Aspects Astray (First Act)

by OchaBlue

Summary:

Having completed the many many many shrines, Link was told to go and claim his reward. What happens if it wouldn't come off. Link quickly decides he actually likes being a half Zonai, that's what. This is an AU for 'Aspects of a Hero' by Tashacee because I can't get these scenes out of my head and now it's become much bigger then I ever imagined. I have changed the name of this work as I think it is big enough to deserve its own. This work was once called 'Au Aspects of a hero'.

Notes:

• Inspired by Aspects of a Hero by Tashacee

Chapter 1: lost

Okay for context I picture Wild more as an adorable little gremlin getting in trouble all the time and a worse hoarder than a darn dragon. What if he was short like in the game, even while wearing the Hero's Aspect. what if that removed his scars. (head canon that he has horrible scars still like in Linked universe) and it's sort of a reward for doing so much. He didn't deserve to be in pain for the rest of his life. What if he knew Wolfie before meeting anyone else because he can summon Wolfie in botw with an Amibo. Hope you all enjoy these alternative scenes to Aspects of a Hero by Tashacee. tbh you really should go check out Tashacee’s actual fanfic first because they deserve it. I adore their writing even if they are edging all of us for the reveal of Wild being a real boy. Might write more as Tashacee does.
"blah" = verbally speaking
'blah' = signing

 

Link looked up from his cooking pot when Zelda returned from her day teaching the local children. He had funneled all his nerves into creating the soup that was currently filling their small home with the rich scent of deer and tomatoes. He hoped the food would make this easier.
She had stopped, completely frozen in the doorway. Her basket fell to the floor as she took in his new appearance. Big familiar blue eyes which took up most of his face, furry ears and an even furrier body only broken up by green Zonai armor.

The hauntingly familiar snout and ears and an even stranger outfit… It reminded her of both Rauru and Minaru but also the Ancient Hero.

"L-Link?... Is that you?"

He slowly nodded, raising his hands to sign. The last thing he wanted was to scare her. He couldn't imagine how that would go. If she screamed now…

'Yes! Can't get it off.'

Zelda stepped forward. Her fear dissipated like fog on a sunny day. This was her hero after all and he had brought her a new puzzle.

"Link, you look like a Zonai Knight. Something half Zonai anyhow."

'It was marked as the Ancient Hero's Aspect.'

"Hylia gave you this as a reward and you say you can't get it off?" Zelda had reached up curiously touching his cheeks and snout and long red hair. “That's awful!”

With a strange hummed growl, Link took a seat to let her explore as she pleased.

'Yes. Stuck. Can't. I've tried everything. All the little pieces come off but the aura doesn't.'

"Very strange. We'll have Purah take a look… but Link, your scars… they're gone."

Link nodded, staring at the table. She said these last words gently unsure if that was good or bad. All of them were gone… and He wasn't sure how to feel about it. After all, could he afford to lose all his history all over again… then again… He would never admit how he had cried in relief. How he had completely broken down on the marble flooring of the temple when the pain he hadn't realized he was in was... finally gone.

'There's no pain. No tugging. No tightness. I haven't felt this good… ever.' Link admitted feeling far too much at once.

Emotional pain, fear, loss and overwhelming relief.

"For now I'll write you a letter. Something with my seal. Maybe we could get you a tag to wear that will tell people who you are. I don't want people attacking you." That he hadn't considered and shakily nodded allowing her to fuss and accepting the letter she wrote. Reading it, Link found it proclaimed him as the Hero of Courage and protected under blah blah blah. The only important thing was the seal on the bottom.

'Maybe just tattoo me. Like a dog.' He grinned trying to soften his joke but it likely looked like a snarl.

"Don't tempt me… but I think a dog tag is enough. The royal seal. I'll have it made at once."

Chapter 2: Zoomies

Summary:

Rewrote this chapter as quickly as I could so you'll have to read it again people sorry
Link gets to meet all of the Chain at once. At night. Ops.

Link slipped out from their house enjoying the moonlit night around them.  It was dark but by now he was used to being able to see at night.  He hated to leave Zelda for no reason but with his new body came more deeper instincts. they wore on Link and if he didn't listen to his new natural urges he would just end up burned out, barely able to follow after his dearest friend.  It was far easier to just have a cat  nap (ha) in the school listening to Zelda’s sweet voice explaining new concepts to the children than to deal with that.

 

It had been months since he had finished all the shrines and now all he had left to do on his personal list was protecting Zelda (an forever ongoing goal) and filling the Purah pad with even more items and clothing.  Zelda held onto it for her safety but allowed him to put his goods in the device.  He pushed himself sprinting across the land.  It was natural for him to switch between four and two legs as needed, letting the wild energy push him further and further away from his home.

 

That was until the ground beneath him gave up.  Just disappeared like it was never there in the first place.  His howl echoed in the void unheard and lost for what felt like forever and also merely seconds at the same time. 

 

Link slammed bodily into the ground cracking his head open on several large rocks.

 

Slowly he sat up whining softly from how he had bitten his tongue. The forest around him was spinning and it took him quite a while to stand up and drink in the new scenery.  He had no idea where he was.  He hadn't felt like this since he was fresh from the Resurrection Shrine…  Maybe he was being prideful but he usual only needed a few seconds to figure out exactly were he was within Hyrule.

 

A loud yelp left him, the closest he could get to cursing with the aura.  That was what he had come to call it in his head.  The aura of another dead person hanging around him.  Only this one came with no story. No memories or expectation.  Another blank slate like he had been once… He had no purah pad. no Map.  Only a few warded pouches hung on his armor and he barely kept anything but the Master Sword on his person nowadays.  Just some trinkets and bobbles the children gave him.  Rocks. Little metal puzzles and of course Zelda’s personal seal on his collar.  

 

He shifted to check his things and making sure he had not somehow damaged or lost the Master Sword in his fall.

 

With a sigh of relief he headed into the forest.  As long as he had his sword he would probably be fine.  Water.  He needed to worry about that first.  Link focused on what he could hear and took mental note of the animal tracks he did find in the area. He pushed on for nearly an hour, got lost then found his tracks again.

 

Still no water.

 

He was almost about to give up for the night when he heard the familiar popping of a campfire in the distance.Curiously He stalked closer trying to figure out what he was dealing with… He had to be careful as he silently climbed up the closest tree, long nails digging into the wood for grip.  Link could see what looked like a dozen people all camped around a dying fire.

 

Only one Hylian stood alone with their bow watching over the group.

 

Link climbed across to the next tree trying to get an exact number of men and weapons. Was that lump a bag or another person? Should he go find a small hole to sleep in or attempt a friendly introduction now?  Maybe he could- an arrow hit his chest squarely only caught by his gold collar.  The protective runes of the Great Fairies blunted the attack only leaving a dent in the metal.

 

Link fell like a stone crashing with a yelp into the bushes down below and like an ant hill the men swarmed.

 

Stunned Link couldn't do much more than struggle out of the thorns.  A hand grabbed at him but he kicked it off with his heeled foot. There were yells behind him that weren't answered and Link yelped as something plunged into his side. He was bleeding and lost, more falling through the underbrush than running.  He had to get away.

 

There wasn't thought, only pain as whatever had pierced his side fell out and even more blood ran leaving a trail for his attackers to follow.This would have gone so so differently had he found just a few of them out and about during the day.  So very differently. He couldn't out run them.  Link could hear them.  They weren't normal.  Not like the Hylians he knew.  They seemed to have boundless energy and no fear of the dark and twisted. Link stifled his whining as he woke up, finding himself in a small hole.  It helped that he was so short and the cat in him made it easy to curl up into a ball in the mud. Where he was he wasn't exactly sure.  The Hylians had brought light, lanterns by the smell and he had pulled himself into a hole.  It smelt of rotting tree, a stump which was barely big enough to hide him.  He had promptly passed out but now something had awoken him... 

 

He wasn't safe.  

 

A deep growl left him as he pressed himself further inside the small hole.  Something- an animal.  He could smell it but couldn't hear it. After a few minutes he slowly relaxed again. The presence had left just as silently.  He was alone again and could lick his wounds.  He had to make some potions and hopefully heal… That had been his plan until the lanterns came back again and an older man's voice yelled through the forest.

 

"We won't hurt you!  Not unless you hurt us!  I think this was some misunderstanding!  If you come out we'll heal your wounds!"

 

Now he had to make a decision.  Great… 

 

Link allowed himself a few minutes to wallow in his misery.  Was he really going to go to the very same people who had hurt him?  He had no supplies, no water and he had no idea where he was… He rubbed his tears of pain away, forcing himself up. Zelda wouldn't be happy if he died in some unfamiliar forest.  He had to try.

 

He tripped feeling lightheaded and held his wound to stop the worst of the bleeding. Link made his way back refusing to sneak or hide.  The others would hear him coming this time.

 

"Over here!" A young boy's voice encouraged him, waving from the fire light.

 

He had just been about to relax and accept that this wasn't a trap but as soon as he entered the firelight the sound of swords were drawn.

 

Shit. Link stumbled backwards. He should have expected it.  Who reacts well to a strange cat-man to just wander into their camp?  These people had no idea who he was but it was alright! he could just pull out Zelda's letter. He hadn't had to use it in months and it had been pushed down under his knick-knacks and the rocks in his bag. He fumbled for it struggling with the small clasp around the letter one handed in his haste to open it for these strangers.  He couldn't afford to drop the letter now.  Attached to the center of his gold collar was the most current seal of the royal line. The crimson bird with the triforce covered in both mud and blood. Even so it shined in the fire light.

 

"Why are you wearing that seal."

 

If only he could answer. Instead he flicked the gold tag with his finger and offered the letter. 

 

Please, please understand. 

 

He had left muddy fingerprints on the letter but the seal would be recognizable by anyone within Hyrule. The oldest of the men took the letter looking it over far too quickly.  It made his stomach sink because there was no way he had actually read it.

 

"Can you speak?  It's okay.  Put your weapons away.  Wars!  Four.  Now.  You idiots." The Zonai just shook his head no, lifting his one free hand to slowly sign.

 

'No.  Only sign.'  The signs were simple but somehow even that sparked no recognition in the man’s eyes. Almost everyone knew sign.  Surely someone here… but his hopeful glances were left unanswered.  no one?... He didn't understand.

 

"Here.  Take these potions.  Sit down by the fire." Shakily Link accepted, sniffed the potions and then tossed them back. They were weak.  Watered down and cheap tasting but his wounds were slowly closing under his fingers.

 

"He has the master sword."  A voice broke the deafening silence around him and he focused on the man across the fire. Link's eyes widened taking in the man’s clouded eyes.  He was completely blind yet somehow knew Link had the Master Sword?… A quiet curious meow left him, asking a wordless question.  Now that he wasn't bleeding profusely all over the camp, he could focus on more than just his impending death. A young boy, maybe ten, was being held back by another much taller man.  His hand held over the kid's mouth to keep him quiet.

 

Another child with a multi-color tunic had sheathed his short sword but stood nearby like a guard staring him down. Furthest from the fire the man who had shot him was being comforted by another blonde with a wolf cowl and a pink haired man. Only the tips of the man's hair faded into a soft pink.

 

"I'm sorry we all got a big jumpy.  It's not the first time monsters have attacked us while we slept.  You're name is Link isn't it?"  The blind man pulled his attention back to him. Slowly Link nodded, surprised they somehow knew.  If they knew why had they shot him in the first place??

 

The man smiled, moving to stand and walk around to kneel beside him.  Slowly he drew- that was the Master Sword. The very same one that was on his back.  Link stared feeling more and more thrown off as he inspected the perfect blade.  The details of the handle and guard.  It was an exact match.  Young and new in a way he had never seen his Master Sword.

 

"I speak directly with the Master sword.  If you take her I'll hear what she says.  Please."

He held out the handle offering it to him like a proper knight. Link had gotten his own arm back after saving Zelda.  It wasn't until he touched the handle did he wonder if that might trip up this sword or something equally ridiculous.  This moment didn't need to be any more dramatic or awful.  He drew the sword far too interested now to worry about how his side still burned or if he would be killed for taking a weapon. He just wanted to see the blade itself.  It was incredibly light and fast.  As loyal and strong as ever, he could feel her quiet whisperings echoing the blind man's next words. She always sounded like a sword humming during an arch of it's swing not exactly words...

 

"Welcome Hero of the Wild and Tears."

 

Gently Link slid the new Master Sword back into it's sheath.  He then pulled out his own Master Sword. The poor thing had seen a millennia yet still glowed with the intense power his Zelda had pushed within it for ten thousand years. The other Heroes gasped cried out some crowding closer to see the healed damage.

 

"What happened to her!" Pinky exclaimed the loudest.

 

"W-what is-?" The blind one gently took the weapon, running his hands over the new and old metal… His expression slowly fell.

 

"S-she says she and Wild were damaged during an attack.  An incredible power broke her.  Ganondorf broke her.  Then she was put back together and healed by Zelda for ten thousand years." The silence between them was deafening.  Oh so gently Link took his Master Sword back from him.  He suddenly didn't want to be without a weapon in this camp.

 

"You must be exhausted."

 

The oldest had knelt down beside them.  His hand rested on Link's shoulder.

 

"There's so much to talk about tomorrow but right now just trust you are one of us and you are safe.  All of this was just a mistake.  Take my bedroll.  I'll take over watch.  Everyone try and get some sleep."

 

This was how he found himself in a strange padded bedroll and offered some dried meat before he was expected to sleep around… eight strangers.  He just had to run off alone this morning.  Zelda was never going to let him live this down.

Chapter 3: breakfast

Summary:

Leave it up to Wild to figure out food.

Link had curled up into a tight ball and actually slept through the night.  Healing potions were taxing on the body. They worked but only if you actually had the energy to heal.

He woke to a wooden stick bumping his leg and slowly sat up.  

It was still far too early.  After such an awful night one would think they would at least allow him to sleep in. The oldest had woken him from his seat by the fire. He was building their fire back up probably for breakfast.

"I want to explain some things before everyone else gets up.  How are you feeling?" Link considered the question and how to answer it.  

'So so.  I've felt worse.'  He signed slowly, nodding a yes in case that wasn't understood. 

"I'm sorry, we aren't familiar with your sign.  That's okay.  Hyrule and Twilight have different signs too.  They don't speak. It won't take us long to learn yours too."  The older man pointed each out in their bedrolls so he knew who he was talking about. 

Great.  He was stuck with eight strangers who couldn't understand him, two of each he also couldn't understand.  This just kept getting better and better.

"I know.  This is all too much.  I was at home when a portal opened up right in front of me and Legend there, fell out.  It was a mess.  We both assumed each other had caused it, some dark evil magic."

The pink haired man rolled over, sarcastically saluting them barely awake.

"Once we started talking we realized we were both chosen Heroes.  Both named Link possibly from different points of time.  This pattern has continued.  We all had to take nicknames as you can imagine, it gets pretty annoying nine people all called Link. I'm Time. That's Legend, Hyrule, Twilight, Wind, Warriors, Four and Sky.  It's good enough.  Is Wild an acceptable nickname for you?"

He nodded, signing his version of his new nickname.  Three fingers on his left hand in a W shape and swirling by his head like he was calling himself crazy.

 He glanced at the others as Time pointed them out. Wild… He had to get used to being called that.

Wild could tell many of them were pretending to be asleep at this point giving Time a chance to explain.

"Our only rule is that you don't have to answer any questions.  We may ask but you can say no as long as it doesn't affect the group.  We've been running into dangerous monsters quite often.  I just want us all to go home in one piece."

Wild nodded, shifting to search Time's expression.  Only now did he actually look at him as a person. He took in his tattoos and scars and tight lips and eyebrows. This man had earned his age.  Had fought his whole life for some sliver of peace. His tightness was likely pain related not any negative feelings.

"Is there anything I need to know that might affect our chain?"

This caused Wild to snort covering his face with his hands. Ridiculous.  Link's in a chain.  He shook his head before hesitating rethinking the question.

Where would he fall short? Where should he even begin…

He waved at Time and pulled his sheathed sword into his lap and pointed to it.

"Yesterday Sky said Fi broke.  That you were both damaged in the fight.  I assume those lines are where she broke."

Was that what they called the Master Sword? Wild nodded again mimicking something breaking.

"And Zelda, your Zelda somehow repaired it over ten thousand years.  That's true too?"

Again all he could do was nod.  He couldn't take it anymore and mimicked writing on paper.

"I didn't understand the letter you gave me at all.  I just recognized the seal."

Annoyed, Wild gestured for writing utensils once more.  He was demanding now, not asking.

"Alright alright." Time chuckled, nudging Wind awake

"I'm borrowing your journal.  Wild wants paper."

"Ugh?... morning?..." The boy rolled over onto his stomach. "Okay Time…"

Time returned with said book and a charcoal pencil for Wild.

His drawing skills were only slightly better than the children he taught but it was enough to draw the outline of a dragon with a familiar sword sticking out of her forehead. The royal seal and an arrow should be enough to tell Time that this dragon was his Zelda. 

By now the whole camp was slowly getting up and moving around.  Only Sky seemed to be still asleep, snoring into his pillow.

"I wanna see! What- oh that's a dragon isn't it!" Wind leaned bodily against Wild's back to see for himself.  It was nice.  Like the children who climbed all over him.

"W-what is… this is your Zelda?"

'Was my Zelda.'  He signed the name slowly. 'Hylian again.'

Of course they didn't understand most of what he signed but if they didn't try they would never learn!

"It explains the ten thousand years though.  Dragons are immortal right?"

"Yep!" Wind popped the P causing Wild to flick his ear at the close noise.

"So I guess we'll call her Dragon Zelda huh?"  Pinkie- Legend asked as the drawing was passed around.

'No! NO! No!'  Wild signed, then crossed his arms. Firmly No.

He could not allow that habit to form.  Instead he pulled the book back over drawing his best attempt at a Silent Princess by the dragon.

"Flower?  Is Flower okay? We all have Zelda's too.  It gets pretty confusing!"

'Close enough.'  He nodded in agreement.  At least Zelda wouldn't bite his head off for letting them generalize her name from her most recent trauma.

Wild found himself lost in thought until Four pulled out a pot to start cooking breakfast in front of him.

Why would they allow a child to cook?  And why was he building up the fire like that?... Wild stared and finally had to back away from the heat.  How could the boy stay so close to the raging inferno he was creating.  The poor pot was burning empty in the fire.  He worried his lip watching the smallest boy tossed in-what was that?  Eggs??

He couldn't stop himself from lifting up the pan high over Fours head taking it away.

"Hey! Excuse me? I'm making breakfast!"

The eggs had only just started to burn.  Wild thought he could save them and firmly shook his head down at the… He had thought four was the youngest but now that he spoke aloud Wild had to reconsider.

"Are you going to take over? I didn't want to cook anyhow."

Wild kicked enough dirt over the fire to calm it back down expertly flipped the scorched eggs and put them back on for a moment to cook the still runny side. 

'Yes.  I'll cook.  What were you trying to do?  Cook with the sun?'

His gestures at the sun must have been understood enough because Four actually laughed.

"I'm a blacksmith.  I'm used to working the coals. I've never been good at small controlled fires."

Okay then.  This was a very small adult.  Not a child.

Wild took the offered bowls dividing up the eggs equally between nine people.  Then he cooked down some greens he had collected yesterday in water and broke up some mushrooms for added flavor along with some spice he had been hoarding in his belt.  If only he had his supplies he could have done so much better.

"There's still rice from last night.  Do you want it?"

Four asked, offering a saved bowl of what looked like porridge.

What the fuck- 

Wild looked down at the mush and shook his head.

There was no saving that.  Or was there… 

Curiously he made patties of the mixture, deciding to try and make some rice cakes.  It would be better than whatever this was…

Wild’s gaze flicked from person to person as he waited on his greens to sweat down. He found himself staring at the tattoo on Twilight’s face. He was trying to place where he had seen that pattern before.  It was a very faded hook shape that traveled down his nose. Why was it… familiar?

Twilight met his gaze and stared back at Wild for a moment.  He came over slowly signing.

Wild had to take a moment to try and understand the new shapes.  

‘Hello, You - me - chopping.’  Wild offered an onion he would need next.  Everything was fine. The two were smiling, slowly signing together.  Twilight was teaching him how to sign 'burnt ass eggs'.

Everything was fine until Twilight leaned over to help him dump in the onion so they could sweat down properly in the stock.  Wild reached out instinctively holding onto Twilight's fur cowl. It sparked something in his memory. 

Twilight had to lean against him because of the awkward position and gave the cat-man a questioning look.  He found himself leaning down actually sniffing the man.  He smelt of home, animals and something else he couldn't claim to understand.  Familiar.

The moment had lasted too long and feeling unsure and scared Wild let him go trying to continue his nonchalant act with a pat on the man’s shoulder.  Still something in him felt strange. Like he had missed something important about the other man.  Like he knew him somehow.  It itched in his brain, confusing him.  

He had to let this go.  It wouldn't do to act strangely now.  Wild was very good at pushing down things like this.  Shoving the feelings so far down he actually forgot about them.

Wild began to feel better when the chain tasted his latest creation.  He had made it out of necessity but they were making the loudest noises of appreciation across the camp.  When was the last time they had had a good home cooked meal?  Four had actually called him a genius and thanked him for taking over.  

“You're going to take over as our cook right?”

‘No dishes. I'm not cleaning.’

 

 

Chapter 4: feelings... eww...

Summary:

Legend doesn't do feelings. Why do people keep expecting him to help?

Notes:

This is mostly done now, I'll just be posting random ideas when they come now! I hope you guys loved it!

"blah" = speaking
'blah' = signing

Wild trailed after his strange group as soon as the camp was picked up. It was a rather beautiful day, sunny and fresh with birds singing in the trees. He should go look for eggs. Warriors had cheerfully told him that this was his hyrule before taking the lead through the forests and avoiding the roads. Wild suspected that was for his own safety but no one had mentioned to him where they were going yet…

Wind had apparently decided Wild was his new best friend. He didn't hold back like the others, excitedly treating Wild like a furry jungle gym and talking enough for three people.
Wild loved it if he was being honest.

'Sign. Sign again.' Wild had begun to force the others to sign what they were saying, trying to learn by immersion. It wasn't the first time he had to restart from scratch. He could sign in three different languages and write in two. He could do this. If there was one thing he was good at, it was patterns. And bombs.

"Did you- have you ever talked? Do cat-people talk to each other like hylians?" Wind repeated. He signed just as quickly as he spoke. Link chuckled softly at endless questions.

'Yes. Yes. I can't. Zonai can speak like you.'

"So you're special! Okay is that the name of what you are?"

'Yes. Hylian and Zonai. You are Hylian.' He signed this slowly making sure to stress the names.

"Oh! Half cat-person!"

Fondly Wild huffed going off the animal trail to harvest some mushrooms. He should try and hunt later…

As he was climbing back up Wind reached out one of his grubby fingers out, booping Wild’s soft, very sensitive nose. Wild's ears tilted back and his face scrunched up. Wild shook the uncomfortable feeling away, catching Wind's hands in his own.

'No.'

"But it's so soft and-"

Twilight came to get them, the group had gotten too far ahead. He signed rapidly telling Wind off and the boy began to pout.

"Sorry Wild! Can you really smell better than us? Better than a bloodhound?"

Wild pushed past them with a nod. Twilight almost herded them, making them follow after the group faster.

'Yes I think so. It was painful and weird at first.'

Just before lunch Hyrule and Legend slowed down and the grumpiest of the heroes asked Twilight to make Wind go up front.

Wild walked with them taking note of how Legend kept his hand on Hyrule’s shoulder. He was quick to lower his gaze until the traveler was ready to actually talk. His signs were different compared to Twilights. Shorter and smaller like he was trying to whisper to only Wild.

"Hyrule is saying he is sorry for what happened. He shot you not once but twice. He wants to know if you're fully healed." Legend spoke for him, translating.

Wild slowly nodded looking down at his dented gold collar. Mostly unharmed.

'Yes. It was a good shot.'

"I say that was pretty dumb. You shouldn't have gotten caught Wild. Hyrule says he is sorry though. He is friends with many monsters and shouldn't have judged you just off your looks."

Wild lowered his gaze feeling embarrassed. He found himself trying to straighten his long red hair purring softly.

'We are good. Thankyou.' It was nice actually getting to talk with them. He had been worried they would hate him…

The rest of the day passed by in a blur. It seemed the Sailor had a mouth that matched his nickname. Between Wind and Twilight he knew more curses than actually useful signs.

"Oh yeah! Twilight has a wolf! I wonder which one of you has a sharper sense of smell!"

Wild stopped in his tracks staring at Twilight again. A wolf. That hooked pattern and… and he smelt so familiar?

He couldn't ignore it.

'I could smell the wolf. Does the wolf have that same pattern?' Wild asked as he touched his own forehead and nose. Twilight raised an eyebrow surprised and worried by the question.

"Hey yeah he does! I hadn't realized that Twi! Is that how he follows us?" Twilight signed rapidly but Wild could tell he was lying. Trying to cover up something… He would let it go. At least for the moment.

Camp was set up and dinner was a calm affair. He only made mushroom rice balls but the others sounded like they were in heaven.
It helped that he had been gathering all day as he walked. He wasn't used to cooking with ingredients that could go bad. The purah pad kept everything in peak condition… He wouldn't regret leaving home without it. Zelda was safer because she had it.

Legend took the first watch. The pink haired man seemed so grouchy about it as he offered his own sleeping bag to Wild. If he wanted it. Never mention it again.

It was only when the others had gone to sleep did he approach Twilight.

'Come with me. We will go for a walk.'

Twilight slowly nodded. Perhaps he understood Wild wasn't asking. The Rancher signed something Wild couldn't catch before leading them down to the river.

Finally hidden in a small bank the two faced each other.

'Where is Wolf? I know Wolf.'

'I am Wolf.'

They stood in silence staring at each other. Wild took hold of Twilight's shoulders trying to find a lie in his face. But no… he could see that familiar scar across his neck normally hidden behind his cowl… Those same blue-gray eyes reflecting the moon…

'Show me. I want to see you.'

Twilight nodded looking nervous, like Wild might attack him or something. The Rancher stepped back enough to transform and squeezed his necklace.
Wild only got to see it for a moment. It was a brilliant black crystal on a leather cord. He had never seen anything like it.

Wild watched the strange magic shatter and twist his brother into unnatural squares of black void.

He couldn't believe his eyes.

He would recognize that familiar dark fur and markings anywhere. Wild fell to his knees and shakily he reached out brushing the wolf's fuzzy cheek with his fingertips. A long pained whine left him. Real. Wolf was here! Real!

Wild slammed into the smaller body hugging him tightly into the wet sand. He didn't care. Wild let out more loud heart-broken whines. He couldn't control the fat tears dripping down into Twilight’s fur. How had he not recognized him sooner. The markings, the scent, even the way the man acted all screamed wolf.

The sound of a man approached and Wild only pulled back long enough to check who it was. Legend. He didn't wait to bury himself back into wolf fur. Legend's eyes followed Wild's tail which looked like it might dislocate from how hard it was wagging in the air.

"Wild. Are you okay? Wild. Wolfie."

Wild rolled over, laying down beside Twilight and nodded. He gave Legend a thumbs up.
His best friend transformed back into a hylian rapidly signing to the veteran for help.

"What's the problem then Twilight, can’t handle him cuddling you?"

This made Wild refocus. Did twilight not miss him too? Twilight shook his head no and continued his rushed signs.

"Fine. Fine. You'll explain to Four why I'm waking him up though."
Legend stomped off leaving them alone together for a moment.

Wild purred hoping to comfort his brother. Twilight gently rested his hand on Wild's head.
'It's okay. Legend is coming back.'

He nodded, pressing in closer and bunting his forehead against Twilight's shoulder.

After a minute the gruff man returned, tossing himself down into the sand beside them.

"Fuck it's wet down here- now what Twi? Start signing. Wild recognized you. You suspected he knew your secret and showed him just now. Idiot. You needed someone here to translate. Anyway- He can understand your body language Wild. You recognize Wolfie right? You've met him before somehow? So what did his body language say then…
Wild nodded rapidly, pressing forward to rub his nose into Twilight’s cowl as the two of them talked about him. Something about love and missing him.

"Ewww. Twilight just get over yourself. He isn't a baby. Wild, he doesn't know you. Twilight hadn't met you before yesterday."

His stomach twisted up sharply as he pulled back to search Twilight's expression.

"He says he still cares. He doesn't mind you being friendly. It's just going to take time for him to learn. Maybe it just hasn't happened for you yet, Twi. Time bullshit as always. Did Twilight teach you Wild?"

Wild nodded rapidly making the sign for food and then pretending to use his sword. How could this be? Had Twilight forgotten him or… maybe Legend was right and it just hasn't happened yet.

"Food? He taught you to eat? You must have been young. How long ago was this for you Wild?”

‘Eight years ago.’ Wild stared at the ground sadly as he answered. Maybe it was for the best that he got a chance to explain the truth before Twilight was forced to look after the blank slate he had been… They shared a look. Maybe they were surprised by his answer.

'Wolf. Let me see you.'

Twilight perked up and smiled.

“You want Wolfie? Try again?”

Wild nodded excitedly.

‘I will be calmer. Promise!’

This was how they used to talk anyhow. Before Wild had met any hylians or ghosts, Wolfie had been there for him. His tail was going nuts behind him as Twilight once more transformed.

Wild tried to hold still, give the wolf a chance to get used to him and his smell. After a moment of bouncing on his heels he completely rolled over and begged to play like they used too.

Don't be mad! Play! Missed you, leader. Excited!

Unsure! Happy. Excited! New friend!

He wasn't alone. After several minutes of playful wrestling and nipping, Wild melted into Twilight’s side feeling safer than he had in weeks… Maybe this was all worth it.

“Are you guys fucking done yet. I literally can't see anything. Some of us can't see in the dark.”

Chapter 5: milk and bread

Wild hummed (it sounded more like purring) as he looked over the battlefield.   Wild enjoyed the fight actually and had even collected a few new weapons mid-fight.  The others not so much. Everyone had gotten a few scratches and bruises.  They weren't used to such strong enemies. Wild tried not to make any assumptions. Apparently, these had been regular everyday monsters beefed up on this strange black blood.  He couldn't imagine fighting a silver armored Lynel infected like this.

Wild would normally make potions out of all these parts but without a way to keep them fresh and no lizards, it wasn't exactly worth getting his hands dirty.  Caves should be next on their list.  The group really did need some nice health potions.

 

"Hyrule says the portal is coming soon!”  Legend called for his mute successor. Wild tilted his head at them, surprised.  Hyrule could feel the portals?

 

"He doesn't get much warning most of the time, Wild.  One time though he could feel it for days.  It was driving us nuts waiting.”  Warriors explained working on beating a locked chest open.

 

'Yes. I can understand that.  I hate waiting for anything.’

 

Wild had picked up what little he actually had and helped time with his things too since he had been allowing Wild to use his sleeping bag.   Wild looked up at the strange swirling portal.  He couldn't say actually seeing it this time made things better.  He could understand why he had been tossed through it last time.  He may um… act first and think later as Zelda would say but even he would have refused to go through the purple swirling void of weird magic.  It felt like nothing he had ever felt before and if Wind had not come to take his hand wild might have refused to go through on principle even now.

 

“Come one wild!  If we don't go soon, it starts pulling us towards it.  It just makes it worse!”

 

Wild tried not to fidget too much.  He just shook his hands out as he followed the youngest of their party through.

The portal was rough.  Both Four and Hyrule were getting ill, and Legend didn't look much better.  Wild forced them to sit while the others began to make a temporary camp in this new world.

 

"This is my Hyrule."  Time said hacking down some of the bushes so they could sit. Tea and some sliced apples.  That would settle their stomachs.  He borrowed the sailor’s journal to draw out the only brand of milk he knew and honeycombs.  If he didn't ask, he would have no idea what the others were carrying after all.

 

"Is that?... Time, come look at this."  Warriors looked excited for some reason. Time looked down at the drawn bottle of milk first surprised and then incredibly happy.

 

"Is it really still going in your time? I can't believe it...  This is from my farm.  I just can't believe it…" Wild nodded firmly pointing to the picture.

 

'Biggest milk farm.  I love the farm in Hatano.'

 

"We'll be there soon.  Just about two hours of walking. You can have all the milk you want then."

Wild couldn't help but lick his chops at the promise.  He couldn't wait to spoil his brothers once he had access to an actual kitchen again.

 

The trip went by quickly, everyone was excited to rest and eat a proper meal again.  Time seemed content to talk about his wife forever.  Wind dropped the bomb that Legend was married to some guy named Ravio but the vet shot down all of Wild’s questioning meows and forbade anyone else from explaining.  That was okay.  Wind had found out shortly after that if he rubbed Wild’s short fur that he could super charge someone and promptly chose Legend as his victim.  Wild had almost fallen off the path laughing at the squeak the veteran had let out.

 

'I live with Zelda. Flower.'   He grinned at the shocked expressions around him.

 

"Zelda?  You! Ha!"

 

"Does that make you King??"  Wild sniggered and shook his head at Wind's silly question.

 

'My house. Hateno. She lives with me.'

 

"Really?  Why would she do that?  No offense.  Your cooking is great, but she could probably get that at the castle."  Legend asked with a frown.

 

'Castle broken.  Gone.' Nearly half the group stopped and stared at Wild.  He lowered his head. There was an uncomfortable burn in his chest. Was that... shame?  It coiled in his chest.  What would these accomplished heroes think of his many failures… He hadn't actually thought about that yet.

 

"She doesn't have a castle?  It's broken?" He nodded slowly, eyes glued to the ground.

 

"Alright then..."

 

“Flower is lucky you took her in then, isn't she?"  Leave it up to Wind to break the tension.

 

'Don't make her sound like some poor puppy.'  Wild fought a smile and accepted the boy's hand again. Wind laughed even if he only understood the sign for dog.

 

"Still! What's it like to live with a princess in a normal house?  My Zelda is a pirate so I imagine it would be sort of a mess and lots of cursing."  Wild shook his head and grinned as he remembered the many nights they had spent together. How could he even explain his feelings?  Or what it meant to him that she stayed.

 

'She makes my house a home.'

 

A farm came into view as soon as they exited the forest, Wild looked out over the fields and took in the location. It was hauntingly familiar. Wild stopped, caught up in the moment.

He knew these fields. He knew exactly where the ruins of this house were…

Off in the distance He could see the castle. The untouched, whole and perfect… it honestly didn’t look real to him.

 

His eyes saw the ruins, not the farm. Twilight waited on him but Wild couldn’t pull himself back to the present until he heard Time telling his wife about the cat-man who was also a Link. Twilight reached to take his hand to lead him through the gate.

“Malon knows I’m after Time, she’ll be all over you as soon as she realizes you’re after me.”

 

Wild meowed in question but was caught off as the red head caught him up in a tight hug.

 

“Is it true? My crest- the one I painted still exists even after ten thousand years?? Is it true!” Wild nodded, half hugging her. His chin rested on her shoulder, and he softly whined in question.

 

“Oh, Link told me- Time I mean. I just can’t believe it! The farm survives so long!”

 

Wild pulled back and shook his head. He held out his hand slowly mimicking pinching something and setting it down in a different place in his palm.

 

“It moves? Oh, is it a lovely place? Better than here?”

 

Wild nodded rapidly excited to be understood so quickly.

 

‘Water, big trees. Big house.’

 

“That’s the best news I’ve heard all week. Come in. Everyone! We should celebrate! Another Ten Thousand Years!”

 

Wild chuckled looking to time who seemed to be enjoying himself. He patted wilds shoulder leading him into his home and finding him a seat on their couch. Wild felt almost high off of the attention if he was being honest. Malon cooed over him as she passed out hot chocolate to everyone.

 

“Link got a chance to tell me. Are you really Twilight’s descendant?”

 

Slowly Wild nodded, aware that Four was sitting right next to him, listening.

 

‘Yes. I think so.’

 

“Does that mean you’re related?”

 

Wild thought about that, about how he had no idea about his own family… Zelda had apologized once, saying he had been secretive of his own family. All she knew was that his father was a knight who died in her father’s service. That link had been a ward of the state when he had shown up with the master sword at age twelve having already done all of his challenges.

 

‘I don’t know.’ He finally answered with a shrug.

 

“That’s okay. I think teaching is enough anyway. You’re family now.” Wild let out a shaky sigh and reached out to squeeze her hand in thanks.

 

‘You are too. Time talks about you more than himself.’

 

“I don’t doubt it.”

 

“You seem to understand him pretty well Malon.”

 

“It’s not that damn hard. L-Time was mute once too as a child. I got used to guessing. It’s all context anyway.”

 

Wild was soon brought to a bed and told to take it tonight. It was the only spare. He would have just gone to sleep then and there but Time’s groans of pain as he extracted himself from the armchair grated on him.

 

He snuck past his brothers to steal oil from the kitchen and firmly took Time’s hand. He dragged him towards the spare bedroom. He was tired of hearing it and now that they were in a safe spot Wild intended to fix the other man's back.

 

'Heal.  Lay down.'

 

"Heal?... I didn't know you could heal." Time slowly sat down looking unsure.

 

'Shirt off.  Lay down.'

At no point did Wild consider how this might look to an outsider. He gently pushed Time to lay down in the center of the bed. Time had been surprisingly agreeable until Wild climbed up to sit on his lower back. Time pushed to sit back up but let out a surprised noise as oiled hands began massaging.

 

“O-oh- Wild you- you don’t have to…” Time moaned as Wild found the first knots in his back. They seemed to be everywhere tight bundles of muscle bound up so harshly Wild was surprised the man could even stand let alone fight in plate armor. He worked the muscle until it finally gave up. He chose to ignore Time’s moans and cries of pain. The tenson needed to be released. Everywhere he moved there was more, and it just got worse. Wild had to shift Time’s arms to really get under his shoulder blades.

 

Again, Wild hadn’t considered how this would look.

 

The door opened and Malon, flushing, entered the bedroom. Wild barely wore anything on a good day and Time only half dressed-

 

“What are you two doing?”

 

“I-I think Wild is massaging my goddess damned soul- my back-” Wild only noticed now that tears ran down Time’s cheeks. He reached for his wife to hug her.

 

Ops. Wild slipped from the bed. Time had a lot to let out apparently and Wild took his time going to get water and the healer. By the time they had returned Time’s face was only a bit red. Wild couldn’t understand Hyrule’s signs but assumed it was a question.

 

“My back feels like a wet noodle.”

 

“It’s bruising up too.” Malon’s worried.

 

Wild pressed the jug of water into Time’s hands to force him to drink while Hyrule set to heal the bruised and flushed skin.

“Thank you Wild, hyrule, it… I feel so much better, even if it hurt. Where did you learn that?” Wild kept making him drink and answered.

 

‘The Gerudo. Sand. Desert.’

 

“Oh, the Gerudo? Signed like this.”

 

Time taught the new sign slowly. Wild liked to learn from him actually. The others often got annoyed or ran off before Wild felt he had memorized the word.

 

"Come on.  Mal help me get upstairs.  Goodnight you two."

'I'll massage you again if you fuck up your back.'  Wild sniggered as he threatened Time.  The man laughed on his way out the door.

 

Wild climbed into bed once he was alone… He tossed and turned confused as to why he couldn’t seem to sleep. Oh, for the love of- Wild grumbled and got up to go find Twilight. The man was half asleep at the table leaned over a piece of paper.

 

‘Wild. Why aren’t you sleeping?’

 

‘Can’t. Need you.’

 

Twilight smirked and playfully wiggled his eyebrows. He laughed and pushed a new piece of paper to Wild.

 

‘You write to Flower.’ Wild looked surprised at the order.

 

‘Why?’

 

‘We run into-’ A sign Wild had never seen before. ‘He takes-’ The same sign. ‘It will go to her.’

 

Alright then. Wild wasn’t about to waste time thinking about it. If Zelda could find some peace that would make him happy.

 

[Zelda,

First off, hello I’m Alive. I am well and happy enough. I know I’m an asshole, but I swear this time it’s not my fault. There was some sort of portal and I found myself in a different time. Weird right? Annoying honestly after everything we went through. I really, really miss you and the purah pad and my kitchen. Hopefully we’ll end up back home soon. I was told it happens. I’ll keep sending letters on the off chance they reach you.

Link.

PS I’m now called Wild, and your nickname is Flower. I wanted Flora but they don’t really understand me. I forgot to mention we’re a group of nine Hero’s all throughout time and we’re all called Link. I’ll explain more in my next letter. I’m tired and actually have a real bed waiting XOXOXO]

Chapter 6: drawing truths

Notes:

fun idea Wild tries his best to tell the chain anything about himself but it doesnt go to plan

When Wild came downstairs the next morning, he was greeted with a cup of coffee by Time and Malon. The two of them were up well before dawn.

“Good. Glad you are up. I-We got you something.” time grinned over his cup.

Wild glanced up from his own, meowing in question.

 

A leather journal slid across the table and Wild picked it up to inspect it. It was handmade with cow leather likely from this very farm.

Shakily he opened it, finding dozens of mismatched signatures of paper within all tied together with waxed string. Wild felt overwhelmed. He loved it so much.

Time stood to press a brand-new charcoal pencil into Wild’s hand next.

“I noticed drawing helps you communicate. Maybe this will help. I’m sending Warriors and Four into town today. They’ll pick up supplies for you. You need your own bedroll. Is there something else you want?”

 

Wild nodded excitedly signing for another pan. One with a lid.

 

“Sure. I think that will be easy to find.”

 

“Don’t be ridiculous he can have one of mine.” Malon squeezed Wild’s larger hand with a chuckle.

 

“Now do you know anything about farming?” Wild rumbled softly before shaking his head in response.

 

“Well, how about you work with Twilight on the horses. You can brush them. Feed them, right?”

 

‘I have horses! I take care of Zelda’s- Flower’s horse too.’ Wild nodded excitedly. Time grinned translating for his wife.

 

“Then finish your coffee. Looks like Twilight is awake.”

 

Twilight leaned over Wild as he gulped down his coffee. Once done Twi waved to Wild to follow him. The Rancher was used to this life apparently. The others weren’t joking about the nickname! Twilight and Wild signed and cooed at the horses. They were incredibly trained. Wild had never seen horses quite like these. Calm and lazy unless work was offered.

 

When they were finally done Wild leaned onto one of the horses nuzzling as he drew on his first page. He could actually show his brothers instead of relying completely on words.

 

Wild had drawn himself how he once looked as a hylian but it looked a bit like a gremlin and less like a real person. He had drawn himself too short, his left eye didn’t match his right and the scars covering more than half of his body didn’t help his case. He then drew his Zonai body just as badly.

 

Wild needed drawing lessons. This was pathetic.

 

Twilight laid on his own horse bareback. He leaned over to look at Wild’s drawings.

Wild felt a strange intense feeling in his chest. Like he suddenly wanted to hide his work. Weird. He had to shake it off, focus on his next work of art. This time he drew his Zelda. It was really nice actually. He put far too much work into making sure she actually looked good.

It would be worth it to be able to see her whenever he wanted on paper.

 

Wild and Twilight had to be dragged back to the house by Wind for breakfast. Even as he stuffed the egg pie into his face, Wild still drew. He purred soft little songs between bites.

 

“I’m glad you like it.” Time chuckled. The larger man took a moment to actually hug the smaller cat-man.

 

It wasn't until later that Wild tried to explain his drawings to someone.

 

He decided to start with Wind.  The boy seemed bored anyway. Wind’s sword flashed as he cut down some of the taller grass outside Time's home.

 

"What's this?  Oh, is that you!" Wind giggled as he pointed to the Zonai and Wild rumbled. He nodded happily. He pointed between the Zonai and himself.  Then he pointed to the Hylian and himself too.

 

"Huh?... Who's that?" Wild repeated his pointing trying to be slow and clear.

 

"You're not a Hylian- that is a Hylian right?  Oh, is it because you're half Hylian?" This was when Legend joined the conversation.  They almost seemed to ignore Wild as he shook his head only pondering over the puzzle.

 

"Wind I think if he wants to be seen as Hylian, we should just roll with it."

 

"Yeah! I don't care, Wild! You're one of us!" Wild let his head fall into his hands as Legend leaned in to tease him.

 

"Ah come on Wild, don't be shy now!"

 

Idiots. Simply idiots.

It didn’t seem to matter how he tried to explain, they now seemed determined to be inclusive and it spread like fire between the Chain. Shit. Welp that went terribly. He had to think of a new way to get them to understand he was cursed (or blessed depending on how one viewed it). That he hadn’t been born like this.

The only actually useful question anyone asked was from Hyrule.

‘What happened? Why scars on this one.’ Hyrule touched his own cheek as he signed. Right. Wild’s scars were gone thanks to the aura.

 

It was easy to remember how the eye glowed in the darkness of that awful day. How the light played on the shadowed guardian. The beam that shot out towards two Hylian figures, one holding the unbroken Master Sword the other in a muddy long white dress.

Hey! He could actually see improvement in his shading skills. Proudly wild returned to show Hyrule his drawing.

‘What is that?’

‘Guardian. Bad. Shoot long, very long distance.’

Time gently took the journal and looked over the drawing. Wild added arrows to the glowing eyes and underbody to show where to attack.

“Show this to everyone. Is this the worst thing you’ve fought?”

Wild shook his head no, signing something both of them understood. Despite ten thousand years Ganondorf’s signed name never changed.

‘Lynel and Ganondorf are the worst.’

“What’s a- the first sign. What is that.”

Wild quickly sketched up a very weird looking horse-lion and added in a rushed sword

That was when Wild remembered the very worst thing he had ever encountered.

Shakily he drew giant hands with eyes in the palms. He tried to show how they spread and grabbed a hylian figure lifting it off the ground.

“What are these?”

‘Ganon. Gloom hands. You have to hit all the eyes at once. Then it transforms into Ganon.’

Time paled. Wild hoped he could understand most of that.

“Yes. We should warn everyone about this.”

They had all agreed to leave tomorrow morning and Wild now had a brand-new sleeping bag he got to test out by Malon’s fire. He absolutely loved it here. Even if it made him homesick for Zelda and his home…

He enjoyed his new pillow, carefully hugging it to his chest. Instinct told him to claw into it but that would just be a waste!

 

Four laid across from him mumbling quietly to himself.  It didn't bother Wild. An idea had come to him and he suddenly sat up reaching over to bap the smallest hero.

 

"Hm?  What is it Wild?"

 

Wild covered his face mimicking that he was held something to his face.  He removed it and pretended to put it back on.

 

"A mask?..."

 

'Yes!' He then pretended he couldn't take off said mask like it was stuck on his face.

 

"Oh Wild... don't feel bad.  I think we're all wearing masks.  Masking. We all have our secrets..."
Four reached over to comfort Wild as he whined, annoyed that he was once again misunderstood! Hylia you are freaking laughing right now, aren't you?? With a loud huff he rolled over and covered his face. He needed sleep.

Chapter 7: let them eat cake

Malon had been doing most of the cooking but now that his chores for the day were done, Wild snuck into the kitchen to take advantage of what he was promised.
As much milk as he wanted?  Well alright then.
He grinned around his spoon enjoying the ability to truly cook since joining the chain.

Fire side cooking could never compare to real baking.

He was just pulling out the cheesecake he had made when curious noses entered the kitchen.

Wild offered a small grin and waved to greet his oldest brother.

‘Everyone eat.’

“Yeah? Alright. I’ll callem.” Time brought them all one at a time and Wild happily split up the cake into slices and covered each one with wild berry syrup on top. He couldn’t control his rumbling purrs at their expressions of awe.

 

This was the first time he had been able to really show his cooking skill for what it was.

“Holy crap Wild what is this??” Legend had left with his plate but had quickly turned back around to give Wild more praise.

 

‘Burnt Cheesecake.’ Wild knew it was unlikely they knew the sign for cheese but burnt and cake should be understood.

 

“Burn? You burned this, and it still tastes so good??”

 

‘That's how it is. The nutty- you don’t know that sign.’ Wild grumbled shoving a bite of his own cheesecake hoping for inspiration on how to explain.
‘It makes it taste even better.’

 

“Wild!” Malon exclaimed, getting her own piece.

“You’ve got to give me the recipe. Please. This would be all over the city if they knew how good this is!”

 

Wild chuckled and agreed with just a nod. Hopefully his recipes would translate well enough for her to understand. After all they couldn’t understand each other's writing.

‘I show you. I promise.’

 

“Yes! That means we get more! Seriously how is this good filling??” Wind exclaimed.

 

‘Milk. So much milk.’

 

That night Malon had offered to let him help in the kitchen. It seemed he was the only one allowed into the space. Time was apparently not as serious as her about keeping things clean... It didn’t surprise Wild honestly. Heros were not known for being careful...

 

Wild got up the next morning deciding he needed to prepare for the journey. He couldn’t keep going without potions and a few long-lasting meals. Enough for all of them for at least one night. That's why Wild came to Time for some advice showing him a few rough sketches of a cave, deer and mushrooms. Time grinned taking the time to point out his favorite spots on a map.

 

“You shouldn’t go out alone. Pick someone to go with you. Hopefully someone who can talk? You'll have to find some way to get our attention before you wander off with Twilight or Hyrule. Sorry I won't go. I'll be spending time with my wife.”

 

‘You should. I would with flower.’

 

Wild wandered off looking around at his brothers both inside and outside of the small farmhouse. He would have just picked Twilight of course but... maybe Time was right. Maybe this was his chance to spend time with those he rarely spoke too... No Hyrule no Twilight... Legend... no... Warriors? Maybe? Four? Maybe? Wind was constantly attached to his hip so no to him too. Sky? No. The man was currently asleep on Time’s couch despite it almost being lunch time. It still surprised Wild how Sky could sleep almost anywhere.

Fine. So, he could pick between Four and Warriors.

If he was being honest with himself, he hadn't... wanted to talk to the knight. He was always so... perfect. Fine! Do something new for once Link! Build the bridge. Maybe You'll learn something! Wild dropped into the seat beside Warriors and held out his journal to him.

 

‘Will you go with me?’

 

“Me? What for?”

 

‘Potions and Food. Should be fun!’ Wild tried to look friendly. The aura made that difficult. He wasn’t exactly expressive even with a hylian face. It had gotten him into trouble even before the calamity.

 

“Potions? You know where to get some? Here? Yeah, I got to see this.”

 

It was a bit unnerving how very clean Warrior's stayed even while hiking through the forest. Wild kept looking at him curiously, watching to see how he managed it. Wars would constantly sweep his hair back and carefully fix his scarf after climbing over even the smallest of obstacles.

“What? Is something on my face?”

 

Wild shook his head looking away.

‘No. Sorry. I...’

 

“Careful if you start staring in front of Legend, he will never shut up about it.”

 

‘He can shove it. I just wanted to ask...’ Wild rumbled actually laughing. Warriors slowed down to catch what Wild was signing. Wild held up his shiny tag from Zelda before gently pointing to Warrior's scarf.
'We're the same.'

 

“Oh... Yeah, I suppose so. It's sort of the same but different. We never did talk about it, did we? You know I'm a knight?”

 

Wild agreed, pointing to himself and nodded again.

 

“You too? You never said!”

 

Wild stopped walking and looked away off towards the farm now in the distance.

 

‘It’s not the same. I failed. You don’t understand...’ He had to use words he knew... well...
‘I’m a fuck up. you aren't.’ Twilight had taught him that one. It was clear enough at least. He just hadn't expected Wars to suddenly grab his shoulders to make Wild look at him.

 

“Don't ever say that again. sign. Whatever. I understand if you're not ready to talk about it, but that sort of talk doesn’t help... Do you know I have a therapist?”

 

Wild tilted his head, first asking Warriors to sign that so he could learn then asking what a therapist even was.

 

“It's someone generally someone you pay to talk about you. They help you learn about yourself and the things that happened to you. I'm still sort of learning that you can't win at therapy. It's just something that’s good for you. Like a bath or you know, touching grass.”

Warriors shrugged, letting Wild go.

“You can talk to me if you want. I won't tell anyone unless you want me too.”

 

‘I want too.’ Wild would have too. He would have told Warriors everything right then and there if only he knew enough sign it in a way the other knight understood.
‘I will. Soon.’

 

Wild promised himself that he would. When he could tell the others truths about himself, he wouldn’t hesitate. Even if they came to hate him for his failures.

Notes:

sorry about the long break guys you know the story already im sure you heard it a thousand times. job change and getting sick in the same month? i was still writing though just struggling. i had some major plot ideas for this one and intend on continuing! feel free to message me as always if you have any idea too! thanks so much for reading

Chapter 8: broken swords and minds

Wild lost himself to his instincts excitedly climbing every wall within the cave. He collected everything in sight. He only jumped down when Warriors yelled at him for eating things he didn't know about, which was fair but honestly this mushroom looked really similar and had a hollow stem, so it was probably fine. He wasn't dying yet!

Warriors didn't like that either when he told him that.

 

“Seriously! How did you survive training??”

 

Wild tilted his head thoughtfully remembering what little he did... if he had to guess the truth...

‘Not happy. I was dead inside.’ Melodramatic, he knew but he had to work with the words he had!

 

“Fuck. Just don't eat anything else until Time can clear it!”

 

Wild sighed dramatically and headed off into the woods before Warriors could stop him.

It was time to hunt! He and Sidon had gotten his hunting down to a science. Even with Warriors huffing and puffing to keep up behind him, Wild was sure he would catch something big enough to keep them fed for a few days. greens and rice simply weren't enough to keep nine young men from going at each other's throats.

Link stopped Warriors at a bank. He was grateful the rushing water masked the man's breathing. Across the way a boar drank still unaware it was in danger.

“I-i can hit it-”

‘No. One hit not enough. I'll get it. Wait here. I'll need help getting it back across.’

“Got it.” Warriors nodded in agreement.

Wild grinned savagely before he sprinted towards the highest tree. It only took him one swift cut with the master sword to topple it. Warrior's jaw hung slack as the Zonai's arm glowed green, the magic expanded out to hold the massive log aloft in the air like it weighed only a few apples.

Wild tried to stifle his laughter as he quietly shifted the tree over the river at an angle before pulling it back. A moment later and the insane man was riding a floating tree! NO, he was running up the floating tree flipping off it into a spin. The master sword nearly slit the pig in two before it exploded in Wilds hands in a shower of blue fragments.

“WHat in the Name of Hylia!!”

 

It had been worth it. His prank had caused a yelling first from Time and Twilight who apparently thought taking turns yelling at him would be most effective. Then it had caused Sky and Four to yell at him next. Sky for once was actually mad. That had been scary. Actually, scary and Wild suddenly remembered that the group called him a God-killer. Perhaps that had been an acerate nickname. Sky's face was all red and angry, those clouded eyes focused completely on Wild while Four was muttering darkly about tossing Wild into his forge...
By the time they were done yelling his master sword had returned on his back and he offered it up hoping that would make their anger cool.
It didn't.
Still, it had been worth it... maybe.

He had supplies and potions and even found some pretty gems... but no salt strangely enough. Time had explained it only came from the sea here. It was shipping into the city.

 

Over the next couple days of travel Wild had begun to get used to the others talking about him around him. It was sometimes awkward because they’ll go in and out of including him in these conversations. He was never sure how much he was supposed to be hearing.

“He rarely looks us in the eyes. Do you think that’s just the-” Wild assumed that Legend was signing the name Zonai as the others still had no idea how to verbally say the name.
“In him?” Legend continued.

“I think you misjudge his hearing. You shouldn’t talk about him so close.” Warriors hissed quietly back.

Legend looked back at Wild who was lying in his bedroll pretending to be asleep. Normally he could block out voices around him. Just turn off that translating part of his brain to just let himself enjoy the static voices of his brothers only broken up by the beautiful sounds of nature.

Wild could imagine it was weird. He had never traveled with a large group like this. He likely didn’t react the way the others expected.

“Well! I don’t talk behind people’s backs. I don’t say anything I wouldn’t say to their goddess damned faces. But what do you think? Do you think it’s something to worry about? He said his castle was broken…”

“You think his Hyrule not having a castle is connected to him struggling to look at people he isn’t talking too?” Wild could hear the fond annoyed eye roll in his brother's voice.

“Yes. No… it’s just…”

Legend sighed loudly milling everything over in his head.

“Why was he brought to us instead of us brought to his time. That’s what happened every other time for us! I can’t help but think that somehow his time must be even worse than Rulie’s. His skill is… well, wild but also incredible. I would hate to fight him for real. Not only that but he is clearly hiding powers from us. remember the tree?”

Wild had quickly moved up the ranking system the other Link’s had started up. They could challenge each other in friendly fights. They were only allowed to land friendly hits which never left any marks. It was a challenge to learn a completely new form of fighting, but one Wild was determined to master.
Legend was probably right. Would they have never found him in his big empty world? It had taken him forever to find a real Hylian village when his first journey had just begun.

Wild wasn't sure exactly how to explain what was wrong with him.  He should at least try right?... His brothers deserved the truth whenever possible.

With a sigh he pulled out his journal what was most important?
His memory loss?  But how does one draw memory loss?
He knew how to sign it, but the others hadn't understood him the first time he had tried.

"Are you alright Wild?" Legend at some point had returned to the fire side lightly kicking the Zonai at Hyrule's prompting.

'Yes.  Just thinking.'

"Looks painful.  Any way we can help?”

Only now did Wild realize his hands shook, and he cleared his throat. His throat absolutely did not squeak. Nope not at all.
It was embarrassing.  Normally he was alone or with Zelda when he got lost like this.

'No.  I don't think so.'
That was when Wind dropped himself right into Wild's lap. Wind was only slightly smaller than him and instinctively Wild held him close. The boy hung on to him all day long. This was nothing new.

"Whatever it is you aren't alone, Wild. Try?" Wind looked back at him over his shoulder hopefully.

He nodded pressing his nose into Wind’s hair for a moment. He needed to calm down.

Maybe he was over thinking this. Maybe it was so obvious and easy. With a snort Wild shifted so he could draw with Wind in his lap. His paper balanced on his knee; His snout rested on the boy's shoulder perfectly.

It was helping, grounding to have someone so close.

He drew an outline of a Hylian head with a brain and shaded it in. Then he drew a rock with an arrow pointed to the head. He drew another bigger arrow which pointed to another outlined head. This new head he kept empty, only an outline. Wild hoped his meaning was clear enough. Wild looked over the journal but couldn’t think of a better way to explain than this.

He handed it to Hyrule whose eyes widened. Hyrule’s hands flitted, signs fast and short to his translator Legend.

"A-are you trying to say you’ve lost your memory?”

Normally the sounds of camp were continuous. Someone always yelled or hit something or snored like a devil, but the camp was very suddenly dead silent. They were all focusing on Wild.

He hugged Wind close, almost using him as a shield from the rest of the camp.

‘Yes. Memory loss. I was hit by a Guardian.’

Hyrule signed so fast Wild barely caught it, but Legend already started speaking.

“He asks, if you're alright? Can he touch your head? He wants to use his magic.”

Wild cleared his throat nervously running his hands through his hair. touching his red hair was becoming a nervous habit.

‘Yes. Yes.’

Hyrule knelt down beside Wild, their hands softly glowing around Wild’s head.

He was searching for damage he had somehow missed the last time he had checked and healed Wild. Hyrule would find nothing. Between the Resurrection Shrine and Mipha there wouldn’t be any damage.

When Hyrule shook his head, Legend crossed his arms.

"So, what does this mean Wild?  How does this affect you?"

'Not dangerous.  I stare.  I get lost.'

"Lost in your head?"  Wild nodded, eyes on the ground. He struggled to meet the other’s eyes.

'Only when I’m safe.' It was hard to keep his signs short.  He knew if he wasn't careful, he would ramble, and the others wouldn’t understand. Twilight came to stand behind him and quietly squeezed Wild’s shoulder.

“We get that you can't answer everything right now Wild. but you're absolutely sure you're fine? Safe? Has an episode happened when you weren't safe? like during a fight?” Legend translated Twilight’s signs and Wild shook his head.

‘No. Never, promise. I get some warning. I can feel it. Like a haze.’

 

The others seemed to watch him from then on like they expected him to... what?... fall into some trance at any moment? He didn’t have much of a choice except to grin and bare it. Pretend everything was normal. They would learn to trust him again with time.

Days passed slowly. Marching and making camp and receiving and sending letters. His only highlights were the fights. each seemed so fun! Interesting. The patterns sort of reminded Wild of the Master Sword Trials. Just enough monsters to keep things interesting not enough to actually overpower them.

Wild giggled watching his brother excitedly playing with some puppies.  He wouldn't normally come this close to a city, but a portal had dumped them all within castle town.
Twilight had been quick to find them a quiet spot to spend the afternoon while he waited for his summons to the castle.
He had explained to Wild that he wasn't as close to his princess as the other links.  They were sort of friends but just hadn't had much time together... Wild could tell there was something more bothering his brother but chose not to force the matter.

'Wild come pet!' Twilight signed with one hand lovingly holding a dog to his chest

'No! Can't!'  Wild giggled again shaking his head.

"Huh?  Why not?"  Wind came around with his own cat on his head.

'No word.  Bad.  My nose.'

“You’re allergic to dogs?” Twilight paused his petting to openly stare at Wild and hurriedly made Wind translate for him. Wild nodded rapidly and forced Wind to repeat the new signs a few times.

‘Wolf and Dog are not the same. Not allergic to wolf.’

“Do you want to try a cat? You’re a cat person!”

Wind giggled excitedly running over with one of the kittens. Wild frowned down at the little creature thinking about it. Was it worth his afternoon being ruined?

‘No cats. I’ve never seen cats before.’ Then the little thing yawned up at him. Such a thing would break anyone. Carefully Wild lifted the little one up and sniffed before handing it back. He would know pretty quickly after all. There was no need to make the reaction worse. Within moments he was fighting sneezes and had to get up to leave.

Between sneezing and washing his hands Wild had to use up the last of their water.

"What's wrong with him?" Wild huffed as Hyrule and Time automatically began to fuss over him.

"The cat man is allergic to cats!"
Thankyou Wind.
Thank you so fucking much Wind.  He laughed weakly at the ridiculousness of it all.  At least he had limited his exposure. He didn't want to deal with hives. that would just look hideous on the Aura.

"Are you okay Wild?" He nodded, accepting the cloth Time had offered to clean up with.

'I try to be nice to dogs.  I just can't touch.'

"Haha Twilight’s face!"  Wind howled behind him causing even more snickering from the Chain.

Warriors soon jogged back from where he was guarding the ally way.

“Guard finally came back Twi. Said we’re all expected, and we can head up to the castle.”

Oh fuck no. Rubbing his nose Wild quickly climbed up the nearest brick wall to escape the city now that his brothers were going in.

‘I’ll see you outside! I’m not going to castle!’

“Alright! Stay out of trouble Wild! And stay in one spot so Sky can douse for you once we’re done!”

 

‘Yes!’

 

He leaped across the rooftops and quietly hummed to himself as he quickly left the city. It was actually fun watching the people down below.

He absolutely would have had a panic attack if he was stuck down there… Wild shook himself, his tail flicked above him with irritation just from his imagination. Soon enough Wild found himself within the branches of a quiet little tree outside the city. He even had a few tasty snacks to roast at a fire. It was nice further out. He could watch the farmers and animals until the others returned and then Wild imagined they would be heading off towards the next monster camp. Rinse repeat... would this be forever? Would he ever return to his home?

Wild’s thought drifted away like the wind was sleep took him. The others would find him deeply asleep in a tree.

Notes:

hey guys i think ill be creating a new story that will have a big time skip that will be more plot related. id love idea for some one shots i can put here if you guys have any :D thanks so much for reading hope you all had a good year!

Chapter 9: hurt feelings and the zora

“Murr?...” Wild opened his eyes at Wind’s yell. The chain waited below him. He must have been sleeping heavy not to hear all the clanking of weapons and armor or perhaps he was just used to it.

 

“Look there he is! How do you sleep in a tree!”

Sleepily Wild slipped down the side of the tree to join his brothers.

“Careful Wild you’ll end up like Sky sleeping all over the place.”

 

‘No one could be that bad. What did Dusk have to say.’ His brothers sniggered at Sky’s expense. Sky took the teasing good naturedly only laughing and scratching the back of his head.

 

“She’s told us about a group of monsters spotted on one of the main path to the Zora blocking travel. We’re to go out and deal with them.”

 

‘Dusk demands to see you next time. Even if I have to sneak you into the castle or she has to sneak out.’ Twilight told Wild with a playful smack. ‘You could have warned us you weren’t coming.’

 

‘Easier to ask forgiveness-‘ they didn’t understand that.

‘Easier to say sorry than ask.’

 

“Chicken!” Wind was caught up in a head rub by Warriors for calling Wild names.

 

Wild just laughed and playfully joined into the bickering. It would be a decent walk across Hyrule field and hopefully they could have some fun as they cleared out this group of monsters.

‘Sorry. No good memories. Word. Box that holds people.’

 

“Cage? Signed like this.”

 

The Zonai nodded and repeated the sign.

‘Only cage. Cage for Ganon.’

 

“That… explains allot.”

Wild grinned happily. Another thing about his story could be understood.

 

‘So that’s why. I don’t like going in without Flower.’

 

‘We’ll sneak you in. it will be easy with how you climb. I just wish the monsters were a bit closer to home. You’d meet my family.’

 

‘You got family!’

Wild grinned watching Twilight sign about his human family. Whatever that was.

It was a long while before he was able to ask.

‘What is that sign? Human?’

 

Sky stepped closer placing his hand on Wild’s shoulder for his attention when he kept asking for more details.

“It’s a race very similar to Hylian. We all used to be human before Hylia blessed us. The main difference is rounded ears. Not much else.” Wild tilted his head thoughtfully rubbing his own pointy ears.

“It’s mostly visitors from outside of Hyrule.”

 

‘Like my family. All moved together. Found me. Adopted me.’ Twilight grinned.

Their talk was interrupted by some bow practice against some rather strange bug like creatures. Thankfully they were no problem for the large group.

‘What about the rest of you? Family?’ Wild couldn’t be happier as Wind quickly started jabbering on about his grandma and sister and his crew out on the sea.

‘Can’t wait to meet them.’

“You’ll love the ocean!”

‘Don’t swim well. Don’t like water.’

“Awww! Why not?”

‘Bad memory. Don’t like.’ Wild signed shortly hoping to keep it at that.

It wasn’t long before Wild was bored with their walk. He climbed up the hillside to see the field that stretched out before them.

The roads were cobbled perfect for horse travel and it sped up the groups speed tremendously.

The strangest lizalfos Wild had ever seen stood in the pathway and he called down to his brothers to make them aware.

This one had normal blood and Wild took his chance to start his organ collection once more.

Soon enough he would have potions for everyone!

“Wild! Ehhgh what are you doing?” Warrior screeched freaking out.

Wild wouldn’t normally have to stick his hands into the bodies but without his slate he had to make hard decisions which included physically harvesting his potion ingredients.

Wild just stared at his brother for a long moment before he wrapped up the organ in wax paper and shoved it into his bag.

“You gremlin! That better not be dinner!” Wild laughed taking the chance to scurry away.

 

He would absolutely let them think it was for dinner tonight. Might even make the potion in front of them just to freak them out.

 

There wasn’t much cover as the group finally started up the hill that led to the Zora’s domain.

Before them stood a massive wooden structure completely barricading the only tunnel for hylians to travel through. Of course, the Zora could make it up stream. Wild really missed his Zora armor at a time like this.

 

He only half paid attention as the group argued over how to approach.

 

Honestly Wild thought they were over thinking it just because they were outnumbered. Not exactly anything he wasn’t used to.

 

Still if they wanted to do all the thinking all the better.

Instead, he slipped back climbing the rock wall to get a better look at their base.

 

He wished he had his bombs… Maybe twilight would let him borrow his. That would make quick work of the wooden platforms. Still, they would get overwhelmed by the numbers and tight pathway if they weren’t careful.

 

When he finally returned the others were Still arguing.

He rolled his head getting annoyed at this point.

 

If he was by himself, he would have just bombed them and then herded the group of monsters towards the river.

“Then we’re in agreement Wild can you stop that boulder they have? Otherwise, it will hit us coming down. Then we’ll set fire to the wood and back off once they’re defenseless. Regroup and then attack together.”

 

‘Yes. I’ll drop it on them.’ Wild agreed. Despite the bickering it wasn’t a bad plan.

 

“Great. Scurry back up that tree there and protect us with arrows once the boulder is dealt with.

Wild grinned showing off his sharp teeth and nodded.

He scrambled up getting ready to grab the Boulder as soon as it gained enough momentum

 

The monsters were quick to spot the Chain as the ground team rushed forward. Swords gleamed in the sunlight and Legend ran in the lead, fire rod already charging to fire.

There was a moment when his brothers looked worried about the boulder rolling down towards them before it suddenly stopped hesitating in the air with holy energy before just as fast returning where it came from.

 

Wild let it go as soon as it was over the closest tower letting it crash down violently through the wooden structure.

It even managed to start back down the hill hitting a few black blooded monsters along the way.

Before it could hit his brothers Wild lifted it back up into the air. He let it fall back behind them towards the river.

Laughter rang out from the battlefield, Wind, Wild thought.

 

Arrows flew as Wild hurried to support his brothers. Legend had successfully lit the whole structure on fire. Wild had no idea he was so fast! He seemed to fly through the battlefield clearly bouncing off the stone walls.

 

Everything seemed to be going well until a lizard slashed away Wind’s sword. The boy only had his shield! Wild was the only one to notice and he jumped from his perch and tossed himself between the two. Blood ran down his temple as he went down.

The attack had been too fast for him to switch to his master sword- He probably should have thrown his sword instead. Or shoot it with an arrow from the tree. He was an idiot.

Then black crept over his mind. It dragged him into sweet unconsciousness.

 

Wild slowly came around. He felt numb, it had only been a scratch yet somehow it had taken him down?

Poison. His mind supplied the answer.

He had landed on Wind but now he was on his back being cradled by Warriors.

‘What?’ His addled mind couldn't remember the sign in their sign language. Hopefully they understood.

 

“Don’t move. You’re still bleeding.”

 

Wild could hear the group arguing in the background. Wind was the loudest. He shouted about not knowing something.

‘Water.’ He gulped down the liquid hoping it would help him clear his system.

 

“Twilight don’t crowd him.” Warriors huffed still holding Wild up in a sitting position. Wild was only now aware of his brother beside him. All tight lipped and pissed looking.

 

‘Shut up. My idiot brother deserves a dressing down for that.’

 

‘I panicked. I’m sorry.’

 

“Nows not the time for apologies. Let’s get him on his feet, we need to back off. The monsters only just got the fire under control.” Time commented from his position watching the enemy camp.

 

“Alright up and at it.” Warriors gestured for Twilight to help him. Wild found himself half dragged back towards the bridge. It would be a good position to protect the group until Wild felt better.

 

Twilight had the good sense to wait until Wild was sat on the bridge to demand answers.

‘So, what happened back there? Broke another shield so you used your face?’

 

Wild sniggered softly and nodded.

‘Panicked. Didn’t mean to make it worse. I’m used to-’ Wild paused trying to explain.

‘Not-I don’t know word.’

 

Wind stopped before them. The boy looked so concerned as he asked, “Are you sure you’re okay?”

 

Wild grinned up at Wind trying to reassure him as he mopped up the blood from his face.

He knocked his head before signing one handed.

‘Fine. I’m hard-rock headed.’

 

Dramatically, Wind turned away and crossed his arms.

“Well… I’ll have you know I was ready to dodge out of harm's way back there. And this isn’t the first time!” Wind wasn’t exactly yelling at Wild at this point turning to the other men on the team.

“Don’t think I haven’t noticed!”

 

Twilight stood holding Wind’s shoulder for his attention.

‘We can’t help it. You’re the youngest.’

 

This seemed to only anger Wind further.

“You are the last people I thought I’d have to prove myself too! I earned my hero spirit. All I ask is you guys have a little more faith in me.” He plopped himself down hotly next to Wild.

 

‘I’m sorry. It’s not your age for me. Age means nothing. You’re older in your head than I am.’

 

“Then what…”

Wind suddenly jerked like he just remembered, then his big eyes teared up.

“Ah I’m sorry Wild that wasn’t because of you.”

‘I know... I was dumb. I acted… because I’m always alone. Or my companions can’t die. Ghost. Spirit. I’m not used to…’

 

“Right… are you really really okay Wild?”

 

‘Yes. Feel better just dizzy.’ Wind sniffled and Wild couldn’t stop himself from pulling the kid against his chest.

 

“I’m the worst judge but I think you proved your maturity today.” Time gently rubbed Wind’s hair.

 

“I m-mean I defeated Ganon how old do you expect me to be.” He sniffled, glaring around at the others.

Wild rumbled hugging Wind close. He hadn’t meant to cause all of this but honestly, he was glad to know how Wind was feeling. He promised himself to do better.

 

“Wild you said something.” Times firm expression turned on him suddenly.

Oh fuck.

“How old are you mentally?”

Oh Fuck.

He hesitated before slowly holding up his hand to sign nine.

His resurrection date wouldn’t be for a few more months.

 

“Just a baby!” Legend yelped loudly.

“But you’ve already had an adventure??”

 

He lowered his head like he was in trouble somehow. He felt like it.

‘Two.’

 

“S-so how old are you? Like your body?” Wind shakily asked.

 

‘Two answers.’ This would be easier. Maybe even funny.

 

“How are there Two Answers??” It seemed Four decided to join the freak out now.

 

‘I died.’ Wild made a weird noise pretending a rather dramatic death.

Blah blahhh blood pain choking death. He hung his tongue out for a moment and laid back. Wild grinned up at Wind to make him laugh.

‘Heal. Healing asleep.’

 

“Okay… that sort of makes sense. So how old Are you?”

 

‘Twenty-three or second option- one hundred and twenty-three.’

 

"Well then..." Time seemed the least shaken by this revelation. “We will be talking about this more later.”

 

‘When do we go? Monsters.’ Wild signed hoping to keep the group off the topic of his death for now.

‘They won’t kill themselves.’

 

“As soon as you’re back to normal. You still look a bit loopy.”

 

‘Dizzy yes.’ Wild wasn’t sure when but a bowl was pushed under his nose.

Ohhh! He made a pleased squeak tasting the broth first. The meat must have been dry aged because it tasted so rich of meat while still feeling light. Even if it was a little boring ingredient wise it was still pretty good.

‘Recipe. Please. Who made?’

 

“Hyrule eghh. Wild please feel better because Hyrule should never cook again.”

 

‘I need that recipe.’ It wasn't long before Wild was back on his feet excited to go again.
'I feel better!  Time please.'

 

‘As much as I want him to rest, the monsters could attack the Zora to get away from us.  We should move.'  At least Twilight was on his side.

 

“Do we have to worry about the Zora attacking us? I know the Queen told us to help them but…” Legend seemed doubtful as he spoke, and Twilight quickly shook his head.

‘Zora are our allies. You don’t have to worry.’

This didn’t seem to reassure him though. That deep frown was permanently etched into the Veteran's face.

 

“Fine. Everyone pack up. Let’s get this over with so we can relax in the Zora domain tonight.” Time ordered.

 

The fight went far better this time. Wild had pushed his way into the front lines and Twilight had slipped away rejoining the group as Wolfie.

The pair hadn’t fought together in forever and Wild did his best to teach Wolfie how they used to support each other in battle.

 

The monsters, while far too strong beefed up on Malice, seemed to lack leadership and were already hurt by the fire and boulder.

Wild didn’t relax until the last one fell. Like a gremlin he went back to work to collect as much as he could. He kept it separate in his pack worrying about using these monster parts in potions. He would hate to accidentally poison his brothers.

The loud horrified noises from his brothers were worth every uncomfortable second.  With a laugh Wild cleaned off his hands and sword of the black blood.

 

"Seriously Wild what are you planning to do with all of those?"

 

'Health potions.'

 

"No.  No fuck you.  Do not joke like that." Warriors spat before he stomped off.

 

Wild shrugged and followed Twilight through the tunnel. He could hear the water already, the sound bounced off the rough cave walls.

 

It opened up and widened into a proper stone walkway which overlooked a natural lake. The water fell in a powerful waterfall. This area was smaller than Wild was used too for a Zora domain, but he had to admit that the natural beauty took his breath away.

Zora guards relaxed upon their arrival.

“Hero! It is good to see you!”

It took wild a second to remember they meant Twilight, of course.

 

‘Will you tell the King the way is clear now? That I am here?’

 

“Of course! Stand down! The threat has passed! Please Hero, you and your companions should relax here in the domain tonight.”

 

‘We were hoping too. Thank you. Here seems a great place to set up camp.’ Twilight gestured to the pathway in agreement. ‘Any chance we could get some fish?’

 

“Yes please allow us to catch your dinner hero. It’s the least we can do.”

Notes:

hey guys im gonna start posting on sundays instead ha im starting to realize it takes more than one day to edit as always i hope you guys like the chapter thanks so much for reading and if you have any ideas or questions feel free to comment down below!

Chapter 10: masks and empty eyes

The view was incredible. The walkway they set up their sleeping bags on overlooked the Zora domain. Zora swam and played within the safety of the lake below.  Apparently, a court room was further up the path and Twilight left them to go speak with this young King.
Wild considered a swim but decided to leave that until morning.  He would never dry off before bedtime.

Still! Nothing could stop him from exploring! Wild only came back from his climb when he saw Twilight dive down from the waterfall.

‘You got Zora armor!’

 

‘Yes. It was a gift.’ Twilight nodded and took off the head piece. His hair looked insane.

 

‘Which Zora asked?’

 

‘Asked what?’

 

‘To marry you! Love!’ His brother had never mentioned any sort of lover.

 

Twilight sniggered before sadly shaking his head.

‘Don’t joke. It was more like graverobbing. The late queens ghost told me to take it.’

 

Wild stood there trying desperately to find some sanity. He had only been joking but…

‘Me too. Ghost Zora Princess. She said she loved me.’

 

‘There’s no way that’s a thing for everyone.’

 

Wild didn’t want to think about that and instead focused on making a decent dinner. He had time and plenty of fish and even some salt and spices from Malon.

‘Chop these please.’ Twilight nodded, taking the knife and passing the food back once he was done.

 

‘I do have questions. I need Time to translate.’

‘Go get him. Is here, okay?’

 

‘No. Outside. I don’t want the others to overhear.’ Twilight looked sort of worried. He glanced at Four who was busy with their weapons.

 

Wild tilted his head, covered the food and nodded. ‘Let’s go. We can go talk.’

 

Wild worried for a moment he was about to be told off for his bad joke earlier but surely Twilight wasn’t mad. He didn’t smell mad at least. Wild waited as Twilight collected his mentor. He had even lied, signed something about fishing so the others wouldn't follow. The three walked down the river together for a bit before Twilight stopped.

 

‘Please translate for us Time. I’d like you to know these things about me anyway. Ask questions too.’ Time nodded and repeated that for Wild. Time really was the best translator of the group. He said exactly what was signed and only changed the sentence enough to make it proper.

 

‘We’re listening.’

 

“He Says-Okay slow down just a bit. You’ve got connections with my history, and I have questions because I lost someone important to me. She’s something called a Twil. Hylians who were changed by dark magic long ago. They live in the mirror realm.”

 

Wild frowned thoughtfully. He tried to understand where this had all come from suddenly. Why hadn't Twi said anything sooner?

 

‘What makes you think I’m connected? I am but I'm curious.’

 

Twilight gasped. He stepped closer and held Wilds' shoulders for a moment. His signs were more rapid and excited now.

“Your armor. You are covered in very similar designs to her. Your hair. Your powers are even the same! She could lift incredible weight with her magic and mind.”

 

Wild tilted his head before he waved for Twilight to continue. Something told him there was more to this.

 

“She… could teleport the both of us. She could transform to look like other people. It was incredible.”

 

‘Zelda has told me about this.  Twil are related to Zonai.  Family. I can teleport in my Hyrule too.’

 

“Really!” There was hope in Twilight’s eyes. Hope Wild hated to dash. They wouldn’t understand the truth. He had tried so many times to explain…

 

‘You forget I don’t have any memories. I’m not…’ Wild sighed. He struggled to meet Twilight’s eyes.

‘I know the Zonai come from another place, the sky, but I don’t know how to get there.’

 

After a moment of silence Twilight reached out to rub Wild’s red hair.

“Don’t look so sad. You being here, means they must be okay. Twilight is right Wild. Don't beat yourself up.”

 

‘All my information is from Zelda. Flower. She spent time with the Zonai. She would know more. I can only repeat what I remember from her info dumps.’

 

“How about this? We’ll ask her when we finally meet your Flower. It’s difficult to understand what you're saying Wild.” Time squeezed Twilight’s shoulder in support.

 

‘I know.’ Wild sighed and shook his head. ‘Let’s go finish cooking Twi. We should talk about this again. Later.’

 

Their dinner was simple but plentiful, mostly fish and roasted roots. Wild was distracted, lost in thought about the little he knew about the Twil. Zelda had mentioned them along with the other Tribes. He also vaguely remembered the story of the Hero of Twilight. The Hero who freed the land of shadow along with a divine beast. A wolf who could pass through the darkness... It was funny knowing the truth now, that Twilight could transform into said wolf.

 

Wind leaned against Time’s shoulder. He asked excitedly about any new masks Time had as the older picked through fish bones for more meat.

‘You two knew each other before?’ Wild shook his head. He decided to put his worry aside for now.

 

“Oh, you wouldn’t know! This isn’t our first weird time thing. Time and I went to Warriors’ when we were both kids!” Wind waved his hands around as he spoke. Wild snorted softly. Like Wind wasn't a kid still.

 

“I was smaller than Wind. These two would never let me forget it.” Time laughed messing up Wind’s hair.

 

“Right but he had all these powerful masks back then! Did you get anymore?” Wind’s puppy dog eyes could not be ignored.

 

“Oh, a few I suppose.”

 

Time and Sky laughed as Wind tried on a pair of pink rabbit ears. He seemed to have dozens of masks in his bag, but Time carefully selected which to show them.

“Do you really not use them anymore?” Wind giggled pulling out his sword to show off.

 

“Not really… they aren’t exactly playthings. I suppose I just keep them now for safety. Some of these... Well, no one should use. They're dangerous.”

 

Wild purred and leaned in to respond.

‘I wish I had my things. I have masks. I’m wearing one now.’ It didn’t seem that anyone understood what he had signed. Wild sighed.

 

“I can’t wait to see them! Hopefully when we go to your time, you can show us!”

 

‘Yes. Promise. Big collection. Swords. Shields. Bows. Armor.’

Time hesitated before pulling out a white mask with the Sheikah eye emblazed on the front.

Wild swallowed, giving Time his full attention now.

‘That’s the Shiekah Crest. I’ve never seen that one before.’

 

“This is the Mask of Truth. With it I can hear the words of beasts and the secrets of the stones. I hadn’t considered it might be used to speak with you Wild. Would you like to try?”

 

‘…Yes, but I don’t think it will work. I'm not a beast.’

Time just shrugged and slipped it on before he turned to look back at Wild.

 

Wild mentally prepared himself for the embarrassment of trying to actually talk like this. It was a rare thing even before he put on the Aura, but it would be worth it if he could actually talk to one of the Chain properly.

 

It was a long moment before he realized Time was just staring at him. The older hero was tense and-Time's hands shook. They were clinched into fists in his lap. The chain had all stopped waiting for- what? Weren't they supposed to be talking?

Wild made a worried meowing sound, slowly getting up. Time obviously wasn’t okay, and that fact was punctuated by how he ripped off the mask. His face was clammy and pale. As pale as the mask in his hands.

 

Time stumbled to his feet trying to get away from Wild. He fell backwards in desperation, even tripped back against the stone wall.

“W-wild-”

Both of his eyes stared at the Zonai in horror. Wild had never seen Time’s right eye. It was completely empty. The lack of iris or pupil made the gaze seem otherworldly and hollow. Wild couldn’t think of anything Time might have seen that could cause such a reaction. Even if he had seen the truth, that Wild was Hylian blessed (or cursed) with a Zonai body why would Time act like he had seen a… ghost...

Notes:

As always thanks so much for reading! I adore all of you! Already working on next weeks chapter ha

Chapter 11: illness and home

Time shook himself. He covered his face with his hand for a moment.

“What happened? Time-” Wind hurried to help time sit back down.

 

“Sorry. Sorry Wild, it's not you. This is what I mean these... These masks aren't toys.” Wild felt sick just imagining what time might have actually gone through just now. Time was normally so composed. It bothered him to see the older hero shaken like this.

 

‘Not your fault.’ Wild nudged Four to speak for him since Time still refused to look at him.

 

“It's probably not something you want everyone to know.”

 

‘No. Whatever it is, just say it. I keep enough secrets just because I can't sign.’

 

“... I saw...” Time shook himself and finally looked up to meet Wild's eyes. “I saw spirits. Hundreds of them all twisted around you. I've never seen anything like it. I couldn't even see you because of how many were around you.”

 

Oh. oh... Wild lowered his gaze. He realized what that meant. It wouldn't surprise him with how many people had died that some spirits would refuse to move on, even after all of his hard work to return the spirits to the bargainer statues... Still it made his skin crawl imagining what Time was describing.

 

“They... they were... they were all calling for revenge. I could hear them. about burning and- and I don't think I should say anymore.” Time looked like he might be sick again.

 

“I can see ghosts and I can't see what you are talking about Time!” Wind frowned as he looked between Time and Wild.

 

‘I can see ghosts too, but not these. Thank Hylia.’ Wild grumbled. He rubbed his nose.

 

‘Wolfe can see ghosts. He can't see any.’ Twilight cleared his throat and agreed.

 

There was a long pause. So long even Wild was getting uncomfortable. Perhaps there was no better time for him to get the truth out.

 

‘One hundred years in the past, I died. I was killed protecting Princess Zelda, Flower. I told you that.’

 

“This connects somehow to the spirits?” Four pressed. The smallest hero had stared at him this whole time like he might actually see the ghosts if he looked hard enough. Or maybe like Wild was a new freak of nature to experiment on.

 

‘Yes. I wasn't the only one to die. The castle held Ganon. I also told you that.’ Wild sighed. He always struggled with this story. There was so much grief. So much pain and loss...

 

‘Ganon could not be killed. Only held back. His power would come in waves. We knew it would come. Tried to prepare for the fight. Everything we did he used against us. Killed...’ Wild paused and rubbed his face roughly.

 

‘Everyone. Thousands died at his hand that day. My friends. I believe these ghosts are the people back then. I tried to help them move on but sometimes they still show up. Offer me weapons. Support.’ Before anyone could say anything else Wild stood, walked to the edge of the cliff and climbed up to leave.

 

“Wild!”

 

“Let him go Wind. Come back when you're ready Wild. And don't you think for a second, we think any less of you. You were against impossible odds. I'm proud to fight with someone as strong as you.” Warriors spoke up as he physically held wind back. He had been surprisingly quiet during all of this but now... Wild was in tears as he climbed away from his brothers. He couldn't take it. The thought of comfort right now burned like acid. He had failed and even still his brothers...

 

This wasn't like him. He never cared what anyone, but Zelda or Sidon thought of him. It was easier that way... Had anyone ever looked at him like that? With horror? He shivered violently. Wild imagined what Time had seen... Hundreds of hands across his skin? Touched him and he completely unaware?

 

Hours passed and the full white moon rose into the night sky. It had taken wild a long time to calm down and even longer for his thoughts to return to some understanding.

He just wasn't sure why the spirit remained. after all. Hadn't he gotten revenge? Hadn't he killed Ganon under the castle? They should be at rest. Finally at rest...

 

Time couldn't sleep. He could never sleep on the full moon anyway, but guilt curled in his gut. It couldn't be ignored. Time had made a terrible mistake. It was a rare thing honestly but as always when he messed up, he realllyyy royally messed things up.

 

With a huff he went back to working the fire. the others would at least be warm and dry tonight... except for Wild. time shook his head. The boy had been nothing but kind and understanding. He rivaled sky for how nice he was. So pleased to do any little task or check on his brothers... Despite being alone. And it was clear the hero had been completely alone. Wild held the weight of thousands of deaths with little to no memory. How had Wild had even known how to be such a good person...

 

He needed to get that image of the writhing mass out of his head. It had been grotesque. A burned twisted flesh. Mouths eyes hands feathers stone and scale. It seems no race in Hyrule had been spared whatever fate Wild had passed from.

He had told them it was these protector creatures with the lantern eyes and long twisted arms.

Time stood and yanked his sword up as a howl pierced the night. He had never heard anything like it. A pained twisted noise which echoed down into the domain. Within seconds his boys were awake and raised their own weapons. Twilight took the lead. His ears flicked as he hurried up the walkway towards the court room.

 

Only in their sleepwear, the chain greeted the Zora guards. This time of night only a few guards were ready for battle.

 

“Hero! One of your own is making that noise!”

 

Wild. Wild’s shadowy form stood above them on the highest cliff face. The moon, his only backdrop. His howls had turned into screeches and yowls. The boy was on his hands and knees. He looked like a wild animal. Out of his mind.

 

“Wild! What's wrong!” Time felt a dread he had never felt before. He couldn't help but remember the stories of Twilight’s adventures of his friends, good happy people twisted by Ganon and intense feelings of hate. Surely... Oh Goddess surely, she wouldn't allow a hero to fall to such things. With one last loud hiss, Wild’s voice finally gave out and he turned to race away over the hillside.

 

“Twilight, can we get up there?”

 

‘I don't know! I've never tried! I've never even been up there. If I had help, I could probably make it but the only one who could make it up there is wild.’ twilight cared so much for wild.

 

“Time!” Four yelled from the fire. Wait. Time shook his head and refocused on Four and Hyrule. They seemed to have found something, Four carefully held out a potion. It was held carefully with a cloth. Four refused to touch it. “There's a potion here! Lots actually I've never seen anything like it!”

 

‘I haven't.’ Hyrule agreed. He sniffed it carefully. ‘Black. Smells like an incredibly strong health potion.’

 

“A health potion can't cause this-” Hyrule jerked up his expression fell.

 

‘I feel a portal! It will be here soon!’

 

“How soon? We can't leave without wild.”

 

‘Minutes- Time we have to go.’

Time locks up, mind frozen between the two possible choices. they couldn't reach wild, yet he would be alone-

“Time. We have to assume Wild is fine. We have to assume he will find his own portal. Let's move.” Warriors gently shook Time’s shoulder to make him refocus.

 

“Right. right. Let's go. Four can you collect whatever that is? We shouldn't leave it here to poison the Zora.”

 

“Got it!” The fires are kicked out, armor put on and bags packed. Time tried not to let himself get distracted as he collected Wild’s things too. Come on Wild please- please return.

He never did. The portal opened up against the stone wall beside them and Time sighed worry intensified.

“Come on everyone. Let's go. I just know we’ll be thrown right into a fight. Be prepared.”

 

Once out of the portal they found themselves in the dark. The only source of light, the full moon above them.

Waves crashed into sand around them and before them the moon slowly rose over a steep hill. The only way to go was up. Rocks allowed for natural cover but also likely hid their enemies...

 

Time almost relaxed once he heard the same roar from before. Wild was here. Somewhere in the dark. Still apparently mad out of his mind but here. Safe. For now. The sound of metal on metal made them twitchy. They struggled to light lamps and torches. Climbing up hill in the dark with this much cover was a death sentence. They would have to be careful.

 

Four groaned out from his place on the sand, face down.

 

Fuck right. The other magic users would be feeling terrible. Honestly, Time felt a little off balance himself.

“What do you think Wars.”

 

“Come on. Up you go. Don't vomit on me.” Warriors scooped up Four into his arms.

 

“We shouldn't split up. Carry Hyrule, Time. Wind help Leg. With any luck Wild will be back to normal soon.”

 

“I'm fine!” Legend though pale at least had enough energy to complain.

 

“Twilight go get Wolfe. See if he can calm Wild down. Or help him in the fight until we can make it.” Time ordered. Twilight didn't bother to sign a response and sprinted towards the sounds in the distance. His descendent looked ready to tear out some throats already.

 

The land around them was completely unfamiliar. Time hurried pushed himself. While Hyrule was the thinnest it wasn’t a piece of cake to carry someone up a hill. The creature must be large. It grunted as it was tossed about. The ground below them shook as whatever it was fell. A hinox maybe? The pig noise made it seem that way. Time didn't get a chance to see whatever it was. By the time they approached the nest of the creature it was already dust.

 

Wolfie barked as he hurried back to their side, only long enough to herd them in the correct direction.

 

“Up the hill more got it. Try to warn us if anything dangerous is waiting in ambush.”

 

Another bark before Twilight raced back up the hill faster than Time could ever hope to achieve.

 

Two wolves startled the group but seemed reluctant to attack. They stayed back until they passed. Time wondered if Twilight could actually warn them not to attack or if their large group actually scared the creatures.

 

“Holy Fuck!” Wind exclaimed as soon as the group crested the hill. Before them laid a camp in complete ruin. Fire spread across the grass and Wild had his teeth buried in the neck of a white moblin. He shook it violently until it darkened. It slowly turned into ash. Beside him Twilight ripped a yellow bird into shreds as well.

Time just stared for a moment. That was until Wild choked. The Zonai gagged and pulled away from the ash to be sick.

 

Black. Wild was gagging up thick black blood.

 

Time hurried forward to hold him up and push Wild’s thick red hair out of his face. Beside him Twilight whined loudly.

 

“Wild, tell me you understand me. Wild.” Time’s voice was harder than he wanted it to be, but the stress had got to him, okay?

 

‘Yes-’ Wild weakly signed between dry heaves. The smaller boy was hot. His fur toasty under Times hands.

 

“What can we do to help?” Shakily, Wild pushed himself up and reached to pull down the monstrously huge steak which hung from the monster's fire. Wild was lucky he didn't just fall into said fire.

 

“Wait- hang on wild that's not-”

Wild’s growl was low as he tore into the meat. His eyes were nearly black in the fire light, his pupils expanded far past their normal amounts...

 

‘Sick- stomach hurts.’

 

“Ruly?”

 

‘I'm here.’ Now that Warriors allowed it, Hyrule hurried to Wild’s side. The healers' hands glow softly with magic.

 

‘Home.’ Wild signed slowly. ‘My home. My house.’ Now that he had something in his stomach it was easier to think.

 

“Where?” Wild shivered as he pointed behind them, further up the hill. Time could see it. A strange perfectly square building in the distance.

 

“Come on then. Let's get you home safe. You can sleep this off.” Gently Time pulled Wild up onto his back. While it wouldn't be comfortable with his armor on, at least Wild would have a harder time running off like this.

 

‘Cold.’

 

‘Time.’ Hyrule hurried to walk just ahead of them so time could see his signs. ‘He has a fever. seems to be getting better not worse.’

 

“Thanks, Ruly. Wolfie. please scout ahead. see if anyone is there waiting for us.”

Twilight woofed his agreement and bounded up the last of the hill. Home. Wild would finally get to sleep in his own home. What would a Zonai home look like exactly?

Notes:

i am so excited i hope you guys love this as much did writing it! any idea what could have gone wrong with wild? :D anyways i live for comments and if you guys have any ideas id love to hear them!

Chapter 12: mistakes and apologies

It turned out Zonai homes were very open. Three stables made up the first floor and Time paused to take in the massive horses which nickered at the group curiously.

A much smaller golden horse with flowers in her mane nuzzled into Wild’s hair.

 

“Wolfe? Go get Twilight. I don’t want you getting kicked.”

 

The front door faced the nearby city, Time could see the lights from here. Within the house was more grass, a cooking area and… no way up. Four seemed to notice that too. Time could see the man as he ran around the house but… there was no opening to the second or third floor.

“Wild. Are you awake?”

Wild mumbled softly but otherwise didn’t react or open his eyes.

Blankets were pulled out and Time settled the poor Zonai up by the fire.

Someone had been here. Someone had kept the fire going, tended to the horses around them. Despite the hillside, the horses had fresh food and water.

 

“How is he.”

 

Twilight pushed forward and glared at anyone who tried to stop him.
"Sleeping.  He seems exhausted now."

 

‘There’s hylians down in that city. We might find some help there.’

Twilight signed checking Wild’s eyes. Still dilated black.

 

“Or we might put them in danger bringing Wild into a city like that.” Warriors shook his head as he worked to stir the fire up.

 

“Let’s… wait until morning. What do you think Hyrule?”

 

‘The magic is weaker. I think he will be fine by morning.’

 

“What about the potions any ideas about that? Where did he get them.” Legend huffed from the cabinet beside them. Legend dug through Wild’s things.

Rude. Hyrule carefully set out dozens of potions on the countertop.

‘Wild gave me these. Told me to hold onto them since I’m the healer. Should we not trust them then?’ Time shook his head. He tried to clear it. Too many questions and no answers because Wild decided now was a good time for a drugged nap.

 

“Don’t use them. Let’s all set up camp. I’m- this has all been too much. We all need rest. I'll keep watch.” Hopefully their brother would be back to his senses by then.

 

Wild slowly woke as the sun kissed the horizon. He rolled over and groaned softly from how swore he felt. Twilight laid beside him and Wind followed his movement to curl up against his back.

He… slowly Wild blinked up at his horse.

Hulk was calmly watched him. He wanted his apple. Wild always gave his horses apples every single time he saw them.

 

The Zonai had been bundled up tightly. Wild grumbled as he tried to shift but couldn’t. Had the others literally wrapped him up like a baby? His chuffed and struggled enough now to wake Twilight.

‘Wild? You okay?’

Wild grumbled as his chin was held, forced him to look into Twilight eyes. Normal big blue eyes looked back at the rancher.

‘Good. Let’s get you some water.’

 

“Ehhph.” Wild couldn’t sign like this. He needed up!

He whined softly but he only heard comforting shhhes from the rancher. Did they think this was funny?  Trapping- trapped. He was trapped and no one would help him. Wild let out a pathetic cry and fell still in his blanket. After a moment a jar was brought to Wild's mouth.
Wild slowly drank. He wondered why his mouth tasted so terrible... had he gotten sick? Why couldn't he remember?...

 

All around him the Chain was slowly woke. He tried to ask for help from first Hyrule and then Time. Why were they ignoring him? Wild pouted softly as his chin was once again held by Time.

“-with us?”

 

Oh. He wasn’t listening. Wild tilted his head and made another confused face.

“Nhooohh.” He absolutely didn't whine. They just wouldn't listen to him.

 

“Alright. Twilight help me unbundle him.”

Wild shook himself as soon as he was freed before he jumped up to go to his horse.

Hulk had to lean down to greet him and Wild held out his only apple to the big white horse.

Phantom and Zelda’s horse, Tempest would have to wait for theirs.

 

“-Wild!” Time came to his side. He held his elbow. Time was spoke to him gently but firmly like a child.

“Come on now focus on us. We’re worried about you.”

 

‘Sorry.’ Wild signed around Hulk’s big white head. Hulk loved hugs.

‘Hulk. Time. Hulk. We’re at my house.’

 

“Very nice. He is a very big horse. I wa-“

 

“Time. Hyrule says he feels another portal. We only got a few minutes again!” Legend interrupted and Time loudly groaned and slammed his face.

 

A few minutes?? Wild snapped back into focus. He realized he was about to leave with no gear again!

Wild sprinted to his cabinet and shoved a jar and a heavy bag at Legend.

‘Don’t spill it!’

He failed to give any of the Chain warning as he reached up to quite literally jumped through the roof into the rooms above. Wild winced at the loud bang as several swords and clubs fell over onto the floor. Whoops. He would clean those up later. The only thing he could justify carrying around without his purah pad were Zonai short swords and shields. They would be small enough to fit in a bag at least.

He didn’t normally leave armor in his home but he at least had his electric Zonai armor and sleep wear. It could at least change into something now when he had to wash up.

 

The very last thing he needed was hung up over his bed.  His original glider.  It wasn't in the best of shape but it would be better than nothing. Being without a glider almost made him feel naked.
Wild landed down beside his brothers outside his home. they seemed shocked by his glider.  If only he had enough time to go see Zelda! Why did Hylia have to drag him away from home as soon as he woke up??

He waved unhappily to Time.
'I got what I need.  I'm ready.'

 

"Come on then.  Everyone partner up and let's go."

 

"Man! I really wanted to see Dragon-Zelda!"  Wind whined and Wild nodded sadly only halfheartedly for Wind not to call her that. Her nickname is Flower.
He held onto Twilight’s hand as he entered the portal.

On the other side Wild hurried to help his brothers who didn’t do so well with the portals.

Hyrule and Four seemed to react the worst.

 

After a full minute of muttered complaints Four finally spoke up.

“This is mine. I don’t think we’re too far from my home actually. Wild- um… could you climb one of these trees?”

 

Wild nodded head lowered as he passed Legend his bags.

‘I’ll be right back.’

Why did Twilight and Time look… angry? Disappointed? Wild struggled to understand what had caused that. Claws dug into the nearest tree and he scaled up the side easily to overlook the dense forest. Four’s hyrule had even more trees than Wilds! It was actually impressive. The green rolled out across the hills like an ocean.

“Do you see any smoke?”

 

‘Yes!’ Wild fisted his answer wide so they could understand what he signed even at a distance.

 

“Which direction!” Wild pointed before he slid back down the tree.

 

“Just stay close until we get to Four’s home.” Time put his hand on Wild’s shoulder once he was down.

 

Wild’s fur stood on end, completely confused. Why was Time glaring at him. He couldn’t remember what he might have done to upset him. But… how had he found himself in his own Home? It had all happened so fast.

‘Did I do something wrong?’

 

“We’ll talk about it once we’re all settled in for the night.” Wild followed behind Time. He couldn't help but worry. The others were just as upset. He could see it in their shoulders and how they refused to look at him. It was Wild’s fault somehow. He just knew it.

Another part of him stressed about the lack of memory between last night and this morning. That had never happened before since the Resurrection Shrine. He struggled to remember what had happened. He vaguely remembered a small fire, Malon’s cook-pot and... oh right.

 

Wild stopped in his tracks. He blinked down at Wind who walked right into him.

“Wild! What’s wrong?”

 

‘My potions? Where did they go?’

 

“the black ones we found? these?” Four held out one of the potions and Wild nodded. Oh good they weren't lost back in Twilight’s Hyrule!

“Did someone give you these Wild? They’re full of dark magic. Dangerous.”

 

‘No! not dangerous- I didn't think...’ Flashes returned to him and his teeth ached as he remembered some of the hazy night. Suddenly he was glad they hadn't had breakfast yet.

‘I made them. I was testing new parts.’

 

“Are you telling us you made potions with those black blooded guts and then ate them without warning us?!” Warriors exploded now stand over Wild.

Wild struggled to meet anyone's eyes. He felt sick, his mouth gritty and bitter with iron. blood. The others had seen him like that. Seen him broken and feral right after time saw those awful ghosts- Wilds eyes snapped up to Time’s face, then jerked back down. Time was glaring at him.

 

“That was incredibly irresponsible Wild. We can’t-” Wild felt the pull of a memory and some weak part of his mind welcomed it. Anything but this. Anything but his father-

The memory kept pulling him in and then letting him go, making the man he had long forgotten and Time blend together.

 

Link stood head down, fist bawled up against his cheeks. He was crying softly. His father spoke to him firmly but not unkindly.

 

“I don't care if they're your friends you shouldn't push yourself this hard. Link come on let me see it.” His father’s face was tired, hard with worry as he inspected Link’s ruined lip. He had managed to bite right through it, sword fighting. Even if it had been a forest dweller’s sword it still hurt.

 

“S-sorry papa. It it was just an acce-accsa-”

 

“Accident. Yes, I know... but I know you, child. No one knows you like I do.” His father sighed and rested his forehead against his own. Warm. Just a bit sweaty from travel. “I wish you'd just enjoy your childhood. It will be short enough as is... Well, let's go. I have my medical supplies on me.”

Link found himself in bed. His father tenderly cared for him. The stitches hurt just as much as the hit had but his father gently scooped him up into his arms once he was done.

“Go on and take a nap Link. Someday you'll appreciate naps as much as your old father. Don't make that face. Even a hero needs his rest.”

Wild's mind struggled to pull away from the memory. He wanted to stay. Wanted to stay in his father's arms but something else moved in his own. Wolfe. His mind supplied. Wolfe was here and that meant this wasn't real. Not anymore.

Wild shook himself. He slowly took in the warm fire and blankets around him. Just like this morning Wolfe laid in his arms and whined for his attention. Wind curled up against Wild’s back. Where was he?... This room smelt of smoke, food, metal and of Four himself.

Time gently touched his shoulder. He startled Wild out of his musings.

 

“Are you okay?”

 

Wild nodded and took in Time’s features. He couldn't help but compare him to the father he couldn't remember the name of... That... couldn't be healthy.

‘I'm sorry...’

 

“Wild...” Time sighed and settled down beside him to pat the Zonai’s red hair.

“Us heros... have the most rotten luck don't we?... It's never that simple or easy. I forgot you've been alone. I made that mistake when I-... I'm sorry too. I should have spoken to you logically. Not taken my frustration out on you.”

 

Wild sniffled. He felt a bit awkward as he pushed up into Time’s chest. He silently begged to be held again.

‘My fault. Idiot. Never had a potion hurt me before.’ Time wrapped his arms around Wild to hold him tight. It felt right.

 

“You left, right? We were all waiting for you to come back. I sent the boys to sleep and suddenly we heard the most unhinged howling. You sounded out of your mind. We couldn't follow you and Hyrule told us a portal was coming. We only had enough time to pack before it came. I was so relieved when we heard you still on the other side. In your Hyrule. It took us some time to catch up to you. You were better. Aware enough to answer some questions and point out your home. You slept like the dead only waking up to complain that you were cold and ask for water. You still seemed out of it once we let you up.”

Time sighed and gently pushed Wild’s hair back from his face. “You really worried us. Then... well I'm sorry again. Just promise me you'll quit putting things you don't recognize in your mouth. Warriors told me about the mushrooms before.”

Wild nodded rapidly. He would never tell Time that he had purposefully made the potion as strong as possible. That the effect had been so strong because he had been so stupid.

 

‘More careful. promise. Can I have my potions back?’

 

“No. no more weird black blood potions. Got it? Only normal potions. There’s nothing weird in Hyrule's potions are there?”

 

‘No. All normal. Everyone makes them that way.’

 

“Good. You never said you could brew potions...”

 

‘Everyone can in my Hyrule. It’s normal.’

 

Time gently squeezed Wild before he let him go.

“Well then. Lay down. Everyone is resting after that... mess. We all deserve a day off. We should get a response from Dot by tomorrow.”

 

‘Food?’

 

“I can get you some. There’s a stew, Four’s grand-dad made it. He just wants to be called Smith.” Wild was grateful that after all that had happened they could actually take a moment to rest...

Notes:

hey guys! i wanted a calmer chapter after all the drama haha the next chapter will also be calmer because they really need some down time before the storm. i plan to update wake me next weekend. as always i adore all of you and live for comments. if you guys have any ideas or thoughts please feel free to leave them down below!

Chapter 13: Kneeding Swords

Smith was really nice in that quiet sort of way. It was clear where Four got his demeaner from. Though Four talked to himself a lot when he thought the group wouldn't notice he always seemed content to be alone. He didn’t go out of his way to speak to Wild at least.

 

“Wild!” Wind literally fell into his lap and almost spilt Wild’s food. It was a pleasant interruption to Wild’s thoughts. The Chain had slept most of the day. They deserved it after the long travel and fight yesterday. “You sly dog! You have powers you didn't tell us about! How did you jump through the ceiling of your house! Can you do that all the time?”

 

After he put his food down Wild nodded. It seemed that it was story time.

‘Time can you explain the potion first? Then I'll explain Ascend.’

 

“Right. Wild told me he made those Black potions. It's apparently normal in his world for anyone to make potions. He said he was testing it and hadn't expected the added effects.”

 

Wild nodded along. ‘I am sorry. I didn't mean to scare anyone. I just wanted something to do.’

Many in the group seemed interested and started to ask more questions but Wild silently asked them to wait and refocused on Wind who had started the conversation.

 

‘It’s a power only Zonai can do. Called Ascend. It's fun. Like swimming through energy. It has to be a flat surface though or I won't know where I'm going.’

 

“That cat thing can do that? All cat guys? You know what? I can't stand that! Not knowing how to say it I'm just gonna make random noises until I guess it- Aeh Beh Css-” Wild laughed. It was a long wait as Wind made every noise he could think of. The kid finally got to Zeh after a solid five minutes of guesses.

 

‘Yes!’

 

“Zeh- okay! What's next?”

 

“Oooowh-” Wild tried. He struggled to actually make the correct sound.

 

“Zooohh- Are we at least halfway done?”

 

‘close!’

 

Okay this was pretty fun. Wild giggled until Wind figured out the N and now, he only had to finish it. Wild pointed right into his own eye until finally Wind yelled.

“Zoneye! Zonai guys Wild is called a Zonai!”

 

“We listened. Unfortunately. It's been like ten minutes. Honestly watching you two do that was like pulling teeth.”

 

Wild snorted playfully and ruffled the kids messy blond hair. It was actually nice of the chain to hold themselves back. He wasn't sure it would have worked if all eight of his brothers had shouted noises at him.

‘Zonai and Hylian. Not important right now. You had questions.’

 

“Only a billion. How long have you been making potions?” Legend huffed and crossed his arms.

Wild blinked at Legend and tilted his head.

 

‘Eight years?... Since I woke up. They’ve never done that before. My potions are safe! That’s why I decided to test new.’

 

“How... how did you learn? How does everyone know how? You said the castle isn’t a thing. That it's broken. How does anyone know anything when there's no government?” Legend seemed frustrated about this fact and roughly pushed his pink tipped hair back.

 

‘How you learn?’ Wild let out a confused noise whine. ‘Pictures? Words? Talking? We all meet together at stables. Horse place.’

 

‘What...’ Twilight waved to get Wild’s attention away from Legend. ‘What goes into potions?’

 

Wild perked up and rocked forward as he answered. He loved to talk about cooking.

‘A power source, normally monster parts generally and nature. Normally bugs or lizards.’

 

Warriors made a loud noise of protest and shook Wild by the shoulders.

“No! No please don’t tell me those weird lizards-”

 

‘In- stop- stop- Wars! In the health potions. Very strong. Will heal well.’

 

“Hyrule just let me die. I don't want any potions. Just let me die.”

Hyrule snorted softly and rolled his eyes at the others. Most of the heroes also looked a bit green at the idea of eating monsters.

 

‘Your potions are weak. Mine heals better. I add food that have the same effect, so it heals for longer. You’ve always drank potions. Don't stop now.’ Wild calmly explained. They were just being dramatic.

 

“But I didn’t know!” Warriors groaned and lowered his head dramatically into his hands.

“How is it healthy to eat monsters?”

 

‘Power. Strength. They are created with magic. I don't like how they taste but I also don't like dying. I've done enough of that.’ Wild giggled to soften his joke and pushed Warriors off of him.

‘Legend, I gave you a bag and jar. Can I have it?’

 

“Good! It’s fucking heavy what is it? It stinks!”

 

Despite his huffed complaints Wild knew Legend showed he cared by protecting the jar.

‘This is Sir Rise Allot.’ Wild signed it slowly to make sure Legend understood.

‘Flower knighted him and everything. He makes bread.’

 

Legend smirked at him.

“You are so fucking dumb. Go on then. It better make the best damn bread being knighted.”

 

‘The Best!’

Wild made sure to make the dough first and left the bowl above the fireplace so it would proof faster. That done he had a few hours to kill before he had to make a proper dinner.

‘Four I want to see you hitting. Forgot name.’

 

“Blacksmithing? You want to see it?” Four lit up before him and actually smiled! “Well come on then!”

 

That was how Wild spent the rest of the evening. He watched and listened to Four talk about literally everything it took to make a sword. He had never heard the little hero talk so very much! Wild at least knew how to be a good listener after eight years with Zelda. He even hurried to scribble down notes for his princess. It kind of hurt to realize just how much his people had lost... so much art...

After Wild asked for a minute and excitedly pulled out one of his Zonai short swords.

‘Zonai weapon. You'll want to see! Very old!’ He signed excitedly before he activated the weapon.

The handle looked more like a wand at first, but it quickly expanded into a short sword made of light. The energy created the sharpest edge Wild knew, only beaten by the Master Sword herself.

 

“Th-that's incredible. Can I hold it?”

 

Wild let the blade disappear and passed Four the handle. He dug through his bag carefully and pulled out a Zonai shield next.

‘Same thing. Bigger when I use it.’

 

“Are these lines words?... They seem intentional. Runes that control the magic?”

 

‘Similar. I understand some of it. Different language not for people. I think it's for their robot companions. Their a bit... lost without clear instructions.’ Wild shrugged.

 

“Wild, I didn't think you had magic.” The sword required magic to activate.

Wild tilted his head and made a confused noise.

 

‘Not like Hyrule, no. I've used power before. Ultra hand? Ascend? Other stuff from friends.’

 

“But the portals don't affect you! They make Legend, Hyrule and myself sick because we have magic!”

 

‘Sick?... Yes. What about it?’

 

“Your stomach hurts too, after?...”

 

‘Yes?... I'm used to teleporting. Most of my journey was rapidly jumping from place to place. Portals are not different. Flower got sick too. I just know the group can't handle half of us sick.’

 

“I'm telling Hyrule.” Four smirked and jumped down to do just that.

 

‘No- Wait! -’ Wild felt like he was about to be in trouble somehow even if he wasn't sure why.

Notes:

As always a love hearing from all of you! Thanks so much for reading I cut the chapter a bit short because editing is rough right now ha please remember to take care of yourselves! Just like Wild everyone needs a break~

Chapter 14: red eyes

Dinner rolled around and Wild offered to cook for them all. Four’s old man seemed overwhelmed with eight strangers in his home and Wild gently shooed Smith to go sit with his grandson. Honestly, he was just glad the man wasn't terrified to be in the same room as him. Four was more than happy to brag about him. Apparently, he had been a high-ranking knight before he retired to focus on his blacksmithing.

The kitchen at least had enough supplies to bulk up their meal for ten.

While the meat cooked Wild made a small snack for Hyrule since the thinner man hovered near him. He totally wasn't trying to make up for stressing the poor healer earlier. It had been a long conversation between him, Time and Hyrule about pain tolerance and acceptable levels of pain verses discomfort.

Sour dough crepes and honeyed apples would be perfect for him.

 

‘Fairy food.’ Wild joked offering the plate after Wind ran outside. At least the boy wouldn’t try and bug Hyrule for some of the snack. Wide brown eyes stared up at Wild. It was the fear that made the Zonai pause.

‘What? Secret?’

After all only fairies could heal like Hyrule and Hyrule loved sweet things. Wasn’t the association obvious?

 

‘Yes!’ Hyrule hurried to sign, struggling to sign with his plate in his hands.

 

‘Okay? Won’t tell. Promise.’ Wild gently ruffled Hyrule's curly hair to sooth him. ‘Eat. Dinner will be done soon. Pretend I never said.’

 

Wild had made soup or rice balls often lately. Those types of meals were easy and filling. Now, however, he had plenty of sourdough starter and would enjoy having a proper stone oven to cook in.

Pizza. Lots and lots of pizza piled high with vegetables, mushrooms and Lonlon cheese.

Ten pizzas would be perfect. Enough for everyone.

 

There was even a stone in the oven to bake on! The sourdough starter was spread out on the stone and carefully flipped once toasty. He then covered it in rich mushroom sauce, toppings and cheese. The smell brought Twilight into the kitchen.

His brother hummed and crossed the room to start the cleanup process so Wild wouldn't kick him out. He knew Twilight just wanted his pizza first.

With a rumbling chuckle Wild did just that and allowed Twilight to claim a proper seat and get the first pizza.

Next, he called out and pointed to Smith.

‘Host gets to sit. Come. You too Four.’

By the time the table was full Twilight was finished and Wind rushed to take his seat. Wild knew it was good when Wind started his food dance.

 

The Zonai rumbled as he chewed his own pizza. They could have been thinner and larger, but the others seemed happy with them. The chain made loud noises and thanked him in turns.

‘You guys are doing dishes. Don’t make Smith clean up after us.’

 

Wild left them to it and decided to eat by the fire.

Warm, sleepy and full… They wouldn’t even have to set watches tonight… He was only half awake when the letter came from Dot. The Princess had written Four herself so they must be close friends.

“There’s evidence of monsters to the east. It’s normally quiet there… I think we should go in the morning.”

“Whatever you think is best, Four. You know your Hyrule.” Time nodded content to go back to his own journaling.

 

That reminded Wild he needed to write another letter for Zelda before bed. His first letter hadn't been answered but he hoped she had gotten it.

 

[Zelda,

I miss you. I'm sure you noticed things have changed at my house. We were dumped there for a night and I was a bit out of it. Please give the horses apples since I couldn't. I drank a potion I shouldn't have. I know I'm gonna be in trouble for that but let's hold that off until after this adventure. Anyway, I've kept notes on the new things I'm seeing and learning for you. Time, the sort of leader of this merry chain of Links, gave me a journal. It's been helping me keep track of what I'm doing and I've been practicing my drawing skills. They don't seem to realize I'm not Zonai and I don't understand enough of their sign to tell them.

I remembered my father. I must have been six maybe. Just a little kid playing hero with my korok friends, and I got hurt. I'll tell you about it later. Four promised to teach me some blacksmithing! OH and I found Wolfie again! You'll never believe this, but Wolfie was the hero of twilight. The old stories said Twilight had a wolf companion, but they were wrong. The hero of twilight can transform into a wolf at will. It's amazing having him back again.

There's only one problem. I’m pretty sure Wolfie we know is a spirit. Twilight is still alive and he doesn't remember me at all. We think it's because it simply hasn't happened yet, which means I have the chance to explain to him about me.

I'm going to leave this letter here. I'm sure there's more but I've already forgotten.

 

Xoxoxo

Link or Wild]

 

Clearing out the forest the next day had gone well, all things considered. Wild checked over his brothers making sure no one was hurt before he even realized what they were saying.

“It’s gone! It took off!”

 

The large lizard they had been so worried about?? Wild hurried forward quickly offering to go after it.

‘Don’t you dare.’ Twilight signed.

 

“If it can run away that fast, you won't catch up.” Four reassured calmly.

Wild frowned and stared out over the cliff side trying to see where the thing had gone while his brothers bickered. Monsters just didn't... disappear like that. Even worse there weren’t many places for a black lizard of that size to hide!

 

“I think it's about time we went over everything one more time. All the current information we have on our enemies. It's difficult enough without knowing their weaknesses.” Legend huffed as he cleaned off his sword.

Wild perked up and tried to focus enough to be useful to this conversation.

Notes. He would take notes. Just like when he used his purah pad.

“Fine then. I’ll start.” Legend cleared his throat before continuing.

“We’ve been fighting monsters across the ages picking up a hero every time we enter a new time. Something or someone is opening portals almost as soon as we defeat all the enemies. We’ve been given time to actually rest between these fights. Pretty suspicious honestly. Wild is the only exception to this. He ended up coming to us. Any idea why Wild?”

‘Big. Too big. You'd be traveling for weeks just to find a hylian.’ Wild had to shove his journal under his arm to sign properly.

 

“That makes sense...” Time hummed thoughtfully.

 

‘And... people want to kill me. The people who know me would never have told you where I was.’

 

“Excuse me?”

 

‘Me too!’ Hyrule raised his hand.

 

Legend smacked his face and tried to redirect the conversation back to what's important.

“It’s extra weird because there's this huge time jump between us and you. Any idea about that?”

 

‘Yes. King Zonai held Ganon. Trapped in castle remember? Ten thousand years?’

 

“Got it. I've noticed something else weird. There's always a sound right before a portal opens. This ringing.”

 

‘You heard it too?’ Twilight whistled for attention.

 

“Yes. Hyrule doesn't feel all of them coming. And it's clear these portals have been moving monsters around from all of our times. The fights have gotten harder too. almost like they were being tested. The monsters have been building things which means they've had enough time to do so before we show up. It's obvious it's something intelligent moving us around.”

 

“That's all true...” Warriors rubbed his chin. “These infected are new for all of us, right?”

 

‘I've seen something similar. Infected with Ganon's malice. It was red, covering them like sores.’

 

“Right... that sounds similar, but it doesn't look the same. Did it make them smarter? Stronger?”

‘Stronger. All of my monsters are this smart. It made them poisonous to touch too.’

‘That lizard though,’ Wild signed slowly. ‘That was new. Does anyone know about that?’

 

“It looked like one of my lizalfos but I’ve never seen one completely black like that. Those red eyes though...” Time shook himself. “I’ve only seen red eyes like that from a shadow. From a dark version of myself.”

 

Warriors nodded unhappily. “Let's hope were imagining that.”

There was a long pause, one long enough Wild looked up from his notes.

 

“We have to assume the worst case. What if some dark link is actually pulling the strings here? What if we just saw him. That lizard.” Legend’s voice was tight. Forcing out the truth no one else wanted to say.

 

“Then... We have to figure out how this lizard is moving us through time to stop it. It's not inherent magic if a link can do it right? It's gotta be some item on his person.” Sky pulled out his whip with such blind confidence. “If we have it then it will be easy to fight.”

 

“Have you fought a dark version of yourself Sky?”

 

“I mean... no... like what does that even mean?”

 

“All the darkness or evil within you can't touch the master sword. let's just say I was a very angsty child.”

 

“Not even the half of it.” Warriors' mutters with an eye roll. “So, who has fought themselves?”

Hyrule, Time, Legend and Wind all raised their hands.

 

‘I had a weird trance-dream once. A light spirit tried to warn me that if I wasn’t careful, I’d end up as one. Maybe. Dreams are weird.’ Twilight offered. ‘But I never fought myself, just saw three of them. Red eyes and everything.’

 

“Weird but okay.” Legend rolled his eyes before stretching. “Have we forgotten anything? It's not allot of info to go off of all things considered.”

 

Wild slowly raised his hand. ‘I don't think it's important, but I once had an outfit a statue of death gave me. dark skin, red eyes.’

 

“An outfit that made you look like him?... You've got the biggest eyes ever Wild that sounds horrifying.” Wind yelled playfully tugging on the Zonai's armor. “I bet you looked so cool!”

 

‘It was just something I could buy with souls. I didn't know what it was.’

 

“Alright. It’s shitty but if that’s all we got, that’s all we got.”

 

“Let’s set up camp. I know a decent spot.” Four offered and moved to take the lead away from the cliff face…

 

Down below a shadowy woman with white braids and bright red eyes watched them leave.

Notes:

Really sorry about how long this took. I really have no excuse. I love you guys though and I hope you enjoy this chapter! Comments and and kudos keep me alive ha

Chapter 15: Pink

Wild lifted his chin ear flicking as he heard Wolfe’s howl in the distance. After traveling through Four’s forest and starting the long process of clearing the woods of monsters the chain had begun to set up camp before night fall.

I’m here! I’m here! Where are you?

Twilight knew exactly where camp was why was he...?

Wild shifted his pot into the cooler coals to slowly cook while he is gone.

‘Time be back soon.’

 

“Alright. Don’t take too long. I can’t promise that soup will still be here.”

Wild snorted and paused only long enough to hide his signs from Wind. He loved his brother don't get him wrong, but he didn't know Wolfie and Twilight were the same person and Wild wasn't sure why his Twi was calling for him.

 

‘Wolfe is calling. I’ll go check.’

Most of the group was out and about, collecting wood and harvesting food. Wild had continued his firm demand that they help with the collection of food and cleaning after, since he had to do all the cooking.

 

Wild raced through the tree line and climbed over ruins to follow Twilight’s scent.

He only stopped when he saw a very familiar shape beside Twilight within the clearing below. Wild pulled out his bow as he fell, his focus slowing down time to a snail's pace. It only took a few moments for him to realize this creature was different than regular blupees.

The little blue rabbits always glowed with magic, but this one was dull and pink.

Twilight was very slowly raising his hand, trying to step in the way. Wild landed bow and arrow lowering a confused frown on his cat-like face.

 

“S-see! See I told you that crazy cook would try and eat me!”

 

Wild’s big blue eyes almost popped out of his head when the weird little blupee talked. His bow was shoved aside to hurriedly sign.

‘Twi what is that?’

“What never seen a rabbit before you-”

The rabbit was lifted up into Twilight’s arms which caused more fussing and cursing.

 

‘He- stop struggling. Stop. Sword. Wild we need Fi.’ Twilight had to sign with only one hand as slowly Wild approached drawing the sword in question from his back.

 

‘Why? What… Legend?’ The rabbit's scent hit the Zonai’s nose and he should have realized as soon as he entered the clearing. This was legend somehow?

‘What happened?’

 

“This asshole didn’t warn me he was carrying a cursed item- that thing that changes him into a wolf! It turned me into this. He said the Master Sword would transform me back- but I don't believe it!”

 

‘You know I wouldn’t eat a magical creature. I was just surprised. Blupee’s drop rupees if you hit them.’

 

“So what? You were just gonna shoot me for some green rupees!”

 

‘And blue and red!’ Wild snorted tugging legend into a tight grounding hug. for a moment legend allowed it before his complaining started up again about hot sweaty fur. It was a lie of course. Zonai didn't sweat from their fur.

The rabbit's yelling was cut off as the master sword was pressed against him.

 

Twilight half caught half dropped Legend. The rancher did help him back up as Legend rubbed his forehead.

 

“Fucking bullshit.”

Wild made a noise, struggling not to wheeze from how difficult it was to not laugh. Twilight’s pinched expression said he wasn’t doing much better. Legends hair was still the most violent shade of pink wild had ever seen.

 

"Fuck!  Oh, fuck how the hell am I supposed to hide this??"

 

‘It’ll fade! It’s not so bad right Wild?’ Twilight tried to reassure and Wild fought another laugh.

 

‘If you really hate it there’s a dye expert in my Hyrule! He can fix this. I know it.’

 

“Goddess, I swear if we don’t end up there soon- damn it!”

 

Twilight leaned down to scoop up an orange and black necklace. Wild stared at the necklace as Twilight carefully tucked it back around his neck.

‘I wonder what I would be...’

 

“A coyote or something I bet.” Legend snorted and finally stopped complaining and fixing his hair in his mirror shield.

“Thanks... I don't often have to rely on people, and you made the right call twilight.”

 

‘You’re welcome! Do... you want to try Wild?’

 

Wild hesitated really thinking about it and the consequences for mixing The Aspects Aura and dark magic... It /might/ free him from the armor... Or it might permanently change him once again.

‘Maybe later.’

 

Twilight whistled for the camp’s attention as the three of them returned to camp.

‘Look who we found!’

 

“Oh, my goddess!”

 

“You were just! How!”

 

“Yeah, yeah laugh it up! Get it out of your system now.” Legend sneered and huffed from his seat at the fire. His bright pink hair seemed to glow in the flickering light.

 

“Is that something I should know about?”

 

“No. It's a reaction to magic. Nothing happened.”

 

“But you-your so pink!”

 

‘Incredible!’

 

Wind ran to Wild and Twilight to try and bully them into answering for the Veteran.

‘Hey don't ask me! I don't sign good remember?’

 

Wild was only half listening to the group as he served the stew. Wars and Hyrule had been fighting without them?... It seemed Sky had been left behind due to his lack of stamina. He was angry at someone else this time so Wild wasn't too worried.

 

Later in the evening Wild switched his gear, enjoying the cool night air in his charged armor. He figured the group needed something to take their minds off of Legends pink hair. He really did like how the fabric flowed across his chest.

 

“Is that a girl's outfit wild?” With a snort Wild rolled his eyes at Wind and hung his Zonai knight armor up to dry near the fire.

 

‘This is the clothing of a Zonai King. I have worn Gerado clothing before! Nothing wrong with that.’

 

Sky had first watch given he fell asleep so easily but struggled to wake up for second or third shift. It was peaceful as the moon slowly rose above them, the fire crackled and Sky’s knife slowly whittled away at some soft wood.

 

‘Sky?’ Wild slowly asked from his perch on a fallen tree just outside of camp.

 

“Yes Wild?”

 

‘How can you tell when I'm signing? if you can't, see?’

 

“Oh that? Fi tells me when things happen around me.”

 

‘Is that how you wood cut?’ Wild didn't know the proper sign but that would have to do.

 

“Yes. She's telling me how deep I've gone. how it looks. if I were to be separated from her... well I wouldn't be exactly helpless but... I don’t enjoy it.”

 

After a few minutes to process that Wild slowly approached to sit beside the god slayer.

‘Can I ask some hard questions? About Fi?’

 

“I can try and answer.”

 

Wild turned towards the fire watching it for a moment before resting his chin on his knees and closing his eyes. for just a moment he wanted to understand what it was like for sky. if he had been blinded when he woke up?... what would that have been like?... would Wolfie had stepped up to be his eyes?...

‘Just by telling my story near her... all of us. unintendedly telling her exactly what needs to be done for our success.’

 

“I-I...” Sky’s foggy eyes widened, and he reached for the handle of his sword.

 

“Oh no I hadn't considered that! She... your right Shes listening. So, she would know about your adventures before you even started!”

 

‘it's okay. I owe her my life. She saved me... despite how awful it was... Zelda couldn't have held on so long without knowing that I would return. sure, a new hero could have been born but a new Zelda? If we both had died...’

 

Sky shook his head rapidly and rested his hand on Wilds. “I'm not getting all of that.”

 

‘That's okay. Fi will learn my sign. she’ll remember what I'm saying. There is a shrine of resurrection on The Great Plateau. There only the hero can be brought back even from the brink of death. Zelda will order me to be placed there and then will put you beneath the Great Deku Tree so you might heal...’

Wild’s hands stilled sitting limp in his lap for a time as he thought.

‘When I came back to her, she burned me like she didn't recognize me. like I hadn't earned her... or like I had dishonored her... why?’

Sky’s head tilted like he was listening to the sword which Wild assumed he was...

“Don't say that it’s not your fault! The Master Sword draws her power from us. A hundred years simply isn't enough time for her to heal so she drew on your strength. she says Shes sorry for the damage she caused.”

 

Wild slowly nodded, working to let that fear and guilt go. It wasn't his fault...

‘Thankyou Fi. for always being there. I know I’ve not always been the best... person. mistreating you.’

 

“...She broke so you wouldn’t. She’s always cared for you Wild.”

Wild leaned into Sky’s gentle hug hoping no one could see him crying. He had never thought he could have that... Family that would listen and comfort like this.

Notes:

Did you guys know pink wasnt always the color we know today? some of the oldest writing described pink as a yellowy-green color! As always I adore all of you and comments and kudos keep me alive

Chapter 16: Hurt

Wild was further away from the group when he heard the sounds of blades crashing together. He jumped from the tree, paragliding across the clearing. His bow at the ready to try and help Four. They were surrounded by skeletons and lizoufoz. Once Four looked like he could handle it, Wild pushed forward through the masses to focus on the real enemy. That same black lizard from before stood over Wind!

 

Arrows flew forcing some distance.

 

‘Behind you!’ Wild signed knowing that the master sword would translate and warn Sky of the danger. He simply didn’t have enough time to do more for them.

 

Their blades danced almost magically; the skill simply unmatched between the lizard and the god slayer. Wild was sure Sky would take this creep down but just as the master sword glowed to take the final swing the lizard seemed to create a double, disappearing into the shadows and racing away.

 

Wild had to twist and dodge away from his own fight.

 

“Ahh! Coward he is getting away again!”

 

Wild glanced back just long enough to see Twilight race through the forest on the back of his horse. The mare had come to them some time that morning looking rather messy and Wild had spent forever cleaning and feeding the horse apples with Twilight- now wasn’t the time to worry about them.

 

It wasn’t until most of the enemies had been handled that Wolfie chased the annoying boss back into the clearing. Wild cheered excitedly, tail swishing behind him and tripping one of the skeletons he was fighting.

Before his very eyes the creature pushed Wolfie back, transforming into some sort of knight the size of a Hinox! With a cry of alarm Wild tried to run to protect his brother and the most horrifying sound rang through the clearing.

 

He had never heard Wolfie cry out in pain before. He used to just… phase away any time he would have taken damage.

 

Wild cried out in sympathy and anger, powering though the newly formed skeletons to reach him.

 

He jumped off a ruin, pulling his glider from his back. He had to reach them. Warriors and Sky were already fighting to get to Twilight but…

Wild shook himself forcing his panic and emotions down until this as all dealt with. Just before he landed, he slowed, arrows flying until his stamina completely ran out.

 

The Zonai landed beside Wolfie, his fingers searching for any wounds. Scratches, a sword wound and a bite on his arm.

 

Wild only glanced up for a moment when fire swirled around the battlefield. It was from Time. He refocused on stuffing the wounds with clean cloth. He would carry his brother. The size difference was a little ridiculous, but he knew how important this was.

It was nothing he hadn’t done before. Wolfie often needed help climbing after all.

 

“Protect them!”

 

Wild felt relief sweep over him as Warriors hurried to push back the horde giving them a chance to start retreating.

 

Time was right behind him- Wild couldn’t speak like this, his hands buried in Wolfie’s fur.

 

“Move Wild! We got you!” Time roared over the sound of metal on metal.

 

Wild carefully retreated when he could until the three of them were outside of the fight. He could just see Sky protecting their rear over the bushes.

 

“Alright. No more secrets. Put the Rancher down Wild. Can you hear me, Twilight?”

 

Wild whined with Wolfie in shared pain. He knew exactly what this sickness felt like, and he was only half paying attention to Warriors exclaiming about the rancher actually being Wolfie. Like this was the time for that!

 

“How do we change you back Rancher?”

 

Carefully Wild pulled the master sword from his back resting the glowing blade against Twilight’s chest until the wolf twisted, the darkness letting go of his brother belatedly.

 

“Don’t move!” Time slowly helped Twilight sit up but Wild was already worrying again.

 

The sun was slowly setting, and it looked like a storm was coming in…

 

‘He needs a healer now. He will die from this Time.’

 

‘I’m fine!’ Twilight tried to refuse.

 

‘I will knock your ass out cold if you fight me. You. Will. Die.’ Wild turned back to Time after he finished threatening his dearest brother with firm rigid signs.

 

‘He needs serious healing. A potion and fairy won’t work. The wound will bleed until he gets proper herbs or sun exposure.’

 

“I didn’t understand all of that.”

 

Time frowned anyway and dug out a fairy from his pack.

 

They all watched as the fairy attempted to heal Twilight but just as Wild had predicted she returned to Time chiming about being unable to help him.

 

“H-his wound isn’t closing…”

 

‘Hyrule. Someone needs to get Hyrule, and I’ll take him to the nearest town.’

Wild hands shook as he forced Twilight to stay sitting. ‘I’ll carry you.’

 

“We’ll send him. Let’s go. Warriors you should go with them. Protect them. I’ll take this thing down.”

 

‘The weapon. It caused this illness. Do not get hit. Don’t touch it.’ Wild warned before lifting Twilight up. The man was barely protesting at this point slumping over Wild’s shoulder. Wild fully expected him to be unconscious within the next few minutes.

 

The Zonai pushed himself through the forest and onto the main road. The rain started to fall just as he and Warriors entered the town. Thankfully Warriors was able to calm the guards. Wild forced himself on, ignoring how gems were handed to the guards to pay them off.

 

Water dripped down onto the inn’s floor and Wild pushed past to claim the only room with a key. He could hear Warriors tossing down money and telling the inn keeper not to worry about anything.

 

Wild fell to his knees at Twilights bedside whining softly into the other man’s limp hand.

 

He hadn’t been paying attention. He hadn’t run after his brother into the forest, wrongly assumed Twilight couldn’t get hurt. He wouldn’t run off alone after that monster and get hurt like this…

 

Tears fell onto Twilight’s skin before his hand twitched. He rubbed Wild’s soft head playing with his red locks. Twilight, normally so warm and sun kissed from farm work now laid there shaking a pale… They stayed like that until Hyrule finally burst into the room.

 

‘Wild what is this?’ Hyrule signed as he checked over the unconscious hero.

 

‘We dealt with similar illnesses. Caused by Ganon. It feels and smells the same even if it looks different.’

 

‘Can we cure it?’

 

‘Yes. Sun exposure or Zelda. Holy Light. I don’t have the herbs to help him. They only grow in the sky.’

 

“So, what you’re saying is he only has to hold on until morning.” Warriors pressed for more information. When had he even come into the room?

 

‘So long as the sun comes out. The storm is getting worse. We got potions and fairies and Hyrule’s healing. He only has to survive.’

 

The hours passed slowly, Wild curled up between Twilight and the wall refusing to leave his side for even a moment as Hyrule pushed his magic into the hero of twilight… His potions stock would be completely gone by the end of this. He couldn’t eat and he doubted the others would feel like it either.

 

Time pushed his way into the room and Wild weakly greeted him from his spot on Twilight’s chest. He was softly purring, instinctively trying to help heal his brother. Any time he started calling for his family or signing things he probably wouldn’t want to say, Wild gently shhhed him. His hands holding Twi’s own. Twilight wouldn’t want to say these things…

 

Hyrule was tired and no amount of stamina potions would help with mana depletion.

 

“How is he?”

 

‘Tired. He is seeing things. Confused. Won’t eat or drink anything. Fever.’

 

“Is anything working?”

 

‘My healing spell is holding it back, I’m not sure how much…’

 

‘He only has to hold on until the sun comes up.’ Wild signed gesturing to the window behind him.

 

“Just until morning?... Can we do anything?”

 

‘He needs… Hope. He needs to see us. Know he isn’t alone. Try not to listen to him. He just wants his family.’

 

“I’ll get the others. They are drying off.”

 

Morning finally came and Wild moved to open the window to make sure that the very moment the rising sun hit Twilight that he would get every bit of it. The tension was overwhelming. What if this one time he was wrong? What if it was his fault Twilight wouldn't make it. Wouldn't wake with the sun...

 

‘Hyrule please- now. Wake up.’ Wild gently shook the healer and jerked out of the way when he rushed to Twilight’s side looking frazzled.

 

Finally, now in the sun, the healing begun its work. Hyrule’s cry of surprise and joy startled Wild. The traveler never made any noise!

 

Wild slowly nodded off with his head in Twilight’s lap. Twilight was awake. He was aware and even eating the simple broth Wild had made him. All was right with the world. The chain talked in low murmuring voices about what to do from here and about the shadow… Honestly Wild couldn't care about any of it. The tension had finally left him and a morning nap by his brother sounded heavenly...

 

Wild sat up sharply when Legend yelled.

 

“Portal! Right no-”

 

He fell. The bed completely disappeared beneath him, and Twilight was ripped away.

 

Wild fell face first into a strangely familiar stone.

 

Black wrapped tightly around him, and it made it impossible to move as the Zonai knelt before a woman. Her long white hair curled around her grey face, those big red eyes staring into his own. Wild shivered trying to remember where he had seen those eyes before.

 

“Wild! Get away from him!”

 

Time screamed from behind him, Wild assumed he was also struggling against something as well. More of these strange shadow tentacles?...

 

“I’ll take this…”

 

The woman pulled on his clothing, her magic twisting out and Wild felt something snap back.

 

The aura left him and Wild heard several gasps of alarm.

 

He couldn’t think. The pain wrecked him as he was tossed into- Warriors caught him carefully hugging the very Hylian Wild to his chest.

 

“What did you do to him?!”

 

“You will be quiet unless spoken too or I’ll gag all of you. How can anyone have a villain’s monolog if the hero never shuts up?”

 

The Shadow smiled, showing off her sharp dagger like teeth as she turned to look at Time. Time was held against the base of a very familiar statue of Hylia by more of those black shadow tentacles. This statue Wild knew. It was the very same statue that rested within the forgotten temple and he slowly realized that was where they were.

 

“Now… Time… We have so very much to talk about.”

Notes:

plotttzzzzz! i hope you guys enjoy the twist~ i had to change the location she brought them lol thats the real reason this took another week because i had to actually remember what the temple looked like ha
as always i adore you guys and i hope you enjoyed it even if i struggled with twilight's suffering. lol poor boy didnt get much more than broth before he fell face first into concrete

Chapter 17: Dinkle's Tirade

"Am I allowed to speak then?  Or will you gag me too?"
Time huffed and glared daggers at the shadow. He still couldn't move, held too tightly against the statue.

 

"Just don't interrupt me.  Explain to me Time."
The woman sneered his nickname and leaned into his face. Her hand rested almost casually on the statue by his head.

"Why in Hylia's name did Twilight run off alone?... Wasn't I so kind giving you brothers?  Making sure you were together? I haven’t even had the chance to collect everyone yet and you're already trying to die on me!”

 

"What?" Time blinked honestly confused. Wild couldn't blame him. She almost sounded like... a mother nagging her unruly children.

 

"Why did he run off alone!  It's your fault he didn't understand how dangerous I am!  It was your job to inform him!  You failed him by hiding behind your lies and masks-"
She poked Time hard in the chest and looked like she was struggling to control herself. Her hands were locked in fists like she might hit Time at any moment.
"You act like it's to protect the group- that little rule that you made.  Really, it's to protect you- you selfish- hypocrite-"
The Shadow forced herself to breathe and pinched her nose.

 

"What's going on?"

 

"Isn't it obvious?"  She waved back at the chain.
"Or are you too stupid to see the gift I've given you?  Instead of deciding to become a better man and open up to the only people in this entire universe that have a hope of understanding you, you lock up creating barriers between all of them. Made it some sick game of secrets! Who can keep theirs the longest!”

 

Wild met Time’s eyes and tried not to show how much he was suffering there on the floor in Warriors’ arms. The pain seemed to radiate from his bones, pulling on his scars and twisting up his arm and leg like fire.
How had he managed to do anything before the Goddess blessed him with the aura? And by the goddesses Hylia had blessed him. He firmly believed that now with this sharp reminder of how he had been.
"Teh...Time..."

 

The Shadow’s arm jerked out to wrap her darkness tightly around Legend who had been trying to subtly pull something from the bag at his waist. Of course, Legend would be the only one to keep something useful on him at all times. The Vet struggled but could do nothing more than that as she approached his prone form.

“We’re going to change that. Now. You’ll start our little therapy session, Legend. You’re going to tell everyone about your first little adventure, or I’ll send you to the one place you don’t want to go. Do it and I’ll send you wherever you want.”

 

“Why me?” Legend spat at her when she grabbed his chin. Instead of hitting her it passed right through her face landing on the ground behind her.

 

“Because I know you. I know if you don’t start, you’ll never catch up. You’ve got too much to talk about and tell the whole truth. Everything.”

 

“Not much of a villain, are you? What? gonna torture us with therapy?”

 

She giggled and twisted her braid around her finger playfully.

“On you? It would probably be rather effective! But no… you are right, I’m not much of a villain… I never have been.”

She stepped back, melting into the shadows and then slowly the darkness that held them faded into nothing.

 

“Wild!”

Wind ran forward slamming into his side. Fuck that hurt. Wild grit his teeth from the rough treatment.

“Are you okay?”

 

“Don’t crowd him- Hyrule.”

 

Hyrule shook his head after a long minute. His glowing hands were painfully bright in the darkness of the forgotten temple.

‘There’s nothing I can do- he isn’t wounded-’

 

“He is in pain!”

 

Wild only realized when Warriors wiped his cheeks that he was crying.

“Mm… my armor-”

 

“The thing she took off you? Did that do this?”

Wind hurried to their things, finding the strange Zonai armor on top. Wind only spent a moment inspecting the plates. The faces of the owl, dragon and boar set in tarnished zonaite too interesting now to ignore. The Shadow must have tossed it down before she left. All of their things were jumbled together in a big mess on the temple’s stone floor.

“Here! - This is your armor, right?”

Wild clutched the metal to his chest but didn’t put it on. Not yet. Instead, he looked to Time.

 

He was paralyzed; trapped between the pain, the need to speak with his brothers after so many months of silence and his mouth only gaping open like a fish. It took him a solid helpless minute to remember he could still use his hands. They understood most of his sign at this point.

‘I tried to tell you I’m Hylian.’

 

“Yep. We’re all idiots.” Legend sighed and slapped his forehead. Most of the Chain huddled together around Wild making the stuffy stone room that much warmer but Wild felt they needed it. This- that dark creature had shaken them.

 

“Are you going to be okay Wild?” Time quietly asked, hand squeezing his good elbow. Only then did Wild remember he was only in his underwear, and he flushed a deep red.

 

‘I’m fine. Armor will help. I want to talk but I can’t.’

 

“Breathe don’t force it. Close your eyes.” Warriors whispered softly and after a tense moment Wild followed his directions.

“Breathe.”

 

“W-we are in my Hyrule. This is the forgotten temple.”

 

“Are we safe here?”

 

“Inside this room and behind the statue of Hylia. Yes.”

 

“Then let’s set up a proper camp.”

 

“It’s not your fault.” Wild opened his eyes to stare Time down.

“You didn’t cause any of this. That Shadow did.”

 

“I need to think on it.”

That was fair. Wild knew how hard it was to let go of the idea that everything was your fault. Even when it wasn't actually your fault. It seemed it was a part of the curse that was being a hero.

 

“I want My Zelda’s name to be Flora. It's her middle name. And she’s not a dragon anymore. I fixed that.”

Wild mumbled as he laid down on the floor.

 

“Are you sure your fine Wild?”

 

“I’ll put on the armor, and I’ll be back to normal. I just don’t know how she took it off.”

 

“With magic. She pushed it into you.” Legend huffed. “I can probably do the same.”

 

Wild nodded and closed his eyes as he shifted to put on the Ancient Hero's Aspect. The plates only needed to be wrapped around his waist with the belt that held them together and Wild would be a Zonai once more. Gasps echoed around him despite his brothers having some warning. Cold hands buried into his fur and Wild turned to meet Hyrule’s gaze.

‘I’m okay. Just tired…’

Twilight stayed by his side. Both of them allowed the chain to fuss. After all Twilight had only just recovered enough to stand this morning and Wild… well…

Even with the Aura protecting him from the chronic pain the mental weight of it still hung around him. Even feeling it for those short few minutes had wrecked him making Wild wish for a long rest.

Yet if he didn’t go out with someone the others would be limited to just bread tonight. Once the camp was finally set up Wild waved for times attention.

‘Someone should come with me. We need food. I know where.’

 

“Are you certain you’ll be fine?”

 

‘I’m just tired. I don’t want to be hungry and tired.’

Time sighed and looked to the others to volunteer.

 

“I want to go!” Sky raised his hand and pulled both of the master swords from the pile. “I’m used to the heat...”

 

Four moved to join them and collected his things from the pile of equipment.

“Me too. It’s better I go. Keep these two out of trouble.”

 

‘It’s safe enough.’ Wild assured and accepted his sword from Sky.

 

Four shifted through his bag. Frowned then checked again. He dug through the whole pile next, looking into bags and finally turned to the group which now stared at him.

“The black potions are missing. They were in my bag.”

 

“What??” Legend huffed and ran forward to check for himself.

 

“Perhaps the Shadow took them for some reason? Probably not a great thing for an enemy to have...” Wind offered unhappily.

 

“What I’m hearing is we’ll be facing black blooded monsters with healing potions that cause uncontrollable rages.” Warriors rubbed his forehead hard, looking like he might be fighting a headache.

 

“Yeahhhh thanks Wild!”

 

Wild put his head in his hands unhappily rumbling.

Notes:

As always I cant wait to hear what you guys think X3 I really pushed myself to get this out today because I couldnt leave you on the cliff hanger haha comments make me so so happy!

Chapter 18: Not Evil?

Wild frowned down at his sword trying to come up with a plan. His mind was foggy. His thoughts felt trapped within black tar. He wrote down notes on exactly what to do. Otherwise, he would forget as soon as a new thought came. Look he hadn't slept all day, they had fought a horde of monsters, stayed up all night and then the adrenalin rush from that shadow? Yeah, Wild had nothing left to give.

First...

Wild waved Sky and Four to follow him and he helped them climb up behind the statue of Hylia. A door awaited them, hanging open on ancient rusted hinges.

Within his brothers gapped around a stone room, the familiar lotus in the center which once held the secret stones of the sages and just to the right...

Wild padded straight to the grave and quietly knelt. He would always take the time to offer a prayer for Zelda’s adopted mother figure.

 

“Who... was this person to you?” Four quietly asked. He knelt beside Wild to gently pet the soft yellow flowers.

 

‘Queen of Zonai and Hylians. Flora’s mother. Good woman. Killed by Ganon.’

 

“I'll offer my prayers as well.” Sky quietly murmured from behind them. His strong hand felt grounding on Wild’s shoulder.

Wild brushed away the dust and signed an apology to the stone. He promised to replant new flowers for her soon. He hated it but Sonia would want them to have some way to protect themselves. This was the only cure for the black blood on the surface for miles.

 

‘Hold onto these please. Important.’ Wild passed the three flowers to Four not having enough room in his little bag to hold them.

‘Come. Let's look at the map room.’

 

“The what room?”

 

‘Map. Come.’ Wild showed them into the last room pointing out the map within. Four nodded and ran off. He quickly returned with Legend at his side.

 

“Yes! Good job Four. I'll get this down on paper!”

 

‘It's slightly off. It was made based off Flora’s memory.’ Wild warned. ‘Close enough for our use though... This is only a third... It doesn't cover the sky islands or the depths.’

 

Once back in their little camp site Wild waved to their leader.

‘Time. Come look. Four show him the flowers?’

Four held out the rich yellow flowers so the chain could see before putting them back in his bag for safe keeping.

‘These are Sundelions. They can likely cure the Illness Twilight healed from.’

 

“That's good. That’s really great.” Time let out a long sigh and rubbed Wild’s red hair.

“How is it used?”

 

‘Potions or I could dry them with food. That way they won't go bad. Let's go. Sky. Four.’

 

Wild stared up at the roof of the forgotten temple trying to decide on how to actually get his brothers up the wall with him. They would never let him go exploring right now by himself. That much was obvious from how Time and Twilight’s eyes followed their little group. Some part of him felt that was a load of dondon shit. Twilight was the one who actually got hurt. They needed to focus on him right now.

He sighed and found a boulder which he could control with ultra hand.

‘Who’s first? I'm going to lift you up.’

 

“I'll go first. I can climb and glide with my cape.”

Once Sky was sitting on the boulder Wild carefully lifted it up until Sky could easily jump onto the Wall. He then repeated it for Four. The Zonai didn’t even bother for himself instead just climbing right up the side of the runed wall.

 

“Over here.” Four slid across the wall carefully waiting for the other two to follow.

“Promise you won't tell anyone and I'll show you something I can do.”

 

“What? What is it??” Sky gasped excitedly smiling at Four.

 

“Promise. Both of you. I'll tell the others when it's my turn for group therapy.”

 

“Got it! Promise right Wild?”

 

‘Hey, I couldn't tell even if I wanted.’

 

“I can shrink down to about... this small. Instead of worrying about me keeping up, I could ride on one of your shoulders.” Four showed about the size of his palm in measurement.

 

“What?? Really??”

 

“Quiet!” Four hissed clapping his hand on Sky’s big mouth.

He could hear one of the others calling if they were okay and Wild took a moment to look back into their room and offer a thumbs up.

 

‘Don't worry! They are just... scared of jump. All good!’

 

“I'm going to make myself small now.” Four whispered looking pointedly at Wild.

“Your fur would make it easy to stay on.”

 

‘I'll keep you safe!’

Wild jumped and climbed across to stand next to Four.

He couldn't help but get excited as well, watching Four focus. The shorter man had his head tilted down, his eyes closed as he softly sung under his breath...

He shift forward as the smith slowly shrank down, down... down... Wild offered his hand furry hand to the tiny little smith. His little squeaky voice was just adorable if a little hard to hear...

 

“Just don't drop me!”

 

‘No. Never.’ Wild signed one handed. He could barely feel Four as the smith crawled into his hand. He slowly lifted him up to stand on his arm bracelet. It offered a perfect place for Four to stand and hang on!

‘Hold onto my fur. I promise I won't let you fall.’

 

Wild pulled out his glider and nodded to Sky.

‘Let's go.’

 

“Alright! But First are you really small small Four? Can I feel?”

 

“I am not a doll! No! You can not Feel me.”

Wild stifled some laughter and barely gave them any warning as he jumped from the wall.

He flew down and to the left excitedly landing right on a lizard and collecting it.

They really needed potions so this was a huge score!

“I'll stay small until we need to fight! It looks like there's another hole.”

 

He nodded glanced up at Sky and rumbled to help him land beside him.

‘Look mushrooms!’

 

“Eh... Are there other things here? We've been eating allot of mushrooms lately...”

 

‘Oh yeah. Fruit.’ Wild showed them around the ruins finding arrows, some more mushrooms and ice fruit. I could do a pie or simmer it into jelly or fruit jerky...’ Wild got distracted carefully collecting the cold fruit.

There was just enough to make food for everyone within the temple... They wouldn’t even have to leave...

 

Now that there wasn't anything else to worry about Wild mentally checked out.

He went through the motions only vaguely aware as he cooked dinner.

It wasn’t until the conversation turned more serious; did he check back in.

 

“That Dark looked like Linkle.” Warriors started between bites.

“My adopted sister of sorts. She’ll be happy.”

 

“Why?” Four asked frowning at him.

 

“She insists she’s a hero. Even with you know.” Warriors waved at himself.

“I’m right here. I’ve never seen a shadow take the form of anyone but a hero so… maybe she’s right.”

 

“I’m sorry, I’m still really confused. So that Shadow was the one we’re going after?” Sky asked from his seat.

 

“Looks like it… only, I’ve never heard it talk before.”

 

“She. Sometimes they talk. Most of them are pretty polite.” Legend corrected sharply.

 

“So… She admitted to teleporting us around. It’s not Hylia's doing… she also mentioned she needed us.” Four slowly reaccounted.

 

“So does that mean she’s not evil?” Wind asked sounding far younger than he was when he asked the question.

 

“Don’t be stupid-” Warriors shook his head only to be interrupted by Hyrule.

 

‘My Shadow wasn’t evil.’

 

“Not evil?...” Four looked strangely relieved at Hyrule’s statement.

“How so?”

 

‘… He was protecting the Tri force from me. He may have stabbed me, fought with everything he had but he was good. Summoned by a Sage to test me.’

 

For a long minute only the sound of Wild’s charcoal could be heard in the stuffy room.

“My Shadow wasn’t evil per say either. My Shadow was summoned for chaos. To slow me down… In the end he sacrificed himself for me.” Four admitted softly.

“It’s not easy for me to talk about.”

 

Twilight reached over, squeezing Four’s shoulder.

 

“So, what we're all deciding is, this is all a bit bigger than we thought. Maybe this Dark isn’t evil?” Legend pressed for the truth, feeling it out in his mind. “It makes more sense then why we aren’t all dead. I mean... it would be so much easier to fight us on one by one than bringing us all together like this. If she considered us her enemy? This would be just stupid.”

Tense looks were shared across their little fire as Hylia- or at least the oldest statue ever created of her, watched over her chosen heroes...

Notes:

im strugglinggg lol wild's mental disconnect is actually mine lol i had fun writing with everyone during the write-a-thon with hotcheetohatred notfreya and all the others~~ but i wont lie i pushed myself too hard ha as always love you guys and i cant wait to hear your thoughts!

Chapter 19: Therapy with Legend-part one

Silence hung in the air again so long that Wild ran out of things to write.

“Legend. What are you going to do?” It was Wind who finally asked what everyone was thinking.

 

Legend bit his lower lip, refusing to meet anyone's eyes.

“I’m not sure.”

 

“Well! How bad can it be? We’ve all kinda went through it.”

 

“This Shadow is clearly listening. She wants to know what we’re capable of?”

Wild took note of how Legend kept glancing at Time too…

 

“So, we’re just gonna wait it out and you’ll be punished for it or something? Fuck that-”

 

“Wind!”

 

“We’ll fight even if they know our moves! We’ll get faster! Better!” Wind had gotten up fists held up like he was getting ready for a real fight.

 

“Given how effectively they trapped us, it’s unlikely that they want us dead. It might be okay…” Four offered, voice soft and low.

Again, Legend searched Time’s expression before lowering his eyes and frowning at the floor.

 

“I didn’t want to tell you lot. I still don't want to tell you. It’s nothing personal. It’s just… messed up. I... I'm going to find out what exactly she meant by everything... I’d rather jump into a campfire than talk about this so if you lot don’t stay quiet until I’m done…”

The silence that followed was thick.  Wild carefully shifted to lean against Twilight.
Legend seemed locked within himself, mouth opening and closing again as he struggled to start.
He hated to see his brother like this.

 

“I had a dream one night. My s- Zelda called to me in my dream. She told me a very bad wizard named Agahnim had kidnapped her. She begged me to save her and when I woke up my uncle was in his armor. He told me to go back to sleep... but he never came back. I took his lantern and went after him... I found my uncle... I took his sword and shield and... I never did find out who cut him down...”

The silence stretched on and around them, Legend clearly lost in the memory. Finally, the vet shook himself and continued.

The guards weren't in their right mind, and they nearly killed me before my journey even started. I got the princess out of the castle through a secret tunnel, and I left her with one of the Priests. I was given a stupid run around to find this weird elder in a cave who told me I had to collect these three pendants which represented the Tri force and the elements. Only then could I pull the Master sword and go after Ganon. That Wizard kidnapped the descendants of the Sages -just some little girls- and Zelda got kidnapped Again. Maybe killed. I don't know. I killed him the end and then the Tri force spoke to me. I made my wish to put everything back to how it should be. Everyone came back and everything was fixed. The fucking end.”

The portal opened within moments of Legend’s story barely giving anyone a chance to react or say anything. Wild hoped wherever they were going, good or bad, that it would be cooler. Maybe somewhere they could sleep- that was probably too much to ask for.

Legend looked the most nervous as the group collected the last of their things.

 

“Leg...” Wind worried his lip beside the grumpy hero.

“Are you sure about this?”

 

“I'd much rather it be me punished than one of you. We need to know what the rules are. What the whole truth is.” Legend lifted his fingers to put quotes around the words.

“Don't worry about it... She didn't specify say how many chances I get, just that when I do tell the truth I’d go where I wanted Which is obviously home.”

 

“Soo... This is a puzzle?”

“A word puzzle but yes... a puzzle.” Legend shifted his bag and moved to be the closest to the portal.

“Ready guys?”

Tense nods of the chain had him turning around to go through.

Their grouping had changed a bit, giving some relief to the group's weakest members.

Their hardest hitters at the moment, Time and Sky walked through after Legend, were ready for a fight and to defend the others as they followed.

Then Warriors would come through with Twilight. Followed by Wild and Hyrule and then

Wind and Four.

As much as Wild wanted to stay with Twilight he had to recognize that his fighting style was more of blow things up and ask questions later and less guard and protect. Plus, Hyrule was exhausted he needed just as much help, so he let it go.

His heels dug into the sand on the other side, ears flicking as his eyes adjusted.

The ocean. They were on a tiny little island maybe the size of his living room back home.

It was literally that small and Wind and Four were bumping into his back and now Hyrule and Four were both vomiting into the sand, and Legend sat half in the water pulling harshly on his bright pink hair.

Wild stumbled more accidently getting pushed by Time who got shoved by Wind.

 

Legend ran out into the ocean staring out at the stars above them.

“That Bitch! That fucking-” Legend yelled over the chain’s cacophony and rapidly slammed his fist into the coarse sand.

“Everyone Shut The Fuck Up. It’s still story time with Legend apparently!”

Notes:

poor legend~ he has gone through so much special thanks to those who helped me with the lore i started to play his first game but didnt have the time to finish it :( anyways the boys are beyond tired and now very wet! :D as always love you guys and i cant wait to hear what you think~

Chapter 20: Therapy with Legend-part two

“You Fucking Bitch! Just let me know when I've given up enough of myself huh?! Huh??”

Only the ocean could be heard for a long minute as the eight other boys struggled to find places to sit in the cold, wet sand. They had never been in such a small space before and Wild was tempted to just go into the ocean for a swim. As much as he loved his brothers it was claustrophobic being touched on every side like this.

Wild was very aware of the fact he and Twilight were put in the center of the tiny island for their safety. He simply didn't have the willpower to care anymore.

 

“Fine. Fine.” Legend shook his head and roughly unclipped his sword from his back. It rested on his lap and almost dipped into the sea water for a moment.

Legend pulled out each of his items from his first adventure explaining what each one did and how he got them. The challenges he faced and the monsters along the way. Wild couldn't help but shiver as Legend described the Lazer Eyes in the walls...

 

Legend stood up to pull out a pendant from an inside pocket of his kilt. It was a shiny dark blue mermaid tail, the size of his fist.

“This is the reason I don't wear pants. As long as I'm wearing that if my head goes under water, I'll transform into a sort of merman. It’s called the Mermaid Suit.”

 

“What??” Warriors exclaimed finally breaking the Chain’s silence. He was quickly shhhed by three different people.

“What! He can't just say he becomes a fish person and not show us! Let me guess your pink as a Merman, aren't you?”

 

Wild could hear Legend’s teeth grinding together. That couldn't be healthy.

 

“Fuck off. I'll show you in /fresh water/. Tomorrow. I am not going out into the ocean alone. So shut up! There's more... This is my Master Sword. She practically raised me after... well... It wasn't long before I realized her soft chimes had meaning. A pattern...” He lowered his eyes and gently wiped some water off her handle.

 

“But she doesn't look anything like Sky’s sword!” Wind called out from his spot in Warriors’ lap.

 

“I know. At one time she did look like yours but I spent a long long time and money upgrading her and giving her energy, gold dust and so many blessings...”

 

Legend looked around them waiting a tense moment. He looked... defeated as he looked back down at Fi...
"The Sword you carry Sky. She was a mess. Forgotten and rusty... But she still worked when I cut Ganon down. I was twelve.  I had never held a real sword before.  Never told anything about anything important.  My only clue that I might be in for a hard life was my name.  My stepfather, The King named me.  I believe he named me Link as a curse.  He wanted me to die young, like the hero because I am a bastard child."  Legend kept his gaze low, staring at his sword.
"The Hero who died at such a young age and failed to get the Master Sword."

 

"No." Time responded slowly, his expression dropping.

 

"I didn't want to tell you.  Time you've gone through so much and..."
Wild looked between them taking in the guilt in Time’s face, the regret in Legends. They’re normally stoic and snippy vet was now almost pleading for Time’s understanding.

 

Twi locked up beside him.

Shit. Wild leaned in harder against the Rancher’s side, trying to help calm the hero of Twilight with soft warm purrs.

“I believe my world and Hyrule's are what happens if you fail Time. The Ganon you faced is the very same one I faced… but I’m not trying to tell your story, only give context to mine. I grew up with the story of the hero, played games with the other kids pretended to be you...”

 

“What exactly are you saying Legend? That your also after me??”

 

“I figured it out quickly and Wind confirmed it. It’s a clean explanation. Twilight is the successful timeline. Wild after Twilight. Wind is the timeline you left and we- I'm your failure timeline. At some point you died. This means everyone here, is here because their attached to you somehow. Your ancestors and descendants all in one spot.

 

“Thats...” Even in the dark of the night the chain could all see Time’s distressed expression at war with self-disgust.

“It's really my fault, isn't it? This Dark Linkle, Dinkle, whatever, is my shadow. That’s why your all here...”

 

Before anyone could respond the portal yawned open just a few feet into the ocean water.

They could literally see the ocean water pour through the swirling purple gateway.

“Fucking Finally! Look Time I know this is fucked but let's put this aside until morning at least, okay? I'm going to lose it completely if I stay here one more minute!”

 

Wild stumbled through the portal at the back of the group. He almost fell as the sea water poured through the gateway behind him. The group all got through unharmed, slipping and sliding on the newly created mud and trying not to vomit. He blinked and the portal was gone leaving them alone in the dark. Only one fairy light hung down the road from them. A lantern in the darkness...

 

Legend grumbled darkly to himself. “Come on people. Move it! We need some light to figure out where we are. Of course, there's not even the fucking moon...” His mutters continued even as he took the lead down the stone road.

 

“I'm pretty damn sure- yeah this is mine, guys! We're sleeping inside tonight!”

Half hearted cheers went out as Wars and Wild helped Four and Hyrule back to their feet.

 

“That's great. This one is your house?”

 

“Yeah, just let me...” Legend walked up the step and banged on the door twice.

“It's me Ravio!”

Wild’s ears twitched. He could hear someone yelling something about- about a Mr. Hero?...

Legend pushed his way inside, coughing slightly. Dust hung in the air, items bundled up in every corner and surface.

“You’ve been cleaning?”

 

“Oh! Mr. Hero you only just left a few hours ago! I was trying to air it out!”

 

“What? Only a few hours ago?”

 

“W-well I'm pretty sure...”

Wild purred loitering outside the home for a bit. He could just see them, hugging in the cluttered room within. He could hear a fire crackling just to the left.

“There's more in the party now. Come on in guys! Ravio has seen some crazy stuff don't worry Wild. Get in here.”

Wild rumbled softly trying to make himself look smaller as he was quite literally dragged into the house by Wind.

 

“Oh!!” Ravio did react strongly but it wasn't in response to the Zonai. Instead the purple rabbit man pushed his way to Warrior's side.

“Mr. Captain Hero Sir I just got back from our little adventure! Just now like a few hours ago!”

 

“Really! Ravio it’s so good to see you.” Warriors grinned grabbing Ravio’s forearms like they were best friends.

 

“Alright! Fucking hands off my husband.” Legend growled pushing between them.

“What the fuck! Why do you two know each other?”

 

“A portal took me away for a few months but it was like no time at all passed here Mr. Hero!~”

 

“This guy? This one is your sweet bunniekins. This guy is your Mr. Hero?” Warriors quite rudely pointed at Legend and made a face even as he fought not to laugh.

Wild shook his head and stifled his laughter much like the rest of the chain.

 

“Wars’ /I know a guy curse/ strikes again. Honestly Warriors who Don't you know. Next you'll say you knew Four’s grandma! Or you know Sky’s bird or whatever.” Wind laughed the loudest at his own joke. The boy had pushed forward to hug Ravio around the middle as well.

 

Wild carefully found a place for Sky to sit down. They had a rare chance to actually relax, even if the chain were suddenly acting like idiots, after everything Wild was gonna take it.

 

“Let me introduce everybody Rav. Not just this nobody. Also, don't call me names infront of other people!” Legend hissed and physically dragged Ravio to the couch Wild and Sky were sat at.

“This guy is Sky, yes, he is blind but don't let that fool you. He is the best swordsmen in our group. This is wild. We only just picked him up a few weeks ago. He is hylian and we only just learned... yesterday? That this is just a piece of armor that transforms him into this.” Wild shyly waved to Ravio now that his full attention was on him.

 

“Into a Twil or something like it... hmmm...” Ravio leaned in curiously inspecting Wild’s armor and face.

 

“Perhaps a mix of many somethings?... Does it bother you?”

 

‘No! I like it. It makes me feel better.’

 

Legend quietly repeated Wild’s sign to Ravio, who nodded.

“Good! it’s rather charming on you! Listen Mr. Hero are any of your um... Family interested in-”

 

“No. Ravio, No. You are not selling my shit to me. We’re taking the last of the potions and supplies for food and shit. You guys figure out sleeping, I'm going to fucking bed.”
Legend may have said he was going to bed but really Ravio was dragged upstairs after him.

 

“It was really nice meeting all of you-”

 

“And don't touch my shit! Some of it is really cursed!”

Their door closed and Wild shook his head fondly. This was somehow even better then he imagined when Wind had told him Legend was married to a man. Ravio was incredibly sweet from the little he had seen. Sweet enough to balance out Legend’s world weary view.

 

Twilight found a place before the fire and Wild hesitated before moving to join him. The floor was far more comfortable than camping after all. He took the time to remove all the little details of his armor until the Zonai was comfortable beside his mentor.

‘You okay wild?’

 

‘I should be asking you that. I'm not the one who almost died.’

 

‘Yeah, yeah...’ Twilight pressed in closer hiding his hands between them.

‘So... you're not really Zonai, huh?...’

 

‘Sorry. I couldn't figure out how to make you understand... We still know some things you want to know. Zelda will know more.’

 

Twilight gently pressed in even closer until they were fully cuddling by the fire. Wild rumbled when their foreheads rubbed together.

‘Okay. It's okay. Just sleep. We'll talk in the morning.’

 

Wild rumbled softly, falling asleep quickly with his head on Twilight’s arm and Rancher’s hand on his ear, muffling the chain’s quiet voices. There would be time to talk tomorrow... hopefully.

Notes:

Hey guys just wanna apologize once again for being late. Legend was being himself as always. Difficult with everyone even me the writer lol I hope this all makes sense and there will still be a long talk between everyone in the next chapter if it doesn't.
I likely won't post next week as I have a very big home project I have to get done. I hope you all understand!
As always I survive off crackers, coffee, your kudos and comments and i love you all! Take care of yourself!

Chapter 21: Ravio's tail

The next morning Wild jerked to his feet to the sound of crashing. Legend had knocked a whole pile of shovels over onto the floor. He hissed quietly and looked around at the now wide-awake links around him.

 

“Sorry. Fuck. We made a horrible mess packing for this adventure. It's not normally this bad.”

Legend dodged bodies and more items on the floor to toss down a bag into Wild’s hands.

“This carries more than it looks. Take care of it. You look ridiculous carrying so many weapons on your back. Like some weird porcupine.”

 

Wild chuffed and curiously inspected the inside. Huh Legend wasn’t joking. His whole arm fit inside and he still couldn’t reach the bottom…

With a shrug he started dumping his things inside with very little organization.

 

Now he could get his things back from the chain! The others had been kind enough to actually hold onto his things up until now! Goddess Hylia and The Three he missed his slate or the purah pad… but this?... this was nice.

 

‘Thankyou!’

 

“Don’t mention it. Ever. Actually! Thank me with more of that burned cake thing.”

Wild nodded excitedly and jumped up to start on that and breakfast. Legend had a proper kitchen! There was even a huge oven with-

 

The Zonai jumped back and drew his sword from his new bag, preparing for a fight. Within the oven was a fire chuchu. It was being held back by a gate?... Metal kept it at the back of the oven even as it blobbed at him... those weird eyes...

 

He had never ever considered using a chuchu like this before.

 

“What? What is it?” Legend huffed when he entered the kitchen. Apparently, he hadn't been quiet enough.

 

‘Why is there a chuchu?’

 

“Duh! It's for cooking. There's a water chuchu in the bathroom too. I know it's not as nice as Warrior’s hyrule-” Legend leaned in and tossed a few chunks of wood into the cage for the derpy little fire chuchu.

 

‘No! No! I just didn't know you could do that! Their such a pain in my hyrule.’ Wild signed and broke some eggs into a bowl since Legend had so many on the counter. The more and more he thought about it the more it made sense... Chuchus were everywhere because they had been in everyone's home before the calamity... It even made sense why they are in literally every well to keep the water clean! He wondered if that information had been lost somehow or if no one had thought to tell him about it.

 

“You can move the blocks to control where the heat is. Here use these apples too.”

It kept the oven at a perfect even temperature. Wild was determined to figure out how to have one in his home now too.

He hummed happily making huge puffy egg puddings for breakfast with little apple hand pies and burnt cheesecake on the side. Wild was pretty sure Legend only wanted the cheesecake for Ravio. He snorted as he dished up the food for his not so little family.

 

“Alright Legend, what's the plan? We were promised fish man. I want fishman.” Warriors demanded with a grin over his pudding.

 

“You fucking would.” Legend shook his head unhappily.

“There's a river right outside. You guys will keep watch and I'll show you. Time...”

 

Legend turned to search the man’s expression. Time however just sighed and rubbed his forehead.

“I'd say you don't have to tell me anything but I'm a bit worried we’ll end up back on that island.”

 

“I'd rather jump into an endless void.”

 

“I get it. But it's not really any different then Twilight’s timeline. Of course I'm dead. It's really just... The idea that... No one saved Malon. Then again... she... I left her in Wind’s timeline too...” Time rubbed his face hard, lost in thought.

The tension in the room was suffocating.

“Let's try to forget this for now. I'll send a letter to Malon and hopefully we’ll end back at Lonlon Ranch soon.”

 

“Speaking of which.” Wind said very slowly and making a face at Time.

“You guys realize she wants us all to do that. Isn't... This a ticket home for any of us?... Whoever tells their story first gets to go where they want?”

 

“Absolutely everything.” Legend warned firmly.

“Dinkle seemed to know exactly when I had given up all my secrets. If you aren't willing to share your god damn soul then I wouldn't suggest sharing.”

 

“Well... I kinda already told you all my first adventure?” Wind said slowly. His face was adorably scrunched up.

 

“But did you? I know you're a fantastic story teller but I'm sure you edited some things. Made it sound better than it was. Had some darker thoughts about it all?”

Winds quiet thoughtful expression said it all.

 

They were interrupted as Ravio stumbled down the stairs in an oversized green shirt.

Legend jumped up and led him to the table. He gave Ravio his seat. Coffee and cheesecake were soon set out in front of the sleepy looking rabbit-man.

“Thanks~ what is this?...”

“Some of Wilds’ best cooking, so far.” Legend winked playfully at Wild who just grinned back.

“Ohhh~ it looks incredible! Is it supposed to be that dark?”

 

“Try it! I promise its good.”

 

“What's it called?”

 

“Something fire cheese cake.”

Wild tilted his head side to side before shaking his head no.

‘Could you try and take this armor off me? Maybe it's time I explained anyway.’ Wild signed looking to Legend for help.

“I can try. No promises.” Legend waved him over and Wild sat down beside them.

He was trying to mentally prepare himself for the chronic pain that was bound to hit him again once it was removed.

 

A warm hand squeezed his shoulder and Wild looked up at Twilight. He leaned into his mentor as Legend gently worked the armor off of him. Legend and Ravio whispered to each other about things Wild simply didn't understand as he figured it out.

It felt like a splash of water over oil. The magic refused to mix and pulled away from each other.

Within seconds Ravio held out the armor of the Ancient Hero and Wild was clinging to
Twilights hand trying to breathe through the waves. He wouldn't drown in the pain. He still had to function.

Perhaps he shouldn't have ignored his own body so often. Just because he wasn't feeling any pain didn't mean he wasn't accidently hurting himself.

 

“Okay wild! So, what's the name of this cake?” Wind had pushed his way to Wild’s side and he was so grateful to have something to focus on.

“B-burnt cheesecake. It's got a fancy name but I forgot.”

 

“Can I fix your hair? Your Zonai hair is always so neat but...”

 

Wild slowly nodded and sighed as a brush was found. He pushed his blond hair back letting Wind do as he wished.

Hopefully it was clean enough. He hadn't considered how bathing worked with the Aura...

“Where do I even start?”

 

“Well, you wanted to tell us something. Start with that.” Legend huffed as he stole another bite of cake from Ravio’s plate.

 

Wild was at first nervous but found he couldn't hold onto it. Not when his brothers were so sweet. He could hear Four starting the dishes in the kitchen and Time was kindly tending the fire.

 

“Twilight I'm pretty sure you... you practically raised me.” Wild waved at his intense scarring down the side of his face and body.

“I failed to stop Calamity Ganon the first time and I died trying. I told you all about that. But Zelda put me inside a shrine. It was built to keep someone alive no matter the cost... Well, it cost me my memories. If you hadn't been there, I probably would have tossed myself off a cliff right away because what even is falling?”

Wild let out a shaky laugh looking up at Twilight.

“But I'm pretty sure you were dead. You never took any damage in fights. You’d just disappear into shadows and I’d see you later.”

 

Twilight knelt down beside him looking conflicted.

‘Not dead yet... but if I could, I'd help you. It wouldn’t matter where or when. Dead or alive.’

 

“Are you sure? I was awful. You get to see me now, eight or nine years later. I was a heathen. You had to explain everything to me as a wolf. Clean water sources, food, what hylians even are. That kings are assholes. Basic stuffs.” Wild sniggered and leaned down to hug Twilight tightly.

 

The Rancher gently pushed him back and grinned.

‘Put on some clothes before you hug me, Dork.’

 

“I don't think anything could prepare you for how bad I'll be.” Wild laughed again and dug out his charged armor from his new bag. He put it on just to hug his mentor. He just wanted to stay like this for a bit. Just a bit... ignore their responsibility just for a bit. He could hear the others chatting and teasing each other, even Ravio was chiming in offering cute stories about Legend that made the pink man blush even more so.

 

“So, when are we leaving to go talk to your sister?”

 

“Don’t call her that in front of people. I told you I'm not supposed to admit that we are related.”

 

“Ahh come on Ledge we’re the only ones here!” Wind complained tossing himself across Legend’s lap.

 

“Whatever… It would be easiest if only some of us went later today. I'll talk to the guard but just don’t get your hopes up. Their a bunch of useless asshats. They only listen to me because Zelda knighted me.”

 

“You’re a knight too??”

 

“Only in name. She wanted me to have some help if everything went to shit again. Like I'd ever ask those losers for anything. Time, Warriors and I should go. Are you lazy bums ready to go to the river?”

Wild sat back and nodded reaching to hold Twilight’s hand for a bit longer. The others were still packing anyhow. There was no promise that they would return to Legend’s house after all.

 

“Zelda complains because I'm more likely to zone out as she calls it. I get distracted just listening to people instead of really taking in the information. I tell her it's not my fault she smiles so pretty.” Twilight grinned back at him but couldn't answer.

“She said Zonai were once called the Twil a long time ago. Even further back than the Ancient Hero.” Wild turned away to show Twilight the Aspect’s armor.

“You said the design was similar. Zonai were all about dragons and spirals. The dragon represents courage, the owl wisdom and the boar power.”

 

‘So, like the Triforce?’

 

“I don't know that sign.”

 

‘Time!’ Twilight whistled softly for the older man’s attention and he promptly translated.

 

“Triforce. That sign means Triforce.”

 

“Yeah, okay?... I still don't know what that is?” Instantly Wild knew he had messed up once more.

 

“What do you mean you don't know what the Triforce is?”

 

“wWhat?”

 

“You never saw anyone with three triangles, or sometimes just one on the back of their hand?”

Wild hesitated trying to remember why that sounded so familiar. Finally, Twilight showed him his own mark on the back of his hand.

 

“Zelda! My Zelda... She used it to stop the attack temporarily. I only saw it for a second...”

Wild pulled out his sketch book going to work on the memory. Zelda standing over him in her muddy white prayer dress, her long blonde hair almost floating in the wind of the field. The two of them had been the only ones left alive holding the front lines to-

 

“Wild were all ready. Can you get up?” Time asked not unkindly shaking him from his memory. His charcoal had moved almost on its own while he was lost in the memory, putting the moment down on paper.

 

“Yes... yes sorry.” He hadn't even noticed the others had stepped out to give them privacy.

“I'll walk better wearing the Aspect...”

 

“We’ll protect you no matter your choice Wild. It's not easy limiting communication.” Time knelt down to gently help him pack his journal.

 

“It’s... really nothing new. I had allot of struggles. Even with Wolfie’s help. Plus, I need to wear it to use my Zonai abilities.” Wild smiled up at Twilight again who just sighed and hugged him.

 

Wild followed them after the chain and decided to stay with Twilight while they walked.

 

“Wild. Here, wear this.” Legend came back to his side and wrapped a cloak around his shoulders before lifting the hood protectively over his head.

“The knights here are fucking idiots and won't ask questions. Wear this for now just to make sure your safe.”

 

‘That's so funny! I have the same cloak!’

 

“Huh? Really?? How about this then. You keep that one and I'll take yours once we get back to your hyrule.”

 

‘Deal!’ That sounded adorable and already Wild was thinking about what else he could give Legend as a borrower's fee.

He could already see the river from here and Wild would be a liar if he said he wasn't excited. A merman?... That would be a fun way to finally beat Sidon swimming!

 

Legend hesitated looking over the drop into the river and then glancing back at them.

“Like I said if the guards see me, they will probably try and attack.”

 

Warriors squeezed his shoulder and nodded.

“In that situation we pretend we don't know you while blundering enough you can get away. You'll be fine.”

 

“Right. And by the way, I'm not pink.” Legend smirked before jumping back into the water.

An iridescent blue tail splashed up out of the water, delicate light blue fins glimmering in the sun so brightly they almost blinded the chain. Of course, Legend would show off.

 

“Blue!” Wind excitedly crowed leaning out over the river until Twilight grabbed him by the collar.

 

“What? I can swim just fine thanks!”

 

Legend grinned up at them and tossed his long pink hair back.

“Well? Anyone else have some weird water stuff they want to show off?”

 

“I do but I don't really want to show off.” Time chuckled as he sat down on the edge of the river.

 

“Wait so... one two three four different people have other forms... seriously how many of us have different forms?”

 

“Um... five...” Four admitted softly.

 

‘Six.’ Hyrule signed in agreement.

 

“Alright then we shouldn't feel bad or weird about it!” Legend said firmly before diving down into the river.

 

‘You all should consider at least telling me about them. I can't heal something I don't understand.’ Hyrule admitted before his eyes snapped up staring right at Dinkle. ‘We got company.’

 

The group reacted slowly, like a stack of dominos to face the shadow which sat on a nearby rock, relaxing in the sun.

“Oh, you finally noticed?... I'm not here to cause trouble. Just a friendly warning. You'll be leaving before dinner. I managed to hunt down the last Link we need.”

 

“Another Link?” Wind excitedly hopped back and forth. The boy didn't seem to notice how most of his brothers had their hands on their weapons.

 

“Another Link. The last one. So long as none of you are dumb enough to die on me.” She smirked down at legend and playfully waved.

 

“Do we still get to go where we want if we tell our stories?” Wind asked in a rush.

 

“If you tell the absolute truth. Bye!”

 

“Wait!” Time yelled loud enough to make her pause. “What's your goal? Why are we doing this??”

 

“... Because I made a promise. I want to end Demise once and for all to protect those I care about.” She flipped back falling into the shadow of the rock leaving them alone with their thoughts.

 

“Demise??” Sky stood there; gob smacked. “Shit. She’s really isn't evil, is she?”

 

“Not necessarily...”

Notes:

we remodeled our kitchen ourselves and i think it looks pretty good!~~ love you guys so much, feel free to comment as always and tell me what you think!
also with heros aspects au by tashacee complete i am now crying my eyes out. i just adored their writing so much and it inspired this one T-T if you havent already you really should read theirs!

Chapter 22: The tracks feel safe

The group stepped out into a quiet alleyway. Wild gently helped Hyrule to sit down beside Four against the nearest building. This portal hadn't been as rough on them, since Dinkle had given them warning. They had had enough time to say goodbye to Ravio. They had also briefly seen Princess Zelda or Fable, as the group had nicknamed her.

 

“Alright! No walking for us!” Wind cheered excitedly. “No walking and a new Link!”

 

“Maybe. Maybe not.” Time gave Wind a small smirk. “Just because were in a city doesn't mean our hero is.”

 

“My boots are killing me!” Wild sniggered at Wind’s whining.

 

“Perhaps we need to get them checked then. You are still growing.” Warriors pulled out his journal and scribbled down something.

 

“This is more important! What do you think this hero is like?? Will he be younger than me?”

 

“Who says they are a boy anymore? If Linkle is a hero they could be a girl. Let's split up. We need to subtly ask questions about where to find a Link or a hero or how likely it is to talk to Zelda herself. Time, Twilight, Wild, Try and stay together and out of trouble. We don't know what these people are used too.” Warriors shrugged and grabbed onto Wind’s shoulder to lead him down the street.

 

“Ahhh! Surely, they can get over themselves. Cat people aren't as weird as bird people.”

 

“They may not have any weird kind of people at all. No one seems to have face tattoos either so like I said. It's for the best you three stay out of trouble. Let me Four and Sky do most of the info gathering. Legend and Hyrule can check the markets. See what we can afford supply wise. We'll all meet back here in an hour or two.”

 

Wild followed Time and Twilight to what looked like a little garden a few streets away. There were places to sit and rest. It felt a bit like home really. Now he just needed to take a cat nap in the sun. Wild purred softly, his cheek on Twilight’s shoulder.

 

The chain after what felt like hours of waiting finally returned. Logically he knew they hadn't actually been that long but still felt like it.

“We got the info we need. Link comes here in the afternoon to a bar in the quieter parts of the city. Wind did need new boots. He outgrew the ones he had.”

Legend sighed and spoke up next. “If I had known I would have given you a pair of my boots. We managed a few arrows. By the way the postman took our letters. He said some were delivered for us. Somehow.”

Legend pulled out a handful of letters and started passing them out.

“I don't recognize this writing, must be yours Wild.”

Wild gasped taking the letter Legend had shoved at him.

 

He plopped down right there in the grass to open it. It was Zelda's handwriting scrolled across several pages, each with little notes shoved in like she had to add in her thoughts after rereading it.

That was just so like her.

 

[Link or Wild

(Perfect name for you all things considered)

I didn't have a letter ready the first time and that mailman scared me half to death. (The second time he ran me down and left too fast because I didn't have money on me! The nerve!)

I'm going to get a letter to you next time even if I have to be rude about it and grab the guy. I've been taking care of things as best I can while you're gone. Our friends send their love and support and Sidon says you and your new friends should visit (After you come see me. I would kill to meet them. I'm not joking.)

I can't imagine how much harder your journey must be without the purah pad or slate. Next time you end up here you've got to get one or the other. It's more important than seeing me. (Because if you have it you can teleport to me.)

Link I am so happy and sorry that you remembered your father. I know how important this is too you and how much it hurts to remember. Still every detail helps. You knew about the Koroks even back then? Where were you? (Also, I've spoken with our current smiths both the Hylians and Gorons. They want to meet Four and state you have to learn as much as you can so they can learn from you.)

I can't wait to see your drawings; I didn't know you could draw! I want more details about Everything. I know, you know but this is SO important to our history. I can't wait to see Wolfie!

All my love,

Zelda (Flower or Flora)]

 

The next few pages was just updates on Purah’s work, translations they wanted Wild to work on, the political changes Flora had been working on and the children's little drawings of him.

He shook out the letter because there was still weight in the bottom and out came a little rock which he took a moment to appreciate the smooth face and the swirl of color before dropping it into his bag with the others.

 

“Well! Who was it?” Wind excitedly pushed Wild’s shoulder.

 

‘Zelda mostly. She finally answered!’

 

“WwwOOOhooo!” Wind excitedly leaned in to try and read the writing.

 

“Nope still don't understand.”

 

Wild rumbled and offered him the second sheet that was covered in Ancient Shiekah.

‘She gave me work too. she wants me to translate this into my Hylian.’

 

“She wants you to... rewrite this? Huh... their all boxy...”

 

Hour’s later the chain entered the bar they had been told Link would be in.

Apparently, this new Link came here on his off day.

Wind was caught at the door, the doorman brandishing a stamp.

“Let me put this on ya, kid.”

 

“Hey!”

 

“Don’t fight me or I’ll put it on your damn forehead.”

The man laughed waving the stamp at him threateningly until Wind offered his hand.

 

“We don’t sell hard liquor to the younger ones. You know that brain of yours an’t done growing until your thirties.”

 

“Ahh that's bullshit!” Wind huffed following in to rejoin Wild. Wild had taken his cloak and wrapped himself from head to foot, hiding behind the dark fabric.

“Language.” Time sighed and apologized to the doorman.

Wild hadn’t forgotten he didn’t look Hylian and didn’t want to be the reason this whole thing fell apart. Yes, it was an option to just take the Hero’s Aspect off but he didn't relish the idea of having to sit still in a bar while in crippling pain.

 

Twilight took his hand making sure Wild stayed with the group and shoving him to sit in the middle of the bar between him and Time.

 

The bar was quiet, the barkeep poured drinks beside a raised stage, which had a light pointed down to hold everyone’s focus.

Beyond that, it was dark and many of the people watching were also wearing cloaks. Wild breathed a sigh of relief that he wouldn’t stick out like a sore thumb.

 

“The new Link is supposed to be here.” Warriors whispered and looked around like he might see this person at any moment. Wild just took a break to relax enjoying the music coming from the stage.

 

The music came from a stringed instrument he had only seen once.

He was pretty sure was called a guitar and a rumbling deep voice filled the bar coming from the musician. He was an older man with long blond hair pulled back in a braid and a long beard that would make any man jealous.

He wore a pair of overalls and a nice button up shirt as well as some heavy work boots.

 

“No, you were not

Shunted down slack’s lane

Oh, you’re not tied up,

Here comes the train.

The tracks feel safe because you know ‘em.

You cannot stop the whistle from blowin’

And if you stay, it’s gonna hurt much worse.

You’ll still be left behind.

 

All there is left to want

From this last kiss.

Words couldn’t hold,

Even if we spoke.

 

Oh, you hope some things

Won’t ever die,

No, you won’t put on

Your suit and tie.

It’s still a funeral, you know it

You may not cry, you may not show it.

But here is poetry

A vein of ore

Uncovered by the storm.

 

All there is left to want

From this last kiss.

Words couldn’t hold,

Even if we spoke.

Shot in the dark.

Missed it by a mile

Still left a mark

Couldn’t blame us for trying…”

Wild found a mug of beer infront of him which he took a sip of and made a face. He wasn’t a huge fan of the bitter taste and instead focused on the warbling deep voice of the singer.

The light played with shadows allowing for some mystery of who this person was and his brothers were subtly checking out the other guests anyhow. Wild would just accidentally reveal his zonai-ness if he tried to help.

 

“Thankya.”

Claps and whistles came from every corner of the bar as the song ended and a few of his brothers joined in.

While deep and a bit moody the song had been really good.

 

The man was starting to pick up when his eyes caught on Wind.

Almost instantly he frowned and Wild blinked as he jumped down.

“Chassis.”

The grabbed at Wind’s forearm turning him towards the door to walk him out by his arm like he knew him.

“What are you doing here? I told you to st-”

 

“Hey! Hands off!”

Wild watched a few elbows fly before the chain could step between them.

 

“You seem to be confused Sir-”

 

“Wait a second- Chassis who are these…”

The man blinked before frowning even harder.

“O-oh I’ve made a mistake- I swear, you look exactly like my son. I’m sorry-”

 

“That’s alright honestly. This is Wind, our youngest brother. We’re from uh… out of town.”

 

Those sharp dark blue eyes seemed to pierce through each of them before he slowly nodded.

“Perhaps we could get a table?... I’ll buy drinks to make up for…”

 

“That would be most appreciated. Right Wind?”

 

“Yeah. I guess… Do I really look like your son?”

 

“Exactly like him… only he has light blue eyes like his mother.”

This new man chuckled waving them to a comfortable, wrap around booth and promised to be right back.

Eleven beers later and a cloaked woman came to sit beside him.

“This is um… my partner.”

 

“It’s good to see you again, Captain.”

 

"Huh?"  Warriors perked up as the woman spoke.
"Wait... do I know you?"

 

"Sort of." She drew back her hood for a moment letting them see her soft face, long blond hair and the crown which rest daintily across her forehead. Wild would guess she was in her late twenties?
"You know me as Spirit.  It looks like you haven't changed at all! Literally!"

Notes:

Welcome to our dumb chain, Engie. I hope you enjoy the ride! :D The song he sings is called Funeral by Tele novella. You can find the music video on youtube! In my headcanon Engineer sounds like Kyle Hill. As always I love you guys take care of yourselves and feel free to tell me what you think in the comments~ I'd love to hear your ideas on Engie

Chapter 23: Going for a ride

"Spirit Zelda! Oh wow! We ended up in your time??"

 

They both hissed at him and Zelda pulled her hood back up.
Wild noticed those around them seemed to catch themselves from looking at them. perhaps Zelda and Link came here often and they had the decency to pretend otherwise.

"Sorry sorry- forgot where we were.  Spirit this is my other brothers.  Heroes throughout time."

 

"I see... just a normal day for you, huh Captain?” Spirit teased from under her hood.

 

"You can't take her again.  I'll go Captain, please."
The- Link- This must be Link though Wild had never seen a Link with a beard before- Took Spirit's hand and squeezed it.

"I'm not really a hero but-"

 

"I have told you repeatedly you are!" Zelda hissed at the new Link.

 

"Uhm excuse me.  We're actually here for a hero.  For Link.  It's something out of our control unfortunately..."

 

Link sighed in relief and nodded.

"Then I'll go.  If you think that's for the best Zelda.”

 

"Well, I very well can't.  As much as I want too...”

 

They shared a long fretting look before Link nodded.
"How long do I have?"

"We aren't sure.  There's an entity making decisions for us.  It could be now or in a few weeks."

"But what if I'm not back in time."
Link hissed softly to Zelda.
Wild felt like the group wasn't supposed to hear this.

 

"You will.  I know it.  You will... We'll take the train.  You'll spent tonight at the castle with us." After a few moments Link nodded and redirected his attention back to Warriors who had kindly waited to continue his explanation.

 

"So we all have nicknames since we're all named Link."
Warriors took his time introducing each Link in turn, Wild nodding at his own.
He had to fight off some instinct to pull down his hood.  That wouldn't go well in a place of business here...

 

"You guys can just call me Engineer. Or Engie or Engine.  I'm not picky."

 

“Well Engineer.” Time offered his hand with a relaxed smile.

“Welcome to the Chain.”

 

“He likes his puns too damn much.” Wind grumped loudly.

 

“Ha Dad jokes? Anyone else got some mess makers at home?” Engie grinned as he shook Time’s hand.

 

“Nope. You’re actually the oldest here.”

 

“Is your beard really real??” Wind actually stood up in his bench and reached over Warriors to touch the oldest man’s face.

 

“Wind!”

 

“Speaking of… Wind?” Engie leaned in to let the boy touch and pull on his blond beard until he was sure it was actually real. Clearly Engineer understood children.

“You are the Hero of the Winds, right?...”

 

“Yeah! Why?”

 

“Sit down Wind!” Warriors hissed as he physically dragged the boy back to his seat.

 

Engineer looked back at Zelda and hesitated. She nodded firmly.

“Wind we are you descendants.”

“W-What! What what what!! Such a cool hero comes after me! Take that Time, Engie is so much better than Twilight!”

 

“Ha. Hey! When did you get beer?” The glass was yanked away from the teenager and gulped down by Time himself.

“No alcohol for kids.”

 

“How old are you?” Engineer asked frowning at Wind who was already wrestling with Warriors over the treatment.

“I’m- I'm fourteen! I'm an adult and these asshats can't see it-”

 

“Oufgh!” Wind elbowed Warriors in the kidney.

 

“Here you are an adult as soon as you can make a living. I wouldn't have given alcohol to a child. Should I have not?... It's his decision?”

 

“I'm an adult in my time too! We gotta put alcohol in the water just to drink it on the open sea! That beer was weak as hell anyway!” Wind laughed and stuck his tongue out at Time.

 

“If we want to get Spirit home tonight, We should leave soon.”

 

“You heard the man. Finish your drinks.”

Wild pushed his beer off onto Twilight who raised it in thanks. It was probably good for cooking but not for drinking in Wild’s opinion.

 

“At least my sword is on my train.”

 

The chain stepped out of the bar and followed the couple down the street. They were too busy guessing what a train even was.

 

Even with Engineer trying to explain such a thing -a metal box on wheels powered by fire?? Yeah sort of like a cart, sure-

The thing still struck the group dumb when it came into sight. It was easily eight feet tall and had dozens of?... Rooms? With warm red benches across both sides of the walkway. Wild wasn't sure what to call the warm seating area he entered.

“Come on inside. Make yourselves at home.” The engineer calmly checked each compartment. his sword now hung from a loop on his overalls.

“This beautiful piece of metal is going to start moving now so don't freak out! It's supposed to do that. Kinda like a horse pulling a wagon.”

 

“We trust you, Engineer.”

The benches were so plush and soft and Wild couldn’t help but run his hands over the texture.  He wanted chairs like these in his house so bad!

Wild shifted when Spirit, a Zelda, came to sit next to him.

“It's okay you know. You don't have too but nobody is gonna bother you in here.”

Wild hesitated before lifting his hands to pull down his hood and show her his appearance.

“Truly Wild you are worried over nothing. I promise I don't care what you look like.”

Wild shook out his red hair and wiggled his ears to make her laugh. Now he realized he was just being silly. This was Zelda. Maybe not his Zelda but she’d never do anything to hurt him on purpose...

‘Thank you for the ride. I can't wait to ask about everything- does he have a sign name?’ He pointed to Engineer and Zelda shook her head no.

“It’s standard for train conductors to learn sign for better communication both across distance with other engineers and with passengers. His sign name is just Link like this. You'll have to come up with a new one for Engineer. That's signed like this.”

 

"Twi I've been meaning to ask." Warriors leaned over the back of his seat to speak with them, interrupting their conversation.

"Why did you hide Wolfie."

 

"Wars..."  Time sighed disapprovingly.

 

"It's a fair question!  I'm our tactician it would have helped to know!"

 

Twilight nervously picked at his clothing for a long moment.
'It wasn't on purpose.  At first it was just weird that anyone knew at all.  Time figured me out really quickly.'

 

"Yeah I remember he ran into you first, alone..."  Warriors pressed for more information.

 

'No...' Twilight glanced between Time and Wild.  The Hero of Twilight shook with anxiety just from talking about this.
'I recognized him.  He was fighting alone and I couldn't stop myself from helping.  If I had been smart, I would have changed back.  Wolf brain didn't care about smart. Wild made me realize I'm being stupid.  I'm making it way harder than it is... but I can recognize I've been traumatized.  It wasn't intentional but I was shown over and over that telling people the truth or showing Wolfie gets me hurt.'

 

Twilight rubbed the back of his head before continuing.
'It's no one's fault.  Just the situation.  My own family doesn't know. I hadn't told anyone.'

 

"Alright... alright but why haven't you told anyone?  Wolfie is great.  If we introduced you..."

 

'I only told the kids of my village that Wolfie exists.  Just in case... I haven't told anyone because... because they attacked me.  I have a few scars from my own family."

 

"Fuck!"  Wind jumped up and climbed right into Twilight’s lap.
"That's fucked up!"

 

For once no one reprimanded Wind and Twilight wrapped him up into a tight hug.
"They wouldn't hurt you if they knew! Yeah, they'll feel bad but they aren't dumb! They'll understand they did their best with what they knew and so did you!"

 

"We’d all support you, Twilight.  Whatever you decide but... I bet it would take a huge weight off your shoulders if you had some people at home who could help you."  Four offered from behind them.

 

Wild just squeeze Twilight’s knee and waited.

 

‘I’ll think about it… Zelda knows but it’s Zelda. Of course, she knows…’

 

Their conversation slowly drifted into less important topics but Wild just sat with his brother’s and Zelda watching the castle draw nearer by the minute...

Notes:

adhd is fighting me but im doing my best to dodge lol i really hope you guys adore my engie. sweet loving husband and father. i literally couldnt find anyone else making Link from spirit tracks an adult :P if you guys know any id love to read them!

Chapter 24: catching the sun

Engineer exited the train with Zelda once it came to a stop outside the courtyard of the castle. The castle was smaller than Wild’s own and so young and new...

Wild tried very hard to look at anything other than the kissing pair, his hood back up around his head.

 

The others though? Wind had his nose pressed right up against the glass and Sky was cooing.

“That's so great!”

 

“It's certainly a good sign. So many of us have loving relationships. One with a nearly grown-up kid.” Legend crossed his arms as Sky’s lovey happy expression turned on him.

“I will hit you; don't you touch me.”

 

After a few minutes Engineer waved them off the train. There was a new hickey on the man’s neck...

“There's a weird portal out here you guys should look at.”

 

Just off to the left of the train, a deep purple portal awaited them. Normally hyrule felt them long before they appeared. The magic left Engineer shivering and crossing his arms across his chest protectively.

“Is that it then? We're leavin’ now?” Their newest member asked before turning back to Zelda. “I’ll see you soon, Zelda- I know it-”

 

She pulled down her hood to watch them go one by one, her knights rapidly approaching behind her so she wouldn’t be alone.

“I know you will. I’ll tell Chassis you love him.”

 

“I love you too!” Engineer grinned waving over his head until Wind pulled him backwards into the portal.

Wild paired up with Hyrule and nodded back at Zelda. They would protect her hero.

Wild went last watching each paired group go through the portal.

 

Wild finally stepped through, blinking up at the forest around them. It felt strange. This forest felt far far stranger than any he had ever visited before. That was really saying something as he had been in the Korok Forest. The giant mushrooms were cool. Engineer looked like he was handling the portal well. Better than Hyrule, who clung to Wild’s arm at least. Poor Hyrule had turned a violent shade of green.

‘Portal felt different. Worse this time.’

Four nodded once he finished emptying his stomach into the nearest bush. Time was helping Four clean up.

 

“Anyone have some water?” Engineer asked adjusting his bag and his sword.

 

Twilight handed over his waterskin.

‘Are you good?’

 

“Yeah. Fine. I've been through plenty of portals. It’s nothing new to me.”

 

“Mine! This is mine!” Sky excitedly called after a few moments. His hand had brushed over one of the chest high mushrooms to confirm it.

“We’re on my surface!”

 

“I didn’t get to tell you, I think. Wild, Engineer my world has huge friendly birds that can carry us through the sky.”

 

“Is that right?”

 

“Wild! No!” Warrior’s yelled. Wild’s sword curiously sliced the nearest mushroom. It healed really fast, so fast that he couldn't seem to cut the mushroom down.

 

“It’s okay! They don’t taste good Wild, I tried. But they do make some dust that’s useful! So, collect that if you can. I like to put it in my bottles. Oh! And don't worry Wild no one will react to your appearance. They’ll accept you just like they accepted every other weird thing on the surface. We just have a short walk and we’ll be in the little town we’ve been working on. It’s nothing like your world’s town but it's a start. Oh! And if you see any fluffy plant creatures, they aren't enemies. Speaking of-” Sky whistled up into the tree tops loud enough to wake the dead.

 

Right on cue a loud cry responded from above, startled the whole group. A giant red bird swooped down and slammed right onto Sky.

 

Wild absolutely didn't run to Twilight. Wild rumbled as the red bird leaned down to squash Sky further. The Godkiller’s laughter bubbling out of his mouth. It had startled him truthfully. He wasn't sure he had ever seen a bird that big that wasn't a monster.

Sky was trapped against the ground by its huge feathery body.

Okay maybe that sounded nice.

 

After a few minutes Sky was able to wiggle enough to hold out what looked like seeds pressed into sugar. Some sort of fruit leather maybe?...

“Crimson come say hi! These are my new brothers! I know I know I really missed you too! So much big guy!”

Sky guided their greeting, gently bringing Warriors Wild and Engineer to touch the bird's massive beak and silky red feathers. The creature slowly bowed for each of them, gently shaking his head under their hands.

 

“Why is it clacking like that?”

Its massive beak was in fact clacking together, vibrating in a manner that at first felt threatening.

“It's how they say hello! He likes you all, I promise! Crimson has never ever hurt anyone before. Not even Groose who probably deserved it. Some of the loftwings can get pretty territorial with each other but they never mind us. We can walk right into their nests normally.”

‘What do they eat?’ Twilight signed curiously. He had already seen this creature before apparently.

 

“Mostly fish but they aren't that picky. Zelda could tell you so many facts about them.”

Crimson’s rumbling as he rubbed Sky’s hair was adorable. It took Wild a bit to get used to the loud noises but now? It almost looked like the bird was grooming the hero.

 

Sky continued talking as he took the lead down the forest path, hand on his bird's side.

“I bet Sun is waiting for us Crimson! Let's go!”

 

“Sky is in love love with his Zelda, Sun!” Wind stage whispered up at Engie who nodded along.

 

“I think he caught that.” Legend huffed rubbing Wind’s hair just to bother him.

 

“I apparently got allot to catch up on.”

 

“Well, someone else tell him what happened.” Legend shook his head and hurried to walk at the front to escape story time.

 

Wild however was interested and fell into step on Engie’s other side.

“Let’s see then.” Warriors spoke up thoughtfully.

“I guess this falls on me unless you want too, Time.”

 

“Nope. You always told the best stories. It’s where Sailor got it.”

 

“Yeah yeah. Alright from the start then. As far as I’ve been told…. Wait Wild did we actually tell you any of this?? I’m so sorry! I guess with all… Everything that happened we glossed over how we all met.”

 

Wild just shook his head.

‘I asked but you didn’t understand. It’s okay.’

 

“Well, you can hear it now. It started with Hyrule who landed in Legend’s world. They ended up in Time’s, though separated by the portal, and by then they guessed that this would be a pattern. Then they ran into Four, and then Wind, Twilight, then me and you found us in my world.”

Warriors actually counted on his fingers to make sure he hadn’t forgotten anyone.

“We’ve been working on the timeline but it’s still kinda messy. As far as we can tell everything starts with Sky creating hyrule here on the surface. That’s were we are going now. Then Four then Time who accidentally split the timelines.

There’s Legend’s timeline with Hyrule after him, Twilight and Wild in another and Wind and you in the last. We still aren’t sure where my timeline is but I sort of dealt with my own timeline break as you know Engineer. Allot of people from other timelines came to my time to fight a war.”

 

“This all sounds complex…” Engineer scratched his beard thoughtfully.

 

“Point is, we’ve sort of realized our biggest connection is Time himself.”

 

“So, I’ve come last?... You make it sound like we’re done looking for other heroes…”

 

“That’s the other part of this. We’ve been moved around supposedly by a shadowy woman we’ve dubbed Dinkle.”

 

“Get it?? Warriors’ sister is named Linkle. So Dark Linkle because they look the same but with different colors.” Wind piped up cheerfully.

 

“Right, right okay. So, she’s moving us around. That portal we just went through?”

“She’s still unknown and could be lying but it seems like it. She says she is training us for something big. She Wants us to be truthful and learn from each other.”

 

“Well, I guess I got allot to teach ya.”

 

“Yeah? Teach us what?” Wind asked excitedly.

 

“How to work on machines. How to stay safe. How to relax when you don’t have an adventure or a job to do.” Engineer rubbed Wind’s messy hair laughing with Wild and Warriors.

 

“Boringggg!”

 

“You’d think but things that are boring now won’t be later.”

 

“Oh, oh yeah. Sun is apparently Hylia reincarnated or something. Sky figures she’ll have some info.”

 

“No pressure?...”

 

Wild turned his attention back to Legend as Warriors continued on, explaining how Dinkle seemed interesting in all of them sharing their secrets with each other.

He then quietly told Engineer what Legend had told them.

 

“Are you really sure I should be hearing this?”

 

“Legend is kind of… unique. He just told someone else to tell you so he doesn’t have too.”

 

Wild slowly nodded picking that apart. People really were weird sometimes, refusing to just ask for what they want.

 

Zelda was helping to build a home along with four others. She spun around on the spot as Sky’s yelled her name and nearly clipped one of the other knights with her hammer.

“Link!”

She quite literally plowed into him, knocking them both to the ground in a mess of laughter and kisses. It seemed the goddess reincarnated was no better than Crimson.

 

“I’ve missed you!” Sky laughed as he held her tightly.

 

“Oh, I missed you too so much!” She nuzzled into his neck hiding from the world.

Zelda sat up after a few moments, realizing too late that there were nine other heroes watching the scene they were making.

“You have more friends than last time!”

 

“Oh yes! You met the others but we picked up Warriors and Wild and Engineer.”

 

“Right.” Zelda blushed when Warriors turned on the full charm to bow to her.

“Please don’t. I’m a knight, not some queen like in Sky’s letters…”

 

“I’m just floored! Sky wouldn’t shut up about you! It seems he was right about everything.”

 

Wild stepped forward and calmly punched his brothers arm for teasing Sky and then waved to Sun. Hopefully he wasn't too awkward... Thankfully Sky seemed to be right about these people. Zelda didn't react much at all to his strange appearance. Still...

Sky grinned, his arm held tightly around Zelda’s waist like she might disappear if he ever let go.

 

“She is the best!”

 

“Li-Sky no you’re embarrassing me.” Her hand slapped over his mouth and she ignored his mumblings from under it.

“Now. You lot aren’t really here for me, I can tell... I suppose I know what you're hoping for…”

 

Sky nodded and rubbed the back of his head when she let him talk again.

“We feel a bit lost. Unsure who to trust or anything.”

 

“Well…” Sun lowered her eyes to the grass below her boots. “I think we should talk at home Sky. Our home…”

 

“Right. Come on Guys. Let’s go.”

 

Wild let himself fall back, watching the others as Sky and Sun rapidly talked at the front with their bird Crimson following right behind them.

He could see the gears in Legend’s head turning and could tell how badly Hyrule wanted to go explore- Wild should ask to go too. This was such a wild young world.

 

Sky held onto Sun’s hand leading them through the growing Hyrule town. It would someday turn into Four’s Hyrule town. That was such a weird idea.

Wild curiously watched the people work from under his hood.

“Groose is out but he said he would be back tonight.”

 

“We’ll be here?”

 

“I don't know. I think you were only brought here to talk to me...” Zelda held out a key to Sky who carefully unlocked their new home for the first time.

 

“Even if it's only for a second then. I'm glad I'm here with you Zelda.”

Notes:

i wanted to show the behavior of the shoebill stork which if you look at it, we can all agree loftwings are based off of. i love them so much <3 also i hope its not weird going over it all over again poor engineer doesn't know anythingggg.
i cant wait for the next two chapters :D

Chapter 25: The Light

Sky said something too low to Wild to hear and Sun laughed her sad expression slowly melting into love and happiness.

Only now did Wild realize Sun was wearing something like the hero’s outfit.

A green tunic and a sword on her back. He would have to remember to ask-

 

Sun pushed open the front door of their home after Sky, waving them inside. Crimson found himself a comfortable place in the sunlight to wait on them.

“I-I’ll make us all tea!”

 

“I can do it. Sit.”

Sky gently brought her to the couch waving the others to find comfortable spots to sit around her.

 

“There’s a new bag over the fireplace Sky…”

Sun sighed watching his busy work for a moment before turning back to them.

 

“You have questions. I’ll try and answer… It sort of makes people uncomfortable when I do though. So only ask things you actually want an answer too. It’s not my fault if you ask something ridiculous like what's the meaning to life and get a stupid answer.”

 

“Well? What is the meaning of life?” Legend smirked from his spot on the couch beside her.

 

“Forty-two. Chew on that.” She giggled behind her hands at his expression.

 

“We seemed to be here with a purpose. Traveling through time for a real reason. Can you share that reason?” Time of course stayed the most on task.

 

It was like watching a candle dim out in front of the Sun. The Zelda before them stilled, expression relaxing and her hands falling open in her lap welcoming them. The change was subtle but unquestionable. The divine sat before them.

“You’re here to finally end this curse. To finally end Demise’s curse on us all.”

Wild’s head jerked around at the sound of clay breaking.

Broken porcelain fell out of Sky’s hands, water spilling into the fireplace.

Their eyes met like electricity over the group despite the fact that Sky’s couldn't see the goddess’ unnatural radiance.

 

“S-so I’m right. This is all my fault?”

 

“No. This would have happened no matter what. Will happen no matter what. Has happened no matter what... Tell your tale when you are ready, Sky. For now, trust this is the plan. Dinkle is acting in our favor. We have the same goals and she is listening to my direction.”

 

“So, she’s really not evil…”

 

“Evil is subjective. It’s limited and confusing. To a blade of grass, a boot is evil. The boot will never know that it is or isn’t. Dinkle is simply the part of you, you’ve rejected as heroes. The parts that don't fit that role.”

 

“Then who is this Demise person?” Warriors continued to press. His pen was moving rapidly across his journal.

 

“A God. One as old as I am. He hates this world. Hates being trapped here. Hates how helpless he is. He is the one who twists Ganondorf, Ganon, the Calamity, others like them, into what you've seen.”

 

There was a moment of quiet before Hylia spoke once more. Her eyes closed; head lowered almost in prayer.

“I understand completely if you hate me or my actions. I am sorry. Truly sorry.”

 

“Don’t just apologize…” Legend grumbled unhappily but even the most religious, Sky and Hyrule said nothing.

 

“What exactly are we supposed to do now? We don’t normally get such clear instructions.” Four asked calmly.

 

“This is a moment for peace. A moment for truth. I believe you’ll need to learn from each other. All of you have something to offer the group. Information or technique or wild abandon…”

 

“And this enemy, Demise? How soon are we facing them?” Warriors asked.

 

Hylia’s blank expression finally broke into a laugh and she looked up to smile at them all.

“What is time to me? A goddess of time? It’s a meaningless limit placed on everything around me. I’m still present at my birth and I am present here and I am present at my death all at once. I can’t describe what /soon/ is.”

 

“Your death??” Sky yelped coming to kneel beside her and take her limp hand in both of his.

 

“Perhaps not a true death. Perhaps just a rebirth. A change. It is hard to tell. I cannot speak of such things… Sky… Link…” Hylia gently cupped Sky’s cheek.

“My gift. My hero… Think of it as just closing a book. It’s not something unusual or worrisome.”

 

“…What happens after? After all this is over? Will we have to say goodbye?” Hylia turned to look at Wind who spoke up. The boy was unhappily pouting leaning into Warrior's side.

 

“… Some of you, yes. But so long as I can, you’ll get to see each other as you wish but those Doors will close as they must… I can’t allow you to interfere with each other's adventures.

 

“Cryptic as always.”

 

“Legend, you know exactly what it’s like to hold the Triforce. You know that words hold power. Sometimes I must be cryptic.”

 

There was another long silence.
"I simply wish to thank you. You've all proven yourselves time and time again.  I've enjoyed every moment with you as your mother, sister, daughter, wife and friend... Those with the Hero's Spirit, who fight for our world, never afraid to Try Again... thank you..."

Wild frowned meeting a few of his brother's eyes.

 

Why did it sort of feel like... She wasn't talking to them?...

 

“I think I've said enough.”

 

"No! Wait.  Why?  Why did all of this bullshit happen?"

 

"Legend!"  Several of the chain hissed.

 

"No! I want to know.  Wild lost his memories! I went on a stupid number of quests, Time had to literally break the timelines.  I want to know. Why." Legend pressed.

 

Hylia lifted her eyes to hold his glare.

"There's more to this world then you get to see.  Can you try and let that go Legend? What you ask would spark insanity in a mortal... Can you trust me that if you hadn't acted our world would have fallen.”

 

"Another vague answer!"

 

"Yes."  Hylia nodded and smiled at him. "But a real one.  It's not healthy for you to know anything else. Infact, you should forget what I said."

 

“I never will.”

 

She softly snorted, fighting a smile.

“And that’s why the gods love you so very much.”

 

“Sarcasm? Was that sarcasm??”

And then she laughed, suddenly looking more like Zelda than a goddess.

Just a girl in knights clothing laughing at Legend’s affronted face.

 

And then a portal yawned open right there by the front door.

“Already?” It was clear by Zelda's own heartbroken face she herself hadn't known they would be saying goodbye as soon as Hylia was done with them.

“S-Sky-”

 

“It's okay. It's okay.” He pulled her into a tight hug refusing to let go yet.

“Just be careful...” Sun rubbed her face into his hair and the others did their best to give them time deciding who would go with who through the portal so Sky could leave last with Legend.

Notes:

i am really super tired i hope this all makes sense ha! hylia taking the time out of her very busy adult goddess job to actually talk to them all for once! lolol

Chapter 26: Daddy

Notes:

this is more cracky than normal. i wanted to do something for halloween. a scary thing but instead it kept being funny? anyway i am really tired and im off to bed.

Boots splashed into warm spring water as the Chain exited the portal.

Twilight excitedly signed so the others could see it.

‘This is mine! There's an inn big enough for everyone up the road with a proper Goron Spring!’

 

Wild took a moment to really appreciate the little desert city they found themselves in.

It was spread out in a straight line, buildings climbing up on both sides of the gorge. Lights illuminated the road every few feet. Goron's humans and Hylian's all crowded together excitedly playing games or eating food.

The sun overhead was creeping down to hide behind the stone walls of the town.

Twilight looked just as surprised to see such a crowd and hurried the group forward. They made their way into a rather large inn. it must be three stories high.

Sky was being led in by his hand.

“Link!” A young girl almost plowed down Twilight who let out a crackling laugh.

“You came! Aren't you excited for the celebration! Malo worked hard to make this happen! You should go talk to him and Renado.”

‘Why what's going on?’ Twilight shifted her away enough so he could sign between them.

 

“We’re celebrating the harvest! You really should go talk to Renado and Malo. They’ll want to talk to you! Oh, I actually have a job to do.” Ilia cleared her throat before explaining each available room left and the group finally decided on just paying for the shared room at the very back of the inn. It would have enough room at least.

 

“Let's see eight... Nine people. Eight adults, one child...” Ilia muttered writing that down in her book before handing them a few keys.

 

Twilight nodded and grinned back at Time and Warriors.

“Wars and I will join you. Everyone else figure out the bed's situation before you go to the festival.”

 

Wild watched them go halfheartedly thinking about joining them but Four gently pushed him to follow the group up the stairs and past a few claimed beds and into a larger closed off backroom.

The door would hopefully muffle their noises during the night and keep them out of trouble.

 

“I'll be downstairs until morning. There’s a free use kitchen downstairs but breakfast is made by the morning shift. You can get to the springs through those doors and the Gorons will help you outside if you need anything!”

Ilia smiled before leaving them to figure their bed situation out. There would have been enough beds if Engineer hadn't joined them. Four got his own bed for once. He deserved it.

Wild hesitated feeling like he was missing something. There were nine beds...

Sky flopped into the bed beside him and grumbled as Legend forced his boots off his feet.

“Come one sky. Fucking take care of yourself. You better be done moping about by morning.”

 

“Legend!”

 

“Well?? If he really wants to go back, he can tell his story next. Just as soon as Dinkle catches up with us.”

 

Sky rolled over letting Fi rest against the wall.

“You're right legend... thankyou.

 

“I get it. It sucks. At least you know she is safe.”

 

Sky just shook his head.

“I'll try to cheer up. I'm sure the celebration will be fun.”

 

“And you! You are joining me in that spring.” Legend turned on Wild with a teasing smirk on his face. At Engineer’s confused expression Wild signed to explain.

‘I don’t normally look so put together! Scars. Messy hair. I'm actually Hylian.’

 

“Well Hylian or Zonai you look like you desperately need a bath and then a spa day.” Legend teased roughly rubbing Wild’s hair and forcing him up.

“I knew you had some magic around you but I thought it was just cleaning enchantments.”

 

Wild waved ever so helpfully at Engineers awed expression.

‘I didn’t know how to take it off or tell the others.’

 

“I see… I bet it was difficult. You do look like a hero though, all the gold and such.”

 

“Enough chatting! Bath time come join us if you want.”

The doorway Ilia had mentioned opened up out on the roof of the inn and Wild only had to follow the smell of the Gorons hot springs to find the pool.

“Oh, thank the goddess.” Legend groaned as he climbed into the heat of the pool.

“You and I are going to start practicing with taking that aura off of you.”

Wild slipped his armor and cloak off of himself a bit slower than Legend nervously noticing the Gorons and the few Hylians also relaxing.

“Hey! This guy is with me, he won't cause any trouble. Just leave us the fuck alone.”

Wild tried not to blush as Legend snapped the few onlookers out of their staring.

‘I do understand. It's just weird.’

“Yeah, well I'm not putting up with that bullshit. I’ll fist fight’m”

 

‘You’d fist fight a Goron for me?’ Wild giggled enjoying the intense heat all around him. he understood now why Legend was so instant that they practice here. It wouldn't hurt half as much.

It turned out using his own magic was exhausting. Legend was a cruel cruel teacher. It was like finding out he had a muscle he had never flexed before but after using so many other people’s powers Wild knew what it should feeeellll like? If that made any sense at all.

Legend hadn’t let him stop until he had managed to get the aura off by himself.

Hot relaxed and a little wet Wild climbed into his bed fully prepared to go to sleep. It didn't matter that he could hear the games outside in full swing. He was certain one was even a bomb-based game.

He was just about to fall asleep when Time’s voice cut through the room.

“Where's Wind.”

 

Legend and Four were the only two people in the room with them and the both of them shook their head.

“Wait he hadn't been with us since...”

 

“I saw him when we got here. He came with us for sure.”

 

“But he was weirdly quiet, wasn't he?”

 

Time turned on his heel leaving them behind to continue his search.

Shit. Finding Wind was up to him Sky and Twi wasn't it?

He pulled up his hood and hurried out the door after Time.

Time physically dragged Twilight outside quickly explaining what was going on and that they needed a headcount and to find Wind.

The spring was an obvious choice. It was the last place they knew he had been so best to start there and work his way after the boy.

He hadn't lingered. That much was clear and his scent followed the groups for a bit... before it wandered off to the left following a quiet road Wild hadn't realized was behind the shaman's place of worship.

 

Wolfie almost barreled him down and raced up the hillside.

Wild grumbled unhappily as he hurried to follow focusing more on Wolfie than the scent now. Just because he was faster didn't mean the wolf had to hit him.

By now the nearly full moon hung overhead. The graveyard he found himself within felt chilly and honestly? Rather Scary. Wild wasn't sure he had ever been in a graveyard like this. He could read the dates and names on each headstone...

He hurried to join Wolfie and- oh that was Engineer kneeling before Wind.

The boy was pressed up against a headstone hugging his knees and hiding his face from them.

“What’s going on?” Time was right behind them and he let out a sigh of relief once he saw their missing team members were safe.

 

“I noticed Wind was gone when I left for the festival. It took me a bit to find him but...”

Engineer gently squeezed the boy’s hand trying to comfort him.

“You'll have to trust me on this, this isn't-”

 

“Hey! guys!” Legend and Four ran up the path to join them out of breath from the run.

 

“Daddy!” Wind suddenly gasped and jumped up to cling to Legend’s vest.

 

“What the Fuck are you doing Sailor?!”

 

“Legend!” Engineer grabbed his hands tightly before the vet could push Wind away. He signed one handed over the boy’s head making sure he couldn't see.
‘He is being possessed by a ghost. This isn't Wind.’

Notes:

as always i love you guys thanks so much for all the comments. i use them to get high af. sorry for picking on wind lol

Chapter 27: moving phantoms

There was a moment of disbelief before Legend forced himself to relax. He rested his hands on Wind’s shoulder and head protectively. It didn't matter how annoyed he was there was no way in hell he was letting Wind go now.

“A possession? Are you sure?”

 

“My whole adventure I had a spirit traveling with me. I can see them all the time... actually... I got in trouble allot accidently giving spirits free rides...” Engineer rubbed his beard unhappily. “Anyway, my point is I can see them. The both of them. It's just a little boy. Maybe five years old...”

 

The boy decided he had been ignored enough and he tugged on Legend’s vest for his attention.

Legend was doing his best okay? Their heights being so close certainly didn't help this awkward moment one bit.

“What is it kid? Do you got a name?”

 

“C-Caram...”

 

“Well Caram-”

 

“Legend.” Engineer cut him off firmly and signed rapidly behind the boy’s head.

‘It's important we play along until we figure out what's going on. We might lose Wind if we don't. Caram could run away with him or pick a new kid to take.’

 

With a long-suffering sigh Legend nodded.

“What are you doing out here, Caram?”

His shoulders tensed as the haunted boy looked back at the grave. He had been leaning against it moments ago.

Legend could just make out the Sheikah even in the dark, etched into the front along with the name Caram Bola. He really was only six years old... Wild shivered as he read the dates and Legend remembered how the zonai (hylian he needed to remember that Wild was actually hylian) had reacted telling them about his own ghosts.

“All the dates are around the same time...” What had happened to these people?... “Engie do you have any plan for how to help Caram?”

 

“That depends on what is bothering Caram.” Engineer answered easily before switching back to sign. ‘We shouldn't talk about him and confuse him. We should try and get him to sleep. Wind still needs his rest and that would give us time to figure this out.’ Thankfully Engineer’s sign wasn't too different from warrior’s and wind’s sign.

 

Time nodded seriously and took the lead now that they had a plan. “You three go to the inn then. Try and clear us a path through the crowd.” With that agreement the group split in half.

 

Legend was forced to actually carry Wind on his back as the boy refused to let him go.

“I'm too old for thissss! Move!”

The boy laughed adorably, cuddling into Legend’s pink hair. Legend was sure his face matched that bright color perfectly.

Wild held the doors open for him and Legend groaned even louder at the sight of the next flight of stairs. He could hear Twilight and that girl, Ilia talking and signing together over his own loud groans and protests.

 

“Come on Legend, I’ll help you.” Time offered a shoulder to Legend and Warrior’s boxed them in so they couldn't fall back down the stairs.

 

“I'm holding onto the idea- that teasing Wind- Will make this all worth it.” Legend was breathing hard by the time Caram was laid out in one of the beds but the boy still refused to let him go, holding onto his arm tightly.

 

“I want to stay with you papa...”

Caram murmured softly as he was tucked into the bed.

With a deep sighed Legend gave up and climbed into bed beside him.

 

“Don't act like we’re twisting your ear or something Vet.” Warriors sniggered, pretending to take over the tucking in for the both of them.

 

Legend not so softly slapped his hands away. “Shut it you overgrown toad!” Legend’s ears twitched as the boy whined.

“Go to sleep Kid. I’ll... We’ll figure something out.”

 

It was sweet to watch someone like Legend gently cuddling Wind. Wild was sure Warriors and Twilight were jealous actually. Wind wasn't normally this clingy with anyone but Wild and Wolfie. It was the fur.

Wild however couldn't push past the idea. Ghosts could take over bodies like this?... completely take over someone like Wind? How? What did this mean could any ghost do this or just sheikah kids?? He couldn't help but remember the thing. The horror Time had described that hung around him.

 

When Wind wasn't in danger like this, he would ask Engineer if he could see that horror.

He was so distracted that he didn't even notice Twilight and Engineer heading out.

He didn't notice that was until a regal man with long shiny black hair enter the room and bowing to them all. He approached Legend’s bed carefully checking on Wind’s sleeping form.

“My name is Renado. I am the shaman of this village. The child is sleeping?... Good. I have some information. Link has shown me the grave in question and I am certain that child came to this village alone. I have reason to believe the child's parents are buried at the old Kakariko Village site. Link you have met Impaz. She can direct you from there. If I cared for them would you transport Caram to the village? The sooner the better.”

 

“You mean what's left of them.”

 

“That is my duty as the shaman of this village. I know how to respect their believes and culture.”

 

“Fuck we aren't getting to sleep much are we.” Legend groused.

 

“It isn't safe for you to leave at night. Not tonight.”

 

“Heard that one before... Yeah shaman go take care of Caram, are you guys all okay with leaving in the morning?” Legend sighed curling up with Wind pressed up right against him.

 

When Twilight claimed a bed Wild pushed in beside him. He really didn't want to sleep alone tonight... Wild could vaguely hear Engineer asking Sky for some of his wood working supplies and chatting with Renado about some herbs and string...

 

Wild slowly stretched as morning came. He hadn't slept much at all. He wouldn't say the others had been noisy but it was clear they were all unsettled. They hadn't even gotten to enjoy the festival properly...

Breakfast was brought into their room by a plump woman he hadn't been introduced too. Wind err... Caram was still asleep against Legend’s side and Wild cooed when he noticed Hyrule tucked up against Legend’s back. The three of them looked rather cozy in the twin bed.

 

Their food was passed out. Caram took the bread but only seemed to be confused by the food, refusing to actually eat no matter what Legend asked or begged. They really needed to deal with this sooner rather than later.

“Come on kid, I’ll only be a minute just stay here with Ruly. You'll love him. Caram I gotta go relief myself. You know?” Caram however just whined until Legend was forced to drag the kid out after him so they could go pee on a tree together.

“No amount of teasing is worth this. Shut the fuck up wars.”

 

A cart had been pulled down the hillside, the wooden crate within it tied closed for their trip.

“Here he is. Everything I could find including the headstone. You can use this trade cart so you don't have to carry it. I thought perhaps that horse of yours might be up to the task Link.”

 

‘Of course! Epona is always happy to help.’

 

“Alright everyone let's get going! Wind is going to complain enough missing breakfast.” Legend huffed lifting the boy up onto the wagon and climbing in beside him.

 

“Archers on the sides. Wild I assume you're running?” Time huffed as he helped Twilight hook up Epona to the front of the cart.

 

‘Yes! I'll keep up and take out anything that gets close.’

 

“Right. No matter what Four and Legend you stay with Caram. Sky you'll stay at the very back and make sure nothing tries to climb inside. Twilight and I will drive.”

 

Wild could just overhear Warriors Time and Twilight argue over which direction to head.

“Shortest route is best even if it's more dangerous. We got nine heroes and Dinkle isn't here to make your monsters black blooded if we can't handle it, something is terribly wrong with us.

 

“Let's go then. you'll drive unless we need Wolfie for some reason.” Time agreed and so Twilight called for Epona to move.

 

“Papa where are we going?” Caram asked worriedly. Those bright blue eyes were deadly turning on each of them. Legend was quick to act thankfully.

“We’re going home Caram. It's okay.”

 

“Home?”

 

“Yes. Home. There's a sheikah we think can help you.” Legend sighed as Caram tucked himself under Legend’s arm. It was probably for the best. Wild ran through the fields following the wagon closely on all fours.

Monsters of course made pains of themselves but it wasn't anything a few arrows couldn't handle. That was until they reached the upper field. Monsters charged towards them in mass on raging boar like mounts and Wild had to snap at a few ankles to make them run off with their monster riders in tow. Fires had to be put out and everyone was on edge as flying birdlike creatures threatened to separate them from each other.

The calm as the group finally crossed onto the bridge was unsettling.

Wild followed but couldn't help but get curious, looking over the edge of the incredible, seemingly endless, hole the bridge spanned over.

It was then that he realized the depths had to be below. He wondered what that world would be like so young and new? Had the Zonai already started to transform the landscape? Would he find out what those statues were of down below if he jumped now?

 

“WILD!” Warriors yelled from the cart. “Don't you dare! get up here in the cart right now!”

Wild laughed as he raced to rejoin the group and climbed into the wagon.

 

Only a handful of monsters stood between them and the entrance of the old sheikah town. twilight slowly brought Epona to a stop and got down.

 

‘Impaz is inside. Who's carrying...’ Twilight’s sign trailed off as he glanced at Caram.

Wind never looked so scared like this. Caram was shaking and wide eyed, paralyzed against Legend side.

 

“Come on Legend. Carry him inside. We’ll get the rest.”

 

“You heard him kid. We’re home.” Legend gently roughed up his blond locks and Wild wished more than anything that Wind would put on his bravado act, huffing about not being a kid.

Instead, he was clinging to Legend’s back as the Vet carried him up the stone path. Twilight offered his lantern to Time before they entered some sort of tunnel made of stone.

Then, Twilight Warriors and Sky followed after them with the crate which carried all that was left of this boy.

Wild blinked back tears rubbing them away before anyone saw. He had pushed away his nerves and worry but now that they were here...

Wild blinked as he took in the abandoned city. He couldn't really see his sheikah living in a worn-down place like this. Most of the windows were broken throughout the line of buildings on each side of the main road. They honestly didn't look fit for even a Goron in this condition.

How could anyone live here?

Twilight pushed on without answering anything until they finally set the crate down outside the very last building. This one was reinforced and a dozen cats or so came out to greet Twilight specifically. They seemed wary of the rest of the group.

 

“This is the place twilight?” Time asked only giving the other man a minute to pet and hold the orange cat.

 

‘Yes. Here let me.’

Twilight knocked on the front door smartly, using a pattern, before the door was opened by a short little old lady?

 

“Oh Messenger of the heavens, it's you. Come in- you brought friends! Oh-”

She gasped pushing past them and heading straight for the crate and then to Wind.

“Oh, sweet child you've returned.”

 

The boy who had buried his face in Legend’s shoulder finally looked up.

“Chief?...”

 

“Set him down. Please young one.” Impaz gently hugged the boy but she was so tiny she could barely reach up to do so.

 

“What exactly happened to Caram?” Four asked her but she just shook her head.

 

“It is important we help him rest now before we talk. This is everything?”

 

“Yes. The shaman Renado assured us.” Time nodded and squeezed Four’s shoulder to ask the shorter hero for patience.

 

“Good. Good. It will take me some time- Oh I don't have the right- I'd need-”

And that was when Engineer came to kneel before her offering two little wooden dolls.

 

“These are ready for you. I made them myself and I made sure to bless them with the spring water in Kakariko. They just need his parents' names cut into them.”

 

“O-oh...” She shakily took them looking on the verge of tears at the gift.

 

“Boy... Please all of you come in. He should warm up by the fire. Yes. I'll make the final touches.”

Sky offered his carving knife and soon everyone piled into the small cabin. Everyone but Wild and Legend who waited just outside the open door. Wild was sure by Legends whole body language that he was hurting. Hurting and completely overstimulated.

 

Impaz waved warriors forward to stand behind Caram before she carefully finished the last of the work on the dolls. She cut her own white hair to tie around the dolls necks before gently offering them to the child.

“Your parents are right here. They will stay with you forever now. You can stay here forever too.”

 

“M-momma? Papa?” The boy was glassy eyed staring down at the dolls in his hands before his eyes fluttered rolling up and Wind fell back, fainting into Warriors’ arms.

 

“He should be free of the boy’s hold now. Keep him by the fire. Shock can do strange things to the body.”

Thank Hylia it was over. Or maybe don't thank her. She was the one who sent us here.

Wild rubbed his forehead before moving on to the next thing the group would need.

A nice hot meal something with sugar because Zelda had mentioned once how sugar helped with shock... He really hoped Wind woke up soon.

Notes:

I am very sorry this chapter was late but I have a real excuse this time, last Saturday I fainted after donating plasma. boooo. I made bad decisions and its my fault but I decided to be kind to myself and just rest up after that. A slightly longer chapter this time so I didn't have to leave you guys on another cliff hanger

Chapter 28: horsing around

As the latest portal closed behind them Wild let out an excited call.

‘This is mine!’

And then he winced as he helped both Four and Hyrule sit down. They were once again turning violent shades of green. Thankfully, they had cover in the form of a wooden awning with a firepit to rest by while they recovered.

He knew where they were and after a moment of thought signed to Time that he would be right back. He was just glad they had a place to rest as Wind was still recovering. The whole group breathed a deep sigh of relief as soon as the boy groaned at Time to stop staring at him and that he was fine. His complaints had continued as most of the chain forced him into hugs one by one. Warriors refused to let him walk anywhere, anytime soon.

They had barely gotten him to eat and drink when that portal had opened up right outside Impaz’s home.

 

It only took Wild a few minutes to get a handful of carrots and apples for the group given where they were.

 

He passed them out like candy breaking a few up so everyone who felt bad could have one including Wind. He then offered a few apples to Epona hoping to make her like him extra before they met the horse god. Being so close, of course they would have to say hello! It would be rude otherwise.

“Alright Wild, where are we. Where are we going from here?”

 

Wild excitedly pointed out the brightly glowing purple thing in the distance before signing to the group.

‘A great fairy is right there. The horse god! Malanya is very playful! They would love to meet Epona! Might even bless her. Malanya looks over all of the stables in Hyrule and has many mysterious powers such as moving horses for us and reviving horse who died.’

 

“Really... just horses?”

 

‘Yes, only horses. They are the only great fairy with these powers. The others only work with clothes.’

 

“I see... Yes that sounds like a good starting point... Where are we going after that?”

 

‘Up the hill there. There is a lab that has my stuff in it. I'll have to reclaim my Sheikah Slate.’

 

“How long will that travel be?...” Warriors asked lifting Wind back up into his arms.

 

Wild hesitated trying to map the trip out in his head...

‘You probably want to stay on the road...I'm not sure? A day?... We always walk sssso sssslow...’

 

“We walk so were all ready for a fight to the death at any moment. It's not our fault you sprint around like a devil all day long.”

 

‘We’ll have a dry place to stay at the laboratory at least.’

The weather was perfect and Wild was more than happy to collect the few plants along the way. After all, if he had his way, he would finally have the Sheikah Slate to put it in soon. Robbie had reclaimed the lab for his work.

There was enough ingredients inside it to actually start teaching the others how to cook properly!

He couldn't wait.

It wasn't until they were on the second bridge did Wild remember something important.

‘Wait! Wait! Twi Malanya is a bit... excited about you. They would always pick up Wolfie like the horses.’

 

‘Huh... well...’ Twilight frowned at the glowing mushroom like spring?... Water rested within the mushrooms like a flower holding the morning dew.

‘How exactly did they pick me up?... I'm not small...’

 

“Wait wild is your great fairies huge? Like building huge?” Warriors asked nervously shifting Wind onto his back.

‘Yeah! Big! Malanya doesn't look like the others though. They won't hurt you, Twilight. I just thought you'd want some warning.’

Wild snorted a laugh and suddenly sprinted forward to take his place at the front on the largest mushroom.

He wanted to show off, who wouldn't?

Just as he had hoped Malanya burst out of the water in all of their horse like glory. He could see they had scaring most of the other heroes. Their head twisted around floating between their detached hands. It was a moment before the horse god stopped dancing and finally took notice of the group.

They leaned out hands lifting them up a bit further to see everyone who had come to their place of worship.

“So, you have all finally come to me. I have been waiting, boy.”

‘Hi!’ Wild greeted with a little wave.

‘This is Epona! She’s not in the system yet.’

“And she can never be. She is meant for much more than our time has to offer her.”

Her huge hands reached out gently lifting Epona up off the ground and against her chest. Wild had been worried the first time this had happened so many years ago but not anymore. He hadn't met a single horse that failed to enjoy being treated like a cat.

Oh to be held by one’s own loving god.

“My dear sweet Epona. My Epona. My gift to you hero.”

‘She's my horse...’ Twilight slowly signed and Wild waved him up to join him.

“That she is. I made her for you long ago... One doesn't just /find/ a foal like her wandering around. No. She was made within my springs and she was destined to find you.”

Twilight gently reached up to pet the horse on the nose when she was offered back to the hero like Twilight might actually take her from the god’s hands.

‘Really?...’

“Once... long ago I was a light spirit. A long long time ago...”

‘Ordona...’

“Yes, that's right isn't it... I had forgotten... You are my child. The one who helped me. You will help me once more. Remember. When Epona is old and tired when she has given her last day to this world, return her to me. To my spring. You must do so or I, Malanya, the horse god will not exist here in this time.”

 

‘I will. I hope that time never comes.’

 

“There is only one who stands unaffected by time. It is not us who claim such a curse...”

Malanya gently set Epona down by Time and the horse happily nuzzled into the older hero.

“Someday you will also return to me, my child.” Malanya reached out sudden scooping Twilight up into their hands. He was too far up for Wild to actually see what he was signing.

“Yes. The boy will need you. I will be here to make sure you will.”

Malanya treated Twilight much like They did Wolfie, cuddling and holding him for several minutes before they finally agreed to set him back down.

“I have blessed your Epona. She will be safe on your journey. Boy you will feed me later for that. I expect a good carrot curry for it.”

 

‘I will! I promise! Exactly how you like it!’ Wild agreed quickly.

 

“If I may...” Time carefully pushed his way forward looking up at the horse god with a strange conflicted expression.

Malanya turned their attention onto him, hands shaking playfully.

“I have always trusted you to care for Epona. Continue to do so.”

 

“Of course... but...”

 

“If that is all, goodbye then.”

They lifted their hands to the sky in joy before splashing back down into the water leaving Time even more unsure than before.

 

“Are you alright old man?...”

 

“Yes... they just seemed... familiar...”

Notes:

Pushed myself to make sure I posted this on time! I love you guys and as always please let me know what you think! I really adore Malanya and I indulged myself sharing my headcanons for them

Chapter 29: That's a very nice Malon you have there...

Malon wasn’t one to worry. She could handle herself in most things in life. She had even been the one to teach Link about such things such as how to handle a farm or a stranger or dropping off deliveries by himself. It was a bit different to be home alone after living with Link and her father for so long. Her father was still in town hopefully picking out a few farm hands...

 

The stressed cry from one of her cows however? Now that got her attention real fast.

 

She wiped off her hands on her apron and ran out into the rapidly darkening afternoon. It wouldn’t be long before she would need a lantern to see by so she decided just to take the one by the door.

 

“Is that you, Clover? Clover!”

 

The crying continued followed by a few thumps from the cow kicking.

 

“Clo-” Malon’s heart jumped into her throat as a man pushed her up against the barn stall before she could reach her cow. Her lantern fell going out when it struck the stone floor and she was thankful that it didn't light the hay on fire.

 

Malon felt paralyzed with fear right up until she recognized the man. Even in the darkness she could make out those oversized eyebrows and that twisted mustache. Even worse that ridiculous noblemen ruff tickled her chin as he leaned over her.

 

“Ingo! Now what are you doin’ here?”

 

“Shut it. Get in the stall girl.”

 

“W-What…” She shivered as something cold pressed again her side.

 

Slowly Malon did as she was told backing up until she was against the barn wall. she could see the knife now in the light of the moon.

 

“Sorry…”

 

The knife raised up positioned to strike before Ingo literally tumbled forward against her. The man was then yanked back and then he disappeared into the darkness of a purple hole which had torn into the barn floor.

 

“T-that’s… the portal Link was mentionin’?...”

 

“Oh yes… I created that… seems you needed some help, Lady.…”

 

“S-seems I did… I… I'm gonna light my lamp now.”

 

A soft bell like chime echoed around them while Malon struggled to get her lantern to light in the dark.

 

“T-there now. I feel I have to thank you Mr.?...”

 

“Miss. The boys have been calling me Dinkle.”

 

The shorter shadowy figure finally stepped into the light and offered Malon a pleasant smile and a curtsy. Malon looked the strange woman over taking in her white hair and red eyes and instantly thinking she was some sort of Sheikha but her grey toned skin made her question that...

 

“I know this is a mess but it's always happened this way and it always will happen this way. Time loops are weird like that. Malon I'm not going to risk you getting hurt again. Not now that you are with child. I'd like to take you somewhere you'll be cared for and not have to do any farm work.”

 

“N-now hold on. Where- I want to see Link!”

 

“You will. Promise.”

Dinkle gently but firmly wrapped her arm around Malon's waist and her wrist. It didn't hurt but somehow Malon knew she wouldn't get out without a fight. The purple portal hummed ominously before them and then the farm was silent...

Notes:

I'm sorry its short this time guys but I couldn't help but leave it on such a perfect cliff hanger~~

Chapter 30: reclaiming the slate

“Familiar huh...” Legend murmured unhappily. Time slowly nodded still staring at the mushroom fountain with his singular blue eye.

 

“I hate to be forward... but would you all allow me to tell you all about my first adventure first?”

 

“Wait?”

 

“What?!” Wind’s screeched the loudest over the chain's exclamations.

 

“I'll tell you all how old I am. Really. So, this would be your last chance to change your bets.” Time turned to them all a playfully smirk on his face.

 

“I know you’d like to go home Time but-” Four was cut off by Time himself.

 

“No. I don't plan to go to Lon Lon Ranch. I'm looking for a friend I lost a long time ago. One I'm hoping Dinkle can help me find.”

Time’s smirk fell away leaving behind a venerable tired hurt.

“Let’s put it to a vote. Can I go first? Warriors?”

 

“I'd never tell you no on something like this, Time...”

 

Their leader quietly asked each of them in turn only getting acceptance and a tight hug from Sky himself.

 

“Thank you all. Wild we should continue on. I want Wind in a safe proper bed tonight. Can we do that?”

 

“I told you all, I’m fine! I can walk just fine!”

 

“Too bad kid.” Warrior’s grunted as he shifted the boy on his back. “Deal with it.”

 

“You’d do the same for any of us Sailor.” Sky remarked cheerfully.

 

Wild nodded looking up the side of the hill. He couldn't see much but he was pretty sure it wouldn't be that bad of a hike. It wasn't like there were guardians out and about anymore.

‘Let's just stick together. Sneak as much as we can and use bows when we can't. There are some monsters but it's not bad.’

Wild took the lead sprinting ahead to collect extra food and rice. It was just habit at this point really and he knew where to find everything for once.

 

“Wild!” Legend called him back to the group holding out the map he had copied from the forgotten temple.

“Where are we, Wild?”

With a playful huff Wild looked over the map and pulled out his charcoal to add a few key locations to the map including the cities and Great Fairies. Then he drew a small dotted line up the hillside towards Robbie’s lab.

“Thanks. Wow... We aren't going very far, are we?”

 

‘This will probably take us all day. It looks small on the map but we are going uphill...’

 

“Where is your house?”

Wild let out a surprised meow before marking both Zelda's and then his own house. How could he have forgotten that?

 

‘Alright everyone. Let's sneak from here. Follow behind me and if I shoot be ready to join in with your own arrows.’ Wild directed prompting Legend to put away the map before they spent all day just updating that instead of making progress. if he had his way he would have the slate’s map soon anyway.

 

The sun was already racing the chain, rising higher and higher as Wild snuck the chain past several monsters and a pack of wolves. He would normally clear these monsters himself but he figured Wind was already angry enough. If there was a fight he would be pissed being forced to the back of the group.

 

Right around mid-day Wild excitedly pointed out the stable that awaited them on the road to the laboratory.

He waved excitedly over his head which was quickly returned by the hylian’s that stayed there.

“Link! Welcome. Welcome! I see you've paid your respects to the horse god. How can I help you today?”

Wild stepped up to speak with the stablemaster excitedly signing his greeting to Rudi.

 

“It's nice to see you again! It's been a while! Thanks again for clearing out those nasty Yiga. They haven't been bothering us as much since Robbie returned too. Would you all like to stay the night? Or oh! Thats a new horse!”

“Yeah, we’d like to register her. Her name is Epona.”

Wild hesitated looking back at Time as Aya came around to take Epona from Twilight.

‘I could go on by myself. I’d be back within an hour...’

 

“Twilight and I can go with you. Warriors’ will stay here and everyone else can rest. It's been a long day.”

 

Wild nodded firmly. ‘We’ll take all the beds you have free.’

 

“This is a big group you got... Are these new recruits for the monster control crew?...”

 

Wild sniggered and nodded his head.

‘They’re new. You guys can trust them.’

 

Warriors stepped forward to pay then walked inside the tented stable to force Wind down on one of the free beds.

‘Could you make sure they get lunch? I'll pay as soon as I get back.’ Wild signed as he said his goodbyes. It only took the three of them a few minutes to finally leave the music and safety behind.

 

Wild stayed close to Twilight and Time now, leading them up the much steeper hillside.

“I can't help but notice the stables look like the horse god.” Time asked after they slipped past the barrier of stone frogs and the shrine on the way.

‘Yes. Malanya protects the stables for the horses. Many say they are one of the few reasons hylians survived the great calamity at all... Malanya and the
Sheikah of course...’

Wild kept his eyes forward ignoring how Time and Twilight shared a look.

‘We need to head more that way. Moblins. Monsters there. See?’ The Zonai pointed out the little patch of silver monsters he could see in the distance and pushed them more to the left walking closer to the cliff side.

He barely took notice of the free restoration materials on their left or the second barrier of stone frogs. Wild was too excited to see Robbie once more and reclaim his slate.

 

The round stone building awaited them and Wild pushed past the broken rubble and ignored the broken lantern room which had long ago fallen from the top of the old light house which Robbie had reclaimed as his laboratory.

An oversized telescope pointed toward what used to be the castle and a crane hung out over the cliff side. Wild pushed inside and Twilight let out an exclamation.

‘Why didn't you knock?’

 

“Link!” Wild ignoring Twilight as Robbie yelled his greeting.

 

“Hero!” Both Robbie and Josha ran forwards to greet him equally excited. Josha had grown taller while he was away and Wild playfully teased her white hair.

 

“So glad you're here! Come here. Translate this here right now! Quickly before whatever is teleporting you, takes you again!”

 

‘I'm here for the slate. I’m not doing any work until it's in my hand. Now Robbie.’

 

“Ahhh! But Cherry works so much better with it!! You can't-”

 

Wild pulled out a letter pointing out Zelda's last written words to him telling him it was the most important thing for him to do. ‘Now Robbie!’

 

“Ahhh... I see...” Wild rolled his big blue eyes as Robbie acted all heart broken.

 

“It's okay Robbie! Let's make our own! One better than the purah pad!” Sweet Josha smiled down at the older scientist and after a moment he perked back up.

 

“Yes! Yes of course!” He ran around behind the little statue pulling out the familiar slate to offer it back to Wild.

It seemed to hum in his hands in greeting like an old friend. Wild opened the main screen checking that everything still worked.

“There are no runes on it since I needed the space for cherry but all of your old items are still inside there. Including your money...” Robbie admitted the last bit a little reluctantly.

“Purah can probably restore the runes.”

 

‘Thankyou Robbie. Now what did you want translated.’ Wild kindly offered as he glanced back at Twilight and Time. They were patiently waiting only curiously looking around the room.

‘I'm still hoping to see Zelda tonight so let's hurry.’

 

As Wild started translating several pages for Robbie Twilight curiously looked through the history books Robbie had on the far wall.

“I assume you two are apart of the group Zelda has mentioned? I assume you are Twilight and you are?...” Robbie asked when he took notice of them.

 

“Time. We’ve managed a quiet moment thanks to Hylia. We aren't sure how long we’ll be here...”

 

“Yes, yes Zelda mentioned something about that. How interesting. The idea that you could be changing the timelines as we speak, just by being here... I doubt I will get to see the interesting ways our world will change! Josha you'll likely be the one to see it- ho ho!”

 

“Don't talk like that Robbie!”

 

“Oh no I don't mean it like that. I think I've seen enough, to be honest. The world as it was and how it is now... I'm just glad we are finally healing.”

 

‘All done! I go get Zelda now! Be right back!’ Wild signed cutting into the heart felt moment and with only a few swipes on his glowing slate he disappeared into blue whisps of ancient technology.

 

Wild teleported to Zanmik shrine and flew across the town. He landed into a sprint to Zelda's home. The champion only got tired as he ran across the bridge. He wouldn't waste a single second with her now that he was so close!

Her front door slammed against the wall as he let out a crying call.

 

Belatedly Wild took notice that Zelda sat with someone else at the table.

“Link!”

 

Shit.

 

Wild just knew he was going to hear all about his decisions as he hugged Zelda tightly to his side. He didn't want to take his eyes off this person.

 

Dinkle sat across from the princess calmly sipping her own tea. She waited for them with a grin that made her look like a cat.

“Finally. I thought you'd never show up Wild. Come on in. Sit with us.”

Notes:

Time is planning some stuff. He doesn't realize anything happened with Malon but we all know she is gonna hear the loudest I told you so. Wild really isn't happy Flora was alone with Dinkle either. (It doesn't matter what Hylia said)
Wild is also going be told off for leaving so quickly I'm sure but that's a problem for the future.
As always comments give me a contact high and I hope you all are taking care of yourselves!

Chapter 31: Meeting Flora

“She was just telling me such interesting tales, Link! And I cant believe some of the things you wrote in your letters.” Zelda excitedly gushed, already pouring Wild a cup of tea as well.

 

It was weird sitting down at their kitchen table with a past? Enemy? Like this?

Wild kept his eyes on the dark Linkle, thoughtful about the things Hylia had told them.

“We won’t be staying long. I managed to find what I was looking for while chasing after you lot.” She hummed grey hands wrapped around a steaming mug, her red eyes gleaming in the light.

 

While he was certain thanks to Hylia that Dinkle was acting in their best interests, Wild had long ago realized that good intentions didn’t mean that no one could get hurt. He stayed right beside Zelda his hand in hers as the white haired woman sipped her tea. She was acting like this was all no big deal and honestly Zelda wasn’t helping, chatting at Wild about the history Dinkle had been willing to share and even giggled at one of the woman’s jokes.

“Wild.” Dinkle finally sighed. “We will be leaving this time today. I didn’t /want/ to bring us here so soon… Will you tell me what the chain has been doing since you last saw me?”

Wild hesitated wishing Time or Warriors were here to make this decision.

 

‘We met Sun. The first Zelda who…’

Wild trailed off and worriedly glanced at his own Zelda.

‘Who is also Hylia reborn. She told us you-maybe-weren’t evil and you were working with us.’

 

“… I never expected a glowing review from her but…” Dinkle frowned and started picking at her long sharp nails. Was she trying to act like she didn't care? “What exactly did she say?”

 

‘Something about a boot and grass.’ Wild shrugged as he signed one handed. ‘You’ll have to ask the others.’

 

Dinkle sighed and rubbed at her forehead in frustration.

“And this is why I’m the one in charge.”

 

After a quiet moment, Wild leaned forward, suddenly signing with both hands. If they could trust her, then she needed to know.

‘Wind got possessed by a ghost. He isn’t ready to move yet.’

 

“A ghost? What weird quest did Hylia send you on now… hm… I suppose… fine! But you are getting back to work tomorrow.”

The table rattled as Dinkle stood and promptly walked out of the house without so much as a goodbye.

 

Wild stared at the door for a bit before turning back to Zelda to hug her again.

“Oh Link- Oh I’m so glad you’re back.”

 

‘I missed you.’ He signed before grinning and offering his hand to her.

‘The others are waiting. Let’s go.’

 

“W-wait but Link… I um…” She rubbed her hands together.

“…Okay let’s go. I’m just nervous.”

 

‘They’ll love you. Stop worrying your lip.’

He watched her force out a few deep sighs to calm down before nodding.

 

“Where are we going?”

 

‘Stables. Here.’ Wild pointed on the map on her purah pad and waited for her to teleport first before hitting his own.

 

Wild dragged Zelda down the hillside by her hand. He could just see Time outside the stable sitting by the fire.

Oh right. He was probably in trouble for leaving so quickly.

Before they could start yelling at him, Wild excitedly pulled Flora between them and signed their introduction.

‘Time, Flora. Flora, Time. I found her!’

 

“I see that. I can tell by your face you already know what you did was wrong.” Time said sternly.

 

‘Yes! Sorry! But I have more to tell you! I found Flora with Dinkle.’

 

“Dinkle?” Time suddenly leaned forward his disappointed dad act falling into true worry.

“Are you alright Flora?”

 

“Fine! I’m fine we were just talking!” Zelda squeaked before clearing her throat and trying to regain some control over herself.

She had made speeches Infront of thousands of soldiers. Had performed so many religious ceremonies over the years- She shouldn’t be embarrassed just because a huge group of heroes were all staring at her.

“I was startled at first of course but she was lovely.”

‘She seemed upset that she lost us.’ Wild offered when Flora trailed off. ‘She asked me what we were doing, and I decided to tell her about some small details like meeting Sun and that Wind was hurt.’

“I see... is there anything else?”

‘She said we were leaving tomorrow... that she found what she had been looking for?’

“Yes! She was telling me about that. It’s a dungeon one that holds an artifact she wished to retrieve!” Zelda smiled glad she could help even a little bit.

“A dungeon... There are those of us who have never been inside a dungeon before...” Time sighed as Wild raised his hand.

 

‘What's a dungeon?’

 

“Sort of like the divine beasts or the temples but much much bigger. A dungeon is like all the shrines put together in one big maze. And if the manuscripts are to be believed every door is locked.” Zelda answered before time could. “But she was saying this dungeon would be ridiculous. That you would need breaks, and I would see you then, Link-Wild.”

 

Time slowly sighed and nodded.

“We’ll just have to be ready for it. Wars.” Time called into the tent.

 

“Why don't you introduce Flora to the others.”

 

Wild wasn't dumb enough to stick around for their strategizing. He honestly thought it looked more like worrying.

Flora had been nervous at first but after seeing her hero's wrestling across one of the many beds she was violently reminded these hero's were just people.

Wild was happy to introduce her to each of them, starting with twilight.

‘Don't worry we all know about Wolfie now.’

 

“Really? What happened? I'm so glad to see you again!” Flora smiled up at the Rancher.

 

‘I ended up taking a bad hit as Wolfie. If Wild hadn't acted it could have been bad.’ Twilight admitted.

‘It was something like malice.’

“No! Wild do you have what you need? Oh I feel so stupid-” Flora suddenly jerked her purah pad off her hips and violently started dumping as many healing items and sundelions onto the floor as she could.

 

“O-oh! Hey!” Poor Four actually tripped on one of the skittering glass bottles and Wild had to stop her from making even more of a mess.

 

‘That's enough. You need some too just incase! I can’t take everything. Everyone start picking up some of these. We should all have some.’

“S-sorry- I might have gotten a bit carried away. Are you okay?” Zelda carefully came over to help Four up.

 

“Fine. Not the worst fall I've taken.” He laughed holding up the red bottle he had fallen on.

 

“Worth it for this. Where did you get all of this?”

 

“Oh, this is just stuff Wild had. He likes to collect... just about everything.”

 

‘You tease but its made all the difference. Both for my adventures and this one.’

 

“Oh, Goddess yes!” Legend groaned from his own bed. “You have no idea how badly we were eating before you joined the group.”

 

‘I think I can imagine.’ Wild signed expression deadpanned and serious. ‘You guys are going to learn how to cook properly. Soon.’

 

Flora fit right in, excitedly asking so many questions about the most obscure things.

Apparently Hyrule's time didn't even have frogs??

 

Their chatting went long into the night and Wild begged Flora to stay while she could and then he bribed her with steak potatoes and fruit cake and one of the beds they had paid for. It took him a even longer time to talk her into taking the bed.

He had just pulled out his own beddings when Wind called to him from his own bed.

“Wildddd...”

Ahhh the joys of hurt whiny kids. Fondly Wild came over and checked over the boy.

 

‘How are you?’

 

“Cold. Get in here.”

And so, with a snort Wild climbed into the bed and threw his blankets over them both.

 

Wind yawned again before speaking up.

“I really like Flora...” Wild smiled as the boy snuggled into his furry arm.

 

‘Go to sleep.’

 

“What are you gonna turn into a were-cat again if I don’t?”

Wild scoffed loudly before an evil idea dug into his brain

 

‘I’ll show you were-cat!’

And then he leaned down licking Wind’s face from his chin to his forehead.

 

“AAAH! You nasty fuckin’-” Their pillow was roughly yanked out from under Wild’s head and whacked into his snout.

 

"Ya great asshole!  Why does your tongue feel like ah saw!"

Wild purred loudly and slowly stuck his long cat tongue out so Wind could see all the fine nearly white, hairlike structures.
It was meant to help drink water, or at least that's what Wild thought but Wind was right, his tongue was incredibly rough, almost like sandpaper.
"Woahhh! That's so weird!!"

 

Wild purred louder, gently pushing Wind to lay back down and stop fighting.

 

“I think Wind is actually the cat. I can’t believe he and Sky are already sleeping.” Legend grumbled after a few minutes of the kid’s soft snoring.

Wild slowly signed over Wind’s head so he wouldn’t disturb him.

‘I'm just glad he is resting. I have a bad feeling about tomorrow...’

Notes:

We are finally firmly in act two people! I hope you enjoyed this! I'm excited to move on to the dungeon and see more of Dinkle~ feel free to drop a comment down below if you have any fun ideas for the boys to fight/tackle :D

Chapter 32: Therapy with Time

The morning came too soon and Wild gently tickled Zelda’s nose until she bopped him in the snout.

“Link- Link!”

 

He shhhed her hoping they hadn't bothered the others.

‘Coffee? We can sit outside.’

 

“Right. Before you must go.” Flora stretched and climbed out of the stable bed.

 

They quietly snuck out to sit by the fire. Wild threw a blanket over Zelda’s shoulders and put a cup of coffee into her hands so make her stop shivering.

‘Legend has been teaching me how to take off the Aspect’s Aura.’

 

“Really?? Thats an option now?”

 

‘Yes! I can do it by myself.’

 

They spent well over an hour together Flora happily dissecting everything that had happened so far in Wild’s sketch book. Wild rumbled in greeting when Time came to join them offering food and coffee to him as well.

“You are a true blessing Wild. We don’t thank you enough.” Time murmured between bites of tomato and eggs.

 

‘Don’t thank me yet. I have enough supplies now to teach the others learn how to cook.”

 

“Some of us I’m certain just don’t want to learn. You’ll have troubles with them…”

 

‘I can handle them. I assume Wind and?...’

 

“Wars. Maybe Four. I can’t tell if he is serious about the fire thing.”

 

‘And you aren’t on the list?’ Wild teased playfully.

 

“Oh who me? Noooo.” Time laughed. “I’m just not good at it. I’d love to learn. Surprise my wife with something nice…”

Wild grinned already making plans on what Malon might like.

 

‘I think I can manage it. They just need new ways to cook.’ Wild chuckled. ‘I believe you all can do it!’

 

They each got up slowly, giving Wild plenty of time to cook a hot breakfast for each of them.

 

Hyrule suddenly choked trying to quietly clear his throat and pointed up at the tent.

Time jerked to his feet and Wild tensed expecting a fight. Dinkle sat on the edge of the tent quietly kicking her feet. Wild sort of wanted those little black shoes... Focus Wild!

 

“No. Please don't bother saying hello or anything.” She giggled wiggling her fingers at them in a lazy wave.

 

“Would you like to join us?” Time’s voice was serious despite his offer.

 

“Time?” Warriors asked worriedly but stopped as the grey skinned woman dropped down and slowly approached their tense group of heroes.

 

“You want something Time. I can tell.”

 

“I do. I want to share my adventure next.”

 

“I fully expected that.” She giggled coming to sit down on one of the wooden stumps around the fire like it was nothing. Like she wasn't one wrong move away from losing her head.

 

“What do you want then? To go home?”

 

“I want to find Navi.”

 

“Of. Course. You. Do.” She said it slowly, rolling her at the early morning sun.

“You would. Perhaps I'm just getting impatient. The one thing we have plenty of is time after all... fine. But after this you all are going to focus on your training! Can we agree on that?”

 

“Yes. We’ll make progress on this dungeon we heard about.”

 

“Fine. Tell them about your first adventure. I can at least pretend to leave if that helps.” She shrugged and nodded.

Time shook his head and settled back down beside Wild and Warriors once more.

“It doesn’t matter. I want to be honest. I don’t tell people about any of this. I just told Malon all of it. Everyone else… Well you can just see it on their face. They think I’m lying or making it bigger than it really was. If anything, I made it sound better than it was. I know it's stupid of me to care. Feeling like that.”

 

“It's not. It's not dumb or stupid. It happened. If anyone is going to understand it's us.” warriors pushed his shoulder against Time’s trying to help him relax.

 

Time stared down at the fire between them and Wild thought the older man actually looked… shy. Embarrassed.

 

Time kept a brave face though, telling them all abut being a nine year old suddenly being given a nagging fairy and sent to go speak with his father the great deku tree.

He looked around the group after explaining this, searching each of their expressions.

Ten heroes a princess and a dark entity all stared back with various looks of sympathy but also understanding. Strength.

“Come on Sprite. We’re all too alike to not believe you. It’s just confusing when your all jokey or mysterious.”

 

For another quiet moment Time digested Warrior’s words.

“Then you were correct. I was just being silly. Trying to foolishly protect myself I think…”

 

“Well, what was it like being raised by The Great Deku Tree?”

 

“Now that was twenty years ago… I’m not as old you lot think I am… at least not in any way I can prove. After all, I did grow up in the Lost Woods. A place notorious for keeping people alive for much longer than they should. I don't have any record of my parents...” He shrugged. “But for my mental health I've just decided I'm the same age as Malon.”

Time smiled, ignoring the money passing hands and continuing his story.

“He was good. He didn’t step in unless one of us needed him so I suppose I didn’t have a strong emotional attachment… not like Saria or the other children.”

He told them about each child. How much he missed them even now and then quietly told them about how despite his best efforts to fight the evil from within The Great Deku Tree his first father figure had died…

He had been sent out into a wide confusing world that tested him at every turn.

Gender, age, fighting skills, social norms.

“After talking with my Zelda, a child with foresight, she told me to collect certain objects of elemental power so that we together could stop Ganondorf. A man she had dreamed would bring ruin our kingdom. That went about as well as you all probably expected. I was nine. Easily distracted and confused. I remember spending a week just fishing…”

Several of the boys laughed and Wars tossed his arm over Time’s shoulders.

“But I eventually did return to the castle with the three spiritual stones. However. Just as I was entering a white horse ran out. At first I only saw Impa but almost out of sight I could see Zelda’s pink dress and frightened expression… She tossed her ocarina out into the river. This blue one here.”

Time pulled it out slowly turning it over to show them.

Beside them Sky gasped.

“May I?...”

 

“Of course… Though no one but Zelda can truly unlock its full potential.”

Sky’s eyes were wide as he ran his hands over the material.

 

“We call this TimeShift Stone. Never break this. Never strike it. This is amazing… this is the same material I used to go back in time… I think, if I could play maybe I could…”

 

“Don’t!”

Time suddenly reached out holding Sky’s hands just to be sure.

“We already know from Wind, using this doesn’t fix things. It just creates separate timelines-”

 

Sky slowly breathed through his nose trying to remain calm and Wild could already guess why. If it hadn't helped Time... If Sky had used something similar... Had he left his own original timeline?... Wild would have to talk to him later about that. What did it mean to use time travel at all... He met flora’s eyes and could tell she was thinking the same about their own journey...

“Please… take it. You… you should keep going. What happened next?”

 

Time carefully took the little blue ocarina holding it against his chest protectively and retook his seat.

“I don’t plan to ever use this ocarina for time travel again… I still use it for other magic. Such as a song I can play to summon a storm… I didn’t have time to get the ocarina right away. Ganondorf himself rode out of castle town after them and at nine years old I lied right to his face. Actually his horse looked just like that red one you have Wild. Only his had metal armor. I had thought I knew everything. I thought I would save Zelda, if only I had the master sword. I went and opened the temple of time by myself to claim the sword as my own.”

Time’s eyes lingered on the blade which rested on Sky’s back. While there were three of the swords around their little campfire, Sky’s looked the most like Time’s own.

“And that’s when it all went wrong. I pulled the master sword only for the sword to tell me I was too young. Too inexperienced. I woke up very confused in a body too big and alone.”

 

“What- Wait what the fuck does that mean?” Legend demanded.

“It means that sword sealed me away until I was physically an adult. Mentally I was still nine.”

 

“That’s fucking bullshit! It’s no wonder you are so confused about your age!” Wind yelped

 

“Yes. But I found I wasn’t actually alone. A Shiekah… well perhaps we could say, a Shiekah trained Hylian greeted me.”

 

Time told them all about the boy who had become his closest friend during those dark days, about how dark and dead his world had become in this new adult time and how he had learned he could turn back time with the master sword returning to his childlike body.

They listened on bated breath as Time’s story came to its conclusion.

“That’s when the castle started to shake and crumble. I barely got the princess out before it collapsed completely around us. Ganon had decided if he couldn’t have hyrule then no one could. I had lost the Master sword in the fight but I still pushed on to defeat this monstrously transformed Ganondorf. Zelda used her light powers helping me deal the final blows and we had thought we had won.

And then it was quiet… she had allot to say… but I… I think I was just in shock.

Too shocked to stop her when she played this ocarina sending me back to my childhood… a world which didn’t remember half of the things I had done to protect it. A world where Ganondorf was put in chains and sealed away instead of killed… and that split in time caused all of you to be here. Wind would have never needed to be a hero if I had managed to properly kill Ganondorf with the master sword. Legend if I hadn’t died. Twilight if I had been strong enough to demand I be the one to kill Ganondorf in a timeline he technically hadn’t done anything wrong in yet.”

 

Dinkle’s tinkling laughter broke them all out of the moment. she continued to giggle even as they stared.

“What? what is funny?” Time asked voice growing angry.

“Ohoh! I am just...ha-ha! I'm just constantly surprised by how massive your ego really is! You think this is all your fault somehow? That you caused everything bad in the world somehow? Don't be ridiculous. The only person you affected with your little timeline split was Wind.”

 

“But... are you sure?”

 

“Am I sure?” She rolled her red eyes again at him. “Did you really just ask that? Of course I’m sure I lived it! Now! It's up to you to find her.”

Dinkle pulled out a little handbell and softly rang it. It started out quiet but quickly grew in power, echoing around them until their ears rang and their teeth hurt with each pulse of sound.

When Wild opened his eyes the magic of the portal greeted them and Dinkle had disappeared leaving them to say their goodbyes...

Wild didn't have much time and so he practically jumped Flora, hugging her as tightly as he could.

“O-oh Link...” She hugged him back cuddling into his neck until the last of the heroes gently put their hand on his shoulder. Twilight and Epona waited for him so they could go through together. Wild waved as he held onto his mentor. He really needed to see Flora again soon. The one day hadn't been enough. Some part of him knew he wouldn't willingly stop the others from taking their turns first. It would probably be a long time before he saw her again...

They stepped into a small spring. The water fresh and clear and surrounded by fairies.

 

“Does anyone recognize this place?” Time finally asked after he stopped looking. He had checked each fairy twice. She wasn't here...

‘This is Ordon. This is The Great Spring of Ordon. Home of the Spring of Light. The Spirit of Ordona.”

“The Spirit Malanya said they were born from...”

‘Yes... Time what did Navi look like? There are other springs maybe I've seen her.’ Twilight signed desperate to help.

“Well... Navi she...” Time looked up at the Spring looking dazed...

Notes:

I want to be clear here I've never actually played OOT. If you spot anything I got wrong please tell me! I hope you enjoyed this~ I promise there will be more conversations about what Time actually said. As always I adore you all and feel free to drop a comment!

Chapter 33: Navi

Notes:

I've made a mistake on the slates order. I've changed it to match what I intended. (twilight was 11 now he is 13. Wild was 18 now he is 20.)

“Well…” Time gently waved one of the many fairies off of his hair and sighed.

“She was beautiful. Long blue hair with blue wings. The same color as sailor’s shirt but a bit more teal…”

 

Twilight hummed coming to stand beside Time. Slowly a frown crossed his face at the description.

‘That sounds… like my great fairy. The Great Fairy of Winds.’

 

“You have a great fairy?”

 

‘Only the one.’

 

“Can we go see her?”

 

‘I can talk to her from here.’ Twilight assured before walking confidently to the water's edge and signing his greeting to empty space?...

The chain crowded around behind him and Time.

Wild couldn’t quite see anything beyond a soft light. He honestly would have overlooked it if Twilight hadn’t pointed it out.

 

“Welcome hero…” He gasped as a soft voice returned the greeting.

 

‘Would you come see me? Is that possible?’ Twilight interpreted her usual reminder to her the fairy tears.

 

There was a long silence.

 

“That is… possible… however the magic required won’t be free. I need rupees if I am to manage it.”

 

Wild grinned pushing forward and shaking his shiekah slate until hundreds of rupees started raining onto the ground before the light.

He just kept going until the soft voiced woman said something.

“That is enough hero. I will be moving permanently. Are you sure about this spring being suitable?”

 

‘Yes. Ordona is a good home.’ Twilight signed before suddenly blushing and pulling the other two heroes back.

 

A hand reached out from the growing light, wind swirled around them and the water from the spring suddenly lifted up, reshaping the land to hold the great fairies pool of water as well.

 

The water overflowed mixing with the springs of Ordona until the two were as one.

A woman stood before them, feet floating on the top of the spring water. She only wore a bit of white cloth around her waist and a pair of gold arm bands.

Her long teal hair covered her chest but only just barely.

 

“Wow!! That was amazing!” Wind exclaimed before yelping as Legend smacked him in the back of the head.

 

“Shhh!”

Wild could see why Legend would react like that.

 

Slowly, almost hesitating to actually speak with her, Time approached the woman.

“Navi?...”

 

“Are you lost hero?”

She smiled softly up at him, her iridescent wings fluttering behind her, shining in the light of the sun.

 

“Do you remember me?...”

 

“Have we met? I’m afraid not. I am a rather young great fairy…”

 

“….” Time frowned down at the water below them, struggling to make up his mind.

“Once, I had a fairy. A blue one named Navi. She was so amazing and kind. She worried about me constantly. And then she left after our adventure and I’ve haven’t seen her since… Is there any chance that fairy was you?”

 

“Oh yes. That is possible. Your little fairy born there could have told you… fairies are not beings the way you hylians are. We are made of magic. When that magic transforms into something else, there is nothing physical to store those memories. We simply don’t have a real body like that.”

She gently reached up, holding his cheek.

“But if I am your fairy… then I am so glad you’ve grown up. You’ve kept yourself safe. I’m proud of you hero.”

 

“Okay. Come on.” Warriors murmured and Four was fast on his heels, forcing everyone outside of the spring to give them some space.

Wild hesitated to leave Twilight with Time alone but Warriors held firm, grabbing his forearm like a child.

“We can wait out here for them. Let’s not make it any more of a spectacle please guys. Wild? Maybe you could make lunch while we wait?...”

 

Wild rumbled his agreement. He grinned as he approached Hyrule.

‘Let’s cook together.’

 

“W-wait- Wild no Hyrule can’t cook for shit!” Legend yelped and suddenly everyone was watching them.

Wild just grinned wider. It probably looked frightening.

 

‘Please Hyrule? I want to teach you!’

 

‘Yes!! I want to learn!’ Hyrule jumped up excitedly.

 

‘I know he can cook. He just hasn’t had the information or the ingredients.’

Wild signed to Legend before asking him to stay as a translator for them.

 

“Fine. Whatever just don’t poison us Hyrule.”

 

‘Downer. You’ll eat and be happy.’

The way Hyrule signed that almost… looked like a threat and Wild laughed.

 

‘What normally stops you from cooking for yourself?’

 

Hyrule paused before answering.

‘No fire. It isn’t always safe to have one. That’s why I normally age or dry my food.’

 

Wild hummed looking through his slate to decide on what would be best then…

‘What about seafood? Do you have access to fish?’

 

‘Yes. I’m good at fishing.’

 

Wild nodded changing his plans and starting a fire with one of his flame swords.

“Woahhh! Can I see that??”

 

‘Not in a forest. Later. Better go find something to do before I make you cook too.’ Wild teased.

 

“EEughh.” Wind groaned running off down the path before the others could stop him. He dragged poor Engineer after him.

 

“You guys stay here.”

Wars sighed and hurried of after the two of them.

 

Wild hummed watching them go for a bit before turning back to Hyrule.

‘We won’t use the fire. I want to show you how to cook your way. Most people can make wine and vinegar?’

 

‘Yes! Vinegar is cheap. Wine is expensive.’

 

‘Good. We can use it to cook for us.’

Hyrule stared up at him with wide eyes as he pulled out all the ingredients they needed as well as a pot.

A knife and a cooking pot lid to chop on and they were ready to start.

Wild hummed to himself as he started chopping, then he gestured for Hyrule to take over.

 

The fish was almost done when Time and Twilight finally left the spring. The oldest man’s cheeks and eyes were still red and a bit puffy but beyond that he seemed in good spirits.

“Water?” Legend offered holding out his waterskin.

 

“Thanks... Thanks for being patient with me.” Time settled down by the fire.

 

“Yeah. Wars and Wind and Engie went off that way... I think Epona went with them.”

 

‘My house is that way. They’ll be fine.’ Twilight assured. ‘They're probably exploring in there...’

 

“Does that bother you? Them going through your things?” Four asked from his seat beside Sky. The god slayer had already fallen asleep against a tree.

 

‘Nah. The kids of the village won't leave my things alone.’ Twilight’s laugh was gravelly as he answered.

‘But I suppose we’ll have to stay here the night. Maybe restock in castle town tomorrow... you guys should go grab some fairies before we go. There are plenty in the spring.’

 

‘I can carry all of them now.’ Wild held out his slate to show them.

‘They don't seem to mind as long as I don't keep them too long.’

 

“You never explained that mysterious artifact you have.” Time asked and he curiously leaned in to watch Wild scroll through the hundreds of items it held.

 

‘Want to see?’ Wild offered and held it out. He was glad to distract Time even if he knew they wouldn't be able to use the slate. No one else, not even Zelda could after all. That was why they had made the purah pad for her after all.

However, as Time took the device a new window opened.

 

New User registered.

Backing up storage for User LD-Link-20.

Creating new User Profile for LD-Link-3.

Profile Created.

Welcome.

 

Slowly Time flipped through the blank slate curious about how it worked.

“What did it say? I didn’t understand.”

‘It’s never done that before...’ Wild signed what it had said on the screen in shiekah text for them. The Zonai dropped an onion near Time and with Wild helping, the old man used the slate to collect it in blue fragments. That onion was now the only thing being held in Time’s storage.

“I... wait... so it called Time, LD-Link-3 and you 20 right?... What if this is how we place each other in the timeline.” Four suddenly exclaimed, eyes a bright purple in the sunlight.

Notes:

I hope you guys enjoyed this! If you have any thought on the chap go ahead and put them down in the comments! As always love you guys! Take care of yourselves!

Chapter 34: Slate profiles

Notes:

I've made a mistake on the slates order. I've changed it to match what I intended. (twilight was 11 now he is 13. Wild was 18 now he is 20.)

Wild excitedly took his slate from Time and offered it to each of his brothers.

He wrote down each new number excitedly within his journal for Flora.  When had she become Flora in his head instead of Zelda?...
Four was first.
The screen flashed greeting him as LD-Link-5.

"Would have been funny if it was four."  Four snorted before he blinked giving Wild a confused look.
"Wait but I'm after Sky and before Time. Time is Three!  I should be two. Maybe. Or four but why five?..."
Wild just shrugged watching Four count on his fingers for a moment before moving on to Twilight.

 

"Don't panic Four it's probably not even a pattern..." Time offered a quiet reassurance.

Wild handed Twilight his slate next curious what his number would be.
This he had to know.

Twilight was promptly greeted as LD-Link-13.
"Weird... clearly this isn't in order.  You should be after me.  Four or five."  Time said thoughtfully.
"Legend next?"

Wild passed it to Legend who hesitated before taking it.
Legend was labeled as LD-Link-2.
"Hyrule you next."

 

Hyrule took the slate and Wild excitedly told the others he was first. It greeted Hyrule as LD-Link-1.
'Why? I don't understand.'

Wild just shrugged again.
'I don't know much either. I've never found anyone else who could use it properly.  They said something about the hero's spirit?...'

 

"So only we could use it.  Or more specifically only you could in your time... you lot wake up Sky. Twi and I will go get the others.  We'll have lunch here before entering the town." Time ordered before heading down the forest path with Twilight.

 

Wild signed instructions to Hyrule on how to use the slate for easy portions.
"That's practically cheating." Legend grumbled as he kicked Sky awake.
"Hey! Stand up!  Don't you go back to sleep-" Legend jumped to the side as Sky nearly grabbed him for sleepy cuddling.
"Absolutely not you air head.  Up! I'll just keep yelling until you get up."
Sky gave him a harsh glare before forcing himself to sit up properly.
"We've been playing with Wild’s new toy. It's been telling us some sort of code. I'm apparently LD-Link-2.  The others all have similar titles."

"Oh! I'm LD-Link-16."
Wild wasn't sure what expression he was making but everyone else gave Sky very confused looks.

 

"How do you know that?"

 

"Oh I met a little robot who gave me that name once!  I assumed it was about where I met him my name and how old I looked.."
Just as predicted when Wild handed him the slate it did indeed greeted Sky as LD-Link-16.

"But it's made you 2?  That... then it can't have been because of my age... Why am I 16? I should be first..."

"Right. It seems to be some sort of order. A puzzle..." Legend hummed thoughtfully.
Their guessing and chatting continued until their brothers returned.

 

"Go on." Time said firmly giving Wind the disappointed dad look.

 

"I might have... cut down one of your dummies outside your house Twi.  Sorry."

 

'Did ya? Nice. I'll show you how to put it back up.' Twilight reassured before patting the dirt beside him for Wind to sit with him.

 

"We got a puzzle you three.  Wild give them the slate." Legend pushed wanting more information.
Wild held out his slate to Engine who happened to be the closest to him around the fire.

 

"What is..."
He lifted his eyebrow and turning the slate over in his hands.
"That's some fancy tech."

 

'Nothing... it doesn't respond to you?...'

 

"It doesn't?" Legend came over curiously taking it watching as it greeted himself and then handed it back to Eng.

 

"Is it suposah?"

 

"Yeah.  I think so..."

"Well... try the others. I’ve always said I'm not much of a hero."

"You are. Don't be stupid." Legend said matter-a-factly before offering it to Wars and then Wind. Neither got any reaction from the device.

 

"It's because of me."
Wind said after holding the bricked slate for a long moment.
The boy glanced up first at Time and then at Sky.
"Wars and Engine are after me... It's because I wasn't actually born a hero."

"Wasn't born a hero..." Time frowned down at him.
"What actually do you mean by that?..."

 

"There was no hero in my time. We talked about this. You left. Everyone. The Goddesses, The Fairies, spirits, monsters. Everyone told me I wasn't the hero. I was just a normal boy with nothing special about me.  They told me to go home. Sit and wait and accept what happened. But I Forced them to recognize me.  I helped the Sages. I collected the Triforce of Courage. I killed Ganon. I may not have been born with the hero’s spirit but I have it now."

"I see..." Time threw his arm around Wind just trying to comfort him.

 

Wind huffed and gave the slate back to Legend.
"That is interesting." Legend admitted thoughtfully.
"If you could do it... does that mean anyone with enough stupidity and drive could?"

 

"Hey!"

 

Legend snickered before roughing up the boy's hair.
"Let's just eat. Huh?  Then we'll go see where Twi grew up."

 

“Yes! What are we having?”

 

“Hyrule and Wild made fish.”

 

Wind gave them a worried look until he got his plate.

“Ahh! Sailor food! Nice! The acid is good for staying healthy on the sea.”

 

Wild hummed happily watching the group dig in and Hyrule’s proud little face. The curly haired man was almost bubbly watching the others eat what he prepared.

Legend pushed them all to go over the order once more.

Hyrule legend time four twilight sky and wild… It just didn’t make sense. By the time the meal was over Legend was pulling on his pink hair in frustration.

 

“Maybe Sun will have an answer.” Sky finally ended the conversation.

“Or that Dinkle woman. It won't help you fixating on this Leg.”

 

“Exactly. Let's all pick up and get ready to go.” Time agreed.

 

‘Wild...’ Twilight signed his hand after catching his arm. ‘I'm not sure how my family will react to you. How you look... I’m sorry...’

‘No don't be sorry.’ Wild signed back firmly. He took a moment to squeeze Twilight's hands in his.

‘Let's make a deal. I'll wait at your house. You tell the village about me. If they let me in, you'll have to promise to tell at least some of them about Wolfie. If they react badly to me none of us will bother you about it again.’

 

‘I'm willing to try... for you Wild.’

 

‘They raised you and you are so good. I'm sure they can understand.’ Wild signed before pulling his brother into a tight hug. Wolfie had helped him with so much. It was nice finally getting to return the favor.

Notes:

I hope you guys enjoyed this! Drop a comment down below if you have any guesses or thoughts about the order! Letting the others have their own profiles like on a computer is something new I've never seen before so even if it's a bit confusing I hope it made sense. :D

Chapter 35: Seeking

Twilight bit his lip when he pulled away from their fuzziest brother. Wild was warm and still smelled a bit like lemons from making lunch...

 

He sighed rubbing his red hair to reassure the Zonai. Somehow even with how easily distracted he could be, Wild always seemed to know when anyone was upset or stressed. It just wasn't fair and he knew they were right. If it wasn't fair for Wild then it wasn't fair to him.

 

Twilight made himself a promise right then that if they really couldn't accept Wild then... then maybe it was for the best. He would try not to think about what that meant for now though. Twilight pushed himself forward and took Epona’s lead and Wild sighed falling into step with Legend and Engie. That was good too.

The forest buzzed around them as the group made their way down the well worn path to Twilight’s home.

‘This is the only way into the village through the forest. Any other way is too dangerous for most people.’ Twilight turned around enough to explain with sign.

‘So normally I'm the first person to know if anyone is coming to trade at the village.’

A small clearing opened before them and Twilight slowly relaxed. He was home.

 

He could just see the training dummy Wind had knocked over and Epona automatically went to relax by her favorite grass patch by the house which had been carved directly into the side of an old tree when he had finally outgrown his adopted parents house all those years ago.

‘It’s not very big but I bet we could all squeeze in. We can stay here tonight.’

 

“Hey, we are just happy to be inside tonight.” Time assured squeezing Twilight’s shoulder.

It helped him find strength. Strength to do this.

 

‘Let’s split up. Wars... Wind and Hyrule. We’ll go talk to them. Everyone else can start setting up beds.’ Twilight finally decided. He was splitting up the team this way on purpose making sure Time would stay back with the others while also splitting up the two trouble makers. Aka Wild and Hyrule. The sweet youthful faces paired with War’s charms were just a plus. Perhaps with their help he could make his family understand...

 

Wild just sighed watching them head down into the little village below.

“Let’s explore inside Wild!” Wind shook his hand and excitedly climbing the ladder up into the tree house of sorts.

 

“Don’t break anything else!” Time called after them.

 

“It was just an accident! Let it go old man!” Wind called back.

Wild snickered as he and Wind entered the small home first.

Actually…

Wild just noticed the ladder up to a second and third story.

Wild climbed up there first to drop off his own sleeping bag at the highest point.

A small window overlooked the village down below and Wild could just see Twilight and Wars walking down the path to greet a much larger man.

He decided not to watch anymore. He didn’t want to worry about what they would say.

 

“Twi reads! Ha! Nerd!” Wind yelled from below and Wild scoffed sliding down the ladder to rejoin the boy.

 

‘Twi a nerd?’

 

“Absolutely! Even you do paperwork. It’s boringgg!”

Wild laughed taking note of the books but couldn’t read the titles on the spines. He was pretty sure Wind could. They had mentioned how similar Twilight’s and Wind’s written language was before...

 

‘Just wait. You’ll end up doing paperwork too!’ Wild signed back at him cheerfully. Honestly the tree home was growing on him. A big warm house made mostly of wood with lots of light, a warm kitchen. It was lovely.

 

“Wait! What’s this?” Wild just caught Wind heading down another ladder down into what looked like a basement. “It’s dark!!”

 

Wild pulls out his torch as he jumped down into the darkness. He curiously explored the storage boxes and took interest in the mirror propped up against the wall... Why would Twilight have a mirror down here in the darkness... He couldn't even see a light down here.

 

Wind inevitably became bored. They explored every inch of the house by the time the others entered, and they both helped set up the groups gear for bed tonight.

He had assumed that it wouldn't take Twilight very long to explain about what he looked like... He was growing worried now... Would he really not meet his mentor’s family? His friends?

Could Wild put on a brave face and send his brothers into the village and sit here alone?

Wild offered apples to Epona outside Twilight’s house hoping beyond hope that he was just being impatient.

Finally-finally They returned. Twilight’s grin warm and bright.

 

The rancher pulled him into a tight hug, grinning over him at the others. Wild let out a deep sigh of relief into Twilight’s cowl.

‘We can go in now! Even you Wild.’

 

“Great!!” Wind exclaimed. Jumping for joy off of Twilight’s front porch to join them.

“I can’t wait to meet your family!”

 

“Me as well.” Time assuredly patted Twilight’s shoulder and firmly nodded.

“I’m certain they can handle hearing the whole truth but let’s all allow Twi the chance to tell them himself.”

 

‘I will. I promise…’

 

“I want to see you accepted in your own home. Don’t make me wait too long.” Time grinned before taking the lead down onto the small village.

As expected, Wind and Hyrule were right after him.

 

‘Just stay with me Wild. At first. Please.’ Twilight asked and held up his hand for him to take.

Wild grinned up at him and accepted.

 

Wild kept his hood down as the chain slowly spilled out into the cozy town. The large man from before waited for them and Wild tried to look friendly offering a shy wave as he approached. His brothers hung around them on all sides.

 

“Link assures me You’ll all be no trouble. It has been some time since we received new visitors. Even longer since we have had to brave the field beyond. You'll have to forgive us if we seem skiddish... I’m unsure what we would have done without Link here.”

The large man scratched the back of his head before jumping.

“I didn't introduce myself! I am Mayor Bo. We don't have much here but our cheese and pumpkins are like no other!”

 

‘These are my brothers. This is Wild.’ Twilight introduced and Wild would have blushed if he looked hylian. As it was his fur frizzed up a bit and he nervously reached to fix his red hair as he pulled his hood down. He couldn't hide how he looked forever.

 

The mayor gasped but quickly composed himself.

“Wild hmm? Hopefully just a nickname ha-ha! Please ask the shop if you need anything. I'm sure the kids will soon be swarming you.” The mayor laughed heartily before nodding.

Wild nodded in returned and tugged Twilight towards the only shop he could see within the little village. He hoped to stock up on food his mentor would enjoy. Oh he wondered how the cheese compared to his own time!

The chubby woman inside was all smiles and giggles as soon as he dropped rupees onto the counter. Her cat was also easily bought with a bit of fish.

“Oh Link loves fish!”

 

Link? Wild turned to search his brothers face and Twilight turned away.

‘Link?’

 

“Oh yes! My wonderful daughter had a bit of a crush~ She named our cat a few years ago.” The woman giggled as Twilight’s face turned pink.

“Thankfully she's grown out of that so don't tease her!”

 

Wild assured the woman that he wouldn’t and after buying her whole stock the pair left only to run directly into a blonde woman holding a little girl in her arms.

“Link! There you are! She automatically handed over the sleepy girl who Twilight excitedly cuddled to his chest.

“You’ll have dinner with us right? I'm sorry I can't feed all of these men...”

 

‘No, don't worry. I’ll feed them. He should eat with you!’ Wild may not know who this woman was yet but he could already tell how close they were.

 

“Oh excuse me.” She laughed as she fixed Twilight’s dirty blond hair out of his face.

“My name is Uli. Link said your name is Wild?”

 

He could vaguely remember Twilight begging for her when he was sick...

‘We’ll make sure he eats dinner with you tonight. He should spend time with family!’

 

“My sweet boy. Colin and Rusl should be home from the forest soon too. Rusl has decided its time for him to properly learn to fight.”

 

Twilight bit his lip and passed the child back so he could sign.

‘Are they okay? Should I go find them?’

 

“No. Trust in Colin. I think he is ready too.” She smiled tucking her hair behind her round ear. “I better go start on dinner. Little Toya is ready for her nap too.”

 

His adopted mother smiled as Twilight cupped her cheeks and kissed her forehead.

‘I’ll see you soon.’

 

Apparently though it was named different things, everyone knows what the concept of hide and seek is. It was made even more difficult playing out in a forest.

Wild whistled with his hands trying to control his laughter.

Twilight had taught Hyrule and Wild how to do so and the group had agreed that some of them, such as Hyrule Wind and Wild were too good at hiding and everyone had to whistle as loud as they could every few minutes.

 

Dinkle hummed from her seat up in the tree tops watching her heroes laugh and run around moving hiding locations quickly before the seeker could find them.

The goddess had taken them away from under her nose for a reason… and Dinkle didn’t appreciate that she didn’t at least know /why/...

 

Wild entered Twilight’s home and promptly laid down on the floor once he was done playing. Legend was quick to curl up by the fire near his foot.

He could just hear Time still calling for Twilight Wind and Warriors to come inside but couldn’t be bothered to worry.

Four had left them early on in their game claiming to have a migraine and still hadn’t returned... or at least he didn't think he had...

He did wonder where the little man had run off too but not enough to follow Hyrule in his search…

 

“Sky you can’t just- and he fell asleep.”

Legend groaned watching Sky pass out as soon as his head hit his pillow. The vet sighed tossing a blanket over his shoulders.

 

Wild looked up from his cooking pot and glanced over at Engineer who was gently running his hand through Sky’s straw colored hair.

“I haven’t had fun like that in… probably a year. You guys just don’t know when to quit.”

 

“Yeah seriously my knees are killing me.” Legend complained rubbing some medicine into his knees with a few more grumbles...

 

Four pushed on alone deeper and deeper into the woods. He wasn’t looking for anything in particular; instead Four was just trying to get as much distance as possible between him and his brothers.

 

“I just want to talk! Dinkle!”

 

“No need to shout.”

 

Four didn’t bother to jump or turn around.

“I saw you watching us.”

 

“Yes, playing that child’s game. What of it? I watch you more often then not. I’m just not hiding it anymore.”

 

“I wanted to ask you something.” Slowly Four turned, expression serious as he searched her own. His purple eyes were hard and curious. “Something I think I already know but I have to ask… I had a Shadow once. One that was created in my image to slow me down with chaos and destruction…”

 

“So I’ve read. If you are asking if that’s me?...” She trailed off wanting him to admit it.

 

“I am. I’m asking.”

 

Dinkle looked him up and down slowly taking her time to answer.

“…No. My first memories are from Time. I don’t believe I am your shadow… however…”

Dinkle slowly approached holding her hands out. “Hold still. I won’t hurt you. I only want to feel.”

 

Four nodded and accepted her touch. She was colder then him, skin ashen and red glowing eyes curious and flighty searching him.

After some time, Dinkle closed her eyes.

Four shivered. He could feel something tingling at his senses... magic. A dark twisting thing reaching for him, feeling at what felt like his very soul. After another moment Dinkle knelt down touching Four’s shadow with her clawed hand.

 

“I won’t make any promises but… I’ll do some research. For now just focus on the team.”

 

“A-are you saying…”

 

“I feel something. Something dark and alive. I make no promises.”

 

Four blinked and the shadowy woman who had just knelt beside him was gone…

A faint ringing echoed through the forest leaving him alone with only his thoughts and his shadow…

Notes:

I was dealing with the sad guys. Sorry this was late! I love you all thanks for reading and if you have any thought go ahead and drop them in the comments! I love to hear them!

Chapter 36: The Wolf

Twilight took a deep breath before pushing open the front door of his childhood home.

Rusl had taken over stirring something that smelt of potato and rich cheese over the fire while Uli cared for the baby. Colin- dear Colin ran to his side and Twilight leaned down to hug him tightly.

 

“I fought with father today!”

The boy grinned up at him. He was looking more and more like Rusl by the day… Hylia… Soon Colin would be taller than him.

 

‘I’m proud of you. You came home safely.’ Twilight signed and sat at the table they had made together.

 

“T-thanks!”

 

“You look like you have allot on your mind Link.” Rusl offered him a moment and the hero of twilight slowly nodded.

 

‘I made the others a promise.’

 

“That sounds important…” Colin sat beside him and Twilight’s heart broke as he took in his earnest heart shaped face.

 

‘I told you kids about that wolf that helped me.’

Colin glanced at his parents before nodding.

 

“What wolf Link?...” Rusl asked with a thoughtful frown. Rusl decided to pull the food off the fire to join Twilight at the table.

 

At Twilight’s nod Colin explained for him.

“Link told us kids about how a wolf helped him save us! About how the wolf sniffed out our things and got him to us fast! That we didn’t have to be afraid if we saw the wolf again. But just the one wolf with that pattern on its forehead.” Colin nodded up at Twilight and the rancher blushed rubbing at his own mark.

 

‘Exactly. You saw him allot in Kakariko too.’

 

“Yeah! Every other day it seemed it’d just appear at the spring, and we all knew you’d be there soon.”

He hadn’t exactly realized the kids had noticed how often that happened…

“That’s why we understood. When you told us about the wolf… but why do you still look… sad…”

 

Twilight shifted in his seat, looking away from them as he calmed his racing heart.

“There was a wolf here… after the kids were taken. I’ll admit that was a terrible time. I was badly hurt. My wife heavily pregnant and my son… my youngest son…” Twilight could see that pain in his father’s eyes as he sat in that emotional moment of time.

“I’m afraid I struck him. I’m sorry if that wolf was yours Link. I panicked and I didn’t know what took my boys. You and Colin both gone…”

Goddess help him. How was he supposed to tell Rusl-

 

“Link.” Uli slowly stood laying their sister in her crib.

“Link this might sound silly… but are you the wolf?”

All three of them stared at her before Rusl and Colin jerked back around to stare at him.

 

“Oh-Oh no! It is true, isn’t it? I cut you! I-“ Rusl jumped to his feet almost stumbling as he pulled Twilight’s shirt up and over his head.

 

‘Rusl- Rusl!’ Twilight struggled against it but finally Rusl forced him to show off the scar across his shoulder the older man had put on him.

 

“I cut you and all you wanted was a sword. A sword and shield.”

His father fell to his knees beside him clutching at Twilight’s shirt in his lap.

“Forgive me Link. I’m… so sorry.”

Twilight shook his head roughly hugging the man and signing no into his shoulder over and over.

 

When they finally parted Twilight forced himself to shakily sign what he wished he could say aloud.

‘I’m glad you protected mom. I’m glad. I’m not mad at all. I promise.’

 

“But you are hurt. You must be hurting inside, or you’d have told us sooner. It’s… it’s okay to hurt. You saw me when I was young. How much it cost me to get us here safely. It’s okay to hurt.”

 

Twilight shivered and nodded remembering the long nights where Rusl couldn’t sleep. Kept having nightmares and fighting in his sleep. He remembered how Uli had to carefully wake their father. How he had to comfort Colin when he was really young. Rusl still struggled with it but not like he used too. He doubted Colin even remembered those days.

 

‘I love you all. You are my family.’

 

“Nothing will change that. Not even… whatever wolf thing you got going on.”

Twilight shakily laughed.

 

“Is that why you came home with that face tattoo? I yelled at you so much…”

Twilight laughed even harder, forehead falling against Rusl’s shoulder in relief.

 

‘It’s magic. It just happened I didn’t mean too. I didn’t do it.’

 

“Well then. I’m sorry too.” She gently took his next hug shooing Rusl to dish up dinner and reclaiming Twilight’s shirt for him to put it back on.

“There you go. Perhaps you’ll show us soon...”

 

‘Are you sure? I don’t want to scare you.’ Twilight worried.

“Link I will remind you. Those were some of the worst days we’ve ever experienced.” Uli reminded him.

“It will be different this time. If you give us a chance.” Twilight slowly nodded and accepted the potato soup passed across the table

That was until he realized Colin hadn’t said anything. At his worried expression though the boy just smiled.

 

“Turning into a wolf sounds cool. Is that how you saved us?”

 

‘Yes. Only I could save you because of wolf. It allowed me to walk through dark magic.’

 

“Could I do it? Turn into a wolf?”

Twilight hesitated thinking on that.

 

‘It’s possible… but unlikely. You were lost in the darkness. You said it felt like a nightmare that wouldn’t end. That’s when I was a wolf.’

 

“Still cool… oh that fire! You did that!”

Colin grinned excitedly and accepted his own bowl to eat rapidly. Twilight would explain it all. Or at least most of it. Right after he ate.

 

Hyrule managed to find Four and Wild purred as everyone -minus Twilight- relaxed by the fire... Even if Four looked terribly absorbed in his thoughts... Perhaps something was bothering the smallest hero.

Time found one of Twilight’s books, one he could apparently read, while Wild cooked them a lovely dinner. With a real kitchen he could manage another well-rounded meal.

Goat sausage and cheesy smashed potatoes with some sweet honey milk to wash it down. He would save the pumpkin experiments until later when Twilight could enjoy it.

He would make sure his brothers enjoyed it!

 

"Wild?"  Time asked after the potatoes were started. He let his book rest in his lap.
Wild tilted his head at the older man curious.

"I just wondered if you knew you were humming. It's not bad."
Wild nodded sitting down to relax a bit away from the fire now that the meal was cooking.
"You know magic can be cast with song, right?  Both Legend and I can do so."

Wild turned his gaze to Legend who nodded in agreement.
"You are definitely casting magic on our food.  I didn't really notice at first but Hyrule mentioned it once."

 

"Wait! Wild has magic? We're eating magic??"  Wind exclaimed jumping up to look into Wild’s cooking pot. “Grandma can do that too! I don't think I'd have gotten very far without her soup!”

 

"Don't burn yourself you heathen." Warriors teased the boy.

 

"I’m certain." Time nodded calmly pulling Wind down and into his lap.
"I think between the two of us we could teach you how to make the effect stronger."

 

'Really??'  Wild practically tripped over Wars just to get to Time’s side.

 

"Now don't think you will improve over night.  But some music theory should help just to start.  You've got some rather... wild magic.  I'm not really sure how you're doing that just by humming. Especially on accident.”

Wild shrugged thoughtfully.

‘I thought it was just because of my slate. I’ve always done it.’

 

“But your food still seemed to have healing effects before you got that thing.” Legend denied.

“Right Rulie?”

Hyrule nodded his head resting on Legend’s shoulder.

“See? I think you have a lot of magic, actually. It’s just more subtle then we are used too.”

 

“Speaking of, Wild I'd like to go over supplies.” Wars hummed from his seat. “We need to spread the supplies, so everyone has enough. I want all of us to have some items in your slate too. Maybe we could go get those fairies before we leave. Twilight mentioned that Dusk wanted to meet you too... we need to talk to Twilight about that when he returns.”

 

“Sure! After Dinner.” Wild agreed. He wondered though what Dusk was like...

Notes:

Still dealing with some stuff. I let myself have another weekend off writing because it was my bday~ As always take care of yourselves my loves. Drop a comment its amazing to hear from you!

Chapter 37: Dusk

The horse’s hooves trample down the paved road, Wild’s forearm wrapped tight around Twilight’s waist with his bow notched and ready to shoot. Twilight had promised they would be back to Ordon before nightfall as Hyrule had warned them a portal would be coming. It was expected too. After all their time here couldn’t last. Wild was excited to see a real dungeon!

 

He only had to loose a few arrows into Monsters before Twilight pulled Epona to a stop outside the castle town.

 

‘How do you want to do this?’

Wild hummed inspecting the outer wall. He was certain he could climb it.

 

‘I’ll follow you from the roof. I can help you up.’

 

Twilight slowly nodded.

‘Just don't get caught. I won't be able to help you right away if they spot you.’

 

Wild nodded offered a cheerful grin at his brother before they separated.

It was a close one. Wild almost got caught several times but only because he had to keep looking over the roof tops to see where Twilight was headed.

Twilight waved him to come down by what looked like a seedy bar. The pair snuck into the rafters of the bar, and then back into a tunnel which Twilight promised would lead them deep into the castle.

It was incredible. Wild couldn't help but feel like this was just like the secret tunnel between his own castle and Lookout Landing!

 

Wild jumped the many ledges, climbing up the walls before Wolfie so he could catch his scruff and pull him up the rest of the way. He was very used to this. Wolfie? Twilight was not. It took him quite a while to convince the wolf he would never drop him and even if he did, he had a paraglider. He would catch him!

Finally, the pair scrambled up into the tallest tower and back down onto lush red carpets.

Wolfie stopped just outside the huge double doors at the top and quietly whined, nails leaving marks in the wood.

“Link?...”

A soft voice called and Wild backed up realizing this was it.

 

Nervously he fixed his hood trying to make sure he looked as small and nonthreatening as possible.

 

The door opened silently, gliding on its well-maintained hinges and a woman smiled down at Wolfie and then at Wild.

“Finally. Come in.”

Wild wasn’t sure if he could see any of Flora in this woman. He honestly felt intimidated by her the same way he had Warriors. Too pretty. Too perfect.

He was certain Flora would feel the same.

She wore a soft white night gown, her blonde hair braided across the top of her head in a protective style and had the most soulful grey eyes Wild had ever seen. They honestly reminded him of Wolfies. Tired but endlessly hopeful for a kind hand, a better world.

“Wild. I’m glad Twilight took my… request seriously.”

 

Beside them Wolfie shook himself twisting with the twill magic to become human once more.

Twilight pushed himself back up to his feet and laughed as he signed his response.

‘You mean threat.’

 

“I would never dream to threaten my hero.” Dusk offered a small playful smirk to Wild.

“I’m so glad to meet you, Wild.”

 

‘There’s been some changes since my last letter.’ Twilight warned her before resting his hand on Wild’s shoulder to reassure his brother.

 

Slowly Wild pulled his hood down with shaking hands, allowing the Princess to take in his Zonai form.

She didn’t so much as gasp, instead this Zelda smiled at him.

“You are beautiful, Wild. I’m grateful you choose to trust me and come and visit.”

Wild glanced up at Twilight before pulling his cloak tighter around himself to protect his dignity. It was easy to pull the aura away from himself.

He was getting better at it with practice and the twist of pain didn’t hit as hard as it once had as Hyrule had given him medication Wild hadn't recognized. He would have to get some more and learn about it if it worked this well.

“Oh!”

Shakily he held out the armor piece to her.

“Oh… oh I see. May I?...”

Dusk carefully lifted the Hero’s Aspect inspecting it closely.

“Incredible work. You should be proud. It definitely has some Twill magic within it but it's mixed with other magic… Light magic too. So interesting.”

Ah. There was Flora. This Zelda just liked magic instead of technology in this time.

Wild grinned up at her feeling suddenly comfortable despite how little he wore beneath his cloak.

 

She continued to mutter about magic as Wild took in the round stone room.  It was warm, a fire popping just to the left from the fresh wood that had just been added for the night.  A huge bed fit for a Queen tucked just behind them by the door with red drapes and blanket. A vanity pushed up against a far wall and Wild just knew this tower had the most incredible view... Those big stain glass windows were cracked open, allowing for fresh air. Wild just wasn't sure where all of her outfits must be. She must have so many- Oh Wild wished he could explore...
Wild's attention fell back on Twilight who just waited patiently for Dusk to finish with a fond expression on his face.
"I apologize.  Here."  Dusk shook herself after several minutes of study finally returning the armor to Wild.
He shifted to wrap the belt back around himself and sighed in relief as the dull full body ache finally disappeared.
"Let me call for some tea... Link."
Dusk turned abruptly, voice low with warning and snapping both heroes to attention.
"Were we expecting visitors?... I can sense something dark outside my window."
Twilight slowly shook his head but slowly responded.
'The shadow has been following us.  We've decided she might not be evil.'

 

"... Then let us see what it wants and make a decision."
Twilight on guard did as told. He approached the window and pushing it further open while Wild made sure to guard Dusk.

 

Twilight’s shoulders relaxed and he frowned down at someone outside the window.
'Stop scaring us.  Get in here.'

 

"Stop being so easily spooked.  I wasn't exactly hiding my presence."
The white haired woman flipped into the window and promptly dropped into a playful bow to Zelda.
"I swear I only wish to talk.  Negotiate."

 

Dusk only glanced to Twilight before answering.
"Very well.  What do you want."

 

"I think~ The better question is what do you want. Twilight hasn't gotten a chance to explain, has he?... This was why I was waiting outside."
Dinkle waved at them and sighed dramatically.
"I'll make this simple. I can take you both to her.  It would be temporary.  Just a few days.  I can do it whenever I wish."

 

Zelda gasped and Twilight came to her side and nodded his agreement.
"And what exactly do you want?"

 

Dinkle hummed twirling her braid around her finger again thoughtfully like she didn't already have an answer.

"First from Twilight, I want to use his shadow whenever I wish.  It's been changed enough to actually feel comfortable even with his hero’s spirit.  Second..."  Dinkle pulled out a locked book offering it to Dusk.
"I want you to tell Midna she needs to work on this research.  If you fail to convince her, two timelines... three timelines? Perhaps all of them... will collapse into chaos."

 

Dusk accepted the book, her sharp grey eyes looking over the lock before turning to Twilight and Wild.

“Very well… I can only speak for myself though. What do you think Link?”

 

He sighed through his nose before nodding.

‘Midna can decide if it’s dangerous or not.’

 

“Very well then. It’s decided.”

Dinkle giggled happily walking between them.

“It’s decided then. When Twilight shares his story, I’ll steal you both away.”

Her foot hit the floor where Twilight’s shadow rested and suddenly she was gone in a twist of darkness and Twilight shivered despite the warm room.

 

‘Are you okay?’ Wild worried.

 

‘Fine. Just feels weird.’

 

“Feels weird?”

 

‘Different than Midna. She was more like… tickling. Teasing. This just feels like weight.’

 

“Are you sure about this?”

 

‘If it means we can see her together? Yeah.’ Twilight reassured Zelda with a smile.

‘How about that tea? I think I need it.’

Notes:

Even more deals huh Dinkle. Ah well. Take care of yourselves dear readers! I'd love to hear from you so drop a comment down below~

Chapter 38: Teaser

Summary:

Teaser for the the second act! Please subscribe to the series for more!

The portal came before Twilight and Wild returned. Time hesitated turning to Rusl who had joined him and Warriors some time ago while they waited outside of Ordon.

“I’m sorry. It’s likely they have their own portal to go through. I have no reason to believe they aren’t already waiting for us on the other side.

“Very well. Could you give this to Link.” Rusl pulled out a letter from inside his shirt.

Time couldn’t help but think about how it had been over the man’s heart. Perhaps this was where Twilight got his sentimental values…

 

“Of course. I’m certain Link will be home soon.”

 

“We will be waiting. Our boy will always have a home here. Don’t you let him forget that.”

Notes:

Please click through for more and consider subscribing to the series so you don't miss anything! Love you all!

Series this work belongs to:

• Part 1 of AU Aspects