For every memory we can't face - for every name thats been erased

by BeeCat

Summary:

The thing about secrets that Red would say he hates the most is the fact that lying and deflecting is a key component in keeping them. Red would also say that he respects his brother's privacy, so he understands why they kept Fours secrets, but that didn't change the fact that Red hates lying.

So Red had no choice but to watch as his brothers lie, lie, lie and hope that they wouldn't end up in “their” Hyrule, because no matter what his brothers say, it's hard to scheme and lie when Four wouldn't be able to hide the fact that he knew almost nothing about his time, and his time knew almost nothing about him.
---
AKA I take the canonical LOZ timeline a little too seriously and Four is the Link from both Four Swords and Four Swords Adventures, the thousands of years separating them and all.

Chapter 1: A Nightmare and Thereafter

It was dark. That was the only thing Link could see, the only thing he could feel. There was no blinking starlight, or flickering firelight, no animal calls or chirping insects. It was nothing, and he was a part of the nothingness.

 

The realization scared him more than any monster or demon. 

 

He felt himself panic, but he couldn't hear his heart beat. He couldn't breathe, he couldn't move, he had no body and he could only feel. He could only feel his panic, his rage and loneliness, he felt confused, he felt them all at once in a seemingly never ending cycle but he could do nothing.

 

Link could do nothing. He could do nothing as the too many feelings became agony and he shattered. 

 

He bled colors through the cracks on his nonexistent skin, a kaleidoscope of green, blue, red, violet swirling and swirling. Panic, rage, loneliness, confusion, panic, rage, loneliness, confusion - over and over again until the colorful blood was all he could see. 

 

But the colors attracted something evil, and Link forgot there was evil in this nothingness. It clawed at his colorful shield, tearing, pulling, consuming a part of him, making shadows in his soul. He was losing, and the four colors needed to…

 

The Four… Needed to…

Wake up…

 

Wake up!

 

---

 

“Four, wake up!” 

 

Something grabbed his shoulders and he heaved a breath as he felt his body shoot up, his hand moving to his sword. It was dark, to dark, he had to -

 

A hand grabbed his own shaky one, stopping him from grabbing the sword. A voice filled his ears, saying something. Four couldn’t understand it, so focused on the feeling of the other hand in his. He felt his heart beat ( to fast) , the painful gasps of air filling his lungs. He realized there was a fire nearby, there were stars twinkling above him. (It wasn't the same darkness). 

 

“C’mon smithy, breathe with me,”

 

He listened, taking a quivering breath in.

 

“Alright, breathe out.”

 

He felt his lungs deflate. In, and out, in, and out.

 

“Good, okay. You with me, kid?” The voice stated, (Warriors), some part of him recognized. He turned to the captain, whose face was painted with worry, and although there were parts of him who tried to resist, Four all but collapsed into the other's chest.

 

A small, shaky sob wracked his body when he felt the others arms curl around him. He could physically feel himself being lowered onto the ground as the older rubbed his back, and the sensation of realizing he had a body made him heave another sob. 

 

“It's alright bud, you’re okay,”

 

They sat like that for a while, as Four calmed down and Warriors whispered sweet nonsense. Eventually Four pulled away, not looking at the captain. A small blush painted his cheeks as he rubbed his eyes. “M’ sorry.”

 

Warriors shook his head, “Don't be, it happens.” 

 

Four let out a small wet laugh in response. He took a deep breath in as he turned to look at the other again, a half hearted glare. “Also, I'm not a kid.”

 

A snort. “Sorry, sorry,”

 

“And you better remember it,” Four mumbled in response, eliciting an eye roll. At the pause, Four turned to look at the dying embers of the fire, pulling his knees to his chest as he wrapped his arms around himself. He listened to the woods around him, (that was an owl hoot!), listened to the camp of heroes quietly snoring, (Time’s snores aren’t quiet), and he just relished in being real. 

 

(It wasn't the same darkness). 

 

Warriors shifted by him, moving to stand up. Four glanced up at him, watching as the captain stretched his arms and gave a sigh. He turned to look down at the younger, tilting his head ever so slightly. “So…”

 

“So?”

 

“So do you need anything?” And Four heard the quiet statement in there. 

 

We should talk about it, a red thought burned in his chest. No, a strong blue wave smothered the fire. Not right now, we’ll be fine, a green breeze stated. We can handle it ourselves, we have for as long as we remember, the violet earth reasoned. The small fire couldn't help but waver, relinquishing to the other elements. Okay.

 

“Four?” Warriors asked, setting his hand on his shoulder. Four shook his head, shoving Wars' hand off, shifting  away from the others' reach. He looked away from the crestfallen expression.

 

“Sorry, I…” He buried his head deeper into his arms, “I don't think I can right now.” 

 

“Right. Okay. But, uh, whenever you're ready I’ll listen, alright?” 

 

Four did not respond. 

 

After a moment of awkward silence, Warriors let out a sigh. “Well, it's the end of my watch. It's Wild’s turn next, so…”

 

“I’ll go to bed soon.” Four said, looking up at the captain. He gave a small smile. “And… Thanks, Wars. Good night.” 

 

“Good night, smithy.” Warriors responded, and the smile he gave didn't quite reach his eyes.

 

Four lied down when the captain moved away, shifting his blanket up towards his chin. He listened to the woods and camp again, the insects were still chirping and the not so quiet snores still resonated. He heard Wild mummer something to Warriors, as the captain moved to his own bed roll. He closed his eyes, (it wasn't the same darkness), and tried to slip back into sleep. 

 

He knew that it was ultimately a fruitless effort, though. 

 

---

 

Warriors felt like an idiot. 

 

He picked at his eggs, not moving to eat any. The chatter of the others filled the air, but he felt no need to join. Four was in a discussion with Wind, both talking animatedly about hammers or something. The dark bruises under the smith's eyes and the hunched shoulders was obvious to the captain.

 

Setting the plate down, he moved to stand. Legend threw a glance at him, his eyebrow quirked, and Warriors gave him an easy smile. “Just need to walk around for a bit, stretch my muscles.” 

 

The vet hummed, and turned back towards Hyrule, leaving the scarfed hero be. All of them knew that “taking a walk” meant “I need to think”, and honestly that's what Warriors truly needed. So he set off, slinging his sword and pack over his shoulders and started wandering the forest around the camp, making sure he could still hear the others. 

 

After a bit, he let his mind wander with him. 

 

Honestly, Four was an enigma to Warriors. Although he never told any of the heroes (well, besides Time, it was hard not to tell Time), he knew a bit from almost all of their own personal history. Sure, they were all legends, and legends had their stories told, but it was different to read about them and actually meet and fight with people who knew the heroes personally. Or the hero themselves, he mused, thinking about two kids who were determined to mess with him throughout his whole adventure. 

 

But almost isn't all , and Four was a hero he knew nothing about. Warriors never learned of the Four Sword, he never even heard of it before meeting the hero himself. None of his companions in the war ever talked about it either. It didn't help that they had yet to go to the smithy’s Hyrule, and the hero himself was very tight lipped about his past, never confiding in anyone as far as he was aware. 

 

Warriors couldn't help but wonder if any of them truly knew Four, and the thought of that unsettled him. 

 

He sighed, pausing to sit at an upturned log as he brushed his hand through his hair. Goddesses, what was he doing? They’ve been traveling together for months now, he trusts them in battle and they’re all determined to stop… Whatever they were facing. Was last night really all that it took to shake his confidence? He never heard of Hyrule or Wild before this, either, but… 

But Hyrule and Wild had Legend and Twilight. He’s been to both of the heroes' time, he's seen how their journeys affected the land and the people in it. He knew without a shadow of a doubt that they were heroes, through and through. He couldn't have that certainty with Four. 

 

And Warriors missed his chance to clear that uncertainty, he missed the chance to be the one to know Four. 

 

“Fuck,” he mumbled, “I really am an idiot.”

Chapter 2: Cold beginnings

Summary:

A gift, a swim, and the inevitability.

There was a portal not too long after Warriors came back to camp, to the surprise of no one.

 

“Honestly,” Legend stated after he finished packing his bed roll, “whatever time of Hyrule this place is, it was getting boring.” 

 

“For real! It was just a bunch of woods with almost no monsters,” Wind sighed exaggeratedly, “we better end up in one of our times, at least we’ll have something to do.” 

 

“There's always something to do, young one,” Time stated, smirking (never a good sign), “ You could always help break down camp faster, for example.” 

 

Wind scoffed, but a smile tugged his lips. “Not that bored yet. I did all my jobs, not my fault your all slow and old,”  And almost all of them laughed with him, keeping the light conversation in spite of dark magic just a few feet away. 

 

Four sighed as he finished stuffing everything in his bag (for the love of Hylia fold it nicely-) and he walked away from the conversation, standing closer to the dark swirling mass. Its magic made the hairs stand up on the back of his neck, and he couldn't help the dread that settled in his chest. 

 

(Do you think it'll be this time? It better not. When we left everything was peaceful, it should remain that way.) 

 

(Maybe we should tell them?) 

 

“Not unless it's necessary,” the smithy whispered to himself, and his red heart ached.

 

“Well, look who's ready to get going,” Four jumped at the voice, turning to look up at the offending culprit, Wild, who held an easy smile. “I know how you feel. The others can be slow when they want to, huh?” 

 

Four gave a non committal hum. “They can be, I suppose.” 

 

A pause. Wilds smile fell into a more awkward grimace as they grabbed their Sheikah Slate from their hip. “Well, uh, I heard you and Warriors talk a bit last night-” Four stiffened, and Wild quickly added -  “I don’t need to know what about! I just figured, well, maybe you would like this?” 

 

They tapped something on their screen, and a bottle of green liquid appeared. Hooking their slate, the champion held out the bottle with both their hands, form rigid. “It's an energizing elixir, I made it last night. It helps a little with your stamina, and I find it a blessing after a rough sleep personally.” 

 

Four couldn’t help but smile, and he took the bottle from the outstretched hands. Wild visibly relaxed at that. “Thanks, champion. I appreciate it - you really didn't have to.” 

 

Wild rubbed the back of their head. “Think of it as a small repayment for the sword, yeah?” 

 

The smithy rolled his eyes as he stashed the potion away. “You really don't have to repay me for that,” and he paused. Giving a smirk, he lightly punched the other's arm, “Besides, that was three months ago, you’re a bit late aren’t you?” 

 

Wild’s smile returned, raising their hands in mock surrender. “I can take the elixir back if you don’t accept payments then!” 

 

“Nope,” Four said, popping the p, “it’s mine now.” 

 

At Wilds laugh, Four felt a bit of tension drain out of him. (We can trust them. It’s not about that.) 

 

“Does everyone have everything?” Time’s voice rang out as they all gathered closer to the portal. “You’ll never see it again if you don't.” 

 

“Yeah, yeah, we know the drill! It’s not our first time,” Wind said as he bounced up and down. “C’mon, I wanna see what's on the other side!” 

 

Warriors’ huffed, settling the sailor with a hand on his shoulder, “Be prepared though, there could be anything waiting for us.” 

 

“I’m always prepared,” Wind said, puffing his chest. Hyrule giggled at that as they came to stand by the youngest side, and although more subtle at it, they seemed just as antsy. ( How can they do it?) 

 

And so with light hearts, the hero’s entered the dark portal -

- and immediately fell into a cold lake. 

 

Four coughed when he breached, with Twilight and Legend already at the surface, who wasn't in much better shape. Sky wasn’t too far behind him. There were walls surrounding them, and a waterfall about two miles out. (Wait, is this-?)

 

“Guys!” Wind called out, swimming towards them with Wild in tow. Warriors popped his head up a few feet from the main group, his armor gone. Time appeared in much the same state beside him. “We couldn’t find a beach or outcrop, but there's some spots here that are shallow enough to stand on!”

 

“Wait! Hyrule!” Legend called out, panic flashing across his face, “Does anyone have eyes on Hyrule?!” 

 

Twilight already dived back under before Legend finished, followed quickly by the vet himself and Wind. Wild was about to join before a scaly, blue head popped out right in front of him, its singular eye filled with murder.

 

(That's-) “Zora! Wild, dive!” Four shouted. Wild listened immediately, barely missing the beast's fireball. A few more of its friends surfaced, separating Warriors and Time from the smithy and Sky. The Zora who tried to attack the champion quickly turned its gaze to Four, a fireball already forming in its mouth. (Fuck! Move move move!) 

 

Following his own advice, Four dived, feeling the water above him warm as the fireball grazed the surface. Someone was shouting, but the voice was too muffled. He moved to swim back up, but before he could breach, his right leg erupted in pain as claws dug into his calf, and the monster started to drag him down. The smithy couldn't help but open his mouth in panic, immediately regretting it as water filled his lungs. He turned to look at the Zora who had him and haphazardly kicked at its arm, but the beast seemed unaffected. His vision began to fade as his lungs burned , and a violet panicked thought informed him he didn’t have much time. His kicks slowed down. (Is this how we die?)

 

Something tackled the monster, making long claw marks on his leg, but letting go nonetheless. Weakly, Four started to swim what he hoped was up. An arm wrapped around his midsection, and Four tried to shove it off, but his strength wavered as his vision completely faded. A single blue thought stuck with him.

 

(What a lame way to go…) 

 

---

 

Twilight heaved Four to the surface, gasping for air as a fireball almost toasted the rancher. “Captain!”

 

Warriors yelled from across the lake, “Twi! Swim towards us, it's shallow here!” 

 

The rancher wouldn’t call himself the best swimmer, but despite his own exhaustion and the Zora’s around, he swam as fast as he could to the shallows. Once there, Warriors grabbed Four from his arms, bringing him more towards the middle where a similarly drowned Hyrule was hacking their lungs out and an anxious Legend hovered over them. Wild and Time had their bows drawn to shoot at any Zora who was visible, with Sky and Wind using their shields to block any fireball shot at them.  

 

Twilight followed the others' lead, grabbing his own crossbow to help thin out the monsters, which at this point were only a handful of particularly stubborn ones. He looked towards the middle when he heard a gasp, quickly followed by some hacking, and he saw Four throwing up some water. The rancher winced at that. "What-" a cough, "are we-?"

 

"Breathe, smithy, we're fine," Warriors said, and Twilight turned his focus back to the monsters around them.

 

They sat like that for a few minutes, the disgruntled hero’s quickly taking out the rest of the Zora as Hyrule and Four recovered. When Twilight shot the last monster, they all turned inward as they watched Warriors take care of the wound on the smithy’s leg. Twilight felt his exhaustion starting to settle in, and judging on how Sky and Wind sat down despite the water, he could tell he wasn't the only one. 

 

“Well,” Wild sighed as they ringed out their tunic. “That fucking sucked.” 

 

“Language,” Twilight half halfheartedly grumbled, which Wild rolled their eyes at.

 

Wind groaned in agreement, moving to lie down covering his eyes with his arm. 

 

“Do we have any ideas on how to get out of here?” Sky asked, copying Wind. "The sun looks like its going to set soon, and it'll be to cold to stay in water over night."

 

No one responded for a bit. Twilight was about to mention maybe trying to climb the walls, until Four shifted, a grimace on his face. “I do,” he said, and he sighed, pausing for a moment. “We’re in... My Lake Hylia. There's three levels to it, connected by waterfalls. We're at the highest point, there's no ladders or anything on this level. But-” and here he gave a quiet laugh, “there's some ways out. Not very good options, though."

 

Twilight sighed at that. "Its never easy, is it?"

 

Fours made a sympathetic noise. "No, its not." He slicked back his sopping wet bangs, and he continued when no one else said anything. “There’s two ways. We either go through a flooded cave, or,” and the smithy pointed towards the horizon, where a waterfall bubbled over the cliff about two miles away. “We go down that.” 

Notes:

Man, that new LU update huh? I swear it was coincidence that this was one of the Four and Wild chapter, it was planned that way but hey it works out.

I'm kinda doing a weird mishmash of the Four Sword Manga and game here, since the manga has more story but the game has a more set world map. So their in the first level of FSA, I felt it fitting to put them here in the worst spot to be in. Also I don't think its talked enough on how multiple Links just casually fall down waterfalls in their games, but hey they have the courage, not the wisdom.

This chapter had multiple iterations of it, I kinda struggled setting up going to Fours time. I feel bad doing two essentially set up chapters, but the real meat of the story is kicking in. I felt the need to try a fighting scene, I'm not sure how successful it was but let me know if you enjoyed it or not!

Thank you for reading, I hope you have a good day or night!

Chapter 3: Never, never mind your bleeding heart

Summary:

Wind and Legend where asked to fall first, which leads to discussions about being a hero. The colors, finally finding a moment to be alone, lead their own discussion. One of them goes better than the other.

“So, lets go over this one more time,” Warriors said, earning a groan from Legend who he promptly ignored, to the vets disdain. “Wind and Legend are going to use the smithy’s and his own roc cape’s to fall first, aiming to land on solid earth to make sure we have backup in case something goes horribly wrong,”

 

Wind fidgeted with the cape in his hands before stuffing it in his pack, keeping it dry. “And you're sure I don't need to do anything to activate it?” 

 

“Yup,” Four said, “plus, you're both a better swimmer and with my injury,” he said, waving his hand to the bandaged leg, “I’m no help in the water.”

 

“I still can't believe we have no red potions,” Wind mumbled. 

 

Warriors continued, once again ignoring the complaint. “Hyrule, Four, and I will be tied on a raft that the traveler apparently just carries with them,” Hyrule smirked at that, openly enjoying everyone's confusion on how they can fit a raft in their pack, “with Winds and Wilds deku leaf and paraglider to hopefully slow our descent down enough to not nose dive immediately and risk capsizing,” 

 

“Which leaves Twilight, Sky, Wild, and I to fall with our own items last, since we’re most at risk to have something go wrong,” Time said, as he finished putting on an old blue tunic. 

 

“At least we can't drown, Time,” Twilight said, adjusting his own Zora armor, which Legend still thinks looks frankly ridiculous, as the rancher glanced a not so subtle look of concern at Sky. “Are you both sure that you’ll be fine?” 

 

“You worry too much Twi,” the champion stated, smiling a toothy grin as he flexed his arm in front of him. His outfit was somehow even more ridiculous than the ranchers, and Legend couldn't help but laugh at the sight. “This armor will keep me safe,” 

 

Sky gave his own little laugh as he waved his hand noncommittally towards the rancher. “I’ll be fine! My sailcloth might not be able to glide, but it's trustworthy, and I’ll make it out of the water. I promise I will.” 

 

Twilight sighed, but didn’t say anything else. Legend stretched his arms behind his back as he said, “well, let's get going if we’re done with this chit chat. I want out of this lake,” 

 

With murmurs of agreement, they started their plan of action, and Legend stepped off their submerged island and into the deeper cold water. He shuddered, and started swimming towards the fall, with Wind starting behind him. However the boy quickly caught up to him and passed with what the vet swore was a shit eating grin, which stirred something competitive in his soul. He sped up his strokes, almost catching up to Wind before the sailor slowed to a stop just before the waterfall caught him.

 

Coming to a stop next to him, Legend noticed that a contemplative, almost worried look uncharacteristically graced the sailors face. He yelled over the waterfall. “Well? What are you waiting for?” 

 

Wind shook his head, and the look was immediately was replaced with his grin. “Waiting for you to catch up, old man!” 

 

Legend scoffed, even though he was sure Wind couldn't hear it. “I'm going first! If you can, try to land next to me, but focus on just finding land!” 

 

Wind nodded, and Legend began to kick towards the fall once again, slower but more controlled. He felt himself being dragged as the water rushed around him, and with a deep breath to hopefully calm his beating heart, he started his descent. His heart fell in his chest with him, and he quickly pulled the roc’s cape out, the innate magic activating and his plunge slowed. Aiming for land in front of him, a small beach where others could easily leave the water, he leaned forward. When the vet hit the earth, his feet tingling uncomfortably on the impact but not painfully, he let out a relieved sigh of finally being out of that damned lake. 

 

Turning around, he witnessed Wind going over the edge and Legend held his breath as he watched him free fall for a good 3 seconds before slowing. He didn't let that breath out until Wind was closer, a mix of panic and glee obvious on his face, and Legend recognized that the kid was not going to have a pleasant landing. 

 

And, as predicted, the sailor at the last second threw his legs out in front of him, causing him to roll with an audible “oof!” as he face planted into the sand. Legend snorted, and went over to make sure he wasn’t seriously hurt. 

 

“I think I’m going to stick with my deku leaf,” Wind let out a huff when he heaved himself up, refusing Legend's hand. He crossed his arms. 

 

Legend rolled his eyes, “I doubt the smithy would let you keep it anyways,” 

 

“Good, cuz he’s not keeping my deku leaf!” 

 

With another roll of his eyes, Legend turned towards the waterfall to watch for the next group, deeming the conversation over. He heard Wind shuffle behind him, and the younger came to stand next to him. That weird contemplative, worried look crossed over his face again, and the vet sighed. “They’ll be okay, Wind. I doubt this is the stupidest thing we’ve done.”

 

Wind let out a little snicker at that, but he shook his head. “I'm not Twi, I know they’ll be fine even if something goes wrong,” 

 

Legend hm's in response and he briefly wondered what was worrying Wind then, but firmly deemed to not be the one to comfort him. He was not good at that, thank you very much, and he was prepared for silence for the rest of the duration of their wait. 

 

Wind, apparently, had other plans. “What do you think his Hyrule is like?” 

 

“Who knows? All of them have been so different, to say the least. And Four really hasn't told us anything about it,” Legend said with a shrug.

 

 “Do you think there's a reason for that?” 

 

“There's always reasons for people's behavior,” Legend said, contemplating his next words. After a brief moment, he said, “And it's up to Four if he wants to tell us his reasons.” 

 

Wind didn’t respond right away. In the lull of conversation, Legend found himself fidgeting with a stray thread on his tunic, feeling antsy as they waited. Wind spoke up again, “Would you say… you're proud of your Hyrule?”

 

Well, isn't that a loaded question? Legend thought, pausing his fiddling. “What's with you and asking these philosophical things, huh?” 

 

The sailor shrugged, seemingly unable to make eye contact. “I'm just thinking, I guess.”

 

“Dangerous habit for you,” Legend teased, earning an amused huff and a punch to the arm.

 

“You’re avoiding the question, asshat.”

 

Legend sighed. “It's complicated, Wind. There's parts of it I can be proud of, yeah, but there’s other parts I would rather never see again.” Thoughts of dark hallways, even darker landscapes that seemed too big, too dangerous, crossed his mind. 

 

“But, despite that, would you call it a home?” Wind asked, stopping Legend from spiraling too deep into his thoughts. “Are you happy to be there whenever we show up to it? Even with all of its faults?” 

 

Before Legend could respond, he saw the beginning of the raft begin to peak over the edge, and he pointed it out to Wind. With bated breath, both Link’s watched as the raft went into its fall, the three heroes holding the gliders to keep it steady. They were certainly falling faster than Wind with the roc cape, but it wasn't quite a free fall. The raft hit the water, spraying up a wave like a sizable rock getting thrown into a lake, but it remained floating once the water cleared. Wind let out a whoop of excitement, running to where the water lapped at the small beach they were on and waved his arms wildly. The group started to paddle towards them. 

 

Legend let a small smile grace his lips when they hit land, with Wind excitedly talking about how cool that looked.  Would you call it a home? And Legend hesitantly thought to himself, it is one, but so was this.  

 

There was a part of him that felt scared at the admission, a part that knew it wouldn't last forever, but it was a part that could be easily ignored for now as he walked towards Hyrule, patting his successor on the back.

 

---

 

Four was very, very, tired. (Of course we are, dumbass). 

 

The sun was beginning to set by the time Sky was out of the water, the last among them, and Four reasoned he wasn't the only one exhausted as he saw Sky trying to catch his breath, shoo’ing a hovering Warriors away. 

 

The cooling air made him shudder, his still wet under tunic sticking to his skin. He hugged his knees into his chest, trying to find what little warmth there was. (Really wish we could’ve landed anywhere else. We can't fix the past, Blue. Yeah, yeah, whatever. It's too cold to be sitting here! We can't really move, though). He sighed as his colors began to argue more, closing his eyes to fight off a headache. 

 

“How bout it, Four?” Time asked, snapping the smithy out of his thoughts as he opened his eyes to look up at the old man.  

 

“Sorry?”

 

“Is there a good spot to set up camp?” Time asked again, gesturing away from the beach and more inland where sparse line of trees separated them and a field of grass. 

 

“Um,” Four racked his thoughts, trying to remember any dangers he (us?) faced. “We should be, the only thing that was here were octorocks, I'm pretty sure.” He ignored the look Time gave him at his uncertainty, but the older nodded.

 

“Do you need help to walk?” Time asked kindly, offering him a hand.

 

He ignored Blue mumbling about needing help and nodded. Time heaved him up, not carrying him like the smithy expected, but instead offering his arm as support. The ever grumbling Blue was at least a little more pleased at the outcome. Slowly Four dragged his way to where the others converged, already setting up camp. Time led him to where the beginnings of a fire pit was and sat him down on a log. Hyrule immediately replaced Time when the older hero left to help set up, a towel and rag in their hands. They started to remove the bandages on his injured leg. 

 

“Are you going to heal it?” Four asked. Hyrule shot him a look that screamed ‘no duh’, and Four let out a little huff. “It's not that bad, ‘Rule. You’re wasting your magic.”

 

Hyrule shook their head, “It's not wasteful if it helps. Plus, you're going to be dead weight and we’re resting, anyways, so there's no reason not to.” Four stayed silent at that. Deeming his leg cleaned, Hyrule hovered their hands above and a warm glow of magic emanated from them. After a moment, the magic stopped and Four glanced at his leg - clean of blood and only a thin pale scar marring his skin. Hyrule smiled at him. “There! Better, isn't?” 

 

He nodded, “Thanks, traveler. It is.” And here Four was expecting Hyrule to stalk away, to talk to Legend or even Wild - but instead they moved to sit on the log next to him. There was a silence that was more awkward than anything, and Four couldn't help but wonder if he failed the conversation and the traveler was expecting him to say something more. 

 

They cleared their throat. “You’re Hyrule is pretty even if it immediately tried to drown us.” 

 

Four couldn't help but laugh at that. (Is it ours…?) “It wasn't the most pleasant spot to be dumped in, yeah.” (At least we know where we are.) 

 

“That's an understatement of the century, Four,” Wild said with a laugh, coming over to the fire pit. He pulled out some more wood and his well loved cooking pot, and he gave Hyrule a smile that promised nothing but mischief. “You want to start the fire tonight?” 

 

Sensing that whatever was to transpire there was not his problem to deal with, and despite Red wanting to see the fire started, Four pulled away to find a spot to lay his bed roll and unpack, mostly wanting to get out of his wet clothes. He shivered as if on cue. (I hate being cold). Grimacing at his damp pack and hoping that nothing was soaked on the inside, Four started his nightly routine. No one bothered him throughout, so once it was done, the smithy glanced around camp. Everyone was focused on their own tasks or within their own conversations, and a green colored thought passed him. (We need to talk. Alone.)

 

One more glance around the camp confirmed no one was focused on him, so despite knowing that he should at least tell one person he was on a walk, Four sneaked into the thin line of trees, and began his search for a Minish portal. 

 

---

 

Red was always the one who could never quite shake the childlike wonder of shrinking to a world invisible to Hylians, and even with the looming dread of what to come hung in the air between the brothers, that wonder still made him smile. The blades of grass tall enough to be trees, ants big enough to be horses and snails carriages, and of course the Minish themselves - it was something he always looked forward to. 

 

It was just a shame that the others seemed to not share his excitement at the moment. 

 

After Blue confirmed they were alone and safe, the four colors moved to sit in a loose circle. Green was the first to talk. “We need a plan.” 

 

“No shit we do,” Blue mumbled, crossing his arms. “Are you actually gonna give us one, or are you just gonna boss around?” 

 

Green gave him a dirty look, but did not rise to the bait. “They're going to want to go to the castle. We don't have an excuse not to.” 

 

“We will also need to talk to Princess Zelda,” Vio added, “who will want to know why we disappeared and more than likely she will make her own conclusions. There is a chance to talk to her alone without an audience, but the captain of the guards…” 

 

“Asshole might spill the beans anyways even if we convince Zelda not to,” Blue huffed. Red sighed. 

 

“He's nice, Blue. At least he cares.” 

 

“Maybe he shouldn’t.” 

 

Red bit the inside of his cheek, and let the others talk. 

 

“We can tell them that the people just don't like us,” Green said with a shrug, “it's half true anyways. That way it'll make them doubt what they say.” 

 

“That does not stop them from listening, however,” Vio countered, “and if enough say the same thing, especially if they openly talk about the temple and the sword, when does it turn from weird lies to the truth?” 

 

"It took Twilight being injured for them to learn hes Wolfie..." Green said, but he sighed when Vio only raised his eyebrow. "You're right, though. It is a very specific thing to gossip about."

 

“I think we should just not go to the castle,” Blue stated, picking at dirt underneath his fingernails. "Avoid the whole thing. Lead them away from Hyrule Town and to other villages, say that the castle is too far from here. We still learn about black blooded monsters and the villagers have less chance of squealing.” 

 

“But eventually news of us returning will reach Princess Zelda, then there is no choice but to go to the castle. That will lead to more questions once they realize how close it was to Lake Hylia," Vio rebutted.

 

“Or,” Red finally spoke up, undeterred by the nasty look Blue immediately gave him, “we tell them the truth.”  

 

“We can’t Red.” Green said, and he at least tried to look a little sympathetic. “You know why we can't.” 

 

Red didn't respond. It's wrong, and he didn't have the voice to say it out loud. It's wrong.  The others began to argue, again, and Red tuned them out as he looked down at his crossed lap. They were going nowhere, and kept just talking in circles anyways. He wasn't surprised as he saw a tear fall off his face, splattering on his pants. He took a shaky breath in. 

 

“I'm leaving.” Red announced before he could stop himself, ending the conversation. “We've been out to long, the others are probably looking for us.” 

 

“Red-” 

 

“No, just…” Red couldn't look at Green. “You guys can keep talking. Just let me go, please.” 

 

Blue stood up as well and took a step towards Red. “You can't just leave Red. The others will start looking for us!” 

 

“They won't find you.” Red wiped his face with his sleeve. “Minish magic conceals us, remember?”

 

“But what are you going to say when they inevitably ask where we are?” Vio questioned, also rising to his feet. “I agree with Blue. You can not just leave this conversation, all of us need to talk.” 

 

“You guys agree? I must be dreaming.” Red couldn't help but let out a hollow laugh. The others didn't laugh with him. Taking a breath, he continued. “None of you realize how badly this can go. Four is the one who's supposed to be good at teamwork, and here we are refusing to tell them anything? Isn't a team supposed to communicate?” 

 

“And what do you suggest we say, huh?” Blue challenged. He took another step closer. “Hey, guys, we’re actually not from this time! We were sealed away in the Four Sword for who knows how long and we know nothing about this Hyrule!” 

 

“I'm not an idiot-” 

 

“You’re an idiot to think they’ll just take the news sitting down.” Blue stated as if fact. “We’re dealing with time travel Red, what do you think will happen if they try to find us when we all return to our own times? Do you honestly think they’ll just not look for us? What happens when we awaken before we need to?” 

 

“You don't know they will!” Red yelled , and Blue took a step back in surprise. He couldn't stop the words that streamed out of his mouth just as he couldn't stop the tears that stained his face. “Time knows personally what happens if one was to mess with time, it's his hero's title for Hylia’s sake! So does Warriors, and with how many adventures Legend has I wouldn't be surprised if he knew, to,” Red was the one who walked closer, ending in Blues reach. “So admit to me the real reason. We all know that you're scared to be-”

 

Blues surprise quickly melted into anger as he shoved Red away with more force than necessary, knocking him on his butt. “Fuck you Red! Fuck you! You naive shit, stop being on your god damn high horse and stop assuming how I feel!” Blue barred his teeth. “Maybe it would be better for all of us if you leave! If we can survive without Shadow, we can survive without you. ”

 

Red ignored Blues glistening eyes, he ignored the sharp intake of breath from Vio, and resisting the need to apologize, resisting the need to be the one to comfort, he stood up. “Glad we can agree then, Blue.” 

 

“Red!”

 

Despite Green's desperate cry, he turned away and ran into the grass that towers over them, letting shadows overtake him as the night sky twinkled above. He's wrong… He's wrong hes wrong. They all are. 

Notes:

im sure he'll be fine.

This chapter slowly doubled in length compared to the other two, I wasn't expecting Legend to take half of it. I was actually at first worried writing him since I still feel like I don't have a super solid grasp on his character but he certainly kept talking. Wind might also be a little OOC but I like to think the kid is observant. He wasn't asking Legend questions just to fish for conversation, there is reason behind it...

I also apologize it took so long to update and not replying to all the comments. The holidays were busy for me, and I had more hours in my job than normal. It might be a while for the next chapter, to, since I'm possibly getting another job. But don't worry I'm not planning on abandoning this fic! Thank you for your patience and I also thank all of you for the comments even if I don't respond to them, I really truly appreciate yall

As always, have a good day or night :)!

Chapter 4: The colors of your soul, separating your mind

Summary:

Separated, the colors have to face the fallout.

It took Green an hour of searching before he gave up finding Red. The sun fully disappeared, bringing its light with it, and the moon to dim to properly light the landscape. He knew the chances of finding his brother was slim in these conditions. 

 

So with one last shout for Red with no response, Green pushed down his worry and returned to the clearing he left Blue in.

 

Vio was already back by the time Green returned, standing as far away as he could from Blue. The brute himself sat hugging his knees with his head buried in his arms, his back turned away from Vio.  Green couldn’t help but sigh at the sight of them. “Let's head to camp. Red might’ve gone back there.” Vio only hummed in mild agreement. In truth, Green himself wasn't fully convinced, either. Without any words, Vio briskly walked past Green and left the two behind. Green was very tempted to yell at him to wait, but knowing full well Vio wouldn't listen, he let him go.

 

Blue didn’t stand up.

 

Tamping down his frustration, Green walked towards the huddled mass of his brother and nudged him rather harshly with his foot. Blue growled in response. “C’mon, we need to go. I'm sure the others have worked themselves into a tizzy finding us.” 

 

“The others can shove that tizzy up their ass,” Blue muttered, dampened by his arms he still has yet to unbury himself from. “I want to be alone, Green.” 

 

“That's not an option.” Green said, not bothering hiding the annoyance in his voice. “Red’s already missing, we don't need you missing too.” 

 

“I can make my own choices,” Blue rolled his head just enough to scowl at Green. “You’re not in charge of me.” 

 

Green let out a scoff, folding his arms. “Fine! See if I care if you get lost then, it worked out so well for you previously.” 

 

Blue didn't rise to the bait like Green hoped he would, only flipping him off as he buried his head again. Clenching his fists, Green turned around and granted Blue his wish, and walked away. 

 

---

 

It took Vio 5 minutes to return to the Minish portal, a stump Four found earlier. He remembered it taking at least 10 minutes the first time, mostly since Red stopped constantly to admire the smaller world. Vio didn’t really mind, then, even if Green and Blue were trying to hurry them along. It was always nice that Red at least could quite literally stop and enjoy the smell of flowers, but the thought of it now… 

 

The studious color pinched the bridge of his nose. It was a waste of time thinking about it now. 

 

He returned to his original size, checking the surroundings in some hope that Red decided to just wait there. That small hope quickly diminished when no site of crimson caught his eyes. He sighed, and began his trek back to camp, thinking that maybe he could skirt on the edges and have no attention drawn to him.

 

That was quickly dashed the moment he spotted the others, and Twilight immediately honed in on him. He cringed when said rancher caught the captain and old man's attention, and they all three hurriedly went to him, the others also now noticing the color. It was a small miracle that they at least stayed put. 

 

“Vio? Why are you alone?” Warriors asked, in what Wind liked to call his ‘no nonsense voice’. Unfortunately for the both of them, Vio was very good at nonsense. He simply shrugged, and tried to squirm past the trio to Fours pack. Warriors stepped in front of him, blocking the path. “That's not an answer you can just shrug off.” 

 

“I can. And I did.” Vio said, which made War’s already annoyed scowl deepen, and Time crossed his arms.

 

Twilight sighed, and settled his hand on the smaller boy's shoulder. Vio shoved it off, and turned to face the older hero. He raised his hands in defense. “We just worry, is all. Can you at least tell us if they're safe?” 

 

“Do not doubt our abilities,” Vio stated, mildly annoyed, “whatever they're doing, which is nothing any of you should worry about, it's what they choose to do. If they stay in the forest all night it’s of their own volition.” 

 

Twilight shook his head. “We ain't doubtin your abilities, but-” 

 

The rancher was cut off by the arrival of Green, and with their attention now focused on him, Vio slipped away successfully. Avoiding the other Link’s, who were very unsubtly watching the interaction, Vio grabbed Fours pack and slipped into the line of trees. Close enough that at least Green can find him, if he cared to, but far enough from everyone's prying eyes. Pulling out his lantern, he set it dim enough to be able to read, and pulled out his journal and book.

 

Turning to a fresh page, he began to write: Every part of us is needed. Underlining the sentence, his attention turned to the book, and he started to write his notes.

 

---

 

It took Blue 40 minutes after Green left to unfurl from the position he was left in. It took him 5 minutes of debating internally to start his own private search to find Red. 

 

He honestly didn’t know why he felt the need to. He was still mad, furious even, at the more childlike color. But, a part of him that sounded annoyingly Vio like, reasoned that if Red was in some sort of danger leaving him overnight lessens the chances of finding him. 

 

Blue doesn’t know if Red is in danger. He didn’t want to risk it. 

 

“Red!” Blue yelled, loud enough to raise even the sleepiest of Hinox’s. “You can stop hiding now! It's getting way too late!” 

 

No answer. Cursing under his breath, Blue continued the search deeper into the tall grass. “Red! C’mon! This isn't funny!” 

 

An hour in, Blue let out a frustrated noise. “Red! Damn it, listen! I shouldn’t have blown up like that!” No response. Blue choked back a growl as he tore through the grass. “I still think you’re an idiot, but I am too!” 

 

30 minutes after that, Blue felt tears begin to prickle his eyes. “Red! You’re right, okay?! I AM scared! I’m scared of what the others would say if we tell them! I'm scared that they’ll forget us just like everyone else! I'm scared…” Blue wiped his eyes, hard enough to make them raw. “I’m scared that they won’t find us! It's better for everyone if they simply just don't know!” 

 

Nothing. 

 

Every 10 minutes, Blue called out. “Red! Just give me a sign you’re okay! Please!” 

 

Soon, it turned into 5 minutes. “Red! Please, Hylia, Red!” 

 

Eventually, it was every minute. “RED!” 

 

His vocal cords were beginning to give out after shouting the colors name by the time the sun began to creep on the horizon. With a raspy voice, he shouted one more time, before his body collapsed with exhaustion. “Red...!” 

 

Blue knew that Red could be stubborn, like all of them could, but Blue also knew that his brother wouldn’t just disappear for a whole night like this. His reasoning tried to remind him that maybe Red just couldn’t hear him, that he grew and was hiding somewhere else. His gut told him that something was wrong. Something was dangerously wrong, and his now exhausted body and mind could do nothing about it. 

 

“Green, Vio… Red…” He cried into the dirt as he struggled to sit up, only to collapse back down. “Please… Hylia, please give me strength….” 

 

There was no response. His vocal cords fully given up, his body too exhausted to move, Blue found himself staring up at the morning sky - afraid. Alone. 

 

A vicious part of him whispered it's what he deserved. 

 

---

 

It took Red 8 hours to wake up in a dark, empty room. It was less than 4 seconds for him to begin panicking. 

 

“Green? Vio?” Red anxiously whispered, pausing to listen. “Blue?” 

 

The only thing that responded was a resounding silence. One that felt almost to familiar. 

 

“Oh Goddesses, please don't tell me…!” 

 

“Red,” The color jumped as the ( to familiar ) voice called to him, whirring around to face the sound. He was met with darkness. It did nothing to ease his on fire nerves. He fumbled to draw his copy of the Four Sword, expecting nothing to be there, but he paused when he actually felt the hilt of it.

 

“Are you surprised?” 

 

“W-who are you?!” Red pulled the sword, mentally cursing at his hesitation.

 

The voice didn't respond.  

 

“Show yourself!” 

 

“I'm astonished,” Red, glowing eyes pierced the darkness, staring at him down intensely, “and a little hurt you didn’t recognize me.” 

 

Red dropped the sword, and it made no noise as it fell to the ground. 

Notes:

Ive been waiting for this chapter for so long, you have no idea.

Let me know if I skipped anything, and as always, have a good day/night :)

Chapter 5: For All the Friends we Lost

Summary:

Green isn't Red, he doesn't represent the emotions of Four. He still very much has his own, however.

“Link!” 

 

The boy blinked his eyes open, his mind still trying to wake. “Mm? Whatz going on?” 

 

There was a giggle, one that sounded too mischievous, and before Link could really do anything he felt something cold land directly on his forehead. With a yelp, Link tried to jump out of bed - only to find his legs tied in his bed sheets. He quickly found himself face to face with the cold hard floor, with whoever his attacker was snorting a laugh above him. 

 

“Good, hehe, good morning!” Link lifted his face only to lock eyes with Zelda - Dottie - her cheeks dusted with pink and her smile so infectious and joyful that Link found he didn't particularly mind the wake up call.

 

“What was that for?” Link murmured, with no real ill intent, as he sat up rubbing his forehead. He pulled back when he saw snow dripping off his bangs.

 

“It snowed! The first snow of the season!” Dottie stated as she showed Link the snowball she was hiding behind her back. Whatever sleepiness that lingered immediately left his mind as he shot up - not tripping this time, thankfully, and he grabbed the snowball from his friends cupped hands. His fingers immediately started to sting, but he found himself not particularly minding, especially since the sting was short lived as the snowball quickly found its way smushed into Dotties face. 

 

With a squeak, the princess stepped back and wiped her face with her gloved hands, her glare half hearted when unearthed. Link then gave her his own smile. “That's what you get for waking me up!” 

 

“Kids please don't have a snow fight inside!” Link’s Grandpa Smith scolded as he entered the room. “You have a whole world out there covered with the stuff, and you chose to bring it inside? Shoo! Go play outside and have fun!” 

 

They needed not to be told twice, and with hastiness Link got dressed in his snow gear and followed his best friend out. What occurred was probably the most epic battle in history in the kids' minds, one so great that even wise old Grandpa Smith could never possibly decide a winner. So the smith declared that they both earned hot chocolate, shuffling inside while the boy and princess found themselves making snowmen. 

 

“Dottie,” Link said as he flopped into an untouched snow bank, an impossibly wide smile on his face. “Can you promise me something?” 

 

“Hm?” She looked away from their 4th snowman, and Link stared into her eyes.

 

“Can you promise me not to wake me up with a snowball in the face again?” 

 

“Next time don't sleep in, and then maybeee I won't.” 

 

“Wha- Dottie!” 

 

She laughed as Link sat up sputtering. And, despite the threat of being snowballed in his sleep, Link had to admit that he would not trade this for anything in Hyrule.

 

---

 

“Green.”

 

Said color blinked his eyes open, the dream soon fading to the back of his mind and only registering as a faint feeling of sorrow. “Mmph?” He said, still not fully up. Whoever said his name was obviously impatient as the person dropped something heavy on his chest. Green found himself scrambling out of his bed roll only to meet eyes with an unimpressed Vio holding a dim lantern. “What the hell was that for?!” 

 

“You are going to wake up everyone at camp.” 

 

“Well maybe don't drop a book on my chest!” Green quietly hissed as he sat up, said book flopping on his crossed lapped. Vio didn't say anything in response. With a mumble, Green picked up the book - Fours journal, his mind supplied - and he set it aside. Looking around camp, Green noted that everyone was still asleep, minus Legend who was the unlucky Link to get 2nd watch and he was very unabashedly staring at them. He looked away when Green catches his eyes, and Vio cleared his throat. 

 

“Red and Blue are still not back.” 

 

“What?” Green said, returning his full focus on Vio. "How long have they been out?"

 

“About four hours,” Vio supplied, and Green bit the inside of his cheek. The other looks like he hasn't slept a wink of sleep, and knowing his brother, Green summarized he probably hasn't. An empty glass bottle was in Vio's left hand, one that Green recognized as the Elixir Wild gave them, and when the other realized he was looking at it Vio hid the bottle behind him. In response Green rubbed the bridge of his nose.

 

“Vio-”

 

“Something is wrong,” Vio cut him off before Green could lecture him, “they should be back by now, or at least Red should be. I-I understand they were - are - both upset, but to be gone this long? Green, what if they were attacked? Or kidnapped? We just left them there! And now- ” 

 

“Vio.” Green cut him off before he could spiral more, Vios breath coming out too fast . “I need you to breathe with me, okay?” 

 

Exaggerating his breaths, and making sure Vio actually did follow him, Green guided him to sit down. Eventually his breathing evened out, tapering into more shallow controlled breaths. What Green wasn't expecting was to hear a quiet snore, turning to see that Vio actually fell asleep while leaning against him. Good, it was one last thing he had to worry about. Carefully he settled Vio on the sleeping roll and stood. Green sighed, picking up Four’s journal and the lantern, and he found himself drifting towards the firelight.

 

The vet only hummed in vague acknowledgement when Green sat across from him. Cutting the oil off from the lantern, Green set it down and gave his attention to the journal, wondering if Vio was going to show him something. Opening it up to the last page he remembered Four writing in, he quickly noted the underlined “every part of us is needed” followed by Vios chicken scratch of notes that detailed possible ways of reviving Shadow. Green's heart clenched when he saw some smudged ink and tear stains. He closed the book before any other emotions could pop up, the emotional capacity stayed with Red and he simply did not have the energy to unpack it, thank you.

 

“Interesting read?” 

 

Green jumped when Legend spoke, almost completely forgetting that he was there. “Um, I guess it is…” 

 

Legend's eyes narrowed in consideration as he tilted his head, and Green felt the back of his neck prickle at the look. “I noticed the other two are still not back.” 

 

He swallowed. “Yeah. They aren't yet.” 

 

“Are you worried about them? It sounded like Vio was.” 

 

“Of course, but… I'm sure they’re fine, there’s some friends in these woods that-”

 

“Friends? Why didn't we try to find them and stay there then?” 

 

“They're, uh, Minish?” Green stuttered out, and Legend showed his open confusion. “Picori is what Hylians call them, their little fey creatures that only good children can see. They're about 2 inches tall.” 

 

“Aren't you a bit too old to be called a kid? And you’re short, but you aren't 2 inches tall short.” 

 

Green gave a small laugh and his shoulders slumped. “Four was about 10 when he first met them. A friend of his was a sage, he had a spell that could shrink him to the size of Minish. Whatever magic he used we can still use today, and it allows us to see them even still.”

 

Legends eyes shined in curiosity, and a small part of Green was hopeful he forgot his earlier line of questions. “Who was this sage? And what do the Minish look like?” 

 

Green knew he probably should shut up here and now, but he couldn't help the little smile that crept on his face and the flood of words that soon followed. “His name was Ezlo. He was a Minish himself, not that anyone could guess by looking at him. See, he was cursed by a sorcerer named Vaati to look like a hat. Oh! Minish don't look like hats normally, they look like mice… Kinda. Here let me-” he grabbed the journal again, flipping through the pages. He stopped at a page that had little doodles of the creatures, including a picture of Ezlo in his hat form. He moved to sit next to the vet.

 

“This was Ezlo, at first. And this is what Minish look like normally specifically the forest Minish which is what lives here.” Green said, pointing to the drawings. Legend let out a speculative noise.

 

“Why was he cursed to look like a hat? That seems like a very weird curse.” He asked, grabbing the tip of his own blue hat. Green shrugged. 

 

“Honestly I don't know. Inconvenience I guess, he couldn't really walk as fast as a hat…” Green hummed. “Vio probably knows the exact reason why.” 

 

Legend studied the drawing for a while longer. “They’re cute.” He then turned to face Green again, and looked at the tip of his hood. “What was Ezlo like?” 

 

Green gave him a shit eating grin. “A lot like you. A total grump and constantly complaining.” 

 

“Hey!” 

 

He laughed at the vets' grumpy face, proving him completely right. He sobered up after a second, and he found himself gazing at the drawings once again as he fiddled with the metal bird head on his cap. “But he was a good friend. He helped Link a lot as a kid, he was sort of like our second grandpa. I don't know if we would’ve survived through it all without him.” 

 

Legends features softened at the admission, but his brow was still furrowed. After a moment of consideration he asked, “What… happened to him?” 

 

“He um, disappeared. At the end.” Green said. It wasn't the full truth, but close enough he didn't feel too bad lying. “I never really met him as Green, but Link's memories are strong enough that we all remember him…”

 

“I’m sorry,” Legend said after Green paused long enough. He rubbed his eyes and gave Legend a watery smile.

 

“Hey, it's fine. I volunteered the information. Besides, I think he’d prefer it if we talked about him, about the experience Link had.”

 

“Still,” Legend said, “you have the right to grieve him, to grieve the opportunity for him to know Green, and not just Link.”

 

And oh, if Legend only fully knew the extent of that grief. His mind drifted to Zelda and Grandpa Smith, of the old kingdom he never got the chance to live in. The kingdom that young 10 year old boy died in, only to be revived in a Hyrule completely different from his own, split into four parts and hastily glued together again like a cheap mirror. He appreciated that Legend did not comment on the sniffling and choked sobs.

 

“It isn't fair,” Green murmured, “it isn't fair at all.” 

 

And Legend, despite not knowing the full extent of his sorrow, wrapped his arm around the smaller boy's shoulder. 

 

“No,” he agreed, “it never is.”

Notes:

hello im back from the dead

Sorry for the long wait, writing has been. Tough. I had the beginning part of this chapter planned out for a while, but I struggled with the 2nd part. I eventually got there.

Also I get to reveal I've been a secret Green fan the whole time! Aha! I love trying to find what makes Link and Green different, since he is kinda just. The most Link of the colors. Don't worry though, the other colors will have their own fair share of hurt (and Four himself will to. Four will return...)

Also as an aside to the Minish Cap players, I do know that Minish only appear a day every 100 years and that's why Ezlo left at the end of the game. However, I think that specific lore is fine to be futzed with a little because I like the Minish and I think Link deserves his little companions. I think its fine that Ezlo left at the end of MC, and there are ways to explain it more in depth but since its not a super important detail for this particular fic just know that he did leave. Four was hoping to see him again, but being sealed and sent into the future completey dashed that hope.

As always, have a good day or night!

Chapter 6: The Importance of Trust

Summary:

Red gets asked a task and runs. But the chain wont let him off the hook easily.

“... Shadow? But - no, you died!”

 

“Well I’m not doing a very good job at that, clearly.” The piercing eyes rolled playfully, a move that the normally red clad smithy would giggle at but the color was a bit too busy feeling more pressing emotions.

 

“You should be dead! H-how…” Red took a few steps closer, squinting his eyes to see if he could see anything else of Shadow, but the dark counterpart moved away. The room wavered like he was on a ship, and the oppressive darkness seemed  to grow more transparent to the point that Red could see a faint orange and purple tinted sky and impossibly tall trees. Shadow hissed.

 

“Stop!” He demanded, his tone making Red shiver, and he involuntarily took a few steps back. “Do not move away from that sword! In fact you should pick it up right now unless you want to get lost!”

 

“Shadow, what's going on?” Red asked, but obliged in his request and grabbed the Four Sword. As he did the atmosphere immediately blanketed him in the oppressive darkness once again, like someone blew out a torch in a cave. The change made Red's hair stand on end, but Shadow seemed to relax as he let out a sigh. Red clenched the handle of the Four Sword tighter, and he asked again, “Please tell me what's going on!” 

 

“Listen crybaby,” Red scrunched his nose at the nickname, “I don't have much time to talk, since someone decided to sleep for so long, so I need you to shut up and ask your questions at the end.” Shadow explained quickly, a hint of desperation in his voice. 

 

Red wanted to argue since he had many questions already, but only nodded his head in agreement. “Fine.”

 

“Thank the three you're the sensible one,” Shadow mumbled. He seemed to straighten up if his eyes lifting a tad bit higher was anything to go off of. “You’re in the shadows right now, firecracker. Don't ask me how you got here, not that I'm complaining to find a non threatening face around here-”

 

“Wait, non threatening-?” 

 

“That's not important!” Shadow quickly cut him off, and Red was very tempted to argue that no, Shadow, you can't just keep talking like that's not important, but the edge in his voice made him pause. So Red dropped it with an exasperated sigh and motioned for Shadow to keep talking.  

 

Shadow, seemingly picking the hint to hurry it up, let out a little laugh. “I’m sorry to ask this, but you're the only one I know who has even a chance to do it.  I-I need you to convince Vio to stop looking for me.” Red felt his breath hitch, but Shadow kept talking. “If he succeeds something bad will happen, Red. Hyrule ending bad and I… If I can prevent that -” 

 

A rumble shook the ground, and the dark atmosphere once again grew less opaque. “Shadow!”

 

“Stop him!” Shadow begged, and Red felt panic grow in his chest as his bright red eyes grew further away. “You can't give Dark-!” 

 

And just like that, the dark room melted, taking Shadow with it, and soon the only thing left was a blinding light that made Red close his eyes. He felt himself hit the ground hard, making him grunt in pain. His vision swam as he blinked the afterimage of Shadows burning eyes surrounded by pure light. 

 

Once his vision cleared, Red for the first time in his life found himself cursing the light of the sun as it lit the sky.  He was back in the clearing where the argument took place, now noticeably empty. With a hiss of pain, he sat up and rubbed his back as he checked the surroundings. He paused as he saw his shadow cast behind him.

 

It copied Red's little wave perfectly. He liked to imagine it was Shadow waving back. Dropping his shoulders, Red rubbed his eyes.  “You certainly don't make things easy, do you?” 

 

---

 

Wild hummed as they flipped the bacon in the pan, a little song that he learned from a stable master in his time. They were the first to rise, as normal, joining Twilight in his watch. They always enjoyed mornings like this - the quiet peace of the wild uninterrupted by conversations or sounds of fighting. It was a rare occasion, and he was going to enjoy every moment of it. 

 

There was a growing tension that lingered underneath the quiet atmosphere, however, one that Wild hoped would not overtake the peacefulness. Red and Blue still weren't back, and Wild could feel how anxious it made Twilight. Well, maybe there was some of their own anxiousness tied to it, but it was easier to pin it all on the often overbearing rancher. 

 

Four being split and leaving half of himself in the woods and the other half claiming nothing was wrong caused quite a stir at camp. No one last night seemed able to break the tension, and Green quickly excused himself to bed. It didn't help that Wolfie couldn't find the other two colors after searching. It was obvious to everyone that the colors weren't being entirely truthful to them, but there was nothing they did or could do to convince Green or Vio to admit anything.

 

Wild found themselves glancing at the two smiths, curled around each other in sleep. It was a cute sight but it left Wild with a feeling he couldn't quite place. He huffed, and turned his attention back to the pan. 

 

Twilight answered back with a hum, glancing over at them. “What are you making?” 

 

“Bacon and eggs.”

 

“Yummy.” 

 

There was a pause. Someone shifted in their sleeping roll. The bacon sizzled. Twilight dragged a hand down his face and he rose to sit closer to Wild. “Alright, spill it. What's bothering you?” 

 

“Is it that hard to guess?” Wild asked back dryly. Twilight rolled his eyes. 

 

“Alright smart aleck. Let me phrase it this way then: do you want to talk about it?” 

 

Wild shrugged. Twilight seemed to take the hint and dropped the subject. To be honest, Wild himself wasn't entirely sure why this little stunt Four pulled was bothering him so much, much less put it into words. There was concern, yes, and worry about the safety of the two even though Green and Vio were adamant they were fine. But there was something else there, something that made them personally feel hurt. 

 

“I guess…” Wild spoke up again, “I guess I just wish Four would trust us more.”

 

Because that was the thing, wasn't it? Four told him about his splitting first, Four made them a sword that was unbreakable, and Four would teach him weapon maintenance. It was Four that told him teamwork was important, and it was Four they listened to when it came to learning about being in a team. He thought there was a trust there that both of them agreed upon in that courtyard in a Hyrule neither of them knew.

 

Twilight nodded his head. “I do too.” 

 

But did Four so easily forget that trust? Was it ever there in the first place?

 

“Why doesn’t he trust me?” Wild asked out loud, their grip tight on the spatula. “I thought we… After you got hurt. I thought we came to an understanding. So why doesn't he trust me after I trusted him so easily?” 

 

There wasn't an answer to that. The bacon was burning, but Wild couldn't find themselves to care too much about it as Twilight stayed quiet, searching for the right words.

There was some rustling in the trees, and immediately the two Links snapped to attention. Wild held the spatula in front of them like a sword, whereas Twilight grabbed his actual sword. A blur of action in their peripheral vision caught Wild's eyes, and he looked at Warriors who sat up from his bed roll with a knife in his hand. Wild briefly wondered how long the captain had been awake.

 

Their guard quickly dropped when Red entered camp with his hands raised in surrender. Red gave an awkward wave to them as he glanced around. His eyes settled on Green and Vio. “Where's Blue?” 

 

Warriors clicked his tongue. “We were told he was with you.” 

 

“Oh.” Red said. There was guilt written in his face, and his shoulders tensed. “He… Hasn't shown up here at all?”

 

Twilight shook his head and Red's guilt morphed more into a panic. The three all looked at each other, and Warriors was the first to voice their question. “Red, what's going on?” 

 

The color didn't answer their query. Instead he gave a shaky breath in and said, “I need to find him. If we’re not back by the time Green wakes up, please tell him to find us.” 

 

“Wait-!”  

 

But before they could ask more, the color ran back into the woods. Wild let out a curse, dropping their spatula to catch up to the smithy. 

 

“Wild!” 

 

He ignored Twilight's call as he chased, and something in the back of their mind nagged that he was unarmed, but they paid little heed to it. He almost lost sight of Red, but Wild caught up in time just as the color stopped at a stump. “Red- tell me what's going on!” 

 

Red quickly faced him as he caught his breath. He looked conflicted, his eyes watery, but Red shook his head. “I can't, not right now-”  

 

“ Please ,” Wild huffed out, panting equally as hard. “Please trust me Red.” 

 

The smaller hero clenched his jaw. “I do, Wild, I do trust you, but I can't break this promise with the other colors.” 

 

“Bull shit!” Wild let the frustration drip into his voice, “If you did trust us then you wouldn’t have ran! Four would’ve said something, anything, last night! Any one of you could’ve told the fucking truth, but none of you have! So if you say that you trust me then show it!” 

 

“Blue could be in danger!” Red let out, and there were tears flowing on his face now. “We got into an argument last night, okay? It's such a stupid argument and I -  I ran away like an idiot and now Blue is missing - has been missing an entire night. If he’s hurt it's my fault, it's my fault that we’re separated, and it's because of that stupid-” 

 

He cut himself off with a sob. Wild was taken aback, and they found themselves frozen as Red continued to speak. "I do trust you Wild. I wish I could convince the others to as well. But you have to understand that I can't break the colors trust, so please..."

 

Taking a big breath in, Wild slowly approached Red. The color didn't hesitate to hug him when Wild opened their arms, and they stayed like that for a minute. Wild didn't particularly want to break the silence but after that minute they cleared their throat. 

 

“Let me help you, Red. You guys don't have to do this stuff alone, it's what a team’s for right?”

 

The smithy let out a watery laugh. “Yeah. It is.” 

 

So they separated and Red collected himself a little bit more. After another minute in silence Red spoke up. “I have a spell I can use that I don’t know will work on you. So while I’m using it to find Blue, you can look around and keep an eye out. He shouldn’t be too far from here.” 

 

Wild nodded, and they watched as Red stepped on the stump and seemingly disappear. With a goal in mind, Wild set out and started their search. 

 

Red trusted him. There was a part of Four that trusted them. They still feel a mess of emotions over the fact that the whole didn't fully trust him, not yet, but the knowledge that at least Red does helps. He took a deep breath in. 

Right. They had a smithy to find.

Notes:

I think Wild and Four make such interesting friends. In the comic I always found it interesting that those two seemed to be by each other or talk to each other even before the whole argument about Twilight. And I think after that and the apology they gave they would be closer together, but I also think these two are so hot headed. They suck at talking about emotions so much.

I also think both have trust issues and Four's been stretching that trust a lot recently.

As always thank you for reading, and have a good day/night.

Chapter 7: A Long Night Comes to a Close

Summary:

Wars has a bit of self control, and Blue is found.

“Wars, all that pacing is going to give you gray hairs.”

 

The captain huffed, but did not bother to glance over at Hyrule, who stood by the abandoned cooking pot. The traveler woke up with a sound of alarm when Twilight yelled for Wild, which in turn woke Legend up since the vets bed roll was close to theirs. They sighed when Warriors didn't rise to the bait as he continued pacing. 

 

Legend sneered, still sitting on his bed roll. He had his arms folded, his left hand over his right bicep, his pointer finger tapping incessantly. “For goddesses sake Warriors, that was them asking you to sit down. You’re getting to worked up over this!” 

 

Warriors clenched his jaw and he continued his pacing. Legend growled, but said nothing else. 

 

Time, who also awoke with Twilight's shout, was standing still as he stared into the forest. Warriors found himself walking up to him, and the old man briefly glanced over. His eye quickly drifted back to the forest. Undeterred Warriors said, “We should wake Green up.”

 

“And then what?” Legend argued, “Have him run on us too? Corner him like an animal? I'm sure he’d be absolutely delighted to answer your questions just like he was last night when you tried that.” 

 

Warriors opened his mouth to argue, but Time cut him off. “They’ll come back, captain. Have trust in them.” He scoffed. Time looked over at him, challenging, and Warriors looked away. 

 

No one said anything else. Warriors began his pacing again. 

 

Twilight was bouncing his leg up and down on the log. He let out a frustrated noise when the silence stretched for a little too long and stood up abruptly. “I can find them.” 

 

“They’ve only been gone for 5 minutes,” Hyrule pointed out as they dumped the pan of burnt food, “and Four said there's nothing but Octorocks here.” 

 

“And you believe him?” Warriors grumbled under his breath. Time sighed. 

 

“The traveler is right,” He stated, “if they need help they will call for us.” 

 

Twilight looked like he wanted to argue, but he slowly sunk to the log again. “If they’re not back in 10 minutes I’m findin’ them.” 

 

Time hummed, and the nervous silence settled over them like a blanket once more. Legend mumbled “this fucking sucks,” under his breath, and Warriors found himself agreeing. 

 

They sat like that for only a few minutes, but to Wars it felt like minutes too long. With the others no longer speaking he soon got lost in his thoughts. He couldn't help but ruminate over Four’s actions, a constant nagging of what is he hiding? What isn’t he telling us? Will this get someone hurt?

 

Is Blue already hurt?

 

It only stopped when Warriors saw Wind sleepily raise his head from his pillow. The little sailor recognized the atmosphere he woke to after a few sluggish blinks, and in response he homed in on Wars, his face first confused but melting into concern. Wars gave him a strained smile.

 

“Good morning, sailor.” Wars said, in which Wind in turn gave his own smile.

 

“Mornin’!” He replied, standing up with a stretch. He immediately bound up to Wars, now not pacing, and tilted his head. “So? What's got your briefs in a twist?

 

Of course. The captain sighed, dropping his smile. “Red and Blue aren't back. Wild left to find them.”

 

Wind gave a skeptical look, but when the captain didn’t elaborate he nodded his head. “Alright. Well,” and he tugged him over to the cookpot where Hyrule was attempting to make… Soup? “Why don't we help Rulie make something? I'm sure Wild wouldn't mind if we make food for once!” 

 

“Sure. You know how to cook?” Wars asked with humor in his voice, his smile a little bit more genuine.

 

“I can!” Hyrule said as they dumped a seasoning in there. Or, at least, Wars hopes it's a seasoning. 

 

“Ehh,” Wind not so subtly pushed himself between the pot and Hyrule, “I'm sure we can figure it out.” 

 

Wars stood closer to the pot, looking into the brown tinted broth. It smelt pretty bad already. Wars gave a light laugh. “Don’t get your hopes too high up kid.” 

 

“Hey!” Hyrule gave an indignant huff, shoving Wind by the shoulder so they could be closer. “It's not done yet! Give it some time to simmer before you oh so cruelly judge it.” 

 

They continued to banter, with Legend joining the party after a minute or so. They all were trying to convince Hyrule to dump the soup to start over, in which the traveler didn't budge because that's a waste of resources! when Twilight stood. 

 

“It's been 10 minutes.” 

 

Time nodded. “It has.” 

 

That was the only confirmation needed for Twilight. He soon transformed into the wolf, and quickly bound to the trees. All of them watched him go, and when the others turned to discuss the soup once again, their jabs and voices more subdued, Wars found his gaze drifting to Green and Vio. 

 

The violet colored smith stirred, after a moment, as if he knew he was being watched. When he opened his eyes his gaze almost immediately caught Warriors, and the captain found himself in a staring match. He made sure his expression was carefully neutral to match Vio’s own expression of disinterest. 

 

Vio broke first. Sitting up, he quickly turned his head to look at Green. With almost no hesitation he nudged him. Then he poked him a bit harder when the color didn't stir. Green groaned, opening his eyes with sluggish blinks. He muttered something, but Vio shook his head and looked over at Warriors. Green followed and he blinked a few more times as he looked at the captain, his face betraying more surprise than Vio’s. 

 

“Good morning,” Time spoke before Warriors did, and all three of them looked over to the old man, his back now turned to the forest to oversee them. “Did you two sleep well?” 

 

The three others at the pot turned to look at the two smiths. Green faltered under the attention, but Vio simply nodded. It was enough of an answer for Time, who gave a small smile in return. Wars bit the inside of his cheek when Time caught his attention, his eyebrow raised. Am I going to tell them or are you? 

 

He sighed. Clearing his throat, Warriors got the colors' attention. “Red came back to camp. Without Blue.” He said, feeling no need to beat around the bush. “Told us to tell Green to find them if they weren't back when you woke up.” 

 

Both paused, sharing a look and having their own silent conversation. “Did…” Green started, looking over at the captain. “Did he say anything else?” And Warriors knew the underlying question, asking him, personally, do you have anything else to say?

 

“No,” was his response to both, “that was all.” 

 

Green breathed in deeply. “Okay. Thank you, captain, for relaying the message.” He said, and he gathered his sword and pack. “Vio, do you mind staying in case they come back here? I’ll check in 20 minutes if I can't find ‘em.” 

 

Vio hesitated, briefly glancing at Wars, but eventually he nodded. Green gave him a tight smile, and he quickly dashed into the woods just as the others had. Wars stood, his eyes never quite leaving the purple cladded smith. Vio shot him another glance, something more under the cold indifference that Wars couldn't quite place, before he turned his back to gather his things.

 

The tension in his shoulders and the almost robotic movements made Wars clench his jaw. He really did look like a cornered animal.  

 

Letting out an exhale of breath through his nose, Warriors turned back to the boiling pot of liquid. Wind, Legend, and Hyrule, who was watching the scene unfold, sat there awkwardly unsure of what to make themselves. Wind looked up at Wars, and once again the captain put on a strained smile for him.

 

“Well,” he said, “someone has to wake Sky up. Try not to burn the soup even more, yeah?” 

 

The three nodded, and Hyrule quickly returned to stirring the pot. The captain strolled to where the chosen hero slept, and he ignored the pinpricks on his neck as Vio stared at him. 

 

---

 

Blue wasn't quite sure how long he lied there, defeated and exhausted. He closed his eyes eventually to block out the rising sun as he let out shallow breaths. He knew that lying there was a good way to be attacked, but he couldn't find himself to dredge up enough care. If he was attacked he probably deserved it, at this point.

 

What would happen to him if he died, Blue wondered. Would he go back to the sword, his soul forever sealed with it? Would the other three die with him? His mind gave him an image of a dark cladded Link with his stupid purple hair and red eyes.

 

If we can survive without Shadow, we can survive without you. 

 

Maybe there was some truth to that. Blue seemed good to cause division amongst them, maybe it was truly better to let the others live without him. 

 

There was a part of Blue that was screaming at him, knowing damn well that he shouldn't continue to think like that. He had his brothers to protect, he couldn't just leave them…. Right? 

 

But, well, he argued back to himself, they’re just as capable. They're all a part of Link. 

Something nagged at him though, a sense of  familiar magic pulling at the threads of his soul. He blinked his eyes, trying to clear his vision but no matter how much he blinked his surroundings looked… Duller. Darker. He could hear hissing, and a sound of a bell going ding, ding, ding… 

 

“Blue!” A voice called for him. His own voice. A flash of Red, so much more vivid than his surroundings entered his vision, and all at once the oppressive magic dissipated. He let out a breath of air he didn't realize he was holding and he coughed. 

 

“... Red?” Blue croaked out once the fit passed him, and Red gave him a watery smile and laugh. Fat tears ran down his face, and soon Blue found himself sitting up wrapped in a hug. His arms felt too tired to hold Red back, but he buried his head in his shoulder. 

 

“You're safe, thank Hylia you’re safe!” Red cried as he sat his head on top of Blues. Blue sniffled.

 

“That’s supposed to be my line,” he responded. Red snorted. 

 

“You sound terrible,” 

 

“Screaming all night does that,” Blue meant it as a joke, but Red's grip stiffened. 

 

“... I’m sorry. Were you up all night looking for me?” Red pulled away to look at Blue, his face blotchy and his eyes still wet. 

 

Feeling no need to lie, he nodded. Red looked crestfallen at that and Blues gaze hardened. “Stop. I don't need more apologies, just… Tell me, where were you? Why did you only show up now?” 

 

Red hesitated. He looked at the shadow that both cast, and Blues eyes followed. Reds looked... Darker than his. “Red, what's going on?” 

 

“I’m not… Entirely sure.” Red admitted. He stood up, offering a hand to Blue. Despite the ache in his arm, Blue grabbed it. He leaned heavily into Red as he led him, and he waited for Red to continue. “Blue did you… Did you feel anything right before I found you?” 

 

Blue huffed. “Sure. I don't want to delve into that right now, though.” I don't want to talk about it at all.

 

Red did not respond immediately, but eventually he said, “Okay. No talk about emotions then, but did you feel anything else?” 

 

They stopped a bit of a distance away from the Minish portal, but Red didn't lead them further. Blue bit his lip. “I don't know what it was but I guess I felt some sort of magic.”

 

“Did it feel like… Like Shadows magic?” Red asked, and Blue raised his eyebrow. Red didn't elaborate, though, and Blue huffed again. He thought back to the magic, but… 

 

“Kinda?” Blue said, “It wasn't exactly his magic. It was dark, yeah, but it felt more… Not exactly good, but not as malicious.” 

 

Red tilted his head. “It felt like dark magic?”

 

“Yes.” Blue responded quickly. He felt his temper rise a bit. “Are you going to tell me why you’re being so vague, or am I just going to have to guess? You’re acting like Vio with all these questions!” 

 

Red shook his head. "I saw Shadow last night."

 

There was a pause. And Blue let out a quite, "What?"

 

"He told me I got pulled into the shadows," Red continued. "I thought he did it, but... I'm not sure if that's the case anymore."

 

"Who else has the magic to do that though?" Blue asked, "And how... How is he alive?"

 

Red let out a frustrated noise. "I don't know! I just saw you sinking into the shadows, and I panicked cuz what if you couldn't escape and- and-"

 

"Woah, woah, calm down!" Blue said, despite his own want to freak out, "Look at me Red. We'll figure it out, alright? Lets find Green and Vio, and we can discuss it."

 

Red sniffled, but he nodded his head as he pawed his face. They walked, slowly, closer to the portal but stopped when they heard very loud footsteps. Straining their necks up, they saw Green run towards the portal and quickly shrink. 

 

Stumbling out of the portal, he looked like he was ready to continue his sprint but he paused when he saw the two colors. A second passed. Then another. 

 

“... Hi?” Blue said, and Green sagged in relief. 

 

“Thank you Wild!” Green laughed out, “Thank the golden three they remembered where you disappeared, Red!” He came over to them, and he looked both of them over. “Are you guys hurt?” 

 

“No. Just exhausted,” Blue said honestly. Concern painted the other's face, but Blue scoffed. “I’ve had worse, stop worrying.” 

 

Green smirked, but he went to the other side where Red wasn't and tucked Blues arm around his shoulders. “Yeah yeah tough guy, I know you have. C’mon we should get back to Vio and merge again.”

 

“Where is he?” Red asked as they pulled Blue along. 

 

“He stayed back at camp.” Green sighed. “I’m hoping Wars hasn't chewed him out yet.” 

 

Right, the others. Blue forgot that they existed for a moment, and he couldn't help but copy Green's expression. Red clicked his tongue. 

 

“Focus on one thing at a time guys.” Red reminded them. “Blue, do you think you can walk through the portal alone?” 

 

Said color rolled his eyes. “Stop underestimating me. I can walk!” As a show of it, he shoved Green off of him and made wobbly steps into the mouth of the stump. He ignored the burn in his legs as he let the familiar warmth of Minish magic surrounding him, turning him back to his normal Hylian size. He stumbled out of the way for the others, and despite wanting to sit down again his stubborn nature made him stand. 

 

It didn’t take too long for the other two to appear, and not soon after that did Wolfie come running  up to them. Twilight quickly shifted back, the burst of magic making Blues hair stand on edge. “Hey! Y’all are back!” 

 

Red quickly hugged the rancher, and Twilight, a bit surprised at first, hugged him back. “Sorry for making you worry,” Red said. 

 

Twilight huffed, but he had a small smile. “Most important thing is that you're safe. Let me finds Wild, alright? Then we can head back to camp.”

 

Green nodded for them, and Red peeled off of Twilight. Soon he was back into the wolf, and he ran past them. Blue felt achey, and his tired body won out as he sat on the ground. “I have a feeling Four’s gonna be grounded for a while.” 

 

“Oh yeah,” Green said, moving to sit next to him.

 

Red sighed, sitting down as well. He looked like he wanted to say something, but he shook his head and instead said, “We can get through it together. We always do.” 

 

There was something left unspoken between the three, and all of them knew it. But for now the sentiment was nice.

 

“Yeah,” Green mumbled, “together we can get through anything.”

Notes:

And thus, act 1 comes to a close.

Thank you all for enjoying this fic so far! I'm really excited to get into these next parts, its been a joy writing this and seeing nice comments. Sorry I'm bad at responding to them sometimes haha. But! Yes, this is the end of what I've been calling part 1. There's more to come, and there's some stuff in here that's needs expanding....

Blues back! Blues back! And he has a clue to this all. As always, have a good day/night!

Chapter 8: At the Bridge

Summary:

Once again formed, Four and his companions continue their journey. He wasn't expecting to be confronted so soon.

There was a single moment of blissfully empty white silence, where four bodies condensed into one, their fractured soul becoming whole again. The moment, however, does not last as a swirl of too much - Green, wait, Blue - Violet - Red, no no Link, his name is Four. He remembered warmth by the fire and memories haunting his dream, tears mixing with ink as his hands shook with a promise, his body becoming tired and weighted as his voice gave out despite his need to find Red, he has to -

 

Darkness, red eyes, a voice like theirs - his, his voice - demanding to be left in that darkness. Red panic swells as Violet grief storms his mind, clinging to those words that he didn't want to hear but he couldn't forget. 

 

“Stop looking for me.”

 

Why - 

 

“You can't give dark -”

 

Dark? The shadow they've been chasing?

 

“Something bad will happen.”

 

Why can't he have his Shadow back? Isn’t that bad enough?

 

Why why why -

 

It takes a monumental effort to stop from pulling the Sword as Four’s soul became one again. He isn't sure how long he stood there until he realized someone held him by the shoulders, a warm baritone asking if he's okay. Time, his singular eye filled with so much concern, crouched at his level to meet eye to eye. Four lets out a breath as his body finally caught up to the storm in his mind. 

 

“We - I’m fine. Just separated for a bit too long,” He says, a shaky smile on his face. He registers that his body, disappointingly, feels just as tired as it did yesterday night. Maybe even more so. “Takes a second to sort through four different memories.” 

 

Time had a glint in his eye, but his face softened. “It was more than a second, it was 34 seconds, actually.”

 

Four let out a little laugh. “It's a figure of speech, old man. Next time I’ll say it takes me 34 to make you happy.”

 

Time responded with his own small smile. “I’m happy to see you safe, little one. You made all of us worried.” Four shrunk a bit on himself when he heard the disappointment in Time’s voice.

 

“I'm sorry,” Four said, “I should have told someone last night that I needed to take a walk.” 

 

“Yes, you should have,” Time said as he stood to his full height, his right hand never leaving his shoulder. “But what's done is done. Just don't make it a habit, is all that I can ask of you.”

 

Four nodded, and mentally a distinctly green part of him sighed in relief that Time didn't press him more. He felt like a mess, his head and heart still holding onto Shadows' words, and he had no clue how well he could keep his current thoughts to himself if he was interrogated by the older man. Still, the smithy steeled himself as he was gently led closer to the camp. Time didn't ask questions, but that didn’t mean the others wouldn’t. 

 

( We should tell them about Sha - what happened last night. To me and Blue.)

 

(N-not right now, Red, please… Let me figure out what he meant first.) 

 

(It's the best lead we’ve had in a while, Vio. We haven't heard anything of it since Twilight got hurt.) 

 

(I know that- I do, but…)

 

“I'm sorry for running off, both last night and this morning,” Four said, making everyone look at him. The camp was mostly packed and ready to set off, bowls of half eaten soup the only thing left. “And for making all of you worry. I just… Needed to clear my head a bit.”

 

Wind was the first to bound up to him, engulfing the smaller teen in a hug. “I'm glad to see ya whole again, smithy!” The sailor said, but Four didn’t have time to hug him back as the younger boy let go to playfully punch his arm. “That's for disappearing on us. And this,” he said, gently smacking his other bicep, “is making me eat Hyrule's cooking cuz Wild had to search for you. Er, for a part of you.” 

 

Four raised his hands in surrender as Hyrule let out an indignant “ you helped with the soup!” to placate the other. “I'm sorry for making you face that cruel fate, sailor. Truly it was the worst mistake I’ve ever made.”

 

Hyrule let out an even louder huff, but they rolled their eyes playfully. “Wild liked my cooking. All of you just have bad taste buds.” 

 

“I’ve seen Wild eat some… Dubious, barely edible food before," Twilight teased, “so I dunno if you should trust their opinion much.” 

 

“Rude!” Wild squawked, shoving Twilight as the rancher laughed. “I'm the one making your food! In fact, I’m the only one who can cook, so my taste is perfectly fine! You, on the other hand, I've seen some of the stuff you’ve eaten as Wolfie.” 

 

The playful teasing continued, with Legend claiming he could cook fine only for Hyrule to remind that he helped with the “supposedly” awful soup.

 

Four lost track of the conversation as Sky stepped closer to him, standing on his other side that Time didn't occupy. The smithy shot him a curious look, and in response Sky tilted his head. “You said you ‘needed to clear your mind’, did something happen?” Sky asked, quiet enough so only he and Time could hear.

 

Four’s shoulders sagged a bit. “I’m fine. It's just… A shock to be here, after being gone for so long.” He could tell it wasn't the answer Sky wanted, but just as Time did earlier the older hero dropped the subject with a nod.

 

“If something is bugging you, please know I’m willing to listen, Four.” Sky said, and Time hummed to his side. Sky gave the older man a smile. “Any of us will listen.”

 

Four nodded in return, “I know. Thank you, guys, really.” 

 

Time patted him on his head, and stalked off to wrangle the others. Sky stayed by his side for a moment longer. 

 

“I think,” Sky said after a moment, “that we're gonna have an early lunch today.”

 

Four laughed. “Let's just hope Wild won't put too much goron spice in it.” 

 

Sky groaned dramatically. “I don't think my stomach can handle Hyrules soup and goron spice in one day, Four, please don't even joke about that.”

 

Four just laughed harder. 

 

---- 

 

Wind found himself in the middle of their traveling group, with Four, Time, and Twilight ahead, Legend, Hyrule and Wild stuck in the middle with him, then Sky and Warriors rearing the group. He didn't mind the middle, honestly, it meant that he could listen to everyone's conversations. It also meant he wasn’t on active monster looking duty and he could just absorb his surroundings. 

 

He has to admit, it is pretty around Lake Hylia and its rivers. He didn't really enjoy how much climbing they had to do here, since it was layered and none of them fancied jumping down a waterfall again, but, he reasoned with himself, it was still pretty.

 

Once they saw a bridge, however, Wind sighed in relief when Four said they were one cave away from Hyrule Castle. He was getting tired and sleeping in a bed sounded lovely, even though he didn't really like going through a cave. Wind couldn’t help but notice that the smithy faltered the closer they got, though, and his curiosity peaked when he saw two guards on the bridge. Legend stiffened when he noticed them, and he saw Warriors speed up to the front. 

 

“Link?! Is that you?” One of the guards asked when they came into view, and Four gave a nervous wave. They both rushed up to him and for a second Wind swore he saw Legend reach for his sword. 

 

“The captain told us to keep a lookout for you, but it's been weeks !” The other knight, the shorter of the two said. The first nodded her head gravely. 

 

“He's not happy about that, by the way. Even the Princess was starting to fret, especially once she learned the Four Sword was no longer at the sanctuary.” She said, and this one passed a weary look over the rest of them. “Who are you traveling with? I’ve never seen them around before.” 

 

“They're my friends,” Four said, and Warriors was the only one who bowed his head in respect. “I’ve been traveling with them for a while now. It's been out of my control on where we go, or else I would have tried to make a report earlier. The Four Sword is safe in my possession.”

 

The shorter guard gave him an odd look at that, but the taller one nodded her head, satisfied enough with the answer. “You should hurry your way to the castle then, Link. I must ask, though, why are you going this way?”

 

Four shifted at the question, looking nervous and a bit embarrassed. “It's, uh, the fastest way?” 

 

The shorter one gave a huffed laugh, which earned him a smack on the back of the head from the lady knight. “Sorry, sorry, I just forget sometimes you’re not familiar with this land! Link, lad, did you know this is the deadliest way to? It's called the Cave of No Return for a reason!” 

 

Time gave Four one of his Looks at that, and Fours blush deepened even more. “I mean, I’ve gone through it before so obviously there's a way to return from it…” 

 

The taller one gave a sigh as she rubbed the bridge of her nose. “That's not the point Markus meant. Are you sure you and your companions want to go this way? The way around the mountain only adds two hours or so, and more monsters have been cleared.”

 

“And it's not so dark you can only see a few feet ahead of you,” The shorter knight, Markus, added. 

 

“Thank you for the information,” Warriors said, his smile resting easy on his face. Wind saw how tight the edges of it were. “I think we should have a discussion, Link. Do you two mind giving us a minute?” 

 

The lady knight nodded her head. “Of course. If you need directions around the mountain, do not hesitate to ask.” 

 

Again, Warriors nodded his head in thanks as the two crossed the bridge. He rested his hand on Fours shoulder, and the smithy tensed at the contact. The captain led them a bit away from the bridge and soon the Links stood in a circle.

 

Time was the first to break the silence. “So,” he said, and Wind immediately cringed at his tone and he wasn't even the one being scolded. “When were you going to tell us that you planned to go through a deadly cave?” 

 

Four avoided eye contact, but he held his ground. “It's not that bad…” Four said, and he winced when he realized it was a crappy argument. “The Cave of No Return honestly sounds worse than it actually is.” 

 

“You should have told us what to expect, at least.” Wars said. “Or given us options earlier to figure out the best course of action. We don't have any Red Potions, remember? What if some of us got hurt in there?” 

 

“We’re at threat of that anywhere!” Four defended, “Adding more time raises the chances of being attacked too.”

 

“It's only two hours,” Legend snarked, and Four bristled.

 

“Anything can happen in those hours.” Four said, folding his arms. Wind tilted his head. 

 

“Wait,” The sailor piped up, “No, you're argument makes no sense on why you wouldn't tell us about the other way... Markus said you weren't familiar with this land, and the other knight said you could ask for directions.”  Four sucked in a breath. “It sounds more like you didn't know about the other way."

 

That's what broke the smaller boy. He deflated with a sigh as he nodded. “N-no, I didn't. I’ve really only been through here once.”

 

“It's so close to the castle though,” Hyrule said, and Wind found himself agreeing. I thought Four’s been on three adventures before this…

 

Four shifted on his feet, and again he turned defensive. “I've never needed a reason to come here besides the one time, and I was trying to be fast with it. I don't know if you could tell or not, it isn't exactly a restful place.” 

 

“Hey now,” Twilight said, stepping in the middle so everyone can look at him. “I agree with the captain’ that you should've given us a warnin’, but now that we have options we can discuss it here, alright?”

 

Warriors straightened. “Yes, we should. Both ways will get us there before sundown, unless we get stopped for a long period of time for any reason.”

 

“It sounds like going around is safer, to.” Time agreed.

 

“Plus,” Sky added, “no caves are that way. I would prefer that.” 

 

Eventually, everyone agreed, and when Four crossed the bridge with Sky to inform the knights, Wind came up to Warriors. 

 

“Captain,” Wind said, quiet enough only he could hear it. “I'm worried. About Four. Something isn't adding up with him.” 

 

Warriors sighed, nodding. “I am too. His little stunt last night that he still has yet to say anything about, and now this? He's hiding something and it's obviously affecting his judgment.” 

 

“It's not just that. Yesterday, in the lake, he sounded… Sad about the fact it was his time. I chalked it up to being in a tough spot, but he still really hasn’t seemed happy about being here.” Wind said, and he folded his arms. “Maybe it's just this lake he hates, but if it were me even if we got dropped in the middle of the Great Sea I would still be happy it was my era.” 

 

Wars huffed. “He really hasn't told us anything about this time either.”

 

“Exactly!” Wind agreed. Warriors didn't have time to respond, as Four, Sky, and Markus drew over the bridge. The short knight said he was willing to guide them to the castle, since they didn't have a map on hand, and soon they began their travel once more. 

 

Wind couldn't help but glance at the quad-colored boy as they walked. He noticed he wasn't the only one to, seemingly everyone stole a glance or two his way. He sighed as Four raised his hood over his head, and rolled his eyes at everyone being so bad at emotions. Steeling himself, Wind drifted closer to Four. 

 

He was determined to get something out of the smith. Wind knew that at least Time and Sky tried to ask if he was okay, and he wouldn't be surprised if Twilight or Wild tried earlier in the woods too. Obviously, he isn’t, and Wind wasn't just going to stand around while one of his friends was struggling even if Four seemed determined to keep it close to his heart.

 

His attempt was cut short as Twilight suddenly stopped his march, causing everyone to still. “On guard,” He said, his voice just loud enough to be heard by everyone. “I hear monsters.” 

 

Wind had just the right amount of time to grab his sword before a pair of Sky’s Lizalfos charged from their side, and Wind swore. 

“Sky, yours are the worst to deal with!”

Notes:

Last time I blamed Legend for doubling a chapters length, but maybe its been Wind all along.

Also hi! Hello again! And happy anniversary FSA!!! I really wanted to get this out today and in the last hour in my day I made it. Sorry for the long wait!! Also sorry for cutting it off on a cliffhanger again I will not learn to not rely on that trope.

Really, I'm not entirely sure if I like where I stopped it but this chapter was getting to long, and I chose to keep it at this length instead of one short chapter (originally, it was just going to be Fours POV) and then a chapter without Fours POV next. So surprise long chapter. I hope yall have a good day/night!

Chapter 9: The Army

Summary:

Facing an army of monsters, the group splits. While one stays behind, the other finds themselves faced to face with an old foe.

Time blocked one of the Lizalfos' attacks with his shield, the spiked ball at the end of its tail letting out a resounding clang! and leaving him staggering from the force. Wind quickly ran towards the monster and swiped at it, forcing it to jump back with a guttural sound that felt almost like a laugh.

 

“I'll have you know,” Sky said, approaching Wind's other side. The Master Sword was glimmering in his hands, ready to strike the moment the Lizalfos let its guard down. “Your Darknuts are arguably worse.” 

 

Wind scoffed as the three moved back from the swing of the enemy's tail, and Sky took the opportunity once it slowed to slash once, twice, before it backed off again, more frustrated than before. The Master Sword stained red with its blood. “You're comparing Lizalfos to Darknuts! All Darknuts suck ass, those stinky lizards are supposed to be common.”

 

Time let out a small huff of amusement as the so-called stinky lizard staggered forward, blocking Skys next blow with its metal arm, but the foe was used to just one opponent. Seizing the opportunity Time striked its unprotected legs with his Biggorn Sword. The attack made the beast fall with a sharp cry, and Wind took the opportunity to jump and strike true in its chest with his Phantom Sword. As the enemy dissipated in black smoke Sky responded, “I’m pretty sure only Wild has Lizalfos everywhere, and Wild’s count of common shouldn't be the base standard.”

 

Time quickly scanned the battlefield. The other Lizalfos’ was downed thanks to Legend and Hyrule, but there was no time for rest. Bokoblins of Sky’s green, red, and blue variety were beginning to siege upon them from the front of their group where Twilight led and to the back where Warriors and Wild were. “Eyes up,” Time called, immediately focusing his attention to the tree line they stood at, “we still have monsters to kill.”

 

Sky and Wind held no mercy when the Bokoblins sprung their attack. All three quickly dispatched the enemies before they could even swing on them. When Time determined that this front was covered, he began to push his way towards Twilight as he was the only one still alone in dealing with the monsters. He was covering for Markus the knight, who sat with his back against a tree shell shocked. Time frowned at the sight but a very childish, bitter part of him was not surprised at the action.

 

Four beat him to Twilight if only by a few seconds. Nodding at Time, he went to Markus’ side as Time stood by Twilight. His protege gave him a quick glance, but focused back on his fight as Time seamlessly joined him. The Bokoblins weren’t particularly tough, especially since none were black blooded. Time bashed a blue Bokoblin back with his shield as Twilight let out a frustrated noise.

 

“They seem to be never endin’,” Twilight said as he let out a large sweep to kill two Bokoblins. “I ain’t ever seen the Shadow summon this many!”

 

“I doubt they were summoned,” Four called out, the little smithy coming to cover Times blind spot. “Every time we fought a monster we explicitly saw come from the shadows they were always black blooded.”

 

Time furrowed his brow. “Is it possible it's pulling from the chosen’s time?” He asked aloud. 

 

“But why?” Twilight said as he once again fell a Bokoblin. “They're weaker this way, and if it can summon stronger monsters at any time without a portal then why now would it use one?” 

 

Time didn't know the answer, and judging by Fours silence neither did he. What Time did know was the fact that the fight was becoming repetitive and tedious. His own movements were getting slower and yet the Bokoblins kept going…

 

“It's trying to overwhelm us, ” Time responded in realization as he swung his sword and a poof of smoke followed. “These aren't difficult monsters but they are plentiful. Maybe the Shadow realized it couldn't out brute us with black blooded beasts -”

 

“But it can out number us if it pulls from the source,” Four finished Times thought. The smithy killed a Bokoblin by Times side, quickly going for another one. “If that's true then - ”

 

Time yelled out loud, “Captain, we need to find the source! What they lack in strength, they more than make up with how many there are! We’ll wear ourselves thin at this rate!” 

 

“Heard,” Wars yelled back to him, grunting as a green Bokoblin swung down on his shield. The war hero had a scratch on his face, sluggishly bleeding, but looked none the worse. “Twilight, Wind, Time, Sky, Hyrule - find where they're coming from! The rest of us will clear you a way out of here, and follow when we can!”

 

Time began to push through once he got the command, trusting Four to watch his and Twilight's back. He heard Wind give a maniacal laugh followed by a large THUD and Hyrule responding with their own light laugh. Time chuckled internally, knowing full well that the two had it handled. 

 

Arrows peppered the Bokoblins in front of them, clearing the space long enough to push through into the bushes. The moment they had some semblance of peace, Twilight transformed into the wolf and sniffed the air. Sky and Wind rushed through panting and Twilight only gave them a moment before Hyrule showed to begin his rush of a search. Sky let out a miserable exhale of breath but didn't protest as he fell behind Wind. 

 

After following for only a bit, Twilight abruptly stopped in his tracks which caused Time to pause and Wind to almost run into him. In a clearing sat what Time was expecting but still it made a pit in his stomach. There sat a portal in the middle with more monsters coming through to join in an already overcrowded army. All of them were Sky's variety - more Bokoblins, some ChuChus, Octorocks, and the most threatening were at least 3 of his hulking Moblins. The monsters on the edges of the clearing were retreating into the woods, and worryingly there seemed to be a path that a small platoon was forming. Wind let out a curse, but miraculously they have not been spotted yet, so Time took the opportunity to wave them back to briefly retreat out of sight from the main congregation. 

 

“There's too many of them for us to rush,” Time whispered once they found a fallen tree to sit behind, the only cover they had if some monsters wandered nearby. Twilight transformed back into his human form and sighed.

 

“But we can't just leave them,” the rancher pointed out as he rested his chin on his hand, “they're already dispersing into these woods, what if there's folks that live in here?” 

 

“And the main path we were traveling on will be a prime opportunity for them to ambush travelers and knights,” Hyrule added. They were fidgeting slightly, continually checking over the log and scanning their surroundings - waiting for an ambush. 

 

“I’m not saying we leave,” Time defended, “but we need to wait for the others and we have to form a plan.”

 

Wind was holding his pirate charm but he was looking directly at Time. “If there's a portal here that means the Shadow might also be around, right?” 

 

Time tensed. He didn't consider that before. “If it is then that adds to the possibility of one of us getting hurt.” 

 

Twilight huffed when Time quickly glanced at him but didn't say anything more. Wind only nodded and focused his attention on the pirate charm and began trying to contact Wild. It was Sky that spoke up, “There's so many monsters coming through, I never really fathomed that there are that many on the Surface… I hope that everyone is okay there.”

 

Twilight patted him on the shoulder. “Well, look at it this way, if they're all over here then that means there's less of ‘em to deal with in your time, right?” 

 

“Maybe,” Sky said with a strained smile. “Yeah. You’re right.”

 

They sat in silence as Wind's charm buzzed and buzzed. The sailor sighed as he dropped his charm. “They're not answering,” Wind said with a frown, “they're still probably fighting that first wave of monsters.” 

 

Time opened his mouth to tell Wind to keep trying, but something made him stop. The hairs on the back of his neck stood straight, and judging on how the others tensed they felt it too. They all held their breath and listened, picking up clunking footsteps just a few feet away from the log, and Time risked a glance over.

 

His heart dropped as he saw the Shadow in its Lizalfos form, but there was something… Off about it. It didn't seem like it was fully solid, as if it was a wavering shadow in torchlight. The pure malicious magic that was seeping from it poisoned the air and Time couldn't suppress a shiver over the sight of it.

 

It stopped as if sensing its audience, and Time quickly held cover behind the log once again before it turned its head towards them. He took a deep calming breath and put his finger to his lips to stop Wind from talking. They waited and waited to hear the footsteps of their foe, but none ever came.

 

Wind's pirate charm started to glow and Time saw the sailors panicked face as he tried to stop it but Wild's voice began to emanate from it regardless. “Shit shit shit!” Wind whispered as he quickly yanked the stone off and into his bag. 

 

A low growl was all the warning they had before they heard running steps coming closer to them. Time immediately sprung into action, grabbing his sword and vaulting over the log to put himself in front of his group to be the first defender, but the Shadow stopped before it was in his area of attack. Time took a step closer to take the opportunity to be the first to strike, but the Shadow disappeared in a surge of dark magic before he could do anything. The magic immediately flew towards him in a wave so powerful it overwhelmed his senses of sight as if someone blew out a torch in a cave. 

 

He heard a group of startled voices call out to him, and he tried to respond to the desperate pleas but the sudden feeling of falling backwards made his voice catch in his throat. Time expected to hit the ground, figuring that whatever the Shadow did pushed him backwards but the impact never happened. He gathered his courage to yell out for his companions but none responded - the only thing greeting his ears was a sound of rushing wind like he was on the back of a sprinting horse.  

 

Time was growing to become more panicked the longer he couldn't see. But just as it hit the point where Time was starting to think he would never be able to see again, his vision suddenly cleared to a dawning sky. He felt a brief moment of relief until he realized that he was still falling, and before he could think of anything to do he hit the ground with a sickening crunch coming from his arm that impacted the unforgiving earth first. He cried out in pain as his vision wavered, and Time swore that for a brief moment he heard someone call his name before the inky darkness of unconsciousness took over. 

 

---

 

Warriors let out a breath as he killed the last Bokoblin, immediately scanning the field to make sure no one was grievously injured. Legend was limping, Wild was too far up a tree to tell, and Four looked exhausted. He looked towards the knight, Markus, and besides looking shocked he didn't have any visible injuries. He called out, “Sound off.” 

 

“Twisted my knee, but I can still stand,” Legend hissed out, swatting Four away. “I know when to stop.”

 

“That's - ha - the funniest thing you ever said,” Four wheezed, “I'm fine. No injuries.” 

 

Legend flipped Four off as he mumbled under his breath which earned him a glare from the smithy. Wild landed next to Warriors, and the captain tensed up at the sudden noise. “Cut my palm while climbing but I already bandaged it. Nothing else. You?”

 

“The cut on my face is unserious. Any contact from Wind?”

 

“Briefly,” Wild said, grabbing their slate, “but I couldn't respond since I was a little occupied with monsters. Should we chase?”

 

Warriors looked over them all, then towards Markus. “Will you be safe if we leave?”

 

“Y-yes,” Markus confirmed. “What were those things?” 

 

“That's… Complicated. All you need to know is that their monsters not of this time, but that's what we're here for,” Wars said, “if you’re attacked again, their pushovers. But I have a feeling the others got all their attention, and as long as you don't move you most likely won't be attacked. Got it?” 

 

“Yes, sir, yes!” Markus saluted, and Wars pointedly ignored Legends scoff. 

 

“Good. Wild, can you try again?” The captain asked as he turned to the champion. He nodded and immediately fiddled with the slate to do so. “Legend, how bad is your knee? Can you keep up if we do chase?”

 

Legend scowled, folding his arms. “It's fine. I can keep up.” 

 

Warriors studied him for a moment, but he let out a sigh. “I'm sorry to ask you to do so while injured. If you need to stop then tell me and we can stop. ”

 

Legend let out an exasperated breath. “Stop fussing, it's not a life threatening injury!”

 

“But it can make you a sitting target if it gets worse,” Wars said, undeterred by the vet's attitude, “which is why if you need help, tell me.” He paused, and gave him a small teasing smile. “You're scrawny enough I can carry you if need be.”

 

The vet scoffed, but he unfolded his arms and dropped his shoulders. “Do you think yourself as strong as the rancher? Fine. I'll tell you if it gets worse but no picking me up unless you absolutely need to, got it, captain?”

 

“Crystal clear,” Warriors responded, and just as he was about to signal for them to depart Wild let out an aha noise.

 

“Wind? Can you hear me?” Wild called out, and Warriors was expecting to hear a snarky comment from the sailor, but instead all he could hear was a brief string of curses until nothing. “ Wind? Wind, come on, what's happening?!”

 

There still was no response. Wild was tapping the screen in a panic, but nothing they did seemed to work. Eventually they gave up with a huff and hooked their slate to their pants. His panicked gaze met Warriors and he felt his own chest tighten in worry. 

“We follow them,” Wars said, not letting his anxiety overwhelm him. He began to quickly go to the spot where he saw the first group disappear into the forest, only briefly checking over his shoulders to confirm he was being followed. Giving in a deep breath he focused his attention back on the path in front of him. “We will find them, no matter what.”

Notes:

well hi there.

Sorry that it took me 5 MONTHS to write this thing! I was beginning to lose interest in LU for a second there due to my friend getting me into Bauldr's Gate 3, and then I had to move at the beginning of August. So I moved cross country, house hunted, got a new job, and then EOW came out and sucked me back into LOZ and I was inspired to write this fic again! I actually have half of the next chapter written out, so hopefully it wont take another 5 months to release...

But thank you for sticking with this fic! Its getting to the point to the scenes Ive been wanting to write since the beginning. Soon :).

Notes:

Honestly this fic came to be cuz I think about Four and the way the games he came from interact in LOZ canon way way to much. I also think about his relationship to everyone in the chain way to much lmao so here I am writing a multi chapter fic.

For anyone curious what my personal timeline for this is, although it'll be talked about in fic at some point so spoilers kinda, Four Swords happened about a few years after the Minish Cap, and Four Swords Adventure takes about 100 years after Twilight Princess. There's at least a minimum of a thousand years between FS and TP, I don't really have an exact number since the Zelda Timeline doesn't really count in years.

Im not sure how often this will be updated, my schedule is an enigma to even me. I also apologize to any grammatical mistake or if I skipped words, I try to make sure my sentences make (some) sense outside my head. Let me know if you have any questions though, don't be afraid to ask for me to clarify!

Thank you for reading this, btw, and I hope you have a good day or night :)!