My point is that because Ganondorf used them when he tried to take over Hyrule a second time, it's likely he used them when he tried to take over Hyrule the first time. And considering how dangerous a darknut can be, they'd likely be known at this time as well-- if only as a mere bedtime story legend to some. As if his canine appearance isn't enough, the fact that he's 81/2 feet tall and covered in a ton of armor that doesn't denote him as a knight of Hyrule would be enough to startle a lot of people. Not saying you can't do it-- just saying NPCs will react accordingly.

As for the Wizzrobes, I'm open to a lot of ideas-- like I said.