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Chapter Text

Sidon was concerned when he received news from Princess Zelda that Link was missing. It wasn’t entirely unexpected that Link would decide to spend weeks in the wilderness without making any contact with another race in Hyrule. The way Zelda’s letter had worded, it was as if he’d had been whisked away on purpose. It came with the warning as well about monsters that were more dangerous than usual. The Zora kept their guard, but Sidon could tell they held relief that none of the monsters they had encountered were lightning infused. A small blessing in these strange times.

The only real problem he had was Yona, well it was more Muzu and a small part, his father. He saw their point, Yona was to be Mipha’s advisor, and because he did not have anyone to fill the position for him. Not that there weren't those willing, but because the risk of sending anyone away from the domain in the years after the Calamity had struck, left those who left with little chance to return. 

Much like Yona, who in her years away from the domain learning about the world so she could be the best advisor for Mipha, hadn’t had the opportunity to return to the domain until recently. She would no doubt be a good advisor, given the opportunity, but Muzu and his father hadn’t given her much opportunity to process that she would no longer be Mipha’s advisor. He was not going to push her, he’d much rather give her time to grieve. Even with his foggy memories of his sister, he knew the two had been close friends. Returning home expecting to be greeted by an old friend, only to find that she had died when the Calamity struck, and no one had attempted to notify her. 

He could understand why she felt slighted. For a number of years after his sister’s death, he had attempted to escape her shadow and the inevitable comparisons to her, but he found a strange comfort in them now. Especially when Princess Zelda spoke fondly of the time she shared with his sister, or when Link’s glimpses at his past caused reminiscence on the past. On nights when his mind fell into turmoil, he found himself lingering beneath his sister’s statue, hoping for answers. More often than not he was only met with the cold, lifeless, but oddly kind gaze of her statue, finding himself oddly calmed by the gaze.

So, in his current troubles, Sidon found himself wondering to his sister’s statue. He stopped in his tracks when he found Yona standing below the statue, staring at the blue crystal forlorn. It would be best to allow her to mourn, thus he decided to wander outside the domain. This led him to Shatterback Point, where his rather foolhardy Hylian friend once decided to test his heart by leaping into the waters below. It was when he had been tasked with collecting arrows from the Lynel that once resided on the mountain, Sidon, himself had been waiting in the reservoir below. Steeling himself to face Vah Ruta, he found his gaze drawn to the Divine Beast. She almost blended into the mountains around the domain without the glowing blue lights, or the red beam that had once been aimed at the castle. All the Divine Beast had gone still and silent after the Calamity’s defeat. If it weren’t for their distinct shapes, they would likely be mistaken for landforms.

He allowed himself to revel in the relative silence of Shatterback’s peak, taking in the soft glowing beauty of Zora’s Domain. He was practically shaken out of his peace, when after almost a year of silence, Vah Ruta’s trumpeting cry echoed across the domain. Sidon watched in trepidation as the beast came to life, her lights flickering eerily orange, before turning blue. Ruta’s trumpet raising as it to threaten the return of endless rain, before freezing in place. Sidon watched the beast from his perch, waiting for something to happen, before realizing how foolish he was being. 

He shouldn’t remain idle, especially if something was attempting to seize the Divine Beasts. A quick gaze to Death Mountain proved his idea that Ruta was not the only Divine Beast that had been rudely awakened. Link would be absolutely giddy at the thought of Sidon following his lead, but time would be wasted if he attempted to get to the lake in the Zodobon Highlands any other way. So, without further hesitation, he dove into the reservoir below. 

Using the underwater channels that connected many of the rivers and lakes in the domain, made it quite easy to get to the Divine Beast in record time. He was glad he never left the domain without a weapon these days, so he wouldn’t be unprepared for anything that lay in wait with the Vah Ruta. He carefully jumped onto the entry platform to the Divine Beast, readying himself for battle as he entered the technological titan.

He was greeted by a lizolfos, but its silver hide betrayed its strength. Nothing Sidon couldn’t handle without help, especially since it already seemed injured and it lacked elemental abilities. He thought it was curious that the monster looked like it had already been attacked, but he could investigate that further after the monster in question was defeated. The battle went over far too easily for Sidon’s liking, a silver lizolfos was far more cunning and powerful than other lizolfos. Whoever, or whatever, had injured the lizolfos had clearly almost done the monster in. 

He recalled Link telling him that the Divine Beast had small Guardians in them, perhaps one of them had attacked the monster. Following the directives it was originally created for, rather than attacking those that opposed Ganon. He saw no sign of one of the sentries, nor any trace of one’s remains. Then his breath caught as he saw a refraction of red in the shallow pool of the main room. Another lizolfos? They were the only monsters that could survive water, besides octorocks. 

As he carefully looked closer, he realized the shape beneath the water was Zora, but none of the warriors in the domain had red scales. His heart froze at the thought of an untrained Zora, facing such a strong monster as he jumped into the water to assess their injuries. He found himself freezing further when he encountered the ever familiar face of his sister. He shook himself out of his shock, carefully gathering her in his arms to bring her above the water surface. 

Mipha’s breath was shallow, but she did not appear terribly injured. Sidon was not a healer, he would not be able to determine if there were any internal injuries easily. He was shocked by the scars and slight discoloration to some of her scales, like a result of facing the monster that seized Vah Ruta during the Calamity. He could not help her, by leaving her here, she would need a healer’s attention. 

Sidon moved to pick her up, but hesitated. He considered the state she was in, and the uncertainty of how she was alive. He considered his father, who had grieved the loss of his daughter for many years. And worse, he considered the elders, those who held grudges against Link for failing to defeat the Calamity 100 years ago. Would they blame Link and Princess Zelda if Mipha didn’t survive this time?

Perhaps it would just be faster to bring a healer to Vah Ruta to care for Mipha, it was hard to say if attempting to travel with her to the domain would be safe after all. He felt guilty for his hesitance, and for the thought of lying to his father, but he wasn’t certain his father could bear losing a child again. That was why his father had been so cautious with him, the giant Zora almost had a heart attack when he recounted his story of being eating by a giant octorock. 

Sidon mostly felt guilty for the thought of leaving his sister behind to get help, “I promise, I’ll be back soon.” Sidon couldn’t say for certain if she heard his promise, but he couldn’t waste any more time on deliberation. He swam as fast as he could to the domain, swimming up one of the many waterfalls to reach the central platform. He waved off Bazz’s concerns, telling him what he’d discovered to some extent so that he could report what happened to Vah Ruta to his father. He made mention of his intentions to return to Vah Ruta to assess the situation at hand, with his father having knowledge of his intention. He doubted there would be much further need for guards at the Divine Beast’s seat, but at least word could be sent to Princess Zelda about the situation. He briefly considered how he would manage to bring a healer to the Divine Beast without arousing suspicion. 

He contemplated for a moment on his next actions, when his eyes passed over his sister’s statue and Yona still standing beneath its gaze. He would likely only further her ire, but asking for her aid, but she would likely do anything for his sister. Sidon didn’t have time to consider how badly this could all go, the sooner he acted, the better. “Yona, apologizes for bothering you, but I need your assistance with something.” Yona gave him quite the severe glare for speaking to her, but he persisted. 

“I’m sure you heard Vah Ruta cry out not long ago, I was hoping you would be able to provide your insight on the situation. You know more about the Divine Beast than most in the domain, and it may be some time before Princess Zelda can provide her assistance. Your assessment of Ruta could provide critical information on what may have caused Vah Ruta to awaken…” he paused, carefully considering his next words, as the beast was considered to be Mipha’s tomb in many ways. He found his gaze drawn to the face of the statue as he continued, “I understand that this is no small task to ask of you, but knowing if Vah Ruta may become a threat to Zora Domain again is paramount. You have my word that, if you want it, I will convince the king and Muzu to no longer bother you on becoming my advisor.” 

Yona’s eyes narrowed at him, “do not make promises you cannot keep, Prince Sidon. You speak as if Vah Ruta was not the only one who woke.”  Sidon was surprised at her insight, and by the lack of bite in her voice. She turned her gaze to the Divine Beast with consideration, but Sidon could tell she was waiting to see if he would grace her with further information. 

“I cannot speak on the state of Vah Medoh and Vah Naboris, as I was acting with haste, but I was able to see Vah Rudania alight on Death Mountain rather clearly. There is a chance that Princess Zelda may be delayed if any of the other Divine Beasts’ awakenings cause trouble for the regions.” Sidon was quite grateful that Vah Ruta had not stirred further, but he was uncertain if that would last. Their knowledge of the ancient technology was scant at best 100 years ago, and that knowledge had been wiped out almost completely with the Calamity’s rise. 

Yona sighed, “very well, I will do as you request. I would be unspeakable for me to turn my back in the face of a potential threat to my people.” Sidon withheld a sigh of relief, but couldn’t stop himself from beaming and grabbing her hands to express his gratitude. She carefully escaped his grasp, as if trying to prevent his offense, “this doesn’t mean I’ve changed my mind.”

Sidon could not blame her apprehension, but he didn’t feel slighted in the least, his smile remaining unfettered. “Certainly not! Nonetheless, your help is appreciated.” Yona seemed slightly surprised by how unbothered he was by her blatant disregard of him, but he understood why she felt the way she did. Mipha was his sister, though he had been young when the Calamity had taken all the Champions’ lives, she had his closest friend too. “Shall we set out? I believe it would be best to gain a grasp on what is happening as soon as possible.” She agreed without much hesitation, so they set out for Vah Ruta’s seat. 

When they made it to the Divine Beast, Sidon worried on how Mipha was fairing as he aided Yona onto the entry platform. He did not want to seem rushed, but he expressed that he should enter the beast first, as he had encountered a monster there prior. He hoped the small alcove in the main terminal room that he hid his sister in would keep any lingering monsters from finding her. His entry was met with silence, he nonetheless kept his spear ready, as Yona carefully followed him. It was the silence that caused him to make out a thrumming beating sound that echoes in the interior of the beast.

He nearly dropped his spear as he recognized the pattern of the sound, Yona looked at him in concern as he faltered. “The sound. Listen, its code. A call for aid.” Part of his heart sank at the thought that his sister had attempted to call for help, when she was faced with the monster that Calamity Ganon had sent to accost the Divine Beast. Perhaps all the champions had made the futile attempt to call out for help when they had been attacked. A dreadful thought, and judging by Yona’s grimace, she thought the same. 

“We should check the main terminal, that would be the best place to start.” Sidon stated, and while being true, he also wished to check on his sister. He was shocked to see his sister standing at the terminal, a hand on the plate that activates the main controls. He froze in place as he stepped into the shallow water in the room, and Mipha’s gaze turned towards them. Her eyes were bleary, as if she couldn’t really see them, Sidon could tell she was poised to strike. Even if, she likely could not handle further combat. 

Yona couldn’t see why he’d stopped, until she practically shoved past him. He reached out to stop her, in case Mipha took her actions as a threat. The silence was broken with Yona’s voice, “Mipha?” and almost as soon as she spoke, Mipha collapsed. They both rushed to help her where she slumped against the terminal of the beast, but no matter how they tried to get her attention, she didn’t respond.

Yona quickly set about checking her condition, frazzled, speaking mostly to herself about the situation. “How? How is she alive?” He couldn’t answer because he didn’t know. Then she looked at him, slightly lost, “don’t tell me she’s been here the entire time?” He shook his head, because again, he didn’t know. 

It didn’t seem possible, and there was the fact that Link had freed the Divine Beasts. “I’m not certain, but if she’d been here the entire time, then Link would have found her when freeing Vah Ruta from the Calamity’s grasp.” Sidon answered, this entire situation was fraught with unknowns.

Yona refocused on Mipha, but he could tell her mind was reeling nonetheless, “you said Vah Rudania woke too, and potentially the other Divine Beasts? Do you think the same happened with the other Champions then?” That gave Sidon pause.

“It is hard to be certain, to begin with the other Champions would not have the same longevity as we Zora… but if it is a similar situation to Link…” It was hard to believe that perhaps the Divine Beast would have a similar power to the Shrine of Resurrection, but more concerning was the fact the Link had no memories from his past, due to his revival. “Should we take her to back to the domain?” Sidon questioned, and he could tell Yona was as conflicted as he had been.

“No, not now at least. She’s in no condition to be moved far,” then she looked at the surrounding walls. “And there’s not telling what will happen if we take the pilot from her beast.” Sidon hadn’t thought of that, it was a concerning thought, but if somehow the Divine Beast’s power revived Mipha it just added another anomaly. “Prince, I will stay here to care for your sister and keep an eye on Vah Ruta. You need to return to the domain to keep guard, and wait for news from the Princess.” Thus, began their agreement.

Revali wasn’t entirely certain when his mind became conscious. When Link finally landed the final blow on the Calamity, with the aid of his, of all their gifts, he felt himself sink as his spirit lost power. He felt as if he had been tucked away by Vah Medoh, as if she wasn’t so keen on relinquishing her last pilot. Perhaps that is why his spirit had been able to prevent Windblight from taking complete control over the Divine Beast, there wasn’t much they truly knew about the ancient technology they unearthed.

Then he felt like he was awoken amidst a storm. As if he was back in his endless duel with Windblight. Like something evil was attempting to take control over Medoh. He’d be damned if he let that happen, even if he was dead, he’d never allow Medoh to be used against Hyrule, against his people. Revali fought against his unknown foe in a daze, he had fought against Windblight in worse. His keen eyes had been useless in the stormy night, leaving Windblight an echo of its gleaming eye against the endless sky. Thus, he would fight this enemy blindly as well, at least the monster sent this time was not as strong as Windblight.

Suddenly, as soon as quickly as the fight began, the monster was dealt a finishing blow. Revali was aware that he hadn’t been the one to defeat it, perhaps Link had arrived just in time. This time. Or perhaps it was that Rito Warrior that had helped Link onto Vah Medoh. Teba his hazy mind supplied. Oddly enough, he ached as he found himself sinking once again. He could hear Medoh’s cry echo against the mountains as he fell. This time his plummet was halted by claws, Rito, someone had grabbed him. He shouldn’t be able to feel. He forced his eyes open, hoping to survey what had happened. He only managed to catch a glimpse of Medoh’s blue gleam atop her perch in his home. The world went black and his body went hazy before he could make out what happened.

—

Yunobo was on one of the lower ridges of Death Mountain near Gorko Lake doing a task on behalf of Bludo, no surprise for him really since it was becoming harder for the elder to venture up the mountain. What was a surprise though was Vah Rudania awakening, crying out to everything that lay belows its perch and causing the whole mountain to shudder. Yunobo was terrified that the beast would once again begin its circling to the mountain, testing its anger to erupt. However, after the initial shudder and the falling rocks that followed, the mountain stilled. He was safe from the rockfall, because of his protection, at least. 

The only sign that remained of Vah Rudania stirring was the blue lights lighting it once again. Yunobo glanced in the direction of Hyrule Castle, half expecting a red beam of light cutting across the sky, aimed at a target that was no longer there. He sighed in relief that there was no such thing. Looking over the damage caused by the fallen rock, his eyes cross what looked to be an upturned elder. 

It wasn’t entirely uncommon for elders to end up stuck on their backs if they got caught in a crevice just right while rolling. That was just what happened as their rock-like backs became harder with age. Most elders were just too stubborn to admit that they had gotten stuck, even if their younger brothers never hesitated to help them. They were all brothers, after all, even if those only truly considered to be related were born from the same stone.

The elder in question seemed to be dazed, as if Rudania’s sudden shaking of the mountain had caused him to topple from further up the mountain, he was lucky they weren’t closer to the central ridges of Death Mountain otherwise the poor elder may have been flung right into lava. He couldn’t tell who the elder was from the distance, but he couldn’t leave them stuck on their back. “Don’t worry, goro!” I’m coming to help!” Yunobo shouted to inform the elder that he was coming. The elder in question, didn’t react. Hopefully he hadn’t been hit by one of the rocks that fell, even if Gorons were naturally tough, falling rocks were still dangerous in their own ways. 

Yunobo took little time at all rolling down to the lower slope, slowing his momentum was a different story, but at least he didn’t crash into anything. He ran up to the stuck elder, and even on closer inspection, he couldn’t entirely tell who he was. His beard and hair were unkempt and were a length that could rival Bludo, he must have taken quite the tumble to be so roughed up. It was odd that he had the wrist bracers that marked him as a warrior, even though there weren’t many that chose to be warriors these days. Yunobo was only considered to be a warrior because he came from the same stone as the Champion, Daruk. He even had Daruk’s champion cloth and the central link of the chain he once wore to prove it, though no one was entirely certain how he had them. 

He spoke out his concerns for the elder, and he reached for one of his large hands to at least set him upright. “Are you alright, goro? You look like you took quite a tumble, don’t tell me you got hit by the falling rocks, too.” Yunobo attempted to check the older Goron for injuries, and he’s a little alarmed to see his hide mottled with scars that make him look like he swam through lava. The Goron himself raised one hand to scratch his head, as he shook himself out of a haze.

“Oh? I think so? Feels like I got clobbered by a Talus, though.” The elder spoke roughly, other than looking worse for wear, he seemed like Bludo on a bad back day. The elder at least managed to get his fluffy eyebrows in check, which made him seem more familiar to Yunobo. But not familiar in the way to cause Yunobo to make him out among his brothers he sees every day, or even from those who travel and return home with goods from all over Hyrule. No, Yunobo feels like he’d seen his face on one particular occasion, but when. 

It took Yunobo to realize where he’d seen this Goron before, but he was shaken when he realized who he was face to face with. He remembered the day Link had gone to free Vah Rudania very clearly, it wasn’t everyday you see a Hylian jump into a volcano, after all. He remembers spending hours on the edge of Death Mountain’s caldera, worry about Link and cursing himself for his own fear. Then after many hours, waiting and worrying, Vah Rudania rose out of Death Mountain. As it set its sights on Hyrule Castle, he saw its former champion standing on its shoulder. Daruk had seen him too, raising his fist to the sky as Yunobo looked on at him stunned, he had managed to break out of his shock to wave back. Seeing the very Goron alive, in front of him, was something else entirely. 

“Daruk! You’re alive, goro! What- h-how?” Yunobo flailed a bit in his shock, reaching out to the older Goron, but still too shocked to touch. Uncertain if he was really living, but realized that Daruk had felt very solid when he’d helped him upright.

Daruk seemed to blink out of his confusion at the question, staring at his own hands in confusion, “I’m not sure myself. One moment I felt like something was trying to take hold of Rudania, and the next thing I know, I’m down here. No surprise I ache so much if I tumbled so far off Death Mountain. How’re the others, the Princess, the little guy, Link?” 

Yunobo could hazard a guess at who the others he mentioned were, “I-I don’t know. The Princess and Link, though, they’d most likely be in Hateno Village.” Daruk took in the information, and stood as if to set off to find answers, but stumbled on his feet before he got far. “You should rest up a bit, maybe soak in the hot springs for a while before setting out so quickly. You don’t even know what Hyrule is like now, goro.” The hot springs would help with Daruk’s aches and potentially heal any residual injuries he had. 

Even if Yunobo didn’t know much about Hyrule himself, he’d only traveled down Death Mountain once, and that was to visit Link at his home after the Calamity had been defeated. He wasn’t the only one who had their concerns for Link, as he’d met the Zora Prince Sidon, the Rito Warrior Teba and his son Tulin, another Rito named Kass, the Gerudo Chief Riju, and her guard Buliara. It wasn’t a surprise that Link had met so many people during his travels across Hyrule, but Yunobo was mostly glad he wasn’t the only one that was concerned for the hero’s wellbeing. 

“I suppose that’s not a bad idea.” Daruk conceded, Yunobo had a feeling he wouldn’t have made it too far down the slopes of Death Mountain. At least there were hot springs nearby, they were far from Goron City.

“There are springs just down the ridge from here, goro. And while you’re resting, I can go up to Goron City to get supplies.” It probably wouldn’t hurt to get the older Goron a Stone Smasher to use. His weapon of choice was given to Link after freeing Vah Rudania, so a Stone Smasher would have to do. So they both set down the mountain, Yunobo leading the way for the stiff champion, until they were settled at the hot springs below Gortram Cliff. 

Daruk easily sank into the waters, and promptly fell asleep where he was sitting. Yunobo was concerned for him, but he supposed the older Goron had been through quite the wringer today. He felt slightly guilty for leaving Daruk on his own to get supplies, but Yunobo knew the old Goron had a shield far stronger than his own. When in Goron City collecting supplies, he garnered a few questions about his gather of supplies. When he mentioned helping out an elder that got tired further out on the mountain, his brothers were quick to aid him with supplies. Some also loaded him up with their finest rock roasts. Even if their elders were often too stubborn to ask for help, their younger brothers would always step into help without a word. 

Riju was with Buliara and Princess Zelda examining the Seven Heroine statues. Zelda had wanted to get a better look at them after Link supposedly found the Eighth Heroine. Riju couldn’t blame her, it seemed that Link had a knack for finding secrets hidden away in Hyrule. The Princess was using a table similar to the Shiekah slate that Link had, a replica created by the remaining Shiekah scientists. Apparently it could track Link’s Shiekah slate, but the marker for the slate had disappeared months ago. Before that it had disappeared for several weeks before reappearing in Hebra, almost making it to the stable outside of Rito Village, before promptly vanishing again. 

Teba and Kass had been quite concerned when they heard the news, at the very least it didn’t seem to be the work of the Yiga. The Rito and other races were given word to keep an eye out for the Champion. Riju had a feeling the word had even been spread amongst merchants and others who frequently traveled the various regions of Hyrule. It was relief to see how much Hyrule cared for its hero, but perhaps that just had to do with Link himself. It wasn’t uncommon for stories to be traded amongst travelers about a short blonde Hylian that had come out of nowhere to save them.

Riju knew that Zelda was concerned, and that’s why she offered the idea of seeing the Heroine Statues. It would be a welcome distraction for the Princess, and it had worked considerably well. That was until something shook from above them, like something had crashed into Spectacle Rock. That something turned out to be Vah Naboris came stumbling down the cliffs south of the Heroine monuments. Her grating cry echoed across the sand, as the cliffs buckled under her weight. She made it to the lowest part of the cliffs, before her legs gave out, and she went still, laying in the same position she had been when awaiting her moment to strike down the Calamity. 

The three of them waited in silence, holding their breath, waiting for the Divine Beast to move again. It was Zelda who spoke first, “we should check to see what may have woken Vah Naboris.” They all knew what could potentially happen if the Divine Beast happened to be awakened and potentially controlled by some evil. There was no point in leaving that up to fate, it would be best to see what may have disturbed the beast’s rest. 

It was a difficult climb up to where Naboris had seated herself, Buliara insisted on taking the lead. Riju had given the Thunder Helm, which Link had returned after defeating Ganon, to Zelda. Riju had some natural protection due to her heritage, and Buliara would refuse the protection, but the Princess would be the most at risk. Especially with the electrical circuits that ran through the Divine Beast. 

They carefully entered the beast, the entry platform beneath her was empty. It was when they entered the central chamber that they smelled ozone. Though that could be chalked up to the electrical terminals in Vah Naboris, this felt more like lightning had struck the inside of the beast. The lower part of the main chamber was empty, though there were scorch marks that enforced the idea that something had caused lightning to strike within the beast. 

Riju had heard Link tell stories about the various blights that had tried to take control of the Divine Beast, and she was almost concerned that Thunderblight had somehow returned. The stories Link told of Thunderblight, however, made it hard to believe that it would be here. Thunderblight was quick, it would have attacked them by now if it had somehow been revived, unless something was keeping it from attacking.

Buliara carefully led the way up to the walkway that held the central terminal of Naboris. What Riju couldn’t have expected to see was one of her own slumped over the display plate of the terminal. Her skirt was a brilliant blue that Riju had only seen Link wear, the symbol of Vah Naboris placed neatly on the worn trim.

Riju was too busy grasping at the reality of what she was seeing to process, who had managed to enter the Divine Beast. Zelda, however, knew who she was in an instant, pushing past Buliara to reach out. “Urbosa!?” It was Zelda’s reaction that spurred Riju into action, if the woman before them was the Champion from 100 years ago, it would be best to return her to the safety of Gerudo Town as soon as possible. 

“Buliara, I need you to get Lady Urbosa back to town as quickly as possible. Take Patricia.” Buliara looked like she wanted to oppose Riju’s orders, but this was a matter that went beyond the boundaries of normality. “We’ll follow behind, don’t worry.” They could come back to investigate Vah Naboris later, now they had to worry about the condition of her former champion. 

Riju’s gently took Zelda’s shoulders, to allow Buliara the space to pick up the Lady Urbosa. Though, it was hard to tell her condition, Riju could make out gray streaks in her hair, and lighting scars that covered most of her exposed skin. “Princess,” Riju started gently, “we should return to Gerudo Town, the Divine Beast can wait. Buliara will take Lady Urbosa.” Zelda wiped some of the tears that had sprung loose, but looked at her with fixed determination. No doubt, she would be doing all that she could to ensure the wellbeing of her long-lost friend. 

Teba sat in his roost, minding the food that Saki had started, before rushing off to get medicine after he’d returned home. For once, he wasn’t the one who’d come home injured, instead it was a young Rito with navy feathers. Though that was his primary color, his plumage was riddled with white, that would suggest age, but Teba could guess was due to scarring similar to a curtain Hylian he knew. 

Teba’s roost was quiet for now, but Harth had been with him when they say the young Rito fall out of the sky. Kass had also seen the two of them return with the young stranger, though judging by the thoughtful look on the traveler's face, he likely had an idea of who the young stranger was. For now, the stranger was at rest in one of their hammocks, and Teba had to swallow a sigh at his son’s curiosity for their guest. 

The fledgling had grown quite a bit since they first met Link, and was getting to be a handful to keep from flying off to explore every corner of Hyrule. “Tulin,” Teba huffed, gesturing to his son to sit will him. Perhaps he could use the boy’s curiosity to his advantage at the very least. Tulin recognizing that he was being pulled away from his curiosity, sat down next to him with a slightly disappointed huff. He still leaned against Teba’s leg, when he brushed a hand against his son’s crest. Teba lowered his voice, like he was telling his son a secret, “I have a mission for you. There’s no telling how stubborn our visitor is, and he may end up pushing himself when he should be resting.”

It didn’t take long for Tulin to catch onto what he was beginning to say, “you want me to keep an eye on him?” He whispered conspiratorially, his blue eyes gleaming. 

Teba chuffed as he nodded, “yes, but I have no doubt he won’t be thrilled to be minded by a child.”

Tulin pouted against his leg, “I’m not that little anymore.” No, he certainly wasn’t. Teba prayed to the Gods that he would stop growing so quickly. “I’ll just have to be sneaky then. Like Link!” Tulin pledged with renewed determination, Teba ruffled his crest, but their conversation ended when Saki returned with medicine. Kass behind her, helping with the supplies. Kass having learned about the Calamity from a Shiekah suggested that their stranger was likely non other than Master Revali. Teba would think he was joking, if he wasn’t aware that Link, most certainly wasn’t a descendant of the former Hylian Champion that died when the Calamity rose, but the same champion from 100 years ago. He had cheated death at the cost of many things, mainly his memories, hopefully the same didn’t apply to Master Revali. 

Revali woke to the ever familiar bird calls that he’d grown up hearing, something that he was grateful to hear on the quieter days after the Calamity struck, his spirit stuck in Vah Medoh. He was surprised to smell the salmon cooking, a sense that had left him after dying. Even when he’d given Link the gift of his gale, and subsequently eavesdropped his way into Link’s adventures, he couldn’t smell. That revelation caused him to jolt upright, almost spilling himself onto the floor as the hammock he was in shook with the movement. 

His sudden movement had caused the other resident of the hut to squawk out of shock, and Revali was shocked to meet the eyes of a young Rito with white plumage. The hatchling was just into getting all his flight feathers, but his plumage was currently standing on end out of the shock he’d gotten. It took him a moment to realize why the hatchling was so familiar, he’d grown a bit since Revali had lent his strength to Link, but he was no doubt the child of Teba. The Rito warrior that had help Link take down Vah Medoh, and had gotten a severe injury to his leg in the process.

“You’re awake!” The kid finally spoke, his feathers were still struggling to settle down after being startled. When Revali took too long to respond, his head tilted, “are you feeling alright? Dinner is almost done if you’re hungry.” Revali wasn’t sure how he was feeling, he still felt disconnected from his body. Actually, he couldn’t believe he was alive, but he supposed he wasn’t the first of the Champions to defy fate. 

“I’m fine,” he answered harshly. Not that he entirely meant too, his voice was rough, likely because he hadn’t spoken in 100 years. Was this how Link felt when he woke up? The irony of him of all people in Hyrule asking that question was not lost on him, but he was the first champion that Link had freed after waking up. He had seen the hero gradually shift from being weary of every living being he crossed paths with, to socializing easily with most people in Hyrule. “I just need a walk.” 

Tulin, he remembered the kid’s name now, squawked in protest, but didn’t follow him as he left the hut. For the most part, aside the people, Rito Village was the same as it had been when he was young. That was what had stuck out to him, when Link showed him around the village after freeing his spirit, it had been nice to see his home. He found himself on the platform that Link had informed him, was named after him, looking up to Vah Medoh. She was still perched where he’d left he when planning to strike down the Calamity. 

As far as he could tell, nothing was out of the ordinary for his Divine Beast. There was something new, that he did not recall being on his landing when he was ‘stuck’ traveling with Link. That was a carved wooden statue, made in his likeness, freshly painted to look like him too. It was obvious that Link had gotten the idea from the luminous stone statue of Mipha and the larger than life rock monument to Daruk and other important Gorons. Of course, Link would be far too sentimental to let them be forgotten. A statue for Urbosa would likely be more for Zelda’s sake than it would be for Link’s though. 

He sighed, well if the statue was here it was likely that some of the residents here already knew who he was. After 100 years, he wasn’t too surprised he’d mostly been forgotten, Rito didn’t have long lives like the Zora. Revali, like many of his kind, wasn’t keen on staying still for too long. Though they considered Rito Village their home, it wasn’t uncommon for younger Rito to fly to every corner of Hyrule their wings could reach. Which is why when age left their kind grounded, they were considered not long for this world. Revali was in a way glad he’d never made it to live that long, he never regretted being a Champion, he doubted any of them did. Mipha had only regretted leaving her father and brother to grieve. 

That cause Revali to realize that perhaps he was not the only champion who suddenly found themselves alive after 100 years. He would be able to get a better vantage point on the positions of the other Divine Beast from atop Vah Medoh, and his wings itched to take flight once more. A quick look wouldn’t hurt much, and with his speed he’d be back before anyone noticed. He readied himself for an up draft to send him soaring through the sky, but a call followed by a gust of wind stopped him in his tracks.

He found himself staring at Tulin a little dumbfounded, he’d spent years perfecting his gale, and this barely fledged hatchling could summon the wind too. Granted he hadn’t created an up draft, but more so had just hit Revali head on with a gust of wind. Of course, he was a little prodigy. Perhaps, if Revali was 100 years younger he would have been livid, jealous even, but now he was just impressed that the kid had gotten the upper hand on him.

Tulin started when he realized that he’d been noticed, “Ah, I wasn’t supposed to be caught.” He shrank behind the railings, railings that existed mostly for the sake of the village’s flightless visitors. Revali walked over to where the young Rito was hiding and peered down at him from over the railing.

“Caught? You make it seem like you were left to keep an eye on me.” The young Rito looked remarkably nervous, and Revali wanted to laugh. That’s exactly what was happening, he knew from experience. He always found it hilarious when Link would visit his home and almost all the Rito would convince their children to force the hero to take a break. Kass and his five daughters were the most effective at the task. Most other settlements in Hyrule had found out that the hero was rather weak when it came to entertaining children. 

He let a small chuckle slip, “well, hopefully your food hasn’t burned in the time you’ve been keeping an eye on me.” Tulin jumped to his feet, scurrying to check on the food that had been left behind. Revali followed at a leisurely pace, he supposed it would probably be best for him to eat something and perhaps get some help before jumping into action. He doubted there were any monsters remaining on Vah Medoh, but he’d prefer not flying into an ambush again. 

Daruk had rested the entire time Yunobo had gone back to Goron City to get supplies, he had honestly been a little surprised to return to the hot springs and find the old champion snoring away partially submerged in the waters. At least he didn’t have to worry about the old hero drowning, part of being a Goron was that their bodies made it quite easy to fall asleep while sitting upright. It actually wasn’t uncommon for people, Goron or not, to stumble across Gorons sleeping in the shallow waters of a hot spring. If a younger Goron happened to be with them, they would either be safely cradled in their older brother’s large hands or lounging on their brother’s backs. 

Yunobo didn’t bother waking the older Goron, but set about preparing himself for traveling down the mountain. It would be best to pay a visit to Link, and at least he knew some good locations to stop at on the way to Hateno. The problem is it had taken him almost two weeks to travel to Hateno on his own, and he wasn’t certain how much the Daruk would add to that. He was certain the old champion would be able to keep himself safe if they were attacked by monsters, he’d grown up hearing stores of Daruk’s accomplishments. 

His brother’s hadn’t been hard to convince in gathering supplies not only for helping out an older Goron, but gathering supplies to visit Link. One of his brother who frequently traveled and had recently returned home had lent him his bag. Yunobo was actually looking forward to visiting Link, since there hadn’t been much news from the hero in almost two moons. Not to mention that there had been a blood moon recently. The appearance of blood moons had lessened significantly since Link had defeated the calamity, but the recent blood moon had felt particularly eerie. 

Yunobo was hoping that they would at least make it to the Foothill Stables before night fell, but he would likely have to wake up the older Goron to make that possible at this rate. At the very least, Vah Rudania hadn’t moved since its initial shock against Death Mountain, that was the only thing that kept Bludo from forcing him up the mountain to subdue the beast. It was at least nice that they didn’t have to worry about Death Mountain’s temper being tested once again. 

It wasn’t long before Daruk snored a little too loudly and startled himself awake. It seems at least the soak had allowed the old champion to sooth whatever aches and pains he may have had, because he rose rather easily with only a moderately loud cracking of his back. After catching the older Goron up on the situation, they set off down the mountain. Yunobo knew the best paths to avoid trouble, and at least the guardians that usually lingered on the path to the stable had been defeated after the blood moon. 

“So, how has Link been, after the Calamity was defeated?” Daruk questioned while they traveled. There was a lot Link had gone through after the facing the calamity.

Yunobo told the old champion how he and the others who’d helped Link had known the hero had gone to fight the calamity after the Divine Beasts had fired their lasers on the castle. He had been so scared for Link’s safety that he’d rolled down Death Mountain before he’d realized it. Yunobo had crossed paths with the prince of the Zora right as he was about to reach Central Hyrule, and just as the two of them saw the true form of the Calamity rise in Hyrule Field. The two of them hadn’t been the only ones who’d rushed to Central Hyrule to aid Link, but they were powerless to help, as the Calamity’s power kept them from interfering. 

Instead they had to wait and watch until Link fired the final blow on the beast. Soon as they were able to, they rushed into help. Link was bone exhausted after the battle, and Princess Zelda was dirty, tired, and hadn’t seen the world in 100 years. Link’s shield arm had been damaged beyond anything any Zora healers could aid with. Inevitably, Princess Zelda and the Shiekah scientist made a replacement arm for the champion, after it had been decided his arm couldn’t be saved. Most wouldn’t even realize the arm existed, since it was well hidden beneath most of his clothes. 

Aside from all that, the Princess and Link lived together in his house in Hateno. Riju had joked about the two of them, but Yunobo knew that it was more due to familiarity. They were the only two left of an age that had long past, and Zelda was the only living person that remained of his old friends outside the long-lived Zora. They all knew that there was little possibility of the Princess returning to the castle anytime soon, the monument to Hyrule’s past was in shambles after 100 years. 

Time passed quickly during their conversation, and before they both knew it, they were at Foothill Stables. Traveling Goron’s weren’t uncommon at the stables at the foot of Death Mountain. It was clear that by the time they made it to the stables, that Daruk was flagging, at least they could rest for the night at the stable. In the morning, they could continue their travels. The two of them were called out by a merchant with a cart pulled by a horse, the merchant offered them a ride in exchange for protection. Though the paths across Hyrule were a lot safer these days, it was still better for people to travel together and in some cases faster.

Riju entered her room, where they had left Urbosa to rest after she had been checked by the healers. There was nothing wrong with her outside of old injuries, Zelda had refused to leave her side for hours. So, Riju had taken it on herself to get the Princess something to eat. She found the Princess sleeping in the chair she had been sitting in, her head resting in her arms on Riju’s bed. The champion of Vah Naboris was awake, running her hands through Zelda’s hair, singing an old Gerudo lullaby. 

Riju almost dropped the food she was holding out of surprise, but Urbosa held her finger to her lips. She certainly didn’t want to wake Zelda, after she’d spent most of the day fussing over the champion. Riju thought for just a moment that she was dreaming and that her mother was alive again, but she quickly shook the thought from her head.

“How are you feeling?” Riju asked, setting down the food she’d brought up in a table in her room. 

“I feel like I’ve been asleep for 100 years,” Urbosa answered, slightly in jest. Riju could tell that she was still exhausted. “Where’s Link?”

“We’re not quite certain. He’s off on another adventure, there have been monsters showing up as of late. Ones that are far stronger than they should be, but at the very least he isn’t traveling alone. Perhaps what’s happened with the Divine Beast is foreshadowing his return.” She at least hoped that was the case. It seemed that whenever trouble came up, Link would follow shortly after, solving whatever problems he could on the way.

Urbosa chuckled, “I have the feeling that you’re right. He always seems to show up whenever he’s truly needed.” 

 Their conversation ended when Zelda stirred, she was groggy for just a moment, before she shot up in her seat. “Urbosa! You’re awake!” She looked somewhere between being embarrassed at being caught sleeping, and on the verge of tears at seeing Urbosa away. Riju had the feeling that she was holding them at bay to appear strong, likely a residual habit from the past. Something similar had happened when she had met the others Link was close to after the defeat of Calamity Ganon. Zelda had been subdued as they traveled to bring Link to Zora Domain, and when Link woke after recovering, the dam broke. 

Urbosa laughed heartily at the Princess’s shock, “yes, I’m awake. You’ve grown quite a bit, little bird.” Her voice was full of affection, as she brushed her hand through the Princess’s shortened hair. Riju had no doubt that the Princess had viewed the former chief as a mother, and that the feeling was mutual. She almost wondered what relationship Link had with the Champions of old, but she doubted he remembered most of it. 

Zelda didn’t cry, but she launched herself at the old champion. Embracing her in a hug, much to Urbosa’s joy. Riju smiled at the two of them, “I don’t suppose you both would be up for dinner.” Urbosa laughed, but there were no protests from the other two, so the three of them ended up eating on Riju’s bed. Zelda and Riju filled Urbosa in on what happened in the years after the Calamity was defeated.

The pressing question was what had happened to the other Divine Beasts when Vah Naboris woke. There was no true way of telling without asking a Rito for aid or leaving the desert entirely, the high walls surrounding the desert made it impossible to tell what happened in Hyrule. They did come to the conclusion that if something did happen with the other Divine Beasts that had caused the other champions to be revived, then they would likely travel to Hateno in hopes to meet with Link and the Princess. It’s not as if anyone else in Hyrule knew that Zelda had taken a trip to the desert. 

So, the next morning, they set out for the stable at the edge of the desert. Zelda retrieved three of Link’s horses for them to travel outside the desert. Urbosa seemed greatly humored, seeing the rather large red maned horse that Zelda retrieved for Urbosa to ride. “Hello, Turnip.” Urbosa greeted the large horse as if she’d met the beast before. Zelda had her own white horse with a yellow mane, the horse retrieved for Riju was a blue, with a pale mane and white socks. Zelda’s horse had flowers in its mane and royal bridle, while Riju’s horse had braided hair and traveler’s bridle. Pudding and Truffle were their names.

“Where is Link’s favorite?” Urbosa asked. Riju had seen that horse before. A deep gray one, with darkened socks and a dark muzzle, and a white crest on its head. That one had its hair dyed orange, and often sported an ancient bridle. Link had kept it in that armor, since it allowed him to call the horse to travel with him from across Hyrule. Riju had uncertainties on how the ancient technology worked, but that particular horse was the only one that wasn’t startled by the armor. Coconut was her name.

“Waiting at Link’s house, most likely.” Zelda answered without thinking, before realizing what Urbosa had asked. She looked at the old champion with shock, “how-how did you know about Link’s horses?” 

Urbosa blinked for a moment, before a sorrowful expression crossed her face. “The four of us lent our powers to Link, to give him the best chance to defeat Ganon. Occasionally, we lend our aid in other ways. Revali was the first of us that Link freed, and you could imagine, he wasn’t entirely thrilled about that.” Urbosa’s remark caused Zelda to laugh.

“So, you all know.” Riju stated. She could question, but Urbosa had basically said what was needed to imply that the other champions knew. If they had been revived.

“Yes, perhaps we were simply given a second chance to lend Link our aid again.” It was a somber thought, because what could be behind all these strange occurrences that would cause the champions of old to be revived. Could it be something more powerful than Ganon?

Zelda’s face turned determined, “or perhaps, you were needed to defend Hyrule when her hero can’t.” Riju liked the thought of that, perhaps if there was time she could learn from Urbosa on how to channel her own affinity for lightning. Urbosa looked at the Princess fondly, but had no chance to say anything. “The sooner we find the others, the sooner we may find answers.” There was truly not stopping the Princess once she had her sights set on something. 

Sidon remained busy after finding his sister in Vah Ruta, there had been major concern with in the domain about the beast causing trouble again. Though the rain was a blessing to their kind, the endless rain paired with the electrical enemies posed a severe threat to anyone who dared to leave the domain. The endless downpour also threatened the stability of their dams, which would cause extreme flooding in Hyrule if they failed. Something that had been carefully monitored after Vah Ruta had been calmed. 

Sidon managed to reassure his father and their people. After he’d explained that he’d found a monster in the beast, but swiftly defeated it. That further analysis of the beast would be handled by Yona until they could contact Princess Zelda. The next morning came with a message from the Rito, their ability to cross Hyrule swiftly proved useful for couriering messages across Hyrule. The message proved Sidon’s concerns that Ruta was not the only beast effected, but all four had jolted awake, only to stop soon after awakening. Meaning the Princess would have her hands full. 

Muzu had expressed his joy that he and Yona were starting to get along, but he had a feeling that her grace was temporary. He refused to mention his deal with the woman who would have been his sister's advisor. Perhaps if all goes well he would not have to concern himself with an advisor at all, he swiftly shook the thought from his head. Sidon had at least managed to get some time to ensure that Yona would have proper resources while studying the Divine Beast and caring for his sister. Most Zora were unwilling to enter or go near the grave of their former princess, but he had duties to uphold, some of which his father could not do in his stead.

Yona had not been thrilled when she learned that he refused to tell his father that Mipha was alive, even if they did not know the means. Even if she was still too weak to be returned to the domain, some of the damage done to her scales were due to freezing. They would require careful healing. “She’s the King’s daughter!” Yona shouted with rage.

“And I do not wish to see my father suffer the grief of loosing her again.” Sidon managed to answer back in a level tone. Yelling would accomplish nothing, it wasn’t befitting of a king, a voice that sounded strictly like Muzu chided in his head. His answer gave Yona pause, but not in the way he was expecting. 

He was hoping she would at least understand the small mercy of not giving his father false hope, especially since he wasn’t capable of visiting the Divine Beast due to his grand size. Instead she squinted at him, like she was examining him personally. “She was your sister.” Yona started, her head tilting slightly to the side. Sidon was a little baffled at what she was potentially getting at, but he didn’t get the change to ask. “Did you not grieve too?”

He hadn’t, at first. He was still too young to understand, to lose the hope that one day his sister would return home. Then, before he had time for reality to fully set in, he had lessons, duties, combat training, and expectations to balance. He didn’t have time to grieve, he had his duties as prince to fulfil. He was simultaneously had many high expectations thrust onto him and was notoriously coddled. He knew his father couldn’t bear losing another child, it’s why he never spoke of his victory over the giant octorock that once plagued their domain, after first reporting it to his father. For so for many years, he didn’t have the luxury to grieve. Then, the statue of his sister had been placed in the center of the domain, and reality had set in for him all at once. He cry, but only found himself alarmingly empty. Finding small comfort in the meager time he found to stand beneath.

He found that he couldn’t answer Yona’s question, not in a way that he would think that she would find good enough to satisfy her. He didn’t have to answer because another voice spoke out weakly. “Sidon?” They were both equally shocked by his sister waking, but wasted no time to rush to her aid. 

“Sister?” He was careful in sitting her upright, while Yona moved to the other side of her to get her to drink. Mipha blearily looked up at them, but it was as if she saw right through the both of them. It seemed she may actually have, as she narrowly missed his crest when reaching out. He carefully guided her hand to the fins that framed his face to help her, since her eyes seemed incapable of seeing.

Mipha smiled softly, “you’ve grown so much. I feel like this is all a strange dream if it didn’t feel so real.”

“It is real, princess,” Yona interjected, there was a degree of anger that she was holding back. Not for his sister, but she was likely frustrated that she couldn’t do much to help her. Mipha turned her face towards Yona, but it was obvious that she couldn’t see her oldest friend.

“Yona, I’m so glad you’re well.” She paused, her smile turning sad, “I’m sorry that I left you behind.” That made Sidon realize that in the years that Mipha had been trapped in the Divine Beast, she had likely spent those years lamenting the fact that she had left her people to face that Calamity alone. Yona seemed to catch on the same, her fins dropping as she shook her head. Yona attempted to deny her, Mipha had known the risk she would be taking in becoming a pilot for Vah Ruta, but it wasn’t her fault that the Calamity had made its decisive strike against Hyrule.

“Sidon.” Mipha started, and though he could only faintly recall his sister in the past, he could tell he was about to be scolded. “I need you to take me home, father should know the truth, before we go find the Princess.” Sidon and Yona attempted to interrupt her, out of concern for her condition. “I’ll be fine, but if I know the others, they’ll likely be on their way to find Link and Zelda.” 

Yona and Sidon shared a look of concern, but they both knew that there would be little convincing her otherwise. So, with a Yona’s help, Sidon carried his sister into the reservoir beneath Vah Ruta’s seat. Yona assisted Mipha on getting herself secured on Sidon’s back. He at least could thank the fact that he’d outgrown his sister, since she could easily settle underneath his headfin. 

Mipha laughed lightly, “it seems like not so long ago, I was the one helping you swim.” Sidon did remember that, he’d had been extremely timid when it came to swimming on his own. Especially, when it came to swimming up waterfalls, but he had needed to grow out of that. Her reminder caused a wave of nostalgia to pass over him. Once his sister was secured, Sidon dove beneath the water. He swam slower than usual to accommodate his sister, Yona swam behind him just to be safe. 

The main concern was getting up the waterfalls that led to the center of the domain. After he made it up the waterfall, Yona parted ways with them, to distract the elders from noticing Mipha’s presence before Sidon could get to his father. Sidon, himself, was grateful that Mipha’s scales blended with his own. It made it easier for her to remain hidden under his headfin. 

He made it to his father’s throne room without anyone really noticing, but he hesitated when it came to entering. Mipha patted him on the neck, reminding him of the task at hand. He took a deep breath and then entered the throne room, Muzu huffed at his sudden entry, but his father looked concerned. 

He didn’t wait for any questions, “father, I have to show you something that I came across when I first investigated Vah Ruta.” Then, before his could lose his courage, aiding Mipha in stepping down on the platform in front of his father’s throne. There was a moment of silence, before his father fell forward on his hands to get a closer look at his sister.

“Mipha?” His father asked, Muzu was sputtering in the background. Sidon felt out of place watching the moment between the two. It was only a matter of time before his father would realize that his sister was blind now. 

“Father, I’m so glad you’ve been well. As much as I would love to see how the domain has changed over the years, I have a feeling that the other champions will need my assistance.” Sidon was surprised how quickly she got to the point, but they had all heard the news about the other Divine Beasts. Sidon watched from the sidelines as his sister presented he concerns to his father, and addressed the idea of traveling to Hateno to meet with the other champions. 

When presented with the concern of who Mipha would travel, Sidon quickly offered to go himself. He had gone to Hateno Village before, so he already knew the best way to travel to Link’s home. With very few Zora traveling outside of the domain in the past 100 year, there were very few Zora that knew how to travel outside the domain. Aside, from those outside the domain already. Muzu, of course, had his thoughts on Sidon leaving, especially noting that he’d withheld the fact that he’d found Mipha.

“Muzu, I was in no condition to travel to the domain until now. Sidon did what he thought was right to get Yona’s help to care for me until I was ready to return home.” Mipha’s tone left no room for argument. Muzu opened his mouth to argue, but closed it when King Dorephan reached down a large hand to his sister.

“As much as I don’t wish to see you go, I know that this is something you will not budge on, much like when I was against you becoming the pilot for Vah Ruta. I ask that you both return home safe.” Sidon assured that they would both be careful, but he couldn’t help but feel like an afterthought to the conversation. No, it was completely understandable their father’s attention would mostly be on Mipha, especially considering the circumstances. 

Revali knew exactly what was happening. It was the same thing he had seen happen to Link, whenever he visited Rito Village before defeating the Calamity. After much deliberation and Revali admitting that he was exactly who Teba thought he was, they decided to fly to Link’s house in Hateno. Revali could make the flight himself, he was there when Link had bought the dingy old home. Not that Teba knew that. He didn’t want to think about his old bow, mounted on the wall, its wood brittle with age and carrying darkened stains from his own blood. Mipha and Urbosa’s weapons had held up the best over the years. 

So he allowed the fact that he wouldn’t be traveling alone while flying across Hyrule, that wasn’t the problem. He was quite looking forward to stretching out his wings. The problem was Tulin, not that he was entirely opposed to the child joining them, even if it would slow them down. It was the idea that Teba dared to weaponize his child in an attempt to keep him from flying off, much like the many residents of Hyrule had learned that they could coerce their children to convince Link to stick around. Because Link was horribly weak to children. 

It was him, Teba, Kass, and Tulin making the trip to Hateno. Revali had a hunch that Kass knew far more than he let on, he had seen how much he knew about the shrines from Link’s adventure. He had many things to say about Link following the sound of music whenever he heard it. Much as Revali loathed to admit, he was the one who was slowing their travels, not Tulin. He hadn’t quite fully shaken off the weight the seemed to weigh down his wings after waking, though the younger Rito was quite helpful in the gusts of wind he stirred up. 

They had decent headway to the Outskirt Stable just north of the Great Plateau on the first day. Kass started playing his accordion soon after, Teba had bought beds for them, one of which Tulin jump on and promptly fell asleep. Revali, himself, felt the ache of exhaustion in his wings. He found himself drawn to the supplies that they had brought along for the trip, and he decided he may as well make them something to eat. Not that he had ever been much of a cook, he had seen Link make meals enough to have some idea of how to cook. 

“I wasn’t aware you knew how to cook,” Teba started as he rejoined them. Revali huffed, he wouldn’t say he was great, but it would at least be edible. Teba chuckled as if he knew exactly what he’d been thinking, “Saki doesn’t trust me enough to cook on my own. She always says, just because it's edible, doesn’t make it a good meal.” Revali snorted at that, no wonder she got along well with Link. 

The travelers were drawn to gossip and barter with them, Kass’ music drawing them in with a good mood. Revali recognized the man who seemed to constantly appear at every stable when Link was traveling, Beetle. Revali was almost tempted to see if he could find one of the bugs of his namesake, to see what the man would trade for it… Link was a terrible influence. He wasn’t dead anymore, so there was no need to relieve is boredom by assisting Link with mindless tasks. He also had the task at hand, even if it didn’t require too much effort. 

The evening went by faster than Revali expected, and soon he found himself falling asleep on one of the stable beds. He soon realized that Teba had bought him one of the softer beds, a sneaky play, but one he appreciated nonetheless. He woke early off instinct alone, before the others, likely off a habit of somehow knowing when Link was awake. Rito had no need for horses, but he almost wondered if one of Link’s many horses was at this stable, he unfortunately knew all of them. They had all had the luxury to witness the hero nearly get trampled by a horse twice his size. 

He did not make it far before spotting Link’s obnoxiously large horse, Turnip, grazing nearby. Along with the horse that was the spitting image of the Princess’ horse, and another one of Link’s horses. The odds of three of Link’s horses being at the stables at the same time was highly unusual. He was tempted to fly to a higher perch to get a better view of the travelers at the stable, but he eyes caught a familiar blue that only had its namesake tied to the royal family. 

He casually strutted up to where the Princess was standing, taking in the fact that her hair was significantly shorter. He almost wondered how much Link had changed after the Calamity, he really couldn’t imagine anyone managing to wrangle the hero into cutting his hair. Shorter hair suited Princess Zelda quite well, though, she had always given him the impression of a caged bird. Now she seemed quite free, likely some of that was influenced by Link.

Revali waited till she turned away from her current task, he almost wondered how long it would take her to recognize him. Even if he was wearing his Champion’s sash, that Saki had graciously cleaned from the grime that had gotten on it over the years. It was surprising how well the fabric had maintained itself, his armor had to be replaced completely. Fixing it would have taken days, but at least some of the leather could likely be salvaged for other uses. 

Her gaze passed him for a moment before she froze in her tracks and turned to look at him as if she couldn’t quite believe what she was seeing. Revali cocked a brow at her, he knew he looked different with some of his plumage being bleached white, but he didn’t look that different. That was almost the thing that bothered him the most, Rito didn’t live for 100s of year. She didn’t look too different besides her hair and a small scar that cut through her brow. “Is something the matter, Princess? You’re going to catch flies if you gawk for too long.”

That caused her to thaw from her shock, she closed her mouth and stepped forward hesitantly. “Revali?”

“And who else would I be?” He responded a bit snidely. He wasn’t certain if she knew that their spirits had followed Link through his adventure, or if that he had changed from who he was before dying. Dying as it turned out was quite the mellowing experience, being stuck as the only guide to a freshly awakened amnesiac who had little to no survival instincts was also mellowing in an anxiety inducing way. Thank the gods for the citizens of Hyrule who weaponized their children to get Link to sit still for longer than two minutes. “I’m glad to see you’re safe despite everything.” He added, entirely sincere. 

Zelda teared up a bit and Revali almost prepared himself to be tackled into a hug, however, their meeting was interrupted by Urbosa. “Well, it seems that I really wasn’t the only one stuck in this situation.” Urbosa commented with a smile. Revali had to look up to get a good look at her, and it seems like she too had been stricken by whitening hair. She was wearing her champion’s cloth as a shawl rather than a skirt, while her skirt was replaced with black patterned fabric.

“Seems like we’ve both seen better days.” Revali remarked back, causing the Urbosa to laugh. He hadn’t known the other champions to well prior to the calamity, but they certainly had the time to get to know each other when looking after Link.

Urbosa’s smile turned sharp, as if she were about to tell him something he was going to hate. “I may have informed the princess that we had our fair share of helping out Link after he freed our respective Divine Beasts.”

Revali frowned, because he knew exactly what she was implying. He was the first of the Link freed, and therefore the one who ‘suffered’ through Link the most. “Great.” He responded dryly. He didn’t regret steering Link towards Zora Domain, because at least Mipha would be able to help with his uncanny ability to get himself into danger. He may have had the luxury to witness Link punch the Zora prince in the gills and get kicked off a mountain by a lynel because of recommendation, but Mipha had more patience than he could ever hope to muster. 

His response got a chuckle out of both of them. Their conversation was sidelined when Tulin, emerged from the stable as a ball of energy. Revali almost envied the smaller Rito’s energy, Teba followed his son, looking rather exhausted. Tulin caught sight of Zelda quickly and almost tackled her in his excitement. The princess was overjoyed to see the young Rito, and Teba seemed quite relieved to see the princess doing well. If Revali had to guess, the older Rito likely treated her in much the same manner as he treated Link. Good, she needed better parental figures in her life.

Kass joined them shortly after, a knowing glint in his eye. “It seems that we all came up with the same idea, to find help from Hyrule’s hero in these strange times.” The way he spoke was almost poetic, and Revali wouldn’t be surprised if he was writing his own songs of Link’s adventures, rather than just continuing his master’s legacy. 

Another Gerudo joined them, who Revali took a moment to recognize as Riju. Much Like the Princess, the young Gerudo Chief had cut her hair short. She had also grown, which he supposed wasn’t too surprising, but still felt a little strange. He shook it off as the similar feeling he had gotten when he witnessed Rito Village for the first time after the calamity. The structure of his home remained much the same, but there were no longer familiar faces that wandered the skies that he called home. Only those who shared a resemblance to those he once knew. 

They all shared breakfast together, before deciding to set out together towards Hateno. They were all traveling there, and there was a high likelihood they would meet the other champions there. Revali was almost surprised that Link’s giant horse put up with Urbosa, but then again, he was the only horse Link had that suited the height of the Gerudo champion. Revali found himself flying lower than usual to answer the Princess’ many questions the best he could. It was strange, he never really talked to her much before. There was a strange companionship that between them, being living artifacts of a time lost to devastation. 

The merchant cart had taken Yunobo and Daruk to the Wetland Stables before they parted ways. Daruk had spent much of their travels sleeping in the back of the cart, but when they had briefly been threatened by a group of lizolfos, the old champion had swiftly sent the monsters running. Yunobo was speaking with another traveler about if it would be safer to take the route through central Hyrule or through the Wetlands to get to the Riverside Stable, while Daruk was entertaining the children at the stable by letting them climb him. 

The Wetlands route seemed to be the best option, guardians seemed to be reappearing in central Hyrule again. It was concerning news, but central Hyrule remained mostly untraveled, so the travelers didn’t see it as too much of a concern. Yunobo knew that Link went out of his way to make sure that the guardians that roamed nearby settlements were defeated. Though it was true that the Blood Moons had become infrequent after the defeat of the Calamity, the fact that monsters were appearing and reviving despite a blood moon not happening in months was concerning.

What was more concerning was Link’s lack of visits. Usually he attempted to visit Goron City once a month, but he hadn’t visited recently. The shrine near the city made it easy for him to travel and, though it wasn’t uncommon for him to spend weeks on end away from civilization, it was the fact that he hadn’t even come by for supplies that was concerning. Even the other Gorons at home were concerned, when he mentioned his plans to visit Link on his trip away from home, he’d been loaded with supplies for him. It was rare for elder Goron to stay away from their home rolling grounds, but the stable wasn’t too far from Death Mountain. 

He wandered closer to the river to look at the ruins of the castle that Zelda had greatly insisted was best left abandoned, rebuilding the castle could wait till other parts of Hyrule were rebuilt. He always felt a little guilty that she wasn’t able to return to the place she’d once called home, but he also knew that she’d spent 100 years trapped in what was once her home, keeping a monster locked within its walls. Knowing Link, he was doing his best to fix the small problems that were showing up recently, at least before they became bigger problems. 

Yunobo was about to walk back to the stable when he noticed a red figure in the water, one that he easily recognized as Sidon. The prince seemed to be taking a break from swimming in the river, Yunobo wondered if he was traveling to find Link too. “H-Hey! Prince Sidon!” He called out, waving his arm, even though he would be hard to miss. The Prince startled for a moment, but when he realized who was calling, his face brightened. Yunobo was slightly surprised that Sidon didn’t dive into the water so he could get enough speed to jump to the shore, but rather he paddled slowly to the shoreline. 

He hoped the Zora hadn’t run into trouble on his way down to Zora Domain, but he quickly realized why he was moving slower when he saw a smaller Zora clinging to his back. Zora, like many other inhabitants of Hyrule could look quite a deal different from one another, unlike Goron who only really looked different based on age. Most other inhabitants of Hyrule weren’t all family like the Gorons, born from the stone of the mountain, so Yunobo couldn’t just assume that the Zora with the Prince was family based on appearance. 

Sidon shook Yunobo’s hand with his usual exuberance, “It's good to see you again, friend! I saw that Vah Rudania had stirred, don’t tell me you’re in the same predicament?” Yunobo blinked at his question, before realizing that the Zora he hadn’t met was likely the champion of Vah Ruta. 

“Oh, gosh, I thought Vah Rudania was the only one, goro.” Yunobo responded in surprise, though he stopped himself from speaking further when a soft, gentle voice spoke up.

“Is Daruk alright?” The smaller Zora spoke up, and Yunobo nodded before realizing rather quickly that she was blind. 

“He’s at the stable playing with the kids, goro. He’s been sleeping a lot on the way here, but he seems fine… I thought going to ask Link for help would be the best thing to do, goro.” He felt a little sheepish admitting it, but Sidon shook his head slightly.

“No, that may be the best course of action. I believe we will likely meet with the other champions as well as Teba and Riju at the very least, at Hateno. If Link doesn’t have answers, perhaps Princess Zelda will… I neither have answers, then at least they are aware that their old friends are alive.” Yunobo hadn’t really stopped to consider that the pilots of the Divine Beasts were once friends of Link and Zelda. Zelda never really spoke of the past, and Link had few memories of that time, so it was easy to forget that they were both over 100 years old. 

Yunobo blinked when he quickly realized that he hadn’t introduced himself to Vah Ruta’s champion. “Ah, I’m Yunobo, I helped Link corner Vah Rudania at the top of Death Mountain when it was under the Calamity’s control.”

The smaller Zora seemed surprised, “and I am Sidon’s older sister, Mipha. May I ask how you managed to help Link tame Rudania?” Yunobo felt a little sad finding out that Mipha was Sidon’s sister, he couldn’t imagine what it would be like to loose one of his little brother that tended to trail after him in the recent months. 

“Oh, I didn’t do much,” Yunobo said scratching his cheek, “if old Bluto’s back hadn’t been acting up so much, he would have taken me up the mountain to use the cannons to stop Rudania from angering the mountain so much, goro.”

“Cannons?” Sidon questioned wearily, and in hindsight he could understand why. Link tended to take rather explosive measures during battle.

“Oh, well, actually bombs can’t survive that far up the mountain because of the heat, goro. Bluto found that I was the best option for firing at Rudania, since I’ve got my shield, goro.” 

“I beg your pardon? Link shot you out of a cannon?” Sidon sounded rather alarmed by the idea, but it was part of his routine from a young age. Even if he didn’t like traveling up the mountain, and potentially crossing paths with monsters. He was the most effective means of getting Rudania to stop testing Death Mountain’s temper.

“Yes?” Yunobo answered meekly.

Sidon sighed, but his sister laughed lightly, “Daruk must be quite happy to know you’re a chip of the old block.” It was a little strange hearing a Zora use Goron phrases, but he couldn’t help being slightly embarrassed to be compared to such a great warrior. 

“I wouldn’t say it’s anything that impres-” Yunobo started out of embarrassment, before being interrupted by a strong slap on the back.

Daruk laughed, “I couldn’t be more impressed to see that the Gorons are still going strong after the past 100 years.” Mipha chuckled like she had completely expected Daruk so respond that way. Then Daruk leaned down slightly and his voice lowered, “I got to say, it's good to see you again, princess.”

Sidon carefully lowered his sister to the ground and Mipha stepped forward to grab on of Daruk’s large hand, “I’m glad you are well too Daruk, though I wish we both knew more behind our strange circumstances.”

The four of them decided to set out the rest of the way to Hateno together. Partially to minimize the difficulties that they could encounter on the way there. Sidon and Yunobo found themselves sharing stories of the various things Link had done during their travels and his plethora of visits. The champions didn’t speak too much on how they knew Link, likely because the two had hinted at his loss of memories. They did get a few stories of Princess Zelda, that Yunobo found hard to wrap his head around. Sure, she could be a little formal at times, but the Princess could be one of Link’s worst supporters at times. 

Revali and Urbosa found themselves meeting Mipha and Daruk right as they were approaching Hateno. They were taking a break from their travels in the lowlands beneath the village, before travelling the rest of the way, but Revali had a feeling that Zelda was hesitant about Link’s current location. It was a little strange for them all to be together again, and not being dead. There was a degree of awkwardness between the four of them, partially because they didn’t know much about their circumstances, but they’d also haunted the remaining champion for an entire year together. It was strange, but in a way comforting to be together again. 

Zelda had busied herself with catching up with the others that had help Link siege the Divine Beasts, while the four were left with too many and too little words. He knew better by now not to start by saying something, he still tended to be too antagonistic with his words. He did notice that they all seemed to have their problems despite being alive again. Much like Link did not have the best vision or hearing on one side.

His main concern was the fact that Mipha was very obviously blind now. She was sitting in one of Daruk’s large hands, and he was frankly surprised she wasn’t being smothered by how wild his beard was now. Daruk was hard to determine what was plaguing him, because Gorons were horrifically sturdy, but he doubted he would move as quickly as he once did, unless he was rolling down Death Mountain itself. Urbosa was having slight difficulty with hearing that he’d noticed on the way, nothing he hadn’t already figured out how to mitigate with Link, but he suspected her scarring had left her with a similar numbness to him. 

Revali sighted, if words weren’t going to happen, he could at least do something. He stood a sauntered his way over to Mipha and Daruk, attempting to be as inconspicuous as possible, as if they didn’t know him better by now. He made certain to click his talons against the ground so Mipha could hear him, “Princess, I highly doubt you’ll figure out adjusting to all this,” he made an exaggerated gesture to all of them. Though she couldn’t see, she could at least hear the movement of his feathers, “without being coddled by others constantly.” He extended a hand to her, she huffed out a laugh and cautiously took it.

He held her hand until she fully stood, Daruk curiously hovering behind her. He quickly turned his back to Mipha, while guiding her hand to the back of his sash. Zora and Rito luckily had similar builds, so he could help her gain some degree of confidence navigating on her own without literally ‘hand holding’ her. Mipha laughed, “I’m not certain what I was expecting, but thank you nonetheless, Revali.” Urbosa laughed slightly when he led the Zora Princess to where she was sitting.

“I suppose we all need time to adjust,” Urbosa finally spoke, and that was an understatement. The Gerudo had taken Mipha’s hand in her own and was allowing the Princess to map out the new scars on them. Knowing the Zora, she would be cataloging all their new scars away in the back of her mind, much like she did with Link. They would all most certainly be receiving medicine for any aches and pains they had from her, they had all listened to her lecture Link about medicine enough. 

Daruk spoke next, in a surprisingly nervous tone. “I don’t know if you all have realized, but I have my own protection back…” Revali knew he had his gale back two, it felt like a breeze that tickled his feathers, urging him to soar. He had a hunch that Link had lost the connection to their powers after defeating the calamity, when they finally could rest at easy knowing that Hyrule wasn’t plagued by their failures. Feeling Mipha return her grip to his sash grounded him for the moment. “Do you think we should help the little guy out again?”

Wasn’t that the question, it was easier to answer when they were dead. Their gift were no use to anyone but the living, and currently they were living. “No,” Revali snipped, much to Daruk’s shock. “At the very least, we shouldn’t be to hasty to lend our abilities to Link, without knowing more about…” he hesitated on the right words to finish the sentence, but they all hung in the air around them.

Urbosa hummed, “Revali makes somewhat of a good point, even if Link could benefit from our help again, it's not as if we’re as constrained as before. If Hyrule needs her champions again, then we should all prepare ourselves to fight in our own way.” Even if Mipha could no longer fight with the same ease that she used to be able to, her healing would be invaluable for anyone involved in protecting Hyrule.

The Zora in questioned hummed, “I don’t think it would be best for me to lend my grace to Link, at least not in the same manner as before.” Which was true, they shouldn’t encourage Link to be too reckless. Between her Grace and Daruk’s Protection, Link had gotten himself in and out of some horrible situations. He still things he was right about Link not opening that chest in the basement of the Lomei Labyrinth, that was very clearly a trap. Diamond circlet be damned. 

“Perhaps you could find a way to teach Link to actually use your grace.” Revali had little faith in the possibility, but who knows what would happen. At least his comment got a chuckle out of the others, lessening the awkward air around them. There were too many unknowns about their situation and about Link’s, but at least with the Princess she would eventually find some answers. He knew she was holding something back, much like she had 100 years ago, in her endless frustration in trying to seek her own power. 

Eventually, they all set out to Hateno, which you would think wouldn’t lead them to too much trouble. Obviously, nothing could remain peaceful for too long in Hyrule. Revali and Teba were the first to hear the scuffle coming from the woods below the ridge the village was on, just slightly off the main path leading to the village. Revali’s eyes quickly caught a familiar color of blue amongst the green canopy, and without hesitation he was off. 

He heard the others shout after him and knew that Teba would likely take off after him if it wasn’t for his rambunctious son he had to keep from the battle. He shot a few arrows as he plunged down into the foliage of the trees, beneath the canopy he could see the monsters better. He could also see that Link was aiding a band of warriors, he could question that later. He used his speed from his descent to help push himself towards the group, though he couldn’t fire off many arrows this close to the ground, he could at least a better look over the battlefield. 

As he quickly flew towards the group, he could tell that Link had noticed his approach, despite his focus on the surrounding monsters. So, Revali decided to pull a small prank on the hero, he flew in close to Link’s head. Quickly getting behind the hero and smirking to himself as Link, turned to attack him, only to hesitate mid-swing. At least, Revali had his bow ready to strike down the monster behind the hero. With Link now knowing who was helping him, he used his gale to get back above the trees and rain down arrows on the monsters. 

When the battle finally cleared, Revali landed near a stream just below a lone house on the outskirts of Hateno. He was brushing the leaves from his feathers when Link emerged from the forest with his companions. He was almost concerned that Link was caught in one of his many memories, judging by his blank expression. “Don’t tell my you’ve gotten rusty after 100 years.” He remarked using a snide voice, he was referring to needing help in fighting, even if he knew that Link was anything but rusty by the time he’d been ready to defeat the calamity. He could see a few of Link’s companions’ expression tense with various emotions at his tone, but he continued with Link’s face became less blank.

“I heard you were lent my bow, I’d like that back sooner rather than later.” He doubted his bow was in any condition to be used, he’d see how worn it was. But if he had it, he could hopefully get help in replicating it to his standards. Link’s expression brightened as he seemed to absorb the reality of who was standing in front of him, in the flesh. It was a little strange to think that Link would be happy to see him, he had constantly complained about Revali informing that his gale was ready at the worst times. At least he didn’t shout it for the entirety of Hyrule to hear like Daruk did.

Revali didn’t have much time to prepare himself for Link to start running at him, he certainly didn’t have the time to take off before Link crashed into him, sending them both into the stream. Revali sputtered as he rose to get his head out of the water, even if his feathers were slightly waterproof did not mean that he was a water fowl. Link laughed brightly as Revali stood and mostly gave him a disgruntled glare when he snapped his beak in distaste. He took one look at the cheerful hero and decided to flick some of the water running off his wings at him. 

“I’ll have you know that the others are waiting for you at your house.” He was a little disgruntled about the unexpected plunge, but he made certain to add extra emphasis at the mention of others. Link stopped laughing, casting a glance at his house above the ridge before looking back at him with a slightly lost but hopeful expression. Revali nodded and watched as Link scrambled to get up and explain the situation to the people he was traveling with. They were an eclectic bunch, but Revali couldn’t recall seeing their faces among the many people Link had helped in Hyrule. 

Link looked back to him when one of his companions gestured to him. Link looked shocked that he hadn’t taken off, “well, don’t you want to take the quick way up?” He questioned, kneeling down with his wings spread. The hero didn’t need much explanation to get exactly what he meant, pulling his paraglider from his back. Revali didn’t wait much longer before calling the winds to his aid and soaring into the air, Link followed slower with only his paraglider keeping him in the air. Well, he could actually give Link more of a push in the air now, flying forward he hooked on of his feet on the front of the glider before releasing it to help him move forward faster. Revali could already tell the others were gathering at Link’s house, waiting for him to return, most likely. Well, at least he was bringing one of the people they’d all been looking for to them.