Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

117 years ago.

Before the calamity even dared to creep out from his evil lair.

Before the pain, and before the destruction.

How did this all happen?

Not even Hylia could explain it in such detail. Everything was so… Different. 

The trees danced freely, the wind sang their praises.

A forced marriage. Two lovers torn apart, separated by the treacherous land. Love still prevails, even when the odds are stacked against them.

Childbirth was unbearable. But Urbosa stayed by Queen Zelda’s side. Even when Sheikah doctors tried to kick her out, both women refused such. Rhoam wasn’t even there for his own daughter’s birth.

Urbosa was always there.

She held Queen Zelda’s hair back when she was ill, held her when her visions were too horrifying to bear alone.

Rhoam only married her for power. That was it. Plain and simple.

But Queen Zelda knew that she had to do what was right for her kingdom. One day, she would die; and she would need another princess to take over in her stead. 

No matter how much it pained her to admit, it was the truth. 

Soon, the young princess’ first birthday. The young princess was taken to Gerudo Town, and she got to play with other children her age. Her mothers were so happy for the little girl.

She was going to persevere. They both just… Knew it.

Princess Zelda’s toothy little smile brought a smile to all that had the pleasure to see it.

Then Princess Zelda’s second birthday came. Followed by her third and fourth.

Queen Zelda’s health and power was waning by the day.

Urbosa hated to see it, and even placed the Gerudo Captain in charge. Such had never happened in all of Gerudo history. Ever. 

Urbosa moved into the palace, despite the complaints from the king.

Princess Zelda was happy to see her second mother more often. Little did she know, she would lose her first mother in time.

Queen Zelda began to keep a journal. She knew she wouldn’t be able to watch her daughter grow, so she felt an obligation to give her advice regardless. Urbosa fully supported this. Rhoam didn’t know.

At the young age of five, Princess Zelda’s mother Queen Zelda died.

Reasons weren’t fully known, and wouldn’t even be released to the public.

The princess mourned her mother. Urbosa went away. She went away for a long time. 

The king was happy Urbosa was finally out of his palace—even though it was never really his—and attempted to brainwash the poor princess.

Zelda was forced to pray to the goddesses multiple times daily. Rhoam didn’t understand a thing about her royal power—and even with his restricted research—this is what he thought was best.

But maybe… His best wasn’t good enough for the kingdom. For his daughter. For the late queen.

He knew it.

“It’s the way the ancient powers were supposed to be awakened.”, Sheikah scholars stated.

But was it really?

Chapter Text

After 13 years of radio silence from Gerudo Town, the king sent the naïve princess there. He sent a royal advisor (her most trusted friend Impa), and her chosen protector (by the name of Link.).

It was a perilous journey, but Zelda seemed to enjoy it. What was it with royalty and horseback riding?

They made a stop at Kakariko Village and let her watch Sheikah scientists run tests on the guardians. She even helped a bit, before she had to get dragged out of her research.

Link and Impa had to fight off a multitude of enemies, and Zelda was forced to sit at the side.

Finally, the three travelers arrived at Gerudo town. Link wasn’t allowed inside, so they decided to sneak him in with a disguise.

Link waits at Kara Kara Bazaar, hanging out by the little lake.

They drag him to the back of the Bazaar, out of sight. Then, Impa reveals what was behind her back.

Clothing.

Gerudo clothing.

For women.

Not a skilled knight.

‘No.’ Link signs, with an agitated look on his face.

”Come on Link!! You’re supposed to protect me, how can you do that if you’re not with me?” Zelda smirks deviously.

‘Your highness, you do realize this is a warrior town, right?’ Link narrows his eyes.  ‘I would be worried if they didn’t protect you well.’

”What would the king say about you abandoning your sworn duty, hm?” Impa chimes in.

Link takes a deep breath inwards, clutching his hands as he does such.. ‘Impa, you are like a million years old, shut up. Your highness, it is unbecoming of a knight of my status to-‘

Zelda cuts him off. “I won’t fund your sword collection anymore if you don’t do this for me.”

Damn, she really got him there. 

‘Fine. Fine! Not a word about this.’ Link threatens.

The two women snicker and Link begrudgingly puts the clothing on.

‘I don’t get paid enough for this shit.’ Link slips his hands out far enough for the two women to see what he’s saying.

“Show us!!” Impa yells.

Link comes out from the changing room. He looks like a vision in the green top and purple pants. To top it all off, he was also wearing the matching veil.

‘This is ridiculous.’ He states, placing a hand on his hip, and pointing at the two young ladies.

Impa immediately takes a photo with the Sheikah Slate. Link doesn’t even notice, thankfully.

The three actually head into town this time. The guards stop Link at the gate. He freaks out, thinking that his cover is blown.

Yeah, the guards were just flirting with him.

Impa and Zelda had to stifle their laughter.

Finally, they let Link through, definitely checking him out as he walked by. 

Link, Impa, and Zelda head through Gerudo Town, looking at all the sights. They were having a blast, until Impa reminded Zelda of their mission.

Zelda groaned, and then headed towards the Chieftess’ room, annoyed.

Link and Impa stood outside the door, deciding to let the nobles do their thing.

“Who goes there?!” Urbosa shouts. She pulls out her Schimitar of the Seven, and gets into an offensive stance.

Zelda shields her face with her arms. “I’m sorry to intrude, I need to speak to Lady Urbosa!” 

“This is she. What is your business here?” 

Zelda lowers her hands, and looks Urbosa in the eyes.

Urbosa instantly recognizes her.

“I am here on behalf of King Rhoam. I am Princess Zelda. Pleased to meet you, ma’am.” She says with a smile.

“What are you doing here.” Urbosa bites her lip, to try and not cry.

”As you may know, Calamity Ganon is going to revive any day now. There are followers of his at every corner of Hyrule. We are in need of four warriors to command Sheikah tech—Divine Beasts as we like to call them—to help the chosen hero…” Zelda pauses. “And me. In our task. To seal away Ganon once more.”

“I shall do it, Princess.” Urbosa says swiftly. “I am the only warrior suitable of such an important task.”

Not to mention, I need to keep my little bird safe. It’s what my Zelda would want. She whispers under her breath.

”Are you sure? We couldn’t possibly leave your village without a Chieftess. I’m not sure how Gerudo Town’s customs are—due to my father burning every book in the palace about your culture—but it would be unjust to do such!” Zelda rambles.

Oh, of course that utter dickhead wouldn’t let my own daughter learn about my culture. Hylia… She looks so much like my Zelda. 

“Our customs are different. For a year, I had to put the Captain in charge for… Personal matters.” Urbosa replies. “My heir situation is extremely complicated, and probably boring. I wouldn’t wish to bore you with it, your highness.”

”I wish to know! Please?” Zelda gives the Chieftess the biggest puppy dog eyes she ever has.

”Alright honey, sit down.” Urbosa beckons, gesturing to her couch. She sits next to the young princess.

”How do I even begin to explain this…” Urbosa mutters. “Okay. So I was in love with a noble from another place in Hyrule. A woman, to be exact. She was forced to be married, and we were torn apart.”

“Wait… Was? Did you fall out of love??” Zelda asks.

”I’ll get to that, little bird.” Urbosa clears her throat. “She was forced to.. Procreate with this man. She became pregnant with a girl. Her husband cast her off to the side. I took care of her. In sickness and in health. It’s funny though, because that’s what was in his vows to her. I digress.”

Urbosa looks down. “She gave birth to that beautiful little girl, and life was good for a bit. We stayed here. In Gerudo town. For months. All three of us were happiest here.  Every few weeks she had to return to her… Manor. She had official things to do, that couldn’t be done remotely. So that little girl stayed with me.”

She opens and closes her palms, of which are facing her. “Soon both of them had to go back, and my lover grew ill. She could barely eat, walk, or sleep. I went up there. I put my Captain in charge, and spent my life caring for them two.”

Tears pool inside Urbosa’s eyes. “She died. I… I was too late to save her. She was walking in a courtyard, and a rogue Yiga member showed up. They killed her. She tried to fight back, but she had no strength to do so.”

Urbosa’s head tips back. “I should’ve been better. Then… Maybe she would still be alive. I heard her screams. But the silence after the fact scars me the most. She died. In my arms.”

“It wasn’t your fault Urbosa.” Zelda reassures, reaching a hand out. She pulls it back just as quickly.

Urbosa clears her throat, and wipes her tears.

”Ahem… I’m sorry I got emotional there. But basically, my heir to the town is also heir to another kingdom.

"So what's the problem?" Zelda inquires.

"She couldn't possibly choose between somewhere where she grew up and a place that she technically doesn't have a right to." Urbosa sighs. "Princess, may we please drop this conversation for now?"

"Oh of course! I am so sorry to have caused you harm. My inquires seem to do that a lot lately." She mutters the last part under her breath.

"You are not a burden." Urbosa states sharply.

"Hm? I didn't say anything about feeling like that."

"I could tell. You are not a burden, little bird. Someone very close to me had to knock it into me, and I will knock it into you if I need to. For lack of better words."

Zelda quickly hugs Urbosa, and both ladies let out a sigh that they didn't know they were holding. 

"There, there..." Urbosa reassures Zelda. "It will be alright, my little bird."

Soon, Zelda tries to drift off to sleep. Urbosa takes her to the advisor and knight-in-disguise so she can get adaquate sleep.

When Zelda leaves, she feels as if something is missing. Someone is missing.

Perhaps it be her unknowing daughter. 

Perhaps it be her perished lover.

She doesn't know. She can't even begin to make sense of all this madness.

Why would that idiotic king try to erase her only living mother?

What if the royal bookchambers had records of Gerudo history dating before she even knew about?

"Oh, my precious Zelda.' Urbosa steps outside and looks to the stars. "You would know what to do, but you aren't here..."

Because of me.

Chapter Text

Soon, Lady Urbosa had to see the Princess off. 

Her heart broke a little bit, but it is what was required of her to do.

She knew the princess was in good hands. 

After a stupidly long journey, Impa, Link and Zelda arrive at the outskirts of Zora's Domain.

Zelda declares for the three to ditch the horses and to walk on foot.

"I am exhausteeeedddddd." Impa groans. "Why are we making the trip via the long way?"

"Want to be away from my father as much as possible. Gives us a chance to do some more research on the technology, and lets us become even greater friends." Zelda smiles.

‘I'm being held captive at this point.’Link scoffs snarkily.

"Me too, "fishlvr87', me too." Impa replies.

‘Oh my HYLIA!’ Link groans. ‘I date ONE Zora. ONE. And suddenly it is my entire personality?! Fucking bullshit.’

"Yeah, but it's so funny how mad you get whenever we bring her up." Zelda quips. 

Link groans. ‘When do I get a raise?’

"Shut up chain." Impa says. “How did you even learn Hylian Sign anyways? It’s a dead language, right?” 

“Actually, it is not. It’s just rarely used because a lot of people are uneducated. If you can find a good teacher, you are basically set. There’s many Sheikah Scientists and doctors that know a lot about it, and its history. Apparently, it used to be used on the battlefield so enemies couldn’t hear you.” Zelda rambles. 

“Checks out, actually.” Impa muses.

They finally made the trek to the domain. They were greeted at the gates by a young little Zora, dressed in princely attire.

”Hi!!!! I’m Sidon! I am prince of the Zora!” The young Zora—Sidon—says with a charmingly toothy smile. Sidon then locks eyes with Link. Not even a moment later, he runs up to Link and hugs him. Link picks him up and spins him around. “Hi Linky!!!!” 

Link puts Sidon down. ‘Hi buddy. Where’s your sister? Or your father?’

”Throne room, doing boring adult-y stuff. Let’s play!! I have a new trick to show you!” The young Zora jumps gleefully.

“We have to talk with them. Can you bring us there?” Zelda replies sweetly.

”Ugh. Fineeee.” Sidon bemoans. “Follow me!!” He instantly changes tone, and springs for the throne room.

Link follows Sidon automatically, while Zelda and Impa take precious time; wanting to take in the beauty of Zora’s Domain.

Link and Sidon arrive to the throne room, with Zelda and Impa not far behind.

Zelda swallows the lump in her throat, and goes on her spiel.

“….And we need someone to pilot the divine beast. Whomever you decide will definitely be suitable.” Zelda stated robotically.

”I’ll do it.” Miphas voice barely rises over the small crowd. “I shall pilot Vah Ruta.”

King Dorephan stood up. “No. You will not. I will not allow this.” His voice echoes through the entire domain, sending a shudder down everyone’s spines.

”Father, it’s what’s best for the Zora. I will be careful. I won’t disappoint.”

“Mipha, I don’t care about that. I care about you being alive and well.” Dorephan plops back down, whispering now. “I can’t lose you. I’ve already lost your mother.”

”I will come back safe and sound.” Mipha smiles. “I promise. Zora’s honor.”

King Dorephan gave an empty smile back. “So be it.”

”Where to next, princess?” Impa spoke eloquently.

‘Goron City. Birds aren't real.’ Link signs sarcastically.

“Link… Have you ever touched a history book? Or even went to school?” Zelda asks.

Link looks at her with a blank expression. ‘There are two ways to answer this. I can be sarcastic and say something like ‘I can’t read damn it.’, or I can say something truthful like ‘Yes I did you whippersnapper, and I bet I got a better education than you’. But one would be rude, and the other would go over your head.’ He rolls his eyes. ‘Besides, I was joking.’

“Asshole.” 

‘I try, I try.’

Chapter Text

After resting up at a stable at the foot of Death Mountain, the two Hylians and Impa make the trek up there.

Link and Impa both have plenty of fireproof  elixirs for themselves and the princess. Link leaves all of his flammable materials at the stable’s inn, same with Impa.

The hike up the mountain is beyond excruciating. 

Yet, the three still make their way up. Even with the sun—and the volcano— beaming down on them.

Every step feels like they might pass out any minute, which might actually be true.

3 hours later, they finally make it there. 

The princess and her advisor make some more elixirs, and Link opts for the armor. 

“Hello… Erm.. Daruk?” Zelda calls out, begging for an answer.

A few moments later, a giant rock slides down the mountain, and stops right in front of her. The rock turns into a goron, and begins to laugh heartily.

”Why hello tiny princess!” He pats her on the back, accidentally too hard—but he really doesn’t mean any harm. 

“Hello! Daruk, is it?” Zelda questions.

”The one and only.” Daruk laughs heartily. “What’s up? Goron City is quite out of the way for Hylians.” 

Zelda clears her throat. “As you already know, we have recently unearthed the divine beast Vah Rudania. But, we are still in need of a pilot. It will be key in defeating Calamity Ganon. If you know anyone that would be able to do it… Or wants to do it… Please do tell.” She smiles.

“Oh of course! As the leader of this village, it would be an honor to pound that Ganon into oblivion!” Daruk Smiles. “Pelo?! Where you at sister?” He beckons.

Pelo rolls down the hill. “Hm? ‘sup brother! Whatcha need?” 

“You’re the new village leader.” He slaps her on the back.

”Cool. That it?” She rolls her eyes, giving him a fist bump.

The two Gorons burst into laughter, and Pelo goes on her way.

‘That was ridiculously easy.’ Link muses.

”What was that?” Daruk’s brows furrow. “Is that some kind of code sign to kill me?”

Impa stifles her laughter, as does Zelda.

“If it is, it won’t work.” Daruk smirks, and shows off his supernatural power. “Just that good, eh?”

Zelda clears her throat. “Erm, Daruk? That’s how Link talks.”

Daruk’s eyes widen. “Wait… How does that work?” Daruk wraps his arms around his chest. “Are his hands basically his mouth?”

Link shakes his head no. 

“Have you never met anyone that uses Hylian Sign before?” Impa inquires.

”Nope! Also I think my hands are too big to do any of that stuff.” Daruk chuckles.

“You’ll pick it up in time, don’t worry.” Impa smiles at him.

”Wait… Can he hear me??” Daruk looks horrified.

Link lets out a soft laugh. He nods. 

“Oh…” He looks around, perhaps looking for little rocks nearby?. “Shit. Sorry little guy.”

Link gives him a thumbs up. ‘The more you know, or something.’ He signs in a clunky manner. The fireproof armor is not helping him at all.

”Yeah, what he said.” Daruk gives a hard slap onto Link’s back, knocking the wind straight out of his lungs.

Link gasps for air, and Daruk is none the wiser. The man is trying his damn best.

”Alright, we shall be in touch. We should really be heading down.” Zelda looks at the sky, and the sun is beginning to set. “We should probably get back to the stable.”

”Feel free to stay! We got all kinds of cool stuff here! Even though we Gorons just sleep on the ground, we do have an inn with more ‘traditional’ beds for our visitors.” Daruk beams.

”We shall do that some other time, Daruk.” Zelda smiles sweetly.

”Alright. Don’t let the rocks hit you on the way out!” Daruk snickers. He is met with many looks of confusion. “It’s a Goron thing.”

The two Hylians and the one Sheikah all nod in agreement, and bid their goodbyes. 

After another five hours, they finally make it down from Death Mountain. It took a bit longer this time, due to the three being exhausted. 

Regardless, they all made it safe and sound to the stable. They all close their eyes and dance among the stars, until morning hits.

Chapter Text

Thankfully, Rito Village wasn’t that far away. At least they’re able to take their horses along. 

Chatter and laughter danced around the three, and time seemed to go by astronomically quickly. 

Soon, Link, Impa and Zelda were on the threshold of the village. 

Not before long, they were attacked.

Impa stayed back to protect the princess, while Link met the threat head on.

Or shall I say, feather on?

As can be obvious from the overall landscaping of Rito Village, there isn’t many visitors. Especially not Hylian ones.

Now Link was in no plan to harm any Rito. The Rito are valuable allies, and to get on the bad side of one… That would be detrimental to the Hyrulean Royal Family.

So, he opted for a stealth-like approach. Deflect enemies as needed—have the Rito help out Zelda and Impa—simple. Right.  

Why, he couldn’t be more wrong. 

As Link approached a clearing, he decided to take a second to drink some water. 

He heard leaves rustling in the trees, but paid no mind to it.

Link decided to keep moving along. ‘Perhaps the bokoblin or moblin camp is nearby…’ he thought.

Link takes three steps maximum, before he is shot at viciously. He takes his sword out, then circles around in the same area; trying to find the threat.

Soon, a blue feathered Rito emerges from a nearby tree. Link puts his sword away.

“State your business, wingless fool.” The Rito stares at Link with a look of utter distain. 

Link cracks his fingers. ‘Here with Princess Zelda.” 

The Rito furrows their brows. “Yeah, sure you are. How do I know whether or not you’re a Yiga Clan member? Or just an overall idiot?” The Rito circles around Link, trying to intimidate him.

’You do realize the Yiga Clan rarely—if ever—goes this far away? The Hyrulean and Gerudo armies beat them back before they make it past the desert. Besides, I would’ve stabbed you if I was said member.’ Link chimes back, with a smirk on his face, and his hands moving quickly.

”Mhm, alright, sure. Can you talk? Just because I’m the pride of the Rito, doesn’t mean that I’m completely fluent in Hylian Sign.” 

‘So you’re stupid?’ Link furrows his brow, as if genuinely confused. ‘That sounds like the pride of the Rito alright.’ He rolls his eyes.

”Well excuse me for not needing to know that shit! Even if I needed to use it on the battlefield, I could wipe enemies out before you could even sign what enemy it is.” 

‘Wanna bet?’

”How much?”

The Rito flies into the air, and Link just puts his hand on his hip. 

‘Dumb bird.’

”That’s it!” The Rito squawks violently. The blue-feathered fiend reins down upon Link, sending a flurry of arrows. Link collects all the arrows—at least the ones that aren’t literal fucking bombs—and uses them against the vile Rito.

Link throws a beam from the master sword, and it makes a giant gash on the rito’s right wing. 

“You bitch! That’s a low blow.” The rito growls. He falls to the ground.

Blood stains the Rito’s pristine blue feathers. Link begins to feel bad, but then he remembers that this dude was being an asshole, so it’s okay. Fi probably will give him an earful later though…

’Give up yet?’

As Link signed the last word, the princess and her advisor come storming in.

”Link!!!” Zelda shouts. “What are you doing?! STOP!!!” 

Link rolls his eyes, and raises his hands in surrender. 

Impa and Zelda come closer cautiously, only to find the Rito bleeding. 

“My goddess, what happened to you?” Impa questions, inspecting the bird as best as she can (without invading personal space, for once.)

“Gee, I wonder.” The Rito replies, staring daggers at Link.

’You attacked me first, I was trying to finish the job off, dumb bird.’ Link smirks.

“What.” Zelda’s eye twitches. She turns to link, like a mother utterly disappointed and angry at her child. 

Zelda clears her throat. “Excuse me. I need a moment.” She walks away about 50 feet, and screams into the distance. “WHY THE FUCK DID YOU CURSE ME TO BE AROUND HIM, HYLIA?!”

Link scratches the back of his neck, and about 20 minutes later; Zelda returns.(scarily calmer at that…)

“The next chance I get, I will kill you.” Zelda points a finger in Link’s face.

Link signs a million different ‘sorry’ s. Zelda still doesn’t change her mind. 

Soon, they bring their attention back to the Rito, and take him to the clinic in the village. 

The medic rolls her eyes. She then looks at his wing and winces. “Hylia. How the hell did this happen?”

”That idiotic knight. It’s actually laughable that someone like HIM is trusted to keep the princess safe. He fucking massacred my wing. Don't you see?!”

“Revali, stop being dramatic. A puny Hylian couldn’t have massacred you within thirty minutes. You must have gotten hit by a moblin or something. No damn way.”

”Yes he did!” The blue rito—Revali—Squawks. “It’s only because of my superior aerial combat, that I am not dead.” He puffs out his chest.

”One day someone’s gonna put you in your place.” She clicks her beak and finishes patching up his wing. She turns to the princess and her entourage. “I’m so sorry about him. He’s… An asshole, putting it nicely..”

”Oh, how gracious you are Rotri. Truly feeling the love here.”

Revali stares at Link once more. 

Link is quick to jump to his personal defense, obviously. 

‘The sword, Princess Zelda, and you have already given me an earful. you’ll live.’ 

“THE FUCK DO YOU MEAN THE SWORD?!” Revali questions.

’The sword talks to me!’ Link says with a dopey grin.

”I’m going to rip all my feathers off and throw myself off of the tallest mountain in Hebra.” Revali covers his face with his wing.

”Link, stop being a damn menace for five minutes. You don’t even know the guy.” Impa punches Link.

’Don’t have to know someone to hate them.’ Link brushes Impa off. 

“Why do I have to take care of you two…” Zelda mutters. “Let’s go see the elder. Now.” 

”Oh why hello! What a pleasant surprise! What brings two Hylians and a Sheikah to Rito Villiage?” The old rito chortles.

”Hello Rito Elder…?” Zelda begins, but soon forgets his name.

”Gaepora. Princess Zelda, is it?”

”Oh, yes. Well Rito Elder Gaepora, we have a boon of sorts to ask of you.” 

“Go on my child, what is it?”

Impa clears her throat. “Well as you know, sheikah scientists have unearthed divine beast Vah Medoh, and we need a pilot. We need someone who is strong, has a mastery of the sky, and can think on their feet.” 

Zelda silently thanks Impa, because she was going to go absolutely insane if she had to say all of that again.

”Ah yes, I wasn’t expecting this so soon…” Gaepora mutters.

“Well, I guess it be better to make the decision now… Before it’s too late.” Then, he clears his throat. “May I have a few moments…? To think this over?” The rito begs.

”Of course. Take your time.” Zelda replies sweetly, walking out of the roost. Impa and Link follow not far behind.

If I choose him, I break a promise I swore on my life to keep. If I don’t… The Rito may cease to exist at my own feathers.

He’s too young. I should go in his place. But what good is an old man in battle, other than calling the shots? He’s the only logical option Gaepora, dammit! 

But what if he gets hurt…?

What shall I do then?

What if he refuses? 

Oh Hylia…

Zelda, Impa, and Link come back into the roost.

”Revali. Revali shall be your champion.” Gaepora speaks.

”Pardon for being blunt, but shouldn’t Revali have a say in this?” Zelda whispers, as if she will get struck down for saying such.

”He has to. It’s an order.” Gaepora turns to look out to the mountains of Hebra. “I shall discuss this with him later. You will find the inn to be more than suitable for your resting needs.” Gaepora says coldly.

As the morning arrives, Gaepora beckons Revali into his roost. 

“Revali… Come here my boy. We have much to discuss.” Gaepora points his feathery hand to a pillow in front of him.

”What’s up?” Revali questions, in an unusually soft tone.

”Oh, you aren’t in trouble! I bet that is what you’re thinking, hm?” Revali doesn’t meet his gaze, so he thinks it must be true. “Sit, please. We have much to discuss.”

Revali sits on the pillow almost automatically. Perhaps he was trying to not sit before, but one may never truly know.

Gaepora clicks his beak. “So, you know the Princess of Hyrule was here earlier; correct?”

”Yes father.” Revali’s brow furrows. “Is something wrong? Look I’m sorry I attacked that puny knight, but he had it coming!-“

Gaepora cuts him off with a wave of his wing. “First of all, I didn’t even know about such. You are going to apologize to the poor child.”

”He gave me a giant gash on my wing, he should be apologizing to me!” Revali retaliates, pointing at his right wing. 

“Revali, you know better.” The old Rito sighs. “That’s a conversation for later, anyways.” 

Revali’s eyes meet the ground, and Gaepora doesn’t pay any mind to it.

”As you may already know, Ganon will return. But with people wanting to revive him… It may be sooner than we thought.” Revali looks at Gaepora, with an unreadable expression. He has no choice but to move on. “The Sheikah tribe has dug up great beings, called divine beasts. These beasts have to have a pilot… Do you see where I’m going with this?”

”…What?” Revali looks at his father, utterly shocked. 

Gaepora takes Revali in his arms, and for once the teenage Rito doesn’t object to the affection. “I wish I didn’t have to do this. You are like my own fledgeling. I have raised you since before you could squawk or talk.” A tear escapes Gaepora’s eyes. “This is an impossible decision to make Revali, Goddesses I hope you understand that.”

“Father- Dad. Why me? If I’m your son, why do you want to send me to die?!” Revali pushes away from Gaepora.

”Son… You are the only viable option. If you weren’t still a fledgeling, you could be elder. You have the might for it.” Gaepora reaches out to cup Revali’s face. “I’m sorry. I’m so, so sorry. The fate of the Rito… Nay, the fate of Hyrule depends on you. I can’t send anyone else but you.”

Revali swats the old rito’s wing away and stands up. “What happens if I die in battle, hm?”

Gaepora squeezes his feathered hands together. “You won’t. I know you won’t. My boy, you are too stubborn to even think of letting that happen. That’s why it must be you.”

Revali begins to walk away, but stops at the doorway of the roost. He looks back over his shoulder. “Father… I hope you’re right.” He mutters, before going to his own roost.

As Revali leaves, Gaepora is once again left alone with his thoughts.

What if he does die in battle? What will I do then?

Revali storms out of the Elder’s roost, and marches straight towards the inn. Zelda and Impa have long since been asleep, but Link is still awake.

He arrives into the inn, and Link rolls his eyes. 

Revali grabs Link by the shoulders, and starts shaking him violently. 

“Why the hell can’t you guys just seal this stupid calamity away. Why can’t I live a normal life?! The princess is supposed to have power, where the fuck is it?!” Revali shouts, with glossy eyes. “Am I just supposed to die on that battlefield? What about my father? Hm?! I can’t leave him, I am all he has left.” Revali barks the last sentence out.

Link’s eyes soften, and Revali finally lets him go. “Go on. Say something!” Tears escape the poor Rito’s eyes, and he is pretty much begging.

‘I had a family once. Dad was in the Hyrulean army, and mom was the sweetest woman ever. Dad died when I was 15. Mom died a few months later of heartbreak. It’s hard, I know.’

”Well captain obvious, your family has been long since dead! My dad is still very much alive.” Revali punches a pillar of the inn-roost, making the entire platform shake.

’I was trying to relate to you! Forget it, fucking bastard.’

”Do you touch your girlfriend with those hands?” Revali snarls.

‘Don’t want or have one.’

”Honestly don’t even know why I’m surprised.”

Revali walks out of the inn, anger still seething.

He flies over to the flight range, and decides to take his frustration out in a somewhat healthy way. 

He shoots targets until dawn.

As the morning comes, Zelda and her entourage make their way back to the castle. 

It’s quiet. Too quiet. But who’s going to complain about the lack of bokoblins? Nobody, that’s who.

As always, Zelda begins her next morning at the castle with intensive prayer, leaving Link to ponder what all happened at Rito Village. 

Chapter Text

Two weeks later, all champions were beckoned to come to the castle. 

All of them dressed in their fanciest clothing, with an additional hint of blue. 

Zelda was adamant that the champions deserved some kind of momento, or something for doing this noble task. Rhoam was denying this, but eventually caved.

Each champion had a blue champion garb, with their divine beast’s logo embroidered. All but one, Link. But Link has an entire tunic, so it’s fine.

King Rhoam begins his valiant speech. “Welcome champions. Sir Daruk of the Gorons, Lady Urbosa of the Gerudo, Princess Mipha of the Zora, and Revali of the Rito. As you may already know, Gabon’s revival is creeping upon us. And we are depending on you five to save us all.”

Urbosa clears her throat, silently asking to speak. The king reluctantly grants it.

”Your majesty—if I may—who is the fifth?” She questions.

The king sighs. “Zelda. She is the fifth champion. But she is unable to participate in this ceremony, because she hasn’t EARNED it yet.” The words hit Zelda straight in her gut.

”Father! I am doing my best!” She shouts, trying to defend herself. She has a hand over her chest, pleading in a way. “How can you hate me for something I have no control over?!”

”How can you be unable to develop a power that every other princess has done for eons? Are you chronically idiotic?”

”Father I!-“ 

“ENOUGH. I am tired of your excuses. Go to your room. Now.” Rhoam spits out, fire on his tongue.

Zelda storms off, Link following behind.

The room erupts in chatter. Rhoam realizes the grave mistake he made, and walks off to his study.

Urbosa led the way, and they went to Zelda’s room.

Urbosa knocks. “Zelda? Little bird, do you want us to come in?” She whispers through the wooden door.

Zelda opens the door, her cheeks still wet with tears. She nods, and the champions come in one by one.

Urbosa sits next to Zelda on her bed, holding her while she cries. Revali stands near the door, Link is off doing something, Daruk is sitting in the floor, and Mipha is on the other side of Zelda; whispering words of encouragement.

Twenty minutes later, Link bursts in with a bowl of pumpkin soup and a cup of water.

”What the hell?!-“ Revali says as he is beaten with the door.

Link sets the soup and water down on Zelda’s dresser. ‘My bad. Should’ve paid better attention, Rito Champion.’ Link stares the Rito in the eyes with a hint of a smirk

”Excuse me?” Revali whispers. “You hit me with the damn door! How the hell was I supposed to know you were going to do that.” A feathery finger starts waving in Link’s face.

“Boys, quit.” Urbosa glares at the two. Revali straightens his posture, Link’s smirk dissapears.

Urbosa caresses Zelda’s hair, and Mipha opens her mouth to speak. “What is the problem with you two?” She has a sweet tone, but her intentions are anything but.

’Dude thinks he’s cooler than me, so I’ve gotta show him he is NOT.’ Link signs the last word very sassily. 

Revali crosses his arms. As he opened his beak to speak Urbosa swiftly cut him off with a stare that would probably kill Medusa.

”Now. We are here to comfort the princess. If you cannot do such, get the hell out.” Urbosa commands.

Daruk stands up and begins to walk out, but he is stopped by the three women. 

“Daruk, you are alright. You can stay.” Mipha smiles at the Goron.

”I’m just sitting here, I feel like I could help out some other way… Maybe. I don’t know. Whenever we get upset we challenge one another; and whoever loses either loses a limb or dies.” Daruk smiles. “It’s a fun tradition! It’s how we elect Chief, normally.”

”Goron traditions are so fascinating.” Zelda mutters.

”See Daruk? Helping.” Urbosa says with a smile.

”I don’t do well with the whole feelings thing. Is there anything I can do that’s NOT related to the princess crying.” Revali shakes his feathers and shrugs. “Sorry, but I wouldn’t be much help regardless.”

‘I’m here guys.’ Link smiles meekly and gives a thumbs up.

Urbosa gets an impish grin. And an awful idea. An amazingly awful idea, at that. “Link, Revali, how about you two go do something together. Team bonding exercise or something. Clearly you two are so aloof that you need one on one time. So why not start with the hardest one?”

“You’re kidding me. This is actually ridiculous.” Revali scoffs. “You think making us hold hands and sing a song will make us best friends or something? No. That’s not how life works, Urbosa. Some of us have to train day and night for shit. Unlike some of us who are born with our powers, and can control them at will! I had to work to be respected, unlike your ass.” The Rito snarls, slamming the princess’ door.

“Huh?” Zelda whispers.

“Oh the nerve of that rito. When I get my hands on his feathers, it is OVER.” Urbosa walks out of the room menacingly. A large thud is heard outside, and she comes back in feeling very relaxed.

Urbosa clears her throat. “Ahem. I’m sorry, Princess..”

Zelda

So he had to work for his power too? He’s just like me, in a different font… So to speak.

The realization is jarring, to say the least. 

Perhaps his cold exterior isn’t just being rude, but it’s a learned behavior? I need to investigate. Perhaps once we get him and Link to realize their similarities over their differences, they can become friends. And we can become one big happy family!

Oh, but it never works like that. We can at least try.

Link

Okay so he’s a bitch, but now he’s a bitch with a backstory? I kinda feel bad for him, but he was such a dick whenever I did try to help him.

Perhaps it is like what Zelda said. “The ones whom seem coldest, never experienced any warmth.” Even though I barely understand that.

But it does seem like a fitting quote for Revali.

Revali

I am utterly sick and tired of all these people gloating over things they didn’t have to work for.

Zelda is the only exception, due to the fact Hylia isn’t granting her the power. Or however that works. Link…

Ugh I don’t even WANT to think about him. 

You’re a knight? Cool. But why the hell wont you speak when you’re spoken to? It’s kinda what you learn as a fledgeling. 

Unless he has some condition where his voice straight up doesn’t work, there is no excuse! 

The rest of them are idiots. Daruk is aloof, Urbosa acts all cool but she is so insecure about something, and Mipha fucking scares me. She seems nice, but DAMN that Zora can be vile.

She’s so much shorter than me, but she is actually more terrifying than Link is. Scary as that is to say.

Daruk

I wonder what we are having for dinner… These champions seem really cool. I wish I could invite them over. We could have a party.

Mipha

These dumbasses better get in check before I actually throw myself off of Shatter-Back Point.

I may have grown up with Link, but I will not hesitate to kill him. No healing. Straight up death. Hyrule will be FUCKED.

Urbosa

This entire situation is beyond frustrating. My sweet, sweet Zelda… What would you do in this situation?  

Chapter Text

If only we could say that was the end of it.

Of course, nothing is ever as easy as we wish it could be.

A few weeks later, the rooms for each champion are done. Well technically they are all guest rooms, but they at some that the royal family could spare. It also helped whenever training went a bit longer than expected, since the stal enemies have been  more and more common as the days go on.

It was a quiet morning at Hyrule Castle. The birds sang, and the Hylians all decided to sleep in. Of course, Princess Zelda’s chosen knight was a completely different story. Link awoke and slept with the sun’s schedule. If he truly had it his way, he would sleep in. Alas, such isn’t possible.

It is about 4:00 AM. Link heads off to the training ground quietly—to not wake up anyone else—and after a few minutes, he arrives. To his genuine shock, there is a Rito at the archery sector.

He doesn’t pay this any mind, and begins to stretch out his muscles. As he does the annoying, but necessary task.

As Link stretches out his muscles, he can feel eyes on him. Once he’s done stretching, he looks around to find the pair of eyes. It seems that there is none.

“I swear, I get more and more paranoid by the day.” Link mutters underneath his breath.

He heads over to the training dummy, and withdrawals the sword on his back. He does a couple practice slashes in the air, then begins attacking the poor dummy.

And again, those eyes are on him again. The presence feels familiar, but it doesn’t bring any comfort.

But still, he pushes through. What good is a knight who easily gets distracted? None.

After about an hour, Link hears a voice grace his ears.

”Why are you here?” Revali questions the Hylian. “And why the hell can you suddenly speak?” A scowl appears on Revali’s face. He points an accusing feathering finger at Link.

”Training. I’ve been able to speak this entire time. Dumbass.” Link rolls his eyes and turns away from Revali. 

“Likely.” Revali brings his wing down. “The princess’ chosen knight doesn’t need training, does he?”

”Since you are so dense, let me try to put this in the simplest terms I can.” Link clears his throat and leans closer to Revali “You train, to not only get better, but to also retain your abilities.” Link says the last part with a heavy dose of sarcasm on his tongue—his breath hot near Revali’s feathered body.

Revali feels his heart beating through his chest. “You and me. One on one. Now.”

”Eager to try and prove your superiority, hm?” Link looks Revali dead in the eyes. Even though Link is significantly shorter than the Rito, the act still brings a shiver to Revali’s bones. “Hate to break it to you, but your ego’s showing.” 

Link looks Revali up and down before suddenly walking away.

Revali stands there, utterly stunned. Link looks over his shoulder whilst smirking.“There are two ways to play this game. Either way, I’m in it for the long haul.”   

“What the fuck?!” Revali brings a wing to his beak, and his eyes widen to the size of a hydromelon. The flustered Rito walks away as well, back to his own room.

He walks over to the washing basin and splashes his face with cold water. He shakes the water off of his feathers, and sits in his hammock. “Hylia, what kind of sick joke are you trying to play on me?” He mutters.

Chapter Text

As the sun settled into its cozy spot in the sky, Revali still had one thing on his mind.

The previous interaction with Princess Zelda’s chosen knight.

He begins writing a letter to his father, seeking the man’s advice. His pen flows quickly onto the paper, and he goes on a deep rant about this ‘Knight.’

Dear Rito Elder Gaepora, my father.

This letter is in regards to the utter imbecile that is Princess Zelda’s chosen knight. This man is so annoying, I may pluck my damn feathers out. I’ll probably give my corpse to him as a birthday gift at this point. I can already hear you squawking, but it is probably the best idea before he kills me himself.

He does NOT get to have that honor. 

This morning, I awoke with the sun. As does every Rito Warrior with any kind of pride. This Hylian. This fucking Hylian. He gets up in my face, and starts blabbering on about some random crap. He got all up in my personal space, and he did NOT leave room for Hylia. 

What the fuck was he even thinking? We are ENEMIES. Nothing more, nothing less. It’s utterly despicable that he got up in MY personal space. Did I somewhat enjoy it? YES, But that is not the damn point. Why the hell is HE her chosen knight, when there are perfectly capable candidates. According to some digging, this DUMBASS ate an entire Goron Roast. And we all know damn well that Goron’s eat only rock. Yeah, put that in your head. 

And apparently he can talk?! He has been mute from the moment I met him a few weeks ago, and then he’s trying to SEDUCE   KILL me. This is absolutely asinine. Apparently after we do whatever the hell we have to at Hyrule castle, we get to go to our respectable abodes. Sounds great? No.

Princess Zelda and the damn knight will be coming to all of our homes and prodding with the Divine Beasts. 

This is infuriating, to say the absolute least.

I shall be home soon, I hope. My hatred is seething, just so you know. 

Dearest Regards,

Revali.

Revali gives his heavily worded letter to a Hylian mail carrier, and waits for his response bitterly.

A few weeks later, he finally gets a reply.

Dear Champion Revali, my son.

One Hylian cannot be getting under your feathers this badly. There is a perfectly valid reason for not only your ‘hatred’ but also him being the Princess’ chosen knight.

You are jealous. Whether that be of the Princess and her time around Link, or Link himself.

You aren’t a little fledgeling anymore, as much as this pains me to say. You are allowed to court people, do you realize this?

This attitude towards Link will only be detrimental to the bond that the Champions must have. You need to have respect and trust in one another, or you are doomed to fail.

I don’t mean this in a completely abrasive way, but we both know you are in desperate need of tough love.

Whenever Link comes over to the village, I expect you to be on your best behavior. You will invite him to dinner, and you will pay for his stay in our hotel. No excuses.

Dearest regards and sending prayers…

Rito Elder Gaepora, your father.

Revali throws the letter from his father on the ground. The letter only took a few days to be sent and then received. Revali locked himself up in his room at Hyrule Castle until he got the utterly baffling letter from his father. 

Now, he emerge from his cocoon—so to speak. He is greeted by all the champions, including Link.

A scowl makes it way onto Revali’s face, as he watches the Hylian sign every single word on his mind. The other champions laugh either with him, or at him. Revali cannot tell, and doesn’t even care that much to look at Link’s hands.

Suddenly, Link finds Revali’s eyes, and signs with a smirk. ‘Look who finally showed up’ Link points at Revali.

“Hello, Revali. Ignoring us, haven’t you?” Urbosa crosses her arms, looking at Revali with an unreadable expression. “It’s been weeks since you left your room.”

”I’m glad I’m not the only one who noticed such. Are you feeling alright?” Mipha looks at Revali with pity in her eyes. “Is something the matter?” She cocks her head to the side, very obviously trying to figure out what Revali is thinking just based on body language alone. 

“For the record, I have left my room. I have been avoiding you all. Training is more important than… Whatever we are doing here. Revali turns away from the miniature crowd. 

“Really? I haven’t seen you around at all. Are you lying?” Daruk walks over to Revali, pointing a rocky finger at the Rito.

Revali turns back around, to face the other champions. ”No I am not! I have been preoccupied with making myself the best warrior in all of Hyrule. While you are sleeping, I am training. While you eat, I am training. While you mess around and forget about our impending doom, guess what? I am training. I am keeping my skills sharp. What are your excuses, hm?” 

Link’s brows furrow. ‘I haven’t seen you practicing in the courtyard. Either you’re going out of your way to avoid me, or you’re lying.’ 

“I am NOT lying. ” Revali squawks. “You’re the one that got all up in my face the other day.” He accuses.

’What are you talking about?’ Link lies. ‘I have absolutely no idea what you’re squawking about.’

Link shrugs, and this infuriates Revali even more. Revali grabs Link by the shoulders and shakes him violently. “You know damn well what you did.” 

Link looks at him dead in the eyes. He spits on Revali’s beak.

”THAT’s IT.” Revali punches Link square in the face.

Link looks at Revali with a look of genuine shock. The other champions turn a blind eye to what’s happening. 

Link wiggles out of Revali’s grasp and lands a few punches of his own. Link sweeps his leg under Revali’s and the Rito falls onto the ground.

Revali does the same to Link. Link’s head falls onto the ground, hard. Revali pins down Link using his thighs, and breathes heavily. Link’s face has a slight flush on it.

As soon as Revali sees the blushing from the Hylian underneath him, he punches him again.

Zelda walks down the hallway, only to find her chosen knight and the Rito Champion fighting each other. 

“What. Is. Going. On.” Zelda shouts.

Urbosa quickly pulls Revali off of Link.

Link clears his throat and Revali slaps him.

”Flightless idiot.” Revali whispers

Link mutters. ”Dickhead.”

“My room. Now. We need to chat. ALL of you.” Zelda bites her tongue before she curses.

The champions all follow Zelda into her room.Link and Revali sit on Zelda’s bed. Daruk sits on the floor, Urbosa leans against the doorway. Mipha sits in between Revali and Link, tending to their injuries and conveniently acting as a barrier.

”What the FUCK was happening out there?!” 

Everyone remains silent.

”Answer me, damn it.” Zelda clenches her fists.

“We thought making Link and Revali sort out their differences in their own way would prove to be helpful.” Urbosa replies, eyes glued to the floor.

”It’s actually very helpful in Goron City. Then again we are rocks…” Daruk mutters the last part.

”Besides, I can just heal them. Their arguing was growing very annoying. I was two seconds away from throwing some punches of my own.” Mipha replied. “Thinking back, we should’ve went elsewhere to let the two brawl it out.” 

“I understand the intentions, but you all know damn well that only had like a 5% chance of working.” Zelda massages her temples. “Revali, Link? What even started this?”

“Well a few mornings ago, this DUMBASS—“ Revali points at Link. “—Got all up in my damn face, and when I finally confront this dickhead, he spits in my damn face.” 

“Hylia help us all.” Zelda mutters to herself. “Revali, you could’ve brought this up earlier, for one. Two, Link! What the hell were you thinking?”

Link glares at Revali, and then looks back at the princess sheepishly. ‘In my defense, I wasn’t.’ 

“Of course. OF COURSE YOU WEREN’T!” Revali and Zelda say at the same time. 

“Not to mention, this dead turtle decided to whisper in my damn ear.”

“Revali, what?” Mipha questions. “He lost his voice like five years ago. I remember how it happened.”

”NO?! He fucking challenged me to a battle, and we were literally chest to chest.” Revali flails his arms around wildly, to prove his point.

“That must have been a dream. Besides, why were you even dreaming about him?”

”I would rip my wings off if I EVER dreamt about that idiot.”  

“Sounds like you did, Bird-Boy.” Urbosa checks out her nails. “It’s fine to admit it. You’ll be fine.”

”Ridiculous. The entire lot of you.” Revali snarls and stands up. “I’m going back to Rito Village. If you need me, send a letter. otherwise, fuck off.” He storms out of the princess’ room, then the castle.

”Well, that went well.” Daruk announces, and is met with glares from the entire room.

Revali flaps his wings vigorously, and makes his way back home. By the time he gets there, night has just fallen. He goes straight into his roost, feeling his way through the dark. 

After being chastised for an entire hour, Link is able to slip away back into his room.

He puts a hand over his heavily beating heart. “What the hell was Revali thinking.”

He takes his hair down and runs his hands through his own hair. Link looks in the mirror, and sees his blushing face. 

“I’m absolutely ridiculous.” He mutters.

Link takes his armor off, and lies down in his bed. The events of today were plaguing his thoughts.

”Maybe I need to piss him off again..” He mutters before falling asleep.