#i just want a space where i can enjoy MIPHA

[snail-studios]

I've gotten so burnt out with miphlink lately, it feels like everything I draw is for other people (only for it to get mostly ignored anyway) :/ I have so many miphlink aus that I love so much but I just feels like there's no audience and it's getting harder and harder to share my stuff and enjoy it o(︶︿︶)o

(I did recently think about a lifeguard x swim teacher au which I really like the idea of tho. But there's still a worry that I'll make link in a way people don't like and will get criticised which happens a lot in the main part of the miphlink fandom when someone disagrees with a big person in fandom.....)

[etherealperrie]

Peace

Link x Zelda | Zelink

Word Count: 1.7k

Contains: Link and Zelda being soft for one another | the "I would lay my life down for yours again & again if it meant being able to see you happy" kind of trope | excessive amounts of fluff | Link and Zelda being soulmates in every universe | Link and Zelda finally getting a peaceful, happy moment

Warnings: references to nudity, potential spoilers as the events of this fic take place after BOTW & TOTK

A/N: I've never written anything for this universe before, BUT, I've been playing copious amounts of botw & totk and have been thinking about these two a lot & how much I want them to be happy & be able to hold one another, so I wrote it! I hope someone out there enjoys <3

...

There’s something on Zelda’s mind. Her lip pulled taught between her teeth, that all too familiar crease between her brows ever present. Link knows that look all too well. A distant look in her eyes, as if she’s not really here in the garden of their Hateno Village home, but somewhere else entirely. 

Link knows not to question her, she comes to him when she’s ready, but he watches her intently. A habit he’s never really broken, whether he realizes it or not. His eyes are on her, watching as she breathes, letting her eyelids close, the summer evening breeze grazing her slightly sunburnt cheeks. Her hair dances with the wind and Link swears that for a moment, his heart skips a beat. He doesn’t bother to check, though, for he’s all too used to that feeling ever since it began when he first laid eyes on her over a century ago. 

Sometimes he wishes he could remember everything. Every look, every touch, every word they exchanged with one another. To forget even one is a shame. Perhaps this is why he refuses to take an eye off of her now. Every day, hour, minute, second, is a chance to make up for the gaps in his memory. To put her at the center of his world. It’s easy work for him. 

Zelda sighs and Link’s shoulders relax as she comes back down from wherever she’d gone. Sometimes she gets swept up into memories – some of them pleasant, others not so much. Link holds his breath for a minute more, waiting for her reaction.

She smiles and rises from where she sat beside the garden bed of carrots, closing the space between the two of them in a few steps. 

“Another dream?” Link asks, looking up at her. She leans into him, collapsing onto his lap, her arms wrapped around his shoulders. He welcomes her, wrapping his arms around her torso, pulling her into him. She’s soft and warm, a soothing smell of grass and soap enveloping his senses, reminding him that they’re both here. Human. Solid. Real. Alive. 

“Sometimes, when the wind blows over me like that, I can feel my mother’s touch.” Zelda hums, leaning her head against Link’s chest. At her words, he hugs her a bit tighter, wishing he could fill these empty parts of her. Zelda continues on. “Then, I think of Urbosa. I miss her.” 

“Me too,” Link agrees. He misses them all. Urbosa, Mipha, Revali, Daruk. Back when he and Zelda were no more than a Princess and a Knight. He doesn’t wish to return to those moments, per say, he’s happy to be here with Zelda having survived the Calamity and the Upheaval. Happy that she came back to him after the draconification, that he can touch her again. How lucky they are to be here with one another. Some days the survivors' guilt is harder to overcome than others. 

He wishes Zelda didn’t feel it, though. He wishes more than anything that he could absolve her of that guilt. Of every sadness. He’d bare it all himself, double, if it meant she would never have to feel it again. But here she is, reminiscing, sharing with him. Handling it with such grace, such beauty. She doesn’t know it, but her ability to carry on is what keeps him going, what inspires him to keep living despite it all. 

The sun is just beginning to set now, beginning its descent behind the trees as she readies to exchange posts with the moon. The wind picks up, blowing a cool breeze over the two of them. Link watches a chill spread across Zelda’s exposed shoulder, her lip quivering for a brief moment. 

For a moment he’s sucked into his mind, a memory washing over him. Zelda knelt in waist deep water praying to the Goddess Hylia – pleading, really – in hopes of discovering her power. He’d been ordered to stand and watch guard while she prayed, ensuring her safety. But, goddess, it took everything in his power to keep his back turned to her.

Link would never admit this to anyone, but that night he couldn’t turn a blind eye to the tremble in her voice. While she prayed, he turned over his shoulder to catch just a glimpse of her. Bathed in the glow of the moon, her porcelain skin reflecting the constellations above and the water below she looked, well, heavenly. More like a goddess than Hylia herself, Link had half a mind to fall on bended knee and worship Zelda. 

Underneath, though, he could see her shivering. Her teeth chattered as she begged with the Goddess to show her something, anything that could help in their battle against Calamity Ganon. Her fists clenched, her shoulders heaved as tears began to spill over and trail down her cheeks. Link wanted nothing more in that moment than to rush to her side, wipe the tears from her cheeks with the calloused pad of his thumb and pull her from the water. But he’d taken a vow of silence. A vow to protect the Princess. He couldn’t act on impulse, on desire.

Link lets out a quiet laugh now, running his thumb over Zelda’s exposed shoulder, hoping to warm away the chills. She tucks into him, exhaling a breath at his touch. Foolish, he thinks, to have ever thought that desire for the Princess would ever disappear – he’s destined to love her forever, in every lifetime, in every timeline. 

It’s a relief to be able to act on impulses now. To care for her in his own way, to warm her shivering body with his, to take her pain away. 

Zelda feels Link’s eyes on her and she wonders what he’s thinking. She wonders if he’s just as content as she is to sit here, in his lap, forever. She wouldn’t doubt it, sometimes it feels as though he’d sit with her all day, if she would let him. She often has to remind him that she’s okay. That she’s not going to go anywhere. Though, she often has to convince herself of that fact first. They’ve been through so much in the past century, the past handful of years since the Calamity and the Upheaval. So much loss, that some nights she clings to Link in her sleep to keep her tethered to this reality, to prevent fate from taking her away again. 

“I think we’ve done enough work for today,” Link says, moving one of his arms and sliding it under Zelda’s knees, lifting her into a bridal carry in one swift motion. Zelda gasps, tightening her grip as if she’s ever once had to worry she isn’t safe in his arms. She’s never felt more safe in her life, and that’s not an easy thing for the Princess to feel. Even if, goddess forbid, something were to tear them apart again, she knows that somehow Link will return to her. 

The next few minutes between the Princess and the Knight happen in total silence and almost without thought. All Link knows is that he wants to make Zelda comfortable. So, a bath is drawn. 

Steam rises from the tub as Zelda sinks into the water, the chill of the evening leaving her body. She tips her head back, the ends of her hair skimming the surface, as she rests her head against the wall, turning at the sound of footsteps approaching. 

Link slips into the washroom, his eyes glinting at the sight of her – two lush green eyes set in a hazy glow of peach and pink. He smiles, elated to see her so relaxed, even more so to see her smiling back at him. 

“Might I join you?” he asks, already slipping out of his tunic.

Zelda hums in encouragement, watching as Link lifts his tunic over his head. She watches with wide eyes, as if she’d never seen him like this before. Perhaps it’s because she doesn’t remember much of anything from her time in the skies, that she would be remiss to not take every moment with her knight as something precious. 

She drinks in the sight of his muscled back, tan, naked skin marked with blotches of color – some yellow, others purple – bruises, from his endless battles. In the next second, he’s fully exposed and her eyes are mapping every freckle and scar, each with its own memory. 

Soon, Link is standing just above her as she shimmies back, spreading her legs to make ample room for him to rest. It’s not often that she gets to hold him, so when his back is pressed against her front seconds later, his head resting against her chest, those crystalline blue eyes looking up at her from below, she feels as though her heart might beat through her chest. She’s certain he can feel it. 

He can. And, goddess, what a sensation. The moment his bare skin comes into contact with hers, Zelda’s fingertips skimming up the length of his body from his hip, across his torso, and up his neck stopping to circle each mark, he is reborn. 

Zelda asks about each one, tracing her fingers across Link’s skin again and again, desperate to know the story that led to every blemish. Link entertains her, his eyes falling shut as he recalls spats and battles, some she was present for and others not. He surprises himself with a few stories. He was certain he’d forgotten some, but with her hands on him, he recalls them with ease. Zelda smiles as she listens to him, the cushion of his body beneath her hand. She stifles a laugh when she notices a trail of chills following in her wake as her hand wanders Link’s body. It’s sweet to know the effect she has on him, she’ll never tell him that she knows, so she revels in the discovery while his eyes are closed. 

They carry on until the water is tepid, their bodies having absorbed the heat of the liquid and of one another. They wrap in towels, drying their skin, unraveling from one another for just that moment before tumbling into their shared bed, naked skin to naked skin. 

Peace is something the two of them are just beginning to know. Perhaps peace, the gentle feeling of loving one another, is the very thing they’ll cling to.

...

[avenin7]

Stupid mod au questions to answer at your convenience - road trip edition.

*Which characters can/will drive?

*Who chooses the music and what are they playing?

*Who inhales car snacks the whole jorney and who gets super car sick?

*Who is antisocial and wears their headphones the entire time and who talks nonstop and tries to get everyone to play games?

*Who has a steel bladder for like nine hours and who shamelessly pees in a bottle?

*Who takes the night shift driving?

*Who demands they stop at McDonald's and what is everyone getting?

*Who conks out and sleeps the whole jorney? Who takes gratuitous photos of them to upload to Instagram?

*Who gets unbearably cranky being in a small space with other people for too long and ends up in a fight?

*Finally; which song comes on the radio that causes them all to have to sing along?

Hii! Thank you for the ask! I wanted to do some art to go along with it it but I am burnt out haha. I've actually thought about this a lot actually!!

As much as Daruk would want everyone to carpool in his van, nobody trusts that shitbox to not explode within 60miles, so they take Link's subaru. Drivers would be all of them but location decided who's driving where. Revali, Urbosa, Mipha, Daruk can all navigate in cities pretty well (Daruk REQUIRES directions or else he will pick a direction and just drive endlessly). Link and Zelda do better with highway driving. They don't like last minute changes or not knowing where they're going, so being on the highway and cruising is preferable. (Link has really really good navigation, he just gets overwhelmed easily).

I would say they are probably listening to Urbosa's music the most. Second is probably Daruk. They both lean towards r&b music and pure chill vibes which is good for driving. (NOT Mipha's Rob Zombie or Link's Skrillex). They play that stuff when they're trying to stay awake at 2 am

Daruk & Link are the car snack demolishers but also surprisingly Revali as well. He mindlessly eats to keep himself engaged while driving (especially if nobody is actively talking to him). The rest of the group is eating junk but Revali & Urbosa are snacking on roasted cashews and spicy pickles like the freaks they are. And also speaking of food. When on road trips dietary restrictions kind of go out the window for sake of convenience. So nobody is really worried about "oh McDonald's is unhealthy" because theyre most just wanting easy calories for cheap. They usually just get a massive order of like 40 chicken nuggets and several large fries and plain burgers to share. If anyone wants anything specific they order it for themselves. (The amount of sauce packets lost in Link's car is unreal)

I think they'd all go in shifts of being antisocial and overstimulated. Having to take frequent breaks to stretch and get away from each other. But Link probably wears his ear defenders the most when he's not driving. Mostly cause even if everyone is quiet there's still going to be noise. So surprisingly he gets the most bickery and angry with people. Snappish. Revali or Mipha would probably try and get people to talk the most. Revali because he gets really bad highway hypnosis and so talking helps him. Mipha because she just loves making up games. Also she and Link are the ones to yell "cows!" every time they see them outside. (while Link reverently murmurs "horses" whenever he sees a horse)

Revali and Urbosa share nightshift driving duties. They both have the best eyesight and enjoy the quiet. Mipha also does too and her & Revali have had some really good heart-to-hearts while everyone has been asleep.

Link I think would want to conk out but can't, so Daruk does. He would be out and snoring the entire drive. 16 hours. He doesn't give a fuck. I think Zelda or Mipha would be the instagram photo girlies. Wanting to capture the moments (especially Mipha, she has a passion for photography). Revali only takes cringefail photos of everyone for blackmail xD

any song by Shania Twain or Lincoln Park is screamed at top volume. Also Eminem, 50 Cent, Sean Paul, Post Malone. Nobody is a Swiftie but if somebody had to be, it would be Revali 100%. (I have other songs and artist but I can't think of any right now TAT I do have a playlist of au music)

Don't Stop Believing by Journey is another song everyone screams and Bohemian Rhapsody. Pink Floyd is a particular favorite of Daruk, Link, Urbosa

Oh! I forgot! Link and Zelda can hold their bladders the longest. Daruk/Revali are both peeing in bottles without a care. Urbosa would but she doesn't have a device to help. Mipha thinks they're all gross and unhealthy in their bladder habits.

[brendathedoodler]

I love how the AS!colors take the roles of the deceased champions. They would totally rock with those funky large Sheikah pets. Speaking of champions....care to elaborate on Loft's bunch?

Admittedly the Skyloft champions are among the less developed concepts I have so far, but I’m happy to share what I do have and the ideas I’ve got so far!

Before I continue though, it’s good to know that all the champions (with the exception of the Gorons) are humans on Skyloft.

Let’s start with Revali, a key element in the story. Revali takes on a sort of Groose-like role, and though he was never particularly friendly with Wild, the two had been close before. Well, close for them, as two very closed off and competitive guys. They were rivals and always used the other as a way to try and improve themselves. Wild had generally been the better swordsman, while Revali was the superior flier. Both were close in skill, and always eager to one up the other.

Then Wild returned from his fall and took Revali’s worry as hostility. Before, Wild had been excellent at reading him, but now there was just… Nothing. No recognition, none of the same competition they’d had before. It’s all gone. Wild is a stranger in his friend’s skin, and Revali would be lying if he said he didn’t resent him for it. That resentment doesn’t stop him from diving to the surface after Wild, though, and it doesn’t stop him from doing what he can to help. This is his world too, and he’ll be damned if he just stands idly by and lets some amnesiac dumbass do it all on his own.

Mipha is another key player. She’s Skyloft’s main doctor and healer, and everyone firmly believes that the goddess blessed her with healing magic. She and Wild had been close before he fell, though they’d never had anything official. She does her best to help Wild in his recovery, though she doesn’t believe he’ll get any memories back. If he does, it probably won’t be much. She understands that they won’t ever have what they had before, and of course grieves that, but she also wants to do what she can to help him. She’s the person Wild goes to if he wants to connect with the past he doesn’t remember. He goes to her for questions, because he trusts her to answer honestly. Besides, he does enjoy her company, he just tries to give her space because he’s sure it’s hard for her. Her and Sidon’s home is always open for him to stay at.

When Wild first arrived back on Skyloft, he stayed at their home. He planned to sneak out in the night, but Sidon caught him and convinced him to at least stay the night. Mipha realized then that no matter how much she wanted to keep him here where she could keep him safe and healed during his recovery, he’d try to escape anyway. She decided then that she wouldn’t try to make him stay, and just hoped that he’d come to trust her enough to come to her when needed (and he does).

Sidon is an entirely different matter. He knew Wild more as the guy his sister liked, but the two didn’t really cross paths all that often before (though did casually know each other, since Skyloft is a rather small place). Wild has begun to befriend him now, since Sidon doesn’t have the same sort of expectations others have since he didn’t know Wild all that well before. Nowadays he’s Wild’s hype man; he’ll cheer him on for a cool dive he did, a cool monster he killed, or for slaying a literal god. Actually, he refers to Wild as “the godslayer” quite often, and it’s one of the first things the chain hears from someone when they arrive at Skyloft. Needless to say, it sparks a lot of questions towards Wild and he answers none of them (at first; he admits some of it eventually but in the moment he’s more concerned with visiting his friends who are probably worried about him disappearing again).

Daruk is actually just vibing on the surface with other gorons. He meets Wild pretty early on, back before he visited Skyloft for the first time post-amnesia. He was covered in mud, walking on all fours, and being followed by a strange ghost-like woman and a giant bird. Wild didn’t speak to him (he hadn’t yet found his voice), but seemed content to listen to what he was saying. Daruk gave him some advice, pointed out some fruits that he’d seen other organic creatures eat (since he seemed hungry), and told him stories about places he’d been.

Later on, Daruk met Wild again. He was cleaner now, had started speaking, and was well into his recovery by then. He explained his situation with the memory loss over a rock roast (Fi sat back disapprovingly but couldn’t stop him from munching away). Daruk, being a comforting dad figure, listened intently and did his best to cheer Wild up after that conversation. It helps that Daruk is a friend who had never known Wild at all before the memory loss, and someone who didn’t understand humans like him well enough to really see how different Wild is from the rest of them. It’s a nice change of pace.

Urbosa’s role isn’t quite solid yet, but the idea I have for her is that she heads to the surface sometime after Wild does and ends up traveling with Flora and Impa in their quest, acting as another guardian and protector of her (as well as a motherly figure). Impa (based more on SS Impa than BotW Impa) and Urbosa do not get along at first. Impa thinks Urbosa is getting in the way of her duty and pointlessly interrupting, while Urbosa respects Impa for protecting Flora but isn’t thrilled that she’s sticking around now that she’s here to help. They eventually become good buddies, though, and even after it all goes down, Urbosa spends time with Impa’s elderly self in the temple.

I’m not entirely sure what to do with Riju yet, but I have a few concepts. I do think that her family will eventually become the gerudo, and currently are known for only having daughters. She and Sidon both go on a quest with Wild on the surface, but I haven’t figured out what those quests are specifically. Anyway, she’s got a lot of pressure from her family and her quest with Wild is a break from that, but also accomplishes something that she believes will make them proud. That’s why she goes on the mission in the first place, but by the end of it she’s more focused on enjoying her time with Wild and exploring the surface. (She does make her family proud though, and when Urbosa hears about what she’d accomplish, she’d insist that she was always proud of her).

[hoodie-prince-kid]

A little drabble about Versii trying to help Riju step out of her comfort zone sometime during the events of Age of Calamity. Enjoy :)

Riju was sitting alone on the steps of the Great Ton Pu Inn, turning things over in her head.

"Vasaaq, Riju!" came the chipper voice of Versii.

Startled, the young Gerudo quite literally threw the little bean bag plush of a sand seal she was holding. Versii shifted into breeze form and caught it before it hit the ground, jogging back over to Riju to return it. "Sorry for startling you, but don't take it out on the poor seal!" The green-haired child grinned as they plopped the plush back into the hands of its owner.

"It's alright," Riju said quietly. "Vasaaq to you as well, Versii. Do you need something?"

Versii shook its head. "Just wanted to say hi, see what you were up to. You looked lonely," he admitted, a bit sheepish- or maybe that was Riju's imagination.

"Not lonely, just thinking." She nodded toward the distance, where a few of the other warriors were talking, including champions Urbosa and Mipha. "You champions are so powerful. It's an honor to witness you all in battle first-hand."

Versii sat down next Riju, a few steps lower, and inspected her quietly. "That crown looks heavy," lea said, sort of out of the blue.

Riju huffed. "Were you even listening?" she smiled, knowing Versii was spontaneous at times, only to be surprised when it nodded at her.

"Course I was! I meant it in more ways than one. How often do you let yourself just play and have fun? Y'know, be a kid?" Versii leaned back on their elbows awaiting an answer.

Taken by surprise, Riju blinked a few times. "I… don't really have the time, to be honest," she admitted. "Running the town is tough, even with the help of Buliara."

"The time or the willingness? Anxiety can make you think you don't have time for fun, when in reality you're too afraid to be open and express yourself, and so your mind fills in the space." Lea turned leaves head up to the sky, leaving Riju to stare in shock. She'd spoken to Versii for less than ten minutes, and already she was being read like a book.

"…what makes you say that?" she finally asked, unsure how else to respond.

Versii smiled lightly. "When you're the only one like yourself for 200 years, you experience a lot."

"200 years?!" Riju returned, confused. She thought only the Zora lived that long, and Versii couldn't at all be much older than her.

The child burst into laughter. "Sorry- sorry, I forget that-" it took a moment to quit laughing. "I forget not everyone knows what a Kokiri is," lea stated. "Yeah, I'm almost 211 years old. I'm a Kokiri, a forest spirit that doesn't age."

"You're older than Princess Mipha!" Riju exclaimed.

They nodded. "Zora have lifespans, just like Hylians and Gerudo. Kokiri are… different. But that's a tangent for another time. Wanna pull a prank with me?"

Riju stared for another minute. "A… a prank?"

"Yeah!" Versii stood up. "I've been pranking all the warriors one at a time. Daruk's next and I need an accomplice. You in?"

She considered this for a moment, and remembered a few days earlier in the village when she'd found Patricia dressed in party streamers. "That was you?"

He snickered. "Yeah. Patricia looked cute though, didn't she?"

Riju laughed quietly and nodded. "I had no idea it was a champion who did that. I thought it might have just been one of the children from Hateno."

"Yup, it was me! Daruk sometimes calls me the Prank Prince," lea bragged. "And I wanna remind him why."

"But… I don't know how to pull pranks," said Riju. "I've never really tried it. I don't think it's-"

"Proper? Forget about proper. Have you listened to Revali talking to Link? Is anything about him proper?" Versii pointed out, which made Riju cover her mouth and laugh. "My point exactly. Just because you have a big title doesn't mean you can't have fun. And pranks are far better than bragging, because you can get someone else to laugh too. If you do it right, I mean."

"I guess that makes sense. But I still don't know how to prank people," she repeated.

"Just follow my lead! Anyone can learn. Even a grump like Niki. She helped me prank Kohga, it was awesome," Versii recalled. "So whaddya say? It'll be fun, I promise."

"Hm… on one condition," she replied after a moment.

"Name it."

"If something goes wrong, I wasn't involved." She held her arms and pouted, a bit nervous.

Versii smiled warmly, and held up its right hand. "I hereby solemnly swear that should anything bad happen, Lady Riju is not liable and I, Champion Versii, shall accept any and all blame." They put their hand down. "But really, you have nothing to worry about. Daruk's a great prank target, I've never seen him get upset about anything like that."

Riju smiled weakly. "If you insist."

Step one was to infiltrate Director Purah's lab for materials. It was actually a lot less nerve-wracking that it appeared, Riju found. It would be her job to distract Purah while Versii snuck around and collected anything that looked like scraps. Lea hadn't explained why the metal was required, since the whole operation was kind of rushed, but after Versii gave Riju the signal, they both left the lab and escaped into the stable down the hill. Versii set down the box of items he'd found, which made Riju wonder how lea'd carried it. "Check it, it's a bunch of mock ancient material for repairing the Guardians." It picked up a piece of metal and bent it without much force. "Easy to bend and keep in shape."

"What'll we do with it?" Riju asked, growing a bit concerned when Versii grinned.

"Fake rock roast."

The next morning at the inn, Versii had woken Riju early in order to swap out the real rock roast with the fake one. Riju thought it hardly looked realistic, but Versii explained that was the joke. The point was to invoke a reaction, not completely trick Daruk into eating metal- even though that would also be kinda funny, lea'd realized immediately after.

At any rate, Riju was nervous yet oddly excited as she hid with Versii behind the counter in the dining hall, where the trap was set up. Versii shushed her- an unnecessary move, but she chalked it up to him being excited- as Daruk swung the door open and sauntered into the room with a big stretch. He sat right down at the table, not even bothering to inspect the roast, picking it up and biting down with an uncomfortable clanging sound. Versii and Riju both winced.

"Huh. It's tougher 'n usual," Daruk mumbled, with a yawn. "Oh well. Must have lotsa iron." And then he took another bite, this time tearing right into it. The kids stared in awe as the Goron ate the entire hunk of metal they'd served him. Versii could hardly contain leafself by the time he'd finished. Riju was mostly concerned, but also quite surprised.

Once Daruk left the dining hall, Versii rolled right over with laughter. "He said- he said- must have lotsa iron! BAHAHAHAHAHA-"

Versii's laugh was so contagious that Riju found herself laughing, too. "I can't believe he didn't notice."

"Right?!" Versii returned. "I can't wait to tell him!" More laughter. "He'll be so confused!"

Tell him? Oh dear. "Um… do you think he'll be mad?" Riju asked, no longer laughing.

"He won't, I know it," Versii reassured her. "The only times I ever see Daruk get angry are when innocent people are in danger or when someone talks down about themselves. But, if it makes you feel any better, I'll tell him it was just me."

"Are you sure?" she asked. She didn't want Versii to get into any trouble or anything.

"Totally sure. Just watch, you'll see what I mean."

Later on, Riju was feeding Patricia when she heard Daruk's voice from somewhere nearby. She turned and saw that he was talking to Link and the princess, and as if on cue, Versii came rushing up them in breeze form. She set down the rest of the fruit and wandered closer to overhear the conversation as subtly as she could.

"Heyyy, there's the little sapling! We were just talking about ya, you been busy all day, eh?" Daruk said, ruffling Versii's hair.

Versii giggled. "Yeah, busy playin' hide 'n seek! All good things, I hope!"

"There's only good things to say!" the Goron replied.

"Awww, shucks. Oh, I wanted to ask, how was breakfast?" lea asked. Riju scooted closer in her hiding spot.

"It was really weird, now that ya mention it," Daruk said. "I dunno if it's the rocks around here, but it felt like I was eatin' metal. Tasted a bit funny, but it still got me goin'." 

Riju felt like she was about to burst with both laughter and slight guilt. He was so clueless! She knew Gorons weren't renowned for their intelligence, but this was ridiculous.

Versii also could hardly keep its composure. They cracked a grin and said, "You could say it was locally sourced."

Daruk lifted an eyebrow. "What're you on about? Did you do somethin' to my rock roast this morning?"

Versii pursed lea's lips in a smile. "Maybe."

Daruk grinned. "What'd you do, ya little scoundrel?"

"I'll tell you if you catch me!" And with a poof, Versii shifted to breeze form and dashed off, Daruk jogging in pursuit. Riju followed immediately after, noticing that Link and the princess didn't follow.

There was a race down the hill, and Versii was cornered at the lakeside. Riju hid behind the tree nearby.

"I gotcha! Now confess to your sins, sapling! Daruk joked.

"Yeahhh, you got me. I pulled the ol switcheroo!" And from there, Versii explained the story, omitting details about Riju just as promised. She began to feel bad, until the end of the story, when Daruk burst into uproarious laughter.

"You're real clever, kid, y'know that?" Riju popped her head out from behind the tree to see Daruk patting Versii on the back. When their eyes met, she nodded at it.

"Well, it wasn't all me. I had a little help," Versii smiled.

Riju quietly stepped out from behind the tree. "Sav'otta," she greeted quietly.

"Little sandstone? I didn't know you had it in ya! C'mon over, don't be shy," said Daruk.

Riju obliged. "I hope you're not upset. Versii made it sound fun, so…"

"D'aww, I couldn't be upset over a little prank!" Daruk replied. "Actually, I'm kinda proud. It's nice to see you steppin' outta your comfort zone."

"Really?" Riju asked, quite surprised, but honored to hear this.

"Absolutely!" Daruk smiled.

"Hey, Riju, do you wanna help me prank Urbosa next? I've got a pretty… explosive idea," Versii smirked.

"No real explosions, right?" Riju inquired quickly.

Versii laughed. "None at all!"

Daruk looked over at Purah's lab atop the hill. "Hey, it looks like Purah wants us to re- ran- she wants us to meet up, I think."

"On my wa-" but just before Versii could shift, Daruk scooped up both children onto his shoulders.

Riju was caught off guard and held on tightly. "Don't worry sandstone, I gotcha," the Goron reassured her.

Versii only laughed with excitement. "Off we go!" lea shouted, pointing ahead triumphantly.

Riju smiled and laughed a little, adjusting herself to sit comfortably on Daruk's shoulder. Sure this wasn't the fastest method of travel, but she knew for certain that she had time.

She had all the time in the world.

[ashenpages]

Current Projects & Emoji Voting Key

Quick disclaimer: I’m a romance writer in all aspects of the term, so most of my works will contain mature content. Engage at your own risk, you know the rules, you’re responsible for curating your own experience of the internet, blah blah blah.

This post serves as a current mock up of fic ideas I’m either actively working on or considering working on next. You can drop me an ask about any of them, or just vote via the emoji combo I’ve assigned them.

Voting lets me know you’re excited about an idea and makes it more likely I’ll actually work on it. You can vote anytime, there’re no deadlines or winner announcements, just me gauging your interest by what I see in my ask box most often.

You can also ask me about the original stuff I’m working on currently. The current WIPs are Medusa centric and the emoji for them is: 🐍

Support my original work on Ko-fi and Patreon.

- Lupin: 🤑🤠💍  These are all oneshot ideas, between 5-15K each. If you want to vote for a specific idea, send me the emojis and the number of the idea.

Born from the idea that Goemon and Zenigata probably couldn’t be an item, my brain decided to come up with how I could write for them. Goemon’s teaching an ikebana class as part of his training, and Zenigata shows up as a student on forced recreational leave for his health from the ICPO. Zenigata wins the samurai’s heart through flowers. But what happens when Lupin and Jigen find out? (Only good sexy things, I promise. These beans are in a healthy polycule--be gay, do crimes) (WIP)

Jigen/Lupin, but it's Jigen deciding to seduce Lupin while wearing his own Lupin disguise. The thief is waaaaay too into it, and some artistry is taken with the sex so that they don't mess up the disguise too much during their encoutner.

Jigen/Zenigata/Lupin where Jigen has some fantasices about Zenigata, but is pretty sure they'll never happen. Tells Lupin about them. Suddenly the fantasies are coming true, in the middle of a heist, and Jigen doesn't what to do except get swept up in the moment and enjoy. Plot twist, it's Lupin dressed up as Zenigata granting all his gunman's dreams. Plot twist again, Zenigata catches them at it.

Zenigata/Lupin, where Lupin keeps doing good things in illegal ways and Pops has to find a way to punish him for it. Good thing for Pops Lupin's a masochist?

Trans!Lupin and Trans!Jigen premise: Jigen cares for Lupin after the master thief has top surgery, since Jigen has Been There and Done That. Caring, sweet, and a little sexy. Lupin is a much better patient than Jigen.

The one time Zenigata caught Lupin in an alley and kissed him and it was Jigen in disguise. Things get sexy anyway, and Zenigata has crushes on two thieves now. Lupin and Jigen "kidnap" him later for an evening of taking care of their inspector.

The background plot of Jigen's Gravestone where we see Jigen think he's done for and try to leave Lupin. Our thief has none of it, and we get to relish in the inherent eroticism of Lupin sitting in sniper fire, knowing Jigen's got his back. This is the moment I think Jigen finally believes he can be with Lupin forever.

I love the idea of something longer and more plot driven like a Lupin special where Lupin ends up in hot water and Jigen and Fujiko have to work together to save him. Jigen and Fujiko have such an interesting relationship. They're both partners of Lupin, they don't really like each other, they constantly screw the other over, but when it really matters they take care of each other. I'd like to see that highlighted a little more and also give them space to call each other out and bicker. Nothing sexy between them, but maybe a really interesting threesome with Lupin and Fujiko in a strap on once they save their boy.

- Sonic Vampire Novelist Coffee Shop AU: 📚☕💐

Shadow is an immortal vampire who has seen the world change for the worse too many times. These days it feels like he only lives for his coffee dates with Rouge, another immortal who loves each new era they encounter, warts and all. He has to admit that the book series she got him into speaks to him, at least. If someone in this era can understand him without meeting him, it can’t all be bad. But he hardly expected the goofy blue barista at the new coffee place to understand him the way those books do.

This is a novel length romcom romp with some big feelings about what it means to watch as things change, grow, and die. Expect lots of Big gothic feelings from this one, emotionally charged kissing, and overly-adoring sex. But also expect shenanigans from everyone in the coffee shop, which include Rouge, Amy, Tails, Knuckles, Cream, and more.

- Sonic Blazamy, "Like the Sun": 💖🌸💎

Amy Rose has been in love with Sonic for a while.

Or has she?

When the Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, Shadow, and Silver are trapped as the fuel sources for Doctor Eggman’s newest evil scheme, Amy teams up with Blaze, Rouge, and Cream to save them. With Sonic out of the picture and Amy fulfilling his role, was she ever really in love with him? Or did she just want to be like him?

This is a novel length epic romance with lots of competent women and lots of romantic Blazamy content. Expect flowery hopes and dreams, badass self-actualization, and glancing hand touches that give way to cuddly and sweet sex.

- Persona 5: 🗡🍛☕

After bringing down the Metaverse twice, Ryuji didn’t think graduating high school and figuring out what to do with his life would be so hard. Akira’s back in town, and the gang’s more-or-less all in Tokyo, but everyone else seems to have a plan while Ryuji just floats. How’s he supposed to change the world when he’s not a phantom thief anymore?

This is a novel length fic that addresses how powerless one can feel being just one person in the face of all the corrupted systems and bigotry the world has to offer. It’s about holding on to what you believe in, working through the doubt, and fighting your way to a better tomorrow with the power you do have. The whole gang is queer, featured relationships being Mako x Ann, Ryuji x Akira, Futaba & Yusuke as platonic life partners. Akira is polyamorous and omnisexual, Futaba’s asexual and aromantic while Yusuke is demisexual and very romantic, Makoto’s a lesbian, Ann and Ryuji are bi, and Haru’s pansexual, demisexual, and aromantic. They’re one giant band of queer Phantom Thieves, and even if they’re not really doing the Metaverse thing anymore, they’re still gonna save the world!

Also, I’m gonna make Makoto not a cop. That super didn’t age well. Zenkichi and his boss can work on making them better/abolishing them for other better organizations.

- Hades Game: ❤️‍🔥💀

Oneshot. I just really need to elaborate on the threesome you can have with them in-game, okay? Healthy and canon poly relationships are so few and far between, so often I have to do a ton of groundwork to explain why it’s working in the fic, but NOT WITH THESE KIDS!

Get ready for Meg helping Zag and Than be better at expressing their feelings, lots of kissing, and probably pegging.

- Castlevania Animation Trevor/Sypha/Alucard: 🧛🏰🛌

Castlevania gave Alucard a threesome last season, and I just really need S4 to give me him being taken care of by his partners. They’re probably not going to give it to me, so I’ll need to do it myself. This is just an everybody loves Alucard oneshot, with the gang’s signature banter (to an extent), Sypha being sexy, and Trever being remarkably sincere. This fic is gonna feel like that Ann Hathaway picture with Trevor kissing Alucard and Sypha holding the end of Trevor’s whip while she leans her head on Alucard’s shoulder adoringly.

- Devil May Cry Nico/Lady/Trish: 💋✨😈

Nico’s gay, okay? Like really, really gay. And Lady’s bi and not into men who make her pay bills, but very into women who make amazing guns for her and demonesses with hearts who fight by her side. Trish is ace, but loves people and is pretty attached to Lady at this point. Plus it’s cute when Lady blushes and says nice things like they’re insults. I don’t have super solid ideas for them yet, and I envision these more like a polycule where Lady’s with Nico and with Trish but they’re not with each other more than seeing it as a threesome, but who knows what might happen. This is probably 1-2 oneshots depending on ideas, but might turn into a series of oneshots if people are interested (or I can’t control myself and inspiration strikes).

- Post FMA:B Blind Roy & No Alchemy Ed: 👀👑🙏

This is actually an old novel-length fic I wrote ages ago and didn’t post that didn’t turn out well because I was new to writing sex when I first wrote it. The plot is good, and is all about Roy learning to work with his blindness to reclaim his ambition of being Fuhrer and changing the system to something that actually cares for its people. He and Ed reconnect, fall into bed, and both set about working through their respective traumas about being “useless” having lost their sight/alchemy. They go to Xing as an ambassadorial party to offer Amestris’s collaboration on Al and May’s Alkahestry experiments--and uncover a plot that might threaten both kingdoms.

- Age of Calamity continuity Mipha x Revali: 🦚🐟💘

The first time Revali noticed Mipha, it was in the heat of battle. She stole his mark, taking them down with a flurry of quick blows from her spear. Violence rained from her like water--and then she healed him on her way to her next battle. No questions, no conditions, just pure kindness. The usual need to measure himself against those around him was quiet in her wake. And Revali couldn’t understand it. But how to get to know more about her? A fish and bird may fall in love, but where would they live?

This fic could be a oneshot or novel length depending on how far down the hole I fall. I need it to cover time, but it could be done in linked vignettes or with actually covering events in detail. I may elect to do a oneshot just to get it done and out of my system faster. So much fic to write, so little time.

Expect trans!Revali, polyamorous Zoras, scary competent Mipha, songbird Revali, love confessions that are made up entirely of berating Link for not loving Mipha the way she wants him to, and breaking these characters a little outside of their assigned roles in BotW and Age of Calamity. Background Link x Zelda, and Urbosa x Zelda’s Mom.

- Epic desert romance about Urbosa and Zelda’s mom: 🏜🏝⚡

I just think Urbosa should kiss women and Zelda’s mom should get more development and maybe a name or something. Also, lightning imagery/metaphors/play.

It also went way over my head that Riju wasn’t Urbosa’s daughter the first time I played BotW, so now I want to write about the Gerudo queen who refused to produce an heir. The Gerudo are fascinating and have a very interesting cutlure, but I think it could be examined from a nonbinary perspective that rejected pregnancy and wanting to find a husband. Not in like a hateful way, but in a way that examines if that’s really right for everyone. There’s that shop in town that sells Voe armor, after all. Maybe finding a husband and having children isn’t something you have to do if you don’t want to. And Urbosa really doesn’t want to.

[ravioxhilda]

A little something I wrote for the New Year, to start off 2021 with the promise of productivity in the future. I hope you enjoy!

“So, I guess you finally saved me. It took you long enough, waiting one hundred years in this hell was not fun.”

Revali stood in front of Link, though even he could see that the Hero was confused, and honestly, he couldn’t blame him.

“Do you not have any of your memories from one hundred years ago?” He asked, and Link merely shook his head.

Revali sighed, as he looked out over Medoh’s head towards Hyrule Castle, where even from there he could sense Zelda’s faint aura from the castle.

“I suppose it doesn’t matter, you still have to save the Princess. Was I the last Champion you rescued?”

Link shook his head again, pointing towards the Gerudo Desert, where Revali could distinctly see that Vah Naboris was still glowing red, surrounded by a dense sandstorm that even he could barely see through.

“I suppose being second to last is better than not being saved at all. You have my thanks, I suppose.” Revali said, and as Link turned to leave, Revali looked towards Lanayru and saw Vah Ruta perched on a rock, its red beam now pointing at Hyrule Castle.

“Wait, Link!”

Link turned around to see that Revali had reached out towards him as if he was about to grab him, though if that would even work, neither of them knew.

“You rescued Mipha, right?” Revali asked finally, and Link nodded, holding up one finger with his hand.

She was the first he saved. She was free.

The small gesture filled Revali both with relief and with dread, as he hesitated for a moment.

“Did you speak to her?” He asked, and Link nodded once more, though by the looks of it, Revali seemed to want to know more, so the Hylian cleared his throat.

“She...wants to see you. She wanted me to come to you first, but Death Mountain was closer.” Link said, and Revali could only stare at him in shock.

“She wants to see me? She doesn’t hate me?” Revali said, and Link faintly smiled and shook his head.

“I think you should go to her. She should be in Vah Ruta, or close by.”

Link then disappeared from the Divine Beast, leaving Revali alone, as he began positioning Medoh to land on top of the rock that rose high above Rito Village and take aim at Hyrule Castle.

It seemed every adult Rito from the small village was flying around Medoh as it landed on top of the rock, with Revali commanding the Divine Beast to fire a red beam.

As soon as the red light was directed towards Hyrule Castle, he could see Ruta aiming from across the kingdom, and as soon as he was satisfied that Medoh would stay put, he disappeared without a trace, desperate to get to Mipha.

Mipha was sitting atop Vah Ruta staring off into space towards Zora’s Domain when she felt a sudden burst of warmth in her heart, and she whipped her head to see Medoh in the distance, the blue light emanating from it a comfort after seeing that awful shade of red for so long.

“Mipha.”

She turned to see Revali standing behind her, the slight glow around him signifying that he was now a spirit.

“Revali? Is that really you?” Mipha asked, and he nodded, the tears that were starting to well up in his eyes matching her own.

“It’s me. Link just freed Medoh, and I had to come see you as soon as I could. Sorry it took one hundred years.” He said with a sad smile, and Mipha laughed at the small joke he made, wiping the tears from her eyes as Revali stepped closer towards her.

Mipha looked up towards him as he reached his wing out and wiped away the tear running down her cheek with his finger, a soft smile on his face.

“Revali?”

Hearing his name come from her mouth after one hundred years was the breaking point for Revali as he gently pulled Mipha into a hug, holding her as closely as he could, his wings completely encapsulating the Zora and leaning his head on top of her shoulder.

Mipha wrapped her arms around Revali’s torso, her face buried in his chest, and she could feel him slowly shuddering as he tried and failed to contain the tears he so desperately wanted to let out, after the pain of one hundred years of being apart.

She squeezed her arms around him tighter as a silent reassurance that she was there, which was all it took for him to start crying, the rough sobs coming from him hurting Mipha’s heart, but she knew he needed this, so she began to cry with him as well, feeling Revali press his wings tighter against her.

The two stayed in each other’s arms for quite some time, afraid that if they let go the other would disappear, and while they were both worried that Ganon could break free from Hyrule Castle at any moment, Revali had faith in both Link and Zelda to keep the beast at bay long enough for him and Mipha to have this moment together in peace.

Mipha was the first to loosen her grip despite how much she did not want to, but only separated enough from Revali to look up at him, reaching her hand to cup his cheek, her thumb running over the red feathers that marked his cheeks.

“Words cannot tell you how happy I am that you are here. I was hoping Link would rescue you sooner, but I suppose I should be grateful that he got to you at all. Rito Village is quite far from Lanayru, after all, and it’s an even longer journey with Hyrule being riddled with monsters.” Mipha said, and Revali chuckled, pressing his forehead against Mipha’s, closing his eyes for a moment.

“I guess he did something right after all. I have waited one hundred years to see you again, Princess. I can hardly believe I’m here with you.” He said quietly, and Mipha laughed sadly at his response.

“It is quite tragic that it took our deaths to be able to see each other again, but until we have to face against Calamity Ganon, I want to be with you as much as I can. Will you stay with me?” She asked, and Revali smiled.

“Of course, Princess.”

[silentprincess17]

Sometimes Things Have To Get Worse Before They Get Better

This is essentially a darker, heavier alternate take on Memory #7 - Blades of the Yiga. I wanted to write a fic with a competent Yiga Clan. (Yes you read that right). It is very angsty in the beginning and then becomes fluffy (hence the title!)

Summary: Link and Zelda have returned from Vah Naboris with Urbosa and have spent the night in Kara Kara Bazaar Inn. Link wakes up and finds her missing.

Cue the angst.

This story is complete and I will post each chapter daily on here but you can read the whole thing on AO3

Rating: Mature (Graphic descriptions of violence) Pairing: Link/Zelda (Zelink) Characters: Link, Zelda, The Yiga Clan, Master Kohga

Chapter 1 Chapter 2

Chapter 3: So what do we do now? (or the fluffy chapter to the previous angsty one)

Link awoke and immediately questioned it, because he felt like he was still dreaming, in a Castle Courtyard where, as a child he’d snuck through a small canal to get in to see the Princess, and as an adult he’d waltzed in as Captain of the Guards. Because he could hear her lullaby. It had been so long… He slowly opened his eyes, disorientated because he was staring into the familiar vivid green eyes of His Princess, not the blue of other, so she wasn’t her, and he wasn’t him, but the lullaby? And she was smiling at him, albeit weakly. What- smiling? His Princess? At him?! What had happened?

There was more to add to his confusion though, because she was humming. She was the one humming the lullaby, but it wrong, because it wasn’t her lullaby, but really who was he to say otherwise, it probably was the lullaby for all the Princesses named Zelda. It- it was achingly familiar, but disturbing because all the times felt wrong and messed up. This wasn’t his, this wasn’t meant to comfort him, but it was anyway.

But why was he –

He blinked, waking up properly this time. He suddenly realised where he was exactly. He was in the Princess of Hyrule’s lap. His head was resting on her thighs. She was stroking his hair. His ponytail was gone. She was humming her lullaby to him. And she wasn’t angry at him.

Everything about this situation screamed wrong.

And then it all came hurtling back, and Link felt like he’d been stabbed all over with those darts the Yiga had aimed at her stomach. They’d been captured by the Yiga. Goddesses above. He rapidly sat up and felt a burst of pain all the way across his right shoulder and down his arm, and his vision swam, from the remaining drug in his system or from the pain he didn’t know.

“Link! Don’t get up so fast you-”

She gently pulled on his good arm, and he didn’t put up much resistance, mainly because it felt like the wind had been knocked out of him. He felt so disjointed, and he knew this was wrong, but he wasn’t feeling well enough to protest.

And okay, maybe he was a little glad she didn’t seem to hate him anymore. Just a little.

He raised his eyebrows at her, hoping she’d understand. She did. “After they drugged you asleep, because I guess they figured they’d never beat you otherwise, they did the same for me- I got caught barely a few metres from where you fell. And then I presume we both got carted to their Hideout. I woke up before you because I had a lower dose, and I, um, well.”

She awkwardly pointed to his right shoulder. “You know, I’m no Mipha, and it’s not like we have any healing resources, but I needed to close your wound in case it got infected- I believe they wrenched the sickle out of you before they dumped us in here. And I thought it best to at least try to sew it together whilst you were asleep and couldn’t feel much. It, went well, surprisingly- you didn’t bleed excessively considering they removed the object that was effectively acting as a tamponade, but I think because it landed squarely in your trapezius, it didn’t hit any major blood supplies, thankfully. I cleaned it as best as I could. And it was a good thing I had my mini sewing supplies in my pocket, Urbosa’s skirt had a small cut she wanted me to- uh- never mind. It was lucky that I forgot to put the kit in my pouch, which they took so.”

She paused, “Anyway, just as I put in the last stitch, thinking I could, maybe, relax a little, you started to thrash around, flailing all your limbs everywhere. With hindsight, I think the draught was fading by that point…” She took a short, sharp breath, “And I obviously couldn’t risk you ripping the wound open so in an attempt to calm you I held your head down and started humming and it, uh, worked. So that is why. I was. Doing that.” She fisted her hands awkwardly, bunching the material of her shirt in her hands, between her fractured phrases. Her eyes flittered around, looking everywhere but him. “And I didn’t want you to open that wound again, we don’t have many supplies so, so I guided you to lie down again.” She was clearly uncomfortable. And was that- Farore. She was blushing, he realised. Because of him.

That felt incredibly wrong, no Princess should ever blush at her Knight, so he readied himself to move off her and give her some much needed space.

He nodded, putting her out of her misery before sitting up much more slowly this time. He looked over his shoulder trying to see how bad the wound was, but she’d done an excellent job in sewing him up. Perhaps the embroidery skills she’d learnt were amenable to medical stiches too. He scooted away from her, trying to clear his head a little, and forget how comfortable it felt. How much he’d enjoyed her deft fingers working through his hair. How she'd still smelled of lavender, honey and just a hint of Gerudo spice –

He shook his head, clearly, he was still somewhat delusional following the heady sleeping draught. He needed to apologise to her and he needed to try to find a way to get out. He suddenly remembered her neck, and he dashed over, scanning across her whole body quickly, trying to see if she was okay and if any other wounds had been inflicted on her whilst he was asleep.

“Link!”

What? He had to- why was she bending her neck? He could guess why, and his gut twisted on itself. He’d let her get hurt. He hesitantly raised his hand, and placed it close to her chin, not quite touching, but Zelda tracked his movement and slowly nodded. He ever so gently touched the tips of his fingertips onto her jaw, and pressed upwards and she elongated her neck in compliance.

He gasped. She’d wiped it down, but there was a red, clearly inflamed, scabbed over, curved, line across her neck. He screwed his eyes shut, half wanting to throw up, even though he knew he had nothing in his stomach. He couldn’t look at her, this was his fault, he’d allowed her to get hurt. Some Appointed Knight he was.

He was so lost in cursing himself and his inability to protect her that he missed her hand moving and pressing down on his own, still softly holding her jaw. His eyes flew open at that, but he still couldn’t meet her gaze, looking everywhere but her. “Link.” He knew what she was going to say, and he didn’t want to hear it. It was his fault.

“Link, look at me.”

He couldn’t deny an order from his Princess.

“It wasn’t your fault. You were not the one to draw the sickle against me, okay?” He reluctantly nodded, seeing where she was coming from. “If anything, it was mine for running away. And I should be the one apologising, because you got hurt- and your wound is much more severe compared to this simple scab that will heal with time. And that’s notwithstanding the whole infection risk of using embroidery thread and not actual medical sutures.”

She sighed, patting the ground next to her. He reluctantly let go of her and sat down as she wished, his vision swirled a little, from all the abrupt movement.

She fiddled with her fingers, before turning to him, a determined look in her eyes. “I truly am sorry Link. For- for everything. From running away all those times, to being childishly jealous of you and your success, to… even shouting at you.” She sighed, “Not to mention taking out all my petty frustrations on you, whilst you were only trying to do your job. For, well, letting you get hurt because of me. For ending up here…” She shoved her head in her hands. “Goddesses above, the list never ends. I-”

Her voice went quiet. “I apologise, Link, for not being the Princess you deserve.”

He was shocked. He hadn’t been expecting that to say the least. Words had never been his forte, so he did the best he could.

He tenderly tilted her head towards him, and then shook his head. The vulnerability he saw in those verdant eyes struck him. She was serious, she genuinely regretted it, and he tried to smile reassuringly. How could he ever remain upset with her anyway? Not when he understood and related to her so well.

He placed his other hand on his heart and bent his head towards her. “You accept? No, you forgive me? So easily? No, I insist you give some punishment Link.”

He chuckled, shaking his head as he raised both hands up, shrugging slightly. He was never one for punishments and he forgave her, because he understood, he truly did. He just needed to think through his words, and he’d tell her properly.

“You're too kind. I'll find a way, to earn my forgiveness, even if you've already accepted. Although... perhaps being here is punishment enough.” She hugged her knees to her chest, and he closed his eyes for a second, just trying to get his bearings. He still felt dizzy and sitting up so fast as soon as he had woken up, and then rushing to Zelda to look over her had not helped matters. Most likely, this was due to a side effect from inhaling such a high concentration of the drought. He’d have to wait for a bit before moving again, and he spread his palms out on the ground next to his thighs to try to get over the remaining queasiness, keeping his eyes shut so he wouldn’t be further disorientated.

He felt her slip her hand just next to his, her pinkie finger barely touching his thumb.

And Link felt his heart speed up a little. He couldn’t help but feel pleased they’d finally made some progress and were no longer at odds with each other. For the first time, the silence that descended on them was a comfortable one, not fraught with tension like every other time they’d been left alone together. And for that, he was immeasurably glad.

After taking a few minutes to recover his bearings, Link slowly opened his eyes, and was pleased to find his world was not tilting on its axis. He took several deep breaths, trying to ignore the stabbing pain in his shoulder.

Okay. He was ready now, to start thinking of a plan.

He motioned for Zelda to wait as he heaved himself to stand, very slowly. And nothing happened, everything was still balanced. Good. He headed over to the bars, first, before realising they were made, in fact, of fairly hardy steel and it wasn’t at all rusted. There would be no hope of breaking them directly, not by hand anyway. And where was the door? He belated realised the metal on one side was different to the others. It was darker in shade. He flicked his index finger at it, but it came back just as hard and resonant. Well. Clearly whatever it was wouldn’t be easy to break either. He tried to stemmy the rising panic when thinking about how the hell they were supposed to break out. He moved to the bottom of the bars, but it became rapidly obvious to him that the mongrels had drilled the bars a significant distance down, too low for them to try to dig out. She shuffled over.

“I had a quick check over the cell too, before, I um, realised that you were hurt. They sort of left you with your back to the wall, so I didn’t actually see the bleeding until I got up close and- well. You know the rest of it. There really isn’t much other than the toilet in the next cell that we can go into.” His eyes lit up, “But no, it’s the exact same thing as this one. More bars, just with a curtain for decency I guess.”

He decided to check everything anyway. Alas, it was an airtight cell. There wasn’t a single thing they could manipulate. Clearly the Yiga had been planning for this.

He cast his eyes out, looking beyond the bars and realised that it in fact looked out to what seemed to be a gigantic circular hole in the sand. The landscape itself naturally moulded into a giant cylinder, perfect to keep the Yiga hidden, and impossible for them to climb out without being seen. If they could even get out of the cell to begin with. Although, eerily, everything seemed quiet.

He turned back to Zelda, motioning to the space outside and then pointing to the banana symbol engraved in the wall. “I found it surprising too. I have no idea where they’ve gone. It’s all very calm. I’m not sure why... Well, this sounds morbid, but I don’t understand why they’ve kept me alive. Surely their intention was to assassinate, and yet, now we’re locked up, and they haven’t come yet. Although I can only assume this is a good thing, time to plan an escape… maybe… well hopefully, anyway.”

He fought a smile off his face. She always did talk too much. Perhaps that was a good thing though, it balanced him out quite nicely.

He sighed, moving to sit down again, it was best to conserve his strength. And looking at the red lanterns and those weird orange wooden planks linked to each other was freaking him out a little. He wasn't sure what the symbolism was, but he was wary. There wasn’t much else they could do, other than wait for one of the Yiga to come, and make the mistake of opening the door, then Link would go into hand combat, and they would have to scale the cliff out of the here. The section to the right actually appeared the least steep, so hopefully Zelda would be able to manage that. However, he could see the snow from here and that meant there was risk of hypothermia, and they didn't have their normal stock of elixirs. Goddesses above, his head hurt from thinking through all the ways this could go wrong.

“You’re looking at the end cliff face. Do you think-”

He nodded.

“I think I can do it. Will you be okay with your wound?”

He nodded again.

She exhaled heavily, coming to sit down next to him. “The chance of a rescue team coming to find us is also depressingly slim, at the minute, because according to Urbosa, we’ve left the desert. According to my father, we’re in the process of travelling to the Spring of Power, and whilst we’re in the vicinity we’re supposed to go visit Daruk again to see if he’s has any progress with controlling Vah Rudania. Therefore, we are not due back at the Castle for another three weeks at least to account for travel time, so he won’t be suspicious of our continued absence. And Daruk thinks were going to Spring first and I don’t think he knows that you are only supposed to stay a day there- he might assume I’ve succeeded and so stayed for longer, or even that we were delayed in Gerudo Town…”

He nodded. Basically, all that meant external help was not coming any time soon.

“How long do you think it’ll take them to realise we’ve been captured?”

He thought about it for a few seconds. It would take at least another two weeks for Daruk to realise something was up, and by the time he relayed that over to Urbosa and the King, it will have been at least three. And then they still needed to search over Hyrule as to where exactly the Princess and Link were, before tracking them down to the Kara Kara Bazaar Inn, and hopefully realising they were, in fact, abducted by the Yiga Clan. And as to the actual rescue itself, he doubted it would take more than a couple of days simply because it involved the Princess and the Hero - the two people who were truly capable of fighting the ever-approaching evil. So overall that was what? Four and a half weeks?

He held up four fingers. Best to not dash her hopes too much.

“Hylia above! A month?!” She slumped against the wall. “I can see why though. It- it’s just so inconvenient that we decided to combine three separate outings into one. And that is why no one will actually realise we are in trouble.”

Link didn’t point out that this was, in fact, a common occurrence. The Princess often fabricated another couple of reasons to delay going back the Castle. He understood why of course. Facing her father with repeated failures was hard and being out in Hyrule meant she could at least be of some use in terms of her research. Frankly, if he’d been in her position, he would have done the same.

“Another thing that I didn’t mention before, but you should probably know, is that they took the Sheikah Slate.”

Oh crap. Purah would kill them both, but she’d go all out on Link, fond as she was of Princess Zelda. She’d skewer him alive and then Robbie would sprinkle on his various guardian parts on top for seasoning and the two of them would roast him slowly for committing such a crime. And then they’d recover the guardian parts because those were precious and were not likely to burn, unlike his mortal form, into ashes anyway. Why was thinking of this and how did he come up with this much detail?

He must have had a look of apt horror on his face because she chuckled slightly, “Yes, I know. Even if we survive this whole abduction, we will probably not live for long afterwards.”

He shook his head. No, they would survive. He would make sure of it. She smiled a little in response.

Something was unsettling him though. It felt like a there was a gnawing hole inside him. At first he thought it was because of Zelda getting hurt, and then because of his dizziness but it suddenly hit him what was missing. His heart skipped a beat in fear. He glanced over, looking at his shoulder again, in vain because he knew it was empty and the confirmation terrified him. He looked at her with wide eyes, not daring to think of the implications. “I- I don’t actually know what happened to the Master Sword, Link, it was – um, in that Yiga’s head and then I was knocked out. I don’t know if they took it, or left it behind…”

And there went Link’s last hope of killing the darkness.

[needs-to-stop-looking-at-yigas]

Could we get another Miphlink/Yiga Husbands double date?? I can't get over how much I love the way you write them! 😅

Thank you! I do in fact, love writing them all, including Mipha, who is JUST precious! (also yes to that one anon, you’re getting that smut of them you wanted, I’m getting there. 20 asks don’t get responded to overnight).

“Mipha, lil’ red, how’ve you been?!”

Kohga and Sooga were invited to come over for another double date. It was Mipha’s turn to pick what to do, and she had a rather interesting idea; learning how to make drinks. That was it. Kohga might have thought something like clothes making, maybe even searching for seashells or watching Link do his training. Not that Kohga was complaining, he loved an excuse to drink. Mipha accepted his offer for a hug, just delighted to see him.

“Kohga, Sooga! My dear friends! How are you both?”

Mipha parted from the hug, and offered Sooga her hand. She learned a long time ago that he didn’t exactly enjoy touching women, so she always offered her hand, in case he didn’t want to be touched. He refused it this time around, lightly bowing his head in apology.

“I’m quite well, Lady Mipha. Didn’t think I’d be carrying so much alcohol on my back though.”

Kohga scoffed, arms folded across his chest.

“What? You expect ME to carry it?”

“No Master Kogha, I just-”

“Anyhow, he’s just whiny because it’s an indoor date. I’m SO ready to teach you how to make some drinks! Where’s your little boyfriend anyway?”

“He’s inside, helping me set out the snacks.”

Sooga cocked his head to the side.

“Should...you have left HIM near the food?”

She thought about it for a moment, and realized her mistake.

“Er...pardon me for a moment.”

She dashed back inside, and Kohga chuckled. Sooga looked down at Kohga, and he could NOT stop smiling. Kohga noticed it, and scowled.

“What’s so funny?”

“You call ME such a lovesick sap. Yet here you are, fawning over their love. You’re such a hypocrite.”

“You know what, get your ass inside, I’m not listening to you.”

Sooga chuckled as Kohga nagged him into talking inside. Mipha had her own room in Zora’s domain, but quite frankly, it was like a mini mansion. A giant bedroom, a kitchen, and a living room, all to herself. No doubt it was built for her purely because everyone LOVED her, not that she needed such space. Kohga liked it here though, it was DAMN pretty in here, even though red was his personal favorite color. Kohga closed the door behind them as he dipped his head into the kitchen. Mipha was scolding Link (if you would call her gentle ‘please save food for the guests’ scolding), when she seemed to just now notice them, smiling as she brought over bowls of snacks to the living room.

“Sorry, Link ate most of the fried salmon skins. He really does enjoy my cooking.”

Sooga gave a shake of his head.

“It’s alright, he may have them. Kohga always makes me shower after I eat fish.”

“Because that smell just does NOT go away! How am I supposed to cop a feel when you smell like a doc?”

Link didn’t have any complaints, grabbing the bowl and helping himself to the rest of the salmon skins, nodding at them both in a hello. Mipha chuckled, slightly shaking her head.

“So long as that isn’t an issue for anyone, I would’ve gladly made some more for you, Sooga.”

“Kind, but not needed Mipha, thank you. If I may though, can I put this bag down? I’d hate to accidentally break any bottles.”

“Oh yes, please, on the coffee table!”

Sooga nodded, going to the living room and putting the rather big back of alcohol down onto the table. Mipha brought a little cart full of snacks (including sauteed nuts, honey candies, meaty rice balls, bread and butter, tabantha bakes, and banana chips), pushing it right by the table before she sat down next to Link on one of the couches. Kohga whistled at the rather cute array of treats she had.

“You didn’t have to make so much, Mipha! That’s sweet of you, but I wouldn’t want you putting so much work into this.”

“You agreed to teach us all about making drinks, providing you food is the least I can do! I also have some cake in the fridge, in case we need something else sweet.”

“Ugh, you’re precious Mipha, you really are. Blondie, don’t lose this one, she’s a good one.”

Link nodded in determination, and in a way, Mipha found it adorable. Kohga started to take out the bottles from the pack, setting it all down. Now Kohga wasn’t an alcoholic by any means, but he did like having variety in his drinks, hence why he had QUITE the stock. Mipha leaned over to the tray of snacks, helping herself to a meaty rice ball. Even as she was stuffing her little face, she was being so neat about it, just as the princess she was. Sooga meanwhile, sat up straight and to attention, as usual, not letting himself relax.

“So, what drinks ARE we making today, Master Kohga?”

“Let’s start with Mipha’s. Ladies first and all of that. I know which one you like, I NEVER forget a drink order. Don’t think you’ve ever seen me make drinks actually, so this should be fun.”

Kohga was always fast when it came to making drinks of food. It took him pretty much only a minute to cut fruit, salt the rim (of course he brought his own glasses), pour the ice, juice, vodka and stir. Sure it was a simple drink, but the speed was nonetheless impressive. He handed her the glass, and she gladly accepted it, handing the rest of her rice ball to Link. She took a sip, and although she tried to hide it, he could tell she enjoyed it, based on the way her lips curled into a little bit of a smile.

“I always thought it was so much more complicated than that, quite frankly.”

“Honestly, ANY drink is easy, once you know what you’re doing. Sooga, your turn big guy.”

“I don’t think we packed wine.”

“We didn’t, because that’s boring. That, and I like the fact that you watch my hands when I make these.”

Kohga nudged him with his shoulder, trying and failing not to grin. Sooga knew he was right, he LOVED watching him make things. Be it food, drinks, or...well, anything really. Kohga dug into the bag, pulling out a bunch of stuff. Sooga cocked his head to the side, curious.

“Wait, what are you making-”

“Shh, you’ll like it, trust me.”

In a tall glass, Kohga poured a container of some kind of syrup, adding some wild berries right after. He mashed them up, added a bit of some red liquid, and topped it off with ice cream, and a dash of soda. Sooga picked up the glass, inspecting the rather colorful drink.

“What...is this?”

“It’s a float, just try it. I even made it low alcohol, because you’re a pansy.”

Sooga gave it a sip, and slowly nodded, finding himself rather liking it.

“That’s quite nice, actually. Sweet, but bitter. How did you get the ice cream to stay-”

“Don’t ask questions, and just enjoy. Meanwhile, let’s get to refilling your glass Mipha, you’re all ice over there.”

Mipha looked down at her glass, lightly shaking her head.

“Oh no, I couldn’t possibly. One is more than enough.”

“Come on, you ain’t swimmin’ anywhere. Just one more?”

Mipha hesitated, but chuckled in defeat, handing him her glass.

“Alright. But just one more, then that’s it.”

“Atta girl!”

He chuckled, gladly setting her up with another drink. He had to at this point, who wouldn’t make a drink for their hostess? Especially with the way the snacks seemed to slowly be disappearing. Kohga rested his chin on his hand as he looked at Link.

“Now...what would YOU like, I wonder. Don’t think I’ve ever seen you drink, Goldilocks.”

Link gave a shake of his head, stuffing his face full of buttered bread. Kohga thought about it, before snapping his fingers.

“Wait, I got just the thing for you!”

Link had only just recently become of drinking age, so he wasn’t exactly a booze hound. Not a problem, Kohga catered to anyone and everyone, experience be damned. Kohga started to two different kinds of rum, some vodka, lemonade, and some black currant cordial. He mixed it all together, and slid it over to Link.

“Like it? It’s a ‘pink fairy’. Seems like something you’d like. Bit on the strong for some, but hey go big or big home. Now drink, drink!"

Link took a sip, lightly shaking his head after his sip. Kohga chuckled, leaning over and patting him on his pretty blonde head.

"You'll get used to it, blondie. Just-"

"Link, drink swap."

Mipha traded their drinks (with hers definitely having a lot less), and Link more or less accepted the swap. Mipha chuckled after taking a sip, leaning over to pinch Link's cheek.

"It's adorable, your first drink! You're just. So cute, Link."

Link's face erupted in blush, and he rubbed the back of his head, shy boy he was. Sooga pulled out his Sheikah slate as Kohga made his own drink (banana hammock, obviously), and started to play a song, playing it at a reasonable volume. Mipha seemed pleased as the music played, and she squealed, grabbing onto Link’s arm and flailing her legs wildly.

“Link! Oh I LOVE this music! You HAVE to dance with me! Please please pleeeeease!”

Drunk Mipha was a TOTAL dance bunny, and paired without the usual shyness, it was adorable, honestly. Link finished whatever was left of the drink, and nodded. Link was never one to tell his girl no, and it showed. They both got off of the couch, choosing to get up and dance together. The music wasn’t quick, wasn’t slow, but it enough to give a relaxed party vibe to the room, and Kohga couldn’t help but chuckle, nursing his drink as he watched his drunk little fishy get her groove on.

“You did that on purpose didn’t you?”

“I have no idea what you mean. I just like a little postmodern music. Nice tune.”

“Sap.”

“Enabler.”

They both had a chuckle at that, sitting back and watching these two idiots. Drunk Mipha had a little swagger to her, and Link knew fairly well how to dance. Enough so, he managed to dip her, just to kiss her on her forehead.

“That’s bullshit cute. Can’t say I blame her, boys got moves. He-”

He didn’t get to finish his sentence as Mipha started to tug at his arm, chuckling and swaying in place.

“Come on you two! Can’t just be me and Link up here! Dance with me Kohga!”

“Hey, if you wanna look bad, your funeral, fishy!”

Kohga tossed back the rest of the drink, before trading Link, and getting his chance to dance with Mipha. Link watched Mipha nearly giggle herself half to death, before he offered his hand to Sooga. He rolled his eyes, taking another sip of his drink.

“I suppose Kohga would just scold me if I refused. Alright.”

He accepted his hand, and joined him right next to Mipha and Kohga. It was half hearted, not very well done dancing, but that didn’t matter. All that mattered was that they were having fun, chuckles and giggles moving around the room, just as much as their feet were. Even Sooga had to admit; he was having fun. He swapped partners with Kohga, now dancing with a very enthusiastic Mipha. Thankfully, he wasn’t scared enough to NOT twirl the little princess in place, catching her before her dizziness nearly made her fall to the floor. She cared not at all, laughing it off rather loudly.

“Ha! You’re just like Link! Ever the sweetheart, Sooga.”

“I’d say he’s a lot more like Kohga, quite frankly.”

He chuckled, glancing over at Kohga and Link, who were having just WAY too much fun together. Mipha giggled, getting herself to stand back up.

“You love Kohga SO much, oh my GOD its so sweet. I cry thinking about you guys sometimes, it’s SO sweet. You guys NEED to get married. I wanna see it, so bad.”

“Kohga WOULD look good in a dress, I agree.”

“Thought that’d be you. You have the tits for it.”

“...pardon-”

“Oh switch time!”

Their partners swapped, and suddenly Kohga was in his arms. Not that he had any complaints. Kohga laughed as he held onto Sooga, still keeping in tune to the song.

“Good call on the swap, any longer and I might’ve stolen her mans. I’m telling you, he’s into me.”

“Not anymore than me, Master Kohga.”

“Is that a fact?”

“Absolutely. I can prove it too.”

Sooga leaned down, parted their masks a bit, and pressed his lips against Kohga’s. It was a sweet, tender moment between them, and even though it wasn’t an outdoorsy date, Sooga wouldn’t trade it for anything.

“Link!-”

They both turned to watch Link trip over himself, sending himself falling on top of Mipha, who fell backwards onto the couch. They both shared a laugh, and it was tender, watching Mipha hold onto Link’s face as she did.

“Oh...you’re a big, silly man, Link. I love you. You and your soft face, and your big elephant ears.”

They both snorted at that, forehead pressed together. Sooga looked down at Kohga, who was clearly amused at them both.

“Kohga?”

“Hmm?”

“Did you...think it would end up like this?”

“Well yeah, they’re nuts for each other-”

“No. I mean...everything. Us being together, the world being as perfect as it is now. Did you see that coming?”

“...no. But you know, I’m really glad things ended up how they did. All of it.”

Kohga put his hand into Sooga’s, chuckling. There was a sweet, blissful moment of tenderness between them, before Sooga spoke again.

“You want to grab everything in the fridge and leave them be?”

“Absolutely, been thinking about the cake this whole time.”

[misterewrites]

I get by with a little help from my friends (and Link)

Hey everyone! E here with a random story popped into my head! I needed to write this for practice for another project but I still had a lot of fun with it. So this story takes place in the wild timeline between Age of Calamity and breath of the wild. Like that weird middle ground where the champions were getting ready. Upfront I did as much research as I could cuz it has been a while since I played BOTW and I did use a wiki with some references to the game and such, avoided spoilers I think and I did kinda go with my own conclusion in some places for the sake of story cuz the wiki only knows so much and I can't replay the entire game again. Well I can but not in a short time for this story. Also some Light Zelda and link cuz they’re cute and if nintendo wont canon them, I will! 

So I hope you enjoy! have fun, stay safe, wear a mask and wash your hands! E is out! have a great week everyone! If you want to leave me comments or just have an easier time reading this story, it has been uploaded to Ao3. My user name is MrE42

“He’s still there, isn’t he?”

Impa shrugged, unsure what the princess was expecting her to say “You know he is.”

Zelda huffed, irritated at her father’s watchdog who silently kept watch just outside, stoic and stalwart in his duty to an annoying degree.

Zelda, princess of Hyrule and aspiring scholar, trained from birth to be poised and refined in the harshest situations, made a face towards the library door.

“I do not need a babysitter.” Zelda fumed as she filmed through the bookshelves “You are here Impa and far more suited to the task than my father’s knights.”

“Your knights” Impa corrected “And normally I would agree but with Yiga clan beginning to cause more and more trouble, you and the kingdom need my Sheikah to prevent their tricks. I am their leader and I have to lead. Same as you princess.”

“I know” Zelda replied, unable to keep out the frustration out of her voice “But I wish my father chose a...different person”

Impa rolled her eyes “We both know that Link is the most capable solider in the kingdom. He is without equal and you are only mad at him because your father chose him.”

“I am not a child Impa.”

“No but you are the magical princess whose power would help keep the calamity at bay. I can’t fathom why your father would want you protected at all times.”

Zelda glared openly at her best friend “Your sarcasm is noted and ignored.”

“Excellent” Impa beamed “But in all seriousness, these are dangerous princess. Your father caused quite a ruckus choosing a country bumpkin instead of the nobles lovely, incompetent children.”

Zelda shifted guiltily at the mention of the nobility. They were not pleased that the king of Hyrule had decided to entrust the safety of his only heir and future ruler of their kingdom to a nobody from Hateno Village. It did not matter that Link had come from a long line of knights whom had been protecting the land for almost as long as Zelda’s family had been ruling it. Nor did it matter that he was their most fierce and well trained warrior. He was not of nobility and it angered her that someone who simply wanted to do their best was being mistreated.

Even if she was guilty of the same crime.

“I just wish he appeared more human.” Zelda quietly admitted, hoping Link could not hear “He is emotionless. His gaze is entirely steely and he has not spoken a single word to me. He simply stands, watching and waiting.

“Judging?” Impa added.

Zelda glanced to the side shamefully “Judging. Judging that his talents are wasted on a princess who cannot even perform the single duty that has been entrusted to her.”

“I think you’re projecting.”

“And you are far too calm.”

Impa giggled cutely “Appearances. I’m as nervous as you princess but I know better than anyone how uneasy people get if their leaders show panic. Your powers will come when they come. You will figure it out.”

Zelda turned to the ninja leader fearfully “And if they don’t?”

“Then I’ll protect you.” Impa answered truthfully “Link will protect you and the champions will kick some ganon butt! You’re not alone so stop acting like it.”

“Thank you Impa.” Zelda moved in for a hug.

“Nope!” Impa took a step back “No, no, no! That’s not proper.”

“I order you to give your princess a hug.”

“…..sigh, yes your highness.”

-----

Zelda’s eyes twinkled with a rare softness as she, Link and Mipha watched the young zora prince Sidon swim so carefree in the deep blue waters of the lake. Link was further ahead of the two princesses, standing at the shore of the lake vigilante for any signs of trouble.

“He certainly takes his duty seriously.” Zelda murmured under her breath.

Mipha laughed softly “It is nice to see how age has calmed him.”

Zelda tilted curiously to the champion “Mipha, you’ve known Link since you were both children, correct?”

Mipha nodded in confirmation “Yes ever since he arrived with a group of knights on orders of King Rhoam. Even then he was courageous. Impossibly reckless however but I suppose that is simply who Link is.

Mipha’s soft laughter grew into a playful chortle. Zelda quizzically stared at her fellow princess.

“Sorry your highness.” Mipha waved her hand in embarrassment “I was just thinking to myself how much healing practice Link has gotten me. I suppose I am as proficient as I am thanks him.”

“Oh?”

“He was always getting into trouble.” Mipha began, her voice taking on a hue of nostalgia “Always injured after throwing himself head first into danger. He hated sitting still, allowing others to suffer for him. His shell might be more silent and stoic but he is still the kind boy I knew. That I…”

Zelda caught the slight longing in the zora princess’s tone “Mipha?”

“It is nothing.”

Mipha slipped into a comfortable silence but Zelda bristled uneasily at a sudden realization.

“Mipha….”

Mipha faced Zelda, worry and concern etched in the scholar’s face.

“Do you think…” Zelda spoke slowly “Link hates me? That his talented and training is wasted watching a princess who cannot even produce a glare of light. I drag him everywhere, fuming at his presence all while he watches with an endless vigil.”

Mipha gently placed her hand onto Zelda’s shoulder. Zelda felt a calming presence fill her body and a quiet peace that came with it.

Mipha gave a soft smile “Link knows better than anyone how hard you are trying. He knows how desperate you must be. He does not disdain your loathing. He simply is giving you the space you desire. His duty is everything to him and he will perform it to his dying breath. You are his princess. He will ensure your safety.”

Zelda said nothing and despite the calming peace she felt, the twinge of guilt began to eat at her.

“LINK!”

The tension broke as Zelda and Mipha glanced back towards the lake. Sidon giggled and chuckled at a full swim, rapidly heading for the shore and Link. Link, caught off guard in a rare moment, began to panic. He moved this way and that, frantically searching beyond the approaching zora in search for a nonexistent threat.

He realized, too late, what Sidon was up to.

With a mighty push, Sidon flew out of the deep blue waters and sailed through the air, hands outstretched as he collided with Link. Link flailed backwards, struggling to keep his footing but ultimately losing it. He fell backwards onto the shore, Sidon embracing him tightly a bone breaking hug. Even young, a zora was strong.

“Sidon!” Mipha chastised but before she could move closer, Link stood up with the still embracing prince, an evil glint in his eyes.

“Oh dear.”

“What is happening?” Zelda asked, unsure what was going on.

Link picked up Sidon, holding him high into the air as the young prince chanted “Do it, do it, do it!”

And just like that, Link spun around. Around and around, once, twice, five times building speed with Sidon’s cheers filled the air. Without warning, Link chucked the young zora through the air and back into the lake.

Sidon dove in wholeheartedly and broke the surface with a triumphant yell.

“20 feet! A NEW RECORD!”

Mipha rubbed her eyes tiredly “Boys.”

Zelda giggled softly as Link rose his arms in victory.

-----

“Daruk?”

“Yeah tiny princess?”

“Is that...a rock?”

“Yeah it is!”

“And why...is Link….eating the rock?”

“It’s prime rock roast! He got a real taste for it after the first time.”

“Oh. Right. I recall that now.”

Daruk bellowed with a hearty laugh “Dontcha worry princess, little guy might a hylian but he’s got the stomach of a goron! I bet he’d eat anything. Even some kind of dubious food that’s just too gross to look at. KEEP IT UP LINK!”

Link raised a thumb as he continued to chew on the rocky texture of the roast.

Zelda couldn’t help but smile the Daruk’s presence. His good nature and cheeriness were too infectious for even the royal princess to resist.

“Now what brings you out here tiny princess? Did you finally want to try out the roast? I can have cooks whip up a fresh, steaming one for ya.”

“What? Oh no.” Zelda quickly responded “No. I ate at home before we arrived so I am quite full. Perhaps next time. I am actually here to see if you needed anything.”

Daruk rubbed the back of his neck shyly “Aww thanks tiny princess! I appreciate it! Though if you don’t wanna eat the roast, you can just tell me. I know it isn’t everyone’s taste.”

“Oh. I am sorry I simply did not want to hurt your feelings.”

“Not to worry, I can’t be hurt!” Daruk beamed, posing heroic as an orangish translucent dome appeared over the goron chief for a moment, shielding him from the outside world.

The pair broke into a joyful laugh.

“Thank you Daruk.”

“Think nothing of it tiny princess. Though, now that you mentioned it I might need a little favor from ya.”

Zelda eagerly listened “Name it Daruk and I shall do everything in my power to ensure it done.”

“It’s about Rudania.”

Zelda’s heart sank “The divine beast? Is something amiss?”

“Oh no no no.” Daruk raised his hands as if to physically stop that line of thinking “Nothing serious. It’s just that that wonderful fantastic machine is able to have some alterations. The controls aren’t exactly goron friendly, ya know?”

“Oh! Hmm, I shall talk to Purah and Robbie. If anyone can alter Rudania, it is them.”

“Thanks tiny princess!” Daruk patted her back in a friendly manner. Zelda had to brace herself to make sure she didn’t fall sprawling to the floor.

Rudania.

Zelda glanced upwards Death Mountain, the divine beast in question clinging to the side the volcanic mountain as if keeping an eye out for the calamity.

The divine beasts, ancient Sheikah machines made of stone and an unknown source of power. Her father claimed these machines had been around since the dawn of Hyrule. Though information on these and other Sheikah made devices were contradictory at best and nonexistent at worst. Even Impa, clan leader, knew next to nothing about their functionality or purpose. Luckily for everyone Purah and Robbie had devoted their lives to the study of these machines and it was only thanks to the pairs ceaseless work (and Zelda would say sometimes obsession) that the champions could practice and grew proficient with their individual machines.

“How is your training with Rudania going Daruk?”

Daruk scratched the back of his neck anxiously “I wish I could say it’s going good but it’s not exactly a stroll in the lava, ya know?”

“Of...course.” Zelda nodded slowly, unsure what a stroll in lava would entail “Perhaps we can search for some sort of manual or instructions.”

“Nah” Daruk waved her off “We both know nothing like that probably exists but that’s alright. I’mma going just go for it and do my best!”

Zelda stared at the goron with admiration “I wish I could be as confident as you are.”

“I’m not!”

Zelda watched as Daruk’s face beaming grin melt into an uneasy smile

“I’m not confident” Daruk admitted “This is hard. This is a piece of technology unlike anything else in our little home. I have no idea how to use it or even if I’m doing it right. Heck, I don’t even know if what I’m doing is working. I’m a goron and I’m good at that but this? This is something else.”

Zelda felt that. Her inability to draw on her powers. Her failures and her father’s growing desperation pushing her to extremes, to find an answer regardless of the cost.

“But, I’mma gonna try all the same.”

Daruk’s smile returned. Not with happiness but with determination.

“That’s all we can do, right tiny princess?” Daruk chuckled “Do our best. Maybe it’ll be enough. Maybe it won’t but we gotta at least try.”

Zelda smiled “You are right Daruk. We must at least try. Thank you.”

“You’re welcome! Haha, for what?”

-----

Zelda could feel Link shift his weight back and forth ontop of the snow bank. The pair were bundled in winter gear, huddled close in an attempt to stay warm in the frigid chill of the snowy breeze. Though Zelda knew that wasn’t why Link was unhappy.

“You still here knight? Go home. You need to train some more if you want to keep up with me.”

Link’s face remained as impassive as ever but Zelda could see by the tensing of his cheeks that he was fuming: Revali had that effect on the knight.

She was unsure why the Rito had such a deep disdain for Link but it made it difficult to plan training exercises between the two. Even visits to check on Revali were scarce given the fact Link followed his orders diligently. Nothing would dissuade Link from his task, not even insults and mockery.

Zelda had been softening her stance on Link over the last few weeks. True she hadn’t reached the point where she completely accepted his presence but she no longer loathed him for it. It was not his fault her father was so stubborn and final in his decrees. He did what he was told and he did it with as much respect as he could muster. It was oddly comforting to have him near in the rare moment she was being honest. Whether it be researching any leads to unlocking her powers to her hobby of cataloging the various flora and fauna of Hyrule, he did not judge her. He watched in a quiet reverence, his eyes darting about for signs of danger so she would feel safe enough to focus on her task. And the more time they spent together, the more she realized he was more expressive than she previously thought.

His emotions were far subtler: A twitch of the ear, a raised eyebrow, clenching of his jaws. This is how Link spoke. This is how he displayed his emotions. Little signs easily missed unless you had been searching for them.

Not that Zelda was looking. That would be silly for her to simply stare at the knight accompanying her all across the kingdom, protecting her from the various threats found throughout. She was merely making observations like the good scholar she was. Link was no different than the flora and fauna she studied. Granted he was a much more interesting subject but….

“Princess.”

Zelda snapped out of her thoughts, her face flushed with embarrassment at her trailing thoughts.

“Are you well?” Revali cocked his head sideways “Your face is red. I rather you not get sick simply because you wish to stand in this cold.”

“I-it is nothing Revali!” Zelda stammered out “Perhaps a small chill. It will pass. I am here to…”

“To see if I need anything” he finished for her “No princess, unlike certain people” he eyed Link distastefully “I am fine.”

Link said nothing but rather shifted the weight on his feet once more.

“Link” Zelda turned to her knight “Perhaps you could patrol the area. I fear the winds are growing more fierce. I would not want to walk back to the castle among an ambush if there is a storm.”

Link remained silent but gave a rigid, steely nod. He caught Revali’s gaze for a moment then trudge off into the snow.

“I don’t why you bring him” Revali sneered “He’s a worthless knight.”

“If he’s so worthless, why do you waste your time berating him?”

Revali turned his head “Hmmph, if your knight is so fragile that a little mockery scares him off, he has no business being with us.”

“Revali!” Zelda began but was silenced by his outstretched wing.

“I am the best princess.” He spoke matter of fact “I am your greatest warrior. My skill is unrivaled across the kingdom.”

Zelda fumed but allowed him to continue.

“I have overcome many challenges and challengers to my title” Revali’s looked out to the various snowy hills and slopes of the mountain, the Rito village barely visible among the snow flurry “I bested them all. When you are so talented, many eyes will fall upon you and their expectations as well. They will say whatever they wish. You must ignore them. You must not allow their pitiful jealousy distract from your task, your goal. I am here to protect my people and for that, I must be the best. I must work with the best and I must train with people with some skill.”

“Revali, what are you…?”

Revali scoffed “You have kept me from training princess. Your knight might be the best among you but he certainly is no match for me. How is he supposed to survive the upcoming fight unless he fights with his all against a superior opponent.”

“I see” Zelda slowly caught on.

“Good. I will be at the castle tomorrow. Make sure your knight is ready for bruises and sores. I won’t have him die on us because he was being lazy.”

“Of course Revali. I’m sure Link will appreciate your concern.”

Revali huffed “I don’t like deadweight is all.”

Zelda said nothing but remembered that Link had won the champion’s last archery contest a few weeks ago.

-----

The desert was colder than you would expect at night but Zelda was not stranger to it. She loved coming out to the Gerudo desert with her mother, spending all day among the Gerudo and its splendor. It was quiet out here, bringing a rare peace not found in the city. The distant sound of thunder boomed but it was soft and enlightening more than frightening. It comforted Zelda.

“Thinking of her again little bird?”

Zelda nodded honestly, the desert stretched out before her as the twinkling stars glimmered beautifully overhead.

Urbosa, champion and her mother’s dearest friend, stood watch nearby.

Zelda turned back to Link, unable to keep the grin off her face as he remained slumped against the wall, his riding hood and cloak turned into a makeshift blanket. His breathing was slow and steady and while it was clear he was sleeping, she also knew that with one word from her lips he would awaken, ready for whatever awaited him.

She was glad he was resting at least. This had been his first trip to the desert and he had not quite been prepared for the intense heat nor the attention he received from the town. A male within its walls was a rare sight. She knew Link disliked attention above all else, except perhaps Revali.

She giggled at her joke.

“You seem more comfortable with Link than I remember.���

“Oh.” Zelda cleared her throat, willing her blush away “Well y-yes. Some of my conversations with the others have led to some interesting insight. Perhaps I had not been considerate towards Link. He is just performing his duty.”

Urbosa leaned in teasingly “Link now is it? Not the knight or he?”

Zelda’s blush spread rapidly throughout her cheeks.

Urbosa laughed loudly “You are far too easy to fluster little bird.”

“I am not flustered!”

“I don’t blame you” Urbosa glanced at Link’s sleeping form “He is quite handsome and not like most men.”

“Urbosa!”

Urbosa laugh once more “So it worked then?”

Zelda was confused “What did?”

“My distraction.”

“Distraction? From?” Realization washed over Zelda “Oh.”

Urbosa gave a solemn nod “I miss your mother terribly. She was an amazing woman and I feel her loss deeply now as I did then.”

Zelda tucked her legs under her arms “I feel like she would be disappointed in me. Not having unlocked my power. Chasing down lead after lead with nothing to show for it.”

“Don’t be absurd!” Urbosa scolded “She would be proud of you. Her beautiful daughter, a natural leader. Especially between Link and Revali. Hylia’s miracle you managed to wrangle them into line. I thought they were going to murder each other at their last training session.”

“I admit I was worried I was about to have to arrest one of them for murder.” Zelda admitted.

The two shared a laugh.

“Do not fret little bird.” Urbosa cupped Zelda’s cheek lovingly “She would think the world of you. She would want you to do your best, not hers.”

“I miss her Urbosa.” Zelda shed a single tear “I just miss her so terribly.”

“Me too little bird. But she lives on in you.”

Zelda clenched her fist, holding it close to her heart as she closed her eyes “I suppose I’ll just have keep at it.”

“That a girl. Now want to see something funny?” Urbosa grinned mischievously, a snap at the ready while she approached the slumbering form of Link.

-----

Link was unsure what to make of princess Zelda’s request to ask him some questions. It had been a few months since he was first assigned to her guard detail and while it had been rather rocky start, she grew to tolerate his presence and was almost friendly with him.

Almost.

Today started off no different than any other: Princess Zelda wanted to stretch her legs out in the fields. Link was used to this particularly outing. He noticed the princess often wished to leave the castle on the days her father was being forceful about her training her powers. Something that was happening with increasing occurrence nowadays.

Despite his lack of talking and general stoic disposition, he enjoyed his time with the princess. True most of it had been at a distance, carefully watching out for her safety but these last few weeks had been a nice change of pace. She allowed to walk closer to her, hadn’t scoffed or turned up her nose at him trailing behind her and became more visibly relaxed when alone with him.

Though she had also become more distracting to the young knight. Everyone knew the princess was beautiful but Link still hadn’t gotten used to it even after all this time. Every morning he would face that same beauty and every morning he would be thoroughly flatfooted at the sight of her. It was easier when she forced him to watch far away, when she spoke to and about him with a quiet disdain. She didn’t like him and he was just here to do his job. Nice, done and easy.

But lately the princess had been asking him to stay close regardless if they were traveling through the countryside or to the frigid Rito Village or the blazing furnace that was Death Mountain. She smiled often now, especially when she found a new plant or animal about. Link would be standing, vigilante when the princess would call for him and when he whirled around, sword at the ready, he found not monsters but the sight of the princess mid-smile and holding out some new thing for him to see, excitement twinkling in her eyes.

It was getting really hard to focus on his task.

“Link, are you alright?”

Link flushed, nearly tripping over himself as the princess broke him from his stupor.

They were sitting at peaceful meadow not too far the castle, the princess’s notebook at her side filled with her various observations and musings.

Link must’ve spaced out because he had not noticed the princess approach him, her face inches away from his.

“I am sorry.” She apologized “I did not mean to startle you.”

Link shook his head in disagreement, raising a hand to tell her not to worry.

“I-if you don’t feel comfortable answering my questions, you do not have to.”

Link gestured for her to continue.

“Link” the princess composed herself “Why don’t you speak?”

Link was caught off guard by the question. No one really questioned why he chose not to speak. Most assumed it was some strange choice by some stranger lad from the country. Or perhaps he could not speak. As long as he stabbed the bad guy, no one seemed to care beyond that and the more renown he gained, the more Link felt he needed to maintain the illusion, the stoic unflappable hero of Hyrule.

Well, until the real hero of Hyrule appeared.

Link mused for a moment, wondering how to best explain his situation to the princess.

“I’m sorry.”

Link was taken aback by the princess’s shameful tone.

“I….I did not mean to be so personal.” She began, eyes cast away from him “It….it just occurs to me I have known you for a few months now and yet I have never once heard you speak. I know I have not been most friendly person to you and I understand if you find me rude or perhaps annoying. I know watching me wade through the fields is not the most effective use of your talents.”

Link could feel panic setting in. He couldn’t let the princess blame herself! Especially now that she was making an effort to open up to him. Link licked his lips, willing the words to form into existence.

“I am sorry Link” Link’s heart fluttered at the sound of his name. She said his name! She said his name! She’s never said his name to him before!

“Perhaps I should just remain silent.” the princess went on “I am truly sorry for mistreating you and taking my frustration about my father out on you. You did not deserve that.”

Wait! No no no no!

The princess sighed dejectedly, turning away from Link.

Link bit his lip, taking deep slow breathes as he tried to form the words in his head.

-----

Zelda was disappointed but not surprised by Link’s lack of a response. She knew it might’ve been a little too late given her treatment of him but she had been hoping perhaps she could convince him that she was not as nasty as she appeared to him. Alas, it seems it was for naught.

“W-wait.”

Zelda blinked, unsure if she really heard what she thought she heard. She turned slowly to Link, surprised to see him with a hand outstretched, sweat forming upon his brow as he awkwardly moved his mouth as if trying to get it to work.

“D-did you say something Link?” She asked quizzically.

Link gave a short nod.

Zelda whirled around, knees against the grass as she leaned in closer, unable to get Link’s voice out of her ears.

Link gestured to himself, touching his chest with an open hand.

“You.”

Link nodded, wincing as he struggled to speak.

“I. Don’t. Like. Talking.”

Zelda was in awe at Link. For a warrior so fierce, so steely, so loyal his voice was soft. It was gentle and quiet like a breeze yet still lingered in her mind.

“You don’t like talking” Zelda repeated “I understand.”

Link nodded once before breaking into a toothy smile.

Zelda’s heart raced at the sight of the indifferent Link forming a full smile on his face. She pulled back, trying to will the red out of her hair.

Link tilted his head curiously towards Zelda before he closed the distance.

Zelda’s heart thundered in her ears as Link placed a cool hand upon her forehead, his face returning to its stony indifference but his eyes filled with worry.

“I’m fine!” Zelda waved him off, pulling away before she turned any redder “I...just thought of something.”

Link looked unconvinced but let it go. He stood to his feet and offered his hand to the princess.

Zelda stared up, the sun glowing brightly behind Link’s form as he waited patiently for her. She took his hand and he, firmly but gently, pulled her to her feet.

Link gestured to her horse.

“Yes.” Zelda nodded in agreement “Perhaps it is time to go home.”

Link gave a thumbs up and went to retrieve their horses.

Zelda pinched her cheeks with all her might.

“Urbosa was right. He is handsome.”

[writerman]

Holiday In The Sun

This is a birthday gift for the wonderful @neonelysium He is one of my favourite artists in the world and gosh darn wonderful friend.

So, just for him I wrote a SidLink to celebrate them being another year older!

This will also be going up on my AO3 later.

Word count: 1,595. Ship: Sidon x Link

Summary: Sidon and Link need a vacation away from their respective lives and where better than Lurelin Village?!

-------

After the Divine Beast induced rainfall in the Zora domain, Sidon most definitely wished for the sunnier climes of Lurelin village, and so when he suggested it to Link on his flyby visit it was agreed they would go there on a short holiday to get away from their responsibilities. 

They would meet at the village when Link was free of whatever quest he had to embark upon, something small he had promised and Sidon believed him though he would offer him some leeway. Sidon was well aware of Link’s penchant for wandering Hyrule with no clear destination- and for a spell, he wondered how to help him rid the hero of such a thing trait, but it became clear this was how he decompressed and Sidon thought nothing more of it and was alarmed he had wanted to change something about the Hylian at all. 

It wasn't difficult for Sidon to travel to the coastal village, he merely followed the coastline enjoying the sea waters as he did so. He had decided to leave home a day late allowing Link to catch up should his quest have taken more time than he initially anticipated and giving more of an allowance for the wanderer to wander. 

But when he reached the entrance of the village Link was already standing there holding a drink in a coconut looking a tad sunburnt. It was clear he had gotten there early and had likely ended up helping out the village with some tasks.

No matter the place, Link was always on hand to help someone with their plight no matter how big or how small. That was what Sidon adored about the diminutive hero, but he also knew that the man stretched himself thin and the trip was supposed to help Link gather himself up again.

Any admonishments that Sidon had hoped to voice fled though when Link spotted him and gifted the Zora with a bright smile as he set aside his drink, and all but ran to Sidon throwing his arms around him in an embrace. 

They stood in the embrace for a long moment before Link pulled away to speak. 

You are the one that is late this time! The smug look he gave Sidon was enough to have him laugh aloud. Did you lose track of time? They both knew he hadn’t but they liked to play this harmless game it eased the ache that formed when they spent so much time apart. 

“I must have forgotten the date we set. My apologies, my love.” Sidon offered a flourishing bow and Link gave forth silent laughter at the sight of it. They made quite a pair in appearance and personality, an odd couple most would say but they made each other happy and it was really no one else’s business. 

The sky was already darkening when Link led him down to the beach. A fire had been built but not lit and a large tent had been erected further back on the beach situated far enough away from the shore that they would not be victims of the tides changing. The tent was a nest of pillows and soft blankets with a single ornate lamp hanging above them offering a soft golden glow. 

Everything seemed incredibly romantic and Sidon felt any stress melt away with the sound of the sea softly lapping at the shore and muted calls of sea birds as they nested for the night. The silks and blankets had been gifted to Link by the Gerudo chief for helping with their own Divine Beast problem, along with a myriad of other rewards, but nothing as exquisite as the brilliantly dyed fabrics that hung over every inch of their sleeping quarters for the next 3 days.

While Sidon stood appreciating the interior, Link was rolling up the entrance of the tent after having lit a fire, leaving them the perfect view of the sea and the stars above. It would soon be dark enough that the two would merge and they would be sat gazing into a galaxy with the calming sound of the sea to ease their frantic minds. 

How long had it been since either of them had felt peace like this?

A small hand on his side brought Sidon back to the present and Link pointed to the lamp and motioned for him to douse the flame within for him. Doing as he was told Sidon lifted a hand to the lamp and smothered the flame with his forefinger and thumb. 

It left them with the orange light of the fire only and the feeling as though they were the only two in the world. The darkness of the night seeped in around them in a velvety embrace that lulled Sidon into a comfortable state and he sat at the mouth of the tent feet buried in the sand alongside Link who had already gotten comfortable not moments before him. 

When these nights came while I wandered I would feel so alone. I am so small in a world so big it was hard to not feel so inconsequential, Link began though he seemed hesitant as he signed out his words. Rather than try to put him at ease Sidon waited to see what else was on the blond’s mind. 

For a second Link seemed unwilling to continue and the pink of the sunburn on his cheeks deepened as a blush spread over his face. But whatever had kept him from continuing must have passed because he lifted his hands again. 

Before I met you I was afraid of the sky. We know almost nothing of what is beyond the stars and that unknowing scared me. Then I met you, He paused to look up at Sidon with a soft and adoring smile, his eyes sparkling in the firelight, it is hard to be afraid of being so small when someone so big loves me. The sky is so big but it loves the stars… knowing that we are the same makes it easier to live beneath them. 

What I am trying to say is… I love you and you make me feel better about the world. When I am tired you are the energy I need to carry on. Did… that come out weird? Link hid his face for a moment to hide an awkward laugh. 

To save him from more embarrassment Sidon looked away for a moment and focussed on the way Link wiggled his toes in the golden sands around them as though trying to ground himself. He was so small and yet so strong- the warrior’s spirit inside Link was bigger than him bigger than the tallest peak of Death Mountain. 

“I love you too, Link. A heaven burden has been put on your shoulders and it is ok to be afraid of what is to come. It's ok to be afraid of the unknown- we are not born fearless and we are not born afraid we learn these things as we grow. You have done what no other has done before, it would be remiss of anyone to think you are not lonely.”

I’m not lonely. Not when I have you. 

Sidon waved away those words and shook his head. When Link dropped his hands to rest in his lap Sidon curled his fingers around one of them and gave it a comforting squeeze but did not let go after. 

“That isn’t what I meant. But for now, it doesn’t matter- we came to enjoy this time together and to relax. Let us enjoy the night together and in the morning maybe the world won’t seem so big.” The sun would come up and Link would scarcely recall his words from that night so wrapped up he would be in swimming and eating and drinking with Sidon. 

This would be the only holiday they would get for a long time and Sidon was adamant that Link was going to savour it and have as much fun as possible before they both had to return to their regular lives. 

Is this the part where you have your way with me? Link snickered at his own words but let out a silent cry of surprise when Sidon pushed him back into the nest of pillows. He pressed his forehead to Link’s and closed his eyes enjoying their closeness for a moment before he moved to press a soft kiss to Link’s lips. 

“It’s a holiday for both of us, we can do whatever you like.”

Oh, then yes, I want that and I also want grilled fish. As he said this his stomach growled and Sidon let out a loud laugh and he sat back allowing Link space to sit up. I didn’t eat anything today I was waiting for you to get here. 

And so they spent their evening in the shallows of the sea catching fish and grilling them on the open fire and enjoying the warm breeze that drifted from inland never unaware of the storm that gathered that would leave them particular washed out for the next few days. 

Ah, but there would be another time for a holiday when Hyrule knew true peace again when Zelda was freed, the darkness gone and no epic quest for Link to lose his days to. 

When that day came Sidon would feel the contentment of not only his soul but Mipha’s too. 

Until then he would remain at Link’s side as best he could to ensure the hero would see those sunny days again. 

[botwstoriesandsuch]

At Bay (again)

Idk if its just me, but the formatting for the At Bay one shot is really screwed up for me. Like there are large chunks of just plain space, and the read more line covers up the whole thing. Plus the text is overlapping each other???? So, I’m just gonna post it in a regular text thing also, just in case. If the other post is working fine for you, great! But I’m just doing this too just in case it’s screwed up for anyone else. So yeah, here is me, doing that

Anon:  Hi! I don't know if you ship it (if not, feel free to ignore), but could you do something with Link x Mipha? Thanks!!

Ok so, I was going to write a nice fluffy confession scene with Link and Mipha, but that just got my wheels turning about how Mipha crafted the armour. And that turned into how I thought she got the materials she need to make it. And that turned into a cool flashback scene, and that turned into me wanting to make Mipha bad ass... and that turned into me wanting to give her compelling character growth. Ok I’m basically saying that this whole oneshot is about Mipha. It’s still based on the Mipha/Link ship, buuuut this is just a long winded way of me saying Link isn’t really in this one. So...sorry? Maybe in the future I’ll finish the fluffy confession scene, but for now, enjoy this! (Cause I really love how it turned out)

At Bay

Miphlink 5459 words

Just as the sun was swallowed by the sea, she rose to watch the horizon. The last few rays of light shimmered like amber on the cool waters of Lanayru Bay. In a few moments, the whole ocean would be washed by the cold of night. Waves crashed against the ragged rocks, the white foam pooling near her ankles. The princess’ eyes were fixed on the sky, the sea breeze nipped at her face, causing her fins and jewelry to sway. It was a cloudless night, the stars seemed to twinkle restlessly in the air. The moon was nowhere to be seen, the bay only reflected the silent stars, and the flickering orange light from behind her. The sergeant probed the campfire with a stick, fiddling with the charred wood. Kneeling by its warmth, he looked up at her. “Your Highness, you need not sit so close to the shore. We don’t know what kind of monsters lurk in the sea at this hour.” Mipha turned her head back at him, a wry smile on her lips. “Don’t worry yourself, Seggin. I am quite skilled with my trident thanks to your teachings.” She patted her weapon that lay beside her, its metal clinked against the rocks at her touch. “Besides,” she returned her gaze to the sky. The summit of the snowy mountain divided the eventide with its presence. It seemed to rise beyond the heavens. “We should hope that one particular beast appears tonight.”

Rising himself from the campfire, Sergeant Seggin walked and stood beside Mipha, who was crouched on the damp rocks. The towering figure of Mount Lanayru cloaked the bay, along with the surrounding trees, in a soft shadow. The evergreens rustled, and the familiar smell of the sea was carried through the air. A collection of loose pebbles crawled across the shore from the forces of water and wind. Shifting her bare feet, she could feel the smooth and rounded stones under her.

It was not four hours ago, when Mipha and Seggin had swam through the Rutala River, and hiked across the Brynna Plains to get to their current point. While her father had known the true purpose of her trip, she had only told the Sergeant only the bare details necessary in order to get him to come. Afterall, a princess would never be allowed to do this all alone. Seggin set the hilt of his own spear against the ground, leaning his weight against it. He gazed at the sky along with her, although he was unsure of exactly what he should be looking for. “So this beast...er...spirit? Whatever you called it? You say you are not certain it will appear? How long should we expect to stay until we can reach a conclusive answer?”

Mipha’s eyes stayed fixed on the sky, searching for something that would complete the serene picture. “It is the spiritual form of a great goddess. If she should appear at all, it would help give confirmation...or more like a blessing, to a certain decision I must make.” The beauty of the night was laid out before them, but still, something was missing. After a beat she continued, “I should hope she should appear sometime tonight. They say she only rises just as the sun sets. However, if nothing changes by sunrise, we can return to the Domain immediately. I know you are always anxious about my wellbeing.” Mipha cast him another smile. That much was true, despite teaching her combat, the Sergeant, along with most of the royal staff, was always eager to have the princess safe in their company. Nonetheless, Seggin cocked a curious eyebrow. “Forgive me if it is not my place to pry, but the decision you speak of, what might it be?”

A silence fell once again. Telling him the full story would bring about a conversation she was not yet ready to have. She sighed. “I must...I wish to craft something.”

“Oh?”

“Yes...something very important to me.” Mipha looked at the ground, watching the foaming waves encircle her feet. “So, I must get a certain material from this spirit. Although, should she not appear, I shall take it as a sign that I must not pull through this...certain decision.”

Seggin narrowed his eyes. Though their dark complexion had often reflected the blur of war, he was still able to give a soft and kind gaze towards her. “For the sake of this decision, do you wish for this beast to appear?”

In the waters, Mipha watched her reflection. Her topaz eyes stared back at her, before being taken away by the tide.

“Yes.”

A silence returned once more between them. The crashing waves and whistling wind decorated the hours, with Seggin occasionally going back to feed the fire. The night continued to the point where both of the Zoras had leaned their tired weight against the large grey boulders across the rocky beach. The looming figure of Mount Lanayru continued, its shadow stretched across the bay. Mipha let out a sigh. One way or another, this night would decide her fate. And through the dark, she would see what the goddesses and spirits had planned for her future.

. . . . .

The hours merged, and the stars drifted across the skies. Seggin had offered to stay up and keep watch, but after about three hours, he too let his heavy eyelids droop. Mipha continued to stare at the sky, leaning her head against the large boulder.

Thoughts swirled around in her head. Perhaps she would not show up at all, it’s said that only those of pure intention and honest hearts would ever be graced with the presence of such a spirit. Mipha fiddled with her bracelet, trying to keep herself awake. Maybe this was selfish of her, forgoing the Zora monarchy for the sake of love. Sure, her father had told her to follow her heart, but what about everyone else? Even if they were to be together, there would always be a stigma, for an interspecies couple. Would the other Zora hate her? For choosing a Hylian over her own people? What kind of queen could lead a people that despised her.

Mipha sighed.

If the goddesses decide that we are not meant to be, then I guess I’ll just have to accept that I was not the one meant to bring him happiness...

She closed her eyes, escaping to happier memories, trying to keep the anxieties at bay. Everything may be stacked against her, but she was going to try anyway, for the sake of the warm feeling in her stomach. For the chance to look at his kind blue eyes for the rest of her life. For her restless soul that longed to hold him through every tender and terrible moment.

Mipha could already picture him, wearing the armour along with a rare and fantastic smile. Link’s sky blue eyes would sparkle along with the silver scale that Mipha herself would place. He’d be adorned with the helm and greaves, that would allow him to be by her side through the calmest and roughest of oceans and waterfalls. And the chest piece, the true symbol of a Zora princess’ love, would fit him perfectly. Yes, a perfect embrace that would protect him wherever their travels may take them. A soft smile crept onto Mipha’s face.

She sighed again. The prickling of heartache seemed to run all throughout her body, from her feet to her fins. All of the sudden, the smile slipped off of her face. Mipha held up her arm, examining her fin. It had glossy sheen, melding from a warm, honey color to a more striking lapis accent. It was thin, as all fins were, for the sake of cutting swiftly and speedily through the waters. Despite this, it dangled motionless, even her jewelry hung still, barely swaying from the movement of her arm.

Wasn’t the wind so much stronger a minute ago?

Indeed, the breeze abruptly had calmed, and her fin no longer flapped in the wind. Something was off, a cold charge seemed to ripple in the air. A new energy coarsed through Mipha’s body as she once again looked out towards the waters. At the end of the Lanayru Bay, closer to the rocky mainland, the waves had started to recede. Their once strong and lively motions now summoned towards something at the innermost part of the bay.

Mipha lifted her back off of the boulder, sitting up straight and observing the scene. And as if reacting to her movements, a sudden silence drowned the shore.

The winds stopped.

Then shifted.

Then rose.

A freezing air was washed over her, a strange hum filled bay. Getting on her feet, Mipha took up her trident cautiously. She searched the waters for whatever had moved the wind so suddenly. Perhaps a large octorok? A stray ice lizalfo cooling the breeze? She moved Seggin’s leg with the end of her trident. “Seggin, wake up. Something’s happening.” He let out a groan, mumbling something about never sleeping on duty. The princess turned towards the forest, scanning the trees for the snoring hinox that had made the evergreens shiver in the new wind. Or the frost talus that had made the temperature drop so quickly, she could start to see the breath in front of her face. But, there was nothing, and she turned back towards the sea, where the waves had started to move with new life. Mipha looked up.

Suddenly, she gasped. The sound was as swift as a common breeze, but with the sentiment of a last breath. All words escaped her, as it pierced the heavens. It seemed to wear a crown of frost and ice, but its brilliant size and majesty alone would command the attention of any army. The waves reflected its silver and arctic glow. The winds rose, the waves began to roar, the stars settled, and the sky was complete.

“She’s here.”

Naydra, the spirit of ice, the being of wisdom, the sacred servant of the goddesses, moved through the air, lowering itself from the glittering skies and moving towards the waters below. Even in the distance, the dragon’s golden eyes seemed to stare into her soul.

Mipha started to run towards the sea.

Seggin, who was jolted fully awake by her sudden movement, got onto his feet. “P-princess!?” Then, upon seeing the icy glow of a dragon in the distance, he stopped. A fear and silence gripped his throat, halting any attempts he made to move or speak. Still running towards the waters, Mipha turned back and shouted, “Just follow me! There’s no time to waste!”

Racing on top of a large rock, she crouched, then launched her weight and momentum towards the sky. Performing a graceful flip, she dove headfirst into the waters. The ocean enveloped her in a familiar cool embrace. Then, Mipha broke her head above the surface and started to make her way towards the dragon, kicking and swimming with all her might.

Naydra was closing in, drifting closer to Mipha with every passing moment. The way her long body steadily arched and curved, you would think they were going through nothing more than a leisurely stroll. Yet in reality, the dragon had traveled the length of one fourth of the bay in only a few minutes.  

Rapidly approaching her, Mipha could start to see the dragon’s reflection upon the water. It’s scales glowed like moonlight, emitting luminous blues and turquoise. The path of its flight was directly above the length of the bay, making its way towards the princess.

Mipha faced the spirit head on, checking the trident to make sure it was secure on her back. Then, she dove with incredible speed, letting the waters consume her.

The porgys hurried away, finding refuge in the nooks and crannies of the reef. The small, red, bioluminescent scales on her head glowed as she neared the dark depths of the sea. Then, Mipha channeled her built up momentum and forced herself back towards the surface, rising like a bird.

The water and droplets sprayed as she leaped, the freezing water dripping away as she was greeted by the cold air once more. At the arc of her breach, she quickly turned and faced upward. Mipha unhooked the Lightscale Trident. Aiming at the white scales that lined Naydra’s neck, she steadied her grip.

Naydra is here, which means there is still hope. Please, grant me your blessing.  

She thrust with all her might. The trident soared across the sky, twirling and shining like a star. The dragon drifted slowly, its eyes seemed to wander towards the flash of movement, observing the streak of white.

Crashing back into the bay with a splash, Mipha quickly blinked away the water and watched the trident's arc. It had reached the apex of its flight, nearly parallel with the dragon’s body.

At any moment it would make contact, it would pry a scale off, she just knew it...

...but then, its speed faltered, its momentum weakened, and slowly, the trident arched back down towards the sea, having struck nothing.

NO!

Naydra continued on her path, and the Lightscale Trident crashed into the open waters without a sound. The dragon was simply too high up, no spectacular dive, leap, or throw from these waters could get her where she needed to be.

Suddenly, Seggin breached the surface beside her. A swirl of worry and determination filled his eyes. “What are you doing?! Surely you don’t mean to kill it in order to get the material you need?”

“I-I need her scales, but she’s too high up! And my trident, it-it’s…” Mipha looked behind her, across the width of the bay to where it had sunk. That far out… the seafloor was probably much deeper over there. No, there was no time. She turned back towards him, almost frantic. “Seggin, you're a great swimmer, and you’ve taught me all I know, surely if you try you can strike the spirit, yes?”

Looking up at the beast, the Sergeant simply shook his head. “I’m sorry, your highness, but from these open waters, and at that angle? I’m afraid the Zora are not gifted with flight.”

Naydra’s presence drifted above them, the brilliant gleam of her scales now shone with a silent mocking. Was this really it? The spirits had decided to come, just to ridicule her desires? Just to tell her that it wasn’t meant to be?

Mipha let out a shaky breath. Watching the length of the dragon move across the night, she observed its path of flight once more. She let out another breath, more controlled this time. Naydra’s blue glow reminded Mipha of his eyes, and she found her resolve once more. Seggin watched her in silence for a moment. Then, he attempted to speak.

“Princess, if this is for—”

“Give me your spear.”

“P-pardon?”

“We can get my trident later, give me the spear.”

The Sergeant complied, removing his silver spear and handing it to her, but he shook his head.

“Mipha, you need to stop and focus. Neither of us have the strength to throw it that far up—”

“Talk and swim, Sergeant! Follow closely, we have to catch up.”

With that, Mipha began her journey down the course of the bay, following under the dragon’s shadow. Seggin followed on her left, but his face was still filled with worry and confusion. He attempted to open his mouth again, before Mipha held up a hand to shush him.

She spoke bluntly. “You have a strong grip, right Sergeant? You are capable of throwing many times your own weight, correct?”

The Sergeant frowned. Of course he could, he had handled great swords and claymores through the tides of several battles. When sparring with others, he could shove them aside easily. He wasn’t given the nickname “The Demon” for nothing. Mipha, whom he had personally trained with the trident, should know this most of all. Unless, she specifically wanted him to...

“Are you saying I should—”

“Yes. So can you do it?”

He hardened his gaze. “Even if I did get you to a proper height, your own aim must be more than perfect, and the aerodynamics of my spear are different. I’m sorry to be harsh, but I don’t think you can make such a precise shot on your first try.”

“That’s why I’m not going to throw it this time,” Mipha replied, her eyes still fixed on the dragon in front of them. “You told me to focus, right? Well focus on her,” she nodded towards Naydra, “The path of her flight is nearing the base of Mount Lanayru. No doubt, she will eventually make her way up towards its peak, as the keeper of the Spring of Wisdom. However, she has slowly been angling herself closer to the waters ever since she first arrived. While I’m not entirely knowledgeable on how dragons fly, I can only assume that before they can rise to such a height, they must lower and dive themselves to build up energy, similar to how we dive and leap out of the sea. I can only hope she will be low enough for my plan.” The princess turned her gaze to him directly.

“You will launch me in mid-air where the bay meets the ocean, just near the base of Mount Lanayru. There, with that added height, Naydra should be close enough to meet head on, and I shall loosen her scales myself with a direct strike from this spear”

Seggin could only gawk at her, staring in a shocked silence. His dark scales blended with the night. Then, after he seemed to process the full extent of her words in his head, his eyes gleamed, curiously. “You truly believe this shall work?”

Mipha turned her gaze back towards the bay, her topaz eyes brimmed with new fire and life. “We won’t know until we try.”

The two of them focused their attention towards the ocean, now putting all their energy into getting to the end of the bay as fast as possible. Mipha snuck a glance up at the dragon, they were catching up. They were now below her front talons, the ice emitting from their scales started to cool on the edges of her jewelry. The princess smiled.

I’m not giving up on Link just yet.

Finally, they approached the mouth of the bay. The shadow of Naydra’s crown spilled over their tiny figures. Seggin turned towards the princess. “This is it, are you ready?” Mipha looked up at the sky. The dragon’s snout was pointed towards the sea. She had thought correctly, it was much lower than before. However, they were barely ahead of the dragon, for no Zora could keep up with its legendary speed forever. It was now or never.

She checked the spear on her back, making sure the clasp was secure. Mipha gave a nod towards Seggin, and they both plunged into the sea.

They dove in perfect unison. Colorful arrays of fish hurried away at their presence. The glow of Naydra seeped through the waters, a murky light that cut through the inky darkness. Seggin allowed himself to move in front of Mipha. They continued their dive through the waters, their bioluminescent scales leaving a blur of soft reds and turquoise. Suddenly, Seggin shot up, shifting his momentum towards the surface. Mipha followed suit behind him. Her heart was pounding in her chest, ready to burst at any moment. Trailing his stream of bubbles, Mipha watched as the Sergeant breached the surface above her. Just a few more seconds, and he would be at the apex of his arc, and then—

Mipha shot up like a cannon, spraying water through the air. She didn’t have time to enjoy the sensation, as she reached out instinctively. Her arm and hand extended, grabbing at something unseen. Water was still in her eyes, but the cold force of air pushed them away. Then, she felt it, the slight warmth of another Zora, and latched on. With an iron grip, she closed her hand around the blur of black scales. The two of them locked forearms, and in midair, Seggin flung her momentum further into the sky.

The frost was now biting, it formed distinctive lines that danced and crept the length of her jewelry. Taking the spear from her back, Mipha looked up, still soaring through the air. She was met with a golden gaze.

Naydra had started to crane its neck skyward, its crown reflecting the winking stars. The ice spirit seemed to sigh, and another breath of cold air escaped her. The creature’s eyes were as large as the sun, specks of amethyst and pearl decorated the beast’s face. Mipha didn’t dare to breathe.

The spiritual form of the goddess shifted its golden eyes, and smiled upon her.

Reaching the peak of her arc, Mipha turned her attention back to the spirit’s scales. They gleamed white, and sparkled like stars. They were so close, just a few more moments, just another instant, and she could reach out and touch them. Readying her spear, she started to turn her body, spinning through the air. She laughed to herself, about the unimaginable situation she was in.

With a practiced and graceful spin, Mipha let out the last of her momentum in a swift slice of her spear.

At first, it seemed she had cut at nothing air…

Then, she felt it make contact.

The scales were as tough as metal, but smooth like a polished stone. The spin of her attack has struck perfectly on the underside, and pried a large scale from the dragon. This time, her laugh fully escaped her, echoing in the air. The scale plummeted through the night sky, leaving a glimmering trail like a shooting star. It crashed into the sea, but floated in the water, which perfectly reflected the dragon's glow. Seeing Seggin start to make his way towards the scale, Mipha turned back towards the dragon, still falling through the air. Naydra was now ascending at a steep incline, all of its body seemed to glow with a new aura, as if sensing the loss of one of its sacred scales. Mipha smiled at the spirit.

Thank you…

Then, she turned back, and prepared to dive safely into the water

A large splash, and the princess returned to the bay once more. Breaching the surface, she let out large breaths, and rubbed at the cold biting on her wrist.

Seggin made his way towards her, the large scale cradled in his arms. His mouth hung agape, he was at a loss for words. Mipha took the initiative to break the silence. “Here, your spear.”

Holding it out, Seggin took it with one of his arms, still careful to keep the scale from drifting away. The Sergeant let out a short laugh. “Your highness, that incredible move you performed, that spin attack? Wherever did you learn such a thing? It certainly wasn’t from me.”

A sudden blush formed on her face. Sinking into the water to hide it, she let out a little whisper. “Well, uh, just from a friend.”

He nodded, “Well, it certainly got the job done.”

Quickly changing the conversation, Mipha asked, “May I hold it?” Seggin gave another nod, and pushed the scale across the water, making its way into Mipha’s grasp. The scale was cool to the touch. Running her hand down it, it was slick in one direction, but brushing it the opposite way revealed tinier bumps in the scale. They glowed white, but reflected a large assortment of bright colors at certain angles. Mipha smiled, it was perfect.

Seggin let out a forced cough, breaking through Mipha’s thoughts. She smiled. “Right, come now. Let us return to the shore”

. . . . .

“So...you did it.”

Back at the shore, the sun had begun to rise, barely peeking above the ocean in the east. Seggin cast Mipha a warm smile. “I’m quite proud of what you’ve done today.” She returned his expression with a kind smile of her own. “I couldn’t have done this without you Seggin.”

She then went back to cleaning her Lightscale Trident. A few bits of seaweed were still tangled in its prongs, and wrapped around the hilt. Otherwise, it was mostly intact. The Sergeant gathered the last of the food and supplies littered about their campsite, before looking back at Mipha. He watched her tend to her weapon, sitting comfortably on the ground, with a small pile of seaweed at her side.

Finally, he decided this was as good a moment as any. Seggin sat in the grass with her. “So, who is the lucky guy?”

A sudden rush of red appeared on Mipha’s cheeks. “I, uh, I’m not sure I understa—”

He let out a scoff. “I suppose you picked me to accompany you since I didn’t pay the most attention to spiritual and ceremonial studies.” He shrugged his shoulder, “Which is entirely fair. A sergeant doesn’t improve his skills by listening to hour long sermons about the goddess all day.”

Seeing Mipha’s confused face, he let out a huff and continued. “Although, even I know about the tradition of the white scale. You said you wished to craft something...when the dragon showed up... well, I’m no fool.”

He looked at her, Mipha’s shoulder’s loosened in realization that he knew. “You’re crafting the sacred ceremonial armour for a royal husband, requiring a silver scale that only females posses, and the scales of a dragon, for both bless the wearer with the safety of both a Zora’s affection and the protection from the goddesses.”

Mipha sighed, before letting herself look at him. “Please know I didn’t mean any harm keeping this from you! I never thought you were a fool, I simply… well I respect you as my teacher and such… so I thought…um… it would be better I didn’t say anything...cause it would be better if…”

“If I stayed silent and didn’t ask questions about why we were battling a giant ice spirit?”

Mipha let out a sheepish laugh. “I suppose…”

He scrunched his brows. “Although, I am still confused as to why you were so wary about telling me, princess. Are you embarrassed by him? Is he a noble? A servant?” Seggin scratched his chin.

“..hmm, or perhaps this Zora isn’t a him at all. Unconventional, sure, but having two queens wouldn’t be a real issue, at least for me. If that was your concern, please know—”

“No, no! I mean, thank you, but it’s not that… it’s…” Mipha let out a shaky breath, “I wish to give the armour to that knight, Link”

His expression seemed to instantly harden at his name

“That...Hylian? The one set to become a Champion simply because of that sword on his back?”

“Yes, I mean, I’ve known him since childhood and—”

“The one who put you in harm's way when you both fought the Ploymus Mountain Lynel alone?”

“He slayed the beast and helped people! And I was there of my own volition.”

“The one who refuses to talk? Choosing to speak with his hands? Has the blank stare and shows no emotion or respect?”

“Well, he’s not—”

“The one who is supposedly going to spend his company with Princess Zelda everyday after the official Champion ceremony in a few weeks? That’s the boy you wish to be committed to?”

Mipha didn’t bother to answer. She turned her head away, not looking at him. This is exactly what she was afraid would happen. She clenched her fist, nails digging into her palm.

A silence sat between them. Seggin just stared at the bay.

Then, Mipha took a deep breath, before standing up. Taking her trident, she slammed the hilt down with a force that demanded Seggin’s attention.

“Alright, yes! Link might be some of the things you say he is, but he is so much more. So, so, so much more. You may look at him and just see another Hylian, but I have watched Link all of my life. I’ve seen the strength and will that rests behind his blade when he protects the innocent. I’ve witnessed the tenderness of his touch when he comforts those around him in his embrace. Oh Hylia, I’ve watched his recklessness as he explores the world and the Domain with not a care in the world, other than satisfying a curiosity. I’ve seen every scratch and bruises he’s taken from his childhood, and healed every scar and burn from his youth. But I have loved him all the same, because even after all these years, in his eyes is the same love and adoration that he saved for me and me alone. He holds a blank gaze for the sake of keeping up a careful confidence, but every time I see him he graces me with a fantastic smile. I’ve fallen in love, Seggin, alright? And despite my endless respect for you and everyone else, I do not care anymore. I’ve fallen in love with a reckless Hylian, despite the world around me. Despite my every duty as the heir to the throne, despite Link’s every fault, despite it all I’m going to choose to give in to my heart’s desires. I have healed his every wound, and taken his every flaw, because he is who I fell in love with, and my heart belongs to him.”

Mipha stared into Seggin’s eyes, her topaz eyes were filled with the same fire and life as she had back under Naydra’s shadow. The Sergeant’s dark eyes looked back at her. He got onto his feet, a hard expression on his face. Yet, his eyes twinkled with a new warmth.

“Then we best get a move on, and hurry back so you may give him your important gift.”

Turning back towards the campfire, Seggin went to fetch his spear, and started to snuff out the campfire. Mipha just stood there, bewildered. She watched as he continued about his routine, gathering his satchel and gear without another word. The princess strode towards him, confused. “I’m sorry, I don’t understand. Are you still against my feelings for Link? Aren’t you still mad that I’ve chosen him?” The Sergeant stopped, and turned back to face her.

“In truth, Princess Mipha, I will never understand the true extent of how you have fallen in love with that Hylian. However, what I know for certain is that that boy is a strong and accomplished knight. My son, Bazz, used to spar with him when he was little. He’s become exceptionally stronger, and just studying his movements with the blade, well… Link has a strength not just in his sword, but in his compassion, with the way he taught my son and others as well. In his younger day I could see the kindness in his eyes as he ran around, protecting his other friends in their little sparring games.

“Although he has changed much in recent years, in my opinion not for the better, hearing your words sways me to the fact that perhaps that same young Hylian still lives when around you. So I trust your judgement, Mipha.” He tilted his head to the side.

“This night has brought the best out of you, it’s brought out a level of skill, precision, and talent that I have not seen throughout all my life. I can only conclude that this is the result of your compassion and determination to be with this Hylian. So I do not think anything I could say will sway such a strong heart.

“You obviously already have your father’s blessing, and not that you need mine, but I think that so long as Link gives you the same level of protection and love that you have displayed, then you have my support on the matter.”

Now, it was Mipha’s turn to stand in a shocked silence. Although, the quiet did not last long as she pulled him into a tight embrace. Unsure of what to do with his arms, Seggin patted her on the back, his more grumpy and serious demeanor returning.

“But, you should probably still not tell the others immediately. I can’t imagine people like Muzu will have the exact same view as I do.”

She chuckled, “That’s the plan.”

Letting him go, she turned back towards the bay. Picking up her trident, she started to make her way to the waters, ready to head back to the Domain, and complete a certain task. Craning her head back towards the Sergeant, she added, “and...thank you, Seggin. Truly, for everything tonight.”

He shrugged his shoulders.

“It was my pleasure.”

[slightlycrunchy]

Whumptober

Day 17: “Stay with me”

Y’all this is my first fic LITERALLY EVER. BE NICE. Second draft?? Who is she?? Editing? Never heard of her. I struggled. Enjoy.

LinkedUniverse AU

Words: 1435

Warnings: slight gore, emotional trauma

He was climbing.

He was awfully good at it after all, let alone it was something he enjoyed immensely. It made him feel alive. To feel his muscles move, stretch and tighten, almost exclusively from memory. One of the few memories he had seemed to have kept.

Akkala. His Hyrule.

He had just needed a moment. Just a little time to himself. They hadn’t been to Wild’s Hyrule in ages it seemed, and he had wanted to visit one of his favorite solitary haunts. Alone, he told them. “I won’t go far”, he had said. But he hadn’t told them where.

Too much of a chance they would follow.

The Citadel. He had a feeling he had had many memories here. He had been a knight after all, following his fathers footsteps. Or so a particular memory had told him. He chose to believe her.

These were his thoughts as he climbed, fingers stretching to the next hold, feet following closely behind in a sort of dance. His muscles burned, his scars stretching slightly uncomfortably as he extended the full length of his body over and over, sweat rushing like rivers down his shirtless frame.

The exertion felt incredible. The Links all shared a need for action when their emotions were especially tumultuous.

And Wilds were especially that. Tumultuous. But something more...they hurt him. Something mental, but affecting him physically all the same.

Coming back to his Hyrule put his head in a place it hadn’t been in months. Ever since he had met them, Wild didn’t think of himself. His friends, they were what mattered. This showed by how he cared for them. He fed them, knowing a hot meal could do wonders for an exhausted body and mind. He listened as they told their tales, offering a shoulder to lean on when needed....or even only wanted.

And when they needed more, much to Twilights dismay....he would die for them. He would come back after all, they wouldn’t.

And so the months had passed, his mind quite occupied in tending to his brothers.

He didn’t leave much time to think of himself.

That was, until they stumbled upon his Hyrule.

It always happened so smoothly, without so much as a sign until someone, usually the one to whom the world belonged, would speak the obvious change.

This time, that charge fell to Wild. But he didn’t get a chance to speak.

It was like lightning had struck him. But there was certainly no storm. Pain erupted from his head, blinding him, jerking his head back towards the heavens, his hands following to cradle his own shattering skull.

From the vibrations he felt rumbling from his chest and throat he was sure he was screaming. And loud at that. But he was lost somewhere else. Every memory he had gathered during his journey was flashing through his mind, with no space between. He wanted to shut his eyes, he didn’t want to see-

But you cannot hide from yourself.

Zelda, Mipha, Revali, Daruk, Urbosa...and then something else. People he didn’t recognize, places he hadn’t seen.

He saw himself, smiling, and the smile actually reaching his eyes this time...

“...ild...”

“...wild...”

“WILD!”

His eyes jerked open. He didn’t remember closing them.

His hands were still wrapped tightly around his own head, his face was wet with tears. His throat was raw and throbbing.

Twi looked down on him from somewhere above him, and he realized there was an arm behind his shoulders, supporting him, while his lower half was clearly on the rocky path they had been traveling. He didn’t remember falling either.

Twi slowly placed his remaining hand on Wild’s wrist, making slow circles on the inside of it, telling him without words to relax his arm. Wild complied, letting Twi gently remove it from his aching head.

“Breathe, cub.”

He took shallow, shaky breaths. In, out. In, out. This took more attention than he would have thought, because next he knew he felt another arm from his other side slide underneath his legs, while an exchange happened beneath his shoulders simultaneously.

Time then stood, effectively scooping Wild up in his arms as if he weighed little, his head lolling to rest on his chest beneath Times chin.

Wild groaned with the quick movement, not much sound escaping his aching throat, before he was lost to the blackness again.

He next awoke in a bed. The familiar sheets over and around parts of the bed revealed it to be a stable, which one he did not know. His head ached, but it was nothing compared to what it had been. And while his throat felt tight, the vague memory of what it had felt like helped him to see that obviously some time had passed; the pain was all but gone.

There was daylight streaming in from outside, which made him hope he hadn’t been out too long. He hated to be a burden. He was already feeling the guilt crawl into his bones.

He turned his head slowly to see Twi sitting in a chair, eyes absolutely transfixed on his own.

And as if Twi knew exactly what he was thinking about... “Two days.”

“Shit.”

While technically the word came out, it was nothing but a raspy whisper. And the quietness did NOT betray how it had felt, his throat screaming at him.

“Wild what was that?” Twi’s face twisted into a state of worry, something Wild sadly saw all too often when Twi looked at him.

He didn’t dare speak. He rose his hands to sign. My memories. I saw everything....and then some. I didn’t recognize all of it...

“You scared us to death cub...” As he trailed off he lowered his gaze to his own hands, grasped together with fumbling fingers. With which he then went to grab Wild’s closest appendage, enveloping his hand with his warm embrace. He returned his gaze to Wild’s icy blue eyes, and with it brought a hand up to cradle his slightly pale face.

“Don’t do it again.”

I won’t.

Knowing fully well that wasn’t really a promise he could keep.

~~~~~~~~~~~

And so, that brought him to now, 2 days after what could be called a confusing experience. The others had fussed over him for another day after he woke, even though he insisted he felt totally fine.

As fine as he could. ‘What was that’ was truly a loaded question, one which Wild was desperately trying to figure out himself. He knew he had neglected himself in the months leading up to now. He had pushed down any thoughts concerning himself, past or present.

He also hadn’t been in a physical place that required him to remember those things. There were different dangers in the others’ worlds. Ones that required all of his attention and mental space. And so he had reason to forget himself....right?

He had reached the top of the tower, lungs heaving from exertion. Palms red and all but bleeding. But this is what he needed. And he thought to himself it was serving it’s purpose, the pieces were falling together.

Their foray into his world brought everything he had been suppressing back. He should have known better. You cannot hide from yourself. But boy was he good at trying.

He didn’t know how much time had passed, but the sun was certainly going down. Having rested, he decided it was time to return.

He ran, full speed, air filling his lungs, blood pumping through his veins as his leg muscles pushed against the ground with all they had, until he reached the edge and jumped; free falling to the red dirt below.

In a practiced movement he pulled his paraglider from its place on his hip and soared through the sky. Goddess he loved this. He was pretty sure he always would. His thoughts turned inward as he sailed away from the tower toward the stable. The act of flying didn’t need much of his attention after all.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

He knew his cub didn’t want him following, but with a scare like he had given them 2 days prior, there’s no way he’d be left behind. Twi had animal instincts, you couldn’t tell him something wasn’t going on inside Wild. He knew.

And so when the boy told them what he was going to do, Twi gave him some distance and in his wolf state, followed.

It had been hours. Sitting in the Citadels shadow, watching his cub commit near death drops every fourth hold he found on the wall, all the while having the time of his life. Twi found a sort of contentment in it. Perhaps he would be alright after all.

The sun was going down. From far up the cliff he sees a small body launch itself, caution be damned, off the tower walls; paraglider following shortly afterward. He snickered as much as a wolf can to himself, and then began the trot back to the stables.

He had forgotten how much it rained here. Storm clouds were moving in, small flashes of light intertwined with swirling clouds. The grass beneath his feet suddenly whipped and waved with the wind, where minutes before it was still. He picked up the pace.

Seconds later, a crash such as he had never heard cracked through the air, pounding in his ears and shoving him to the ground. But he didn’t see a ribbon of light hit anywhere near him he thought to himself. Until instead, he raised his eyes, and a small body, his cub, was plummeting to the earth, smoke and fire accompanying him.

~~~~~~~~~~

Wild came out of his internal battle with his own mind only to realize what had happened in the atmosphere around him. He knows what his storms bring. He assesses himself. He has a small dagger on his hip, but other than that nothing else. Climbing with full gear on is treacherous and foolish. He looks around him again, sees the grass below him weave and whip as the storm winds blow in. He looks to the right and slightly behind as he scans the area.

“A dog?”, he says out loud to himself. “No...that’s Twi.” And as those words leave his tongue, he hears a crack louder than anything he thinks he’s ever heard. Simultaneously a pain like fire, forcing its way through his body, consumes him. Like a barbed liquid, poured through him, filling his lungs, his veins, his mind...

He knows he’s falling. The slits that are his eyes see the ground coming closer, and just barely discernible, a dark figure with it.

~~~~~~~~~~

He sees his body hit the ground. Hears a sickening crunch, and then silence.

Twilight transforms instantly, running to Wild’s side....what’s left of it.

Burned flesh, oozing skin, bodily fluids seeping from the cleft starting at his hip. The hilt of a dagger being what was left of the reason for the strike.

“Gods cub why didn’t you take it off?!”, he hissed under his breath. He lifted Wild’s head gently, closer to himself. Wild’s eyes were closed, his breathing ragged and shallow, his entire body still spasming. Twilight lifted a finger to the hollow of Wild’s neck, feeling for a pulse. It remained, but was entirely irregular.

Then the shaking started. He was trembling continuously before, but this was intense. It was shock, Twilight knew. He was not going to survive this. They were still far out from the stable, and moving him would do nothing but worsen his condition.

This was it.

The hand that wasn’t supporting his back made its way to Wild’s face, caressing his cheek as he stuttered for breath.

“Cub...? Cub...”, he trailed off, tears freely falling down his face, bringing his head to rest against Wild’s.

Wild’s eyes opened only just enough to consider them open, and when his eyes roamed and settled on Twilights, although not really seeing him due to his condition, Twi said the only thing that his mind would string together.

“Stay with me cub”.

And with a giant stuttering sigh, the life left his form.

[triforceangel13]

The Promise Ch. 4 (A SidLink Story)

Chapter 4: Let the Courting Begin

Living in the Domain was gong to be a tough one as far as Link was concerned. And that was just after being there for one night.

The room he had been granted to stay in was the first problem he had encountered just within a few short hours of being there.

It was lavish, large, and beautiful, though that wasn't the issue. Sure being in something this fancy made him feel a little uncomfortable as it wasn't what he was used to, but at the moment it hadn't bothered him.

The walls and floor were a greenish blue colored marble. An armoir sat in the corner for his clothes, which had been unpacked from his bags and hung up for him already by, he only supposed, those that had brought it in.

A large pool of crystal clear water sat along one wall of the room, fresh water trickling in room from the window above it.

He hadn't supposed that was the bath as he had found a bathroom with the proper accommodations for him.

There was one thing that was missing that he was rather confused on. Aside from the pool of water there was one thing missing that would have taken up the large empty space in the room, right in the very spot he stood.

A bed. There was no bed. Not even a couch for him to lay his head down on. It was something he would need to ask Sidon what to do about. Perhaps they had forgotten to put a bed in...or was it that Zoras didn't sleep in beds?

That evening he had made a makeshift bed out of all his clothes on the floor. It was hard to sleep and he woke up a little stiff but it was better than sleeping on just the hard floor. Though he knew he wouldn't be able to sleep on that every single night.

Now he sat in the dining hall, heavy bags under his eyes as he poked at the meal before him with his fork.

He had been served raw fish with a side of greens. He had eaten the greens but he wasn't really sure if he was able to stomach the raw meat.

He would need to request some things of Sidon. He was too apprehensive to ask the other Zoras there. He didn't know which ones he could trust.

He wanted to trust them all but with the feud that occurred it was hard to know who had something against him or not.

“Make way for the King,” came a boisterous voice suddenly causing Link to nearly jump out of his skin and drop his fork with a clatter.

The doors behind him opened, the Zora that had announced approached Link quick strides, a scowl present on his face. He grabbed Link's upper arm, tugging him up to his feet with ease. Zoras seemed to be much stronger or perhaps it was because he was a guard?

“You must show respect to our king and rise when he enters a room,” the Zora said annoyed. Well there was one that didn't like him.

“Hey, let me go,” Link snapped, tugging to get his arm out of the grip of the Zora. It was like a snake had wrapped around his arm.

“There will be none of that,” came Sidon's voice, settling at Link's other side. With a firm hand on the other Zora and a gentle one on Link he pried his hand off him. “No one is touch my guest and treat him in such a way.”

“Forgive me your majesty...” the Zora mumbled, bowing his head. “Forgive me as well Sir Link. My actions were uncalled for.”

Sidon dismissed him with a nod of his head, gently helping Link sit back down in his chair. He then pushed it in for him, a slight flush on Link's face.

“Very sorry for that. I thought my people would be better than that,” Sidon sighed, taking a seat next to Link and resting a napkin in his lap.

Link felt severely out of place. There Sidon sat with his large head piece on his head, a large blue sash as well as a cloak on his shoulders.

And here Link sat in one of his “best” blue tunics that looked like an old dish rag compared to what the king wore.

“Honestly I'm used to it,” he admitted. It wasn't that he had been treated badly against being a Hylian by Zoras. It was the fact that he had been an orphan that had never been adopted. He didn't deem it his fault. No one ever wanted him.

Just, thinking those things still stung. It had been the worse growing up but now it was just a small sting whenever he thought of it.

The small voice in the back of his head had him thinking about becoming part of Sidon's family and he felt a small bit of warmth run through him.

“How did you sleep? I know it must be different than what you are used to,” Sidon offered, not realizing yet that Link hadn't slept in a bed.

“I slept fine,” Link fibbed, avoiding eye contact with him. Just one look at Link's face Sidon knew he was lying. The heavy bags under his eyes, the paleness of his skin.

He hadn't slept.

“What is it Link? What can I do to make your sleeping quarters better? Was the room too cold? Too warm?” Sidon asked.

“I....” Link sighed. “There wasn't any bed. I had to sleep on my clothes.”

Sidon was silent a moment and then reached out across the table, taking his hand in his own. His smaller fingers disappeared in his large palms.

“Link...I am so sorry. I had completely forgotten you don't sleep in a pool of water like us. I will put in a word for them to get you a bed right away,” Sidon said. Link was surprised by how sincere and upset he was.  

“Sidon really, it's okay,” Link said to him.

Sidon shook his head. “No. You are my intended and if I am going to be doing this right I want to make your stay here as comfortable as possible. Now. Tell me if there is anything else that I can do for you. Anything at all?”

“Sidon really, there isn't anything else,” Link said, noting his hand was still buried in Sidon's. Though he didn't feel the need to pull his hands away.

The Zora king looked down at his barely touched food, letting Link's hands go as a frown had settled on his handsome face once more.

“No, it is not. I should have realized sooner that you do not eat things raw like we do here,” Sidon chastised himself. “Now you don't need to lie Link. We can cook it up for you or even make something different for you.”

Link bit his lip a little. “I really just have a hard time eating raw foods.”

Sidon didn't have to be told any more as a Zora came to them with a plate of food for Sidon. He took Link's plate and stood.

“If you would be so kind and cook this for me? Link is not able to ingest any raw foods,” Sidon said with a big smile.

“Of course my king. Right away,” she said happily, taking the plate and returning to the kitchen.

Link smiled, feeling a little more relaxed as he settled into his seat. Perhaps he was over thinking things with their attitude towards him, aside from that one guard at least. Just because one was bitter towards him didn't mean the rest were.

“I'm sorry that I hadn't thought of these things before. You are honestly one of the first Hylians to come by in quite some time. Ever since the feud had started we really don't have any visitors at all come to think of it. Not even our bordering allies,” Sidon said, not even making a move to pick up his fork as he spoke to Link.

He wanted to ask but he was sure it was another one of Sidon's things to not eat without him until he got his food.

“It's really okay,” Link said to him. “I know that you weren't really accustomed to it. It would be the same thing if you had come to visit where I had lived.”

*

The rest of their meal was actually rather pleasant. Sidon had asked about the well being of those in the orphanage, wondering if Impa and her sister were still alive.

In turn Link had asked about what had become of him and his family after that day they had left. It was easy to see that it was not a pleasant subject that Sidon wanted to talk about, but Link came to know that for Sidon's protection, as he was so young, they had only sent Mipha from time to time as the feud became worse.

And then eventually even Mipha stopped traveling.

Now that Sidon was of age and as well as King he wanted to travel once more. But not before this treaty was made with the Princess of Hyrule and this feud was over and finally put to rest. It was not benefiting to anyone.

“Perhaps together we could travel through Hyrule. We could both experience the different lands and cultures,” Sidon offered as he walked him along the bridge. “What do you say? Would that be something you would be interested in?”

Normally Sidon would have offered his arm to him but he was not one to be pushy especially after what happened in his study the day before. Sidon wanted to play his cards right. He did not want to push Link away by being too affectionate.

It was a shame that he had seemed to have changed a little since the last time they had met. Granted they had been kids the last time but Link had become more closed off as he had grown up. The king was going to make sure that he got Link to come out of his shell...at least with him of course. He would not make him that uncomfortable.

Link smiled, giving a small nod. Even if they didn't end up with one another perhaps he could still enjoy a trip with him. Maybe be able to catch up on lost time together. They would still be able to do that without being wed, right?

Little did Link know that their marriage was the one thing that would be the deciding factor when it came to the treaty and ending the feud.

“I would like it,” Link said, resting his hands on the low railing and gazing out at the water before him. So pleasant, so beautiful.

“Link, I do want to thank you for letting me court you as such. I do want you to know that this is not in a state of just formalities and politics...as well as the promise. This is far more than that,” Sidon offered, standing next to him with his hands behind his back and a heavy flush having settled on his cheeks..

Link closed his eyes, feeling the breeze run over his face and through his hair. So calming. Perhaps maybe he should just stay there...

“I know Sidon. I believe you. But can we really have a relationship based on something you felt when you were but a boy,” he said to him. “I-”

But his words were cut off as he suddenly heard fast approaching footsteps and then shoved that sent him hurtling over the edge of the bridge and down towards the dark water far below.

Link let out a cry as the wind rushed past his ears. He didn't know how to swim!

“Hylian scum!” came the voice of a female zora from on the bridge.

Sidon grabbed hold of her arm tightly, gold eyes wide and teeth bared in anger. It was the Zora that had served them breakfast from earlier.

“Who do you think you are?!” Sidon snapped at her. She seemed to wilt at the sight of her king so angry at her. “How dare you push my betrothed over the bridge!”

“Our king should marry a Zora!” she snapped.

“How dare you speak to me in such a manner! Guards!” Sidon growled, keeping a vice grip on her arm as he dragged her towards the edge of the bridge nearby.

“Help!” came the far away cry from Link, the sound of aggressive splashing soon drowning out his cries for help.

The water slipped above his head as he slipped further into the water. His breath shortly ran out, water filling his lungs as his vision started to go black.

Right before he lost consciousness he saw a flash of red in the water and his body being lifted up against a warm body.

I can no longer link previous chapters with the new “updates” from tumblr.

I’m open for written commissions

want to support? my patreon and kofi (just search triforceangel)

my a03 (triforceangel) as another place to read my fics

[ritostorytellers]

((Now that I’m home from the con, I wanted to give my input on the AOC DLC. Keep in mind this has spoilers, you have been warned!))

So first off, I briefly mentioned this, but I really enjoyed that Revali got to have a tender moment with Teba. That was one of the things that kinda bothered me about the main story, how every Champion got a tender moment with their respective Neo Champion except for Revali and Teba. Plus, you get to see a softer side of Revali that I didn’t think the devs were going to give us, so that was really nice~

With that said, some of the cutscenes, while they fill in smaller gaps where confusing things happened, most of the cutscenes don’t really add a whole lot story-wise. Honestly, I think the cutscene of Kohga and Sooga was really the only one that helped to fill any gaps, the rest was kinda like fodder? Though I guess you could argue that the first cutscene also shows how Terrako ended up where he was, though tbh, I wasn’t really wondering that, so... take that for what you will.

Most of the other cutscenes... well, I’ll try to be general:

Mipha/Sidon’s cutscene felt weirdly stilted, and I don’t know whether that was due to Sidon’s voice acting?? Also raises a lot of questions about if there’s problems with the people from the past seeing their future selves (though I guess Yunobo and Riju did tell Daruk and Urbosa that they were their descendents, so?? idk)

Daruk/Yunobo’s cutscene was cute. That’s about all I can say for that. I adored it~

Urbosa/Riju’s cutscene... meh. Seems weird that Kogha can’t use the Thunder Helm?? What do you mean “you can’t master it”??? I thought you just wear it and it protects you from lightning? I feel like it was more of a cheap way to reference BOTW...

The King’s cutscene makes no sense timeline-wise. Before you start the mission, you’re told that this is happening while all of the Champions are trapped inside of their Divine Beasts and Zelda and Link (whom you control in the mission) are on their way to save them. But then the fight immediately ends and Urbosa just... shows up. It confused me so badly. Like, when she appeared, I honestly thought it was Kohga in disguise, because they kept reiterating that she was stuck in the Divine Beast like the others. What, when she got saved from Thunderblight Ganon did she just say “Later Nerd” to Revali and ran off before saving him to go save the king??? Chronologically speaking, it doesn’t seem to make sense.

The cutscene with Astor, while it tries to tell you his origins, it... doesn’t really explain anything?? If anything, it leaves you with more questions than answers. What the hell is this cult that showed tf up out of nowhere?? These guys were never mentioned ever, I just assumed Astor’s getup was a wardrobe thing. 

The final cutscene, again while it’s cute to see the tender moments with the Champions/Neo Champions, that part with Zelda at the end was... very confusing?? I honestly thought it was an end-game cutscene, but looking back, I realized that none of the Champions are wearing their Champion garb, so it’s sometime before their coronation as Champions but after they’ve been recruited to be pilots?? And what is Zelda actually doing in this cutscene?? It’s not very clear. She just says “I must do this” and jumps off and never explains what she’s doing.

Alright, so that’s my story take. Now for the gameplay take:

I love having Purah/Robbie and Sooga and the things they add that make them unique. Haven’t quite mastered them yet, but I like them. They don’t feel like reskins of other characters and I approve very much of that.

The new maps are really cool. I do wish they would’ve done more with the Kakariko Village map, though. There’s a ton of open space, but in order to do the mission properly, you have to stay in the confined part of the village, which is very cramped and is sometimes hard to see where you’re trying to stop monsters from invading the keeps.

On that note, the concept of memory missions within the game are cool and for the most part, I enjoyed them. But I did NOT like either the “find X number of this item” or the hidden missions. The “Find X number of items” were so damn hard to do. I actually had my friend help me to spot all of the crates, because all of those items were in one of forty crates randomly lying around the field. And the hidden missions... While some of them were obvious, there were some that were like “WTF?! How was I meant to guess what that was?!” Like:

Beating Kohga with Riju. Honestly I got lucky with this because she was right by Kogha when he spawned so I took him out with her. But like, after you clear it the first time, you can switch Riju and Urbosa out with any other characters, and if you don’t main Riju (like me) You would’ve never learned that. It also made me hella paranoid that there were going to be more missions that were like this "Beat [enemy] with [character]" But that was the only one. If you're going to do a mission that requires THAT specific of circumstances, you can't keep that as a hidden objective. Someone who doesn't clear that mission the first time would never guess that.

Keeping every Yiga clan member from fleeing during the Kohga/Sooga mission. This one was BS for me. Like, when the one guy kept dying, I just assumed I couldn't save him and that the hidden mission had to be something else. Especially since the GATES are closed. How would I have known that they would open up if I walked up to them?? There weren't any context clues to this. Not only that, but clearing this particular mission is the only way you can unlock Sooga as a playable character. It's dumb and I don't like it.

Keeping the enemies from entering the Kakariko keeps during the Daruk/Yunobo mission. The only reason this was such BS was because the monsters would spawn directly outside of the keeps. So you pretty much had to keep your ground fighters in the Kakariko keeps at ALL times or risk failing the memory mission. Which, I don't know about you, but I really enjoy wandering the maps, so it made this mission feel weirdly restricted. Also there's a random red herring in this mission in particular that makes you think that the hidden mission is to escort this Hylian Captain to Kakariko by defeating a hidden boss (because there were two other missions where the hidden memory mission was to find and defeat hidden bosses). But that wasn't it. It was to destroy four keeps with Rudania. Why the hell was that even there if it wasn't in any way relevant to the mission???

While I like that the characters all got cool weapons that could look aesthetically cool in the cutscenes, they feel almost pointless? Unless there's something about them that I'm missing. Because, in order to do this DLC, you need to have unlocked Terrako. Which means you would've had to play through nearly every mission, which means you would already have weapons for your fighters that are pretty beefy. Why would I forego my beefy weapon that I spent hours grinding on for this weaker version of the weapon (the stats are not particularly good, if you ask me). I feel like they only exist to have them show up in the cutscenes, unless they've got some grandiose ability that I'm unaware of as the hidden seals.

While I like most of the added abilities that the DLC gave them, I'm not gonna lie, it throws off my groove while playing as Teba in particular. Idk if I'm just hitting something weird, but when I'm midway through my combo he'll activate the DLC ability, which leaves him completely vulnerable (which is NOT what I want for my strongest fighter, to be left totally vulnerable). This is kinda a nitpick, I haven't really had this issue with the other fighters. Just kinda sucks when the issue happens with one of your mains.

I do like that they encourage you to do some vicious monster battles for some of the character upgrades. I mean, this game is kinda like a grind, so as long as the grind isn't too tedious, it's nice. It encourages you to go back and play the earlier DLC so it's not something that ends up forgotten once you've unlocked the Battle-Tested Guardian.

One last minor gripe, but with all of the DLC missions on the board, it's also hard to tell which missions I have left to clear. You can really only search in the menus by level difficulty, but if you don't know what difficulty the missions your missing are at, it's hard to locate them in the menu. I feel like there's gotta be a better way to do this.

tl;dr: All in all, I give this DLC a meh rating. It's a nice bonus content package for those who are not as hardcore into the game as others (the first wave of DLC I found was much more geared towards hardcore players. This one seems to favor casual players more). I liked some of the cutscenes, but not all of them, plus it was advertised as "filling the gaps" when it does very little of that in reality or just confuses people even more. I understand the conundrum of not being able to show the Neo Champions in the DLC trailers because of spoilers for newcomers, but it also sends out very mixed messages to people who HAVE played the game already. Memory missions are an interesting concept that I enjoyed, but I think they should remove the "hidden missions" and just state outright what every mission is. New, cool weapons are nice in theory but your normal weapons will be so beefed out by the time you unlock them that there's no point in spending the mats to level them up.

[sidon-reader-support]

Hello there! I just found your blog and it is amazing! Ever since I read your zora reproduction post-all I can think of is a Sidon in breeding season where all he can think about all that fun twister he could have with his s/o and all the cute kids they would have. Can you please do some headcanons about Sidon trying to cope with those thoughts and maybe ask his s/o about having kids?

(Let me first say that I love your icon, the Book of Life was a really good movie~ Second I looooove this idea and the idea of the breeding season is another guilty pleasure of mine when it comes to Zoras~ I tried my best to keep this relatively PG but I might be planning something to do more not-so-PG stuff, I don’t know yet. Anyways this got really long… Enjoy!~)

Want or Need?

Word Count: 2728Warnings: Twister game mentions, Dirty thoughts, Talk about pregnancy and childbirth, Slight angst, Fluff at the end

The time had finally come: the start of Mating Season where all the Zoras could hardly think of much else other than their most primal urges. Urges that entailed intimate activities with one’s life partner so that you could plant the seeds for your future family. That is to say it is a time where most, if not all, Zora couples retreated into their homes to spend every wrapped in each other’s arms engaging in rough intimacy that only Zoras were capable of.

This year, much like the others, Prince Sidon was left to endure the season alone longing for the touch of another.

Many of the other Zoras didn’t need to concern themselves with restraint as they could freely indulge their impulses with their mates. Those Zoras already have that special person they wanted to spend the season, and the rest of their lives, with. Hopeful to come out bearing the beginnings of their new family. Yet, their Prince was trapped, not because he didn’t have that special woman, but because he could never ask that of them.

No matter how much he wanted to and oh did he want to. Bad.

Mating season had always been difficult for the Royal Zora but it had never been this hard. Perhaps, it was because he now had the girl he loved with every fiber in his being. He wanted to be with this girl, he wanted to take her hand in his one and proclaim to the goddess Hylia herself that this was his beloved, and he wanted to run his hands over every inch of that smooth skin that always felt so nice against his palms; Sidon was certain that it would feel even nicer pressed against his body-

‘Calm yourself, Sidon,’ the Zora scolded himself, another thing that he had been doing rather frequently as of lately. It was completely necessary though when his mind was always turning to such… tantalizingly naughty things. With the season causing his hormones to run rampant it was nearly impossible for him to think about you without thinking about what he could also be doing to you. Just looking at you made him feel dizzy with want.

Wanting to kiss you, to feel you, to mark all over that beautiful body so that everyone will know you belong to-!

Sidon groaned and shook his head trying to shake those persistent thoughts from his mind, instead trying to distract himself by turning his attention to his surroundings but all his eyes could settle upon was you.

Currently you were organizing some of his paperwork on the other side of his office since you had, “noticed that he had been rather distracted lately,” to which Sidon could only sheepishly smile and try to pretend like he had not been staring at you for the past five minutes.

As much as he tried to brush it off assuring you that it was nothing for you to worry about, you remained persistent until he gave you a reason and he had to come up with some sort of excuse to satiate you. The first thing that had come to mind was just busy nights of paperwork which wasn’t entirely untrue since he had been working rather late into the night but that was only because he was trying to keep himself away from you. Sidon was worried that if he sent too much time around you he would really lose control and that was the last thing he wanted to do to his sweet pearl.

So when night approached, Sidon had expected to spend another night of bouncing between handling paperwork and daydreaming about you and what the two of you could be. Of course, most of the time he had rather risque thoughts but tonight he was thinking more about what could happen after he claimed you as his beloved. He didn’t even know if you wanted to have children, he had never asked you about it though he really should since that is one of the few things his brain could process.

“Sidon, you’re spacing out again,” your voice chimed and the Zora had to force himself to get his head out of the clouds and back down to the office room. His golden eyes met with yours twinkling with amusement as you laughed at what was surely a dumbfounded look on his face.

A sheepish chuckle escapes his own lips before he has to clear his throat and turn his gaze down to the practically untouched papers on his desk. “My apologies, I was just thinking about some things,” he says trying to focus back at the words written on the page. They all just seem to blur     together in nonsensical sentences that he can’t seem to decipher with mind still jumbled by a sudden onslaught of questions about the future.

Sidon could picture it now: you practically glowing as you rest a hand against the small bump of your belly stretched by the eggs developing inside and smile at him. How many children would you have? Would you want a girl or a boy? Sidon had always wanted a little girl, his own little Princess to pamper and adore, it was a heavenly thought for his family-driven brain. He could name her Mipha in honor of his sister and she would raise her to be just as amazing as the late Princess had once been. Though he would still giving her the space she needed to become her own person. She would probably have his eyes with the sweet smile and voice of her mother as she beamed up at him and called for him.

“Sidon. Sidon. Sidon!”

Once again the Zora had to pull himself down and meet your eyes feeling a pinch of guilt when he saw the frustrated look on your face. “Sorry, my love, I didn’t quite catch that. Could you say it again?”

You sigh and then stand up holding a stack of papers in your hand as you approached his desk setting them down in front of him. “I asked you what you were thinking about, but you didn’t hear me,” you state and Sidon looks away like a kicked puppy, “It didn’t even look like you were reading or writing anything so I know it was not work that was distracting you. Just what is going on with you, my Prince?”

Sidon’s body tenses when you address him by that nickname that inspired a flurry of dirty thoughts to pop into his head that made him drop his writing utensil in favor of covering his face with his hands. He feared that if you looked into his eyes you would see right through them into his mind and see exactly what he was thinking about.

“Please…” A small hand placed itself upon Sidon’s arm, gently squeezing the rough scales that went stiff at your touch. “You can tell me anything Sidon, you know this, right? Please just tell me what is wrong.”

All of Sidon’s resolve to hide his issue was washed away by your pleading words, he could never say no to you and when he parted his fingers and met your tender gaze for just the briefest moment he knew he could not resist those eyes. So the Prince let out a sigh and then slowly lowered his hands and his last wall of defense against your eyes ready to finally tell you. As soon as he could find the words to say.

“Well… it is nothing serious, um, you see… so…”

Sidon cursed himself mentally, since when had talking become such a struggle for him. You were still staring at him, but thank the heavens you didn’t look frustrated anymore, more so curious and patient than earlier as you waited expectantly for his response. The Prince took a deep breath and then let his mind spill the first thought that popped into his head come out in one quick breath.

“Doyouwanttohavekids?”

There. It was finally out. There was no taking it back now. Sidon could only look down at you and anxiously await your response and judging by the look on your face - cheeks flushed a light pink hue and eyes wide in surprise - you were clearly taken aback by his words. The Prince wasn’t quite sure if that was a good thing or not yet but after waiting a couple of minutes he was starting to become worried. Perhaps he should explain himself.

“Pardon the abruptness of that question but, and I don’t know if you know this or not, we Zoras have a certain time during the year, mating season, when our bodies and minds decide that we are in the most optimal condition to get together with our dearest loved one and… well, mate.” By now the blush on your face has grown a few shades darker and Sidon can only assume that the everything is starting to click in your head, yet still you do not say a word. “My love…?”

Finally you blink a few times and your expression molds into serious concern, a look that makes Sidon’s heart drop in anticipation of rejection. However, your hands reach out again as you lean against the desk and take hold of Sidon’s large hands holding them close in your own smaller ones. The contact alone is so tender and reassuring that most of the Zora’s worries melt away as soon as you touch him, but some of it sticks when he meets your eyes again.

“Well, I didn’t know about all of that but if that’s what’s going on then it explains why you’ve been avoiding me so much,” Sidon looks away guiltily at this statement but you continue on, “I am a little upset that you felt you had to hide something like this from me-”

“I know, my dear, a thousand pardons that I did not tell you sooner. I just wasn’t sure where to start since mating season is such a big part of a Zora’s nature…”

“Sidon that’s not what I’m talking about.”

The Prince froze in place confusion etched on his face as he attempted to process this new information. You were upset but not about mating season? Now he was even more worried because he didn’t know what had caused you to become so concerned. Was it something else he had said? Sidon turned back to you trying to rack his mind thinking of what else he had said that could’ve possibly made you upset.

“Sidon, could we even have children?”

Sidon is slammed back down to reality by this question and his immediate response was to deny it. “What do you mean love?”

You huff and then let go of his hands taking a step away from his desk to put your hands against your chest. “Sidon, I’m a Hylian and you’re a Zora, even if we did try would something like that even be possible?” You pointed this out as if it was an obvious fact which it was, at least to you. Sidon had to take a moment to fully process this idea his mouth hanging agape ever so slightly like he wanted to say something but words were failing him.

The thought that your species were so different had never occurred to the Zora in his heated gaze, especially with his mind being so one-track; now that he was thinking about it, however, Sidon could not believe that it had not come to him sooner. He had always acknowledged that their were a few, well quite a few, differences between the two of you so he had to be more careful with you but he had been so focused on just being cautious that he had forgotten why he did it in the first place.

The contrast between your appearances was so blatantly obvious to him now. You were so small and fragile while he was a towering figure capable of either mass destruction or the gentlest touches depending on his mood. Sidon wasn’t even quite sure if the level of intimacy that he wanted to achieve with you was even possible if your anatomy also differed there, your relationship had never made it to that step. A pang of sorrow sent Sidon’s fluttering heart sinking to the bottom of his stomach and he reprimanded himself for overlooking such a crucial detail. How could he have been so blinded by his own desires to not take it into account?

Your eyes stared at Sidon waiting expectantly for him to give you some sort of answer but all he could manage was silence, yet that seemed enough to you as you let out a weak laugh and then turn away from him. “Exactly. I’ve never really thought about having kids especially not with a Zora Prince not because I don’t love you but it’s just kind of unreal,” your arms wrap around your body and Sidon tenses up with guilt, “I mean, we don’t even know if it would actually work or if we can do it….”

“I’m sure we can,” Sidon insists with a smile trying to lighten up this tense atmosphere that has crept its way into the room and settled down on the Zora’s shoulders like a heavy weight.

“How do you know that?” You turn your head slightly, just enough to look back at Sidon with one eye half-lidded by what he was certain was your own weight pressing down on you.

Sidon had to pause once again, shorter this time so as not to lose your attention again, before he can manage to flash you a shy smile, “I… don’t-” you frown and start to tilt away again but he quickly stands and catches your notice again “-But! I’m sure that everything will be fine and that is not just my clouded mind filling me with more foolish ideas. I know that things would turn out fine when we did have kids.” Sidon smiled a little wider when you fully turn to face him your eyes wide in shock. The Zora’s own golden eyes widen and he backtracks slightly on his words a little flustered before correcting himself, “That is to say, if we have any little ones! Do… do you want to…?”

It’s your turn to go silent for a moment and you look up at him and give a little snort before laughing softly - he knows it’s at his embarrassment and does not mind since he also finds it rather ridiculous. “I’ve never really thought about it but I suppose I would not be opposed to the idea. To be honest, if we’re making confessions here, I’ve actually been thinking about taking things a little further.”Sidon gives you a pointed look accompanied by a wide smirk that rouses a blush on your cheeks as you glance elsewhere bashfully. “Hush. So I’ve had some thoughts about spending some time in the bedroom with my lover and clearly I wasn’t the only one,” you retort playfully smirking back at the Zora.

“Careful,” Sidon warns as he walks out from behind the desk to approach you. He felt like the barrier that had previously stood untouched by either of you had now been broken down with one conversation. “I might just make it reality,” he chuckles reaching to cup the side of your face in one of his hands feeling how it heats up against his palm.

Your smile falls and you look up at him worry etched into your face once again as you say, “What would the child of a Hylian and a Zora even look like? Would it be more like me or you or maybe it’d be something in between? Would they even have gills? What kind of heir to the Zora throne can’t breathe underwater?”Sidon looked down at you then lifted your small frame off of the ground balancing you on one arm, which was ont rather difficult since you didn’t weigh much to him. He smiled at you and then planted a sweet reassuring kiss on your lips one that he doesn’t break until he feels your body melt against his releasing the tension that had burrowed into you once again. Once you were relaxed he pulled away with the brightest and most disconcerting smile on his face.

“You worry too much.”