HE RETURNS THE SMILE AND FOLLOWS HER LEAD, TURNING HIS ATTENTION TO HIS PORTION OF THE FOOD. The aroma alone is enough to drown out everything else, however, it's the rich flavor what ends up consuming all of his focus. THAT IS, UNTIL THE QUESTION COMES. It's a natural one, he knows — just a polite way to spark a conversation and learn more about him. Yet, he can't avoid how his muscles tense beneath his skin in response to it. Which makes him have a slightly more serious face when he looks back at her.
❝ Well, ❞ he begins, cleverly using the fact that he still had a bite left of the fish to gain some time to consider his next words. He's already decided she seems like a good person, someone who doesn't deserve deception or cold detachment. But, how much of it would be safe to tell ? He isn't sure, though perhaps there's a middle ground. One that allows him to balance both honesty and discretion in this situation ❝ I'm following the rumor that a friend I'm looking for was seen nearby ❞ a half-told truth. That way, he ensures that the possibility of HER being there wouldn't reach unwanted ears while the other would know enough to understand his intentions.
❝ Oh, and my name is Link by the way ❞ the hero adds, his voice easing back into its more casual tone as he realizes he hadn't properly introduced himself before. With everything that had happened, it had completely slipped his mind. Then, he discreetly wipes at the corner of his mouth with the back of his hand, just in case any remnants of their meal lingered there. Don't want to look stupid now, do you ? he thinks quietly before asking ❝ What about you ? ❞
THERE IS CERTAIN FIRMNESS TO THE SOFT REQUEST, : ONE SHE CAN RECOGNIZE ALL TOO WELL. perhaps that is why she does not even attempt to utter an argument, or perhaps it is because of the genuine hunger she feels within. ... SO, corners of her lips are tugged upwards ; the sun could very well reside even in that softest of smiles. gloved finger reaches for the skewer, for a moment ethereal eyes focus on it, but as she gently takes hold, her gaze lifts to meet with his own. ... ❝ if you are certain, ❞ AH, ONE MORE WAY OUT GIVEN! though the food is at her grasp, she does not take a bite. but, an answer soon comes ; one that is fair, perhaps given with the knowledge that such a factor would ease some concern. &. if that was the case, he was correct ; something that she confirms with a nod of her head. ❝ thank you. ❞ words of gratitude echo once more, &. then, the skewer is brought to her lips, &. she takes a bite. ( rest now, hero. )
SILENCE FILLS THE AIR, : IF ONE EXCLUDES THE SOFT SOUNDS THE HORSE BESIDE THE CAMP MAKES, ALONG WITH THE CRACKLING FLAMES. another skewer upon her grasp already, though she has eaten slowly. let that speak volumes on how long the silence had stretched. ... but glances has been stolen, once or twice ; not out of suspicion, more out of curiosity. she twirls the stick slowly around &. round between her fingers. ❝ so, ❞ she begins, boldly breaking the silence. ❝ what has brought you out here? ❞ FROM ONE ADVENTURER TO ANOTHER! always eager to hear the tales of others, as she is to share her own.
[ listen ] !!
HE CAN'T HELP THE SHORT LAUGH THAT ESCAPES HIS LIPS WHEN THE HORSE PLAYFULLY NUDGES HIS CHEST WITH HER VELVETY NOSE. Epona had been by his side since she was just a filly, and that had created a connection that makes them more than just rider and mount. THEY ARE COMPANIONS. Ones who know each other perfectly and help the other when needed ❝ See? They have their own language, just like us ❞ he begins with a smile, glancing at Kenneth while he pats her forehead.
❝ They pin their ears back when they are angry, they whinny when they are happy, they drop their heads when they are tired... ❞ he explains. They were simple signs that spoke volumes if you were willing to pay attention to them and that now are telling Link that, despite the joy of seeing him, what Epona is really interested in is the smell of carrots coming from him. So he takes one from his pocket and gives it to her, stepping back once she takes it so that the horse can enjoy it in peace.
❝ You just have to learn it, ❞ something easier said than done, even if it came naturally for the hero, since it was indeed a challenge that required both patience and consistency. THERE WERE NO SHORTCUTS, NO EASY PATHS. Their trust had to be earned slowly, one step at a time ❝ and they will not only listen to you but also like you and see you as a friend ❞ which, in the end, was the reward that made every bit of effort worthwhile. For they no longer stayed with you because you commanded them, but because they had decided to follow you.
well 🧍♀️ as a reminder this blog is NOT a safe space for trump supporters but it IS a safe place for women, queers, trans ppl, people of color, undocumented people, and any marginalized group.
PROMPTS FOR ORDINARY THINGS THAT FEEL INTIMATE * inspired by this post. these don't have to be romantic - you can specify romantic or not when you send them. in essence, these are simply intimate, affectionate moments to share with someone you love and care about. adjust as necessary, send 'reverse' for the reversal of the prompt
[ lean ] sender rests their head on receiver's shoulder
[ shop ] sender and receiver go to the grocery store together
[ brush ] sender brushes receiver's hair
[ tie ] sender helps receiver with their tie, either by putting it on or adjusting it
[ necklace ] sender helps receiver with the clasp of their necklace from behind
[ zip up ] sender assists receiver with zipping up a piece of clothing
[ unzip ] sender assists receiver with unzipping a piece of clothing
[ shoelaces ] sender bends down to tie receiver's shoelaces
[ swipe ] sender notices a smudge of something on receiver's face and gently wipes it off
[ braid ] sender braids receiver's hair
[ jacket ] sender takes their jacket off and hangs it on receiver's shoulders
[ puddle ] sender hurries to stop receiver from stepping into a puddle
[ drinks ] sender brings receiver a drink from a bar/their kitchen
[ feed ] sender feeds receiver's pet/s for them
[ cook ] sender and receiver cook a meal together
[ feed ] sender allows receiver to try a bite of their dish, holding their fork out for receiver to taste
[ teach ] sender, an expert at something, takes time to teach receiver how it works and how they can get better at it, too
[ readjust ] sender comes up behind receiver and readjusts their stance (maybe holding a gun, holding a golf club, aiming for something, etc.) to help them
[ makeup ] sender fixes receiver's makeup for them
[ bathroom ] sender and receiver go to a public restroom together and have a normal conversation in between the stalls
[ aloud ] sender reads aloud to receiver
[ refill ] sender refills receiver's glass without asking
[ massage ] sender notices receiver looks tense, steps up behind them, and massages their shoulders
[ listen ] sender listens to receiver explain something they're passionate about
[ silence ] sender and receiver comfortably exist in silence together, both of them working or reading or focusing on something different
[ food ] sender brings food over to receiver's house
[ hum ] sender hums along to a song receiver is singing
[ see ] sender sees something that reminds them of receiver and texts them a picture of it
[ admire ] sender stares at receiver across a room, silently admiring and appreciating them from afar
[ win ] sender lets receiver beat them in a game
[ puzzle ] sender helps receiver solve/put together a puzzle
[ carry ] after receiver falls asleep in an inconvenient place, sender carries them to a bed and tucks them in
[ kneel ] sender finds receiver sick in the bathroom ("tossing their cookies"), and kneels beside them, holding their hair back and cleaning their face
[ clean ] sender helps bathe receiver
[ wash ] sender helps receiver wash their hair
[ patch ] sender carefully patches one of receiver's wounds
A collection of one hundred tropes of varying nature. Spiritual successor to my previous An Extremely Self-Indulgent Meme. Some of these pair well together and can easily be sent in various combinations. Some are also highly suggestive in nature. Engage appropriately.
one muse steps protectively in front of the other
one muse tends to the other’s injury
one muse is not acting like themselves and the other has to snap them out of it
one muse kisses the other during an argument
one muse pins the other to a wall
one muse kisses the other on their hand or wrist
one muse kisses the other on their neck or shoulder
one muse helps the other put on a necklace or tie
our muses aren’t supposed to be together but keep meeting anyway (on purpose or by accident)
our muses have a secret relationship
one muse takes a blow meant for the the other
one muse fights away enemies attacking the the other
one muse asks the other for their favor / a token before battle or a tourney
our muses share a night together believing it might be their last
our muses are in an arranged marriage / betrothal
our muses willingly marry for political reasons
our muses get married for love
our muses get married in a spur-of-the-moment decision
one muse has taken the other captive
our muses are in love but one thinks they aren’t good enough for the other
our muses are forced to ally for a common goal
our muses are enemies or former enemies but have started to fall for each other
our muses claim to hate each other but there is palpable tension between the two
our muses are trying to manipulate each other
one muse is trying to manipulate the other
our muses have feelings for each other but have conflicting loyalties
our muses are friends but have started to fall for each other
our muses are childhood friends that have been slowly falling for each other over the years
one muse has been in love with the other for a long time but is afraid their feelings are not reciprocated
one muse is in love with the other but they are in a relationship with or engaged to another person
our muses engage in a courtly romance
one muse is a knight in service to the the other’s family
one muse seeks comfort from a loveless marriage with the other, their lover
one muse traces the other’s scars
one muse kisses the other in a moment of heightened emotion
one muse confides in the other in a vulnerable moment
our muses are in love but circumstances prevent them from being together
our muses are exes who discover lingering feelings after reuniting
one muse confesses love to another after that person is injured
one muse confesses love to another because they believe they may die soon
our muses must share a bed
one muse lifts the other’s chin to look them in the eye
one muse places a hand at the back of the other’s neck to pull them extremely close
our muses have been hooking up, no strings attached
our muses have been hooking up, but one or both has developed deeper feelings
our muses are exes that hook up against their better judgement
one muse presumes the other is dead but is shocked when they show up alive again
one muse betrays their long held loyalties in order to save the other’s life from their own allies
our muses fake a relationship but have no actual interest in each other
our muses fake a relationship but start to genuinely fall for each other
one muse is known for their hard exterior and softens only in the other’s presence
one muse is the other’s weakness, something an enemy is trying to exploit
our muses are stuck somewhere together and must occupy their time
one muse has feelings for the other but has not acted on them due to their association with another character (a sibling / relative / ex / etc. ) or an organization
one muse is scared to act on feelings for the other due to poor experiences with love in the past
one muse is oblivious to the other’s feelings for them
one muse acts oblivious to the other’s feelings for them but really they are aware
one muse has unrequited feelings for the other
our muses are co-workers engaging in a hidden romance
one muse reveals one of their darkest secrets to the other
one muse comforts the other during an emotional breakdown
one muse calms the other from an intense rage
one muse’s family forbids them from seeing the other
our muses are in love but their friends / family do not support their relationship
one muse seeks redemption for past actions and comes to the other to atone
our muses regularly exchange letters
our muses move in together
our muses adopt a pet together
our muses have a child together
our muses adopt a child together
one muse discovers they are pregnant by accident
our muses have been set up by mutual friends
our muses have been set up by a matchmaker
our muses are in love with each other but are in denial
one muse is the other’s bodyguard / protector
one muse is royalty while the other is a commoner / rogue / societal outcast
one muse kisses the other for a bet
one muse relentlessly flirts with the other
our muses kiss for the first time ever
one muse wins a date with the other at an event
our muses dance together for the first time
one muse brushes their fingers through the other’s hair
one muse drunkenly confesses something to the other
our muses drunkenly hook up and wake up next to each other
our muses are roommates
our muses are partners in crime
one muse is a supernatural creature who falls for the other, who is a mortal
our muses are supernatural creatures from opposite clans or species that are historically hostile to each other
one muses is under a spell / in the middle of a monstrous transformation but somehow recognizes the other and refrains from harming them
our muses cuddle for warmth
our muses run away together
one muse wears piece of clothing or jewelry that belongs to the other
our muses bathe together
our muses cook together
our muses cuddle in bed
one muse serenades the other
one muse holds a weapon to the other as a threat
one muse physically lifts the other up
one muse protectively wraps an arm around the other
meet cute !
Honestly one of my favourite fights is dark Link because of how it represents how there is darkness even in the kindest of people and how it's your choice which side you listen to (which is why Link always wins, because his desire to do good will always be stronger).
Also, nobody knows you better than yourself and having to defeat someone who has your same resources, knowledge and strength/speed is way more difficult than it may originally seem.
Bold what applies, italicize sometimes. Repost, don't reblog.
fights honourably / fights dirty
prefers close - quarters / prefers range
chats during / goes silent
low pain tolerance / high pain tolerance
attacks in bursts / attacks steadily
goes for the kill / aims to disarm / fights defensively / strikes first
is provoked easily / provokes their opponent / teases
gets visibly frustrated / shouts while attacking
uses strategy / focuses on the battle / experiences conflicting thoughts during battle
rushes in recklessly / tries to read their opponent before engaging
fights wildly / fights calmly / fights apathetically / fights with anger / fights with excitement
fights because they have to / fights because they want to
fights without regard to wounds / runs away when wounded / hides wounds / takes a blow to protect another
prefers a blade / prefers a gun / prefers hand to hand combat / prefers a bow / prefers a shield / prefers a personalized weapon / prefers magic or spells
their greatest weakness is physical / their greatest weakness is mental / their greatest weakness is emotional
transforms for battle / fights as they appear
relies on strength / doubts their strength / relies on speed
uses everything they have / proceeds with caution / hides their full potential
exhausts quickly / has high stamina
behaves arrogantly / brags after landing a hit / belittles their abilities
uses psychological tactics / uses brute strength
avoids civilians / strikes down civilians
damages surroundings / avoids damaging surroundings
signature fighting style / makes it up as they go
mastered skill - set / learning their skill - set
fancy footwork / sloppy footwork
messy fighter / elegant fighter
accepts defeat / refuses defeat / begs for mercy
compliments their opponent / insults their opponent
uses unnecessary movements / moves efficiently / barely moves
prefers to dodge / prefers to block
defends their blindside / has no blindside / leaves blindsides vulnerable
uses all available advantages / strictly uses one main method
plays around / holds back / fights ruthlessly / shows mercy
waits for an opponent to be ready / strikes when opponent isn’t ready
fears death / fears pain / fears killing
has ptsd / avoids fighting
has lost a fight / has won a fight
has killed / refuses to kill
wants to die standing / would succumb slowly
Tagged by: @azarathian ( thank you! )
Tagging: I have seen many have done it already so whoever hasn't but wants to!
The ceasefire agreement was reached and joy is floating among the Palestinian people
WARNING: spoilers !
❝ there doesn’t seem to be any danger at the moment. ❞ ❝ history and legend sometimes blur together. ❞ ❝ i think you’ve caused quite a stir since your arrival here… ❞ ❝ i think you do look weird. so there, chew on that. ❞ ❝ i feel like i should apologize for dragging you into this mess. ❞ ❝ there’s no need to get so worked up. ❞ ❝ you allowed your heart to falter. that is the quickest way to fall on the battlefield. ❞ ❝ i’ll fight by your side till the very end. ❞ ❝ as with any leader, it is my duty to safeguard and protect my people. ❞ ❝ you are burdened with a mission of monumental importance. ❞ ❝ it was my hubris that set us on this path. ❞ ❝ i get it, you’re young — you feel invincible. ❞ ❝ i thought you had harder bark on you than that. ❞ ❝ this little village used to be as quiet as a dusty old tomb. ❞ ❝ i don’t know who you are, but i’m sorry you have to see me like this. ❞ ❝ i feel a lot better after talking to you. ❞ ❝ you should have seen the look on your face. ❞ ❝ please, no need to look so petrified. ❞ ❝ you’re alone too, right? alone is good. ❞ ❝ you have disgusting, unwavering commitment to do ‘good’. ❞ ❝ i apologize. i keep getting lost in my thoughts. ❞ ❝ you’re finding this all a little scary, aren’t you? ❞ ❝ did you hear me singing? how embarrassing. ❞ ❝ you might want to make other plans…if you value your life. ❞ ❝ i suppose fate really wanted the two of us to run into each other again. ❞ ❝ you use your power to crush the weak…to serve evil. ❞ ❝ you will die knowing that you failed. ❞ ❝ you heard that strange voice too, right? ❞ ❝ this is a lot to learn all of a sudden, i know. ❞ ❝ did you know if you put your ear to a well, you can hear the wailing of the dead? ❞ ❝ i see the shadow of death upon your face. ❞ ❝ it seems skill and confidence is in short supply. ❞ ❝ that pride will be your downfall. ❞ ❝ i’ve gotta say. your stories are always so wild. ❞ ❝ did i manage to keep a smile on my face? ❞ ❝ you take for granted the godlike power you have in your hands. ❞ ❝ nevertheless, i can’t shake this strange tightness in my chest. ❞ ❝ why do i get the feeling we’re being watched? ❞ ❝ sorry you had to listen to me go on and on like that. ❞ ❝ anyway, i’m sorry for teasing you. ❞ ❝ uh…what’s with the face? ❞ ❝ what was it you wanted to discuss with me in private? ❞ ❝ were you looking for me? i’m honored! ❞ ❝ one cannot accomplish great feats without allies at one’s side. ❞ ❝ it’s important to help each other in times of need. ❞ ❝ i hate the way rain feels, but i don’t mind how it sounds. reminds me of waves crashing on the beach. ❞ ❝ you look distracted. what’s wrong? ❞ ❝ things with ‘legendary’ in the title are usually just stories. ❞ ❝ do you really think i hadn’t realized your deceit? ❞ ❝ what are you doing in a place like this? ❞ ❝ i never thought i’d see such a marvel with my very own eyes. ❞ ❝ thank goodness. if something had happened to you…i… ❞ ❝ how did you find this place? what cruel ploy are you plotting? ❞ ❝ it seems that the world is still in a wretched state. ❞ ❝ enough is enough! you are not acting like yourself! ❞ ❝ i can see right through you, whether you want me to or not. you are yielding to the fear of losing someone you love again. ❞ ❝ i can see it in your face. i don’t hold that special place in your heart. ❞ ❝ light and dark - one cannot exist without the other. ❞ ❝ do not get lost in the past. you must keep moving ever onward. ❞ ❝ it is best when those who care for each other are open and honest, even when it is difficult. ❞ ❝ push yourself too hard and you become your own worst enemy. ❞ ❝ look at all those scars…you must have fought a lot in your life. ❞ ❝ i am hesitant to admit it, but our success was thanks to your support. ❞ ❝ you look very pleased with yourself. ❞ ❝ i was giving in to my fear of once more losing someone i love. ❞ ❝ hold still, and don’t fret. i’ll take care of everything. this won’t hurt a bit. ❞ ❝ did you think i’d deceived you? perish the thought. ❞ ❝ i’m always here. should you ever have need of me, you need only ask. ❞ ❝ it’s amusing, isn’t it? our little back-and-forths. ❞ ❝ i just don’t want anyone to drop dead right in front of me. that’ll give me some nasty dreams. ❞ ❝ there it is. that inexplicable smirk upon your face. ❞ ❝ what were you praying for? long life? wealth? ❞ ❝ you get even cuter when you’re blushing. ❞ ❝ it is all right. i swear it. i am not going anywhere. ❞ ❝ i never thought…never dared dream…that i’d live to see the day we could all laugh together again like this. ❞ ❝ i’ve seen enough faces in this job that i can tell from looking at one if someone’s lying to me. ❞ ❝ you’ll come visit me again, right? ❞ ❝ i hope that ours will be a long and profitable relationship. ❞ ❝ this must be what the end of the world looks like. ❞ ❝ there’s nothing wrong with asking if you can help, you know. ❞ ❝ i knew there was a bright smile in there somewhere. ❞ ❝ let’s not pretend it won’t look absolutely dashing on you. ❞ ❝ no matter. you will not live to see another sunrise. ❞ ❝ you cannot hope to escape your fate. ❞ ❝ i’m sorry. i know i’m always throwing you into dangerous situations. ❞ ❝ hear my name and tremble in fear. ❞ ❝ it seems you have met with great danger once more. ❞ ❝ i actually…secretly followed you. ❞ ❝ there’s no shortage of strange happenings these days. ❞ ❝ anyone tell you it’s rude to stare? ❞ ❝ sitting here feeling sorry for myself won’t solve anything. ❞ ❝ at my age…well, very little surprises me. ❞ ❝ there are more mysteries waiting for us down here, i know it. ❞ ❝ i’m only telling you this because you seem like a trustworthy sort. ❞ ❝ we are bound by fate, you and i. ❞ ❝ i’d have preferred to stay with you a while longer. ❞ ❝ you will have to do something about that fear eventually. ❞ ❝ now i live for vengeance. ❞ ❝ so you’re our saviour, eh? i thought you’d be tougher looking. ❞ ❝ sorry about that. the sadness just gets to me sometimes. ❞ ❝ you were involved, weren’t you? ❞ ❝ i’m sorry, i’m just surprised. i mean, you don’t seem all that strong. ❞ ❝ did i…see what i thought i saw? ❞ ❝ just forget it. it’s not important. ❞ ❝ we cannot afford to stand still at a time such as this. it is imperative that we act. ❞ ❝ disappointed that i wasn’t shocked and aghast at the very sight of you? ❞ ❝ you must be pretty strong beneath the surface. ❞ ❝ what happened? is this your doing? ❞ ❝ i can see right through you, whether you want me to or not. ❞ ❝ just watching you move, i can tell you’re no ordinary person. ❞ ❝ whatever is troubling you? why are you hesitating so? ❞ ❝ good…evil…that’s the futile perspective of narrow-minded beings. ❞ ❝ are you here because you’ve heard about me? ❞ ❝ one difficulty has been overcome, and yet another has appeared in its wake. ❞ ❝ once i rest up, i’ll be hitting the road again. i’ve stayed here too long as it is. ❞ ❝ we have to train. we have to get stronger. we have to get ready for what’s next. ❞ ❝ is everyone all right? nobody’s injured? ❞ ❝ i’m the one who made such a mess of things, after all. ❞ ❝ it is a mighty opponent, certainly, but we must not falter. ❞ ❝ what’s with that look? you don’t think i can do it? ❞ ❝ what’s the matter? you can tell me, weirdly handsome dude. ❞ ❝ why is everybody so quick to believe the silliest things? ❞ ❝ i dearly wish that i could believe what you are saying. however, at present…i simply cannot do that. ❞ ❝ wow, listen to me. with every breath, i spew out brilliance. ❞ ❝ for a long time, i have been concerned that you are holding yourself back. ❞ ❝ i feel like you weren’t getting what i was going for there. way to kill the mood. ❞ ❝ can’t talk my way out of this one… ❞ ❝ this is normally where i’d give you a chance to respond, but i’d like to talk about me instead. ❞ ❝ never forget that we are all standing beneath the very same sun. the only distance that matters is the distance between our hearts. ❞ ❝ i lost my head a little there. i’m not too proud of the way i behaved. ❞ ❝ i’m sure an answer will come to you. wisdom takes time. ❞ ❝ i must truly be getting on in years to have allowed a mere monster to catch me off guard. ❞ ❝ you really don’t know your place, do you? ❞ ❝ do you really think we hadn’t realised your deceit? ❞ ❝ you heart is like a chicken’s egg — easily given but easy to break. ❞ ❝ your wounds were severe…i am relieved to see you escape death. ❞ ❝ i’m told that your skill in swordplay is unmatched. ❞ ❝ what, you’ve never heard of me? ❞ ❝ where were you? you disappeared on me so suddenly. i was worried sick. ❞ ❝ oh my. i’m surprised to hear you say such a thing. ❞ ❝ i wonder how many times we’ve met in our past lives. ❞ ❝ so what if you don’t say what you really think. i won’t hold that against you. ❞ ❝ though our time together has been brief, i am so happy that we finally met. ❞ ❝ what’re you thinking, strolling into this war zone? ❞ ❝ you’ll keep your trap shut if you know what’s good for you. ❞ ❝ i sense a fierce battle ahead, the likes of which we have never before faced. ❞ ❝ i can feel the moonlight pouring down, cleansing my spirit. ❞ ❝ you’re not needed round here any more. ❞ ❝ that mystery just leads us straight into another. ❞ ❝ it is very difficult to rest peacefully when things like this happen. ❞ ❝ sometimes i’m so smart, i scare myself a little. ❞ ❝ ever try getting info out of a boulder? well, that boulder’s ME. ❞ ❝ i prefer to keep work and my personal time separate. ❞ ❝ sure, you look like a strong breeze could blow you over, but you are solid as stone. ❞ ❝ that pride will be your downfall. ❞ ❝ i’ve been abandoned by love…by luck…by happiness. ❞ ❝ at last…i have been waiting for you to arrive. ❞ ❝ i am stunned. i am in complete and utter awe with you. ❞ ❝ despite all we have endured, my feelings for you have never altered. they never shall. ❞ ❝ am i some sort of villain? or a force for good? ❞ ❝ i’m just fated to be unhappy. steer clear or you’ll catch my misfortune. ❞ ❝ you’re your own worst enemy sometimes. ❞ ❝ i will crush any opposition. i will rule. ❞ ❝ that’s an old dangerous road absolutely crawling with monsters. ❞ ❝ now that you’ve seen it, i can’t let you live. ❞ ❝ you look like a gentle soul who wouldn’t hurt anything. ❞ ❝ my body…my mind…everything. i’ll sacrifice it all to destroy you. ❞ ❝ i had almost forgotten the thrill of battle. that feeling as blood surges in my veins… ❞ ❝ i bet evil always scatters when you show up. ❞ ❝ it’s important to remember that luck and love aren’t things that run out. sometimes they just take the long way to get to you. ❞ ❝ i’m gonna make my ancestors proud today. ❞ ❝ this world should be shrouded in darkness, not bathed in insufferable light. ❞ ❝ it would have been more…satisfying to overcome a worthy foe. ❞ ❝ a mere mortal will not stand in my way. ❞ ❝ you’d walk away…from someone in need? ❞ ❝ you have proven yourself, and you no longer need me. ❞ ❝ i have some heartbreaking news to share. this will be tough to bear, but i ask that you stay strong. ❞ ❝ you might think of this as ‘hush money,’ and…yes. that’s what it is.. ❞ ❝ now, let’s both pretend like this never happened. ❞ ❝ you might think i’m a hopeless coward…and you wouldn’t be entirely wrong. ❞
I mentioned before that I'm taking from the Asoiaf books the fact that you can't spend too much time in an animal's body and that, if you do, it will change yourself because you eventually lose your human conscience until you become the animal itself for the Hero of Twilight.
So, even if I will eventually make a longer post about this, know that in that verse Link will have sharper senses, teeth more similar to a wolf's, and a more impulsive side. Also, he'll be way more into hunting and hanging out in the forest than he normally is.
“As you wish” was all he ever said to her. That day, she was amazed to discover that when he was saying “as you wish”, what he meant was “I love you”.
THE PRINCESS BRIDE — 1987, dir. Rob Reiner
+ BONUS:
🎁
You got People you know by Selena Gomez !
AND WHAT HURTS THE MOST IS PEOPLE CAN GO FROM PEOPLE YOU KNOW TO PEOPLE YOU DON'T…He may have regained a few of his memories. Something that should bring him joy, but instead, it comes with a bitter ache ❝ They were my friends, ❞ he murmurs, the companions meant to stand by his side, fighting together to vanquish the Calamity once and for all. But that wasn't how it ended, was it ? They are dead, and that is a weight that makes him falter. His next words catch in his throat.
His gaze falls, lingering on the ground ❝ and the only thing I have of them are a few scattered moments ❞ Their laughter, their faces, the sound of their voices — ALL OF IT FEELS SO DISTANT. And it is a cruel twist, isn't it ? To remember them again, as if meeting them for the first time, only for those memories to become a painful reminder of what had been ripped away and could never return. Yet the loss doesn't stop with them. It spreads further to the other soldiers of the royal guard in which he had served and every other person who had slipped entirely from his mind, lost to the depths of his forgotten past.
Something something...Link actually being good at drawing in other to keep a record of the monsters, animals and weapons he sees/uses during his adventures.
Mutuals may reblog. Personals do not interact!
spotify wrapped has arrived. send me a number from 1-100 for a starter based on that song, or a lyric from it, or send a 🎁 for me to shuffle.
THE ONLY RESPONSE SHE GETS FROM HIM IS A SOFT SHAKE OF HIS HEAD, WHICH CAN ALSO BE SEEN AS A WORDLESS REFUSAL TO ACCEPT HER CONCERN. He doesn't see why it should be a problem, and proof of that is how, without a second thought, he leans forward to reach for one of the skewers, carefully plucking it from its place over the flames. Now that it's closer, he realizes how mouthwatering it looks even if it's far from the finest delicacy. He pauses for only a heartbeat, then turns toward her, extending the skewer before his stomach has the chance to make a sound ❝ Here, ❞ he says, the words soft but firm, not leaving room for any argument.
❝ it's fine, really ❞ his tone gentler now, reassuring. If he had offered her his food it was because he was willing to share — SIMPLE AS THAT. There are no expectations of getting anything in return, no hidden motives, just the wish to show the same generosity others had shown him when he had found himself in her shoes. Yet, Link can sense there's something more to her concern, a hesitation that goes beyond the food itself ❝ You'll have two and I'll take the other two ❞ he adds, his gaze steady, not once breaking. By dividing it equally, he hopes to ease her worries. To show her there's no reason to feel guilty for accepting or as though she is taking too much.
WITH PERMISSION, : SHE TOO STEPS CLOSER TO THE WARMTH OF THE FLAMES, their flickering light reflecting from the black &. golden armor upon her figure. ( observant had the molten golds been ; yet weapon was not reached for. neither did she summon her own in return. ) ... ❝ thank you, ❞ gratitude voiced by angelic tune, woven with warmth &. accompanied by a nod of her head. so, THE WARRIOR OF LIGHT takes seat upon the ground, this moment of rest welcomed. ethereal warrior she may be, but she too could tire. she simply forges through it. her skin unscathed, armor wields no marks upon it ; but that is only a testament to her skills &. strength, not of a fact that trouble was not encountered. ( for you always seem to find it, do you not, hero? )
ANOTHER LOOK TAKEN AROUND, : THE SPOT HE HAD CHOSEN TO CAMP UPON SECURE. but his voice broke through the short - lived silence, &. it prompted glowing hues to focus upon him ... from there, to the flames. this is where sarastus paused herself, before gaze lifts once more, ❝ have you eaten anything yourself? ❞ comes a query, though spoken with a neutrality, concern is embedded into it.
“Smile! Everyone is waiting for you….“
Sketch Comic for hyruleheart‘s Zelink Week!! Day 2 - Smile
❝ i’ve got time. i’ve got lots of time. ❞
MORNING LIGHT SPILLS ACROSS THE VAST PLAINS OF HYRULE AS THE SUN CRESTS THE HORIZON, BATHING THE WORLD IN SOFT GOLD. The landscape stretches out in quiet solitude, a peaceful expanse of rolling hills and gentle meadows, untouched by the chaos of the past. In the distance, the faint call of birds echoes, their melodies carried by the soft breeze. All the while, beside Link, a stream flows steadily over smooth, polished stones, its surface shimmering in the early light, tracing ripples that mirrored the quiet stirrings of a waking world.
❝ I'm almost ready ❞ he murmurs, aware of the subtle impatience laced in the other's teasing tone. Still shaking off the last traces of sleep, the knight glances down at his reflection in the clear water to smooth out his tunic, his hands moving over the fabric with a relaxed, almost automatic effort. HE RUNS HIS HANDS THROUGH HIS HAIR, TYING IT BACK INTO A LOOSE PONYTAIL, not quite as neat as usual but functional enough. Then, with a final tug at his belt and an adjustment to his sword, he glances back up, the lingering drowsiness almost gone as he walks over to where he was waiting for him.
Once he reaches him, Link finally asks the question that had been lingering in his mind ever since Kenneth had started to wake him ❝ Why the hurry today ? ❞ His voice is calm, curious, as he tilts his head slightly, watching for a response ❝ Did anything happen while I was asleep ? ❞ he adds, his brow lifting just a little, his tone shifting with a hint of concern. If that was the case, what kind of hero would he be ? It is not a moment where he could afford to let his guard down. Not after everything that had happened.
I don’t know why, but I suddenly feel like diving deeper into Link’s connections with my mutual’s muses. I already mostly follow one portrayal, but I want to make things more specific and personal. Something that goes beyond just the basics of each other’s universes.
Also, I’m always up for talking about becoming mains, but only if we’ve interacted a bit first (both ooc and ic) to make sure we’re both comfortable.
So, if you are interested, like this post and I'll message you to basically talk about our muses and see where it goes, or just feel free to do it yourselves.
nonverbal meme prompts ↪ they seem few & far between, so i tried to come up with as many scenarios as i could think of where dialogue wasn’t a necessary starting point. some are more uh specific than others / drabble-y, but they’re all dialogue-free ( tho ofc this does not necessarily extend to the response itself ). to reverse who sends what, send ‘ [ prompt ]+ ’ ! alter any as you see fit, & lemme know if anything’s unclear ♡
[ pull ] sender pulls receiver closer to them
[ touch ] sender places their hand affectionately on receiver
[ guide ] sender helps receiver through a difficult video game
[ lean ] sender leans on receiver
[ pierce ] sender helps receiver with a new piercing ( doing, aftercare, etc )
[ sit ] sender sits in receiver’s lap
[ spar ] sender pins receiver down in a practice fight
[ cook ] sender makes food for receiver
[ slide ] sender pushes an item across the table to receiver
[ kiss ] sender kisses ( lips, cheek, forehead, hand, etc )
[ lead ] sender leads receiver someplace
[ wound ] sender injures muse in a fight ( practice or real )
[ snap ] sender takes a photo of receiver ( candid or posed )
[ drape ] sender drapes their arm around receiver’s shoulders
[ bullet ] sender takes a bullet for receiver ( literal or figurative )
[ nap ] sender falls asleep against receiver
[ teeth ] sender bears teeth at receiver
[ trace ] sender traces one of receiver’s scars
[ cocktail ] sender makes / gives receiver a cocktail
[ comfort ] sender comforts receiver when they are upset / crying
[ bouquet ] sender surprises receiver with a bouquet
[ massage ] sender gives receiver a massage ( planned, spontaneous, full body, shoulder, etc )
[ mentor ] sender takes muse under their wing
[ tattoo ] sender helps receiver with a new tattoo ( doing, aftercare, etc )
[ dare ] receiver acts out a dare from sender
[ hug ] sender pulls receiver into a hug
[ phone ] receiver sees sender smiling at something on their phone
[ popcorn ] sender makes popcorn for a movie night
[ wake ] sender tries to wake receiver
[ groom ] sender tries to make receiver look more presentable
[ flower ] sender places a flower behind receiver’s ear
[ sad ] sender looks at receiver sorrowfully
[ playlist ] sender curates a playlist
[ fashion show ] sender tries to help receiver choose an outfit
[ shield ] sender steps between receiver and danger
[ bandage ] sender helps bandage up receiver’s wounds
[ duel ] muses get into a fight
[ fear ] sender finds receiver having a nightmare
[ hold ] sender holds receiver’s hand
[ bruise ] sender finds receiver with a bruise / tries to help receiver cover up a bruise
[ brush ] sender brushes / styles / dyes receiver’s hair
[ portrait ] receiver paints a portrait of receiver
[ assist ] sender helps the receiver with a task they’re struggling in
[ wow ] sender does something to really amaze receiver
[ glare ] sender is still hurt after an argument
[ roast ] muses roast marshmallows together / make s’mores
[ shoot ] muses attend a game of paintball
[ diary ] receiver writes a journal entry about sender ( maybe they find it ? )
[ dance ] sender whisks receiver onto to ‘ dance floor ’ ( can be actual or pretend )
[ rest ] sender rests their chin on receiver’s head / shoulder
[ manicure ] sender paints receiver’s nails
[ tuck ] sender tucks in receiver’s shirt, hair behind ear, etc
[ chin ] sender lifts receiver’s chin up
[ lap ] sender puts their feet in receiver’s lap
[ write ] receiver writes sender a note
[ play ] muses play a board game / card game together
[ glance ] receiver catches sender looking at them
[ ill ] sender takes care of receiver when they are unwell
[ hearth ] sender lights a fire
[ tap ] sender taps receiver on the shoulder
[ bake ] muses bake together
[ read ] sender reads to receiver
[ study ] sender tries to help receiver study
[ push ] sender pushes receiver in anger
[ skill ] receiver tries to assist sender in learning a new skill
[ coated ] receiver finds sender covered in blood
[ gesture ] sender motions for receiver to follow them
[ downpour ] receiver finds sender out in the rain
Gillian Flynn, Gone Girl // Fyodor Dostoevsky, The Gentle Spirit // Lyric Hunter, "A Garden" // Margaret Atwood, Power Politics: Poems // @artsy_tay_ on Instagram // William Shakespeare, The Taming of the Shrew // Sappho, "If not, Winter" (trans. Anne Carson)
Q : HOW DO YOU NEED TO BE TOUCHED?
A : FERVENTLY.
you crave a hug that cracks your ribs... the feeling of your wandering soul being crushed back into the bones that can't seem to hold it. you need a hand gripping yours so tightly you almost fear it may leave a bruise, a reminder that you are here. and that you are not alone.
Tagged by: @daylighter ( thank you! )
Tagging: @cordoliae ( muse of your choice ) , @vulpesse , @kaerinio , @moonsingir , @adamanteine , and anyone who wants to !
❝ i am just a lost traveler, seeking rest for the night. ❞
THE CAMPFIRE CRACKLED SOFTLY IN THE HEART OF THE NIGHT, ITS GOLDEN LIGHT CASTING DANCING SHADOWS ACROSS THE SURROUNDING TREES. Link sat cross-legged on the cool grass, the flames reflecting in his eyes as Epona stood nearby, her ears flicking occasionally at the distant sounds of the wild. The scent of woodsmoke mingled with the crisp night air, and the world seemed quiet, save for the occasional rustle of leaves. Suddenly, a faint noise ( too deliberate to be the wind ) broke the stillness. Link’s sharp instincts immediately took hold and he rose smoothly to his feet.
That's how the stranger would find him, standing with calm yet watchful eyes studying her for a few seconds before finally breaking the silence ❝ You are free to stay if you want ❞ the words were as straightforward as they were simple, spoken without hesitation or pretense. It was almost surprising...his lack of questions, his absence of suspicion. But perhaps it wasn't so strange; anyone with ill intent would likely have been far less obvious in their approach. And if you looked closely, his sword, though seemingly out of reach, was positioned perfectly for a quick draw, even if he had stepped slightly closer.
It didn't take long for the hero to return to his spot by the campfire, settling back onto the grass with the same unhurried ease as before ❝ though I'm afraid I don't have much to offer ❞ he said, pausing for a moment before adding ❝ just some food, if you are hungry ❞ while gesturing toward the freshly caught fish cooking over the flames. Their edges crisping in the warmth. It was a humble gesture, but genuine, and he hoped it would be enough. The only other thing he had were a few carrots which were meant for Epona and, therefore, NOT SOMETHING HE WOULD SHARE.
❝ look, see a world that holds more wonders than any since the earth was born. ❞ ❝ let me tell you instead a new tale. ❞ ❝ so stay a while. rest. and make yourself content. ❞ ❝ and if death awaits me? ❞ ❝ surely your knights have spilled enough blood in your name to bind them closer to you than i. ❞ ❝ good to have one’s family by one’s side. ❞ ❝ i recognize but i do not know you. ❞ ❝ what is this? a trick? ❞ ❝ and this is what you want most in life? ❞ ❝ green is the color of earth, of living things, of life. ❞ ❝ the world is fit for all manner of mysteries. ❞ ❝ you are not very good with questions. ❞ ❝ surely a knight knows something of love. ❞ ❝ i never knew so many books even existed. ❞ ❝ what if i wanted to sit by your side and take your hand and have your ear? ❞ ❝ do you still fancy me? do i make you happy? ❞ ❝ green is what is left when ardor fades, when passion dies, when we die, too. ❞ ❝ when you return, you will come with your head held high. ❞ ❝ this is how silly men perish. ❞ ❝ you rest your bones, my brave little knight. ❞ ❝ where you off to? a knightly quest? ❞ ❝ all dead. no one to bury them. ❞ ❝ by nightfall, you will be at the doorway of your destiny. ❞ ❝ i promise, you will not come to harm. ❞ ❝ why greatness? why is goodness not enough? ❞ ❝ are you really going to go? ❞ ❝ you’ll do this one thing, you return home a changed man, an honorable man? just like that? ❞ ❝ keep your five fingers strong, your five senses sharp. ❞ ❝ you have mud on your face. ❞ ❝ is it wrong to want greatness for you? ❞ ❝ i’ve been waiting for you. did you not hear me calling? ❞ ❝ what do you expect me to do? ❞ ❝ i am the luckiest here today because i am amongst you. ❞ ❝ do not take your place amongst legends idly. ❞ ❝ though my will longs to leap across this table and meet you, my body will not follow. ❞ ❝ you tell me a tale of yourself, so that i might know you. ❞ ❝ i’ve got no guts for merriment this year. ❞ ❝ i need…i need a sword. ❞ ❝ i dare say every table in this land has heard of you and sung your song. ❞ ❝ i know more than just your name. ❞ ❝ well, come on in if you want. ❞ ❝ perhaps you think that i am something i’m not. ❞ ❝ why would you ask me that? why would you ever ask me that? ❞ ❝ are you real, or are you a spirit? ❞ ❝ you are at the end of your quest. a little sooner than you expected, perhaps. but such is the case for us all. ❞ ❝ i am just a lost traveler, seeking rest for the night. ❞ ❝ did my father send for you? ❞ ❝ are you certain there is nothing you wish to give me? ❞ ❝ what will you say if i asked you to make me your lady? ❞ ❝ i do not know of any man who has not marched up to greet death before his time. ❞ ❝ were you afraid? ❞ ❝ you have had a year to find courage. ❞ ❝ come, come home. come home with me. ❞ ❝ i never asked for your company anyway! ❞ ❝ what witchcraft is this? ❞ ❝ go that way and your doom is at hand. ❞ ❝ unhand me and let us go our ways. ❞ ❝ fear not. you’ve only slept through the night. ❞ ❝ which direction are you headed? ❞ ❝ i will eat and give thanks and then take my leave. ❞ ❝ how do you know my name? ❞ ❝ you will find no mercy. no happy end. ❞ ❝ i don’t want your games, or your gifts, or your kindness. ❞ ❝ there’s an enchantment sewn into its threads. wear it and you will never be struck down. ❞ ❝ do you believe in magic, in witchcraft? ❞ ❝ do not touch me. ❞ ❝ i’ve lost something. will you help me find it? ❞ ❝ i’m very sorry. i…i did not see you. ❞ ❝ i fear i am not meant for greatness. ❞ ❝ stand up and face me! ❞ ❝ make a move or i shall make mine. ❞ ❝ let’s just stay here. come. let’s just stay here. ❞ ❝ i’ve got time. i’ve got lots of time. ❞ ❝ out my window this morning i looked, and i saw a land shaped by your hands. ❞ ❝ i look out upon my friends here today and i see songs no muse could ever sing or dream of. ❞ ❝ no. i’m not ready yet. ❞ ❝ i’ll finish this quest for you. ❞
❝ courage need not be remembered, for it is never forgotten. ❞ ❝ you’ve met with a terrible fate, haven’t you? ❞ ❝ am i so beautiful that you’ve got no words left? ❞ ❝ forgive me. i’m a coward at heart. ❞ ❝ you and i aren’t as different as we thought. ❞ ❝ this time, we fight together. ❞ ❝ if all else fails, use fire. ❞ ❝ the history of light and shadow will be written in blood. ❞ ❝ what makes you happy… does it make others happy, too? ❞ ❝ it’s a secret to everybody. ❞ ❝ do you ever feel a strange sadness as dusk falls? ❞ ❝ tell them the war has ended. ❞ ❝ many years ago, i felt so free… ❞ ❝ we all deserve a happy ending, don’t we? ❞ ❝ they were all good people…my people. ❞ ❝ be careful about going around judging people by their appearance. ❞ ❝ may the winds of fortune be at your back. ❞ ❝ you have great eyes. they’re proud and wild…like a feral beast. ❞ ❝ no matter what, a fake is a fake, and no matter how much you try to dress it up, the real thing always wins . ❞ ❝ guess what? you got it for free. are you proud of yourself? ❞ ❝ your true face… what kind of face is it? i wonder… the face under the mask… is that your true face? ❞ ❝ you’re the bad guy. and when you’re bad, you just run. ❞ ❝ you’ll come with me, won’t you? ❞ ❝ this is your fate. don’t feel discouraged, even in the darkest of times. ❞ ❝ may we meet again in another life. ❞ ❝ you don’t have to look so sad. ❞ ❝ everything. everything i’ve done up until now…it was all for nothing.. ❞ ❝ i wonder, if you do the right thing, does it really make everyone happy? ❞ ❝ whenever there is a meeting, a parting is sure to follow. ❞ ❝ those who do not know the danger of wielding power will, before long, be ruled by it. ❞ ❝ your friends… what kind of people are they? do these people think of you as a friend? ❞ ❝ the flow of time is always cruel. ❞ ❝ my bloodline endures the ravages of all the years. it survives. ❞ ❝ the sight of your appalling hair makes my gorge rise. ❞ ❝ we are fine here. we will greet the morning together. ❞ ❝ i really am just a failure. ❞ ❝ it’s dangerous to go alone. take me. ❞ ❝ conquer yourself. ❞ ❝ even though it was only a short time, i feel like i’ve known you forever. ❞ ❝ it’s time for me to make up for my mistakes. ❞ ❝ people are disgusting. my own father and mother are disgusting. you must be disgusting too. ❞ ❝ there are some things in life you can’t change no matter how hard you try. ❞ ❝ thought i chose the thief’s life, but it really chose me. ❞ ❝ i’m not doing anything suspicious. really! ❞ ❝ forgive your friend. ❞ ❝ a man is an animal, too. ❞ ❝ oceans…oceans…oceans as far as the eye can see. ❞ ❝ heroes fade eventually but legends never die. ❞ ❝ please…heal my sorrows. ❞ ❝ i grant my eternal love to you. ❞ ❝ he who wields such power would make a suitable king for this world, don’t you think? ❞ ❝ i always believed you would come…because i know you. ❞ ❝ it is destiny that you and i can’t live in the same world. ❞ ❝ shadow and light are two sides of the same coin. one cannot exist without the other. ❞ ❝ your slumber these past moons must have been restless and full of nightmares. ❞ ❝ your gods have destroyed you. ❞ ❝ your words are kind and your heart is true. ❞ ❝ i believe this is what you call…happiness. ❞ ❝ the mortal blow puts your life on the line. ❞ ❝ your ears will bleed from the sounds of your own screams. ❞ ❝ i consider the time spent with you some of the most special memories i have. ❞ ❝ a sword wields no strength unless the hand that holds it has courage. ❞ ❝ you fight like no man or demon i have ever known. ❞ ❝ the thousand years of raindrops are my tears. ❞ ❝ time passes, people move…like a river’s flow, it never ends. ❞ ❝ it seems shadow has been moved by light. ❞ ❝ the thunder that strikes the earth is my anger. ❞ ❝ to tell you the truth, I’m feeling a bit frustrated, and right now I just need someone to vent to. ❞ ❝ isn’t it petty? little battles like this? ❞ ❝ wait! do not be so hasty. ❞ ❝ a thing that does not change with time is a memory of younger days. ❞ ❝ don’t ever forget me. if you do, i’ll never forgive you. ❞ ❝ if it is something that can be stopped, then just try to stop it. ❞ ❝ my hate never perishes. it is born anew in a cycle with no end . ❞ ❝ we’ll be friends forever, won’t we? ❞ ❝ do you have any idea how that made me feel inside? Furious. Outraged. ❞ ❝ i’ve taken all that you had to give… though I did not want it . ❞ ❝ i follow the strongest side. that is all i have ever known. ❞ ❝ he wasn’t talking about strength, like lifting stuff. he was talking about being brave. ❞ ❝ believe in your strengths. ❞
I have seen some people talk about their muse's height on the dash and this is a good opportunity as any to remind you guys Link is 5'2
Just posting this so you guys know Link has one of the brightest smiles. Shame he mostly has a poker face and it's very difficult to see it.
HE LISTENS INTENTLY, THE WEIGHT OF THEIR WORDS SINKING IN AS DEEPLY AS THE EXHAUSTION IN HIS BONES. He walks quietly behind the sheikah, the distant sounds of the battle still ringing in his ears, like echoes from another life. Yet, there was a new softness in his eyes, a mixture of weariness and relief that he does not think he has felt until that moment. For the first time since he had picked it up, THE SWORD FELT LIGHTER, as though the immense burden of duty it carried ( and which had driven him forward for so long ) finally began to ease. He could feel it in the way his shoulders began to relax, in how his breath came slightly easier and his mind began to quiet. He had served his purpose. Every battle had been fought, every trial overcome. The realization washed over him like a warm blanket, comforting and profound: he had done enough.
He sits down slowly on the grass, allowing the coolness to embrace his weary limbs if only for a second. The soothing touch offering a rare moment of comfort as, with a subtle nod, he acknowledges both the wisdom and the carefulness in what they say ❝ that is enough for me, ❞ he murmurs, his voice low but full, carrying a sense of completion. He does not need many words, for he has never been one for them himself. His silence spoke volumes, a language of its own that conveys more than any speech ever could. And when it would not suffice, he let his actions show his message and intentions, as proven by the scars, both seen and unseen, that he bears ❝ knowing everyone will be fine is all I need ❞ he adds, and there was the true essence of his journey. HE DID NOT FIGHT FOR THE GLORY, NOR FOR THE PRAISE OR ADMIRATION OF OTHERS. He fought simply to ensure that their land and those he cared for would have a chance to heal and grow.
Though perhaps that was why his mind could not help but move foward, contemplating the next step he had to take in this new chapter of his life ❝ but...what now ? ❞ he wonders aloud, the question lingering in the air as he leans forward, elbows resting on his knees and fingers interlaced, and stares at them ❝ what will be needed of me now ? ❞ The princess' role was as clear as it was crucial. She would be the beacon of hope guiding people in the new era that was about to begin. The one to restore their faith after all the suffering they have faced. BUT WHAT OF HIM ? He longed to help, to stand by her side and contribute to the rebuilding of Hyrule. Yet, WHAT USE DOES A WEAPON HAVE IN A TIME OF PEACE ? He had to find out before seeing her again. He could not face her with doubts, if only to avoid making her carry all the weight of their future alone.
the dust cloud settling is a momentary event. nothing sticks around in this land but the evergreen fact that everything returns some day, maybe later rather than sooner, but return it will. they have seen the rise and fall of this kingdom several times over, a land growing back from its own ashes, in the vice of ganon's darkness only until the hero and the princess would rise to defeat it once again. this is how the story has been made, even if they were the one to write it down they had no hand in crafting it, and there is nothing to it besides the rare sense of contentment that is meddling within their usually calm veins to remind them that a period of peace is about to descend once more. all for the hero and his valiant effort, this sword that never rests when darkness roars, and his undeniable sacrifice to go the entire distance even when he knows the least about the mechanism at play, even when he rises up with no prior awareness, when all he knows is what is happening at hand. his hand has led them, all of them, with only the princess being the one to lead him - a light on this bravery, on the rarity of his person.
hyrule never wants to take the easier route, it always needs a trial by blood. he looks the part - too young for his wounds and for this torch he is carrying but all the more vivid in his victory, tragedy of his years having been stolen only meeting a small remedy in this but there is now an entire life ahead of him that is not cast in the burning hatred that has infected this land from deep within the demon's king greed. " anything you have experienced is over now, yes, " they tell him to his exhausted face, their own well-hidden with half of it in cloth and mostly their gaze expressing their own keen awareness of what happened to him, of what he has done for all of them. they are the last to coddle him, always the first to push instead, but they are keeping away from it now as they can see how much the past hours have taken a toll on his especially.
they are never one to heap sugar-coated kindness onto anyone, least of all him, so they are quick to continue as they walk with him away from the battlefield he left behind ( the princess couldn't be far away ) and into a quieter part of the fields in front of the castle, where walls may have fallen and the grass has been razed not too many metres from here but there is a patch of surviving green that would give link the opportunity to sit or lie down, put his sword away if he wished or needed to, and to just listen if he'd really want to indulge them into philosophical visions about this land that means so much to them. he'd probably fall asleep hearing them talk, but he might see this as an advantage to engaging them. " i can't tell you how long it will last. you have done well, everything that was needed of you is what you did. know that it may take more than a lifetime before this darkness returns. "
“ i had a dream about you. ”
“ i’ve never cared about anyone the way i care about you. ”
“ i know it’s not fair to ask you to wait for me, but i can’t bear the thought of seeing you with someone else. ”
“ i’m not really good at this sort of thing. i never really had much luck with relationships before but i wanna make it work. i want us to work. ”
“ i love you. you don’t have to say anything, i just thought you should know. ”
“ i do care about you i’m just. i’m not good at talking about it. ”
“ i didn’t like seeing you with them. ”
“ you’re my person. you’ll always be the one i go to. ”
“ i could have lost you today! do you know what that would have done to me? ”
“ do you even know what you do to me? ”
“ i can’t stop thinking about you. ”
“ you’re the most amazing person i’ve ever met. ”
“ i don’t deserve you, but i want you anyway. ”
“ you’re safe with me, you know that right? ”
“ please just tell me how you feel. ”
“ just say the words. tell me you want me and i’m yours. ”
“ you’re always there. i didn’t used to see it before, but i do now. every time i’ve ever needed someone, you were there. ”
“ you had a dream about me? ”
“ i guess i always kinda had a little bit of a crush on you. ”
“ you thought i never noticed you, but i did. i always saw you. ”
“ oh my god please don’t tell me you tried to make breakfast again, the stove hasn’t recovered since last time. ”
“ you waited for me? ”
“ i was always kind of hoping we’d give it a shot one day. ”
“ you were always my maybe, ya know? ‘maybe they’d finally ask me out.’ ‘maybe when i wasn’t the one looking, they were noticing me too.’ i know it’s silly, but. you were always in the back of my mind. ”
“ oh god you’re really gonna do the whole rocks against the window at midnight boombox thing aren’t you? ”
“ i’m gonna wait for you, as long as it takes. ”
“ loving you saved me. ”
“ why me? out of everyone you could’ve chose. ”
“ i’ve always loved you. ”
“ i know it’s late, but i just needed someone and. i guess you always answer when i call. ”
“ i brought pizza and wine and a horrible movie so in the words of rory gilmore, i’m ready to wallow now. ”
“ you didn’t have to come ya know? i’m glad you did though. ”
“ if we could run away together and go anywhere, where would you take me? ”
“ what are you doing here? it’s the middle of the night. ”
“ i dont want to go back to how we used to be. i want more. i want you. ”
“ you’ve had every piece of my heart since the moment i met you. ”
“ why is it your always the one to pick up the pieces every time my heart breaks? ”
“ are you gonna keep looking at me like that or are you actually gonna kiss me? ”
“ i’m gonna marry you one day. ”
“ i used to think about what it’d be like if we got together. ”
“ yes, of course i love you, you idiot. ”
“ just stay this time. stay for me. ”
“ don’t you dare give up on us. ”
“ i always come running back to you. i can’t help it. ”
“ you deserve someone who always puts you first. ”
“ you were never my second choice. ”
“ they don’t deserve you. and i’m not— i’m not tryna be that asshole that says i do. but sure as hell would never hurt you like that. ”
“ i’m never gonna let you go. ”