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your-local-e-gorl · 2 years ago

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Where the Dragons Cry

Chapter 2

“Hello?” I ask. A woman is at the door with a bright smile on her face. “Hi, I’m Prima from the Inn. Link told me that there was someone injured in the house and that they’d need some extra help. I’m here!” She’s such a cheery woman, I automatically find her trustworthy.

“Hi, I’m Viana. I’d be the injured person,” I say awkwardly. “Although he exaggerates.” Her eyes are crescents from how hard she smiles. “I see. Well, what can I help you with? I’ve brought food as well!” I accept it gratefully, my last real meal finished. “Thank you! I… couldn’t ask you to do any more. I’d feel awful. Would you mind keeping me company? I do feel a bit lonely.”

Prima guides me into the kitchen. “It’s surprisingly clean!” She gasps. “Yes. There are a few cobwebs that I can’t reach but I’ve done my best.” She looks around the house in awe. “I feel a bit bad. He paid me to clean as well.” I look at the bedding in the corner and the food in the kitchen, an idea for independence brewing. Well, then could I pay you as well to teach me a few things?” I finally ask.

She looks shocked. “I couldn’t take two payments! But I’d be happy to teach you whatever you need to know!” She walks to the cabinet in the kitchen. “Tea? I can teach you how to make this first. I assume you’re not a cook?” I shake my head. “Not for the life of me.” Prima grins at me. “Perfect. I love a challenge.” She’s so kind to me! Without complaining, Prima takes to walking me through the steps and even allows me to pour the tea myself.

“Not bad! You made a great brew! Now, do you like cream, sugar or honey?” How does Link make it? I look at the brunette and shake my head bashfully. “I can’t recall how Link fixes it, but it’s sweet.” That seems to give her an idea. “That’s all I need to know. Let’s put this much milk and a big spoonful of honey.” She shows me the measurements before adding a bit to hers. “Try it.” I sip the warm beverage before letting out a noise of awe. It tastes exactly like the tea he made me.

I watch as she sips happily as well. “He takes his tea a bit sweeter too. Now you can make it!” “Thank you!” I feel myself smile with a touch of pride. I really made tea!

After we finish the tea, Prima moves on to the bedding. “Your leg is broken, right? I won’t make you carry these. But I will show you how to clean them!” I hobble after her like a duck, eager to learn. I don’t know how I’ll ever repay her.

It’s a busy process of spinning them and dunking them in the outside trough. How Link juggles all of this is beyond my comprehension. But I’m sure with a little practice I’ll be able to help!

When we hang them from the line, a beautiful smell fills the breeze. “Is that the laundry that smells so wonderful?” I ask. She nods with a smile. “Yes! The wind scatters it so perfectly!” Prima says happily. “It’s one of the hardest jobs, but it’s so rewarding. Especially after the sun dries everything.”

Prima continues to show me how to do small tasks here and there, talking all the while. It’s odd having someone who chats so freely. She says whatever is on her mind, ranting about her job. “It’s fairly boring at the inn. Not a lot of travelers come through,” she explains. “You’re actually the most recent visitor that we’ve had. Where are you from again?”

I pick at my lunch as she finishes up her duck. “Toronbo. Have you heard of it?” Prima nods slowly. “Near Eventide Island, right? I’ve heard of it. Rumors say it got ransacked by stalkers.” I fee lmy body tense. “News sure travels fast,” I murmur. “An event that big hasn’t happened since the Calamity! Of course it spreads.” I stare at the woman in confusion. “The calamity?”

Prima stares at me with wide eyes and her mouth agape. “Have you been living under a rock?” She asks honestly. “In a temple of sorts, actually. What is this Calamity?” “Man, you’ve really missed a lot. Do you read? I’ve got some books I’m sure would come in handy,” she suggests. “I’d be very grateful for some. I’m sure I could read your text.” After all, I have read all of Link’s books in the house. “Perfect. I’ll bring some over at breakfast. I have some time before work. I’ll teach you how to fry an egg!”

By the time the sun sets, I’m alone again. However, I’m alone with multitudes of things to do, like cleaning the pile of muddied shirts. I take to cleaning them in the trough, the light of my orb illuminating the small area.

My hands scrub vigorously as I try to clean Link’s gear. They’re so filthy, I wonder what he’s managed to bring with him! Not to mention some have small holes, like tears? What does he get up to out there?

The fresh smell of lavender and soap fills my nose as I continue to scrub and wring them out. Surely it’s warm enough for them to dry tonight. There’s not even a scent of rain. I don’t think there has been since I’ve come here.

…..

“Good morning!” I stare in shock at the woman in the house. “I-it’s five in the morning,” I gasp while holding up the alarm clock. “Yes, yes but most of us are early starters. Best to start when the sun is new!” She starts to approach me before sighing. “Though I’m sure you’re not used to an early wake up call. Would you like me to take care of breakfast?”

I force myself from the bed with determination. “No, I asked for this. I’m ready,” I yawn. She helps me down the stairs with a smile before handing me a cloth. “This is called an apron. It keeps you clean when you cook. Leop had an extra!”

Prima helps me to put it on and claps her hands. “Now let’s get to it! I’ve got about an hour before my shift,” she informs me. “Thank you! I’ll do my best!”

Cooking with Prima is unbelievably fun, and it’s super easy to follow. The way she walks me through chopping and mixing is patient, her presence never leaving mine. “Is everyone here so kind?” I ask. Prima grins awkwardly. “Kind of. Hospitality is important. But there are a few people that are a bit… much,” she laughs. Prima passed me the pairing knife. “But everyone is nice when you get to know them.” I practice cutting my vegetable as she continues to talk.

“You should totally visit me at the inn later! It isn’t too far, I could arrange an escort?” I stare out the window longingly. Surely it's fine for me to go for a while? To explore the place that’s become my new home. But I couldn’t hinder her any longer. “Perhaps.” Hesitant to be a bother, I remind her of the time by passing her a packed lunch. “You’re going to run late for work. Don’t forget this.”

Prima beams at me and takes it. “When did you finish this?” “When you were grabbing the books.” She examines it with content eyes, much like a child when you feed it. “Thanks, Viana! Well, I’ll make sure to enjoy this later!” Her response is so genuine, it brings a smile to my face. It’s odd being Viana. Just Viana. “Still, I do think you should see the town. I’m sure I can ask my dad, Leop about it,” she suggests as she heads out. “I’d appreciate it if you could!” I reply. “Thank you again!” “Of course! If you need me, just find me at the inn!”

And soon it’s silent again, save the noise of the birds outside. I’m left to eat my lunch by myself and suddenly it crosses my mind. Is this how Link feels here? It certainly is lonesome, I’m sure that’s why he’s on the road. Maybe he’s looking for his family?

The idea of the poor man fills me with a bit of sadness. Someone so kind shouldn’t be alone. Or have to work so hard. Perhaps I can lighten his load while I’m here? Rather than just pulling my weight, I want to repay him wholeheartedly.

Making up my mind, I set my lunch aside and head out back. First thing I should do is take care of those pesky little cobwebs. If I brighten up the place, I’m sure it’ll be easier to relax for him.

It’s a strenuous task of moving the heavy oak chair around the room, but it’s great exercise. Or at least that’s what I tell myself to get my mind off of the dull ache in my leg. I wonder when it’ll fade away for good. However, the room already looks significantly better.

I open the windows to allow the breeze in, sighing in joy as it fills the room. It’d be only better with a sea breeze. When I head outside to fetch the clothes, I’m left with the predicament of how to fix them. I’m sure if I ask Prima, there’s a way to mend them. And that is exactly what I’ll do!

I quickly clean up to head out, and it’s amazing! I stare in awe at the sight. People walk around care free, it seems like they're not in a hurry at all. Nobody is hauling water or lugging food- they’re all either inviting people to shop or resting! It's amazing! I clutch the jewel on my chest in excitement. "Oh!" a child tumbles over my feet. "Are you alright?" I ask. He grins with a sun kissed face.

"You're pretty!" he shouts. I blush in embarrassment. How straightforward. Another circles in. I assume that I interfered with their task of playing. "I've never seen you before! You new?" The children are just like the ones from my tribe. Carefree and happy. And very straight to the point. I like it!

"Yes, I am." They grin to each other. They resemble siblings strongly. "Are you a princess?" the young girl asks. “You look like a princess.” I nod while dusting the boy off. "I am. I'm Viana from Toronbo." She squeals with joy, taking my words as if I’m telling her a fairytale. "A princess! How cool!"

"What're you doing here?" I tilt my head. "Something bad happened to my home and I washed up here." I sigh sadly. "So now I'm here until I find them. The boy frowns. “Wait, you’re from that place in the paper!" I tilt my head. What paper could he mean? Regardless, a child shouldn’t have to worry about my woes. Where are we, may I ask?" "Hateno! It's north of the lagoon!” “It’s a real peaceful place. There’s no monsters here!”

They bounce around me curiously. “How long have you been here?” “Why do you walk like that?” “Have you met anybody-“ So many questions fly at me, I almost get overwhelmed. But their energy is fun! “I’ve been here for almost a month. It’s my first time leaving since I hurt my leg. I have met Prima. I’m actually looking for her now!” I explain.

The two look at each other. “We know Miss Prima! She works at the inn. I can take you there,” the boy offers. “Would you? I’d be so grateful!” The girl smiles happily. “Let’s go!” They drag me after them at a steady pace, leaving me thankful that my legs are longer than theirs. I would fall behind otherwise.

We pass a building that has plenty of familiar vegetables but the fruit perplexes me. “What is that?” “An apple. They’re delicious!” I make a mental note to stop here as well. “You’ve never had one?” The girl asks. I smile at her, excited to share some information on my home. “No, we grew bananas and palm fruit. Have you had one?” Her eyes grow round like saucers. “I love bananas! They’re hard to get here,” she sighs. I can see why. The climate is so different.

My heart fills with warmth as I spend time with the pair of children. The lack of worries puts me at ease in the unfamiliar environment. “The inn is just ahead!” The boy calls to me, tugging my hand gently. They pull me along with smiles so bright, I feel one creeping on my own face.

“Miss Prima! We’ve brought you someone!” The boy shouts. An old man holds the door open kindly as they drag me in. “Hmm? Oh! Viana!” Prima smiles as if she’s genuinely happy to see me. “You made it here!” she cheers. “Yes, these two lovely children helped me find my way here.” Prima turns to them with a bright smile. “Thank you, Nebb. You too, Nara.” She rubs their hair quickly causing them to laugh. “You’re welcome!” The boy, Nebb chimes.

“It was fun!” Nara adds. “Thank you both for bringing me here,” I say gratefully. “Will you play with us later?” The children beg. It’s like they see me as their friend already! “I’d love to!” I agree with a twinge of joy. “Alright! We’ll see you then!” I watch them run off, leaving Prima and I.

She turns to me with a smile. “Did you need help with anything?” I nod while pulling out one of the torn shirts. “I’ve noticed holes in these. Is there a way to repair them?” I ask. Prima nods while taking it. “Wait just a second. I’ll be right back!” She runs up a set of stairs before running back down to me with a case in hand.

“You can sew it by hand. Like this.” She pushes a small thread through a needle carefully before pushing it through the cloth. “It’s really easy. Just go slow and you won’t poke yourself.” I watch intently as she continues to sew the hole together before tying it off. It’s much like suturing a wound.

“Would you like to try?” I nod and take it from her. “Yes please!” It’s fairly easy, the hardest part being making it even. “You’ve got it!” Prima cheers. I feel myself smile, pride in my chest. I’ve learned so much already, all thanks to her. “Thank you for teaching me!” Prima nods her head before grinning. “You’re most welcome!”

Prima pulls a chair behind her desk. “Why don’t you hang out here for a little? I can help you sew some of these up since I’ve finished most of my duties,” she offers. “It wouldn’t be a bother?” I ask. “Of course not!”

We spend the afternoon patching up the few shirts that I brought and sipping tea while talking. Prima is a lot like me, never going past our home town. Her father owns the inn and she helps out. She’s very noble.

By the time the sun begins to set, we’ve finished up all her chores and sewed every hole. It’s such a fulfilling experience. “Thank you for helping me,” I exclaim, overjoyed at the day I’ve had. Prima laughs happily. “I enjoyed today. Sorry for having you help me with my work,” she apologizes. “Don’t. I really enjoyed learning these things. If I could have helped more, I would have.” Prima takes my hands in hers. “You truly are a sweet person! Thank Hylia we got to meet!” My heart throbs with a warmth I’ve rarely felt. She’s grateful to have met me.

I squeeze her hands softly. “It is a blessing,” I agree. Her father approaches with a kind smile. “There you girls are. Thank you for your help today, I know it was a bit busy! It’s getting late. Prima, why don’t you walk her home?” Leop hands me a wrapped container. “And don’t forget this. It’s a creamy chicken soup. For your hard work today,” he says. I stare at the warm dish in my hand with increasing joy. “Thank you! I’ll savor it!” Prima giggles. “My dad is a great cook. I know you’ll love it!” Saying my goodbyes to the elderly man, Prima and I set off.

…….

"Wait- this actually tastes good?" I gasp. The bandages on my hands throb as I stir the steam covered pot. My heart swells with joy as I stare at my accomplishment of the pot of fluffy rice. I actually cooked something! I can't believe it!

Link will be so surprised when I show him my progress. I hope he'll praise me, unlike Feodore who would just tease and complain.

Feodore... I wonder. Is his body still there? I should probably sail there once my boat is fixed. Of course, I have to find a way to salvage my canoe first.

The sharp throb of pain startles me from my thoughts. "Ow," I whine. I hiss at the slight blood as the door opens. Link steps through, exhaustion on his face. "Oh! You're back!" I hide my bloody finger behind my back. "Welcome home! To your home, I mean. How was your trip? I bet you're tired."

Link doesn’t answer, instead he gestures to my leg while dropping his bag. "My leg feels a bit better. I can walk and maybe run. It should be good to go soon!"

Link frowns before he sniff the air. I nudge a chair with my ankle before nudging him into it. He shouldn’t have to stand after such a long journey. "If you’re hungry, there’s grilled meat with soup! I hope you like it." He smiles gratefully. "Thank you. It smells delicious.”

A hint of relaxation crosses his face. Its nice to see him enjoy something that I worked hard on. His hand points to mine as I tuck them into my skirt. "My hands? What of them?" I ask. One is pulled up carefully. He has very strong hands. They're also slightly scarred and rough. Like a warriors.

His eyes go from the bloodied bandages to my face in search of an explanation. "I cut them a bit. I was learning how to cook. I thought it’d be beneficial to learn," I say shyly.

My hands are cradled gently to my surprise. "I see. Does it hurt?" I nod quietly. "It's fine though! Pain is temporary," I exhale. I remove them softly, trying to ease his mind. "No worries! Eat up and rest." He sure does have a kind heart, to worry so. I’ll have to be more careful going forward!

Link watches as I set a cup of tea in front of him. “It has courser bee honey, from Prima. She says it’s great for restoring stamina after a long day of work,” I inform him. “She says it’s sweeter than regular honey. It’s addicting.” I stir a spoonful into my own cup with a bit of eagerness. He doesn’t talk much, and I’d rather not force a conversation. But he doesn’t seem perturbed by my chattiness either.

“It’s all so good,” Link admits quietly. “I’m surprised.” I find myself smiling at his words. “I am as well. Enjoy, and then we can have a treat from Leop. He’s so kind, making all of these desserts.” Link smiles as well. Food definitely seems like his interest.

We share a sweet little apple dish, each of us both focused on our share. It’s perfectly sweet, with a bit of crunch from the crust. “I’ve never had anything like this. It’s exquisite!” Link looks at me in shock. “You’ve never had apple pie?” “Never. Sweets were not like this on my island. I could eat these all day.” I finish my slice with a content sigh. “Take the rest of mine,” he offers. I glance at him in question. “I couldn’t. That’s specifically for you. I’m actually pretty full.” My excuse doesn’t seem good enough as he gestures to it.

“Eat it,” I tell him. “I can always learn to make this. Apples grow in your yard.” He stabs his apple pie uncertainly causing me to chuckle. “Would you like more tea?” I ask while pouring myself a cup. Link nods his head and pushes his cup up. It’s still warm as I stir the honey and cream in. This is fun, drinking tea with Link. But he looks so tired, I fear I can’t keep him any longer.

“You should go rest. The blankets are freshly washed, so they smell very pretty.” Link shakes his head. “I’ll clean up first. You’ve worked hard to make this on a broken leg,” he acknowledges. “I’ll help. You’ve been traveling all day,” I insist. I refuse to back down on my stance. Link frowns before standing up. “It’s alright. I-“ I ignore him and take the plates from the table. He rushes to fill the sink, looking flustered.

“Princess Viana, I don’t feel comfortable having you do housework,” he says quickly. “Just Viana is fine. And I like doing housework.” I stare challengingly at him, daring him to stop me. Instead, he gets to drying the dishes as I wash them. It speeds the process up amazingly. Unlike when Prima and I do them, getting carried away chattering.

“Thank you for your help. Why don’t you call it a night?” Link yawns before nodding. I walk outside to set scraps in the bucket only to return, finding Link fast asleep on the couch. I shake his arm to wake him. “Link, go to your bed,” I urge. “You’ll sleep much better up there.” His eyes flutter shut once more, my words forgotten. I sigh and do the only thing I can, drag a blanket onto him

#botw link #legend of zelda #link au #linked universe x reader #tears of the kingdom #link x oc

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your-local-e-gorl · 2 years ago

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Where The Dragons Cry

A story where a young girl falls from the sky. Following a terrible event, she meets Link and helps him along his journey.

Link x Reader from the sky

Just a drabble while off my meds. Warnings, will eventually contain smut, my mental illness will show! This may get dark! I am also altering the timeline because fuck it! I’m a god!

Chapter 1

…

"Lady Viana, what's on your mind?" I turn, the ocean fading from my view. My beloved guard, Feodore, smiles encouragingly. "Nothing," I respond.

"I can tell from that look. You can be honest with me.” I fiddle with my hands as I debate my words. “Feodore, you know much about the world. I want to know too." Feodore's smile slowly fades into a stern look. He knows where this is going and is quick to shut me down.

"Princess, we've discussed this. We all have a role to play. Yours is-" "To offer prayer and follow in my mother's steps. But don't you think there's something more out there?" I ask. "The world is full of things that can and will hurt you. I won't humor this any longer. It's time to go to the reflecting pool. We’re falling behind schedule.”

I cross my arms sorrowfully. This is why I never talk about what I want. It always gets ignored. My wants are insignificant to this chain of life. “Fine. You can make me go, but you can’t make me focus,” I mutter under my breath.

…

"Viana, why the long face?" I sigh resolutely. "Grandmother..." The lady sits beside me, bow on her back and sword on her side. Even at 103 she’s still feisty. “Why must I be confined to this lagoon? Everyone else can leave. Mother and father even said I could venture out when I turn of age. I've been of age for at least a year!" I protest.

Grandma chortles, the opals on her cheeks glistening in the moonlight. "Patience. You've got much to learn, such as reading the sky and how to protect yourself." I huff in frustration. "Then teach me! Feodore refuses to! What good is a guard if I don't leave anyway? Who’s going to target me here?”

I release my breath heavily. "Come. You see that star?" I follow her slowly. What is she on about? "There?" "Yes. The star is always north. Now here- this is how we measure the stars." I smile as she walks me through the steps. Someone is willing to teach me.

"Grandma, do you think I'll ever use this?" She smiles wide. "Via, my dear. We come from warriors, voyagers and many more. What do you think your place is in this?" I shrug weakly. "Mother says I should be a high priestess just as she is. Someone must take over."

"Do you want it to be you?" I shake my head. "Not one bit. But everyone says that it must be me." Grandma approaches me and tenderly grasps my shoulders. "Here. For you." I gasp at the necklace decorated in opals and pearls and the brightest aquamarine jewels.

"It doesn’t sound like you’re the one to follow an unwanted life. When you decide the outcome of your path, should you ever leave. Remember that each of these will give you something. Each jewel is worth it to someone out there." I smile gratefully. "Thank you.

…

"Oh, my goddess, I feel so stuck. I know I must follow the path set for me, yet I feel as there's more to my life than this!" I cry out to the statue. "Mother says I should offer my prayer diligently. Father and Feodore say I should focus on devoting myself, but it feels wrong! Grandmother says I need to explore, and tells me stories of miraculous places. I just... Feel so stuck."

I take a stabilizing breath. "Please, guide me." As I finish my prayer, a noise like roaring startles me. The ground shakes violently. My head turns quickly as the water ripples around my waist.

"Viana!" "Feo?" My eyes widen as I see the red running down my guard's face in thin streams "What happened!" "These things- they're like spiders! They brought fire and it's not safe! Please, you have to hide!" My hands tremble. "Mother and father- grandma! We have to-"

"They're gone! Your grandma tried to fight back but she... She vanished. Your parents are helping the others to run." My chest throbs as I collapse. "No. No, this can't be?" I pulled to my feet.

"Viana. Take this canoe and flee. You must ensure the clan survives," Feodore urges. I'm pushed forward as a beeping noise starts. My head swims rapidly, like I’m a child unable to comprehend. “What? No- I can’t make it alone!” I shriek while reaching for him. He continues to push me frantically. I’m shoved into the pole in a last desperate attempt to keep me at bay.

"Go! They'll destroy us all!" he shouts. My boat is launched as a blast echoes. Heat licks at my skin as I cling to the rope. Shock shits my legs down causing me to lose movement.

"Feodore!" My shrieks are futile as the metallic beast focuses it's eye on me and my canoe. Please... Goddess no. A white light captures my view as the impact rocks the water. This is it-

…

My eyes widen as my body is shaken. Water forces itself from my mouth as I cough violently. This is awful. It's painful. I feel like I haven’t breathed in years.

"Where- am I?" Warmth startles me as I look up. A strangely beautiful man stares in concern as I cough once more. "Who are you?” My vision blurs as I blink. It hurts so bad. I whimper as I curl tightly. No tears will be shed in front of this strange man.

"Ah!" I let out a groan as I'm set against sand. Why am I alive? How am I alive? The others? "My people," I groan. "I have to get back... I must help them." I can't be too far from the lagoon. As I attempt to stand, a terrible scream leaves my lips. My vision fades slowly as I go careening headfirst towards the sand.

I wake up sore and sweaty. My limbs barely stretch. Something unfamiliar causes me to look around. This isn't my dwelling. There's no water. The sleeping object is warm and dry. Heavy as well. It isn’t the lily that I sleep on.

A moan of agony escapes my lips as I sit up too quickly. Luckily, I manage to breathe through the pain. What... Happened?

I was in the lagoon. I was praying to Hylia. The ground shook. There was red. Everything was... Red. Feo loaded me on a canoe when the monster came. That monster- that monster was attacking us.

I struggle to my feet, stumbling occasionally. My left leg is almost excruciating to stand on but I have to get back. Maybe there are survivors? They'd think I abandoned them. What if-

"Ah!" I hiss sharply as heat licks at my wounds. I fall from some indoor landscaping. A light illuminates the room and a figure quickly rushes to me.

"W-who are you?" I gasp weakly. A cough wrenches itself from my body. It's a boy. The very one who helped me off the crashed canoe.

"I- thank you for your aid but I must get home, can you show me to my canoe?" I ask through ragged breaths. I’ve never felt pain like this. The boy stares with uncertainty. "Please, I beg of you. If not- it might be too late! My people will all die!" I plead.

His expression turns to one of worry. It's not every day this happens. He slightly shakes his head. "Why not!" I almost demand. I didn't ask to be brought here.

"Dangerous." I glare. "I do not care! The lives of my people- my home! It's all at stake. I need to get there.” Why should he care! My anger is misplaced. “You need… you should rest,” he says softly. The tone says that he doesn’t believe they’re still alive. “I insist you let me leave,” I return firmly. I will not fall victim to wasted time. Not when every second could be a second towards saving my family.

I manage to stagger from the strange dwelling and drag myself down a hill with this silent man behind me. He doesn’t say a word, only carries a worried expression that really manages to get under my skin.

"If you're not going to help, then go away!" I say. My bare feet meet the sand, still cool to the touch.

About five minutes down I see the canoe. I hobble quickly, pain spreading throughout my bones. My face falls at the tattered sail, the broken steer and the frayed ropes. There’s no hope of fixing it as I am. Maybe I could pay someone to fix it?

I open the hatch and check for more ropes, startled by blood on the wood. Food, a water pouch, a bag and- "N-no. Grandma," I gasp. Her signature bow and quiver is covered in blood. Smears paint the arrows as if she was trying to fight.

All at once, my legs lose strength when I think of Feo running with this, the image of him frantically looking for me. "No!" I sob. Mother's diamond and opal head dress lays around the bag, frazzled and smelling of death. If he had left these- if we could have made it a fraction earlier, I could have forced him onto the boat. "No! No, no, no- please!" I beg to the sky. Nothing is given as a response. Just silence.

How do I lose everything in one day? Why did I not fight with my people? I'm a coward! A good for nothing write off. Why am I so powerless!

Hands touch my shoulders gently. I look up through blurry eyes. "What?" I sniffle. The man kneels and offers a cloth. I freeze for a moment at his act of kindness before coming to my senses a little. "Thank...thank you. And I'm sorry. This is an unbecoming sight of someone like me. Forgive me."

My face is gently cleaned as I drop my hands weakly. I don't know what to do. The life I knew is suddenly over. I'm lost in this feeling of grief. What comes next? Why would Feodore leave me alone?

More tears slip free as I curl, protecting the jeweled crown. "I'm sorry," I cry. I repeat the phrase rapidly as if begging for forgiveness of the goddess.

"Don't apologize." His voice is light and quiet. Very soothing. A hand drops in front of me. "Come on. You've got to continue." I accept his hand- a light in the dark- despite my tears that continuously flow.

I gasp in pain as I put pressure on my leg. The man steadies me as I stagger. I inhale to catch my breath slowly. I've got to keep going with my head held high. As of today, I’m the new leader of the Talakaa clan.

My thoughts are interrupted by my feet leaving the ground. "W-what are you doing? I'm heavy, put me down!" I choke. He looks at me as if I'm crazy. This is embarrassing! Being treated like some child!

"Please, you'll hurt your self," I warn. The man snorts in disregard. I squirm to attempt to get to my feet. He stares at me but continues to walk regardless. I sigh nervously. I'm not used to being carried friendly like. I've never been 'the stranger'. I've always been the princess. I wonder who he is. He has to be a guard, seeing at how he man handles me. It’s much like Feodore would, however it’s much more gentle.

…

We sit in silence, which is odd. Even more so, he keeps staring at me. Discomfort causes me to stare back. It is now a staring contest that neither of us is backing down from.

"Yes?" "Why are you staring?" He shrugs his shoulders. "Better yet, why are you helping me?" Silence follows. "Well?" "Because you seem like a fighter."

I freeze. Me? A fighter? I turn away. "I see. I think we’re both going to be surprised. Im not a very good fighter. And you have odd reasons for saving people. Most do it for a reward, nowadays. But thank you for your hospitality... If I'm ever able to repay you, please do not hesitate to let me know. I will be out of your hair by tomorrow," I inform him.

His face is slightly stern as a hand touches my face. "Where will you go? You've got a broken leg and a fever." I shrug lightly. Hes very friendly despite his peculiar attitude.

"I'm not sure. But I cannot impose any longer." He shakes his head firmly. "Stay until you're better." I frown sheepishly. "Are you certain? I would hate to be a bother. You've already saved my life," I object.

He nods quietly causing me to frown further. "At least let me repay you somehow. For intruding on your quietness. I'm sure your family would be upset." He chuckles at my words. "There is nobody. It's just me."

I look at him softly. Just him must be lonely. "Really? Then I shall do my best to not interrupt your lifestyle." I remove my diamond earring and offer it to him. "For you. It's not much but-" "I don't want your possessions. You don't have to feel bad. I'm glad someone can be here to keep the house while I'm gone."

"Gone? Do you travel a lot?" I gasp. He nods. "How amazing! What is it like? I've heard there are mountains that stretch all the way to the heavens! And areas that snow!" I inquire intensely.

"I've heard the ocean goes on forever." The man smiles fondly. "It's rough. But enjoyable. You meet a lot of people."

…

A hand touches my forehead gently. I tighten my eyes in protest. "Hmmm. Cold."

My breathing is ragged as I fight to look up. "Mr. Hero. Good morning," I rasp. He hums and walks up the stairs. My eyes close again and opens just in time to see him leaving. "Take care," I croak.

Time passes and soon it's evening again. I have to pray or else. I force myself out of bed, lightening the load on my wounded leg. If I shuffle slightly I can step on it without sobbing.

By the time I make it to the beach, the sun is high in the sky. It was much faster being carried. Gratitude fills my chest as I sink into the water. Most manifests from my orb, reflecting an image in the water as I try to call out to anyone. Anyone at all.

To my delight, it’s my gramma. "Grandma! I'm sorry that I couldn't protect you," I pray. Her spirit smiles softly from the water, the orb on my head slowly allowing me to form a better connection to her. “My girl, don't cry. I fought along with my people for almost 100 years. I'd gladly do it again."

My tears mingle with the water. "But why? I don't understand why I'm the only one to survive. Did I disappoint the goddess? Was this a punishment for my reluctance to be the next priestess?"

My breath comes out shakily. "Punishment? The goddess does not punish." "Then why-" Grandma smiles kindly. "You're the missing piece. This is your destiny. Avenge the Talakaa tribe and stop the disasters." “Stop the disasters? I couldn't even prevent my people from dying! I'm a failure!"

"This is mere fate. You were destined for this path just as I was destined to become a spirit." I hit the water. "I don't want this- this destiny is wrong!" I shout. Rage fills my chest at the turn of events. I don’t want to hear this at all! I want my family back!

"Viana-" "I don't want to do this! I can't do this!" I panic. My lips tremble. "You can. I'll be with you. In here and wherever you are." I inhale. "How do I?" I exhale. "Don't worry about how, just answer the call. You'll know when it's time."

Water drips to my cheeks. I cannot tell if it’s a tear or mist from my grandma. “Our time is running short. Keep your head up, my girl.” "Thank you. I'll be strong. I promise. And. If you see the others, tell them I'm sorry. I couldn't say goodbye."

More water falls before dispersing the spirit. Somehow I feel stronger. Yet weaker. I have to do my clan right.

The dizziness in my body is consuming me. But I must continue to be diligent in prayer. I have to strengthen my will. I can't stop anything if my heart is weak.

Footsteps sound in the water rapidly before I'm face to face with the hylian. "What are you doing?" he mutters. "Praying. I-" "You are sick." I wave him off. "This is my duty. I'm fine."

I'm picked up quickly. "You don't have to watch over me. I'm not here to burden you." I protest and attempt to get out of his arms. "Anyways, I thought you were leaving?" "For supplies."

I huff as I'm brought into the house and set on the couch, my breath shallow. The man goes to the kitchen before returning with a cup of something strange smelling and odd clothing.

"For you." I tilt my head. "Clothing? What is this beverage?" "Tea to help your fever." It must have cost him a fortune to have this brought here. "I'm sorry. I promise I'll pay you back!" I swear.

He waves dismissively before turning. "Feel free to change. I'll be in the kitchen." I clear my throat. "Thank you." How do you dress?

The man suddenly apologizes. "It must be hard, with a broken leg. If you need help-" I smile gratefully. "I think I can do it. Mostly. My guard usually did this for me," I laugh awkwardly. "Your guard?" I nod.

"I had a guard named Feodore. He was responsible for everything including my protection down to my meals. So I'm a bit useless. But I'll learn!" I promise. He must be regretting his decision to save such a useless waif. The man turns thoughtfully as I manage to get my garb off. I slip an arm through and somehow end up in a horrible tie.

"Um-" His eyes dart from my chest to my face before he goes red. "I'm sorry!" I bow apologetically. "No, I-I-“ he freezes up before finally closing his eyes. “I forgot that I told you to change.” The situation is so absurd, I don’t know what to do. “Can you help me?” I finally ask. He takes a deep breath before nodding. “I’ll close my eyes. I promise!”

A week passes by before I work up the courage to ask for my caretaker’s title. "Um, I just realized, I don't know your name," I mumble, slightly sighing at the male. He watches too closely. I feel a bit shy. "I should at least know who I'm going to repay." "Link. And you don't have to repay me."

I turn to him from the sea. "Well Link, as the former princess of the Talakaa clan, I'm going to." He clears his throat. "I think I should know your name as well. Since I'm guarding you-" I turn. "Guarding? You don't have to. I'm sure you'd much prefer traveling again. Please don't worry of me. Oh! There I go avoiding the first part,” I laugh. “I’m Viana.”

Link watches as I approach him, the water parting slowly. "As I said, as soon as I'm healed I'll be out of your hair." His hand goes to his hip. "Of course.” I nod. "Shall we head back?"

During dinner, he breaks some unsavory news to me. “You're leaving?" I ask. "Yeah. I prepared some meals. If you run out, Prima at the inn can help you." I nod with uncertainty. I'm all alone again.

"Don't look so sad. I'll be back in about a week." I shrug coolly in retaliation. "Me? Sad? As if. Take care out there, Mr. Knight." I'm surprised with a small grin.

#botw au #botw #botw link #legend of zelda #tears of the kingdom #linked universe #link au #skyward sword #zelda breath of the wild

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