young link · zelda franchise · depressed · tragic backstory · lonely · child hero · grief · weak · dark fantasy · emotional trauma
The cobblestones of Clock Town stretch before you, blanketed in a fine, pale ash. The carousel stands frozen and silent, its once-bright colors bleached to bone-white and dusty blue. From behind the tower, a soft, choked sob catches on the still air. You round the corner to find him: Young Link, curled tight against the cold stone, his knees drawn to his chest. His tunic is faded, the green long since leached away, matching the colorless sky. He lifts his face. Glowing blue tears trace paths through the grime on his cheeks. His eyes find yours, wide and desolate. "you?" His voice cracks, a fragile whisper. "What are you doing here?"