#but I found Anju

[skyward-floored]

I finally completed the Anju and Kafei quest 😭

[bmpmp3]

speaking of genbu's "serious" sounding tone in his voicebank, i think that might be why he was such a dead ringer for teto pre-synthv-bank-release with just a couple little gender parameter tweaks. wait do my followers know this. sorry i know most of my vocal synthesizer talk is genuinely gibberish to my beloved and loyal long time followers but do you guys know this. for a few years, people had discovered that since utau teto and genbu have this similar strong enunciation and dark sounding tone plus teto can have a bit of a tomboyish edge to her voice anyway -> if u mess with some parameters and phonemes he'll sound close enough to her, so it became a bit of running gag in the community, along with just being a genuine and novel use case for his voicebank. actually recently i found out about someone who made a couple of synthv scripts to set genbus voice to his falsetto pitch and set the tension to drop during each syllable automatically to make him sound like the utau sora amaha. genbu's purpose is to impersonate other vocal synthesizers

[miladyh]

Four the Love of a Nutcracker

Summary: One Christmas in Hyrule, a girl buys herself a nutcracker with four colors. Before she knows it, mysterious things begin to happen around her. What is the secret of her new “friend”? And who is the one-eyed man who seems to know him? A Linked Universe x Nutcracker crossover. Four x Reader pairing.

Genre: Fluff, Light Hurt/Comfort, Romance

Rating: G

AO3 Link, if you prefer: https://archiveofourown.org/works/52453850

A/N: Hello! Welcome to the first fic I've written in a very, very long time! It will be multi-chapter; it will not be finished by Christmas. I don't have a lot of time available for writing right now, so I'm aiming for spring on this. Rest assured: it will be finished eventually. Next, I recommend you read The Nutcracker and the Mouse King by E.T.A. Hoffman (available in the public domain). While my story will not closely follow its plot, it will be fun if you can spot the references. ;) Lastly, have a Happy and Merry Christmas!

---

It was just the sort of evening you had hoped for. A small blaze crackled away in the fireplace, casting a cheerful glow across the floor. Shadows danced in the corners the light couldn't reach, darting and swaying with each pop of a log. A red armchair had been placed in front of the fire. Though it was bit threadbare in places, it was far less noticeable now than it had been in broad daylight. In the flickering firelight, it looked positively plush, inviting you into its soft embrace.

Placing a book and a mug of tea on the small table beside it, you surveyed your handiwork a final time before sitting. You had spent the better part of the day decorating your cottage for Christmas, and you were ready to rest. It had been several months now since you had come here. This land was quite foreign, but you had grown to love it. The people in town were friendly, and the scenery was pretty. You wondered what it would have been like to grow up in this place.

As you had worked and saved, you dreamed of how you might decorate a home of your own. Flowers in the spring and summer. Pumpkins and harvest wreaths in the fall. Fragrant greenery in winter. Candles everywhere (you were fond of candles and lanterns). As you pondered each season, you found yourself wondering about holidays. What was celebrated here? Were festivals a common occurrence, or were they on rare occasions? You had been quite curious about the local traditions. It was gratifying to find that this land also celebrated Christmas and in a very similar way to your own.

Naturally, your excitement was unmatched when you were able to afford a home. A small cottage on the edge of town: nothing large or fancy. However, it was now your home. It was a place of your own—no more staying at the local inn and being awakened by the sound of boots tromping through the hallways.

Your home – it had such a lovely sound to it. You had been settled for several weeks now, but the thought still brought a smile to your face. You had a home, it was in time for Christmas, and you had a quiet evening ahead of you. Yes, this was a peace you had craved for some time.

You settled yourself in your armchair, tugging a blanket over your legs (a wool blanket, of course—you had no desire to go up in flames. You were appreciative that Anju had gifted it to you). Curling yourself up comfortably, you glanced at the mantelpiece. Fresh greenery lined the edge, punctuated by sprigs of red berries. In the center, a wooden clock ticked quietly, flanked on either side by a pair of candles. It was simple but festive.

Your prized decoration, though, was the figure you had just purchased today: a colorful nutcracker. He looked quite charming standing on your corner bookcase, like he belonged there all along. Your thoughts drifted back to this morning. It had been an unusual day...

…...

The wind came suddenly. The first white flakes of winter had just begun to lazily make their way downward. The breeze, barely a whisper until now, rushed forth with renewed energy like a host eagerly welcoming his guests. For their part, the flakes saw fit to curtsy and bow, swirling around in a gavotte before whisking away to new ballrooms. They did not stand on ceremony.

As these harbingers of change greeted each other, the poor souls left on the street scrambled to find shelter. While wind and snow were all very well, they did not create favorable conditions for shopping.

It was far preferable to be indoors watching them rather than outdoors experiencing their bite.

The shop bell jingled merrily as you practically blew inside, and the wooden door banged shut behind you. You blew on your gloved hands, trying to shake off the cold the same way you had shaken off the snow. Glancing up, you noticed two or or three other customers who had clearly just arrived. They must have had the same idea you did: this would be a good place to wait until things quieted outside. Really, you had been planning to stop anyway, so it was rather fortuitous.

The shop was not large, but it had been packed to the brim with goods. Typical everyday items like plates, brooms, and pails were in one section. Another was filled with food items, like mushrooms and fresh eggs. Yet another held sundries like thread, sewing needles, and sturdy fabrics. You took your time browsing. There were all sorts of things from utilitarian to decorative, and you had plenty of time to work with.

“Oh!” You exclaimed as your eyes lighted on a tall cabinet in the corner. It had been stocked with new merchandise for Christmas: tins full of spiced sweets and sugared plums beckoned you forward, enticing you with the promise of rich flavors. Miniature evergreens made of dyed feathers created a small forest which any bird would be pleased to call home. Twisted glass that looked all the world like candy hung from special hooks, catching the light in their ridges.

To the right of the cabinet sat a small table stacked with bringers of light. Tin lanterns of various heights stood next to each other like a group of revelers. Each had a different pattern punched in it: moons, flowers, simple diamond shapes. Through them all, light twinkled like private constellations. Alongside these, clusters of candles lay neatly bundled, ready to be distributed and burned. The sweet scent of berries emanated faintly from them, carrying with it misty memories and nostalgic dreams.

You could have spent hours gazing at such beautiful things. There truly was a marvelous array of goods. As your gaze leisurely traveled over the shelves once more, a small cluster of wooden figures caught your attention. Upon closer inspection, you noticed that each one was painted differently. Some appeared to be soldiers, brass buttons gleaming down the front of their uniforms. Others showed their trade, such as a baker with his bread or a carpenter holding a saw. Still others were dressed for an activity, holding fishing rods, climbing gear, or even instruments. These were nutcrackers.

As you pored over them, a particular one caught your attention. It was nestled away in the corner, almost completely hidden. Gently moving aside the figurines, you picked it up. It was shorter and smaller than the others. You might not have noticed it at all but for the colorful tunic he was wearing. It was divided equally into four colors: blue, green, red, and violet, each with gold paint mimicking embroidery. Your gaze traveled upward, and you noted that the tunic culminated in a green hood with a tassel on the end. A sword sporting a single jewel in its hilt was strapped onto the back. Above this, carved strands of blond hair hung almost to the shoulders, a headband holding it back. The level of detail was astonishing. Whoever made him had clearly put their heart into it.

The only thing that you found a bit odd was the expression: it looked almost frightened, like a startled deer. Still, no matter. You very much liked him.

As you traced your finger over the figure's tunic, you heard footsteps behind you. In your peripheral vision, a tall figure leaned close. “That one is...quite unique, isn't he?” A bit surprised, you turned fully to look at the stranger. A well-built man, quite tall, and with middling-length blond hair smiled down at you. You immediately noticed the strange markings on his face and the scar over his right eye. You would have remembered such a face.

“Indeed,” you replied. “I've never seen one like him. I...enjoy all his colors.”

The man's eyes sparkled. “Oho! You do, do you?”

He offered no further commentary or explanation. You were unsure how to respond, so you abruptly decided to change the topic.

''...are you new here in town?” You ventured. “I'm certain I haven't seen you .”

“Not exactly. My companions and I have visited before, though we rarely stay more than a few weeks.”

“I see. I'm somewhat new here myself, but not enough that I can't make recommendations. I suggest you visit the bakery before leaving. I'm told they have a new holiday bread that shouldn't be missed. Even if you're familiar with everything, new things add spice to life.” Truth be told, you hadn't tried that bread yourself. Finances were a bit tight after buying your house. But everything from that bakery was delicious, so you had no doubt that you were doing the man a favor. “Oh, and please let me know if I can otherwise be of help.”

“I'll keep that in mind.”

As you moved to put the colorful nutcracker back on the shelf, the man quickly interjected. “Oh, no, I think you should buy him now.”

“What?”

“You should buy him. Take him home, set him up somewhere. It would be...a good experience for him.”

“A...good experience?” You were confused.

“Indeed. Just now, you offered to help me. You could be of great help to me by getting this fellow here.”

...why was he so interested? His insistence was certainly strange. You started to wonder if you had been too friendly when speaking with him. Though town was generally safe, you still had a sense of self-preservation. You hoped you hadn't gotten involved with someone sketchy. But, the sensible part of you reasoned, would a dangerous person really be pushing for someone to buy a general-store nutcracker, of all things? It didn't make sense. He didn't do anything wrong or threatening; he was just pushy. It was more likely he was eccentric. Perhaps he was some sort of artisan that couldn't bear to see good work go unpurchased.

“You seem quite concerned with this,” you replied slowly. “Is it something you've worked with before?” That was vague enough. You should be able to determine something based on his reply.

The man's face remained neutral, though it almost seemed he was holding back laughter. “Indeed, it is something I have worked with before. Though I wouldn't call him my work.”

“What is your work, if I may ask?”

“In the past, I...” he chuckled. “Let's just say it involved time.”

Apparently, the man spoke in riddles. You wondered if the companions he mentioned dealt with this on a regular basis.

“Time...” The answer struck you. “Oh, like repairing clocks!” That would make sense. He would be able to discern quality woodworking, which would explain the pushiness.

His eyes twinkled. “Something like that.”

The man straightened. Something in his demeanor told you the conversation was ending. “If you need my assistance for anything, my friends and I are staying at the inn. Call me 'Time'. We may see each other in town again. ”

“And I really do advise you to buy him. You said yourself that new things can spice up your life. I guarantee that he will keep things interesting. But if you leave him now, he'll be gone in the blink of an eye.” With a friendly nod, he began to walk away.

You looked down again at the nutcracker. Just now, you had the distinct impression that he was glaring. You blinked. No, that couldn't be; the expression had not changed. It must simply be your own imagination, a passing fancy.

What a strange one the man with the scar had been. He had talked about this figure almost as if it was a real person. Perhaps that was the eccentricity of an artist.

You gazed thoughtfully at the decoration in your hands. Well, why not purchase him? You had budgeted for a few decorations, and he did catch your eye, after all. Carrying him firmly in your arms, you made your way to the front counter. Judging by the color of the sky, you'd be in here longer than you originally suspected. You might as well have a “friend” to spend it with.

….......

Returning to the present, you directed a glance at your “friend”.

“You're my first real guest, you know,” you said humorously. You had had visitors, of course, but each time had been brief. As of yet, no one had spent a whole evening in your company. Surely it wouldn't hurt to play a little and pretend he was a real visitor. “I'm sorry I can't offer you any food—you are a only decorative, after all. I would be a terrible host if I accidentally broke my guest's teeth on a nut.”

He looked a bit miffed at being called “decorative”, but he seemed relieved at your final sentence. (Of course, there was no way his expression could really have changed. This pretending business was rather fun, once you got down to it.)

“But,” you continued. “I can offer you a bit of entertainment.”

Picking up the book you had set out, you quickly flipped to the page at which you had stopped. This was one of your favorite stories. After briefly explaining the plot (you had to admit you felt a bit silly explaining it to an inanimate object), you began to read aloud.

The clock on the mantle ticked steadily and the fire crackled as your voice droned on. The occasional lilt and jump gave expression to the characters. It was a magical thing. Reading aloud made you feel so alive. You whiled away the evening in this pleasant manner, peeking up at your “guest” every once in a while. You must say, he did seem interested. You smiled slightly to yourself. What an imagination.

Directing a glance at the clock, you noted it was a bit earlier than you usually retired. Still, you had worn yourself out. It had been a long day, and all you wanted now was sleep. You carefully placed your book on the table beside you and carried your now-empty mug to the sink. Returning to your previous spot, you made quick work of banking the fire, making sure the coals would smolder through the night. While you could let it burn out, this had become a routine. Your mind had learned that as the fire slept, so could you.

You straightened up and stretched, taking one last look at your “guest”. As the firelight had dimmed, he had become more of a shadowy outline than anything else. Still, he cut a handsome figure. You smiled faintly. “We'll continue the story tomorrow. Thank you for your company. I'll see you in the morning.”

As you slowly trudged upstairs to your room, you blew out the few remaining candles. You didn't notice the faint light in the room behind you, gently emanating from the nutcracker.

(Chapter 1 of ??)

[qftim-c]

May Hailey Senpai rest in peace, If it werent for her, many of us, even me wouldn’t have found quest, to find eachother and bond.

If it weren’t for her, i may have not even been making this continuation today.

I hope shes able to see how much she meant to all of us despite her leaving the fandom, she will always be in our childhood 🕊️

Document from her server

[ym-loreposting]

Portraits in Majora's Mask 3D

The 3DS remake of Majora's Mask gave the game a major graphical overhaul and added many details to the world of Termina. These include various portraits that give a bit more insight into the backstory of characters in the game, most notably the family running the Stock Pot Inn, the family of Clock Town's Mayor Dotour and the sisters living at Romani Ranch.

Stock Pot Inn Family

The family running the Stock Pot Inn in Clock Town consists of several members: Anju, her unnamed mother and her unnamed grandmother. The grandmother also mentions her son Tortus, who was Anju's father:

Oh, Tortus. Did you finish helping father? Then let mother read you a story.

Meanwhile, she also has a diary that belonged to her husband Gampy. In the original game, Tortus and Gampy remained unseen, but via the newly added portraits, it seems they have received designs. One shows a woman resembling Anju's grandmother in a wedding dress. Another shows the same couple with a baby, presumably Tortus.

We also see a portrait of an elderly man, presumably Gampy in his twilight years before his (implied) passing by the time of the main game.

We also get a shot of the whole family. It is clear that the woman in the wheelchair is Anju's grandmother, now a bit older than in previous pictures. It is harder to determine who the other people are, though below are my best guesses based on the assumption we are seeing all five members of the family here.

Besides this, we also get a picture of a younger mayor Dotour and what is presumably a child-aged Tortus. When talking to Anju's grandmother when wearing Kafei's Mask (Kafei being the son of Dotour), it becomes clear she knew Dotour well in the past as well:

Oh, Dotour... If they pick on you, you come tell teacher, OK?

As a neat aside, Dotour can also be seen holding a Keaton Mask, which is popular among youths in Clock Town. His son Kafei also owns such a mask and wears it during the game.

Finally, the portraits also reveal that Anju's grandmother owned a tiger in her later years. At first it was a small cub, but later on it is shown to have grown into a proper tiger. Her Hyrulean counterpart in Ocarina of Time also owns such a cub, though it appears the tiger in Termina has passed by the main game. Nonetheless, Anju's grandmother still has a tribute to the tiger on the back of her wheelchair.

Romani Ranch

A few paintings can also be found at Romani Ranch, though a few relevant ones can also be found at the Stock Pot Inn. It is namely mentioned that ranch owner Cremia and Anju are friends:

In town...I have a friend. Her name's Anju..

It is also suggested by Cremia's sister Romani that Cremia has a crush on Kafei, who is Anju's fiancée and supposed to marry her soon:

Romani knows... My sister, Cremia, has someone in town she likes... But that person is supposed to get married the day of the carnival. It's hard for my sister... Going into town...

These things are reflected in the portraits. In the Stock Pot Inn, a portrait of Cremia and Romani can be found. Meanwhile, in Cremia and Romani's house, a portrait of what looks to be a younger Anju, Kafei and Cremia can be seen.

A second picture from Cremia and Romani's house seems to show the two of them in front of the Milk Bar that their ranch supplies with Milk, albeit very faintly:

Lastly, the portraits contextualize a rather odd sidequest of Majora's Mask. During the game, strange ghostly aliens attack the ranch and try to steal its cows. The ghosts attack once every year and arrive in a glowing ball of light:

They... They come at night every year when the carnival gets closer. They come riding in a bright, shining ball, and many of them come down...to the barn...

However, the portraits suggest the ghosts may stalk the ranch more often than that. This is because both in the Stock Pot Inn and Cremia and Romani's house, pictures of UFOs can be seen.

[officialclangen]

What’s the difference between medium haired cats and short haired cats in game. Is it a genetics thing or just to give players more to work with when drawing/imagining their cats

It works with our genetics system, though it is mostly to give players more to work with since visually they're identical to short-hairs!

Fun, semi-related fact that Anju (the original creator) told me the other day - he's pretty sure he made long-haired cats rarer than the others because he found their sprites the prettiest, so he figured the prettiest cats should be the hardest to get. I have to say I agree, I love the long-haired poses the most <3

☆ Fable ☆

[cricketnationrise]

7:15am, ransom and bitty, haus kitchen, “honeybee” by anju

OMG new song obsession for real. its so sweet and lovely and like perfect sunday morning vibes - thank you for the introduction! i hope you like your ficlet!!! 💜🦗

want your own ficlet? followers can submit prompts using these guidelines through Jan 31 2024 (only 4 days left oh gosh!) all ficlets submitted by the deadline will get written!

🏒🏒🏒🏒

7:15am, haus kitchen

No shade to Holster and an exquisitely co-planned kegster, but there’s nothing more perfect than early Tuesday mornings in the kitchen of the Haus. There’s no practice until the afternoon, the rest of the Haus either asleep or have already left to begin their day like the robot they claim not to be. It’s just Ransom, alone in the kitchen, watching the street wake up with the sun over his cup of coffee. It’s a nice moment of stillness before the eight AM class that kicks off his busiest day. Just him and the other poor fools with early classes.

Ransom does a double take when he sees Bitty of all people running back to the Haus, waving goodbye to Jack as he carries on for another loop of campus. He would have bet his share of Bitty’s pies for the rest of the year that Bitty would rather die than get up this side of eight on a day when he doesn’t have class until ten. 

Bitty practically dances through the front door and into the kitchen, the very picture of cloud nine, only catching sight of Ransom staring at him in shock when he twirls around toward the fridge for creamer.

“Oh! Mornin’, Rans. Didn’t know you’d be up this early!”

“I could say the same to you, Bits.”

Bitty’s cheeks go pink at that, his eyes flicking to the window. “Well, Jack offered to start checking practice again, after that last game, and the way practice has been going…” He trails off for a moment, lost in memories and Ransom doesn’t push, doesn’t want to remind Bitty even more of the hit from last season. Doesn’t want to think about how still Bitty was, just lying there on the ice, helmet thrown feet away from him.

“Anyhow,” Bitty says with determined cheer. “The only open slot was real early before the figure skaters so Jack—”

“He didn’t,” Ransom chimes in with mock horror.

“He did. Five o’clock in the morning. Well, actually quarter t’five so that we had time to walk over. Before the sun was even thinkin’ ‘bout peekin’ over the horizon.” He’s shaking his head ruefully but his eyes go soft, glancing outside once again, and Ransom feels a funny swoop in his chest. “It was real pretty in Faber though, seein’ all those pretty colors through the windows.”

Ransom can picture it in his mind’s eye, Bitty’s blonde hair etched in early morning rays like a halo, lit from all sides where the sun reflects off the ice like some sort of deity.

“I’ll bet,” Ransom manages to say before taking a hasty swig of his coffee.

“What are you doin’ up this early anyways?” Bitty asks, rummaging in the fridge.

“Got class at eight.”

“It ain’t even seven yet!”

That’s stretching it a bit, he can see the microwave clock blinking 6:59 over Bitty’s shoulder, but Ransom just shrugs. “I’ve got a packed day, five classes, plus practice after. So I started getting up earlier to have a moment to center myself before the madness.”

“Oh! D’you want me to leave? This can all wait.”

“No!” Ransom clears his throat before dropping his voice back to a reasonable volume. “I mean no, you’re fine to stay. I’d like you to, if you want.”

Bitty watches his face for a long moment before the furrow in his brow clears and he takes Ransom at his words with a wide smile. “Well then, sugar, you’ll have to taste test this french toast recipe I found the other day while studying for that food history class Jack and I are taking.”

“However will I survive?” Ransom deadpans, pleased when Bitty dissolves into giggles.

“I’m sure you’ll muddle through somehow,” he says solemnly, teasing Ransom right back.

Ransom sits back and watches Bitty flit around the kitchen cooking up a storm, lets his torrent words wash over him and fade to a pleasant buzz, and soaks up the honey-sweetness of Bitty’s presence, ignoring the clock for now. 

He’s got plenty of time.

[madigan-thompson]

Surprise! A Knil - Hero of Sorrows character sheet! She is one of my favorite OCs so how could I not? 😊

Backstory: Knil grew up in Termina Field, just southeast of Romani Ranch and north of Woodfall Swamp. She and her father had a farm of their own, though they mostly focused on produce, such as apples and Termina Wheat. Knil was the one who would take and sell their product to Romani Ranch as well as Clock Town, where she became friends with Cremia, Kafei, and Anju.

When the moon first began to descend as the festival drew closer, Knil was one of many who wanted the festival to be canceled and the moon to be dealt with, especially when the poison from Woodfall began to infect their farmland. However, she still ventured to Clock Town, determined to support her friend's wedding, only telling her father to stay home. She had visited the two the night when Kafei was cursed but left before he was confronted by the Skull Kid.

When she arrived back home, Skull Kid was there, having turned her father into a tree (I know that is basically the same as the Deku Butler's son, but the man was fussing over his apple trees, so the Skull Kid decided to have fun with trees again). She charged the Skull Kid, like Link did in his version of the timeline, and attacked him, but Skull Kid turned her to stone, thinking a girl leaping at him with a pitchfork would make a cool statue.

With her sorrow, regret and ferocity impressing Termina's gods, they pulled together the rage, sorrow, hate, and regret of all the people of Termina and formed the Fierce Deity Spirit, infusing it in the petrified girl.

She was free from the stone but overcome by all the power and rage and went on a mindless rampage as a demon god of war until she passed out and was found by the Happy Mask Salesman.

You've met a Terrible Fate.... haven't you?

Three days remaining...

[musical-chan]

Father of Time Chapter 27: What makes you happy? Does it make others happy, too?

When Deity returned to the Inn later that night, he found his son perched on his bed with a strange instrument in his hands, made out of what were apparently fish bones.  He had never seen an instrument quite like that before, though what remained of his connection to Termina whispered an idea of a memory in his head. Link's unsure fingers would pluck out notes but they were often awkward and sour. 

"What is this?"

"Oh! Hey dad, I got a guitar at the Zora hall today! It cost a thousand rupees!  I used to play it with the mask but I bet I could learn it on my own too. I can kinda almost remember notes if I think about it."

"Ah."

"Hey, how'd the rest of your day go?"  The boy set the guitar on the bed, rubbing his fingers to ease the raw spots that had started to form.  Pressing on the strings was more painful with his regular fingers than he expected. 

"It was fine. I have settled my business here." 

"Can we go look at the tower tomorrow?" 

"Certainly." 

"Hey, um…" Link paused, grappling with the words he wanted to say. "I thought…you told me you weren't bothered by Termina.  So, um, this morning…and destroying the temple. Uh…"

"I did not realise until we came here that I was bothered. I'm sorry I inadvertently lied to you." 

"Oh man, no, dad, I don't think that's a lie really if you didn't know it. I guess I just thought maybe you weren't going to tell me or something."  A knock at the door paused the conversation and Deity walked over to open it.  Anju was there, holding the baby and smiling up at the god.  

"Oh, hello!  Kafei and I were wondering if you'd like to join us for dinner tonight? You're still our only customers and we can set up extra seating in the kitchen.  I thought it would be nice!"

Deity glanced over at Link and the boy nodded enthusiastically.  He looked back down at the redhead and inclined his head. "We would be honoured."

"Great!  It's all ready so come on down."

A year ago, if someone had told Link he was going to have dinner with his deity father and two friends from Termina, he would have thought that person was crazy.  It felt a little crazy even still. Everyone treated his father so normally here. Mostly normal; he still got the occasional look due to his height. At dinner, both Anju and Kafei were at ease, even sitting so close, and they involved him in conversations as much as they could. Deity never really understood the desire to fill a space with words but he would answer questions if asked and chuckled at all the correct places in stories. 

So it was about as normal of a dinner as Link could remember with his father.  Eating, talking, watching the baby make a horrible mess of itself.  Kafei was scooping out a third helping for Link and he glanced up at the god while setting the bowl down. "Did you need more?"

"I am fine. My thanks."

"For someone your size, I expected you would be the one who ate more but I can see why Link has gotten so tall.  He eats enough for an entire family."

"Mmmmph!"  The boy pointed his chopsticks at the chef with a glare but Kafei only laughed. Deity sighed at his son, wondering how long it would take him to remember his manners.

"Link, do not speak with your mouth full."

"Mrmph mrr."

Anju giggled as she scooped soft rice porridge for the baby. Not much ended up inside the infant but she did not seem concerned.  "So, Deity was it?  Does your height run in the family? Will Link be tall as well?"

"In a manner of speaking, yes. Though I doubt he will be quite as tall."

"Well, that's nice! He seemed like such a small boy back then but you two are so similar, it's no surprise he grew into the height. I bet he'll be taller than Kafei someday! 

Link blushed at being the focus of the conversation but at the same time it was nice.  It felt normal in a way he didn't get to experience often and he was glad the couple had invited them to dinner.  A part of him grew sad at the idea of leaving in a couple of days but a bigger part couldn't bear being away from Hyrule forever either.  He'd miss home and Malon and everyone else he'd grown close with.  But Termina wasn't that far away, right?  He could probably come visit!  As long as the tunnel in the forest didn't just disappear someday, he could come and go as he pleased.  Now that he knew this place was just as normal as home, he didn't think he wanted to give it up.

Later that night in bed, he stared up at the ceiling with his hands behind his head, thinking about home and Termina and all the other places he'd seen since freeing his father.  He loved the idea of travelling and seeing new places but he also wanted to do things at home. When spring came, he wanted to start a garden maybe. He wanted to keep working at the ranch. Maybe he could convince Talon that it was safe for Malon to visit. And they had to keep patrolling for all those new monsters showing up. How could he do all that and find time to travel? 

He paused for a moment, then exhaled loudly.  He was only thirteen. There was definitely going to be plenty of time to do lots of things.  He bet other kids his age didn't worry about that.  Those thoughts definitely seemed more like the weight of adulthood on him than normal worries. It would be fine.

He'd find a way for sure.  

After all, wasn't he the Hero of Time? He'd find a way to do it all. 

(Read the rest on AO3!)

so much lovely domestic fluff in this one. Also, you get to see what happened to the Stone Towers after FD was done with them.

[melancholicwriteaholic]

Legend of Welp! #321

Soldier: Link has run out of quests to do!

Commander: Link has run out of quests to do!?

Soldier: I’m afraid so, sir. He finally won all of the carnival games, found the last sea shell, and made everyone in Hyrule happy and financially stable!

Commander: This isn’t good. Well, I mean it’s wonderful, but also it isn’t GOOD!

Noble: I don’t understand what’s the matter. Link is one of Hyrule’s most vigilant defenders and a helper of the needy. If he has finished everything he wants to do, doesn’t that mean Hyrule is at its best condition?

Commander: It’s terrible, sir. Link is Hyrule’s greatest hero when there is injustice to fight and prizes to be won. But in times of peace... well... take a look for yourself.

The commander points out thewindow to where Link stands in a field. The usually bright young boy has an aura of menace about him.

Link: My time as Hyrule’s saviour has come and gone. From now on the hero is no more! I am now Link, the ultimate MENACE OF SOCIETY! I vow in these peaceful times to spare nobody my mischief!

He dawns a kitton mask and gives an evil laugh.

Link: NO ONE SHALL BE SPARED! I WILL BREAK INTO HOMES AT NIGHT AND STEAL CHEESE! I WILL BOTHER PETS AND FARM ANIMALS! I WILL SMASH VASES IN THE DEAD OF NIGHT WHEN EVERYONE WANTS TO SLEEP! MWA HA HA HA HA!

The soldier and commander shake their heads. The noble swallows nervously.

Noble: Well, that certainly seems... pretty bothersome. But Link does generally listen to the counsel of his friends. Maybe if they talk him out of this he will listen?

Commander: Look again.

Link is surrounded by his friends from all over Hyrule. They clap and cheer at his speech and promises of mayhem.

Navi: There are PLENTY of pots to destroy in castle town!

Fi: Use me to search for treasure while you raid, master.

Darunia: Remember to use BOMB FLOWERS if you need an extra kick to get rid of obstacles that get in your way!

Malon: Make sure Epona gets lots of exercise! Use her to leap over fences!

Anju: If you find any cuckoos while breaking and entering bring them to me and I will give you a reward!

Great Fairy: And come to me if you’re ever in danger of facing consequences for your actions. I will heal you up.

The noble shakes his head

Noble: Well, he’s totally loyal to Her Majesty and her family. Perhaps they will stop him?

Commander: Look again.

The hero is approached by the kings and princesses of Hyrule.

Zelda: Link, you goof. You can’t cause mayhem all over Hyrule without my permission. Here! A signed letter giving you permission to enter any region with the royal seal of approval!

Ruto: And my permission to enter the body of Jabu Jabu, my people’s sacred deity, anytime you want if you want to search for treasure in there.

Riju: This royal helm, which is an important tool of my people, is yours to wear as well. As well as this gown for if you want to break the law of my land and come into my royal home!

King Bosphoramus Rhoam Hyrule: Remember to keep yourself warm with fires at night. Here’s my torch, axe, and some flint to get yourself started.

King Daphnes Nohansen Hyrule: And keep in touch with this stone on your travels, Link, just in case you need a royal pardoning.

King Harkinian: And don’t forget your SMART SWORD!

The soldier and commander sigh.

Noble: Oh. We are doomed.

*** *** ***

There’s a meme in The Legend of Zelda fandom that Link is a horrible mischievous gremlin child, and that is true. But I NEED everyone to undestand that his horribleness is ENCOURAGED. His friends, bosses, and the Gods themselves WANT HIM TO BE A HORRIBLE GREMLIN CHILD.

They sell him bombs at an affordable price. They meet up with him in secret places that require him to break into the key political building of their Kingdom (A hanging offence if I’ve ever heard of one). They are IN ON THE ACTION of his quests.

[tempkiriri]

Tiger & Bunny Week Day 6

Straight to the point:

April 6: Short Story

(i couldn't think of a title. Appearing characters are: Antonio, Kotetsu, Tomoe, Kaede, Anju, Muramasa and Ben)

It was the final episode of the season, and Wild Tiger was nowhere in sight. Antonio found it rather odd, his best friend was always punctual to a crime scene, and if he had to guess, at least ten percent of Tiger's point total came from that first to arrive bonus. So to miss the very last day of the season...well, Antonio didn't need to think about it for long. His Communicator started to ring. Looking around, none of the other heroes were reacting, so whatever the call was, it was just for him. He shuffles himself into the background before shaking his wrist to answer the call from under the armor.

"Oh hey, you answered!"

"Kotetsu? What are you doing calling me on this? Where have you been?!"

"Aha, haa...right, I didn't have time to tell any of you. Tomoe went into labour around three this morning,"

Antonio's eyes widen from underneath his helmet.

"And, well, I was waiting for you guys to finish up the episode to tell you. Do you wanna come meet Kaede?"

"Kaede- oh! I'm glad everything went well for you both! I'll be right there!"

-

"-And who are you here to see?"

"Tomoe Kaburagi."

"Relation to the patient?"

"Well, I'm uh-"

"He's my sworn brother, I guess you could say." Kotetsu walks up towards the desk, spinning his hat with his hand.

The receptionist looks between the two men, and shrugs to herself. "Go on, then." She dismisses them both with a gentle flick of her hand.

Antonio grins at his best friend, and gently slaps his shoulder. "You look like shit!" He teases with a cheesy grin.

"Barely five hours of sleep, approaching fifteen hours awake." Kotetsu tries not to yawn, laughing back as they trot back towards the room. "But uh, make sure to sanatise your hands before you hold her, alright? There's a bottle in the room."

"Ah, so all her checks and tests are done, then." Antonio nods, then looking Kotetsu up and down again. With a slight smirk, he slaps what bare chest Kotetsu is showing with his unbuttoned shirt. "Oi, skin to skin is done too!"

"Ehhh, I'm gonna take it off later, anyway. No point in buttoning it back up." Kotetsu stretches as he tries to hold in a yawn.

"Well- oh! Yeah, the ceremony. You sure you can make it? Without falling asleep on the way there, I mean." Antonio snarks.

"Maybe a coffee could help..." Kotetsu puts his hat back on his head as he weakly yields his arms.

They lighten their steps as they approach the room, and Kotetsu pushes the door open. Antonio enters first and looks about the room, and he's the third and seemingly final guest of the occasion. He silently waves towards the new grandma and uncle, the former holding the newborn. Muramasa waves back, a warm smile on his face.

Anju lifts her head up as she hears the door open, expression lighting up. "Oh- Antonio, it's wonderful that you could make it! Come here." She keeps her volume low.

"Hola Anju, Muramasa." He greets them in return at a matched volume. But before he steps any closer towards Anju, he detours over to the bed Tomoe is in, and squats a bit to get closer to her level. "Yo, good job back there." He grins at her, only to be met with a slap.

"That's all you have to say?" Tomoe replies rather sarcastically.

"Nah, no way." Antonio beams a smile at her. "But it's not easy to put into words, y'know? I know I'm plenty strong, but I think you're on another level, Tomoe. Hell, you look better than Kotetsu does, and he didn't even have the baby-"

"Oi!"

Tomoe turns her head and snickers at her husband's reaction, then looks back at her friend. "Well, thank you...it means a lot that you could make it."

"Hey, so what if I'm late to the awards? There will be many more ceremonies, this can't be repeated." Antonio stands back up straight, and looks back at Anju. "But, uh...you sure I can hold her?"

"You're like family to us, Tonio." Tomoe reassures, pausing to yawn. "We're sure."

Antonio turns himself to walk over directly to Anju. Within Anju's arms is the tiny Kaede. Antonio stares down at her, nerves rising. Quickly glancing himself up and down and then back at Kaede... "She's just so...tiny." He mutters. "Are you guys-"

"Toni, just hold her." Kotetsu cuts in.

Antonio glances at Kotetsu, then back to the newborn.

"...oh, you're nervous." Anju holds back a laugh. "Mura, please help the man ready is arms."

"Alright, ma." Muramasa sits up, and grabs hold of Antonio's now suddenly stiff arms, cranking them into position. "Relax, Tonio. You won't break her. Take a deep breath."

Antonio does as suggested, and tension in his body is eased.

In a blink of an eye, the newborn is now laying in his arms, wrapped in warm blankets. Looking down at Kaede as she squirms around to get comfortable, it fills him with emotions he can't quite describe to himself, all he knows is his heart feels warm.

"Kaede..." He whispers, tears welling up in his eyes. "Little Kaede..." He keeps his arms steady as he pulls her closer. "...I...I'm your...Your Tio, got that? It's not just your mom and pops that will protect you, I'll help them too. I...I'm not sure how often I'll get to see you, with my job n' all, but I'll keep you close to my heart."

What follows is a warm silence. Antonio looks back over at Kotetsu, who gives him a smile back.

And then their eye contact breaks as Kotetsu turns to the door, drawn towards it by a quiet knock.

No one says anything, and the door slowly opens.

"Eh?! Ben, how'd you get in? And- is that coffee you have?"

"Managers can get places without disclosing the identities of both parties, I thought you knew this by now. And, well- I thought you'd need something to perk you up." Ben keeps his volume low, slowly closing the door behind him. "Good evening, everyone. Glad to see you're all here. Oh, and congratulations." He gives the group a smile, and then he turns to Tomoe. "You don't mind that I'll be borrowing him for a little bit, will you?"

"Only if you get him back here before midnight." Tomoe jokes.

Ben chuckles and nods. "I can do that. I don't think he'll even last till ten."

"Bennn..." Kotetsu sighs in defeat.

"Oh, uh-"

"...Ah! Rock Bison, I didn't recognise you out of your suit. You can hitch a ride with us if you need."

"R-right, um. Yeah, that would be great." Antonio nods, then glances around. "Where- where do I put her?"

"Here, dear." Anju holds her arms out. "I'll put her to bed." She smiles at him. "You both go out there and stand proud, alright?"

"Make sure to look good, too." Tomoe adds.

"Well, now that you've requested it, Tomo-chan..." Kotetsu perks up a little bit as he starts to walk out with Ben. Antonio almost stumbles to follow after them.

-

"Welcome one and all! I'm your host Michelle, and you all know what time it finally is! It's time to announce who's won King of Heroes for the season of 68'! For those at home just tuning in, let's go over the heroes one more time!" A pause to clear her throat away from the mic. "Napolitana, Rock Bison, Wild Tiger, Big Howler, Mountania, Miss Miracle, and last years King- er Quee- Monarch, Silent Night! Every hero has worked hard to defend the city this year, but only one can take all the glory. Let's show those scores!"

The lights dim, all focus is on the screen above the heroes. The heroes themselves have a smaller screen to look at near the floor, hidden from audience view.

Wild Tiger yawns, stretching his arms above his head.

"Coffee not strong enough, Tiger?" Bison teases.

"Shuddup." Tiger replies.

"You had coffee? Musta been shit if you're yawning." Napolitana tosses in a coffee. "Me Nonna passed a strong recipe down to me, next time ask me for coffee." She insists.

"U-uh, I'll...consider it."

Their eyes focus back to the screen. Heroes stop holding their breath one by one as their final score tally is shown to them. Fourth is Mountania. Third is Rock Bison.

Tiger can't help but yawn again, squeezing his eyes shut.

"And with ten thousand, eight hundred and seventy-five points, our King of Heroes this season is Wild Tiger!" Michelle announces.

"Wh- what who-" Before Tiger can let his victory sink in, Bison pushes him forward towards the mic stand.

"Go on, you've earned it." He encourages.

Tiger glances back at his best bud. He takes a moment, but nods, stepping forward.

He clears his throat and grips the mic stand, leaning in.

"Uh, I didn't expect to achieve something like this so early in my career." He pauses, letting his next words process in his mind. "And- I'm sorry I couldn't make it for this last episode this season. But I had to be there for my family. Behind every hero is a family that supports them, and I really couldn't have gotten here without them. And for seasons to come, I promise to protect them in turn, as well as the families that make up Sternbild!"

Tiger smiles right into the camera before pulling his hands off the stand and stepping back in line. The crowd cheers him on.

"Huh, wasn't expecting something so coherent from you." Bison softly jokes as Tiger walks back.

"Hey, I'm including you in that too." Tiger tries to butt Bison's armor with his elbow.

Bison takes pause in that for a moment, then gives him a soft but hearty laugh.

[songofstealing]

So had this little plot bunny and I ended up thinking about it when I should've been doing my assignment

It just kept growing and growing so I wrote it down

Basically,

So the events of Ocarina of Time and Majoras Mask are switched

Time goes on his majoras mask adventure first

Then Ocarina of Time

How would that change things

OR

Time is actually from Termina

Either he was born there or

Maybe when Escaping thru the woods from the civil war

Links mother ends up basically tripping thru into Termina

She'd probably brute force her way and ends  up all the way in Clock town (cuz the Lost woods entrance still ends up in the underground Cavern with the floating platforms, which now that I think about it... how would she get across??

She probably found another way in)

I can't think of one person to take care of Link

Maybe the mayor? So he's Kafei's little brother

Maybe with Anju's family

I also momentarily thought about the blacksmiths up in the Goron village but I don't think they'd be good parents

I can only think that he's just a village raised kid?

Everyone chips in to help and he has his own home where he's kept a close eye on when he's old enough?

I'd like to think he'd be the kid who, like Kafei in game, is always wandering around town with a mask

And it changes each time u see him

(Even if it's just be turning away and then back around, it'll still change)

He's a troublemaker with the face of an angel so he gets away with his pranks aside from a select few people

Probs hangs out with the bomber kids tho not actually apart of the gang

Also plays with the other kids who comes into town doesn't matter if they're a different race

(Probs befriends the deku butler's son that way, Oh no that will be sad)

Likes to go exploring so always sneaks past the guards even tho they try to keep him in since its dangerous out there

Also I like to think he collects ocarinas

If it makes a note and it's Brightly coloured it's his

Different sizes, different hole numbers, funky little deku scrub shaped ones he'll love it

Maybe he makes some too

And masks?

Thatd be cool, if he could slowly work on making his own masks with new powers

Also he probs befriended skull kid, tatl, and tael which will make it super angsty for when majora pops up

There probs wouldn't be a big climactic skull kid attacks link and turns him into a scrub

I think he'd be there when skull kid grabs majora

Would he be down with stealing from a stranger? Or is he someone who plays Light hearted jokes on people He knows

Or would he add to the chaos then later turn around and try to fix everything since he blames himself?

So obviously he doesn't have the Ocarina of Time

But I like to think that Hylia had already chosen him as the next and couldn't allow him to die in Termina so she granted him the ability to Revert time even without the ocarina?

Maybe she imbues one of his

Maybe it's just the song and he can whistle it or a mask??

Also also I read Antartique's "Gifts of Termina" and absolutely loved the Termina head canons they had

From the calendar being different, to the Schroedinger-ness of Termina, and the possibility of Link being able to talk to the spirits of the transformation masks

And because I love linking everything Zelda related to Jojo's Linked Universe

How would this change Time's personality? Would he stay in Termina even tho he's technically from Hyrule?

And how would his abilities change?

If anyone has any more ideas or head canons I'd love to hear it!

And ignore the broken font and formatting pls I was fiddling around with it and couldn't figure out how to change it back

[dexrm]

kare no hime | 彼の姫

This story will contain mature themes.  Read at your own risk.

On the night of your wedding, Sukuna disappears.

Chapter seven - Loss

Previous chapter

Next chapter (upcoming)

-

“What a lovely man I saw earlier,” Aoi laughs.  

“What happened?” you ask, helping her tidy her bedroom.  

“A young man who offered to carry a cart for me in return for money,” Aoi explained while wiping the floor.  A big visible smile stood there.  Aoi doesn’t smile very often.  

“He must be a kind man,” you reply, looking through Aoi’s husband’s book shelf.  But then it hit you.  Why Aoi smiled at another man so brightly instead of her own husband.  You glance at Aoi, living in her own world.  You won’t comment on it.  After all, her husband was never home.  But it would be a big betrayal on him, knowing his wife is longing for other men.

“He will be coming over for tea today,” Aoi couldn’t keep in her calm persona anymore.  

“That’s great,” you respond.

“When you see him,” she went on.  “His name is Zenin Toji.  Address him as Zenin-sama.”

-

“Why do you want me to get out of the house so quickly?” Sukuna asked as you pull his hand with you.  Almost tripping out of the house, you try to run with your grip on his wrist.  But he was too sturdy.  “We will be married tonight,” he gently hisses.  

“I want to spend time with you,” the excuse wasn’t entirely a lie.  

Dragging him onto the streets, you think of where to go.  

Rice cakes.

“Get me some rice cakes,” you point at a stand at the end of the street. 

“Getting demanding before we’re married,” Sukuna gently jokes as he walked to the direction you pointed.

You never realized how tall Sukuna got these months.  By this time, he was his original height.  Jujutsu or not, you knew he was eventually going back to looking like a beast.  You two would have to move out of the village.

But Toji Zenin was visiting today.

If he ever found out Tsuku was Sukuna, you weren’t sure what would happen.  Toji was the one who gave you to Sukuna in the first place.  You weren’t sure if there was a deal involved, but clearly there were bad intentions.  Toji Zenin was not a man to be trusted. 

Tsuku might go back to Ryomen Sukuna.

Your stomach twists in discomfort after the thought of that.

You wait.

It’s been a while, but you couldn’t quite see Sukuna with the crowd of people, so you decide to walk to the stand. 

“Sukuna?” you yell from a distance while getting closer and closer.

Sukuna stood there, with rice cakes for you.

“What took you so long?” you ask, taking a bite.

“I had a bit of an inconvenience,” he said, looking at the sky.

You hold his thumb while continuing down another street.

His gaze was unsettling, always turning his head to see what was behind him.  But you squeezed his hand, assuring him whatever it was, you would be there for him.

But truthfully, if he weren’t Tsuku, you would kill him.

Ryomen Sukuna slaughtered your entire village.

Because he could.

“Sukuna, who was that?” you ask.

“Who?” he replied, startled.

“I know you were talking to someone,” you were now scared, and annoyed.

“No one, Fushiguro,” he raised his voice.  “Let’s go.”

“Tell me,” you let go of his hand.

“It shouldn’t be of your concern,” Sukuna said, losing his patience.  

You decide to let the argument slide.

-

“When’s the guest coming?” Anju asked.

“Soon,” Aoi said, her fingers twitching.

You sit down next to Aoi and her sons waiting at the entrance.  You sent Sukuna out so Toji doesn’t spot him.  Anfuku wasn’t as excited as Anju though, he only appreciated the actions of Ryomen Sukuna.  

“I’m going to prepare confectionaries for the visitor,” you scurried into the hallway.  If possible, you wanted to avoid seeing him at all.

While in the kitchen, you hear the sound of laughter and kids giggling.  You wish Aoi could send Anju or Anfuku to the kitchen to retrieve the food instead of you going back.

Toji was the last man you’d like to see.

“Is the mochi ready?” Anju’s voice asked from outside the kitchen.

“Yes,” you replied.  

Anju came in, grabbing the plate of red bean filled dessert and ran off.  Opposed to Anfuku, Anju didn’t like having conversations with you.

You see Anfuku.

“Why are you here?  Go back with your brother,” You say.

“The man is strange,” Anfuku frowned.  “I like Tsuku better.”

“Don’t be like that,” you secretly agreed.  “What was he like?”

“Smiled a lot,” Anfuku ran in to open cabinets, probably searching for sweets.  “He asked a lot of questions.”

“Like?” you pull out a hard candy, handing it to Anfuku.

“He asked if we had a monster in the village,” Anfuku explained.  “He asked us if we knew someone named Ryomen Sukuna.”

“What?” you freeze. 

“Ryomen Sukuna,” Anfuku started getting nervous.  “H-he said it was a monster with four arms and pink hair.”

Gently grabbing Anfuku’s tiny hands, you rush to the room where Aoi and Toji were sitting.  His signature smug face was sitting there like he didn’t know you.  Toji wore a much more normal person kind of clothing this time.

“We’ve met before have we?” you ask.

“Sit down,” Aoi whispered.

“Looks like we have,” Toji gives you a long, unreadable stare. 

“You two know each other?” Aoi gives you a confused look.

“He saved me once,” you say.  You look at Aoi.  “I should be dressed up by now, Aoi.” the stare Toji gave you was like looking at an old friend you haven’t spoken to in a long time.  Except, you two weren’t friends.  

“Go change yourself, may you?” Aoi smiles.  

You nod.  Aoi’s obvious fondness of Toji did annoy you, but it’s not enough to anger you.  She obsessed over most components of your wedding, but now she’s giving those desires up for a man.

You walk out of the room, slightly pissed.

-

The wedding attire you wore didn’t feel special.

Sitting alone, you apply on simple blemishes of white makeup onto your face.  It was lonely, but it wasn’t a big deal.  While it never occurred to you why Ryomen Sukuna and Toji Zenin would both use you, you can’t help but feel a hint of sadness.  Deep down, you were aware of the fact you’re a chess piece.  A chess piece that didn’t engage in combat.

You pull out a piece of paper and a small bottle of ink from another drawer.  You haven’t written anything in so long.

But you started to write something.

One day, a fox hunted a sheep.

The fox put the sheep in a tigers cave.

The tiger took the sheep but did not kill the sheep.

ある日、キツネが羊を狩っていました。

キツネは羊をトラの洞窟に入れました。

虎は羊を奪いましたが、羊を殺しませんでした。

You think, and continue writing.

The tiger knew the fox was sly, so he waited for the fox to come back.

虎はキツネがずるいことを知っていたので、キツネが戻ってくるのを待ちました。

You stop.

Gently putting your brush down, you stare at the words you wrote.  

Took you long enough to know what kind of chess piece you were.

-

Spending a hour sitting in your room thinking drove you nuts.  But you had to head to the shrine soon.  Today, you were being married to Ryomen Sukuna.  The same body who murdered your family.  

“Come out!” Anfuku yelled, excitement building up in his voice.

You slowly get up, limbs numb.  

Upon opening the door, you see him and Aoi.

Shooting a look of disappointment at her, she continues to smile.  You couldn’t believe she would fall for that Zenin mans tricks.  Ever since you were small, you understood not everyone kind to you meant it.  People were only kind to you if they think you’re useful.  Except Tsuku.  

“Where’s Tsuku?” you ask.

“I have not seem him, but he should be back soon,” Aoi replied.

“Tsuku said he was on a walk!” Anfuku barged into the conversation.  

“Has the guest left?” you cautiously walk down the hall.

“Zenin Toji?  Yes, he has,” Aoi says in a much more lovely manner.  

A small pit of anger built up inside you.  Toji is a fox.  Much worse, actually.

Outside of Aoi’s house were a small crowd of neighbours cheering.  You didn’t know the names of a few, but they were the rare ones who thought Tsuku genuinely was a good man and not a monster.

“Where is the groom?” a man wearing all bright colours asked.

“On a walk,” Anfuku squeaked.

“Your generation is so careless, how can you be on a walk at this hour?” an old woman snapped.  “When I was young, men would spend the entire day waiting in patience!”

“I’m sure he’s probably running back by now,” Aoi laughed it off.

You look both directions on the street.  You sense no Sukuna.  You knew he didn’t forget about it.  He loves you, doesn’t he?

He does.  Tsuku loves you, but whether Ryomen Sukuna did was debatable.

So you guys decided to wait.

While Aoi was busy with the neighbours, you were in your room.  Not exactly panicking, but also incredibly anxious.

You took out the piece of paper.

Since you had time, you pulled out ink and a brush.

The tiger was cursed with memory loss.

The sheep decided to save the tiger.

The sheep and tiger are together now.

One day, the tiger is attacked for its skin.

トラは記憶喪失の呪いを受けました。

羊はトラを助けることにしました。

羊と虎は今一緒です。

ある日、トラが皮をめぐって襲われる

Suddenly, you felt your stomach hurt.  

Rushing out of the room, you call for Aoi.

“Where can he be?” you felt your heart pump restlessly.  “What if he is hurt by the village people who hate him?”

Aoi’s expression changed.

“Let’s search for him,” 

-

The sky slowly darkened.  Drops of white fell from the sky.  It was not so warm anymore, as temperatures drastically dropped.  The roofs slowly piled up with snow, sidewalk puddles now were icy slush.  Anfuku was also shivering.

“Tsuku?” the man in bright colours shouted in the centre of the village.

“You guys didn’t kill Tsuku, did you?” a lady asked a bunch of other women.

“He is odd looking, but we don’t have a reason to kill him!” one of them said.  

Person by person, you interviewed them like a maniac.  Your eyes were red and swollen from the dust and tears.  But one by one, they said they haven’t seen him around.

An old grandpa carrying bamboo on his back made his way up to the village from the forest.  You knew him, he was the man who once sold a table to Aoi.  But he was so old to the point his eyes couldn’t open and was almost bald.

“What is going on?” he asked, now behind you.

“I-I’m trying to find my fiancee,” you say, desperate.  “His name is Tsuku.  He has pink hair and-”

“I think I saw someone with pink hair in the forest,” he replied.  “My eyesight is not great, I apologize.”

“Was the man tall?” you spoke in a loud manner.  For the first time, you lost it.

“Oh I did not dare to make a sound, it was not even a man,” the old man pointed out.  “I was deep in the forest, when four armed pink hair beast was walking,” his gaze felt weak as the old man was describing what he saw.  “I waited until I was sure he was gone.”

“Ryomen Sukuna?” Anfuku shrieked from behind you.  “A monster?”

“Child, I am unsure, I’m old,” the old man sighed.

You looked at the direction of the forest.

“You said he was somewhere in there?” you ask, tone cold.

“Yes,” the old man’s voice sounded surprised.  “Young lady, that beast I saw is not your husband.  He is not human.”

The wind harshly blew into the direction of the forest, tree’s now covered in snow.  

“Anfuku, tell your mother I will be out there searching for Tsuku,” you pat his head.  

“What?  Can I come?” Anfuku grabbed your sleeves.

“No Anfuku, it’s snowing,” you hold his small hand.  You notice a glowing lamp someone left on the side of a cart.  “Can you give me that?”

Anfuku ran to pick up the lamp, then runs back for you to hold it.

“Will you be okay?  It’s pretty cold,” Anfuku sounded so innocent.

“I’ll be fine,” you head down the pathway to the forest. 

The longer and faster you walk, the further Anfuku was.  He was still standing by the hill, waving. 

The snow got into your eyelashes several times

You stopped at the entrance of the forest.  There were no more footprints.  The snow was so heavy nothing but white could be seen.

You step into the dark cold woods.

Step by step, you search for any sign of Sukuna.  He was now a big man, surely some signs of him would exist.  Surely.

-

“Tsuku?” you shout.  You took hundreds of steps into the forest. 

No reply.

“Are you scared?” you suddenly start crying even more.  “It’s me!  I won’t be scared of you.  I know having four arms is strange but,” you stop.  “Please tell me where you are!”

No response.

You gave into the possibility of it happening.

“Ryomen Sukuna?” your voice echoes throughout the forest.

Still nothing.  Not even an animal.  Just snow and wind.

As your fingers turned red, forming frostbites, you realized how underdressed you were.  Every body part of you wanted to give up.  

But you needed to find your husband.

“Where are you?” your broken wails weren’t enough. 

The sun had already set.  The warmth lantern had was only enough for your finger tips.  Snow was heavily falling from the sky, and the wind only added to the struggle of walking past the thick, white, cold substance.

“Tsuku?” you scream with the last breathe you had inside you.

No reply.

But you spot footsteps.  Large footsteps almost getting filled up with snow from the blizzard. 

As you follow the path, you spot red stains on the side of the track of footsteps.  Sometimes they were a few drops, but one had a whole puddle.  

On the middle of a steep hill of snow and dead plants, you spot a figure lying there.  A big man, with four arms.

The original body of Ryomen Sukuna was now fully developed.

“Tsuku!” you ran down the hill to him.

His eyes were still open.  His entire body was hotter then a pit of fire, but his heart was still beating.

“What happened,” you cry, holding his hand. 

Sukuna’s stomach was stained in red, metallic smelling liquid that was blood.  You take a closer look at the injury.  Something stabbed him.  Your white shiromuku was now tainted in red, sides ripped because of the tree branches holding onto it before.  

Sukuna slowly lifted his hands to your cheeks.  They were warm.

It looked like he had been like this for hours.

“You’ll be a widow if we get married now,” his hoarse voice made you lose it.  You burst into sobs and cries.  Your entire body hurt from it.  You didn’t want to be alone.  “Can you one last thing for me?”

“Yes,” you whispered, sitting down, lifting the upper half of his body on you.  His head laid on your chest.  You squeezed his hand.  But his stomach started bleeding again as you moved him.

“Sing for me,” he laughed.  “I want to hear you sing.”

Breaking into silent tears again, you quickly wipe them.

You start humming.

You weren’t even sure what you hummed.  You just knew it was something you did while putting Anfuku to sleep.  What the little boy requested every night.  

He diligently stares at you.

Sukuna’s death meant you were free from the binding vow, at least you think.  But this time, you didn’t want this to happen.  Sukuna’s death and Tsuku’s death will forever be different.  

Maybe, one day you two will meet in reincarnation.

One day.

One day was in another lifetime.

“If there’s another life, I would finish our wedding,” you say, holding his hand.  You felt your eyes swarm with warm, salty tears.  

“I promise we will meet in our next lives,” Sukuna whispered.  “I will find you.”

“And I will wait,” you respond. 

He grinned, teeth now big and sharp.  Sukuna didn’t cry.  You never saw him cry.  He never shed a single drop of tear.  He was smiling like the first night you met him.  Like an insane man.  He smiled like he was on top of a mountain of gold.  A man like Sukuna, no, Tsuku, never spoke too much.  He rarely smiled.

“Go,” he pushed you.  “There might be wolves, go.”

“But how do I cremate you?” you cry.

“You staying alive is more important,” he hissed.  “Fushiguro, go!”

“I don’t-”

Sukuna flashed a final glare at you.

“Farewell,” tears ran down your cold face as your voice faded away from the crying and screaming.

You smile, putting his head down.  You take out a frozen piece of rice cake preserved in a wrapper, and place it into his pocket.

You walk away from his body.

He doesn’t return that smile.  His eyes closed.

For most of your crying sessions, he would be there for you.  He would comfort you.  But when he felt humiliated by the village people mocking him, he wouldn’t let you go near him.  You knew he felt like an ugly monster.  He only had you, and you only had him.  He was unlike Ryomen Sukuna.  When Sukuna was angry, he would go massacre a city.  Tsuku didn’t yell.  He would sit there in silence, or smash a couple of plates when he thought no one was looking.  You could feel the anger and fury in him when he was called an oddly faced giant, but he didn’t say anything.  He would hold in all his pain and anger.  You wonder if that’s what Sukuna faced when he wasn’t some beast.

You couldn’t cry.  Not because you didn’t want to, but your face was frozen.

Step by step, hour by minute, you walk back.

Tsuku is no longer in your life.  He is forever gone.  You weren’t sure if you saw him as Ryomen Sukuna or another individual.  The severe, oddly burning pain inside you was getting increasingly worse.  

By the time you reached the path to the village, you felt your head burn.  Everything felt surreal.  Everything looked blurry.

“Fushiguro!” voices called out from the top of the hill.

- - -

This is not the end guys!

[pr1ncessavar0se]

Do you have any voice actor headcanons for Lady and Akari?

I do!!!

Lady's voiceclaims with links can be found here! (her Japanese voiceclaim is Anju Inami and her Enlgish one is Natalie Roers!)

and for Akari, her Japanese voiceclaim is Yuki Sakakihara!

and their English voiceclaim is Ashleigh Ball!

[laikaflash]

I combed a 5-hour-long Let's Play video for the kanji alone. In hindsight, I should've gotten most of them from that last bit where the character libraries are unlocked. (￣m￣）

My intent was just to add the kanji for the supporting characters in Setsuka's Soul Chronicle. Then it hit me that most of the kanji for Shugen's name on the Wiki was wrong. Like, "I googled it and only that page came up" wrong. Right sounds, wrong logograms, I can only guess. (I know, kanji's hard...)

Below are transcriptions, in case our good friend compression comes in to play, with the timestamps and my rough translations:

First screen, Shugen meets Setsuka (Timestamp): 驚かせてすまない。私は……遠宮舟元。("Sorry to startle you. I'm... Tōmiya Shugen.")

Second screen, Gyobu elaborates on Shugen's dark past (Timestamp): その"裏九重の呪ぃ"が生んだ最強の刺客……。それこそが幼名「鳴神丸」。後の九重舟元尚陰よ。("The strongest assassin was born from the Hidden Kokonoe's curse... His childhood name was Narukami-maru. Later known as Kokonoe Shūgen Naokage.")

Third screen, a little later, Gyobu starts to tell about a woman Shugen met long ago (Timestamp): 女の名は安寿。お主と同じ、異国の血が混ざった女だー。("That woman's name was Anju. Like you, she had a mix of foreign blood.")

Fourth screen, character libraries unlocked (Timestamp). Here's where I found the kanji for Sakan Inobe (伊野部主典) and Gorozaemon Yamabuki (山吹五郎左衛門) in full.

Source link will take you to the part where Setsuka's story starts. To be honest, there still are Let's Plays that lift me out of a bad mood and いすけ_ゲーム実況's have been doing the trick lately.

[guideoftime]

▴ — @puxrlunae ;; Sheik & Amaron. I made a nest for you. You can sleep in that, if you want.

"...?"

"Amaron, husband, Hero, heart, light of my life--I know you've been spending a lot of time with Anju lately, and the cuccos, especially with the new babies hatching but... people don't sleep in nests."

And Sheik, was very much, not a cucco despite how testy he can get when also stepped on. How does someone even make a nest for a human being? What did Amaron do? Drain all of Epona's hay and drag it into the house? The mess that would make--he did not want to be the one to have to clean that up. He already hates mucking the horse stall, as much as he loves the horse.

Still, curious enough to see what Amaron was taking about, he follow his husband from the library downstairs and to the main area. Their little living room and kitchen nook, the combined areas that were small yet cozy. Their little house, designed originally for just a very small family, was tight but welcoming and each space of it was filled with enough stuff to bring a warmth rather than a hallow and empty feeling. Which was what it really was before Amaron moved in.

He brought such life to the house.

And right now Sheik wants to kill him.

"What--in Hylia's name, is that?" It was like every single blanket, pillow, comfort they owned was dragged downstairs and thrown into a massive pile with tent like structures mixed in with it all. He had one blanket hanging from the ceiling in a draping motion, along with what looked like dust from a fairy to create soft glowing lights. The only thing keeping it from being a fire hazard was that Amaron had the common sense to put the fire out first. And bless his heart for thinking ahead with that. Sheik doesn't want to build the house up a third time.

Sheik can even see Kasus' ass sticking out from between several of the blankets and what looked like also their own clothes.

Again, he's reminded he was raised so very different from these two.

"Honey," and Sheik has never used that endearing word before. His gaze drifts over toward his husband beside him. "Despite how I found you living in your second life, you are aware you're not a wolf, right?" He loves this man, he loves him for trying. "I don't want to cuddle with your dirty socks."