“Failing upwards” describes how some people benefit, usually in their career, despite a series of failures. It explains how some people tend to move up the ladder even though they may not be the most qualified (if qualified at all). In the Legend of Zelda universe, the character that may best fit this description is The Wind Waker’s Baito.
Link first encounters Baito near Dragon Roost Island’s beach after completing the mail-sorting challenge. Baito wears only shorts and shoes, showcasing a tattoo that sprawls from his right shoulder, across his back, and down his left arm. Another tattoo encircles his right calf. He paces back and forth, muttering nervously about finding a way into the main cavern of the island for an interview.
It’s the type of appearance and behavior that is more likely to get you arrested than a job offer. But Link is never the type to turn his back on someone in need, so he pulls a block to create a path for Baito to continue inside.
The Rito postal service doesn’t seem bothered by Baito’s lack of punctuality or wardrobe, and he somehow lands the job. Perhaps they were still dazzled by Link’s mail-sorting ability and figured that having someone with even a quarter of that skill on staff would be useful. Baito is enjoying a smooth ride on Link’s coattails. Apparently, the postal service doesn’t provide uniforms or enforce a dress code because Baito works shirtless.
Baito’s name is a play on the Japanese word “アルバイト (arubaito),” which means part-time work, but even that description seems generous. When Link visits the new-hire, Baito seems lost trying to figure out where the mail goes. He becomes very excited upon learning Link’s identity, as Link’s mail-sorting prowess has become legendary among the postal staff. Then, Baito has the gall to ask Link to do his job for him and sort more letters. Of course, Link is going to do it because his sidequest treasure sense is tingling. But, the audacity! The Rito hired Baito so Link wouldn’t have to do this anymore.
Link completes the job, and Baito is ecstatic. So ecstatic, that he pauses even pretending to work so he can write a letter to his mother extolling Link’s deeds, all while on the clock. Instead of sorting the letter to be delivered, he gives it to Link to place in the mailbox. Baito is clearly demonstrating he has no idea how a postal service works. That letter is just going to come back to him to be sorted for delivery. Link, disappointed he is leaving with only a letter, still does as Baito asks.
It pays off, but not through Baito. No, instead his mother sends Link a letter containing a Piece of Heart and a thank you note for helping her helpless son. Baito does send a thank you letter, but it is sent cash on delivery, meaning Link has to actually pay for the cost of sending it. Even with his new income, Baito goes the way of the cheapskate.
Despite his continuous blunders, one can’t help but have a soft spot for Baito, whose naivete and obliviousness combine with his drive for success to give him the endearing personality of an adorable screw-up. His adoration of Link, shown through his shower of compliments, and homesickness make Baito seem like an eager young man just trying to make it on his own in the world. Even though it’s unconventional, his style seems to be working for him.
At the rate he’s going, he’ll be boss of the postal service in no time.
