#pipit and sky

[cutiebug21]

happy valentines very hungry caterpiller cupcakes

[phantom-peachie]

hhhh,,, skyward sword,,

screams incoherently

[sapphicseasapphire]

More “I am Sky” stories??? More to come???

“I am Sky” stories: Zelda

A bit of an explanation under the break?

Sky and Pipit are 100% brothers and no one can convince me otherwise. They’re very close! This story takes place before the Zelda story. Here, Sky’s been merged for like three days at the most, and those three days were spent in Skykeep, defeating Demise (and literally everyone else) and then a long recovery (which is a battle in and of itself). So having this time to test his limits in a safe place with someone he trusts is very important!

I have many MANY more thoughts about Sky and Pipit’s relationship that are currently being condensed into a fic (hopefully I’ll be able to get it all written out soon) but for now, I hope this is enough!

And as always, if you have questions, feel free to ask! I’m more than happy to ramble!

[majorproblems77]

Uhh... it was not 20 minutes :)

I hope you like it? We get more Groose and Warriors in this chapter and also Zel! :D

[publfitm]

You are very lucky that there are no #PIPIT# here

(⁠≧⁠▽⁠≦⁠)

[skyillustrates]

Some doodles of my favorite Skord ships :D

[wild-dagon]

Sky’s loved one(s)

Building off of this idea

Where all of the Chains loved ones get dropped into Wild’s Hyrule and the Chain have to go pick them up (two at a time Wild as guide and chain member)

[needfantasticstories]

Cawlin’s folded arms and scowl said he had plenty he’d rather be doing. This was going to be miserable. 

(Finally updated this old rusty ship of a fic. I love her. She's hideous in some parts, but lovely in others. Hope you enjoy Skyward Link, Groose, Cawlin, and Stritch getting a little dungeon crawl. (hints of LU if you look for it)

Link found the two orbs in the mines right away by following a trail of technoblins through the halls. He’d need to restock his bombs soon, but he came out relatively unscathed: his hair would unfrizz from the shocks soon enough, and he’d get his arm bandaged at his temporary base. He chided himself a little as he walked the last length of a cavern before reaching daylight. He should have predicted there would be two dinolfos instead of one, but he wasn’t used to them forming ambushes like that. Nor had he ever seen them fight with such desperation. And bleeding a black substance like pitch. That was new. There was a lot he didn’t really understand about monsters. Perhaps they were older than most, he mused. His arm dripped, the cut stinging as he hefted the ungainly orb.  

He emerged from the desert mines to blinding sunlight, all the brighter for reflecting off glittering sands and yellow cliffs. Crimson soared above, chasing a large bird. He was enjoying the chase, but Link doubted the smaller broosting bird felt the same. As his eyes adjusted, he left the shelter of the mine. 

In a three meter circle all around him, the earth bloomed with lush green grass and flowers–the distant past brought forward by the power of the stone he held. The timeshift orb was a marvel of engineering. He doubted he’d ever stop marveling at the strangeness of walking in a small bubble in time, his footsteps now bending the lush grass from exactly one thousand years ago. He wondered how he must appear to the robots and technoblins that had traversed the area in it’s original time, but thinking about it too much strained his focus on the task at hand. He’d puzzle it all out with Zelda later. Right now, he just needed to get two more of these safely to Zelda at the sealed grounds. 

The path out of the mine’s canyon angled up into a narrow ramp hugging the cliff face. He’d follow it all the way up to the top. Though he walked slowly, ready for whatever changes his bubble of distant past might bring, he was still startled when the deku baba burst from the ground and blocked his path. Link set the multifaceted stone on the ground and lurched forward. He slashed across its gaping mouth, shining with ropes of saliva, before it even finished preparing its strike. The monstrous bloom dissipated into purple smoke, and he took up the stone again. 

It was a bulky, multifaceted shape that would not roll when set down, mercifully. It fit perfectly into the short, four-pronged stone pedestals designed to draw on the orb’s powers. They once powered the great mines of Lanayru, fueling both the facility and the robots that once managed it. What a sight, he imagined, looking over the yellow sands and bone-dry cliffs now covering the landscape. It had once been like Faron but with a great sea lapping at lush green shores. Ships had sailed over great waters, the likes of which he’d only seen through the small window of the orbs transforming the sea around Skipper’s ship. It had been surreal, beyond anything, to sail that way. One day, he hoped, he could see the sea as it had once been. 

Especially, he thought, as sweat trickled down his spine and stung his injury. Dust and old machine grease coated his skin. He’d need to clean soon. 

Atop the cliff, Link found his camp. He laughed to himself as he walked over to his blanket and saddle, and both disappeared in favor of short grass. He struck the orb with the pomel of his sword, shutting the device off. The circle of lush green underfoot disappeared, and his old trekking blanket and saddle reappeared again on the dusty ground.

He shoved the large timeshift orb into his saddlebag, settling it beside the first one he’d found, earlier. Link preferred not to gain the attention of any more monsters with it out in the open. Especially not after how hard the dinalfos had fought to keep the second one. 

He sat on the old blanket spread. Crimson looped lazily around to rejoin him. Link whistled and waved him off to keep playing. They would not be leaving for a long while. Link rinsed and wrapped his arm up, and downed one of Luv’s red potions. It chased away his throbbing headache, one that felt like his entire being was pulsing in warning at the strain he’d just endured. He’d come closer to passing out than he’d realized. Maybe he should have stopped and eaten one of those little heart-fruits on the way out.

He shared a lunch with Crimson of pumpkin seeds and coconut rolls. He spiced his own smaller share of the seeds with the hot spices Gortram had given him as a bet after he won the rail race three times in a row. To his own surprise, as much as Gotram’s, Link found he enjoyed the heat. 

Link could not rest long. Crimson gulped his seeds from the sack as if they might suddenly disappear. Seeds speckling his vibrant feathers and massive beak, he squawked a farewell, gave Link’s shocked hair a little preening, and then vaulted skyward again, returning to his own exploration of the desert. (And taunting the boulder-spitting birds that roosted all over, the big menace). 

Link looked around, uncertain where he should resume looking for the next stone. Finding them had been much easier with Fi’s dowsing. He settled on trying another of the tunnels, a bit further west. 

A shadow passed overhead. Link paused, the blanket half-rolled up, and scanned the skies for it’s source. The birds here had a habit of dropping rocks, and he preferred to know which way to dodge. To his surprise, familiar voices called down as the shadow passed over him again. 

“Yoho, Link!” Pipit swooped overhead. Groose and his two lackeys just behind, then Karane and Fletch. They kicked up a small storm as they landed.

Pipit looked chipper as ever, Karane annoyed but determined, and Fletch looked enthralled by everything in sight. But Groose, Stritch, and especially Cawlin looked furious .

Pipit palmed Link’s shoulder firmly. “Gaepora thought you could use some help! Some sort of mission from Hylia herself? It was certainly intriguing, but he said we shouldn’t ask too many questions.”

“I certainly have some,” Fletch joked, nervously eyeing the cactus nearby. 

“Same, but we get it. Sacred mission. What would you like us to do?” Her voice was hard, ever focused on the task. 

This… this was a strange first. Link was almost at a loss for words. Should he tell them to go back, that it wasn’t safe here? Should he teach them about all the monsters they would face, which could itself take an hour or more? Did all of them even know how to fight? Or should he shrug and accept their help and let them figure it out like he did?   

“I’d love some help, but this area is crawling with monsters.” He pointed down to where a trio of giant crustaceans stalked over the sinksands. Electricity sparked across their shells. Stritch and Fletch startled and stepped back, though Fletch followed it by flexing and cracking his knuckles. Cawlin gaped. Karane and Groose scowled down at them, and while Karane gripped the hilt of her knight’s sword, Groose pulled free a sledgehammer. As if that could take care of it. Pipit scowled too, but Link could see the gears turning in his mind. 

“Commander Eagus and Headmaster Gaepora prepared us for that.” Karane took out a sketchbook where she’d drawn and added notes about lizalfos on one page and technoblins on another. “Time to see who’s studying pays off and who does not.” She eyed a few of the boys.

Their expressions ranged from determined to resigned, but none backed out. Who was he to argue with the headmaster and Knight Commander?

“Alright, but it will be dangerous. First, look for bomb flowers. That’s the best way to tackle just about everything down here.” He led them to the patches of scraggly bomb flower plants a few meters away. He showed them how to pick them, how to bowl or toss them, and tracking the time before they’d detonate. 

Pipit brought a bomb bag too, so they picked the strange flowers until it was full. Link hoped there would be enough bombs to tackle the job. 

“I need four of these, but it’s going to be a long fight.” Link pulled one orb free and immediately the ground around them shifted to a lush green, and a small rockpile appeared under Cawlin’s feet. He squawked and fell backwards. Link stifled a laugh while the others marvelled at the sudden change. “The goddess needs them for some task. Zelda needs them,”  Link added for Groose. “If you’re up for danger.”

Pipit was undeterred. “Got it! We’ve got potions, and weapons. Owlan and Orlan gave us a rundown of the basics of the monsters here.” (thank Hylia, Link thought) “So, where do we look?” 

“This place is littered with mines, and these are somewhere inside. I can show you the map, and you can copy—” 

“Got some already.” Karane pulled hers out. Link gaped. It was surreal, seeing them like this. Like they were not first-year graduates at the academy, but battle-ready cadets. He thought of the fires, of the dream, and for the first time he felt like maybe they could not only survive it, but maybe even win .

“They were pretty thorough with preparing us. Don’t worry, Link.” 

“Took up the whole morning listening to them drone on. Worse than being in class.” Cawlin grumbled. 

“Gaepora’s become a real hard—” Groose elbowed Stritch to shut him up. “If it’s for Zelda, we can get it done.” He hefted and spun his hammer, and Link even with his bulk and strength, Link marveled at the east with which he tossed the dense tool like it was little more than a pen in his fingers. Groose caught him watching and grinned smugly. “What’s the plan, squirt?”

Pipit answered by unfolding his map. “Let’s split up. Link, which mines have you searched?”

Gaps remaind in their mine maps, but a quick descent to visit the local mining robots rectified that quickly enough. Groose even recruited one for himself after he found its missing arm and offered to repair it. Atop the ruined walls amid the sinksands, they finished forming their plan. 

The sun passed its zenith, and they all shone with sweat, but they had a plan. Pipit took his Karane and Fletch, while Groose and his lackeys stuck with Link. 

Before parting, Link pulled his friend aside. “Thanks, Pipit. You didn’t have to volunteer, but I’m glad you did.”

“Aw, no worries. I needed a new reason to keep Karane from meeting my mother anyway. So embarrassing.”

Link laughed. Pipit’s mother was a notorious slob. There were bets going to see how long Karane could go before officially meeting the woman. She often paid Link to clean their house, always good for when he needed rupees, but somehow it never lasted long before reverting to its usual state of filth.

“We’ll look in those caves we passed on the way. Groose, take the lead after Link. We’ll meet you all at the cliff top before sundown!”

Link waved. Groose didn’t. Stritch looked like he’d just walked into a dungroom in the aviary, and Cawlin’s folded arms and scowl said he had plenty he’d rather be doing.

This was going to be miserable. 

And it was. He had to save Cawlin and Stritch every four steps. Cawlin had wet his pants at the first deku baba. Stritch had fared a little better, but why on earth he only had a bug net and a single long stick to fight with was beyond Link. He finally accepted Link's slingshot and had the job of stunning any monsters so that Link could slice or Groose could crush. Cawlin settled for shouting “watch out” every few seconds, largely ignored by the others. 

The mine they’d chosen was one Link had never explored before. He’d only found it by accident as they trekked for a less promising cave further on. Link had taken out the orb and found the door appeared in place of a collapsed cave entrance that he’d mistaken for a plain cliff earlier. They’d walked by, and paused as it appeared on their right. 

Cawlin’s angry rants echoed in the cavern when the monster smoke cleared. They were still within view of the entrance. 

“Nice warm up,” Groose stretched, and looked at Cawlin with a smirk Link couldn't help but share. “Can’t wait for something bigger.” 

Cawlin scowled, but he dared not cross the bigger boy who could easily move their shared bedroom wall even further to claim more territory for himself, if annoyed. So the smaller boy sat up and stormed after the others. 

They finally entered the first room. Groose hefted a massive wooden shield emblazoned with the profile of his loftwing—the pompadour-like feather on its head a dead giveaway. Groose’s academy training shone through for the first time Link had ever seen outside the training hall as he parried the shock-blades and created openings to strike them with his hammer. It was a simple weapon, not flashy and not even a true weapon, but a tool he often took out when building tracks with Gortram. In three parries and three strikes, he took out three technoblins  

They made quick progress with him at Link’s side.

Stritch paused a few times to point out native insects, eyes bright at last. Cawlin and Groose scoffed each time. Soon, Stritch said nothing,not even when they passed a brilliant jeweled beetle Link knew was rare. Link paused to catch it, and handed it to Stritch. 

Groose’s little robot floated closer and whirred excitedly. “Zrrrt. That is a Lanayru horned beetle. They are best known for–” 

But Groose waved at it to stop. “Save it, little bot. We’ve got monsters to chase. Don't alert them too soon,” Groose chided, and motioned with a jolt of his chin for Link to hurry up.

Stritch looked at the other boys uncertainly, but hesitated only a moment before pocketing the bug. 

Groose wasn’t wrong, but Link didn’t like how stiffly Stritch walked now. His mind was not on the task.

On they went, finding creative solutions to travel deeper into the mines, repairing broken gears or finding special keys broken into pieces. 

Deep in the belly of the mine, Link led them into the next room. Hardly a heartbeat passed before he took care of the electric-shelled ampilus that ambushed them, stopping their incoming rolls by pulling out the timeshift orb. The rolling monsters shrunk as they crossed the time-barrier. 

Two small palm-sized orbs of sparking metal slowed to a stop at Stritch’s feet. 

“I detect those ampilus have reverted to their ancient forms: a chrysalis. Bzrrrrt. They lay buried for a hundred years before emerging.”

“Like insects!” Stritch cried out happily. “Did you know crustacean forms are theorized to be closely related to insects?” Stritch explained as he bent down to pick them up. Too late, the others tried to warn him not to.

He convulsed.

Groose kicked away the orbs and caught Stritch, setting him back on his feet. Stritch shoved free and looked at the offending orbs, still twitching, and pulled out his long stick. He lashed out at the orbs, batting them from the platform and sending them flying forward, one after the other, far across the next two pits of sinksand and rolling into the next room. 

Something massive stirred in the sand, the disruption visible through the doorway and illuminated by two thin beams of light from what must be a crack in the ceiling. Dust trickled from the walls as it moved, and the floor shook too. The other ampilus tucked into their shells and rolled straight down in the sand. 

The keese at the end of the hall fled. 

“Good job, bug-brain,” Groose grumbled. “That’s a monster lair . Where the big ones live”

Stritch flushed, but stormed ahead, chin and thin stick held high. Groose’s face fell a little, and he followed after. Link scrambled to keep ahead of both boys in case any new monsters from the past popped up. Sure enough, Link made them wait while his hook beetle drone sliced the stems of two ancient deku babas.

He overheard Groose’s quiet apology to Stritch as the smoke cleared. He was proud of Groose, and how he’d changed, but something still wormed in his mind about it. He didn’t have time for that sort of puzzle, not now, and he set those thoughts aside. 

To Link’s surprise, it wasn’t ancient monsters that showed up, but completely foreign ones. Slithering, legless creatures rushed out of the shadows, only to disappear at the orb’s border. 

“What in Hylia’s name…” Cawlin cursed. They walked on, and the thin rope-like creatures reappeared as they passed, spitting and hissing. Small black scales shimmered in the orb’s light. Link suppressed a shiver. They were not like Demise, not at all. And they faded as the mass of them ran at the border again. 

Groose looked at him, some question in his eyes, but Link shook his head. “I’ve never seen them. They seem harmless enough, for now. Let’s keep going.” he wondered if Groose too noticed the black scales, or the black trail they left before dissolving into the line marking the ancient past.   

Entering the monster lair, a stone door slammed shut behind them, locking out the murderous little worms. Ahead waited a large room with recently-burrowed tunnels in them.

A spray of sand and a massive weight slammed into Link. The orb flew out of his hands as he flew backwards, slamming into the wall so hard his vision blacked out. 

Blinking awake, he saw Groose defending the other two boys, shepherding them out of the way from what looked like the largest worm Link had ever seen. It was made of several perfectly round segments, each smaller than the former, and a strange tail dragging behind. 

The timeshift orb had deactivated. 

This creature was clearly new here.

This should be simple.

It was not. 

Link rose to face it, sword and shield ready, and took one step toward the stone. The creature swivelled from pursuing the other boys to face him, black goo dripping from where Groose had obviously struck it several times before. Link worried about how long he’d been out. The others looked exhausted. 

He took another step, and that same spray of sand and blanketing darkness overtook him.

This time he blinked awake faster, because the monster was already circling back to hit again.

“Link!” Groose shouted, “Aim for the tail!”

“The stone!” Link shouted back, pointing his sword to it and then running. He ran as if to enter one of the beast’s tunnels, but swerved at the last second and it blundered past him, unable to turn. Now, where would it come out?

“This beast is unknown. But based on observations, zzzzrrrrtttt, there is a fifty percent chance it will exit this particular tunnel,” the robot supplied. “But I predict survival for all present at ten percent.”

“Not helping, Little Boy,” Groose growled, looking between all the tunnels for some sign.

Goddesses, Link missed Fi. She’d have analyzed the monster’s patterns and have more helpful advice to give, he was sure. He ran for the orb only to see the monster barreling out of the tunnel near it. He turned and held to the wall as it passed by, forcing it to clumsily turn and face him.

Groose wasted no time and smashed the tail once, again, and again.

The beast screeched, the room shaking. 

It burrowed into the floor. Then it rose under Link in yet another spray of sand. Link landed with his sailcloth, but watched as the orb sailed up and landed on a ledge high above one of the tunnels. 

Great.  

He grabbed the sobbing Cawlin and shoved him against the wall. “Keep near the tunnels, and play chicken to keep it going in and out when it appears. Use this, “he shoved Hook Beetle into his hands, clasping the bracelet over his wrist. “Get that orb. If we turn it on, he disappears. Got it? Use the bracelet to control it.” Cawlin nodded, raw panic in his eyes but a spark of hope there too. 

Link ran to the center of the room. He’d draw it out, if nothing else. He could take the hit. To his surprise, it did not leap at him from below.

“Link!” Groose grabbed him and tossed him just as the monster appeared from yet another tunnel. Groose threw him, without warning, to the back-side of the monster. Link drew his sword and stabbed down into the tail as he landed, impaling the beast. Groose made quick use of his hammer, and Link fired arrow after arrow at the pinned tail at close range. Within moments, only the toxic purple cloud remained of it. 

Beetle flew over him, a little clumsy in her flight, and dropped the orb into his waiting hands. 

“Hey, you did it, little guy!” Groose cheered Cawlin. Pet pants ignored, his friends slapped his back in pride. 

The next room opened to them, and in the center glowed the twin of the timeshift orb Link held.

Leaving the dungeons took less time than entering, but the journey was not without trouble. They had to navigate a few tricky passages with technoblins, but Cawlin made clever use of the hook beetle and Groose’s new friend to bomb their camp to Eldin and back. 

Before sunset, they reunited with Pipit’s party atop the cliffs, both groups looking worse for wear.

“So, what did you fight?” Groose asked the exhausted first-year Knight. 

Pipit stretched his sore arms. “Giant bird. Red, then blue once we started taking it down. We had to throw those little electric balls at it to make it weak enough. None of the robots were any help…” he winced as he stretched his arms again. 

“Karane is a force to be reckoned with. Remind me never to get on her bad side.” Fletch said from the complete far end of the camp from her. She cocked a smile, but otherwise said nothing. Possibly because her lips were cut and her cheek swollen and scratched. Blackened monster blood, unusual to Link but apparently normal in Lanayru monsters, stained her yellow knight tunic. 

Though the sun had yet to set, they rested beside a small campfire, sharing potions and swapping tales of the day’s chaos. 

“Uh, Link? Well, I’m glad we could help.” Fletch offeredboth newly acquired, deactivated orbs out to him, and with their weight came a sense of profound gratitude that Link could hardly contain. 

“I honestly cannot thank you all enough,” he began, but said no more when their eyes looked up and widened in surprise, and he saw a glow over his own head. 

Gratitude crystals. Groose, the tallest, reached out and took them, and passed them around.

“Hylia,” Sky offered with a shrug by way of explanation. It was his best guess, anyway. And with his fellows waving at his back, he flew off with Crimson, a brilliant sunset at his back.

[skykittywhatchamahcallit]

Kritters

[hero-of-skies]

//got bored, made stuff. Will probably start using for dash comms and other things.//

[arecaceae175]

So I see a common head canon to explain why Sky can sleep in everyone's bed is that after his parents died the village as a whole raised him (I love this headcanon so much)

But that got me thinking. Would young Sky's toys be spread across every house? Would he have to go on a mini hunt across the whole village to try finding which house he left his favorite blanket? Who's cooking does he prefer? How much did people miss him spending the night when he joined the academy?

I just. I had feels with these thoughts, and wanted to share them with you because I know he's you most blorbo shaped boy

HELLO I LOVE THIS!!! That’s adorable actually. I love this so much.

In my head, the islands in the sky are a lot more populated and numerous than shown in the game because of game limitations. It’s a fully functioning society, and Skyloft is the biggest island and the main city, but there are a lot more. Still, I don’t imagine there’s a lot of surplus in supplies and resources. Everyone has to be careful and only use what they have to so that everyone will have enough.

If resources are delegated by household, it would make sense that Sky has to be passed around. No one family would be able to spare the extra food or clothes or toys to take care of him full time. Oh and once little Sky is old enough to really grasp the concept of scarcity, he might feel some guilt at using other families resources. As soon as any of them realize he’s feeling that though they would quickly put an end to it. Everyone there loves him like family.

Skyloft would probably have to have some sort of system for taking care of orphans and like getting a different amount of resources per household but I don’t feel like thinking about that system rn so the headcanon remains 😂

I see a lot of fics with Pipit as Links big brother figure, and I love that headcanon. I imagine he spent a lot of time there. And I think he would’ve spent a lot of time at Zelda’s house too.

Oooohhhhhhhh AH I can see a scene in my head right now. Sky’s at Pipit’s house and Mallara is getting the boys ready for bed but then Sky realizes he doesn’t have his favorite Stuffy, and he CANNOT sleep without it (it’s a Loftwing plush named Brenda because I’m in charge hehehehehe). Sky is distraught and so Pipit comforts him while Mallara goes from door to door trying to find Sky’s Brenda.

He’s so cutie patootie and I love him

[sapphicseasapphire]

I’ve hurt him enough, have some drawings of Cryptid Sky being happy.

A smile that must be protected.

Also big brother Pipit.

Silly goofies now that finals are done haha!

[linderosse]

Wielders of Wisdom: Introductions Part 1

Sun (Founder) [SS]

Mischievously supportive mom energy; a bit of an airhead

Bright and sassy, yet kind. Hates bullies, but is quick to forgive

Loves Sky so. freaking. much!!! She never stops talking about him.

The most likely to win a prank war

Story: Sun has set her heart below the clouds, and efforts to colonize the Surface are under way. Groose, Pipit, and the other knights have begun to venture out across the world. Yet the people of Skyloft are reluctant to migrate, and unidentified monsters still roam the land in droves…

Dot (Sage) [MC, FS, FSA]

Calm intellectual with a knowing smile and a penchant for dark humor.

Skilled Spellsmith, and amateur blacksmith

Childhood friends with Four. They made a promise to tell each other everything and they haven’t broken it. Yet.

The best at baking pastries

Story: After three separate consecutive attacks by Vaati and Ganon, the kingdom of Hyrule is finally at peace. Now, Dot and her six fellow sages look to secure the future, working on spells and items that should benefit the world at large. Yet others may be out to steal her secrets. And magical artifacts tend to come with risks of their own…

Lullaby (Spy) [OoT]

Silent rogue energy

Zero adventures, but the war keeps her busy. She can handle a spotlight, but she’s best suited to the shadows.

Complicated relationship with Time. Lullaby commissioned Time armor and called on him to fight in the war, and he does it, but they both know he’d rather be anywhere else. They trust and rely on each other, but guilt and history keep them at a distance.

The sneakiest Zelda. Even in this timeline, Impa taught her well.

Story: After Link confirmed her suspicions of Ganon all those years ago, Lullaby led the charge to lock the tyrant away. Impa’s training and Lullaby’s unique skillset as a spy helped Lullaby secure proof of Ganon’s conspiracy, and kept her alive through the resulting assassination attempts from Ganon’s allies. Now, remnants of Ganon’s coalition seem to have allied with outside forces to restart a civil war that’s picking up steam. War-hawks and protestors alike clamor for the queen’s attention while the fighting continues without end. If only Lullaby had more time— or perhaps just more information…

Part 2 >

Masterpost

[skyloftian-nutcase]

Okay, well replaying Skyward Sword reminded me that I wrote this like a year ago buried in a reblog so I'm just gonna air it out and plop it here.

The first time Link had disappeared, it had caused alarm. Zelda had just gone missing, ripped from her loftwing by a treacherous tornado, and suddenly Link was a haggard mess, dressed in a knight’s uniform, and then gone. People feared that he had been hurt too, a search shouldn’t last after sunset; he wasn’t a full knight, after all. However, Headmaster Gaepora had managed to calm the academy students, and the news spread throughout Skyloft.

It took almost a week for Link to return to Skyloft. When people saw his crimson loftwing circling around the town, a collective sigh of relief fell over the sky island. If he’d been gone consistently for so long, then he’d only return when he’d found Zelda, after all. Not to mention it meant they were both safe.

However, that had not been the case. Link had been alone, tired, and filthy. His clothes had tears in them in certain places, he had strange silky threads wrapped around parts of his legs, dry blood stains were disturbingly evident on his tunic, and he practically had bags under the already constantly present bags under his eyes. He had landed just by the goddess statue and had not been seen since. However, another bright light had appeared in the cloud barrier, unnerving the Skyloftians, who chattered about it amongst each other.

The bazaar had been exceptionally busy that day, and the new red light in the sky caused people to gather there to discuss the matter. It meant there were long lines just to get inside, and Link had not seemed keen to stand among the crowds to get the supplies he so desperately needed. Instead, he’d sat on the bench outside, waiting for the townspeople to eventually spread throughout the island once more and give him the space he needed to prepare for his next trip.

The crowds did indeed start to thin, but as people trickled out of the bazaar with hot drinks and hot gossip on their tongues, they paused, finding the boy passed out on the bench. At first it was amusing; Link often fell asleep all over town. But then it was worrisome. He looked haggard. Everyone in town was invested in this boy’s well-being; they’d all welcomed him into their homes at one point or another, the adults all remembered the little orphan wandering the island aimlessly in the days after his father’s unfortunate death, they all remembered bringing him into their homes with promises of warm food and a pillow to lay his head on.

So it had been collectively decided that someone would fetch a pillow from their home and get Link a bit more settled. Wryna brought a blanket as well, but Greba had pointed out worriedly that Link was still a mess (with an emphatic “He stinks!” from Kukiel). Mallara had gotten Commander Eagus, who had promptly swaddled Link in the blanket and carried him to the academy to tend to him.

After that encounter, everyone on Skyloft had decided that they’d keep an extra careful eye out for the boy.

This new pact ended up saving the young knight-in-training’s life. The next time he came back, he had fallen off his loftwing entirely, caught only by Pipit, who had been notified that something was wrong when Orielle noticed the loftwing’s panicked screeches. He’d been unconscious before he fell into his classmate’s strong arms, and even Groose and his stooges had watched in concern as Pipit had rushed Link to the infirmary.

But today was not quite so dire. Link had been missing from Skyloft for two weeks after he’d recovered (his periods of absence continued to grow, much to everyone’s concern), but this morning Jakamar, his wife Wryna, and their daughter Kukiel woke up to a surprise green bundle curled up in their bed. He was on the edge, barely taking any space, but he hogged a majority of that side of the bed’s blanket. At first Jakamar nearly jumped out of his skin until he realized who it had to be, and he pulled the blanket back just enough to see the curved little ears and fluffy dirty blonde hair that everyone on Skyloft knew so well.

Blowing out a sigh, he turned away and held his wife as she peered over his shoulder. “Well, at least we know where he is.”

“He’ll be hungry,” Wryna commented. “I’ll get started on breakfast.”

Jakamar grunted in acknowledgement as his wife crawled to the bottom of the bed to climb over the wooden frame so as to avoid waking Link. Kukiel shot up and started to bounce on the bed in excitement, and Jakamar scooped her into his arms and also climbed out of bed in a similar manner. The house was silent as the family cleaned their faces and prepped for the day (though only because the parents constantly had to remind Kukiel to keep quiet with gentle shushes and fingers over their lips), and then Jakamar took his daughter out for a morning stroll while Wryna busied herself in the kitchen area.

When he got back to the smell of a delicious breakfast, he stretched and smiled, glancing at the bed to find it empty. He looked back to see Wryna’s disappointed face.

“He’s gone!” Kukiel exclaimed in her high voice.

“I didn’t see him step out,” Wryna said guiltily.

Jakamar put a hand on his wife and smiled reassuringly. “Don’t worry about it, hon. At least he got some sleep. Pack it up in a bottle, if we see him we’ll give it to him.”

Jakamar had the luck to find Link later that day as the boy was meandering around the windmills. Although Jakamar was getting ready to offer the now lukewarm food, Link instead started asking him about the windmill’s missing propeller. Jakamar helped him as best he could, and just as Link rushed off to find Gondo at Jakamar’s suggestion (he figured the robot, though broken, might be able to help), the man called out to him, waving the large bottle with food carefully packed inside.

Link stared at him, confused. Jakamar held out the bottle. “Take it, kid. You look like you’re starving.”

It was a bit of a slip up to admit it to his face. Link often would recoil at such remarks, would cover it up with an embarrassed laugh and then actively avoid whoever said it for a while, which then made it even harder to help him. But it was the truth - he did look gaunt and worn thin. Jakamar was usually a pretty easygoing guy, but this seemed like it was starting to get serious. He wished the headmaster would reel the kid in.

Link’s expression shifted, so easily readable on his face, and his confusion clearly became shame. He looked down at the ground, biting his lip. When Jakamar pushed the bottle into his sight again, he took it wordlessly, but as he locked eyes with the man he gave a grateful smile. Before Jakamar could get a word in, Link turned on his heel and headed for the bazaar.

Jakamar blew out a sigh as he watched the boy run. Hylia look out for him.

[luimagines]

Soulmates in the Sky

Another commission!

They asked for the similar Soulmate plot I had for Warrior but make it Sky. this includes beginning context so for the majority/ entirety of the fic, Sky is referred to as Link.

Masterlist

Content under the cut!

When Link was little, he always wondered what it would mean to have a soulmate. Everyone on Skyloft had one. Or at least they had the idea that they had one.

Link didn’t understand it, but he hoped he would have one. There was a time for everyone to go see their soulmate. It was a cave, they said. It was wonderful, they said. It was life changing, they said. Link couldn’t wait for his turn.

As life continued on, Link grew and studied and found his loftwing. It wasn’t long after flying lessons began that the instructor had asked the young student to listen carefully.

They would be going to Souls Cove.

Link could hardly contain the way his little heart swelled up in anticipation.

Zelda didn’t seem to care as much as he did, but he hoped they would be nice and pretty and would love to go flying with him. 

“Listen up!” The instructor called them to attention. “You fly behind me and stay above the line of flight. We’re going to go around the main island and then we’ll take a right and go under the torrent. Any questions?”

Link couldn’t stop himself. He raised his hand. “How do we know if we have a soulmate once we get there?”

The instructor smiled kindly. It wasn’t a secret that soulmates were well known among Skyloftians, but the manner of which they were found was kept under tight lock. It was something no one wanted to spoil.

But today was the day they would learn, so there was little harm in explaining.

The instructor pointed in the direction in which they would travel and looked into the distance. “Once there, each of you will take turns entering the cave. You will see and hear your soulmate for the very first time- although it will only be reflections. There would be a magic stone that would connect you to them that whispers their inner thoughts towards you. You collect that and keep it safe.”

“So they’re not actually there?” Zelda tilted her head. “Why bother going then?”

“To learn who they are.”

Link raised his hand again, a small yet terrifying thought entering into his mind. “What if we don’t see anyone?”

The instructor paused, thinking over his words. “Well…most of the time it means that you already know who they are. But you can still collect the stone.”

Link calmed himself down. That’s fine then. Even better if he already met them!

“But what if there’s no stone?” Pipit asked next. He was going to skip ahead next year, Link was sure of it. So Link waited for the answer to his question. If Pipit was smart enough to skip a year, then there was surely a good point to his question. Besides, Link also wanted to know the answer.

The instructor looked nervous then. “There’s never been a case where there was no stone. So I’m afraid I can’t answer that question.” 

Multiple students didn’t bother to hide their disappointment.

“Any other questions?”

Pipt raised his hand once more. “What if we don’t hear anything from the stone?”

The instructor didn’t look amused. They deadpan and point to the edge of the island. “Impossible. We’ll head out. Follow me and stay close.”

They run and leap off of the edge of the island. Link is quick to do the same.

He can hear his classmates follow soon after and he whistles 

His loftwing comes up soon after, picking him up in what already is practiced momentum. Link has to keep an eye out for the professor- in order to keep their flying skills in check, they don’t tell the professors to wait for the students. The students have to catch up on their own or make their way back to the main island to be collected or redirected and start over. 

Link takes to the air like a fish takes to water. This is where he belongs.

He lands next to the instructor with practiced ease tucking into a roll and stopping in a sitting position. The instructor seemed mildly amused at his entrance as he turned to expect the other students to arrive.

“Link, you go first.” The instructor gestured to the cave. “It’s only fair you’ve arrived first. Besides, I have to wait for the other students.”

Link jumps to his feet, his heart in his throat as he looks towards the entrance of the cave. Was this it? Was it truly so simple? The cave entrance itself was simple and unassuming. Yet it held the air of destiny and it’s heavy in Link’s chest.

Link nods, taking the first steps into the cave. It’s quiet and there’s the sound of dripping water somewhere beyond him.

“Why are you so pretty?” A new voice says. They sound annoyed and irritated. “Don’t you know you make it hard to think? Do you have to be this distracting?”

Link pauses. He’s not sure if he should be offended or if he should take it as a compliment. What a strange thing to be annoyed about. At least they like the way he looks. 

Link walks further into the cove. He can vaguely hear the other students arriving just beyond the entrance, but the sounds of the cave seem to muffle their outcries and rough housing.

“H-hey… I didn’t mean it like that.” The voice sounds bashful now. Link looks around a stalagmite and into the crystal reflection on the wall. The reflection is not his own- but rather his soulmates. It’s suddenly hard to breathe. He’s never seen anyone like them. On one hand, he’s instantly enamored but on the other….he’s seen everyone on Skyloft. And he’s never seen them before. What does that mean?

“Link!” The instructor calls into the cave- ripping Link’s attention away from the reflection. “Not to ruin the moment….but the others have arrived. They need their turns before we have to head back. You can come back now that you know where it is, but you need to finish up.”

Link runs further in, just so he doesn’t miss anything else. Multiple iterations of reflections pass him. None of which belong to him. They’re from different moments of his soulmate's life. Each memory of his soulmate passes before him- letting him know about them before he’s ever actually met them. He sees glimpses into their childhood- up until he sees them as his age.

He stops at a pedestal of sorts. It’s a broken off stalagmite, protruding from the floor of the cave, but it’s the only one like that. The clearing around it seems purposeful. It looks significant.

There’s a smooth stone sitting in the middle of it.

Something in Link tells him to reach for it, to take it and keep it. He doesn’t fight it. 

“I’ll always be on your team.” His soulmate tells him. The stone feels warm. Feeling giddy and ready to take on the world with a new purpose, Link rushes back out of the cave, not willing to risk himself getting in trouble. If the instructor was honest, then Link would certainly find himself coming back here. He doesn’t know where they are, but he can already tell that he’d do anything for them.

He can’t wait to meet them.

***

Zelda gets taken two years later.

When she had come out of Souls Cove, she had looked as neutral as she could. Link had tried to ask questions about what she saw- or didn’t see- but she didn’t seem willing to talk about it. At the time Link had thought it was strange. They were best friends. She was always willing to talk to him.

But it hadn’t ever really mattered. Link would have gone to the edge of the earth and beyond for her. And then he had to prove it.

During his journey he had learned much, seen more than he could imagine, heard more than he was willing to believe. If there was a whole new world to discover, Link was certain that you were there, waiting for him. Even if you most likely didn’t know who he was.

But it’s fine, Link tells himself. He’s young. There’s peace on earth. 

He finishes his schooling and moves to the surface ready to begin the next chapter of his life. And to look for his soulmate. Surely they’re somewhere.

***

Years pass and Link finds a strange portal. It reeks of malice. He’s familiar with the smell and he’s emboldened by the energy. 

Something is trying to tear apart his home once more. He’s not entirely sure if he can bring back the Master Sword- but that’s not going to stop him from protecting everyone just like he did in the past.

He tells Zelda and Groose that he’s going on a journey again. He’s not sure when he’s going to be back. Link tells them about the portal and to watch for the people he’s about to leave behind. Zelda cries and Groose promises to do his best as he is incapable of doing anything less.

He smiles and packs up his best gear, taking as much as he can before he reaches the edge of the portal. He hopes the settlement remembers to steer clear of it. Who knows what came out of it? He’s certainly going to find out.

Somewhere in the back of his mind, Link remembers his soulmate and how he has yet to find them among the expanse of the surface. But he steels his nerves. If the world is destroyed, there wouldn't be any soulmate to continue finding. They probably don’t even know of the issue.

With their safety in mind, Link doesn’t have it in himself to look back.

***

Link finds a group of heroes. Interestingly, they all share the same name, so they opt for nicknames or titles. They call him Sky. This group, these boys all protect the surface time and time again because of his failure to shut up Demise in the first place. Most are younger than him. Only a select few are older. Many took the blade before they were teenagers- although Link can’t tell who did what. All he gathered was that the average age of taking up the blade is 11. But he has a suspicion that a few of the members were even younger.

It makes him sick.

Still, they have earned his trust and they all have a common goal. Fi seems to like them as well- although he’s not sure how they managed to bring the Master Sword on the journey. They let him carry her the most and for that he is grateful. It feels comforting, although he’s also learned that he perhaps is the only one to think that way.

And then, while he travels, when he least expects it. You’re thrown into the mix up.

You were running from monsters, screaming at first before you turned around grabbed a stick and started fighting back as hard as you could.

Link had to remind himself to stop staring once they were patching you up. As you explained your story, Link heard none of it. He took in your every detail, your voice, your clothes. You’ve grown just as much as he has since that first day in Souls Cove.

His fingers trace over the little stone he’s collected on that day. He’s never let it be found missing from his person. He carries it everywhere, just to hear you. But now it’s gone silent. Why would it speak? You’re right here in front of him.

You’re battered and bruised, but it appears that your ego had taken most of the blow. You seem annoyed with yourself as you get more passionate in complaining about the situation you’ve found yourself in.

Someone elbows him, hard. “Close your mouth. You’ll start drooling.”

Link wipes his chin just in case and shuts his mouth with an audible click. He turns to the young man next to him. Blond like most of them and strong hearted. They ended up calling him The Captain for his previous war experience. “I’m not drooling.”

“I know.” He says with a knowing glint in his eyes. “But we don’t need you starting. It’s a miracle they haven’t caught you yet. You suck at being subtle. Are you even trying?”

Link’s face warms. Of course he wasn’t trying. It didn’t even occur to him. “Shut up.”

“Any reason they’ve caught your attention?” The Captain asks, keeping that annoying, knowing smirk on his face. “You haven’t stopped staring since they showed up.”

Link coughs. He hasn’t disclosed to any of them about his soulmate. It didn’t take a genius to realize that they don’t have the same concept. It’s hard to reach Souls Cove directly from the surface anyway. And as much as it pains Link to realize it, he’s embarrassed to share his very common truth.

“They’re the most beautiful person I’ve ever seen in my life.” He admits softly. 

His admission takes The Captain by surprise- his teasing mode only marginally dashed. But then it returns. “Then go say hello.”

“What!? No.” Link shuts it down. How on earth is he going to do that? Is he supposed to go up to you and say “hello, my name is Link and I’m your soulmate. I’ve been in love with you since I was fifteen and I know what your favorite childhood toy is, what your dream job is and your happiest memory.” Yeah, right. You don’t know how he is. He’d ruin everything before it even starts.

“Why not? It’s easy.” The Captain begins to push him forward.

“No” Link tries to dig his feet into the ground. “No. No! Warrior!”

His yelling starts to gather some attention from the others. The one they call The Veteran raises an eyebrow and crosses his arms. “What are you doing to Sky? Hasn’t he been spellbound enough by them?”

“If he’s going to stare, he might as well introduce himself.” Warrior adds with no shame in his voice. “I’m just giving him the push he needs.”

“Is that so?” The Vet starts stalking towards the two of them. Sky can feel his impending doom descend upon him.

“Legend, not you too!” He begs.

It’s futile. The two of them push and borderline carry him to where you are and plop unceremoniously in front of you. His footing is weird and he leans a little closer into your personal space than he’d like to and he overcompensates by throwing himself backwards, nearly tripping over Wolfie in the process.

You see everything. Naturally.

Link coughs and rights himself as fast as he can. He makes eye contact and freezes.

You freeze too.

Your eyes widen slightly and your jaw drops just enough to make your gaze as innocent and shocked as possible. Link thinks he sees your cheeks darken but perhaps he is projecting. His face is on fire as it is. The first time he gets to see you in full color, in person, in the flesh and he makes a total idiot out of himself.

He sticks his hand out. “Hi. My name is Link…”

They stare at him just as, if not, more so intently than he was staring at them. The awkward silence stretches on. They don’t react.

Link can feel himself growing more self conscious by the second. Was this how he wanted it to go? No. Was he given much of a choice? Also no.

Thankfully after another pregnant pause they also take his hand. It hangs loosely and limply, almost like a dead fish. It’s not something that Link wants to equivocate it with- but once the idea was in his head he found that he couldn’t fully get rid of it. He shakes it anyway.

“I’m sorry.” Link says and he realizes belatedly that he has no idea where he’s going with this. Think of something. Quick! “...I don’t think I caught your name.”

You blush and it takes his breath away.

He’s never been overly fond of the color red- even if it matches his loftwing but this? This is absolutely lovely. It’s the most perfect color for you. Link can’t think of anything else that would add to just how perfect you appear in his eyes.

You say your name and Link repeats it just as softly as you say it. It’s just as lovely to hear as it is to have it roll off of his tongue. Link smiles and shakes your hand, holding it gently within his grasp. “It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

You shy away curling in on yourself. At first he thinks that you’re afraid of him or that he’s done something wrong to make you uncomfortable- which is more than well deserved, a voice tells him in the back of his head. But instead you smile.

“Link…” You say his name at last. His heart begins pounding erratically. He can feel his smile widen as his eyes brighten.

Someone coughs from behind him and he’s doused with the cold reality that you’re not alone.

“We’re all named Link to be honest.” Four adds with a grin. “But we all have nicknames. Mine is Four or the Blacksmith or Smithy. I respond to all of them. This one right here is called Sky.”

Four smacks his side with the back of his hand. 

Link loses his nerve and steps aside. His eyes still follow you even though others have taken over the conversation. By the looks of it, you’re going to be traveling with them since you’ve been dragged along for the adventure.

It makes sense now that he thinks about it. If hadn’t joined this cause, this group, he would have never met you.

He’s been waiting this whole life for this opportunity. He knows that you don’t know him but he can get to know you, be your friend.

And maybe you’ll love him too someday.

[misspelledwordswizard]

Chapter 18 - Damn adorable demonic kittens!

Previous chapter / Next chapter

Sky was quick to drag everyone into the knight academy as he returned to Pumpkin Landing for the penultimate time. It would take at most an hour for everyone to be gathered at Skyloft, but it was already getting dark and it wouldn’t be good for us to stay outside because of the monsters.

Wind was the first to protest against this, saying that they were heroes and a few monsters wouldn’t be a problem, and that it was their duty to rid the residents of it, but the chosen hero warned him, saying that the problem wouldn’t be facing them, and that the “nice kittens” he had been playing with during the day wouldn’t be so nice anymore. Even though he wasn’t very convinced, the Sailor let that pass and went in with the others.

I waved to Sky, in a brief farewell as he headed back to his Loftwing. Poor thing, he must be exhausted and it will still be a while before he can rest. Entering the academy, it seemed... empty. The hero commented a little on this. Everyone in Skyloft was going through a major move to the surface, that is, Hyrule, and it was taking a little longer than they would like. So, the islands in the sky were still quite busy, but the vast majority of the residents, especially the knights, were mostly on the surface helping with the construction of the kingdom.

That was also why we were able to use the borrowed rooms, since they were empty, and some were no longer even used by their original owners. It was interesting to walk through these corridors, I knew them well, but the feeling of actually being in them was totally different, kind of comforting. It was also because of the lack of knights that it was so difficult to get help, Pipit was the only one around at the time, but he was still a great help, it would have been much worse for poor Sky if he hadn’t been here.

The kitchen and dining room were lovely, Mrs. Henya was still there and welcomed us gladly, getting ready to start preparing a meal, which Wild was happy to help with. The others spread out to explore the place and see where we would be staying. From the looks of it, only the guides and staff of the place were here, so the rooms were empty. Evidently Sky would be staying in his own room, he was willing to share it but I don’t think there would be a problem with the number of people.

The rooms were empty, only the furniture was left there, Mrs.Henya instructed me to stay in Karane’s old bedroom upstairs, it would be better to stay in a room with a “feminine aura”, whatever that means.

Having already decided on my own room, I didn’t bother exploring and stayed in the kitchen to help. I cut some vegetables that would go into the stew while listening to the woman and the Champion exchange tips and recipes.

— Hey, there’s a bunk bed here! I’ll sleep on the top one! – Wind exclaimed excitedly. God, he’s happy with so little, I’ve shared a bunk bed with my brother a few times in my life, on trips or things like that, and it’s not as fun as it seems, especially when the one on top moves so much that the wood creaks all night.

— Then we’ll sacrifice Four to stay on the bottom bunk, good luck to him. – The Captain commented laughing while receiving a sullen look from the younger.

— He won’t like this decision being made without him being there. – Twilight added.

The front door creaked and opened, revealing the downfall duo looking almost pitiful. Legend and Hyrule were covered in cat scratches, even their tunics were damaged, the Veteran’s hat was not unharmed, with a large tear. The two panted and closed the door behind them as quickly as they could. Whatever had happened outside during the night, I’m sure it confirmed the seriousness of the residents’ warning about not going out at this time. These Remlits were not messing around.

— These cats are psychopaths! – Legend exclaimed exaggeratedly as he finally stepped away from the door, which the duo held to ensure it remained closed.

— I don’t know how Sky hasn’t been hit once. – Rulie commented as he delicately touched a scratch on his cheek and used some of his magic to heal it.

Obviously, the entrance of the dynamic duo caught everyone’s attention, we gathered to watch the situation of our newly arrived friends, who appreciate, in addition to being mutilated by kittens, exhausted.

— You look like you just got out of a fight with a tiger. – I commented, worried and disappointed at the same time.

— A what? – The Veteran asked confused.

— Never mind.

I approached the two and pulled them by the wrist to the dining table, being careful not to hit na injured area. I made them sit down and got a damp cloth with soap and water to clean their wounds. By this time, everyone had dispersed again, to different parts of the academy . It seems that Wars and Twi went to the Sparring Hall to train and burn off energy, I just hope they watch out for the demonic kittens on the way. Since the Traveler was already treating his worst injuries, I went to Legend to help him, with a lot of complaints on his part, of course.

— Ouch! Be careful, that stings.

— Well, if you want to get an infection, I can stop it without any problems.

— Urgh, that’s not what I meant! Just be more gentle...

I chose not to answer, but I tried my best to be gentle so I could clean the wounds and not hurt him even more. He seemed to calm down, even though he still didn’t seem happy at all. Hyrule behaved much better when I cleaned his, even though he could heal himself, and that he would use it on the deepest ones, I wanted to make sure that the less serious ones would stay that way, without presenting future dangers. He also treated Legend’s worst ones, who thanked him without complaining. Maybe the complaints were to me.

The food was almost ready, the boys were properly patched up, the pair that went out to train had returned and everyone was gathering at the table when the last of us finally arrived. Time, Four, and Sky, along with Pipit, walked through the front door – unharmed – and were greeted with warm cheers and smiles as we invited them to join us at the table. With everyone gathered, the food was served. I don’t think I’ve ever been at a table as full as this one in my life, it was fun, and lots of conversations were going on.

The residents of Skyloft told us about what life was like there and also asked about what it was like on the surface, very curious about our customs and cultures. They were quite interested in the subject of different races, Zoras, Ritos, Gorons, Koroks, Gerudos, everything was new to them. Of course, our group was also curious about them, especially the islands in the sky, the loftwings and their culture. Laughter was heard occasionally when someone told a story of their unique adventures and entertained everyone.

— Speaking of islands, is there an island with, I don’t know, maybe a lot of bugs? – Legend threw the question at the inhabitants of Skyloft, drawing their attention.

— Or maybe a heart-shaped one?! – Wild added. Those who didn’t know about the bet were visibly confused, while the others held back their laughter, prepared for a comical failure for both sides.

— Hm, well... we have Bug Paradise Island, so yes, we have an island full of bugs. – Sky replied thoughtfully, trying to imagine a reason for his brothers’ sudden interest in these things.

Without another word, Legend abruptly stood up from the table, walked over to Wild, who was stunned in shock, raised his open hand high and hit Wild’s face hard, scaring most of them, until he burst out laughing. The others only didn’t start surfing at the sudden action due to the Old Man’s calm, who remained static without caring about the violent joke of the younger ones.

— Don’t worry, it was a bet, they agreed to it. – I reassured the others, still wanting to kill the Veteran for having done that at dinner.

Wind was the first to smile and laugh at the Champion’s sullen face for having lost. I think the slap was the one that hurt the least. Soon everyone was coming out of their state of shock and either laughing at the situation or shaking their heads in disappointment at the childishness. I think it’s better not to say that the idea was mine.

The biggest real surprise, at least for me and for the rest of the Chain who knew the Vet very well, was what came next. He left Wild’s side, still smiling, and approached me, leaning over and placing a chaste kiss on my cheek. I was the one who was in shock now. And the boys too, for both me and them, seeing the Veteran do that was much more surprising than seeing him slap someone.

— Your reward for giving me the chance to participate in this great bet AND win! Don’t get used to it. – He said and left, going around the table to sit in his place.

After a few minutes, things calmed down and everyone went back to eating and talking, but my mind was too busy processing this unusual event. I think I’ll have to make more bets like this in the future.

After dinner, the decision about room allocation was finalized. Four ended up agreeing to share the bunk bed with Wind and I got na entire room just for myself, which was great since I would finally have some privacy. And, my greatest moment of happiness came at that moment too; Upstairs there’s a huge bathtub where I can wash myself. Sky told me, but I kind of already knew, but thanks to him I didn’t have to act dumb and ask.

As soon as I said goodnight to everyone, I went straight there. After so much time bathing in rivers and lakes, a bathtub with hot, clean water was like a divine gift waiting for me. Luckily, I had a way to lock the door and avoid unpleasant surprises for anyone who didn’t know I was there. I undressed and got into the bathtub, feeling the warm water grace my skin and relax my muscles. Oh, how happy I was.

I managed to clean myself and wash my hair. I must have stayed there for almost half an hour, but I can’t keep a precise notion of time when I’m relaxing. I put on my secondary clothes, at least the lightest part of them, and left the room that was already stifling with hot steam. I took my dirty clothes to something that resembled a washing machine and washed them by hand.

I must have stayed like this for another twelve minutes, then I finally rinsed them and hung them to dry outside the academy. I went back inside and went straight to my room, feeling my body exhausted and my arms sore. Everything had been very calm lately, as good as it was, I couldn’t help but worry, thinking that maybe this was the calm before the storm.

I lay down on the comfortable bed, relaxing my body. The room was empty, in the game it looked so colorful and lively, but now the whole Skyloft seemed almost abandoned. It’s good that they’re going to the surface and building Hyrule, but it’s sad that such a beautiful place like this is left behind. And the loftwings, oh, poor things, will be left here without anyone. Well, at least for now we can still enjoy a little of what’s left of this kingdom in the sky.

◇

Morning arrived and I was soon up, making the bed in which I slept, incredibly waking up early. Opening the window, the sun’s rays filled the small room and I felt myself filled with energy, ready for anything. I walked down the stairs excitedly and saw some of the boys already awake having breakfast.

— Good morning! You woke up early. – I commented, observing the surroundings. Wind, Wars, Four and Wild were awake, at least it was expected that Sky would take a little longer than usual, while the others must be exhausted, so it’s fair.

— Oh, the smell of the Cook’s food woke me up! – Wars explained.

— I was hungry, so I came to have a snack when I woke up.

— I could barely sleep, I want to go out and explore, but they’re making me eat first! – Wind complained.

— Yeah, I noticed you were excited, the bunk bed moves so much that I was afraid it would break and crush me to death. – Four commented, grumpily.

I laughed at their answers and joined them at the table, helping myself to some deliciously smelling poached eggs and toast. As soon as the youngest finished eating, he left through the front door, faster than lightning. Not wanting him to be left alone and unsupervised, I hurriedly swallowed my food, nearly choking in the process, and followed the Sailor to wherever he was going. To my surprise, he was standing outside, staring at the door I had come out of, waiting.

— I knew you would come after me, I felt sorry for causing you trouble and waited. He explained himself and approached me, grabbing my arm and happily pulling me out of the knights academy. – Come on, I want to explore the little shops and the waterfall! Oh, and you have to see what the big-eared kittens can do!

— Okay, okay! Go ramble on a little longer, or else I’ll end up throwing up. Even saying that, I was dragged to the center of Skyloft, entering the bazaar to see the shops. The Sailor was interested in the potion shop, going there and analyzing all the options, while I also looked next to him without really much interest as I recovered from the morning walk. He was quite curious about the possibility of increasing the effects of a potion, but I had to hold him back so as not to waste unnecessary money. If we need potions, let the people responsible for buying or making them buy them.

After convincing Wind to leave the Bazaar, we headed to the eastern part of the island. On the way, the Sailor made a point of petting a Remlit who was sunbathing, which made the kitty follow us to our destination in search of more attention. I wanted to complain about it, but I’m too weak to resist this cuteness. It hardly seems like he was one of the people responsible for ending two great heroes last night.

We continued on until we got close to the river, lake, whatever it was, where there were some flat rocks made for us to cross by jumping. The little brat loved the idea, as soon as he saw it he started jumping excitedly from rock to rock and was soon on the other side, waving for me to hurry up. I picked the feline up in my arms – yes, I’m weak when it comes to these cute little things – and started jumping, not very sure of myself, which made me lose my balance for a moment, but I soon regained my composure and made it to the end.

I was going to carefully put Remlit on the ground, but Wind took him from my arms and threw him in the air excitedly, the kitty just did a blackfip and landed gracefully.

— Don’t worry, Sky showed me this before, I wouldn’t have done it if I didn’t know he was going to be okay! – He reassured me, but I wasn’t really worried, because I knew that very well, so I had to pretend to be surprised.

— Those are some really adorable little creatures. I wonder how that duo managed to lose to them. – I scoffed sarcastically. Only the goddess knows how scared I was the first time I saw a Remlint at night.

The Sailor laughed, agreeing with me, and then we climbed closer to the waterfall, sitting by the lake to enjoy the atmosphere. I doubt it will last long, with Wind’s hyperactivity, but all this peace and quiet was really nice. I better not let him notice the cave up ahead.

— This is so crazy, a waterfall falling from a floating island and flowing into another floating island! I’ve been to many islands in my adventures, but nothing like Skyloft. – He commented enchantedly, looking up and analyzing it better.

— It’s really impressive, and very beautiful. After some more time admiring the landscape, playing with and petting the feline that accompanied us, I saw Wind move to get something from his bag. He took out a pot full of rice balls and offered them to me.

— Wild made these for me to take before you woke up. They’re really good! – He explained, making me laugh as I took one of the cupcakes and put it in my mouth.

— Delicious! Well, everything he makes is delicious. – I said, promptly taking another bit.

— Really. I mean, except for the time he punished us by putting a bunch of Goron spice in our food just because we played a prank. – He said with a pout, remembering that day that I didn’t witness. For them to have managed to irritate him, it must have been something pretty serious.

Some more time passed until the food was finished. It must have been around noon now, the sun was warm and hitting us comfortably. A planet without global warming is truly wonderful. I threw myself back, lying on the grass and closing my eyes. From the sound I heard next, Wind imitated my idea, so we stayed there, just enjoying the gentle breeze, the warmth of the sun and the sound of the unique nature of Skyloft.

The only thing that made me open my eyes momentarily was feeling little paws under my belly. Little Remlit insisted on climbing on top of me, just like all cats, it was painful. I don’t know how, but they seem tem times heavier when they do that. He didn’t seem to care about my suffering, stepping on me without any problems, circling me and then lying down, ready to take a nap and use me as a bed.

I just sighed and shrugged, it’s the price to pay to have a moment of cuteness with na adorable kitty like that. But what caught my attention was the snoring next to me, the Sailor fell asleep so peacefully, he must have been exhausted after spending the whole night tossing and turning in bed. I guess it doesn’t hurt to let him rest.

I myself began to feel sleep overtaking me with all this calmness, my eyes felt heavy as I looked at the blue sky and stroked the furry feline that slept on my body. Two of the three of us had already given in to sleep, and I wasn’t far behind them. Well, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with getting some sleep. After eating and being in such a safe and peaceful place, it’s only natural to take a nap. Or maybe I’m starting to be influenced by Sky’s habits. I think I saw him almost falling asleep in the chair at dinner yesterday.

No longer having the strength to fight it, I let myself relax, the sun serving as my blanket, the breeze gently caressing me and the symphony of nature serving as my natural sedative. I closed my eyes again and took a deep breath, feeling the tension leave me. I couldn’t move much, since I had a tenant using my body as a mattress, but that was okay, the tiredness hit me hard enough to make me forget about it completely. Finally, I began to lose consciousness, ready to let sleep take me. Little by little I was no longer able to hear the sounds or even feel the heat of the sun, all I felt was my mind fading away and giving way to enigmatic dreams.

◇

It was mid-afternoon when we returned to the knight academy, both of us with burnt skin from sleeping under the sun. It stung so much. I should have learned last time, what I wouldn’t do for sunscreen in this time.

Now not only was I redder than a pepper, but Wind was too, although he didn’t seem too bothered, because even though he was a little red he was more tanned. Lucky. Still, even the light breeze hitting us was enough to make us shiver in pain, it felt like several razors cutting our skin. I concluded that it would be better to go back and spend the rest of the day in the shade, that way maybe we would recover a little by night. Sleeping with burning skin is a big challenge.

— We’re back! – I announced when we walked through the door, but the only ones there were Four and Hyrule.

— Hylia, what happened to you guys? – Rulie questioned and approached, ready to use his magic.

— Sun, but you don’t need to worry, don’t waste your energy on this.

— I disagree, you can use it, I’m all burning up! – Wind contradicted my excuse and stretched out his arms for the Traveler to use his magic.

— I can cast a spell to relieve the pain, so you don’t suffer and I don’t use much magic. But you’ll still be red. – He offered, his hands already shining, ready to begin.

— Hm... Okay, it’s a fair price to pay. – I accepted the offer, it was good and I’m not at all interested in continuing like this.

With that, he guided us to sit down while he took care of us and Four laughed at the comical situation. The sensation of Hyrule’s magic on my skin was refreshing, I felt all the burning sensation leave me and be replaced by relief. Magic is a reality something more, it’s practical and useful, it’s no wonder they don’t feel the need to develop great technology around here, when you have magic everything becomes easier. Even if not everyone has access to it. I myself wasn’t used to interacting with magic until I met the boys.

Finally he finished the job, both on me and the younger boy. We were released by the doctor and Wind soon ran outside, saying he was going to train in the same place the boys used yesterday. Well, at least he would burn off energy until nightfall.

— And where are the others? – I asked the two who were left in the room.

— Most of them went out to explore, Sky went flying with his loftwing and Legend must be in the room doing who knows what. – Four answered me, making me curious about the last one mentioned.

Bored, I decided to take a look at it. Maybe he was just sleeping, but he’s not the type to sleep that much, especially after spending so much time unconscious. I went towards the room he was sharing with the Traveler, knocking softly on the door with my knuckles, so that he would hear if he was awake, but wouldn’t wake him up if he wasn’t. To my surprise, or not so much, a low voice answered, giving me permission to enter. I opened the door delicately, a little shy for entering like that out of nowhere out of nothing more than curiosity.

When I opened the door I could see the man sitting on the floor, wearing only his black robe. He had the red tunic in his hands and seemed totally focused on what he was doing, his habeas hands moved with speed and precision, using the needle with mastery and mending each of the tears that had been made recently. He seemed to finally notice my presence, his gaze slowly turning to me, then his expression went from curiosity to surprise in the blink of na eye.

— Oh, it’s you. – His voice was calm, but he didn’t say it in a bad way, of disappointment or anything like that, just surprise.

— It’s me...

I didn’t really know what to say, I didn’t expect to see him there sewing with such concentration and skill. I didn’t expect the Veteran to know how to do something like that, I mean, it makes sense, he had to live alone when he was very young when the only person he had died, which makes it very sad. But it’s really cool that he knows how to do these homemade things, it breaks a little of the reckless and bully young man air that he usually exudes. It also makes him great husband material.

— Are they badly damaged? – I commented, taking him out of the trance he seemed to be in and making him turn his attention to the piece of clothing on his lap, breaking the eye contact we had been making during that moment of silence.

— Hm, yeah, it’s kind of annoying to fix, but not difficult. – He commented as he analyzed me. – What happened to you? You look like a lobster, you’re so red. – I rolled my eyes at his comment.

— The Sun is cruel to me. – I said with my head down. – I wouldn’t mind helping, I’m free anyway. – I commented, distracting myself by shyly playing with my hair, not wanting to look directly at him. I don’t have many skills with that, so my help won’t make much difference.

— Sure, that would be nice. – I was surprised by his answer, but smiled knowing I could help. – There’s a lot of stuff and I don’t feel like spending the whole day here. Oh, can you ask the Traveler for his green tunic? It also needs some repairs.

I readily agreed and left the room for a moment, heading towards where I had met Rulie a few minutes ago, but the place was empty. I looked around once more, and when there was no sign of him, I went out the door and searched the surroundings of the academy. Nothing. Damn Hyrule, why complicate my life?

I went back inside, running through the hallways, only to stop abruptly when I remembered that warning not to run there that I had seen in the game once. I quickly climbed the spiral staircase, reaching the top panting breathlessly, good heavens, now I understand Sky. I continued down the hallway, going out to the balcony of the building, and finally found my target.

I approached him, who was observing the serene landscape without even noticing my presence. At least that’s what I thought, until I noticed his ear twitch at the sound of my footsteps as I approached, even without turning to see me he seemed quite aware of my presence. I stopped next to him and turned my attention to where he was looking; the horizon.

No matter how many times I watched it, I always lost my breath when I saw the beauty of Skyloft and the islands in the sky in general. But the view from here still wasn’t the best, it would be appropriate for us to go up higher, to the statue of Hylia, to appreciate the landscape properly. It was with this in mind that I made my next moves.

I gently held the hand of the man next to me, and only then did he look at me, with the sweetest smile I had ever seen on six lips. This distracted me for a second, but I finally regained my focus and began to guide him along the path that led to the statue. We climbed the wooden stairs side by side and after a few minutes of suffering on my part, we were at the top.

Passing through the stone structure with an archway, our vision was taken by the gigantic statue of the goddess Hylia, which was visible from all over Slyloft, but in person it was another level. He seemed impressed and delighted by this, looking at her intently, but that wasn’t my goal, so I continued guiding him further to the side, where there wouldn’t be a wall blocking the view.

The sound of surprise – adorable – that he made when he saw the view was worth it, which was totally fair, since the view was truly breathtaking. You could see the entire island from here, it was the perfect position to contemplate and well isolated from everything, everything looked harmonic from here.

— This is beautiful. – The Traveler commented, admiring the incredible view in front of us even more.

— Yeah, it always takes my breath away.

— Have you been here before?

— Oh, I came earlier today, that’s all! – I gave a lame excuse, hoping he wouldn’t notice.

I always end up making these mistakes, I get distracted and end up saying more than I should, and I’m on the verge of being discovered or raising suspicions. I always forget. Forget... HOLY SHIT I FORGOT.

— Rulie! I need your green tunic! – I said suddenly, scaring the poor guy and almost knocking him down, but I caught him in time to avoid this catastrophe. – Sorry! I came to ask for your tunic to take to the Vet, he’ll sew the tears.

— Oh, okay, okay. – He said as he stepped away from the edge and took off the outermost tunic, folding it and handing it to me.

— Thank you, I’ll bring it to you when it’s finished being fixed! I said and ran back the way we came. Legend must be mad at me for taking so long, may the goddess protect me. I stumbled down the stairs, but managed to get to the ground floor in one piece, rushing in and scaring the boy who was still on the floor, now taking care of his hat.

— Damn, what’s up?!

— Sorry, I got carried away. – I apologized and went in, showing the tunic in my hands.

— I thought you wouldn’t even come back. What took you so long? – He, surprisingly, seemed just curious, not angry.

— Oh, I got distracted by Rulie... – I commented, trying to hide my blushing cheeks of embarrassment for having forgotten something so basic.

— Oh, right. – His tone became dry and discouraged, I wonder what I said wrong.

I sighed, closing the door behind me, and entering the room, sitting next to him. He didn’t look away again, focused on the sewing, to try to help I took a needle and thread from his materials and started sewing too. He didn’t seem to mind so I continued. I might not be as skilled as him, but I was good enough.

It was comforting to do a manual activity in a calm like this, the Veteran’s company made me feel comfortable, it was like a safe haven where I could be myself. Or almost. Maybe one day I can really be myself with him and the others.