Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Now isn't the right time for that sort of thing, Revali.” Link fidgeted with the hem of his tunic, looking over to the Rito. “With the Calamity upon us and Zelda's powers…”

Link sighed, “I fear how it will go. But after the Calamity is over and we win, I would love to.”

Revali smiled softly, giving a nod to show he understood. “Then I'll wait, and you'll have my support in battle, just as you do now.”

———

Link shook his head as he raised his hand to it. Since he defeated Ganon and the Champions were revived, his memories have been slowly returning, though they do not contain much information or context. This has been a frustrating process, especially since these vague memories cause painful headaches.

“Are you all right, Link?” Link looked at the princess, a worried expression on her face. He hated it when she looked at him like this, it made him feel as if something was wrong with him, not his memories. “Did you remember something?”

Link removed his hand and nodded, a sigh escaping his lips, “Just, part of a conversation Revali and I had. Unfortunately, the memory was too vague for me to even know what we were talking about.” He looked away, tugging at the belt across his chest.

“Perhaps, since we'll be heading to Rito Village, you could ask Revali. Surely, he'd be able to give you an explanation as to what the conversation was about.” Zelda suggested, a hopeful tone in her voice and a soft smile on her lips - Link felt it was a bit insincere.

The knight shook his head, looking down at his hands as he began to fidget with his tunic. “No, it's all right, I'm sure I'll remember more later. Besides, as far as I can remember, he doesn't exactly like me, so I'd feel weird bringing it up.”

He heard Zelda sigh, but he kept his gaze to his hands, unsure if he had disappointed her with that response. “Then, let us continue to Gerudo Town. Urbosa informed me in her letter that Lady Riju was quite excited to hear that you'd be accompanying me.”

She was silent for a moment before placing her hand on Link's arm, causing him to look at her. “I'm glad you were able to make friends during your journey. I hope you'll keep in contact with them, as well as the Champions.”

———

Night began to fall by the time they arrived at Kara Kara Bazaar. As Zelda headed inside the inn to rent out a couple of beds, Link headed to the lit pot, shifting through his bag for something to make for dinner. He wasn't particularly hungry, but something was better than nothing, especially while in someone's presence. He wasn't exactly sure when this began, this irrational fear of eating; while traveling, he ate when he was hungry which was often since he fought a lot, and rumors about him stated that he had a large appetite. In his mind - based on what he's heard and what he remembers - this is a new issue, one that he intends to keep to himself, he doesn't need another reason for anyone to worry about him.

Pulling a couple of carrots, rice, and a bottle of Goron Spice that he bought during their visit to Goron City a couple of weeks ago, he tossed the ingredients into the pot and let it do its magic. Despite having done this millions of times, he's not quite sure how it works. He vaguely remembers it having something to do with actual magic, but the specifics are lost to him at this time.

“What's for dinner tonight?” Link glanced over to Zelda as she came and sat near the pot, looking to warm up from the desert's cold evening.

“Veggie Curry, for you,” he responded as he dished up the meal. He handed her the plate then turned to his bag once more, pulling out more rice and another thing of Goron Spice. “Figured it'd help warm us up.”

Zelda nodded with a quiet ‘thank you’ as she began to eat. “Not going to add anything to yours? Usually, you make yours with crab.”

Link froze for a moment, having already tossed the two items into the pot. “I didn't know that,” he mumbled, keeping his eyes on the pot. It felt like a pit had formed in his stomach, both from not remembering something as simple as that and the idea of adding more to his already planned meal. Whatever appetite he had just a second ago has now left, leaving the uncomfortable realization that he will still have to eat.

“O-oh- My apologies, I shouldn't have assumed that you remembered or even rediscovered your preference,” Zelda stated, a bit tense though Link couldn't understand why.

“It's… It's all right.” Link lied, slowly dishing up his curry. “You don't usually assume I remember things, which I'm grateful for, so it's okay if you slip up once in a while.” He sat down on the stool next to him, pushing his food around with his fork. “While I was traveling, I didn't think too hard about what I ate, so long as I ate something since I was always hungry from fighting monsters.”

He was silent for a moment before looking over to the princess. “Even though I don't remember, that sounds right. While at Zora's Domain, and even Rito Village, I realized that I liked seafood and fish more than other types of dishes.”

Zelda smiled, her shoulders relaxing, seemingly satisfied with his response. “Makes sense, you grew up near the sea. I believe that Lurelin Village is there now.”

Link looked back down to his food, unsure of how to respond. He doesn't just not remember, but the area didn't feel like home when he was there. Perhaps , he thought, I had found a new place to call home. But I'm not sure where that is.

Chapter Text

A blue wing flapped in front of him, pulling him away from whatever it was he was thinking about. “Link, did you hear a single word I said?” the Rito asked, brows knitted together in slight annoyance - something Link found amusing and cute.

The knight shook his head, “No, sorry. I’m having a bit of a hard time concentrating right now.” He sighed, readjusting the strap across his chest. “Could you repeat, please?”

Revali frowned, his expression softening into concern. “Have you eaten today? And if not, when was the last time you did eat?”

Oh…

“Um… No… Not today… I think I had some curry for lunch yesterday, though,” Link said softly, fidgeting with his hands. He felt bad, he had been doing well, but whenever he goes on these trips with Zelda, it’s easy to fall back.

“Link,” the Champion sighed before giving a small, caring smile, “It’s alright. How about we make you something light to eat? I don’t want you collapsing on me again.”

———

Placing the sapphire circlet on his head, Link ran his hands through his hair, pulling a few strands over his shoulders. He tugged down on the center part of his top - he’s always felt it was too short, exposed too much of his scars, he might look into purchasing some fabric to add on. One thing he’s grateful for is that the top keeps everything in place, so he’s not too worried about having to fight in it. Carefully, he folded his binder, pants, and Champion’s tunic before placing them into his bag, along with his boots since he changed into the Gerudo sirwal and shoes. He felt cute and after managing to eat breakfast, he believes today will be a good day.

“Link, are you alright?” Zelda's voice came from the other side of the curtain, “You’ve been in there for a while.”

“Ah-” Link pulled back the curtain, a bit embarrassed he took too long. “Yes, sorry. I should be ready now.” He reached down, grabbing his sheathed sword to put it back on. After adjusting the belt across his chest, not fully used to the feeling without his binder, he looked up at the princess, her face a bit red.

“Is something wrong?” he asked, suddenly feeling a little self-conscious being dressed so femininely.

“I- No, I just wasn’t aware that you were-” Zelda cleared her throat, looking away, “That you were born a girl.”

Link blinked. “You… You weren’t aware of this? I mean-” he scratched the back of his head, a little confused. “We were together nearly all the time when I got assigned as your knight. This isn’t something that’s easy to hide.”

Zelda bit her lip before sighing, looking back at Link. “Truthfully, you’ve never been very open about yourself. I knew you identified as non-binary, but that was really it.” She brought a hand to her chin, thinking. “If anyone knew, I’d think Mipha - though it doesn’t seem like she really thought too hard on it - or Revali.”

“Revali?” Link was a bit surprised by that, why would he ever share anything about himself to the Rito, especially something as personal as his gender.

The princess nodded, “Yes. Despite what you remember, you two were pretty close… Well, about as close as anyone could get with you two, I think.” She shook her head, “You kept your friendship pretty much between you two. We just knew that you two weren’t on strained terms. I’m sure there was more going on, but I can’t speak for either of you on that.”

Zelda straightened up, giving Link a smile, “Anyway, we should probably get going. I’m sure Urbosa was expecting us to arrive a few minutes ago.”

Link simply nodded before following Zelda out of the inn. Despite her talking to him during the walk across the desert, he wasn’t particularly listening to the princess; his mind was focused on what she said earlier, about him and Revali. What little he does remember things weren’t always bad with the Rito, so perhaps Link should take Zelda’s suggestion and have an actual conversation with him.

As the pair approached Gerudo Town and the familiar redheaded Champion came into view, it hit Link that no one besides maybe Revali had seen him like this, this more feminine side. It made his stomach twist uncomfortably as his nerves started getting to him, nausea settling in and making his throat ache. So much for having a good day…

———

He tugged down on he edge of the skirt, an uncomfortable frown placed on his face — the skirt was much shorter than he had imagined when he originally bought it. Foolish of him to not ensure it’d be an appropriate length, but it’s rare he buys himself things, especially on a whim like this. He had been hoping to go out today since it was a rare day off and he felt good, now he just feels like he’d commit a crime just leaving his bedroom.

The sound of the front door creaking open caught Link’s attention, pulling him away from his thoughts and drawing him to the door of his bedroom. “Oh, hello, can I help you?” he heard his sister upon opening the door, hoping to get a glance at who was paying them a visit.

“Sorry to disturb you, miss. I’m looking for the Hylian Champion, Link, does he live here?” Link eyes widened at the voice. What was Revali doing here?! How did he even find out where he lives? He shut his door as quietly as possible, leaning against it and glancing down at himself, he’s most definitely not dressed for a surprise visit.

“Oh, yeah,” Arielle responded, “He’s upstairs, first door, can’t miss it.” There was a pause and the sound of talons tapping on the wooden floor. “You must be Revali,” Link heard his sister continue, “Link talks about you a lot, at least in his letters.”

“Surely all good things, I assume,” the Rito responded with a high and mighty tone that usually gets on Link’s nerves. Usually… It’s become more endearing now, as Link learns more about Revali and his struggles, seeing the person behind the facade of confidence. The sound of talons getting closer reminded Link that he needs to change and quickly.

“Not at first,” Arielle deadpanned, “Honestly, if it wasn’t for the fact that he told me things have gotten better between you two, I probably would’ve shut the door on your beak.” Link cringed hearing that even though he knows she absolutely would have.

“I see,” came the quiet response, though Link was positive the Rito was standing just outside his door – a suspicion that was confirmed with a simple knock. The Hylian scrambled to grab something more appropriate; a shirt, pants, something to hide the only other secret he wishes to keep quiet about. In his haste to redress, Link tripped over his boots, causing him to fall backwards, a loud shout and thud exposing his clumsiness.

Link groaned as he slowly sat up, rubbing the back of his head in an attempt to, hopefully, ease the throbbing ache. He tensed as he heard his bedroom door creak open, causing him to look up, the familiar feeling of nausea rising in his throat. So much for keeping this secret, he’ll most certainly be judged.

“Link, are you alright? I thought I heard you sho-” Revali paused as his green eyes landed on the Hylian, still dressed in a frilly blouse and a much-too-short skirt, his binder hanging up in the wardrobe. After a long and painful silence, Revali opened his beak, “Are… Are you okay?”

Tears welled in Link’s eyes, forcing him to look away. “Yeah,” he said quietly, “I just… tripped over my boots…” The sound of the door closing and talons approaching him made the tears fall, his throat tightening, and his stomach churning. Why wasn’t Revali saying anything? Surely his kindness only goes so far, surely this is something worthy of the Rito’s ridicule. A wing was placed on Link’s shoulder, causing him to flinch and look at the warrior. He watched as Revali’s eyes looked him up-and-down, before landing on his face again.

“Your skirt seems a bit short,” the Rito said softly, catching the knight off guard. “I… know how to sew, so if you want, we could see if we can get some fabric and I can make it longer.”

Link blinked, allowing the offer to process in his head despite his disbelief — there was no judgment, no mention of Link’s feminine body, no mockery from the Rito, nothing Link had expected. He swallowed, lifting his hand to wipe away his tears as he nodded, a smile forming on his lips. “I’d like that.”

———

As much as Link appreciates Urbosa not saying anything about his appearance, she has definitely been side-eyeing him and it made him feel so much worse than Zelda's surprise earlier. Truthfully, he was tempted to leave and stand at the entrance like he used to, like he was required to before, but he didn't want to disappoint Riju by leaving even if she did understand. He did want to go visit the young Chieftess, but habit had him stuck to Zelda's side waiting for her to dismiss him.

“Link." He blinked as he looked over to Urbosa and Zelda, both of them giving him slightly concerned looks. “Are you alright?” The princess continued, “You seem distracted.” Ah, he was spacing spacing out again.

Link nodded, bringing a hand to his temple as a familiar ache formed. “Just… Remembered something, is all. About, uh, Revali… Finding out about this…” He explained, glancing down at himself. Taking a deep breath, he dropped his hand and looked back at the two women — perhaps he had more than one reason to purchase more fabric, not only did seeing his scars make him uncomfortable, but so did seeing his torso in general.

It made his stomach churn.

“Oh!” Zelda exclaimed, “Hopefully he wasn’t disrespectful about it. I can only imagine how he’d react.”

Link scratched at his cheek as he looked away, feeling a bit nervous about being put on the spot. “Actually, he didn’t acknowledge it.” Looking back at Zelda, he continued in sign, trying to ignore the nauseous feeling at the back of his throat, ‘For once, I have more context for this memory. I’m not sure if he acknowledged it later when I wasn’t overwhelmed, but I was having an issue with my clothes and he offered a solution… The problem was really obvious.’ The knight was sure his face was a bit red, but whether it was from the heat or from the memory, he’s not sure.

“Oh? Quite unexpected of him. I’m curious as to what his solution was,” Urbosa hummed, a teasing smile resting on her lips. Link felt like whatever he’s about to say, the Gerudo warrior would use as ammo to mess with Revali — he believes that it wasn't uncommon for her to do, remembering her little prank on a sleeping princess.

‘I had… bought some clothes on a whim, I think, and didn’t check to made sure it was long enough.’ The knight stated, tugging a bit at the fabric over his hands. ‘He offered to sew some fabric to it to make it longer. I wonder if my current issue is what triggered the memory.’

“Current issue?” Zelda repeated, a confused look on her face. “Your outfit looks to be the right size.”

‘It is, but…’ Link looked down, biting the inside of his lip before continuing, ‘I’d like the top to be longer, I find that I’m not comfortable with my scars showing.’ Not a lie, but not entirely the truth either. He looked over to the clothes stall, his brows pinching together. ‘I want to buy some fabric, but I’m not sure if Saula sells it or would even be willing to sell some.’

“Well then, shall we go ask? I’m sure there are also other styles available that would be more suitable for you, dear.” Urbosa stated, placing a hand on her hip. “A new top may be cheaper anyway, but I believe there's also dresses and skirts, if you wish to go that route sometimes.”

Link's eyes widened, having not realized that there might have been more options, had he just asked. A small smile found it's way to his face. 'I'd like that.’

Chapter Text

“You seem distracted, little one.”

Link jumped, spinning on his heels to face the Gerudo chief; he looking past her to see that Zelda was still at Naboris’ center console. He sighed softly, looking back at Urbosa, feeling a bit embarrassed he got caught off guard — that could be an issue if he’s not careful.

‘ How long have you been standing there? ’ he signed, a complete disregard for his usual composure — why bother when his mind’s already distracted?

“Not long,” she hummed, though her amused look turned to slight concern. “Though, I noticed you’ve had something on your mind since your arrival. Is something bothering you? It’s not quite like you to be so easily startled, even our dear princess has noticed your unusual behavior.”

Ah, seems he’s more than let his guard down. He looked away, scratching at the back of his head for a moment before replying, ‘ I’m fine, thank you for your concern. ’ A blush crept it’s way up to Link’s cheeks, how truly embarrassing for someone of his position. ‘ The princess and I will be heading to Rito Village after our visit here. ’

Urbosa nodded, probably made aware of their plans while Link had to wait outside of town. “Does that make you nervous? Zelda had informed me that you and Revali seem to have improved your relations, though, I do find it hard to believe.”

Link nodded, a small smile forming on his face — screw formalities, he supposes, he finds he enjoys talking about the Rito. ‘ We have. Enough that we often write to one another. He’s actually really caring and considerate when he’s not being a jerk. He… wants to invite me up onto Medoh when we arrive. I find I’m a bit nervous, I’m not the biggest fan of heights. But I trust Revali, I don’t believe he’d allow me to fall. ’

The chieftain gave a look of surprise at his response, before it turned into an amused chuckle. “My, my, Link. Do forgive me if I’m assuming, but it sounds as if you’ve developed feelings for our snappy companion.”

The knight took a deep breath, wondering if his face could turn any redder than it already was. ‘ I wouldn’t say that… Perhaps… Not now at least… ’ Link looked down, biting his lip as he fidgeted with his tunic — when had he started that, he’s not sure, probably after things changed between him and Revali. “But…” he started, softly, “I find I’m not against the idea, of loving him.”

He looked up, receiving a warm smile in return. “Then I shall wish for a positive outcome,” Urbosa stated, placing a hand on her hip, “and a prosperous relationship, for the two of you.”

———

As Zelda worked on extending the fabric of his top, Link had switched back to his blue tunic. It was strange to wear it without his binder, though he knows it’s better than getting kicked out, even if it confuses everyone who doesn’t know him well. Behind him, Lady Riju sat, running a comb through his hair as he often forgets to care for it — he prefers others doing it for him anyway.

He closed his eyes, taking a deep breath as he thought over the new memories; Revali learning about Link being born a woman, and just now, Urbosa pointing out his — at least back then — sprouting feelings for the Rito. He can’t really say if those feelings linger from back then, he has a sense of appreciation for the warrior and his friendship, but he hasn’t spoken to Revali since leaving him at Rito Village. Truthfully, Link does feel bad for basically avoiding him — it was easy to assume the Rito disliked him, especially since that attitude of his was still present.

Perhaps it was just difficult to pretend things were fine.

“Link.” He opened his eyes, turning his head slightly to look over his shoulder, seeing a worried look on Riju’s face. “Are you okay? I fear you’ll break the cup if you keep gripping it like that.”

Ah–

He placed his cup on the floor, a blush creeping it’s way to his cheeks — he had forgotten all about his drink, so lost in his head that he didn’t even realize his grip had tightened. It was supposed to help with the headache that had formed from the memory earlier, but now his headache is worse, even if it’s barely bothering him. Sometimes a high pain tolerance is not a good thing, perhaps he should speak to Mipha about the headaches, he’s quite tired of them.

“Sorry,” he said softly, “I was thinking is all, I don’t mean to concern you.” He began to fidget with the end of his tunic, frowning as he noticed the stitching was starting to come undone — hopefully Zelda won’t be upset by that. Not the worst state it’s been in, seeing as he’s almost died wearing it, but still–

“You’ve been in your head since we left Kara Kara Bazaar.” Zelda pointed out, not looking up from the project in her hands. “Are you sure you’re okay? We’ve been so busy lately, I was hoping coming to Gerudo Town would allow you to relax.”

“I… am a bit overwhelmed…” Link admitted, picking at the threads on his tunic. “Between you and Lady Urbosa finding out about me being born a woman, which I didn’t even know was a big secret, remembering that Revali knows about this as well… I also just remembered something else, so my head is pounding worse than before.” He sighed, releasing his tunic to bring a hand to his head in an attempt to massage the pain away.

“Oh? What did you remember?” Riju asked. Link could feel her parting his hair, probably to braid it, though he believes his hair’s a little too choppy to look good in braids. “Also, have you spoken to a doctor regarding these headaches? You didn’t used to get them before, did you?”

“No, you’re right,” he stated, closing his eyes once more, “I started getting them after recusing Zelda, but it only happens when I remember something. Before, when going by the pictures on the Sheikah Slate, I’d get a slight ache that’d disappear as quickly as it appeared. Now I get a headache, which varies in pain depending on what I end up remembering.” Link paused, sighing as he opened his eyes. “And regarding your first question, it was just a conversation Urbosa and I had about Revali.”

Riju hummed, “I’ve heard from Lady Urbosa that he’s an… interesting voe. Quite brash and boastful, speaks much too confidently, even if he has the skills to back up what he says. She had also explained to me that he once looked down on you — which I cannot fathom why — believing you didn’t have what it took to defeat the Calamity.” She paused and Link could feel a slight tug on his hair before it was released over his shoulder, showing the finished braid.

“Even so,” the young Chieftain continued, moving to sit beside him, “I’m quite interested in meeting him one day. Especially if you have, or had, a different view of him prior to the events 100 years ago.”

The knight could feel his face warm up again, unsure if he should speak about the memory — he was still trying to figure out where all these memories connected.

Even so…

“Urbosa and I were… She believed that I had feelings for Revali.” Link explained, looking to Riju, a bit nervous to be talking about this. “Based on a memory I recovered on the way here… I think she was correct, but he and I held off on getting together due to the situation back then…”

“I knew it!” Zelda shouted, slamming her hands — and Link’s top — down on the table in front of her with a loud thud. The noise had caused both Link and Riju to jump, looking at the princess with confused looks. “I knew there was something going on between you two, but you both kept to yourselves and each other, so it was impossible to tell! Especially when Revali would just deflect my questions as they weren’t important.”

Link’s stomach churned uncomfortably and saliva coated his tongue, causing him to swallow, though that made the feeling of nausea so much worse. “Zelda… I can’t- I can’t confirm whether that was the case. And if it was… I’m not sure if I have those feelings for him anymore.”

“It had to be.” The princess insisted, a determined look on her face — Link was sure she’d keep pestering him just to get to the bottom of this. “I’ve seen the way you both looked at each other. It’s similar to how Mipha looks at you, and her feelings for you are no secret.” Zelda leaned back, crossing her arms, giving Link a solemn look. “I… can’t say much on that last part. I know neither of you have interacted with each other much since his revival... But, surely, you felt something when you freed him. When you got to see him after so long?”

Link looked down at his lap, the feeling of bile rising in his throat, making his eyes water — though that could also be due to the stress he feels. In all honesty, just like before the Calamity, he had pretty much ignored his personal feelings regarding the Champions — having not remembered them fully and not wanting to get attached to people who he believed would remain dead. If he felt anything towards the Rito, he doesn’t know.

He doesn’t want to know.

Link stood up, keeping his head down, not that it helped with either the tears or the nausea. “Excuse m-me, I-I need a mo-moment,” he stated, his voice shaking. He rushed in the direction of where the guest rooms were, a hand over his mouth to try and keep down the day’s meals — at least for as long as possible. His eyes and throat burned as he sought for the some privacy, to hide the unsightly scene that he couldn’t stop.

So much for having a good day…

———

“Link,” Zelda called after the knight, a concerned expression on her face. Perhaps she pushed too far this time, especially after he had just told her the previous night he was grateful she didn’t try to force him to remember things he couldn’t.

“Princess…” She looked to Riju, a small frown on the young girl’s face. “I… don’t think Link thought too hard about his relationships with the Champions, at least, not until recently. Insisting that he was once in love, especially to someone who was dead and he had forgotten about, probably won’t make him want to interact with Revali. I feel it’ll only make the situation between them worse.”

Zelda took a deep breath, looking down at the top she had been working on. “I… I just want him to be happy, you know. The Calamity took a lot from all of us… But I believe Link had the most to lose. His home, his father and sister, a potential lover, his memories…” She looked back to the Chieftain, tears welling in her eyes. “To protect me, he lost everything. The least I could do is see he leads a happier life.”

Riju sighed, “I don’t think you can define someone’s happiness, Princess. Even if Link still loves Revali, I’m sure this experience has changed them both. Who’s to say either of them want to pursue a relationship after all this time.”

She stood up, heading in the direction Link retreated to; she paused at the doorway, turning towards Zelda. “I know I’m young and do not yet have the ability to go and experience what being in love is like… But I do know that feelings are complicated, and I can’t imagine all of the feelings Link’s going through, except for that they’re probably overwhelming. He should figure them out himself without us insisting something is true.” The Chieftain then turned away, head into the doorway, leaving Zelda alone to her thoughts.