadt | Nieschlottstaudt

This one may be my most liberal interpretation of the city as it takes the name "New Castle Town," as this seems to be the most bustling city since the destruction of Hyrule Castle Town in the Calamity. This name is reminiscent of Neubergthal, Canada which was named after the Bergthal colony is present day Ukraine. This is basically the only exception to a Mennonite place name having more than 2 parts in it - when it is "new."

2. Kakariko Village: Gruenthal | Jreendohl

This one, meaning "green valley" is also a place in real life! The only difference is that the German ü is written without the umlaut in real life while my version adds the e after the umlautless vowel. This practice is also occasionally done in real life (such as the former village of Schoenfeld in the Russian Empire,) and I prefer it better. Also, my definition of "valley" here is a little shaky, but you can't deny that it is quite Green!

3. Gerudo Town: Sandfeld | Saundfeld

Geographically, one of the most defining features Gerudo Town is that it is located in a desert. However, I could not find any sources of Mennonites settling deserts (could not find enough information about the names of Mennonite settlements in Mexico) so I opted to use the extremely common "feld," meaning "field," and "sand"/"saund," meaning "sand," because that is basically what this kind of desert is.

4. Goron City: Heissberg | Heetboajch

This one means "hot mountain." The "berg" part is super common in real-world Mennonite place names, while the "heiss" part, less so as it is an adjective. Still could've been possible though! However, I sort of had the same issue naming this as I did with Gerudo Town, Mennonites did not settle volcanoes. I initially wanted to name it the equivalent of "Lavariver," but then I remembered that the Lava turned into hot spring water in TotK (?!) or something to do with "volcano," but the Plautdietsch word for "volcano" is the already lengthy and compounded "fieaspieenda boajch." So I settled for Heissberg.

5. Hateno Village: Weidethal | Weiddohl

Meaning: "pasture valley" - maybe this one is a little farfetched since you could argue for the little pastures being irrelevant/not pastures at all technically (admittedly did not think too hard about the definition of a pasture) but the "thal" (meaning "valley") component is super common!

6. Korok Forest: Waldheim | Woohldheim

Meaning: "forest home." Both are common components in place names, though I personally have never seen them together. There are many forests in Hyrule, though none are both a Forest and a settled home and thus the name was born!

7. Lurelin Village: Fischerdorf | Feschadarp

Kind of weird to use "dorf," which means "village" in a world where Ganondorf exists I know...but "Fischer" means "fisher" (don't any of you dare hit anyone with a "this post transcends language" real ones know what a cognate is) so I thought it could fit. I was also iffy about using the name of an occupation, but there are sometimes personal names used in place names (especially in former towns of Mennonite colonies in Ukraine) so maybe in another world, it could've happened.

8. Rito Village: Saeuleinsel | Stendainsel

Naming this one really threw me for a loop because it made me question..what the heck kind of landform is Rito Village? I later decided it was a "pillar island" though I have never seen either terms used in a place name so I suppose you could say I am the least proud of this one.

9. Zora's Domain: Zoraheim

This means "Zora home," which I basically decided was what they meant by naming the original Zora's Domain that in 1998. Technically this would be incorrect as "Zora" is not a proper German given name, but it will have to do. Again, this whole project is hypothetical...

And that's the end! I know the demographic that would probably enjoy this the most is incredibly niche but if you made it this far, great job! Here's another TotK screenshot from me as thanks 🫶💚

[askganon]

I've been giggling seeing all that recent stuff but I wanna just ask what is your favorite thing to drink, my lord?

Lon Lon milk is perfect for growing children, and for strengthening bones even for adults. The Noble Pursuit is and always has been favored among the Gerudo, especially in the hottest months. However, if you mean more alcoholic drinks, I prefer wine fermented from the wild honeys of the desert.

[tashacee]

So, I was just thinking about your masked wild fic (can't remember the actual name sorry) and I was wondering, are there changes to his outfits besides the headpieces turning into masks? Mainly more revealing/tighter ones like the Gerudo and climbing outfits, since you wrote that he wears loose clothing to hide the missing chunks

OOOOH YES

This turned out LONG so it's below the cut

Yes some of them are different. Let's see

Stealth Outfit: rather than being skintight, the people at Enchanted made him a custom hakama that he can move around in silently. His mask also covers his whole face.

Flamebreaker Set: no change, except he probably puts a mesh across the grille over the face

Zora Set: the mask covers his whole face but otherwise there's not much of a change. He has a lot of feelings about the armour Mipha made. It's sturdy enough that it makes it look like his body is the same shape it was before the calamity, but that's disconcerting for him and still feels pretty revealing. Sidon has since commissioned a long cloak/robe for him to wear over it, that helps, but it's still uncomfortable.

Snowquill Set: It's quite padded and puffy, so although it has that corsetted appearence at the waist, it really isn't much of a reflection of his body shape. Also he has a feather lined cape that comes down to his knees to keep him extra warm and also cover himself. Teba had it made for him and thinks it makes him look like a little chick.

Hylian Set: Basically the same, except he bought it deliberately a size too large. It's pretty loose and comfy, but when his scars are hurting it itches them too much to be comfortable and feels tight anyway.

Gerudo Set: He has a collection of GORGEOUS flowing abayas and several matching veils. A bit around his eyes are visible and sometimes the veil shifts a bit wider showing a few thick scars around his eyes and forehead, but the gerudo are super affirming about it.

Climbing Set: the trousers are ankle length, slightly looser. kinda like narrow gym pants. The vest has longer sleeves too.

Desert Voe Set: the same, except he wears it with boots and a loose shirt underneath

Soldiers Set: no change

Barbarian Set: no change, and he wishes he had the courage to wear it.

Rubber Set: no change and he will never wear it

Radient Set: no change and he has never worn it

Ancient Set: not much change; it's quite bulky and sturdy so it doesn't show much. it probably has a bit more structure around the waist

Dark Set: it's the same and is creepy. He hasn't worn it because he doesn't want to know what will happen if he puts the face on top of his own face. Kinda creepy.

Hero Of The Wild Set: the monks made it with all of Wild's preferences in mind. It's still tailored to fit him but sits loosely enough that he's comfortable even though it's not overly baggy. Instead of shorts he has long trousers and boots. There's a matching mask the colour of pine trees, decorated with delicate, barely visible designs of oak leaves and acorns around the edges. He left it with Zelda because it felt too precious to wear.

Royal Guard's Set: it's the same, and weirdly it's exactly his preferred cut. Unfortunately, it also freaks him out because that was HIM. IN THE BEFORE TIMES. So while he looks super dashing in it, he doesn't wear it.

BONUS

Champion's Tunic he wears this most of the time. It's pretty loose on him anyway and he doesn't wear a belt on it. He also wears a very loose shirt underneath

Lightning Helm he wears it over another mask

He does have it with him though 👀

Any other outfits? Either from the game or that you think he'd get? Let me know!

[giriduck]

Been processing the recent Nintendo Dream Web article some more. Hot takes under the cut.

Of course Ganondorf would be sexy—just about everyone on BotW and TotK is conventionally attractive. The stated sexiness goal for Ganondorf feels really bad though—not only only because he’s the villain / antagonist of the game who also an in-universe POC, which opens a whole can of worms around fetishization, racism etc. (that many others have written about far far better than I ever could)—but it’s also jarring to hear about a design goal of maximizing sexiness in a LoZ game at all. They literally said the quiet part out loud—and that feels so weird and gross.

Thought experiment: take the excerpt below, but imagine this was about BotW Zelda.

Doesn’t that feel odd framed in that way? An interpretation would be along the lines of, “As a real departure from prior titles, we gave Princess Zelda pants in this game! The pants of a person who really takes care with their appearance: tight-fitting, to show off her curves and figure, like a real princess, whom men and women could fall in love with!” Although they never said that, it has a ring of truth to it, given this new context.

Only Zelda in BotW got to be a character with enough screen time to have real depth, because it was a story that used her as a lens to understand both her life and the world, whereas Ganondorf in TotK was (once again) treated as a disappointingly generic villain. Ganondorf’s lack of narrative development was not only a miss with regard to him as a character, but as an opportunity for some interesting, central-to-the-story / universe, world building. Given this, the interview only makes it extra disappointing that a goal was to also make him appear heroic in his art design, but the final game (as far as I’ve played, anyway) never expanded on that very interesting concept beyond a quick line mentioned in passing.

Evil for the sake of evil and/or sexy for the sake of sexy ends up being disappointingly shallow and reductive. Add in the complexities of real-world racial inequality and trauma, and this can quickly become disrespectful to players. At the very least, if the game creators were inspired by or going to potentially code characters in a way that is evocative of cultures outside of Japan, please bring in a diverse focus group to look at the content and provide feedback. As a large and influential content creator, please do the work to catch (either conscious or unconscious) harmful and frustrating stereotypes before you commit them into your final product.

I actively avoided Breath of the Wild for five years because I was so irritated by the newer Gerudo character designs—specifically the nonsensical lack of clothes and the desert high heels. I was immediately put off by what felt like a fetishy objectification of “exotic” women.

So it is extremely irritating to realize that they consciously did the same thing with Ganondorf.

Personally, Ganondorf’s character design in all his appearances throughout the franchise has been interesting to me—particularly his clothing, jewelry, and everything mentioned in the interview that he presumably would choose to wear—because it’s precious little for us to work with with regard to building our versions of this character in our minds. Accessories and clothing are a window into a character’s preferences. But in my opinion, his art design is also the least of what makes him interesting as a character. Sure, we got glimpses of his pecs and biceps in TotK, but what about his motivation? Canonical insight for why he does the things he does? His perspective on the political / power dynamics of the ancient era? Unlike Zelda in BotW, we never “rode with Ganon” to understand this essential character to the game and franchise at all.

The biggest takeaway I am feeling from the interview is that I really wish that they had spent as much care giving him depth as they had done on his character design.

[amelias-zelda-calamity-quintet]

Geographic and cultural changes between the eras of GoS and MoaH might be interesting to know more about also

Geographic and Cultural Changes Since the Convergence w/ Princess Zelda (and Hart)

Zelda: "I think I can handle this broadly speaking. I'm sure we could get rather granular, so I will attempt to focus on the basics.

"Initially, as is often the case with the legends, after the successes of the Hero, Hyrule saw an era of restoration and a cultural resurgence of the aspects of chivalry in the traditional sense. The Royal Guard and the Hylian Knights saw serious review under the leadership of the Hero of the Convergence and the Princess of that era. That is a positive aftereffect of the cycle, it tends to inspire people to, well, live Heroically as it were.

"There was also a period in which we saw significantly better relations with our neighbors. After Hyrule was stable enough to maintain itself, the records indicate that the Hero traveled with one of their allies abroad to the other nations to improve relations. Which lasted, for several centuries even. But as legends do, the stories started to become that, stories. And it's hard to inspire someone with something that happened a thousand years ago.

"Presently, Hyrule is caught between a call to uphold tradition, as it's defined by a select few, and tension on its borders. All of which while monster activity has been getting worse. Unfortunately, some of that tradition has become...dogmatic. I would argue against the spirit of the tales but few would listen to me on that point, unfortunately. That's also why our, hm, performance was so easy to pass off to some. Many are more than willing to believe a solution to our problems would be so easy as a Hero rather than doing the work in need of being done to make things better."

Link: "You're really passionate about this, princess."

Zelda: "I would hope so. It's my duty to care about the kingdom. Circumstances otherwise, I would prefer to be taking a more direct approach than sneaking around trying to find answers. But here we are. As for geographic changes-"

Hart: "Oh! I can answer that! Only one here who remembers both."

Zelda: "What? Who are you? How did you get in here?"

Hart: "Don't worry about it, hun. Story's still young. Anyway! (Z: "I beg your pardon.") There are a number of major changes geographically, many of which are going to...hm, how do we say this around these two without breaking time again...(Z&L: "What?") Transition to a...wilder period. Still distant, distant business that. For now, Era of Prosperity, not yet advanced enough for all the big 'beasts' you're thinking of now.

"Specifically, since the Convergence, moving in a bit of a spiral here. Zora's River became less severe, so the canyon cut in that era became shallower. Explanation, magic to a lot of this. Don't think too hard on it. In any case, Castle Town now sits on the south side of Zora's River as a more expected riverbed level, and it now divides the castle off as a moat before its bit of an incline it sits on.

"More broadly, in the south, you start seeing the banks of Lake Hylia moving from its Era of Myth location in the southwest to due south of the Fields. This is because the marshes around Grimvale began to get a little more solid. The jungles in Teromac began to expand over the border. Right now it really only occupies the southern border there. But, you know. Eventually."

Zelda: "You talk as if you know what's going to happen in the future with a lot of confidence."

Hart: "Ah, you'd hope I would, wouldn't you? I am a fortune teller after all. I try to make a good performance."

Link: "Wait a minute."

Hart: "To the west, you'll see the border of the Gerudo Desert is a little, eh, shifted? The Scar still exists, but it is slowly getting filled in with time. Currently, it's the last outpost before heading into Rahaal. In the north, the Frostbite region would change to the Hebra region, after Hebra Peak. The Dreeka have also headed this way, their current temple at the edge of the Tabantha area. Bit of a canyon developing there. And to the northeast you have Akkal now Akkalan and will be, well, you know. These things take time. Kakariko Village is also beginning its journey south as the Sheikah go through a, hm, cultural shift with the Dreeka.

"A big one left is the Deku Forest. Until the jungles reach a little further, the Koroks are still in their more traditional southeast region off of Hyrule Field. Oh, and Zora's Domain moved back east, though the remnants of the city's waterfalls are still there from the Convergence, feeding Zora's River near Goron City."

Zelda: "That is all...incredibly accurate. How do you know all that? You said you were a fortune teller?"

Link: "You were in Lake Town! Who are you?"

Hart: "Ah, you're not ready for that one yet. Well, I should get going."

Link: "Wait, no- They're gone. How did they do that?"

Zelda: "Very Keaton energy that one. I need to talk to Impa about our security, she shouldn't have been able to get in."

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mark of a Hero (Updates on Tuesdays & Fridays, 1 of 9)

Hyrule is at peace, or so the Royal Family would have its people believe. Something is afoot in the kingdom, and someone needs to do something about it. Least likely would be Marksmen Link Sayre- a mercenary and monster hunter doing his best to get by. Until a job goes wrong, and he gets roped into the secret plans of Hyrule's princess. Now Link must play the part of the Hero to dive deeper into the mystery, and maybe stumble into a legend of his own.

AO3 - Wattpad

[asktheyigamaster]

Are your suits like - onsies? Two pieces? Do they not get super hot in the desert?

Ho ho, someone's asking the important qestions. Might as well brag a little. Not like any outside craftsman could use the information I'm about to disclose without direct Yiga help.

You are both slightly correct and entirely wrong. The Yiga are currently in the process of developing an, as you say, two peace plus mask version of the siut, that would be possible to put on and off, pants separately from the jacket.

However some pest had set us back on that front.

As it stands now the suit is a one peace garment, but it's more then a mere onesie. The cloth is sewn directly onto and around a Yiga Member, and cannot be removed without cutting it open. Thanks to that it feels as natural as skin, and more then not restricting wearer's movement, it makes it easier. Even a total amateur, not trained in the ways of the Yiga, will still benefit from the dexterity afforded by the mock-tenders within it.

A Yiga Suit is all purpose tool, made to serve faithfully no matter the conditions. And it does so spectacularly, all across Hyrule.

Thorough you are correct in your assumption that it is a hellish thing to wear under the blazing sun of a desert. Though I would still prefer it, with it's water retention and sunlight protection and the tight sealing preventing sand from getting everywhere, over surviving naked out here.

Besides, it's not like daylight is when the Yiga are out and about. The dead of night is a thief's best friend. And if you've ever been to the Gerudo Desert after sunset you would know that heat isn't that much of an issue then.

[ladyrijus]

If Malon is Gerudo (as noted by her father saying that the Gerudo Mask reminds him of her mother), then that would technically make Link in Twilight Princess Gerudo by default, since it is implied that he is a descendant of both her and the Hero of Time.

One might wonder, does that make him the Gerudo male born every 100 years? Sure, he could be, since Ganondorf's birth technically does not prevent other males from being born 100 years after him (we aren't told how much time has passed between Ganondorf's exile to the Twilight Realm and the beginning events of Twilight Princess).

Which is something I guess. Personally, I prefer to make him trans.

Anyways, not the point!

The point is, we know that the Gerudo no longer exist in the Gerudo Desert anymore. We don't know why exactly, though the environmental storytelling points towards genocide/exile. The only markers of their existence in history are the Arbiter's Grounds, the desert that bears their namesake, and Ganondorf himself.

Imagine what it must be like for Link, born with fiery hair and dark skin, dehumanized and treated as an unruly beast just as Ganondorf and the rest of the Gerudo were after entering the Twilight. lmagine him coming face to face with people like Telma and Shad, who share a knowing look at him that he can't seem to understand. Imagine him lingering over every Gibdo he kills, a strange sense of wrongness tugging at his heart as he makes his way through the Arbiter's Grounds.

And imagine what it must be like for Ganondorf, who has been sitting and waiting for Link and Midna. Imagine the surprise he feels, coming face to face with who could be the last warrior from his tribe. It almost slips through the cracks of his facade. Imagine how tragic it would be, that his ultimate downfall is not a sage's sword, not an archaic shadow relic, but a Gerudo boy hellbent on protecting his family.

Maybe that is the exact reason why Ganondorf dies. Not to the Master Sword, not to Zant. He dies with the knowledge that the last known members of the Gerudo are fighting for the wrong side, a kingdom that eradicated their people and is crumbling before their eyes, and even then, are still winning. That's defeat.

[axewchao]

Decided to turn a couple of my OCs into Zelda races!

Why? Because I know for a fact that I can't just draw Dal n' Rev all day. One day I'll branch out, and that means I need more practice with everything else Hyrule has to offer =w=

'Specially the Zoras. Those damn fish... head... tail... things =_="

I'll be sticking their mini-bios under a readmore :3

Makani

A Gerudo journeying across Hyrule. Blessed with fire magic, she left Gerudo Town to learn how to properly control said power, mainly via fighting as many monsters as she can. She hopes to one day return to the desert and challenge the legendary Molduking. Has an affinity for baking, and has considered establishing her own bakery somewhere pleasant and pretty.

While Makani has a number of goals on her mind, one she struggles with revolves around her eventually finding a voe. She doesn't want to just... have a kid for the sake of adding to the next generation, then waltz off to continue pursuing her own desires like her mother did. She wants to find a husband and start a loving family, but still has dreams, and only has so much time to do either. Subconsciously, she feels like she's being rushed to pick one thing and stick with it forever, which stresses her out.

Dusty

A Goron traveling with Makani. He considers Makani his sworn sister because of the matching heart-shaped marks (okay Dusty's is a rock) on their necks. Like his name implies, he's known for leaving large trails of dust clouds whenever he rolls around. He uses this to his advantage when fighting monsters; blocking their vision with dust, then striking from behind. He can also use the spikes on his back to scale up various walls.

Dusty is particularly fond of crashing into things. Monsters, large rocks, ore deposits, you name it, he'll crash it. Like most other Gorons, he doesn't like the taste of gems, but still collects them to make easy rupees. After hearing about the powers each gem can hold, he's kept one of each type for himself, as he's now debating over whether he should just attach them to his weapons and call it a day or keep more and have them converted into jewelry later. That "diamond circlet" thing sounds pretty badass, after all...

Tuno

A young Zora that was found washed up on the shores of Hateno Beach by Symin some time prior to the events of BotW. Rather than let the child swim back out to the unknowns of the sea, Tuno was instead brought to the Domain, where he was taken in by Laflat. Much like Link, Tuno never says a word, but can communicate with other Zoras by wiggling his fins.

Tuno has abilities similar to that of a puffer fish, in that he can puff up his tail and raise a set of spines to stab/scare any would-be assailants or threats. However, unlike puffer fish, he isn't poisonous in any way. He rarely puffs up, both because he's difficult to scare, and because it looks embarrassingly silly. The one thing that does scare him, however, is Octoroks. It's possible that some kind of Octorok had terrified Tuno in the past, maybe even drove him away from the sea entirely.

Tuna

A Hylian boy who lives at the Woodland Stable. He's Tuno's best friend, and the two are as close as siblings. Tuna often wonders if it's possible for a person to turn into a Zora, and likes to daydream about what his "Zora form" would look like. Prefers playing with the horses rather than actually tending to them, and is often begging his parents to let him start his riding lessons.

For reasons unknown, Tuna is prone to falling ill on the night of a blood moon, often left bedridden by sunset. He's become a sort of alarm at the stable because of this, where if anyone is wondering when a blood moon will rise, they just check on him. If he's feeling dizzy, that means one's coming. He'll recover the following morning without fail, but this doesn't stop his parents and fish bro from worrying about him.

[pocheezy]

More info on Noura, because up next we're going to go over the problem plaguing the Gerudo region. (Since I didn't specify what it was before)

Noura is a stubborn, obtuse, brutish, warrior. She prefers to use intimidation and strength to get her way in the battlefield, and in life. She is blunt to everyone, no matter their class or if they have nobility. She is proud of herself and her people. Encouraging the Gerudo to stand strong, even in the face of the evil plaguing the Gerudo desert. 

Noura isn't the smartest among the other companions, but she sure is the strongest and bravest. When she meets the other companions halfway through the game, she isn't impressed. They look like a ragtag team of misfits. How are we supposed to save Hyrule with a snooty fish, a lazy old Goron, a featherbrained Rito, and a puny little Deku scrub? Impa feels the same way about the group. But Noura quickly learns to trust Link, I guess they did help Link defeat the evil in each of their home regions. She still has her doubts, though.

Noura is the leader of the Gerudo. She spends her time protecting Gerudo Town, overseeing Gerudo affairs, caring for her daughters, and training. She loves to fight monsters, it really gets her frustrations out. She prefers to slash and crush. When the time comes, she can crush a monster's head with one hand. You'll never see it, but others will say she has.

The Gerudo of Gerudo Town respect Noura. They have their own opinions on her, but respect is at the forefront. The older Gerudo thinks she lacks elegance or dignity. The younger Gerudo are intimidated by her. The average Gerudo thinks she's doing a good job, albeit a bit aggressive.

Noura has two daughters. They're both preteens and twins. Noura is very protective of her daughters. She can be stern and disciplinary when needed, but mostly she is doting and loving to them. I don't have names for the twins yet, and I don't have an idea for their personalities at the moment. I just know that they play and fight like typical sisters. You can probably do a quest for them, but only if you don't have Noura following you (it's a secret!).

Noura is intimidating to most people and some monsters. She can scare low level bokoblins away. Funny since she has a pet bokoblin. After her daughters, her bokoblin is next in line to receive her caring, doting love. It loves cookies, so she pays whichever Gerudo baker is available to bake some for it. 

Noura is painfully aware of Prince Link's attraction to her. She's kinda intimidated by the fact someone genuinely finds her charming and potentially romantical. She acts as if she finds Prince Link's acts of flirtation annoying, but really she is flattered by it. She doesn't like to show affection (except when it comes to her children and pet). Although she tries to hide her feelings with aggression, you can still catch her blushing. During these slight moments, I imagine if you try to look at her face (through Link's perspective), she'll turn her face away. You can move the camera and look at her face for yourself.

When traveling with Noura, you'll grow closer. As long as you're traveling with a companion, you'll grow closer to them, which in turn will make them grow stronger in their skills and stats. You can even gift them a selection of decorative clothing and armor to wear. When they leave your side, they'll go back to their default clothing. If you want them by your side again, you can re-equip the clothes and armor you gave them. ANYWAY, when traveling with Noura, she can become homesick. In these moments, if talked to, she'll tell you that she misses her daughters. Although it hurts her to be away from her daughters for so long, she still wants to help you fight for the future of Hyrule and her daughters. These feelings can appear at random.