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• The Chain (and others) with a disabled traveling companion •
Summary: The chronic pain is hitting me badly today and I can hardly walk, so I’m doing little headcanons to make myself feel better.
Warnings: this won’t cover in depth or all types of disabilities, just in general things and the ones that I can think of off of the top of my head. Quite a bit of hurt/comfort/whumpy/fluffy stuff. There of course is mention of medical items and different illnesses, but other than that, safe for everyone.
Author’s Notes: Written by Mishwanders. Happy Disability Pride Month 💕
Time
The most attentive about it in the group, even more so if he sees you struggling beside him.
He’s the one who literally has the time of your medications, walking time/distance down - it’s all memorized in his head. Could probably look up at the sky and back to you and just know, ya know?
If you need someone to lean on - he’s your guy, he’s built like a tree that will stay rooted in place in the middle of a dangerous storm so long as you need him.
Also has one of the softest laps, so if you need a seat that ain’t the ground, by all means, have at it. He will keep his arm around you waist to make sure you don’t fall over. Feel free to lean back if you need to, he won’t let you down.
Twilight
He’s just as attentive as Time about it. Constantly offering Epona for you to ride so you don’t have to walk as long and even offers his own back if you’d rather ride piggyback/on top of wolfie (if you are as small as Four that is).
Can also lean on him for support if Time is busy. He’s built like an Ox, so you don’t have to worry about being too heavy for him.
Got anxiety or have other mental illness issues? He picks up on that quickly, even more so in wolfie form. He will come to your side or will practically lay across your lap to get your attention and allow you to pet him to get your mind off of things.Will even let you wear his pelt if it makes you feel better. Truly the warmest anxiety blanket there is.
Have epilepsy? He’s quick to catch that too in wolfie form and alert the others that something is happening so they can help him tend to you. He won’t leave your side at all until he knows your okay.
Wild
Big help in the food area - will make sure you’ve eaten so you can take your meds and will ensure he gives you a little extra so you have something for later.
Have a feeding tube? That’s new to him, but if you’re willing to teach him the ins and outs of it, he’s willing to help you with that to ensure the food is made and blended thoroughly to go through.
He pays attention to any food allergies you have to make sure he doesn’t give you something you’re allergic to and so there’s no cross contamination.
Got panic attacks? He gets that, they all get that, but especially him. He’ll sit beside you and hold your hand if you need it, be a shoulder for you to cry on and assure you that things will be okay.
Four
Got pulled into their world without your cane(s)? Smithy is ON IT! Probably will make it double as a weapon as well.
If he’s split into the colors, you know they’re all bickering on how exactly it should look and how to give it to you.
He makes sure everything is exactly to your needs and specifications. Not too heavy and not too light - absolutely perfect.
He’s proud that he’s able to help you out by making anything you could ever need
Legend
Have something you need (rest, meds, a ride, etc.) but too afraid to say something about it? Legend will speak up for you. It’s no problem to him because he wants you to be okay.
He will also be one of the ones to help get unwanted attention off of you and would be willing to fight someone over it.
Need something to double as a weapon (magical cane?) - he’s got something for that.
Will only allow you to have it and will sneak it in to ya so the others don’t pester him about it (but they’ll all know - that’s just how they are).
Hyrule
He may not be able to make all of your problems magically disappear, but he will try to help ease some of the pain if he can do so.
Got the healing potions locked and loaded babes.
Will also be the one to stay up with you if you’re feeling extra ill on the harder nights/days, especially if the others are asleep, taking the nights watch, or having to attend to other situations (baddies, getting food/firewood, etc.)
Like the others, he wants to make sure you’re okay and is willing to do what it takes to ensure that.
Warriors
Just like Legend, your #1 boy for distracting others away from you - a true human shield.
Someone staring rudely at you because you have tubes, colostomy bag, a cane, using a wheelchair, or any other needs? Wars is stepping in between and staring right back at them, giving them the same attitude 100x over.
He’ll always ask if you’re alright, trying to gauge the emotional situation after that. He knows what it’s like to have another stare rudely at the scars on his hand and he wants to make sure you’re okay.
Will also be your human shield if you need to change something out but are unable to get anywhere in a more private location. As a matter of fact - they all would, but especially him.
Sky
Biggest softy for ya, really empathizes a lot with your disability and wants to do what he can to try and help ease any issues that occur during the travel.
If Twilights pelt is too heavy - he’s 100% allowing you to wrap yourself in his sail cloth if you need it for comfort and warmth.
Four also gets his expertise in wood carving for your cane and he puts little designs in it that Four will in-lay with metal after.
Will put his stuff together with yours if you need extra padding on the hard ground to keep from hurting. Any extra clothes of his he’ll pitch in his bag and allow you to use it for any leg/hip pain you may have.
Wind
Little guy can’t do too much, but you know what he can do? Distract you.
Very good at trying to keep your mind busy if the pain becomes to much.
You may have heard a few of the same stories twice, but he puts a lot of expression into it to try and get you to laugh.
Will also sit there and listen to you talk about things you like to help keep your mind off of the pain.
Bonus characters because I feel like it -
Sage
Do you need a wheel chair? Would you like to not need to walk long miles? DO I HAVE THE BOY FOR YOU -
Now granted, that wheelchair may come with a super powered rocket - but truly it’s the thought that counts first, and then your safety second. Don’t be afraid to tell him how you need it to be, he’ll make sure it’s done correctly the second time around.
Just like Wild, super attentive about the food and any allergies you might have.
If you have any phantom pains from an amputated limb (or even nerve damage), he’s willing to be there by your side and provide you with whatever comfort you need.
Fierce Deity
Protective af over you, very watchful. He’s got a keen sense of awareness when he knows there’s something wrong and you need immediate attention even before you as or look at him.
Good chance he will just carry you everywhere he goes - he’s so big he may even just strap you to his back if you’re small enough to do so.
The definition of “have you eaten?”. Will make sure you well fed and able to continue on the journey a little longer before getting to a rest stop.
Curl up in his lap if you’re able to do so, he will hold you there all night and be a big warm bed away from the ground.
Dark Link (aka Dinkster)
Will take any form for you to ride on and keep off of your legs.
Does not know what medicine is but is willing to learn so he can provide it for you when needed.
Ensures that you have time to rest while he scouts out the hero’s and drops more baddies where he desires.
Won’t even ask what you need, will just do it for you because he can already sense it.
Malon
She has a little comfy pillow made just for you when you ride around with her on the cart to castle town.
Will go mom mode if you try to lift a milk crate that’s too heavy for you.
She always makes sure to pack an extra chair for ya so you have somewhere to rest while out in square selling Lon Lon milk.
Also has a box of other items specifically for ya and your needs, just in case you need them!
Ravio
I would like for this man to haggle the price down on my insurance stuff. I think he’d be great at it.
He would also haggle another merchant down on items you need - seriously, let him do it, he’s got this!
Will always keep an eye out for better things to replace your old supplies.
All around, happy to be of service to you and have your service in return!
Epona
You may be thinking “what’s a horse gonna do?” And I’m here to tell ya, horses are some of the greatest animals on earth for this kind of thing.
Epona can sense something is different there and that you need extra care. Sweet baby is gonna do her best not to rock you too much when you ride on her back.
You know how wolfie might lay on your lap? Epona is gonna do the same thing, placing her head on your lap to rest and to comfort you.
She will neigh when she thinks somethings wrong, trying to get Twilight or Times attention to help you. 1000/10 best baby girl.
The chronic pain do be paining. It has caused me to wonder how the idiots™️ would respond to reader having a flare up.
Side note: please get your pain checked out if you get hurt! Don’t be me! Life isn’t meant to hurt.
-VS
I'm sorry to hear about your pain, I am familiar with the issue. But you are very right. Pain is not something to ignore.
Four
He may not understand personally but he goes out of his way to make sure you have whatever helps you most
He tries to make something to help. If the pain is in your joints he tries to make braces to help you.
If he can't make something to help he offers to take over your chores/ duties to give you a break
Will go asking Wild about ideas on how to help
Hyrule
The concept confuses him at first. You hurt- all the time? And that's- normal?
He grew up in a forest with faeries - pain was fleeting
He asks about it, gathering details, potential triggers, and what helps.
Hyrule tries to use his powers to help you, but I don't know if this would help actually.
If his powers help he's ready to use them in an instant
If they don't, he'll try to make sure you get rest and will ask for help getting you what you need if he can't do it himself.
Legend
He's a grump- but he makes sure to he less of a grump when he knows you're having a flare up.
Legend tries to see if any of his magic objects can help- they don't but he really does try.
Starts carrying an extra blanket so you have something to rest on if you need it. He tries not to make a deal of it, just quietly offering it to you when needed.
If anyone gives you shot about it he will fight them
Sky
He'll make you any mobility aids that might help (may inlist Four if they need wheels)
Sky isn't super familiar with chronic pain but he knows it's a thing people have. He also asks about how to help
Sky will let you use him as a pillow when you rest, he wants you to be comfortable
He tries to keep your favorite snacks and drinks on hand. He believes in treating yourself kindly especially when in discomfort
Time
He'll start pestering you about staying hydrated and fed during your flare-ups because he knows that sometimes people will stop eating/ drinking enough when they hurt
Offers you the oild they use on horse joints for pain (this can help depending on the issue)
Time will carry you at the drop of a hat, all you have to do is ask
He dosen’t necessarily understand the cause, but he does try to help any way he can
Twilight
He is quick to bring you hot packs or ice packs. If those don't help he'll try something else
Another one to carry you if you like
When you have a particularly bad flare-up he will come see you as Wolfie
You have free right to use Epona as a mode of transport (unless stated makes it worse, please don't hurt yourself)
Twi will tell you stories while you rest to try to distract you
Warriors
He also is familiar with the issue that chronic pain presents, wether from personal experience or from army experience is up to you
He's got a no nonsense approach to it: as in if you give any indication you're having a flarup or other issues caused by chronic pain He's having you rest
He will not let you push yourself past your limits unless you are in a life or death battle and even then he does his damndest to keep you from passing them.
If it helps he's happy to give you a massage, if not he will respect that
Warriors keeps emergencies medication, heat packs, ice packs, and snacks on him at all times. He'll happily share.
Wild
I figure he has chronic pain/ frequent issues because he was blown up and you don't just walk away without issues
He may not have the same pain but he is familiar with the concept and the way a body will often choose to punish you if you ignore the little things
Wild will find out what causes your flare-ups and try to help minimize that stimuli
Probably knows some plant medicine, and will try to use that to help you.
If the pain is in your joints or walking makes it worse he'll insist on more frequent breaks. (If you can stand be carried or riding Epona he'll implement that.)
Wild tries to help you find stretches to relieve the pain (fully understands that this is not foolproof and can make things worse)
Wind
He just starts doing for you what he does for his grandmother and those on his pirate crew.
He'll keep an eye on you and offer to help you try unconventional remedies
Has at least 4 home remedies- they may or may not work but he certainly tries
Will demand you go take a break if you try to push through a flare up (if you refuse he gets Warriors and Time to help him)
• The Chain (and others) with a disabled traveling companion •
Summary: The chronic pain is hitting me badly today and I can hardly walk, so I’m doing little headcanons to make myself feel better.
Warnings: this won’t cover in depth or all types of disabilities, just in general things and the ones that I can think of off of the top of my head. Quite a bit of hurt/comfort/whumpy/fluffy stuff. There of course is mention of medical items and different illnesses, but other than that, safe for everyone.
Author’s Notes: Written by Mishwanders. Happy Disability Pride Month 💕
Time
The most attentive about it in the group, even more so if he sees you struggling beside him.
He’s the one who literally has the time of your medications, walking time/distance down - it’s all memorized in his head. Could probably look up at the sky and back to you and just know, ya know?
If you need someone to lean on - he’s your guy, he’s built like a tree that will stay rooted in place in the middle of a dangerous storm so long as you need him.
Also has one of the softest laps, so if you need a seat that ain’t the ground, by all means, have at it. He will keep his arm around you waist to make sure you don’t fall over. Feel free to lean back if you need to, he won’t let you down.
Twilight
He’s just as attentive as Time about it. Constantly offering Epona for you to ride so you don’t have to walk as long and even offers his own back if you’d rather ride piggyback/on top of wolfie (if you are as small as Four that is).
Can also lean on him for support if Time is busy. He’s built like an Ox, so you don’t have to worry about being too heavy for him.
Got anxiety or have other mental illness issues? He picks up on that quickly, even more so in wolfie form. He will come to your side or will practically lay across your lap to get your attention and allow you to pet him to get your mind off of things.Will even let you wear his pelt if it makes you feel better. Truly the warmest anxiety blanket there is.
Have epilepsy? He’s quick to catch that too in wolfie form and alert the others that something is happening so they can help him tend to you. He won’t leave your side at all until he knows your okay.
Wild
Big help in the food area - will make sure you’ve eaten so you can take your meds and will ensure he gives you a little extra so you have something for later.
Have a feeding tube? That’s new to him, but if you’re willing to teach him the ins and outs of it, he’s willing to help you with that to ensure the food is made and blended thoroughly to go through.
He pays attention to any food allergies you have to make sure he doesn’t give you something you’re allergic to and so there’s no cross contamination.
Got panic attacks? He gets that, they all get that, but especially him. He’ll sit beside you and hold your hand if you need it, be a shoulder for you to cry on and assure you that things will be okay.
Four
Got pulled into their world without your cane(s)? Smithy is ON IT! Probably will make it double as a weapon as well.
If he’s split into the colors, you know they’re all bickering on how exactly it should look and how to give it to you.
He makes sure everything is exactly to your needs and specifications. Not too heavy and not too light - absolutely perfect.
He’s proud that he’s able to help you out by making anything you could ever need
Legend
Have something you need (rest, meds, a ride, etc.) but too afraid to say something about it? Legend will speak up for you. It’s no problem to him because he wants you to be okay.
He will also be one of the ones to help get unwanted attention off of you and would be willing to fight someone over it.
Need something to double as a weapon (magical cane?) - he’s got something for that.
Will only allow you to have it and will sneak it in to ya so the others don’t pester him about it (but they’ll all know - that’s just how they are).
Hyrule
He may not be able to make all of your problems magically disappear, but he will try to help ease some of the pain if he can do so.
Got the healing potions locked and loaded babes.
Will also be the one to stay up with you if you’re feeling extra ill on the harder nights/days, especially if the others are asleep, taking the nights watch, or having to attend to other situations (baddies, getting food/firewood, etc.)
Like the others, he wants to make sure you’re okay and is willing to do what it takes to ensure that.
Warriors
Just like Legend, your #1 boy for distracting others away from you - a true human shield.
Someone staring rudely at you because you have tubes, colostomy bag, a cane, using a wheelchair, or any other needs? Wars is stepping in between and staring right back at them, giving them the same attitude 100x over.
He’ll always ask if you’re alright, trying to gauge the emotional situation after that. He knows what it’s like to have another stare rudely at the scars on his hand and he wants to make sure you’re okay.
Will also be your human shield if you need to change something out but are unable to get anywhere in a more private location. As a matter of fact - they all would, but especially him.
Sky
Biggest softy for ya, really empathizes a lot with your disability and wants to do what he can to try and help ease any issues that occur during the travel.
If Twilights pelt is too heavy - he’s 100% allowing you to wrap yourself in his sail cloth if you need it for comfort and warmth.
Four also gets his expertise in wood carving for your cane and he puts little designs in it that Four will in-lay with metal after.
Will put his stuff together with yours if you need extra padding on the hard ground to keep from hurting. Any extra clothes of his he’ll pitch in his bag and allow you to use it for any leg/hip pain you may have.
Wind
Little guy can’t do too much, but you know what he can do? Distract you.
Very good at trying to keep your mind busy if the pain becomes to much.
You may have heard a few of the same stories twice, but he puts a lot of expression into it to try and get you to laugh.
Will also sit there and listen to you talk about things you like to help keep your mind off of the pain.
Bonus characters because I feel like it -
Sage
Do you need a wheel chair? Would you like to not need to walk long miles? DO I HAVE THE BOY FOR YOU -
Now granted, that wheelchair may come with a super powered rocket - but truly it’s the thought that counts first, and then your safety second. Don’t be afraid to tell him how you need it to be, he’ll make sure it’s done correctly the second time around.
Just like Wild, super attentive about the food and any allergies you might have.
If you have any phantom pains from an amputated limb (or even nerve damage), he’s willing to be there by your side and provide you with whatever comfort you need.
Fierce Deity
Protective af over you, very watchful. He’s got a keen sense of awareness when he knows there’s something wrong and you need immediate attention even before you as or look at him.
Good chance he will just carry you everywhere he goes - he’s so big he may even just strap you to his back if you’re small enough to do so.
The definition of “have you eaten?”. Will make sure you well fed and able to continue on the journey a little longer before getting to a rest stop.
Curl up in his lap if you’re able to do so, he will hold you there all night and be a big warm bed away from the ground.
Dark Link (aka Dinkster)
Will take any form for you to ride on and keep off of your legs.
Does not know what medicine is but is willing to learn so he can provide it for you when needed.
Ensures that you have time to rest while he scouts out the hero’s and drops more baddies where he desires.
Won’t even ask what you need, will just do it for you because he can already sense it.
Malon
She has a little comfy pillow made just for you when you ride around with her on the cart to castle town.
Will go mom mode if you try to lift a milk crate that’s too heavy for you.
She always makes sure to pack an extra chair for ya so you have somewhere to rest while out in square selling Lon Lon milk.
Also has a box of other items specifically for ya and your needs, just in case you need them!
Ravio
I would like for this man to haggle the price down on my insurance stuff. I think he’d be great at it.
He would also haggle another merchant down on items you need - seriously, let him do it, he’s got this!
Will always keep an eye out for better things to replace your old supplies.
All around, happy to be of service to you and have your service in return!
Epona
You may be thinking “what’s a horse gonna do?” And I’m here to tell ya, horses are some of the greatest animals on earth for this kind of thing.
Epona can sense something is different there and that you need extra care. Sweet baby is gonna do her best not to rock you too much when you ride on her back.
You know how wolfie might lay on your lap? Epona is gonna do the same thing, placing her head on your lap to rest and to comfort you.
She will neigh when she thinks somethings wrong, trying to get Twilight or Times attention to help you. 1000/10 best baby girl.
Four the Love of a Nutcracker
Summary: One Christmas in Hyrule, a girl buys herself a nutcracker with four colors. Before she knows it, mysterious things begin to happen around her. What is the secret of her new “friend”? And who is the one-eyed man who seems to know him? A Linked Universe x Nutcracker crossover. Four x Reader pairing.
Genre: Fluff, Light Hurt/Comfort, Romance
Rating: G
AO3 Link, if you prefer: https://archiveofourown.org/works/52453850
A/N: Hello! Welcome to the first fic I've written in a very, very long time! It will be multi-chapter; it will not be finished by Christmas. I don't have a lot of time available for writing right now, so I'm aiming for spring on this. Rest assured: it will be finished eventually. Next, I recommend you read The Nutcracker and the Mouse King by E.T.A. Hoffman (available in the public domain). While my story will not closely follow its plot, it will be fun if you can spot the references. ;) Lastly, have a Happy and Merry Christmas!
---
It was just the sort of evening you had hoped for. A small blaze crackled away in the fireplace, casting a cheerful glow across the floor. Shadows danced in the corners the light couldn't reach, darting and swaying with each pop of a log. A red armchair had been placed in front of the fire. Though it was bit threadbare in places, it was far less noticeable now than it had been in broad daylight. In the flickering firelight, it looked positively plush, inviting you into its soft embrace.
Placing a book and a mug of tea on the small table beside it, you surveyed your handiwork a final time before sitting. You had spent the better part of the day decorating your cottage for Christmas, and you were ready to rest. It had been several months now since you had come here. This land was quite foreign, but you had grown to love it. The people in town were friendly, and the scenery was pretty. You wondered what it would have been like to grow up in this place.
As you had worked and saved, you dreamed of how you might decorate a home of your own. Flowers in the spring and summer. Pumpkins and harvest wreaths in the fall. Fragrant greenery in winter. Candles everywhere (you were fond of candles and lanterns). As you pondered each season, you found yourself wondering about holidays. What was celebrated here? Were festivals a common occurrence, or were they on rare occasions? You had been quite curious about the local traditions. It was gratifying to find that this land also celebrated Christmas and in a very similar way to your own.
Naturally, your excitement was unmatched when you were able to afford a home. A small cottage on the edge of town: nothing large or fancy. However, it was now your home. It was a place of your own—no more staying at the local inn and being awakened by the sound of boots tromping through the hallways.
Your home – it had such a lovely sound to it. You had been settled for several weeks now, but the thought still brought a smile to your face. You had a home, it was in time for Christmas, and you had a quiet evening ahead of you. Yes, this was a peace you had craved for some time.
You settled yourself in your armchair, tugging a blanket over your legs (a wool blanket, of course—you had no desire to go up in flames. You were appreciative that Anju had gifted it to you). Curling yourself up comfortably, you glanced at the mantelpiece. Fresh greenery lined the edge, punctuated by sprigs of red berries. In the center, a wooden clock ticked quietly, flanked on either side by a pair of candles. It was simple but festive.
Your prized decoration, though, was the figure you had just purchased today: a colorful nutcracker. He looked quite charming standing on your corner bookcase, like he belonged there all along. Your thoughts drifted back to this morning. It had been an unusual day...
…...
The wind came suddenly. The first white flakes of winter had just begun to lazily make their way downward. The breeze, barely a whisper until now, rushed forth with renewed energy like a host eagerly welcoming his guests. For their part, the flakes saw fit to curtsy and bow, swirling around in a gavotte before whisking away to new ballrooms. They did not stand on ceremony.
As these harbingers of change greeted each other, the poor souls left on the street scrambled to find shelter. While wind and snow were all very well, they did not create favorable conditions for shopping.
It was far preferable to be indoors watching them rather than outdoors experiencing their bite.
The shop bell jingled merrily as you practically blew inside, and the wooden door banged shut behind you. You blew on your gloved hands, trying to shake off the cold the same way you had shaken off the snow. Glancing up, you noticed two or or three other customers who had clearly just arrived. They must have had the same idea you did: this would be a good place to wait until things quieted outside. Really, you had been planning to stop anyway, so it was rather fortuitous.
The shop was not large, but it had been packed to the brim with goods. Typical everyday items like plates, brooms, and pails were in one section. Another was filled with food items, like mushrooms and fresh eggs. Yet another held sundries like thread, sewing needles, and sturdy fabrics. You took your time browsing. There were all sorts of things from utilitarian to decorative, and you had plenty of time to work with.
“Oh!” You exclaimed as your eyes lighted on a tall cabinet in the corner. It had been stocked with new merchandise for Christmas: tins full of spiced sweets and sugared plums beckoned you forward, enticing you with the promise of rich flavors. Miniature evergreens made of dyed feathers created a small forest which any bird would be pleased to call home. Twisted glass that looked all the world like candy hung from special hooks, catching the light in their ridges.
To the right of the cabinet sat a small table stacked with bringers of light. Tin lanterns of various heights stood next to each other like a group of revelers. Each had a different pattern punched in it: moons, flowers, simple diamond shapes. Through them all, light twinkled like private constellations. Alongside these, clusters of candles lay neatly bundled, ready to be distributed and burned. The sweet scent of berries emanated faintly from them, carrying with it misty memories and nostalgic dreams.
You could have spent hours gazing at such beautiful things. There truly was a marvelous array of goods. As your gaze leisurely traveled over the shelves once more, a small cluster of wooden figures caught your attention. Upon closer inspection, you noticed that each one was painted differently. Some appeared to be soldiers, brass buttons gleaming down the front of their uniforms. Others showed their trade, such as a baker with his bread or a carpenter holding a saw. Still others were dressed for an activity, holding fishing rods, climbing gear, or even instruments. These were nutcrackers.
As you pored over them, a particular one caught your attention. It was nestled away in the corner, almost completely hidden. Gently moving aside the figurines, you picked it up. It was shorter and smaller than the others. You might not have noticed it at all but for the colorful tunic he was wearing. It was divided equally into four colors: blue, green, red, and violet, each with gold paint mimicking embroidery. Your gaze traveled upward, and you noted that the tunic culminated in a green hood with a tassel on the end. A sword sporting a single jewel in its hilt was strapped onto the back. Above this, carved strands of blond hair hung almost to the shoulders, a headband holding it back. The level of detail was astonishing. Whoever made him had clearly put their heart into it.
The only thing that you found a bit odd was the expression: it looked almost frightened, like a startled deer. Still, no matter. You very much liked him.
As you traced your finger over the figure's tunic, you heard footsteps behind you. In your peripheral vision, a tall figure leaned close. “That one is...quite unique, isn't he?” A bit surprised, you turned fully to look at the stranger. A well-built man, quite tall, and with middling-length blond hair smiled down at you. You immediately noticed the strange markings on his face and the scar over his right eye. You would have remembered such a face.
“Indeed,” you replied. “I've never seen one like him. I...enjoy all his colors.”
The man's eyes sparkled. “Oho! You do, do you?”
He offered no further commentary or explanation. You were unsure how to respond, so you abruptly decided to change the topic.
''...are you new here in town?” You ventured. “I'm certain I haven't seen you .”
“Not exactly. My companions and I have visited before, though we rarely stay more than a few weeks.”
“I see. I'm somewhat new here myself, but not enough that I can't make recommendations. I suggest you visit the bakery before leaving. I'm told they have a new holiday bread that shouldn't be missed. Even if you're familiar with everything, new things add spice to life.” Truth be told, you hadn't tried that bread yourself. Finances were a bit tight after buying your house. But everything from that bakery was delicious, so you had no doubt that you were doing the man a favor. “Oh, and please let me know if I can otherwise be of help.”
“I'll keep that in mind.”
As you moved to put the colorful nutcracker back on the shelf, the man quickly interjected. “Oh, no, I think you should buy him now.”
“What?”
“You should buy him. Take him home, set him up somewhere. It would be...a good experience for him.”
“A...good experience?” You were confused.
“Indeed. Just now, you offered to help me. You could be of great help to me by getting this fellow here.”
...why was he so interested? His insistence was certainly strange. You started to wonder if you had been too friendly when speaking with him. Though town was generally safe, you still had a sense of self-preservation. You hoped you hadn't gotten involved with someone sketchy. But, the sensible part of you reasoned, would a dangerous person really be pushing for someone to buy a general-store nutcracker, of all things? It didn't make sense. He didn't do anything wrong or threatening; he was just pushy. It was more likely he was eccentric. Perhaps he was some sort of artisan that couldn't bear to see good work go unpurchased.
“You seem quite concerned with this,” you replied slowly. “Is it something you've worked with before?” That was vague enough. You should be able to determine something based on his reply.
The man's face remained neutral, though it almost seemed he was holding back laughter. “Indeed, it is something I have worked with before. Though I wouldn't call him my work.”
“What is your work, if I may ask?”
“In the past, I...” he chuckled. “Let's just say it involved time.”
Apparently, the man spoke in riddles. You wondered if the companions he mentioned dealt with this on a regular basis.
“Time...” The answer struck you. “Oh, like repairing clocks!” That would make sense. He would be able to discern quality woodworking, which would explain the pushiness.
His eyes twinkled. “Something like that.”
The man straightened. Something in his demeanor told you the conversation was ending. “If you need my assistance for anything, my friends and I are staying at the inn. Call me 'Time'. We may see each other in town again. ”
“And I really do advise you to buy him. You said yourself that new things can spice up your life. I guarantee that he will keep things interesting. But if you leave him now, he'll be gone in the blink of an eye.” With a friendly nod, he began to walk away.
You looked down again at the nutcracker. Just now, you had the distinct impression that he was glaring. You blinked. No, that couldn't be; the expression had not changed. It must simply be your own imagination, a passing fancy.
What a strange one the man with the scar had been. He had talked about this figure almost as if it was a real person. Perhaps that was the eccentricity of an artist.
You gazed thoughtfully at the decoration in your hands. Well, why not purchase him? You had budgeted for a few decorations, and he did catch your eye, after all. Carrying him firmly in your arms, you made your way to the front counter. Judging by the color of the sky, you'd be in here longer than you originally suspected. You might as well have a “friend” to spend it with.
….......
Returning to the present, you directed a glance at your “friend”.
“You're my first real guest, you know,” you said humorously. You had had visitors, of course, but each time had been brief. As of yet, no one had spent a whole evening in your company. Surely it wouldn't hurt to play a little and pretend he was a real visitor. “I'm sorry I can't offer you any food—you are a only decorative, after all. I would be a terrible host if I accidentally broke my guest's teeth on a nut.”
He looked a bit miffed at being called “decorative”, but he seemed relieved at your final sentence. (Of course, there was no way his expression could really have changed. This pretending business was rather fun, once you got down to it.)
“But,” you continued. “I can offer you a bit of entertainment.”
Picking up the book you had set out, you quickly flipped to the page at which you had stopped. This was one of your favorite stories. After briefly explaining the plot (you had to admit you felt a bit silly explaining it to an inanimate object), you began to read aloud.
The clock on the mantle ticked steadily and the fire crackled as your voice droned on. The occasional lilt and jump gave expression to the characters. It was a magical thing. Reading aloud made you feel so alive. You whiled away the evening in this pleasant manner, peeking up at your “guest” every once in a while. You must say, he did seem interested. You smiled slightly to yourself. What an imagination.
Directing a glance at the clock, you noted it was a bit earlier than you usually retired. Still, you had worn yourself out. It had been a long day, and all you wanted now was sleep. You carefully placed your book on the table beside you and carried your now-empty mug to the sink. Returning to your previous spot, you made quick work of banking the fire, making sure the coals would smolder through the night. While you could let it burn out, this had become a routine. Your mind had learned that as the fire slept, so could you.
You straightened up and stretched, taking one last look at your “guest”. As the firelight had dimmed, he had become more of a shadowy outline than anything else. Still, he cut a handsome figure. You smiled faintly. “We'll continue the story tomorrow. Thank you for your company. I'll see you in the morning.”
As you slowly trudged upstairs to your room, you blew out the few remaining candles. You didn't notice the faint light in the room behind you, gently emanating from the nutcracker.
(Chapter 1 of ??)
Linktober 2024 Masterlist (Possibly Late)
Day 1
Mirror
Day 2
Friend/Companion (WIP)
Day 3
Zelda (WIP)
Day 4
Night/Dark (WIP)
Day 5
Sacred (WIP)
Day 6
Fear/Horror (WIP)
Day 7
Royalty/Noble (WIP)
Day 8
Tunic (WIP)
Day 9
Secret/Mystery (WIP)
Day 10
Species/Race (WIP)
Day 11
Music/Dance (WIP)
Day 12
Favorite Game (WIP)
Day 13
Link (WIP)
Day 14
Fairy (WIP)
Day 15
Sword (WIP)
Day 16
Time (WIP)
Day 17
Dragons (WIP)
Day 18
Shopkeeper (WIP)
Day 19
Reward (WIP)
Day 20
Mask (WIP)
Day 21
Spirit (WIP)
Day 22
Favorite Character (WIP)
Day 23
Element (WIP)
Day 24
Deity (WIP)
Day 25
Ganon/Ganondorf (WIP)
Day 26
Echo (WIP)
Day 27
Rest/Respite (WIP)
Day 28
Bones (WIP)
Day 29
Deku (WIP)
Day 30
Mount (WIP)
Day 31
Free for All (WIP)
Linktober Shadow 2024 Writing
Day 1
Woods
Day 2
Malice/Gloom (WIP)
Day 3
Puppet Zelda (WIP)
Day 4
Ominous/Suspicious (WIP)
Day 5
Skull Kid (WIP)
Day 6
Fear/Horror (WIP)
Day 7
Dungeon/Temple (WIP)
Day 8
Lorule/Dark World (WIP)
Day 9
Secret/Mystery (WIP)
Day 10
Undead (WIP)
Day 11
Demise (WIP)
Day 12
Witch/Witches (WIP)
Day 13
Shadow/Dark Link
Day 14
Boss (WIP)
Day 15
Poisonous/Venomous (WIP)
Day 16
Labyrinth (WIP)
Day 17
Dragons (WIP)
Day 18
Majora (WIP)
Day 19
Ghirahim (WIP)
Day 20
Vaati (WIP)
Day 21
Poe/Spirit (WIP)
Day 22
Chasm/Rift (WIP)
Day 23
Twilight (WIP)
Day 24
Spectral/Astral (WIP)
Day 25
Ganon/Ganondorf (WIP)
Day 26
Hands (WIP)
Day 27
Volcanic (WIP)
Day 28
Bones (WIP)
Day 29
Beast/Creature (WIP)
Day 30
Final Boss (WIP)
Day 31
Free for All (WIP)