#Yunobo is confused

[sheikfangirl]

Goddessdammit Linky, pull yourself together!! I headcanon that after the "The Dragon's Tears" and "Crisis at Hyrule Castle" quests, Link's behavior is so erratic and self-destructive that Purah and the sages strap him to chair and make an INTERVENTION!! They are WORRIED!! 😢 Poor Link misses Zelda so much💔💔💔

But! he has FRIENDS and they CARE FOR HIM ♥♥ ------

PS: Yup, it's a shameless homage to Edna Mode

[waywardsalt]

ok i need to get this off my chest abt totk's dungeon soundtracks this isnt necessarily a criticism but just a... idk man its confusing hang on

ok. totk's dungeon themes. theyre good im not going to lie they arent my favorite of the series but totk did deliver some good dungeon themes. what i'm confused about is the choice to use the champion's and divine beast's leitmotifs in the dungeons, like using daruks theme and bits of rudania's theme for the fire temple. that's the first that comes to mind cuz thats the one i like best but i think it was especially noticeable to me for the wind temple, the water temple's theme has some similar instrumentation and some very similar sounding phrases and when i see comments or people talking abt the dungeon themes it is very common to see people talk about the champion and divine beast leitmotifs being used.

and like. fine it sounds nice there is an emotional connection there if you have played botw but like. why are their fucking leitmotifs in totk's dungeon themes???

if you give a character or something a leitmotif, then that little string of notes represents that character or location or concept. usage of that leitmotif is therefore intrinsically tied to that character or whatever. this worked out with zelda's theme throughout the series, esp in totk when it's given the instrumentation of the dragon's themes, so that musical phrase at that moment basically says 'zelda, but a dragon' and like. yknow. leitmotif that literally represents something.

i believe the wind temple's theme incorporates some of rito villages theme, and in turn rito village having the same melody as dragon roost island makes sense, that's effectively a motif meant to represent the rito, like the reoccurring zora's domain and goron city motifs throughout the series, or hyrule castle. when characters have themes in past zelda games that play at different times, it means something about the character being referenced. midna's lament using midna's theme to show that this scene is about midna, she is in danger. fi's different themes playing when she is the center of attention or her leitmotif referenced in botw/totk when she literally makes subtle cameos. linebeck's theme only every plays in scenes where he has some sort of big moment or in the final boss theme because it's only fair that the final boss theme include the motif that represents him because he is the final boss. groose's theme shows up various times in his little scenes (and i believe there might be hints of it in later imprisoned themes?? i'd have to check but it would make sense since he's helping)

so... if you reuse a leitmotif that is tied to something, then reasonably that means that the context in which it's being reused is somehow related to or concerning what that leitmotif represents.

but... daruk's theme and some bits reminiscent of rudania's theme play in the fire temple's theme. reasonably, i would hear this and be like, ah, so this has something to do with daruk, or the divine beast? the usage of his character leitmotif suggests that he is related to this somehow. thats... usually the point of using a character leitmotif like was done in the fire temple's theme!

and yet the champions and divine beasts are not so much as referenced in totk's stories, and you can't even try to the point of their themes being used due to the new sages being relatives, because tulin is not related to revali- he doesn't even get the great eagle bow until after the dungeon, and still no reference to revali is made when he gets it.

so then... why are we referencing botw's champions if they do not matter? why not use the sage's leitmotifs in the dungeon themes instead? the dungeons are much more related to the new sages, and it would allow players to become more familiar to that leitmotif, and would further tie the experience to that dungeon with its related sage, instead of tying it to dead characters that mean jack shit to the story of totk.

it's just really weird that they use motifs from the champions and divine beasts, since that won't click for people who didn't play botw, and it just calls back to stuff not important to totk anyways. the divine beasts have literally no relation to the dungeons, the champions are barely even relevant to the world in totk. i get that the leitmotifs were used as like... maybe some sort of extra pre-existing racial connection motifs, but... use the sage's themes? don't use leitmotifs that have absolutely nothing to do with this game or it's story? sure it sounds nice but the meaning behind those leitmotifs make no actual sense in this new context, unless you're trying to suggest that they actually have a different meaning than being the motifs of the characters and locations that were originally what they were used for.

[lu-fic-recommendation-of-the-day]

Any good “The Chain Meets Age (age of calamity) Link?” It’s fine if he has other names I just call him that

A Timeline Over to Find Some Closure by @the-au-collector

Summary:

After the lackluster visit to the temple, the Chain finds themselves in a new Hyrule just as disagreements run high between them. When one of their own is injured and their life hangs in the balance, the Chain must confront their own issues--and each other--before time runs out.

featuring: Age of Calamity Link, Wild's fucked up past, and even more time travel headaches for everyone!

Oh How I Forgot What It's Like by @snail-studios

Summary:

Trapped in Ruta, faced with a shard of Ganon, injured, afraid– Mipha is sure she’s going to die. Until she’s rescued by nine strange boys- one of whom looks identical to her best friend and love of her life. Things just get weirder from there.

OR

Instead of Sidon, Yunobo, Riju and Teba, the Chain are the ones to rescue the Champions. With help from an ocarina, Terakko and a lot of red potions, chaos and family bonding ensues.

(And Age is just confused and absolutely not jealous, thank you very much. He’s just worried for his girlfriend, as he should be. Duh.)

Wayward Son by Serenity_V

Summary:

For a moment, Wild thought time must have passed too quickly in his world since the Chain had last set foot there, and he had somehow missed most of Castle Town’s reconstruction, not to mention Flora growing her hair back out. Then, he saw…himself.

OR the Chain gets dropped into AoC universe. Conversations ensue.

How To Build Friendships (side effects include getting emotionally destroyed) by El_Marnie

Summary:

The Chain ends up in a familiar Hyrule, but this isn't what Wild's era usually looks like.

The Chain-Meets-Age fic that no one asked for. YOU STILL HAVE TO READ IT THOUGH HA HA HA-

Does my writing style change multiple times throughout this thing? Yes, yes it does. I'm not sure why it's doing that. Please ignore it.

Tags will update as the story does. Content warnings in chapter notes. Archive warnings will probably change as I hurl these boys headlong into a violent bloodbath.

Also, yes, I KNOW it's another Wild-centric fic about Time being his dad but it's MY self-indulgent fanfics okay and I happen to LIKE Wild and YOU STILL HAVE TO READ IT HA HA HA HA

Age of Calamity by K3ttl3_gurl_784

Summary:

A new Link will join the ranks of the Chain. How will Wild take to his new position as mentor, and how will his successor view him?

________________________________________________________________________________________________ His name would be Calamity.

Scrubbed Clean by MarcusDoodlesALot

Summary:

They didn't expect this new Link. They didn't expect him to be a version of Wild, they didn't expect him to be so shy and quiet, and they didn't expect him to have nearly Pure White wings.

[nolongerapileofashprobably]

Just like how botw had small details telling us the probable ‘canonical’ route Link took (aka Zora, Rito, Goron, and then Gerudo), totk has something similar. I’m sure all players noticed that the newspapers will feature one region that is meant to direct Link to go aid the people there. First is Rito, next is Goron, third is Zora, and last is Gerudo. BUT! They also added something else.

Zelda’s role in the story. Namely, her interactions with Tulin, Yunobo, King Dorephan, and Riju. Annnnnnddd Link’s reactions to her!

Tulin’s interaction with her is one meant to confuse players: Zelda was in the past, but Tulin saw her? So she’s here in the present and we’re chasing after her. Sounds a lot like Skyward Sword, okay (which was released on the switch last year, so anyone who didn’t play it back in 2012 had another chance to). It confuses Link, but spurs him to become a journalist ? Cool, I’m here for it. I did journalism for 4 years, I’m sure Link can do it too!

Then, for Yunobo, he actively speaks to Zelda, we see her figure, and Link will actively gasp whenever we see her. He has a genuine reaction to her presence, because he’s surprised, but then we see pink gloom glow in the mask that Zelda have Yunobo and it makes him freak out land turn against Link. That’s when we start to put together that maybe Zelda is being controlled? Or she’s NOT Zelda, just as Yunobo begins to theorize but can’t quite wrap his head around it.

Next, we have King Dorephan who is actually attacked by Zelda and is injured to the point that he decides to hide from his people as to not create more chaos in this time. He chooses to give Zelda the benefit of the doubt here— he could have easily had his people turn against Hyrule and all Hylians because of Zelda’s actions. But he doesn’t! Because it simply doesn’t make sense. And by the end of the quest, Sidon comes to the conclusion that the Zelda in the past and the Zelda in the present are NOT the same.

And we see that thought truly stick with Link in a cutscene in Gerudo. After defending Kara Kara Bazaar, Zelda appears and Riju calls out for her. There is no gasp from Link like with Yunobo’s story, instead he watches Zelda with a slightly narrowed gaze and does not stop watching where she was last seen until Riju directly addresses him. They actively show the players that Link is suspicious, but he is still so very dedicated.

And it happens again, in the center of the light triangle. Zelda appears and Link begins to walk toward her, but there is no intake of breath, no shock at seeing her… instead he slowly walks until Riju calls out for him.

After Link finishes each phenomenon, going to Lookout Landing gives the players a clue in how Link is reacting. Specifically, if you speak to Buliara before going to see Purah, she says something along the lines of “Purah is up on the top deck, but don’t miss a wrung in your haste to get up there.”

Link is expected to rush. Because everyone is muttering about a figure that MIGHT be Zelda. At the castle. Right. Then. And. There.

Link GASPS when he first looks into the scope— Purah doesn’t even say it’s Zelda, not before Link sees for himself. It’s seeing her, clear as day, and even if Link KNOWS it’s not her… there’s still that seed of doubt that lives in his mind. And then at the castle, Link does twist and turn whenever he hears Zelda. He rushes after her every. Single. Time. She disappears. Despite that he knows it isn’t her, he can’t give up. He can’t. It’s quite literally not in his DNA. He sees it through; he needs to make sure it isn’t her. And it’s all a trap, one he walks right into, because he just HAS to see that it isn’t her.

And if you want to say “but Ash… this is just a recap of the storyline in the present.. not small details” let us just remember that Link’s driving motivation in this game is to find Zelda and bring her home. So many people just ignore these little moments or miss them completely.

And I’ll be damned if I don’t talk about link’s gasps or his twists and turns or his micro expressions that tell us so much about how he is feeling.

[silentprincessofhyrule]

i always found it weird how so many npcs in totk don’t remember link.

yeah i know i’m not the first person who’s made a rant about this before, but this just really annoys me.

like, what do you mean you don’t remember link, the guy who sealed the calamity? the guy who sealed the 4 divine beasts threatening to destroy your home town?

link, the guy who went all across hyrule helping citizens, the guy who also built terry town? it just makes no sense that some npcs just refer to him as zelda’s knight and don’t know his name, or some just forgot him!!

also, consider this: if everyone remembers zelda, (who hasn’t been exploring hyrule as long as link ever since 100 years ago) then why don’t they remember link? i’m assuming link stayed by zelda’s side as zelda’s chosen protector during post botw to totk. it just dosent make sense.

and don’t get me started on how totk dosent even acknowledge that botw existed. yeah there is some little easter eggs/mini references to botw (like the divine beast helmets) but you know what imo is one of the biggest ‘fraud’ things of all?

how do people not remember the divine beats or sheikah tech at ALL????

this is something that really makes me confused. how in the hyrule does nobody remember those 4 big animal looking robots trying to destroy your land? how does nobody remember the scary creepy guardians scattered all across hyrule? oh, and what about the shrines and those humongous towers all across the land? absolutely nobody acknowledges these things!!

the champions!! practically everybody in botw remember urbosa, mipha, daruk, and revali. however in totk… it seems like they’re forgotten. mipha is out of the question though because she got an entire court built in her memory in totk, but that’s it. during my playthrough of totk, they DID make some references to the champions but it was small. really small. daruk was referenced in the yunobo quest, and his statue in the mountains is still there. urbosa got a mini mention in rijus diary, but that’s it. and now there’s revali. i don’t know if revali was mentioned at all…

in the end, totk itself is a really good game. personally, i don’t really like how the story was handled, this is just 1 aspect i didn’t like.

[supersnaill]

Trapped in Ruta, faced with a shard of Ganon, injured, afraid– Mipha is sure she’s going to die. Until she’s rescued by nine strange boys- one of whom looks identical to her best friend and love of her life. Things just get weirder from there.

OR

Instead of Sidon, Yunobo, Riju and Teba, the Chain are the ones to rescue the Champions. With help from an ocarina, Terakko and a lot of red potions, chaos and family bonding ensues.

(And Age is just confused and absolutely not jealous, thank you very much. He’s just worried for his girlfriend, as he should be. Duh.)

[skyloftian-nutcase]

I've been thinking of an idea on and off about what would have happened if the Chain had met Age of Calamity Wild instead of BOTW Wild, at least at first. Like, I can even imagine at which point of the story it could happen! Terrako (the little egg guardian if you're unaware) has the ability to use the Song of Time, the whole premise of the game is that it went back in time to warn the Champions of the impending doom that the Calamity would bring! During the main campaign, their efforts to prevent the Calamity fail, due in part to monster and Yiga interference as any time Zelda would come close to reaching her power or pray at a spring they would ambush her, and it appears as if the events of BOTW's past would repeat itself. Until Terrako used the Song of Time again to bring the Sidon, Riju, Yunobo, and Teba (with baby Tulin) that we meet in BOTW to the past (inadvertently confirming this as a split timeline as they would likely not have existed or remembered the Link they had met if not for that). What if... instead of bringing a random group of warriors from the future, the song had instead brought a different group of Heroes that were ALREADY traveling through time at around the same time the events in the game were happening?

Terrako summing the Chain would be both hilarious and amazing. Can you imagine, poor Mipha’s about to die and right dudes who nobody recognizes just show up and are like “what the—how did—“ before seeing a giant monster and jumping into action and utterly wrecking Waterblight just as Age rushes in. Everyone would be so confused lol

[dundunny]

Completely forgot to mention that Tears of the Kingdom was finished. I have a lot of mixed feelings toward this game. Let me start off by saying in terms of plot, I think it's superior to Breath of the Wild by far. Ganon actually makes an appearance as a living being you can have emotions about, rather than some sort of nameless force of calamitous nature. The tie between past and future is great, as well as finding out Zelda's actions and her ultimate plan.

The issue is the game is it's a sequel to Breath of the Wild and it constrains what Tears of the Kingdom was trying to do. Let's start off with these floating islands. Where the hell were they in the first game? They sure as hell didn't rise up at the beginning of the game like Hyrule Castle because there are no other giant holes in the ground. No one thinks this is weird? That there are suddenly islands? I also love how no one even really knew about the existence of the Zonai, but suddenly in Tears of the Kingdom everyone and their mother have a PhD in the topic.

The depths is a big discrepancy. Although admittedly pretty cool to explore and kinda creepy the first time around down there, there's literally no point to it. Sure, yeah, 1.5 dungeons are down there and you can get extra equipment, all of that could've easily been written out. Like... even within the plot it doesn't make sense. So the Zonai were flying above in the sky until one day Rauru decided to come down and bang some Hylian priestess. Sure. But before that apparently they were mining in the depths to maintain their society and technology up above? They just... had a major industry and were collecting all these materials and someone no one on the surface noticed these massive amounts of minerals floating back up to the islands above? Honestly I think Nintendo designed the depths to create more content so players didn't realize they were redoing the Breath of the Wild map all over again.

Dungeons were still not of the same level of previous generations, but they were a definite improvement from Breath of the Wild. Probably the closest we got to a traditional Zelda dungeon was the Lightning Temple. I still stand by my stance way back in A Link Between Worlds on lack of linear direction: If you can go to any dungeon at any point, there's no sort of difficulty curve for any of them. Compare say the Deku Tree to the Shadow Temple way back in Ocarina of Time. I actually can beat the Deku Tree without taking any damage, that's how easy it is. But then compared to the confusing nature of the Shadow Temple, I feel a sense of accomplishment when I see how far I've come. Jumping around with Sidon in the sky didn't feel any different than using mine carts in the volcano with Yunobo.

One thing that boggles my mind is they replaced Teba with Tulin. Why? He was probably my favorite dude from Breath of the Wild. Everyone else was the same. Did Nintendo feel with Riju more grown up, little kids don't have representation?

Personally I didn't like the building aspect of the game. The first couple of hours I think I screamed a lot from frustration when some machination I spent ten minutes working on fell apart because I accidentally grabbed the wrong thing. Although I became skilled with it toward the end, it's not my cup of tea, although I can see other people really enjoying it.

Final boss fight was a major upgrade from Breath of the Wild. The fact we had to trade counter attacks, a nod to previous Ganon fights where you had to hit his move back to him, was a really nice touch. Props to Nintendo for that.

After all this, I still prefer Breath of the Wild. Maybe it's because by the time Tears of the Kingdom had come around, I was tired of walking all over this map. If Nintendo had developed Tears of the Kingdom on its own, it could've been very superior. Now I'm hoping they'll get rid of this open world shit and return to the Zelda I know and love, but given how popular Breath of the Wild was, I doubt it.

[imaginethezeldaverse]

How the sages react to the food you make for them 🥰

Some TotK spoilers below, please be warned! 

Sidon is thoroughly impressed! While he’s quite used to having his meals prepared by his staff, he’s enthusiastic about trying a homecooked meal made by your hands. You purposefully snuck behind him to ask Yona what his favorite thing to eat was - come to find it’s crab! With some finesse you managed to whip up some pretty simple crabcakes, something that had the Zora king staring at them with some consternation. Yet after one bite, you watch the shark-like eyes of your friend light up before he scarfed down the rest of it.  “Simply delicious!” he exclaimed, before waving his wife over to try one, “You must share the recipe with my staff members, I’m sure father would enjoy these as well - what a delight!”  For Riju and her court, you decided to make something rather special. Often you'd find the ladies of Gerudo town were not particularly privvy of the cultures on the opposite side of Hyrule, where dairy farms and foods on the fattier side were in much more abundance due to preservation from the hot sun being quite a bit easier. Luckily for you with a few white chuchu jellies you had no issue spinning together a fabulous dessert. A little caramelization mixed with a concoction of eggs, sugar and fresh milk from the Hateno dairy made for quite a flavorful egg pudding. Riju was respectful of your space as you baked, though the sugary sweet smell of the caramel left her and her warrior's noses rather curious. At your presentation of the dish, she blinked curiously, "It looks wobbly, is it supposed to be that way?" she asked you, poking at it with the spoon you lent her. She was more confused by your laugh, but decided to try it anyway. Immediately she was hit syrupy caramelized sugar and dense custard, a powerful combination for her sweet tooth. Snatching up another spoon she dipped into the confection, "Buliara! You absolutely must try this!" Unable to deny any request of her Chief, the Gerudo Captain takes a bite, only to be taken aback by how delectable it is before cracking the slightest of smiles in agreement with Riju. The latter of which is digging into the pudding with a squeal, "My warriors would enjoy this tremendously, perhaps you'd be willing to make several more?"

Tulin is completely invested in what you're making. As soon as you told him you had some hearty salmon on the menu (a note that Saki had mentioned to you in passing was one of his favorites), he's flapped away in excitement ever since. You thought at first it would be a little difficult being over the cooking stone with a pre-teen Rito zooming above you (you were admittedly terrified he'd singe a few feathers), but he mostly just watched you from over your shoulder. Skillful hands cleaned and cut the salmon with ease, this not being the first nor the last time you've cooked a good salmon of course. "Oooh, what's that? Did Uncle Yunobo give that to you?" he beams brightly at the jar of Goron spice in your hand that you shook onto the raw fish. You tell him not quite, though it was his suggestion to take some with you as you traveled to give your meals some kick. When the smell of the salmon becomes fragrant, you can hear Tulin’s muffled noises of elation as his giant sapphire eyes seem to nearly sparkle with hunger. You're not even able to get the words 'Okay, dig in!' completely out before he gobbles up his share in a few small bites. "Tulin, mind your manners!" Saki chides him, but you assure her it's fine, you did make sure to make extra after all. "But mom, it's so good!" he chirps before he flutters back over to you, "I can have more, right? Pleeeeease tell me you have more!"

Now for Yunobo, this required some serious instruction and skill. Consulting with Cooke at the Bedrock Bistro was your holy grail and you were very thankful that you were friends with Goron City's mining president to even get the opportunity, because although Cooke was naturally friendly - the man didn't play about his rock roasts. Your endgame: a rock roast flambé seared to perfection. It would take you several attempts to get it right; Cooke reiterated constantly the importance of temperature, wrist work and most importantly: timing. But when you finally had it, you were beyond proud...even if you couldn't eat it. With your fireproof potions at the ready, you got to work searing the slab at magma level degrees, taking care to watch the coloration of the rock and watch for its telltale signs of doneness. Fire roared in Cooke's kitchen (he was nice enough to lend it to you for the evening after you'd successfully seared your first one under his supervision), "Ooooh," mused Yunobo from the granite table out front. Another flame shot out from the kitchen, having him jump back a bit, "H-Hey! Don't burn yourself please!" But you didn't hear him, for within only a few seconds of your final flash sear - you were done. Hot as Death Mountain itself, you had to serve Yunobo his flambé on a steel plate (and with fireproof gauntlets), but it was well worth it to watch the Goron's mouth water in appetence. With his dark blue eyes aglow in thanks he tearfully whimpered out a "Thank...you...!" before cracking right into the rock roast flambé. Incoherent grunts of approval and whines of delight were what you heard from your giant friend, and it put your heart at ease when he had practically picked the thing clean. Moving him for the next few minutes was nigh impossible from him being so full afterward, but the reassuring hand on your head and a satisfied, dreamy sigh of "In...credible!" was all you needed to hear to know Yunobo had thoroughly enjoyed his meal. Bonus: Though Mineru could no longer eat food due to her body being completely mechanical, that did not stop her from sharing a simple recipe that she remembered making for herself and Rauru when they were younger. A simple dish of apples and honey, one that she was able to easily instruct you to recreate. Upon tasting it, you were enthralled at its sweetness - not at all overbearing, but beyond delectable. "I'm glad you like it, it has been some time since I've seen this dish be made...it brings back memories." There's a sadness in her tone that tugs at your heart - so without another word you wrap your arms around her otherworldly frame, thanking her for showing you such a delicious dish.

[pitchblackespresso]

Not previous anon, but now I'm. confused. Wouldn't Zelda's past (the events of botw) never happening be a huge paradox? It seems a bit like going back in time and killing your own grandfather. Zelda is only in the ancient past because botw and the years post botw and her going below the castle at the start of totk all happened.

The ramifications of the prior calamity also not happening also means no divine beasts, towers, shrines... would Link and Zelda as we know them even exist anymore?

With AoC's ending, the issue of Ganondorf in the basement can be solved by Link and Zelda going down there younger than they do normally. But with this situation, wayy too much would have been changed. You'd possibly even end up with a hyrule with modern tech if there's no reason to build an army of guardians that unnerves that one king who then bans technology, and then no reason for the yiga... yeah my head hurts. I need to stop thinking.

I did disclaimer that that would be a whole other can of worms

Much like AoC, my assumption would be that events leading to the Demon King's defeat in the ancient past (my current prediction for AoI) would create a branching timeline of sorts, separate from the main BotW/TotK continuity.

At the beginning of AoC, we see Terrako travelling back to the past to prevent the Calamity, but for that, the Calamity needs to happen first (and one could argue that two Terrakos would exist in AoC, just like two Master Swords would exist in BotW/TotK, but that's another other can of worms). Tbh, time travel stuff gets headache-inducing really fast, so branching timelines would be my go-to guess, since they're nothing new in the Zelda timeline. The end of AoC would mean that in that timeline, the events of BotW never happened, but Sidon, Yunobo, Teba and Riju, who help defeat the Calamity in AoC, come from the BotW timeline, and at the end of AoC, they get sent back there, to their time. I would guess something similar would happen in AoI, where Zelda and co help defeat the Demon King in the ancient past, then all get sent back to their time (sometime around TotK, with BotW having happened). What then happens in the AoI timeline, technological advancements, etc. is anyone's guess, just like it's anyone's guess what happens after AoC.

[tumblingdowntheway2019]

Master List Here!!

Had the most funniest dream the other night about Tears of the Kingdom. Well, it was funny to me to say the least. So I decided to turn it into a short story with some wholesomeness added in.

To be safe and save room on the timeline, I'm putting a cut here, so do proceed if you've already completed the story and have all, and I mean ALL!, The Sages.

Do excuse some bad writing, I haven't done this in a very long time so I'm rusty. Actually, I do have an idea for a more serious short fic. I'll add these to my Ao3 at some point as well. Go an account, may as well use it, right?

Anyways, if you wanna draw it out, feel free to so long as I get to see it!! Enjoy. 😂🤣

FAST FOOD RUN. (Best name I got for this. 😂🤣)

All the Sages, in physical form and Spirit form for Mineru, not Avatars were with Link at his house near Tarrey Town, just hanging out. It was after the event with Gloom Daddy Ganondorf. Mineru was there because in the Hyrule's equivalent of the afterlife, King Rauru and Queen Sonia were still worried about their adopted child, Zelda, so she didn't cross over just yet.

Zelda and Purah were away seeing if there were any effects left from her time as a dragon, or maybe even seeing if Zelda can somehow transform at will, whatever Purah is wanting to research. As well as seeing if there was anything of use salvageable left in the remains of Hyrule Castle.

Mineru stayed behind, telling tales of the New Sage's Ancestors, their ups and downs and funny moments in between. It helps them connect more to their ancestors and each other as Mineru got to hear the same from them.

That was however, until a growl was heard. Of course it came from The Hero himself. That suddenly brings up a question.

"Hey Mineru?" Link turned to the Spirit sage. "Your construct. We attach all available weapons to it, and fans and rockets for extra speed. Can wheels be attached the the feet?"

Mineru turned to her construct, more so surprised at the question than what it implies. "In all honesty, I have not considered the possibility of being able to do this." An eyebrow now raised. "Why?"

Tulin, the young Rito who spent the most time with Link over the years as he doesn't really have responsibilities yet, other than training as a Rito Warrior, stood up in excitement. "I know what your about to say!!"

This left the other sages more confused as Link and Tulin debate of the possibilities of "They could surely accept a construct on wheels as a vehicle."

"Pardon my confusion, but what on Earth are you Voe talking about?" Riju asked, leaning against a dozing Patricia. She was napping earlier as well. "Why would you possibly need a construct to have wheels? You can just build a vehicle anyway or use a horse right?"

"Well about that." Link starts as he holds out his own, now Gloom free arm. Queen Sonia and King Rauru reversed everything when we freed Zelda from her Dragon Form."

"Ah, my apologies. I forgot that the abilities that came with the arm has left you also." The Gerudo Chief sheepishly apologises, ears slightly down.

"Easy to forget." Link grins, no harm done. "The reason I asked is because the local vendors near the lookout came together to do something called 'Fast Food.'"

Now the others were confused. Tulin excitedly flew around them as he explains further.

"Yeah!! Some cooks from all around Hyrule come together and make their speciality meals that can be taken on the go. They're appearing more around, it started near Look Out Landing. Just recently, Tarrey Town opened one (1) near here!!"

"What food do they cook? Do they come with a variety of options?" King Sidon question, a thoughtful look on his face as he considers this idea.

"Anything, Baked Bass, Hearty Soup, a lot of different skewers!!" Tulin starts.

Link following suit with, "And so many gourmet meat options. " His mouth practically drooling as his stomach growls again.

"That sounds nice and all, but we can easily make that at home, goro." Yunobo counters, "And free if you catch them yourself."

Link, ever accustomed to Goron culture and knowing why his Fire Sage friend seemed unimpressed. "They also have Rock Sirrlloooiiiinnn."

"NO WAY, GORO!!" Yunobo was now standing and ready to roll out at the mere mention of the popular rock dish. "Even with rubies on top?"

"Whatever you want. Like I said, "some cooks all around Hyrule", including Death Mountain.

"Well it seems this "Take out " is what we are having tonight." Sidon, doing his signature pose and smile. "Uh, that poses the question, why must Mineru's Construct form be required?"

"Also, I can't enjoy these meals anyway, so what would be in it for me if I were to try this customisation to my Construct?" Mineru chimed in. "If you haven't noticed, I've been a spirit for the past thousands of years." She almost looked down cause of it.

Riju then asked if Mineru ever liked Fried Wild Greens, any kind of curry or even a Hylian Pizza. Yes, spice tolerance is surprisingly high so yes, and no. Pizza was not a thing in Mineru's era. Riju is now determined for her to try that and a curry of her choice since Mineru can just possess her and one (1) of the guys for this to happen. While hesitant, Mineru accepted. She always wanted to see how well Gorons can handle their spices.

*LATER.*

"I can't believe this is happening." A female voice can be heard approaching. "Why did I agree to this?"

"It certainly smoother than taking a carriage." A male voice chimed in next. "Like swimming in a river!"

"I could have just walked, all the same!"

"Aww, but then you wouldn't have known that you can add wheels to your feet." A child's voice replied. "And with this fan, we could go much faster too!!"

"That's only because you can't land when you take control. We were practically swimming in gloom. You more so if I hadn't caught you on time." The female voice scolds, though there is no hint of annoyance in it.

"Hey, we're next!!"

"Welcome to Tarrey Towns Hyrule Fast Food stand, what would you like today?" A young Zora greeted. She was immediately taken aback at what was in front of her.

There, grinning wide was the Hero of the Wild, sitting on the shoulders of a huge, humanoid shaped construct with an owl shaped head. Mask? The Small Zora doesn't quite know, but somehow she can make out the somewhat unamused look to it's expressionless form. In it's arms, the newly appointed King of the Zora, signature shining smile as he holds a piece of paper. Looking up onto the constructs shoulder, a young Rito, who's feathers practically were fluffed up in excitement, was perched.

"Well this is something you don't see everyday. Great to see you Link, Your Majesty." The Zora cook bows.

"Now there's no need for that, it's good to see you again, Marot!" The King greeted his dear friend. "I'm so happy to see that you have pursued your culinary skills at last." A shining smile accompanied his words.

"If it wasn't for Link and yourself, as wells as your fellow sages, I would not have been able to do so. For that, I thank you all!" Marot did her own version of the shining smile.

"I'm staaarrrvvvviiinnnggg!!" Tulin groans as he leans back onto Link, no risk on falling as his claws were comfortably gripped onto the construct. It didn't stop Marot from fearing it, however.

"Well luckily for you, by orders of Mr Hudson who kindly allowed us to set up here, we are happy to give you all your food for free. It's the least we can do for your brave act of heroism against the Demon King." Marot happily announced. A Hylian Chef, Goron Chef and Rito Chef all cheering in agreement just being here.

"Oh, we brought money, that would not be necessary surely." Sidon quickly tried to object, Link nodding in agreement.

Sure they may have earned it in the eyes of the people of Hyrule. However, it is their living and they are happy to pay for it, especially since it's a big order. Tulin tried to object to the older men, but it was Mineru who spoke.

"While it is kind of them to offer free food. In the long run, no matter how often it may be, it is still the people of Hyrule who is making a livelihood out of their skills." Marot is surprised that the construct itself was the source of the female voice she heard earlier. Even more surprised when the owl shaped head turned to face her and asked, "Is there any compromise that can be accepted with this Mr Hudson."

"My friends. I insist on it. Link, you helped me meet my dear Rhondson and established my beloved town. What more than the occasional free food?" The man of the hour appeared, as of speaking his very name had summoned him.

"Hudson, you already gave me land and allowed me to have my house built there." Link countered.

"And you insisted on paying for that. Had to make it discounted before you finally took it." Hudson sternly replied. No hard feeling over it was detected. "And you helped give our dear daughter, Mattison, a grand send off and kept us up to date. What more could we ask for, despite you not having to take the time out of your days to do so?"

"Lady Riju said she is making great progress in Gerudo Town. She seems to be taking after you, Hudson, as she has been helping by re-building the stalls and giving some tips and tricks to her fellow sisters." Link informed Hudson, having wanting to say before he forgot. It was intended for later but this saved him the worry of forgetting later.

"Oh, my dear daughter. I'm so glad to hear she is fitting in so well there." Hudson teared up. "Rhondson will be so pleased to hear this. This is why I insist on the free food!"

With that, the Sages and Link went to the side, as Link and Sidon negotiated some sort of deal. They won't accept the free food, Hudson wants to give them it. Sidon shows the long list, saying that this is simply too much for it to be free.

Marot was on break, she approached the construct and young Rito, some Fried Wild Greens offered to Tulin, who happily took it and began to devour it.

"Please at least eat it over there, it was hard enough to clean this." Mineru gently scolded him.

"Sorry!" Tulin was totally not that sorry, as he took the food and just leaned against her on the ground instead.

Marot looked at Mineru, who in turn looked at her with a tilt of her mechanical head.

"It's on the house. Young Tulin here helped me a while ago with retrieving some ingredients for here. That gust ability sure came in handy with the greens and fish." Marot answered the unspoken question.

Mineru seemed to be satisfied. But then, as if Marot wasn't surprised already, Mineru asked:

"May I ask, how is this Hylian Pizza made?"

*BACK AT LINK'S HOUSE.*

Zelda and Purah returned some time later. Their experiments with Zelda and seeing if she had any Dragon like powers remaining had come to little answers. However, it did come as a happy suprise that Zelda's recall ability and light powers had significantly increased due to her thousands of years slumber of sorts. It would explain how she was able to take many hits from the vastly bigger Gloom Dragon in their final battle.

The ruckus they heard was funny to them. There was Link and Sidon, recounting the tales of their great negotiating skills with Hudson as they were both eating their Salmon Risottos. Tulin and Yunobo were all ears, barely touching there fish and mushroom skewer and Rock Sirloin, listening to how the Zora King battled for the Fifty percent (50%) off option.

Riju was off to the side, comforting the poor spirit of Mineru as she had undermined the Gorons ability to eat such a spicy feast. Let alone it being made of rock. Patricia was actually the first to greet The Princess and Researcher.

"Ah, Princess Zelda, welcome back. Were you able to progress in your research today?" Riju welcomes without looking. Having grown up with Patricia at her side, she had learned to understand what the sand seal's action interpret and to who. And hearing that Purah had, indeed, brought some splash fruit and hydromelons to her. Cause cute Sand Seal equals lots of pets.

"Oh uh, unfortunately the only thing we learned is my control of Recall had taken on a wider ranged. So some of the castles library was successfully repaired." Zelda quickly replied, embarrassed to admit that she was ecstatic that the seal had gave her her full attention and successfully beating Purah to it first with the Hydromelons.

"Princess, that is not unfortunate. That is a great deal of progress. Considering that the castle has been in this sad state of disrepair for over one hundred (100) years. Why, even Sonia was unable to go that far back. She would be very proud of you." Mineru gently assured, having turned from serious researcher herself to a gentle older sister/aunt figure. It worked to cheer Zelda up a good bit.

"What's going on in here anyway? What's this about having a deal in this food?" Purah asks, as she tried to bribe Patricia to come over to her, earning her a snort in return.

"Just Link and Sidon retelling the story of how they were able to negotiate on having this food for free so long as it's half off on their future meals." Riju answered, speech somewhat off as she takes another sip of Milk. "Hudson wanted us to have it for free, they wanted to pay. They settled on that. Typical Voe."

"Are you and Mineru ok? I've never seen you two (2) act like that before." Zelda asks in concern.

Riju stares her dead in the eyes as she answered with, "That Rock Sirloin, I really underestimated how spicy it can be!!"

"Oh come on guys, it's not that spicy!!" The Goron called over. "You just don't have as high a tolerance as you think, goro!"

"It nearly sent me to meet my ancestor, Mineru close behind. AND SHE WAS POSSESSING YOU!!" Riju argued.

"I did have the pleasure of seeing how this Hylian Pizza was made. I must say, I am excited to try it....if my tastes buds are able to recover in my spirit form." Mineru muses.

"COWARDS!!" Yunobo and Link yelled at in sync. Tulin in a laughing heap and Sidon taking another bite of his Risotto, trying to politely not laugh, unsuccessfully.

"Well now you have to try it. It's simply delicious!" Zelda exclaimed.

Worries and tiredness were washed away as Zelda and Purah excitedly told Mineru (who in turn was thanking Riju for allowing her this opportunity) of all the different topping that can be had on the pizza she is now enjoying. But for the love of Hylia, no Pineapples!!

[isa-ah]

EXACTLY

Like adore Tulin but what I loved about BOTW was we had two groups of champions: the ones from the past Link has to remember, and the unofficial new ones you have to bond with in this new Hyrule to get the job done ( Teba, Sidon, Riju, and Yunobo) and it was a neat way to present 2 storylines in a single go while letting the player learn about Hyrule at the same time Link is. We're both discovering and rebuilding but TOTK plowed over everything, making some new older "champions" that remains literally FACELESS because the onus is supposed to be on the people you connected with previously (and though I adored the wind temple, I hate that Teba got pushed to the side in favor of Tulin. He was a counterpart to Revali and we don't get to explore that enough as it is...)

teba is one of the parts of botw that really bothered me LOL all of the other champions have in depth memories and plotlines and characterization and arcs and then you get to tabantha and teba just goes ugh. fine. lets go. and then leaves as soon as you get up there and thats it! thats his whole plotline. he has next to no lines, characterization, or relevance beyond helping you breech vah medoh. and even MORESO in totk where he just goes hey go find tulin. and thats IT LOL

the ancient sages having 0 personality or relevance, especially when it comes to their individual awakening cutscenes, is SO confusing to me. why are they all reading the same script? why are all of the cutscenes identical? is there no culture or perspective you can offer? you experienced the battle the exact same way across the board? why even show them? they dont interact with zelda beyond being asked to put their bodies on the line. they have no narrative weight. they show up and die and thats.. it. why were they even there

but i honestly feel that way about the entire past segment of the plot. idk how into zeldatube you were in the years after breath of the wild, but the zonai got picked up as a topic a few years after botw came out and went through a huge burst of content and theories that went on so long it became an in-joke to mention them- or their characteristic swirls and architecture- and back around to being an earnest exploration of their vague presence in botw... to. that.

they were characterized first and foremost as an exploration of how ruins of a "mysterious tribe" would have worshipped the triforce. secondarily, if we are to believe the barbarians armor was zonai in origin, theyre identified as a "warlike tribe". thats what we have. their architecture is HEAVILY influenced by birds / dragons / boars for the triforce iconography, and they fought their way across hyrule (leaving ruins all over the place).

but in tears of the kingdom, what thorough line do they have? at all? their architecture is COMPLETELY different. they never once mention the triforce. they were seemingly an a-religious tribe that deified their ruler more than any goddesses or golden power. theyre shown to be puritanical largely passive figures, "inherently good."

its at complete odds with everything we knew about them. and its not ever broached. they dont talk about their culture at ALL. the snippets we get are erroneous. the youth partook in tests of courage. the temple of time exists. all of the zonai are dead or left. they can draconify with their stones of power. and thats... it. really.

there are the labyrinths- iirc they were headed by the lord of boars, dragons and? owls? and thats really it. they utilize the same uruborus statues and constructs, but seem like a completely different (and much more familiar) flavor than rauru or mineru. but.. to what end? (and why.. are the labyrinth rewards... meta callback armor???)

why even use the facade of building upon the zonai if youre not using anything established or establishing anything new LOL bizarre use of resources honestly

[sombersummerskies]

A Champion's Love: Chapter 31

Chapter 31: Normalcy Word Count: 4660 CW: None

Want all the chapters? -> Masterlist

~~~ <> ~~~

You didn’t get the chance to speak to Sidon privately once you returned to Lookout Landing.

The other leaders had arrived as well.

Now you found yourself crammed inside the largest tent, sitting at the table surrounded by some very notable faces from your travels and adventures. 

Representing the Gerudo was of course Chief Riju, accompanied by Buliara and a handful of guards. On behalf of the Rito, Elder Kaneli had traveled across the land and had brought Teba and Harth along with him. The Goron leader Bludo had shown up as well, with Yunobo at his side.

Lady Impa had traveled alongside a group of Sheikah guards. Both the scientists Robbie and Purah had shown up as well, with Robbie having brought his wife, Jerrin, and Purah having brought her assistant Symin. The mayor of Hateno, Reede, was also present. Even Lurelin Village, the small Hylian beach settlement to the southeast, had sent a representative: an elder named Rozel.

Everyone seemed to have something to say. You sat beside Zelda quietly, hands in your lap and a perturbed look on your face, as the tent erupted into conversation. Arguments and ideas being shouted across the table. Concerns about both the Yiga Clan and the divine beasts being mentioned. Worries not discussed since before you’d slain Calamity Ganon being brought back to light.

You glance over at the Princess who seems to have the same exasperated expression as yourself. She’d been attempting to raise her voice and control the energy in the room, but to no avail. You glance across the table and see Sidon sitting beside his father. He casts you a look of pity.

It had been your hope that you would be able to pull the Zora prince aside to talk before this meeting would begin. You had so many questions to ask him. What had happened within Ruta? How was he healed? How did you escape? Most of all, you’d simply missed him, and rather selfishly wanted to keep him to yourself for a few spare moments.

You could admit you were selfish from time to time. At least whenever it came to Sidon you were.

The shouting and discussion persists, pulling you from your thoughts. You look back towards Zelda and finally open your mouth to speak, “would you like me to do something about this?”

“Please,” she sighs, her brow furrowed.

With a nod you stand from your chair and roll your shoulders back. With your good arm you reach behind yourself and grasp the handle of the Master Sword. The princess seems confused as you angle your arm back, before flinging it forward. A beam of sacred light emits from the sword and goes flying towards the ceiling of the tent, exploding into a cloud of light particles.

The movement causes the bruises on your torso to sing with pain.

Evidently however, this does the trick, the display catching everyone off guard and causing them to fall silent.

You loudly clear your throat as you sit back down in your chair, gesturing for Zelda to proceed.

The princess quickly takes the opportunity, standing up as she speaks, “I would like to start by thanking everyone here for their attendance. I understand that many of you have traveled far, and I know that for quite a few of you it is not easy to leave the safety of your settlements. It is my hope that this meeting will help us create an efficient and safe solution to the problem that plagues us.”

“The Yiga Clan,” Riju speaks up.

Purah, still stuck in the form of a young child, pipes up as well, “yes, but the Divine Beasts too!”

“The Divine Beasts?” you repeat in a confused tone, “why would they be a problem?”

“It cannot be ignored that the Yiga possessing knowledge of how to control the beasts remains to be a risk of security,” Lady Impa explains from across the table, “even if that knowledge is incomplete.”

“How’d they even get their hands on those instructions anyhow?” Bludo grumbles, “I thought those were supposed to be locked up tight and secure.”

You spot Impa slowly glancing over to Purah, her sister, who huffs and crosses her arms. “They were stolen… from my lab,” the little scientist confesses, “I was tricked by a Yiga who disguised himself to look like Symin.”

“I can’t believe this, Yiga Clan sneaking around in Hateno,” bemoans Mayor Reede, “how could this have happened?”

Zelda quickly interjects before the conversation can veer further off course, “regardless of how the Yiga got access to this information, it is in the past now. While the Divine Beasts were a tremendous asset in our fight against Calamity Ganon, that time has seemingly passed now as well. I know that part of my plan to rebuild Hyrule was to train four new pilots for each of the machines, we’d already dedicated weeks to this. However… I do think the best course of action would be to disassemble the beasts, permanently.”

It feels as if your heart stops. You stare up at the princess with wide eyes. 

“... what?” you whisper, shocked by her words.

She gives you a sympathetic look as she continues, “it wasn’t an easy decision to make, I promise. We were already in the process of preparing the champion ceremony, and I’m sure each pilot chosen had already begun to form a bond with the Divine Beasts. But for the sake of the safety of our people, perhaps we need to reconsider this. The risk of the Yiga attempting to hijack them once more is a threat far too dangerous to take lightly. I believe we were fortunate that the damage and harm was minimal, but next time I do not think we will be so lucky.”

“But it will not be a waste,” Robbie speaks up, “the technology can be repurposed.”

“Precisely!” Purah interjects excitedly, “not only the Divine Beasts, but all of the ancient Sheikah technology. To rebuild Hyrule, much of it can be dismantled and used for brand new construction and even a new era of Sheikah tech- Robbie and I already have plans drafted.”

Your brow furrows. “All of it? The shrines… the towers… even the guardians?”

The princess places a hand on your shoulder as she continues, “I know it may be hard to let go of, but I believe it will also be for the better of the kingdom. So much of this technology will continue to remind our people of the Calamity. Dismantling could help all of us to move on and build a better future.”

The room erupts into conversation yet again. Agreements and disagreements, but you’re too lost in your own thoughts to acknowledge the discussion surrounding you. The dismantling of Sheikah technology felt monumental to you. It had been all around you since as long as you could remember, since you were still a young knight training with the army. Everywhere you went there was ancient technology. The idea of it all being taken away felt unfathomable.

Zelda manages to regain control of the room without your help this time. You listen as she speaks up, “of course, this means that the champion ceremony will no longer be occurring. This is news that we will have to share across the land in due time. But this leads me to the next point I would like to bring up. I recently got in contact with a woman named Traysi, who has the brilliant idea of starting a newspaper.”

“A newspaper?” Elder Kaneli repeats in confusion.

The princess nods, “yes, she would like to found an organization with the sole purpose of chronicling events that happen in Hyrule and sharing that news around the land. I think it’s a rather splendid idea, a new way to ensure all of our citizens are kept knowledgeable.”

You make a small noise of agreement. This ‘newspaper’ does seem like a good idea.

The rest of the discussion amongst the leaders seems to go smoothly. Talk of new security measures, adjustments to routes of trade, and eventually it dwindles down to more casual conversation. Before you realize it, hours have passed, and you find yourself weakly shuffling out of the large tent.

Much to your surprise, the sun was already beginning its ascent into the sky. Early morning rays of light were pushing away the inky darkness of night. A yawn manages to escape your lips as you blink away your tiredness.

You stand beside the princess as she bids goodbye to each of the leaders. Some were preparing to rest in Lookout Landing, such as Kaneli and Impa. Others, though, were readying themselves to return to their respective regions already, such as Riju, Bludo, and Dorephan.

Bazz bids his fellow guards a farewell, opting to stay in Lookout Landing to assist in construction and protection. If you try to hide the disappointment on your face as you say goodbye to the Zora, you evidently don’t do a very good job of it. King Dorephan smiles softly and gently bows his head as he looks down at you. 

“It is good to see you in better shape, young knight. Do I hope your full recovery is swift.” he says graciously.

“Thank you, your highness,” you respond, “and I hope your journey back to the domain is pleasant.”

“Father,” a voice speaks up, “may I have a word?”

You turn and realize Prince Sidon is standing behind you. His gaze flickers down to you and he smiles, before looking back up at the king. “I would like to request a small amount of additional time here in Lookout Landing. I should be capable of catching up during the return to Zora’s Domain.”

King Dorephan chuckles as he nods his head, “I see nothing wrong with that request. Consider it granted, son.”

You watch as the group of Zora return to the east, the silhouette of the king looming above all the rest.

“Why aren’t you joining them?” you ask quietly, heart pace quickening once you feel Sidon move to stand beside you.

“Is it so wrong of me to want to enjoy a few more precious hours with the one I love?” he replies cheekily, giving you a grin.

You feel your face warm, whether it’s from the rising sun or the prince’s compliments you can’t tell.

“I spotted some rather gorgeous lakes to the south-east of here. Would you care to join me there?” he asks, pointing in the aforementioned direction.

“Unfortunately the princess has prescribed me bedrest while I heal from my injuries…” you answer, voice trailing off. Your mind wanders to the wounds the prince had sustained when the Yiga attack, but you do not ask about them while out in the open.

The Zora prince muses, “surely she wouldn’t mind an excursion if you’re being chaperoned.”

You shrug your shoulders to the best of your abilities, “you know, I think you’re right.”

…

The cool water of the lake soothes your nerves as you walk along the shallow edge. Giant water lilies are scattered across the surface of the water. Near the deeper parts you can see groups of fish, most likely bass, swimming in the murky depths.

“I think this one is called the Bottomless Pond,” you murmur, recalling your knowledge of the map from the Sheikah Slate, “it’s one of the few lakes that remain in central Hyrule. According to some of the older maps in the castle, the lakes used to be more plentiful.”

You glance over to the prince. He sits at the edge of the water, reclining as he basks in the sunlight. When he notices your stare he beckons you closer. You take a seat beside him, not caring if the water soaks into your clothing.

For the first time since reuniting, you finally get a chance to really examine the prince. Your eyes travel along his body. There isn’t a single scrape, nick, scratch, scab, stab, or cut on any part of him. His scarlet scales seem brighter and healthier than ever before.

“Sidon…” you mumble, your voice quiet, “what happened?”

His smile falters and he averts his gaze. You watch his chest rise as he takes a deep breath. “Well, as I figured out all-too-late, the letter that stranger had given me was a ruse. I’d been brought back to the domain through Yiga trickery. Against my better judgment I foolishly chose to journey to Ruta, where unbeknownst to me or my guards an ambush was awaiting us. I… I do not recall much of the attack. But I do know it caused me quite a bit of pain.”

That same pain is etched into his expression as he recounts the events of that day. You gently grasp his hand.

“It becomes quite foggy after that. But eventually I opened my eyes and I saw you, surrounded by that Yiga scum. I became so enraged, but I was weakened as well. And then- and then I heard a voice. This voice enveloped me, as if in a warm embrace. It gave me the strength to reach out and call upon the divine beast. I begged Ruta for her aid, to help me save the one I love most. She must have heard my pleas.”

The voice must’ve been Mipha, you were sure of it.

“Suddenly the body of the machine was filled with water, scaring off the Yiga. I felt stronger than ever. I took hold of you and escaped. Alongside Bazz and my guards I returned to the domain with you in my arms. Though it… it was not a joyous occasion,” his voice wavers at the end, and you notice his gaze drift down to your bandages.

“Oh, Sidon,” you mumble, overcome with guilt, “I’m so sorry- you should have never-”

The prince gently shushes you, “dearest, whatever are you sorry for?”

“They used you because they wanted to get to me,” you sob, unable to stop the tears as they form, “they hurt you so terribly- and I was so scared, I didn’t know what to do-”

“Are you blaming yourself?” he asks, taken aback, “you’re taking the blame for the actions of those ruffians?”

“If it weren’t for me they would never have attacked you,” you whisper.

“And if it weren’t for my brazen foolishness I wouldn’t have fallen into their trap, thus allowing them to attack you,” he retorts, his own eyes filled with emotion.

“If I can’t blame myself, neither can you,” you mutter, wiping away your tears with the back of your hand.

“Then that makes us even, little one,” the prince replies softly. Sidon pulls you into his arms, careful not to touch your bruises. You relax into his touch, doing your best to calm your shaky breathing.

“Look at us, beloved,” he murmurs, running his hand down your back. You shiver at the way his nails trace your spine. “We’re both safe. We’re together. And in due time, you will be healed once more.”

You nod, “I know… I just… I don’t want anything like that to ever happen to us again. I don’t mean to sound ungrateful for the lives we live, but sometimes I wish we were more… normal.”

Sidon chuckles, his lips pressed to your forehead, “you wish that we weren’t a prince and a skilled knight? Well… sometimes I can’t help but feel the same, beloved.”

You trail the tips of your fingers along his scales, “do you think maybe after all this Sheikah tech has been sorted out, we’ll return to a bit more of a normal life? Less monster attacks, more time to spend together?”

“One can only hope,” he responds with a grin.

…

You’re unsure how much time passes as you lay there with the prince. You spend a short while dozing off in his hold, not having gotten any sleep the night prior. Once the sun is at its highest point you find yourself picking at the flowers on the lake’s edge. You do your best to tie the stems together, but the calluses on your hands make it difficult to handle the delicate plants.

It isn’t until after you've made a few attempts that you realize the prince is staring at you.

“... yes?” you ask aloud, awkwardly fumbling with the stems in your hands.

“Am I not allowed to look upon you?” he responds, a mischievous gleam in his eyes.

You blush, “I never said that, I just don’t think of myself as something all that interesting to look at.”

“You act so coy, little Hylian, yet you’re perfectly aware of my affection for you. I could gaze upon you all day long, admiring the way you glow in the sunlight. In fact…” he trails off at the end, and you notice how he’s begun to blush as well.

“In fact?” you repeat, goading him into continuing.

“I shouldn’t,” he shakes his head, “it’s a rather un-princely thought.”

“Well now you have to tell me,” you laugh, tossing aside the stems in your hands as you move closer to him.

The prince flusters, dropping his voice to a whisper, “in all my admiration of you, I couldn’t help but be reminded of a certain evening we spent by the river. Do you recall?”

Your face feels even hotter as you think back to that day. It must’ve been almost three weeks ago at this point, but it was still fresh in your mind. Your escapade with the prince that resulted in a rather intimate night. You’d be lying if you said you hadn’t wanted more ever since.

“Yes, I do recall,” you whisper in return.

He reaches a hand out, brushing a few loose strands of hair behind your ear. He allows his fingers to linger, tracing along the side of your jaw. You fight the urge to shiver beneath his touch.

“It’s unfortunate that I was not able to assist in fully healing you,” he murmurs, “for I am now prevented from touching you in the ways I most desire.”

“Oh-” you gasp, “is that so?”

Sidon grins, bearing his teeth, “yes, but that last thing I would want is to exacerbate your wounds, dearest. So I must be patient.”

“And just how patient are you?” you respond, feeling emboldened to match his tone.

He chuckles lowly, and you notice the way his eyes dilate as he looks down at you, “patient enough not to ravage you right here on the lake’s edge.”

You hum, cheeks hot just from the thought, “my my, out in the open? If someone were to see us it would be quite the scandal. Not a very prince-ly thing to do, is it?”

This pulls another laugh out of him and he leans back, basking in the sun, “you’re quite correct. What was it you mentioned earlier? About a life of normalcy? Perhaps that would be another perk, to be left alone.”

“Perhaps…” you sigh.

…

Upon your return to Lookout Landing, you bid the prince goodbye. While the last thing either of you want is to be separated again, you both have individual roles to fulfill. He must return to work in the domain, and while you’re not actively working as a knight you still act as a council to the princess.

“Please notify me as soon as you’re healed, beloved,” Sidon urges as he kneels before you, “better yet, visit me in the palace at your soonest convenience.”

“You’ll be one of the first to know, I swear it,” you respond with a nod.

There’s a hustle and bustle of people surrounding you, as all the different crews for construction were working once again. You peer around shyly, before quickly reaching up and giving him a quick kiss.

“I love you,” you whisper to him, adjusting the sash across his torso.

Sidon takes your hands into his own and squeezes them gently, pressing the backs of your hands to his lips. “I love you, my darling,” he mumbles against your skin, “endlessly, and completely. I will be thinking of you until our paths cross again.

You feel a pang in your heart as you watch him leave, exiting towards the east. The ceremonial trident is slung across his back, and the sunlight bouncing off of his silver adornments gives him a glow.

A hand gently touches your shoulder. You look and see Zelda who gives you a sympathetic smile. “Will you be alright?” she asks softly.

“I’ll be fine,” you say with a smile as you turn to her, “I feel much better now that I have some answers. Was there something you needed?”

The princess nods, “yes, actually, a private matter I wanted to discuss. But first, would you like to survey some of the construction?”

You follow Zelda around as she explains various aspects of the project to you. How Purah will have a new laboratory, how there could be shops, how there was discussion of a stable. The most interesting part to you was the old fountain in the center, which apparently had a secret tunnel beneath it that the royal family could use in case of emergency to escape from the castle. Currently there was a team working to excavate the old mechanisms to open the bunker.

You tease the princess for how flustered she gets when she spots Link- who today happens to be shirtless as he helps haul construction materials across the site. Zelda’s cheeks and ears visibly turn pink as she averts her gaze from the blond.

“Bet you wish you could take a photograph,” you whisper to her teasingly, resulting in her attempting to give you a swift jab to your good arm.

The two of you share a meal in the kitchen tent. With your appetite finally returned to normal, you happily feast on pumpkin stew, bread, and egg pudding.

After the walk Zelda surprises you with the champion’s tunic, which she’d had cleaned and sewn. You trace your fingers over the stitches that match the scar on your arm. You quickly change into it, the fabric comfortable and familiar to you.

Once you return to the large tent where the princess’ temporary study is, you have a seat at her table. “So what was it you wanted to talk about?”

The princess sighs, crossing her arms over her chest. You notice that she looks at a map of Hyrule before turning back to you. “As much as I dearly enjoy overseeing the construction of Lookout Landing, there are moments where I would prefer a moment’s quiet and peace rather than being stuck in the middle of all this commotion.”

You nod, leaning back in your chair, “you’re saying you want your own place?”

“A home,” Zelda mumbles, “which is difficult for me to admit. The only home I ever knew before the calamity was the castle.”

“I know you well enough to know that a castle was never going to be the perfect home for you,” you respond with a laugh, “so what were you thinking of?”

She drums her fingers on the wood of the table before answering, “something quiet, but not too far from other people. Something small. Preferably in a town, so that if I am needed I can quickly access a road to travel. The issue is that there hasn’t been much new construction ever since the calamity, and I doubt we could find anyone willing to sell their house. But I wanted to ask you because you’ve done your fair share of traveling in the last year, and I was hoping that maybe you’d have an idea of where I could go.”

You think, recalling the many locations you’d been to. So many people, so many places, and so much open space. But not many vacant homes. You rack your brain for a solution- and then it hits you.

“Actually,” you say with a smile, “I think I know just the place.”

…

Hateno village.

When you’d notified Bolson of your interest in the old house at the edge of the village, he was ecstatic. He insisted on lowering the price for the princess, and he ended up lowering it so far that you questioned if his business practices were sustainable. He and his assistant Karson rode ahead to Hateno to ensure that the old house would be in suitable condition for Zelda to move in.

Over the span of a few days you assisted the princess in packing any essentials and clothing into a handful of satchels and bags. Zelda coordinated with Hudson, leaving him in charge of operations in her absence. You have a few more checkups with the resident nurse before being given permission to travel- with the promise you won’t partake in strenuous behavior that would agitate your bruises.

The various crews of Lookout Landing are eager to say goodbye to the princess and yourself. Bazz wishes you well on your journey. You can’t help but grin as Link wordlessly offers a bouquet of plucked wildflowers to Zelda, quickly signing ‘for you’ with his hands before disappearing into the crowd.

Your journey to Hateno happens over the course of two days on horseback, spending a night at the Dueling Peaks stable to rest. With the Sheikah technology temporarily offline as Purah and Robbie get to work on dismantling the Divine Beasts, you no longer have the option of quickly traveling from shrine to shrine. You try to look on the bright side of the matter, considering how you now have more opportunities to bask in the natural beauty of Hyrule.

The people of the village are happy to greet you, and Mayor Reede seems particularly thrilled about the princess herself becoming a part of the town’s community. Zelda is eager to decorate her new home, and you watch as she giddily plans out the location of each item of furniture. You can’t help but laugh as she meticulously fusses over every little decoration and detail.

With one of your arms still healing you have to work at a slower pace, but eventually you’re able to help move everything in and get it situated. Bolson had graciously thrown in a few extra pieces of furniture with the purchase of the home, including a bed, a dining table, and some shelving. A few folks from the village offered unused goods as well, adding a tablecloth, curtains, and some cutlery to your collection.

“Congratulations,” you say to Zelda once the move is complete, “it looks good. It feels… homey.”

“Thank you,” she replies graciously, powering some water into a vase of flowers, “if you don’t mind, there was one more thing I wanted to ask of you.”

“Hmm?” you respond, kicking off your boots so as to not track any mud into the house.

“I…” she trails off, gently adjusting the petals of the flowers, “I’ve never been accustomed to living on my own. The mayor has offered security to ensure my safety, that is not a concern of mine. It’s simply an adjustment, going from living in a bustling castle, surrounded by people at all times. I’d like you to know that you’re welcome here, at any time. And… and if you’d like a home of your own, I’d be happy to accept a housemate.”

You blink. A smile spreads on your face when you realize what she’s saying. You take a moment to look around at the quaint home. The warm atmosphere, the decor, the simple wooden furniture. If you think hard enough, it starts to remind you of your childhood home.

If you lived in a place like this, perhaps you could start to feel a little… normal.

“Housemates, huh?” you answer, “yeah… yeah, that sounds nice.”

Zelda grins at you, “perfect. I already know the first thing you can help me with, as my new housemate.”

“What’s that?” you respond with a laugh.

“I’d like to cut my hair.”

~~~ <> ~~~

Previous Chapter

Next Chapter

[ofstormsandfire]

OH OH sages of the calamity if you will…

I will indeed!

so. spoilers ahead for both botw and hyrule warriors: age of calamity if you want to avoid them. like, the Main Plot Twist of age of calamity. also some plot spoilers for the sage quests in totk. putting the rest under a cut o7

sooo. y'know how hyrule warriors: age of calamity had a really fun plot twist of "the people who helped link take on the divine beasts in the botw timeline got brought to the aoc timeline to help save the champions."

(also now that I think about it they might have foreshadowed tulin being your main buddy for the rito questline in totk... because it was teba who came to help revali, tulin just got yoinked by accident too)

the botw timeline, presumably, still exists. and is progressing at roughly the same speed as the aoc one.

imagine, if you will, that a repaired terrako Notices Something's Up There. passes this info on. and, well, the champions are well aware that they'd be dead without help from the warriors of that future.

they can help! (also, they're like. the only ones who can help due to something something "things get a little weird if you have multiple versions of the same people in the same world for long, we're lucky it worked out at all with the sidons")

(...I may be planning to try and use that plot point to bring back the main timeline's champs? maybe. if I can make it work and it doesn't feel narratively unsatisfying to me. We Shall See.)

anyway. when link wakes up on great sky island, he wakes up with terrako there. he's confused. rauru is confused.

he gets A Lot More Confused (and so does tulin) when they're midway through the rito questline and aoc revali comes crashing in (somewhat reluctantly) to help.

(also - unsure if I want to go this route, but it's entirely possible that the people who went to the aoc timeline straight up Don't Remember their time there. maybe they never remember it. or maybe they remember it again once they run into the other timeline's champions. there are a lot of loose threads I have yet to figure out but it would be a really cool fic y'know?)

highlights include -the climb up to colgera being Much Less Of A Hassle thanks to revali's gale. when he can be convinced to use it, anyway. -daruk might show up a bit early specifically because I want him to see yunobo being Weird. (and also I think it would be funny if link had to drag him away from the marbled rock roast he might be too old to eat anyway) -there is so much fucking crying between sidon and mipha and dorephan. I don't think :) she can heal :) dorephan's injuries :) I also think it would be funny if she showed up to help with the sludge like at mipha's court and then Turned Around. -fun fact! riju can die during the gibdo assault on gerudo town. it's fucking heartbreaking. she drops to one knee like urbosa did during the aoc cutscene and everything. I think the ~parallels~ of urbosa showing up Just In Time would be fun. also, like, more lightning where gibdos are concerned cannot be a bad thing -throughout the fic zelda is in contact with the champions via terrako. totk link really wants to talk to her and then just kind of starts crying once he does.

so yeah uh. another fic that would be really cool if I had more solid ideas for it lol (and if ao3 would separate the damn botw and totk tags like they should have to begin with-)

[autumngremlin]

Introducing: BotW/TotK DR

L O A D I N G . . .

"You have shown unflinching bravery and skill in the face of darkness and adversity. And have proven yourself worthy of the blessings of the Goddess Hylia."

This may be one of my most confusing DRs jesus fuck

Arien, She/They

Occupation: Knightess, Second Hylian Champion

Weapon: Heroine's Bow

Acts similarly to the Master Sword in terms of being used against Ganon/Ganondorf. Has it's own abilities

(This is not my only weapon, just the most known one amongst others)

Favorite Flower: Blue Nightshade

Home: Castle Town; east side (before Calamity)

Relationships

Link (aged to an adult): Confidant. The way to describe our relationship is a complicated one— we were incredibly close before the Calamity and had been in multiple battles together, though as King Rhoam had gotten more desperate for Zelda's powers to awaken, we started drifting apart because of our duties. The fondness I have towards him that implied more than just friendship had vanished due to losing my memory, and those feelings don't make it's return. And of course, he's an amnesiac too.

Zelda: Close friend. Before the Calamity, she had given her approval/blessing to Link and I because of our bond. Other than that, she's roughly the same as canon

Jack: This isn't seen until the Tears of the Kingdom era, but we were old souls that had reincarnated from the Zonai/Ancient Hylian period— lovers that promised to find each other again somehow... even though Sheikah technology had put me in regenerative stasis for a century and he wasn't around for the Calamity to happen. (AKA I'm not putting this man through the same fate as me)

Revali: Also complicated in a sense. He had romantic feelings towards me that I didn't know about, but it never got addressed with the severity of the impending Calamity. I only found out when Teba gives me a pile of unsent letters that were with Revali's diary. I apparently don't find some peace of mind until the gap between the events of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, despite having seen his spirit.

The Rest of the Past Champions (Daruk, Mipha & Urbosa): We were very close friends with all of us working towards one goal— sealing Calamity Ganon. But that didn't go too well, now did it?

Teba (has his own because he doesn't become a Sage): He's.. a guiding figure in a way? His dad talks are helpful when I'm not trying to instigate any banter for the hell of it while trying to get my memories back

The New Sages (Sidon, Yunobo, Riju and Tulin): God, I adore them/p I have almost a sibling bond with all of them, especially Tulin since he's itty bitty in the Breath of the Wild era. I wouldn't be surprised if I come up with silly nicknames for all of them

Purah and Robbie: They're dorks, but in a smart and silly way. Buut Purah pestering Link and I about our memories while trying to get them back has caused Link (or myself) to lash out a couple of times. Yeah, good stuff/s

Divider: saradika-graphics

[the-lore-and-art-cave-go-brrrrr]

Feeling a little violent cause I haven’t been able to go like twenty minutes without my wrist brace for like two days, but I’m having random alternate universe ideas and I feel the need to share.

At this current moment i am about to start another tears of the kingdom play through, because the Zelda hyper fixation is returning in full force. And as I often do when I start a new play through of this game, I have had ideas of what characters that I have could fit in what roles.

I’m about to info dump here we go: [Redacted] has so much Zelda energy to me that it’s not even funny. Like the parallels I can draw sure aren’t perfect, but they are fun.

Zelda has what could very simply equate to Light magic, much like [Redacted]. I’ve always been a little confused as to whether or not all the Zelda’s count as the mortal incarnation of Hylia, or if that’s only Skyward Sword Zelda, but still, that is another parallel to [Redacted] and Ludeius. Just the similarities make my brain go brrr in a very good way.

Astris would logically go in Link’s role here, and that’s definitely not a perfect crossover, but it is one that works.

Shalara fits for Mipha, minus the whole crush on Link/Astris thing, and her younger sister Nympha would then logically go in Sidon’s place. Magreius fits for Daruk pretty well, and their younger sister Flamma could work in Yunobo’s place. Then we couple put Fultein in Urbosa’s spot, and her younger sister (so many of these guys have younger sisters I’m now realizing) Navitas could be Riju. Then Revali could be filled by Aura ([Redacted]’s friend who betrayed him as a reminder), while Teba could be Barbs maybe? Tulin and Tempestas ([Redacted]’s younger cousin) have like the exact same energy to me.

Nox could be Ganondorf, and I haven’t mentioned Nox before, but they are the mortal incarnation of Theus, so that works with how Demise and Ganondorf work.

And then Sonia, Rauru, and Mireru are a little more complicated. I have some characters in my notes app who are marked as being [Redacted]’s ancestors, who may play into something later, idk. But their names were Anima (would be a great times like 7 aunt), Splendor (great times like 7 or 8 grandfather), and Memoria (great times 7 or 8 grandmother). So Anima could be Mineru, Splendor could be Rauru, and Memoria could work as Sonia.

I’ve been thinking about this for a while now-

Impa I think could be Lumen maybe, so I could mess around with lore stuff there. Purah and Robbie I have Aestus and Calor in mind, and King Rhoam I think would have to be Nitor, which is [Redacted]’s dad.

I don’t even know how much of this is coherent but here you go-