Various x Reader

Paradise Awaits [Legend of Zelda: Breath of The Wild]

Link x Reader [Female, Gendered Term Used]   

C|TW: none   

   After months of rigorous fighting and training, he's finally done it. Ganon was no more, having been defeated once and for all. The beasts that preyed on the remaining hylians were now slain and no longer regenerating. With the freedom to unwind and focus on building a better future, Link could do what he's been craving for a while.   

   Doing his time as the hero destined to free Zelda and vanquish Ganon, Link couldn't allow himself to feel anything. There was no time for romantic attraction, there wasn't any time for him to be indulging himself, let alone committing to someone when he hadn't put an end to the chaos. It didn't completely stop him from socializing though, he didn't mind befriending travelers and merchants along his journey. Like when he met you on his way to Lurelin.   

   He asked you about the area and a series of questions concerning rumors and unruly monsters. You even sold him some resources you've collected from the region. It wasn't much of an interaction but he remembered the way you treated him kindly and offered to assist him on his journey. In these times when he was met with rude and entitled Hylians, it was a nice change. He's always had a spot for the ones that still spread kindness in these trying times.   

   After parting he thought about you more than he'd like to admit. Finding himself curious about what you were up to and if you reached your destination safely, especially on the nights of the blood moon. It'd be devastating if you happened to be around the stronger monsters with little to no chance of escaping them. He'd have to remind himself not to dwell on the dark and morbid thoughts, and focus on putting an end to the madness. Then, he would have less of a reason to think you or the people he's befriended have met a gruesome death.   

   He didn't expect to see you as often as he did. Once Link had completed his tasks in Faron he thought that'd be the last time he spoke with you. Yet upon reaching Gerudo and disguising himself as a vai, you pulled him into a vacant area to ask why he thought it was funny to disrespect the people of Gerudo. Of course, he was a little embarrassed to be caught impersonating vai but he was happy to see you again in good health. After explaining himself for context, the two of you did catch up over lunch. That's how he learned you could protect yourself against the Lizalfos and Moblins that lurked around.    

   When you had departed from Gerudo to visit your family, having been on the road for a while, Link was on his way to calm Vah Naboris. He didn't expect to be bothered about not being able to say goodbye, he told himself it was because he forgot to buy the few bright-eyed crabs you had left. That couldn't be the reason since he'd already bought plenty from Bugut during his time near Kariko. Nonetheless, he didn't let himself ponder too much, he had a mission to complete.   

   It had been many days, probably two weeks before Link had run into you for the third time. He felt a sense of relief when he spotted you in the Hebra region, during his search for hidden shrines. You were collecting spicy peppers and cool safflina that day. As the two of you caught up, you were so excited while telling him of your new experiences and it made him feel warm inside. Link wondered how you'd react to seeing the beauty of Satori Mountain, maybe you'd like the cherry blossoms and serene atmosphere.   

   That night as the two of you part ways once more, Link was sure that he developed romantic feelings for you. He was scared to walk away, not sure if he'd ever see you again. However, he knew that for the sake of Hyrule he had to keep moving. He told himself that while he couldn't pursue you he could at least use these overwhelming feelings as motivation to finish his work. Then, and only then, is when he would think of revealing his feelings to you. It'd save you both the heartache if he waited until peace was restored.   

   From then on, Link fought harder somehow. Knowing that the sooner this was all over, he could have you. He wasn't able to see you as much after your encounter in the Hebra region, but he was informed by other travelers that you were alive and well. That's all he needed to carry on. That, and the memories of you. It took him a couple of months but he finally defeated Ganon and freed Zelda. As they stood in the fields of Hyrule there was one thing on his mind. Searching for you as soon as possible and finally telling you just how much you mean to him.  

   While he didn't expect you to wait for him, especially when he never hinted at his feelings, Link prayed you'd still be free to accept his love. Only then would he be able to live a life of bliss.   

Author's Note: was gonna muck it up with yandere goodness but decided to leave Link alone, for now.