#mallowtalk

Gerudo courtship rituals, based on their culture in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, would likely emphasize strength, independence, and the warrior lifestyle of the Gerudo people. Here are some possible courtship rituals, reflecting the Gerudo's unique way of life:

1. Trial of Strength or Combat Skills

Since the Gerudo value physical prowess, a courtship ritual might involve a display of strength or combat skills. A Gerudo woman may challenge a potential partner to a sparring match, where skill and tenacity are more important than victory. Winning is less important than proving one's resolve and competence.

Variation: Instead of a fight, a partner could undergo a series of challenges or trials in the desert, such as surviving a sandstorm or retrieving a rare desert flower or artifact, demonstrating their worthiness.

2. Gift of the Desert

Gerudo may court by exchanging meaningful gifts related to their desert homeland. A Gerudo woman might gift her suitor a beautifully crafted weapon, armor, or accessory made from materials native to the desert. Similarly, a suitor could present rare items that show an understanding of Gerudo culture, such as jewelry adorned with desert gemstones or rare flowers from the area.

Symbolism: The exchange of these gifts represents the importance of resilience, resourcefulness, and an appreciation for Gerudo heritage.

3. The Watchful Guardian

In Gerudo culture, protection of loved ones and allies is crucial. A potential partner may prove themselves by silently watching over the person they wish to court during a period of time, such as when the Gerudo woman is engaged in a task or undertaking a journey. This "guardianship" is a non-intrusive way of showing dedication, respect, and reliability, without overt intervention unless absolutely necessary.

4. Ritual Dance of the Gerudo

Dance is part of Gerudo culture, as seen in their traditional practices. A courtship ritual might include a dance performed by the Gerudo woman and the potential partner. The dance would likely be one of power and grace, symbolizing unity and the synchronization of two individuals. It could take place under the stars or around a ceremonial fire, deepening the bond between the pair.

5. Sharing Water and Food

In the harsh desert, water is sacred, and the sharing of water could be a significant courtship gesture. A suitor might offer water or a carefully prepared meal as a sign of care and respect. This act would symbolize a willingness to provide and ensure the well-being of the other, showing dedication in a fundamental, life-sustaining way.

6. Mutual Tattoos or Marks

The Gerudo may have a tradition of marking a bond with symbolic tattoos or temporary body art. During courtship, both individuals could receive tattoos or apply traditional Gerudo body paint, symbolizing their connection. The designs might include desert imagery, such as cacti, the sun, or sandstorms, representing endurance, life, and unity.

7. Proving One’s Knowledge of the Gerudo Way

As a proud and independent people, the Gerudo value understanding of their customs. A potential partner could be tested on their knowledge of Gerudo traditions, such as their laws, dances, language, and history. Passing this "test" would show not only dedication but also deep respect for Gerudo culture.

8. The Desert Flower Ritual

The Gerudo may have a sacred ritual surrounding the desert lotus or another rare flower that only blooms under specific conditions. Finding such a flower and presenting it to a Gerudo warrior would be a powerful sign of devotion. The partner would have to navigate the harsh desert, proving their endurance and ability to understand the Gerudo’s desert life.

9. Rite of Shared Silence

A Gerudo courtship might involve a period of silent companionship where two individuals work, travel, or rest together in silence. The ability to be comfortable without constant conversation would reflect mutual understanding and trust, which is valued highly in their society.

These rituals would align with the Gerudo’s values of strength, independence, loyalty, and respect, while also incorporating the significance of their desert environment and warrior spirit.

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Legend of Zelda Echoes of Wisdom

It was so very good. So very, very good.

Anyone who hasn't gotten it yet, get it.

So listening to the Thunder Saga of Epic The Musical and... whoever animated Zeus to look like Ganondorf is criminal. He looks so good. That voice? That purr? That arrogance and divinity? Mmm ...

The Gerudo may have unique glass-making techniques involving lightning magic to make fulgurite. I mean, those who have lightning magic. Because you can melt sand by running electricity through it. My guess would be that they could do this by holding a gold rod or some sort of golden shaping tools to form the sand as it melts.

In fact… It might even be part of how Gerudo lightning mages learn to control their lightning magic.

Also, what sort of minerals are in the sand of the Gerudo Desert, do you think? Because depending on if the sand contains metals, then the kind would result in various colors. Like, iron, manganese, chromium oxide, cobalt, copper, nickel, ect. Though, even if it doesn't, those things could easily be added.

I also wouldn't be surprised if one skilled in infusion magic could use sand with iron impurities & amber grains to make glass that's had the symbolic connection that iron has to durability & amber's symbolic connection to preservation magically enhanced so as to create those special bottles that adventurers all go so crazy for. Ya know, the ones that don't break & their contents never spoil?

And, considering how rare those bottles seem to be, I wouldn't be surprised if it could make quite the mint.

Im gunna admit! I did research into making glass out of desert sand, and apparently desert sand is TERRIBLE for making glass! Apparently the sand is too fine to make good glass? Which... Thats normal desert sand. It could be that the Gerudo Desert has larger, courser sand.

Other than that, though, I have no idea what minerals could be in the sand. Depending what's in the sand would have an outcome on color and strength/design on the glass, me thinks.

So I work in a call center, and for some reason, the AC is not controlled by the building itself. Its elsewhere where they control the temperature. So even though its still nice out, like 70s, this building is ICE cold.

I normally run hot. I am a very warm marshymallow. I am fluffy and built like a bear.

And this cold pierces me.

I need to buy a heater. I need gloves. I already am wearing sweats and a jacket, which is unheard of for me, but I need more. I even have Hot Hands! (those little packets that warm up when exposed to air) My nose feels like ice and my hands like icicles.

... Maybe I need a big Gerudo man to shove my cold hands against...

Trying to make Adria from my TOTK Isekai thing, but this was the best thing I could find. Is she a self insert? Yes. Am I trying to make it realistic (well, as much as one could make a shameless self insert romance isekai can). Trying to find better... If you want to make your own, link will be below to the Picrew!