Chapter Text
As predicted Twilight hands Wild a truly impressive lecture. His only comfort is that Time is getting the same lecture. The lecture itself isn’t so bad. It’s Twilight's breakdown halfway through that really hurts. He should have taken the lecture from Time, this is much worse than any anger. Wild would die and spend another century in the shrine to save his brothers’ but he can’t save them from love and loss.
Thankfully Time handles it. The tent is too short to stand in meaning Time has to crouch on his knees as he pulls Twilight into his embrace. He’s practically folded on top of Twilight, like his fear and grief are a physical thing Time can shield him from. Wild tries to sit up and join but neither will let him. Together they pause to push his shoulders back down. Twilight does however leave his hand for Wild to hold. Left with few options, Wild clutches Twilight’s hand between his own.
“I’m sorry,” Wild says meekly.
Twilight sobs harder. “No you’re not.” It’s true, partially. Wild doesn’t want to die, he didn’t want to drown. He never wants to leave people to face the grief he lives with daily but Wild knows if he had to pick between himself and a brother, he would pick his brother, every time. They would all die for each other, it just so happened it was Wild’s turn.
Wild tries again. “I don’t want to hurt you.”
Twilight’s head snaps up, there’s a fire in his eyes. “Then live!” he yells. “Don’t be so reckless. Tell us your plans, we could have found another way.” A hopeful thought but Wild isn’t so sure. Maybe… if they knew what they were up against from the beginning. But that's not what happened. If Wild had told the others his plan they never would have let him go through with it.
Then they would all be dead.
Twilight pulls himself out of Time’s embrace to throw his body over Wild. Even in his emotional state he’s still gentle, cradling Wild as he pulls him to his chest. Twilight’s arms cushion Wild’s head and back, wrapping him in a warm embrace. Pressed up close to Twilight’s Wild can hear his heartbeat, steady and warm.
He needs to try again. Find the words to banish Twilight’s fear.
“I love you,” he says. Three words to explain everything he was feeling and why this is how it had to be. Twilight answers him with a kiss to the forehead, warm tears dripping down onto Wild’s face.
Over Twilight’s shoulder Wild can see Time move closer and start rubbing comforting circles on Twilight’s back. They make eye contact. There is a weight behind Time’s eye. Wild has seen it before, when Time thinks he’s not looking. This is the cost of love and Wild is powerless to stop it.
The emotions and struggle of the day are catching up with Wild again. Sleep is calling, even though Wild wishes he could stay awake longer, try to explain himself better to Twilight. Make him understand that this was Wild’s choice, Twilight is not to blame. But his body fails him and Wild falls asleep wrapped in Twilight’s arms.
When he wakes the tent is a little brighter. Twilight has transformed into Wolfie, offering his soft fur as a pillow. Time is still there too, lying on his side and smiling as Wild wakes up. How long he’s been awake and watching, Wild doesn’t know.
“What time is it?” Wild asks. He really has no idea how much time has passed. It’s an uncomfortable feeling, not knowing how long he has been sleeping.
“It’s late morning, you defeated the Morpheel the day before yesterday,” Time explains, propping himself up on one elbow so Wild can see him better. He must have noticed Wild’s trepidation. Time is, unfortunately, getting very good at that.
“So I slept…” his sluggish mind can’t form the whole sentence.
“For a day,” Time finishes for him. “You were in and out of consciousness all day yesterday, before you woke up and talked to me last night. Twilight gave us the riot act early this morning.”
Wild stares, trying to pull any memories from yesterday to the front of his mind. Some are of the Chain, sitting with him. Some are of him being lost in the cave or trapped in the shrine. He knows they can’t all be true. He could ask Time to tell him what really happened but that would mean admitting his nightmares. Actually he probably wouldn’t have to say anything. Wild has been lost in memories so much the last few days Time probably knows exactly what he was dreaming about.
“It’s ok if you can’t remember it all Cub, that’s normal.” Yeah, Time knows exactly what Wild is thinking. Maybe one day he’ll believe Time, but not today, not now. Wild turns his head away in shame.
Time doesn’t push the issue. It must be exhausting having to reassure him as much as Time has. “Are you hungry?” He asks instead.
Wild realizes he is hungry and nods enthusiastically. “Can I eat outside?” He asks. He wants to see the sky again.
“What part of bed rest do you not understand?” Time asks rhetorically.
Wild changes tactics. “Can you carry my bed outside?”
Time smiles. “Sadly, I too am on bed rest, or I would. Let’s wake Twilight and see if he’s agreeable.”
Time starts poking at the fluffy wolf Wild is lying on. It startles Twilight so bad he jumps up onto all fours. Wild’s head slips off his soft wolf pillow onto the blanket beneath him. It reminds Wild how much his body aches. Whatever healing the others had given him he still has a long way to go before he’s at 100% again. Twilight whines apologetically before changing back.
“Sorry Cub, I forgot I was your pillow,” he says.
It does hurt but Wild laughs, hoping to hide his discomfort. The back of his head feels fine but his neck and shoulders didn’t appreciate the sudden movement.
“It’s all good. All these comfy blankets cushioned my fall. Speaking of blankets, can you carry my bed outside?”
“I don’t know Wild,” Twilight says skeptically. “It was raining earlier and it might rain again.”
Wild remembers the rain from yesterday. “I don’t mind,” he decides.
Twilight sighs fondly. “You wouldn’t. Time? Can you roll over? I need to get where you’re laying to pick him up.”
Once Time has shuffled out of the way Twilight moves into a position to slide his arms underneath Wild’s shoulders and knees, lifting him and all his blankets at once. It’s a difficult shuffle to get them both out the front flaps of the tent. It’s not a particularly tall tent. Even Four can’t stand up straight in their tents.
They both emerge from the tent to applause. Wind, Warriors, and Sky are waiting for him. Warriors is stirring something over the fire and Sky is chopping apples. They wave happily at Wild. Wind nearly runs into Twilight as he eagerly offers to arrange Wild’s blankets.
“You’re awake!” Wind calls out. “Finally.”
Between the two of them they arrange Wild so he’s perpendicular to the cook fire with the blanket tucked up to his chest. Time emerges from the tent next to sit down besides Wild and lean against a fallen log.
“I thought you were on bed rest too,” Wild pouts
“Light bed rest,” Time clarifies. “You, however, are on strict bed rest. So don’t go getting any ideas.”
Wild switches his gaze back to Wind. “Is he lying?” He asks.
“He gets one freebie, because I like having everyone out here together,” Wind says. “But don’t you dare stand up again.”
“Where is everyone else?” Wild asks.
“Still sleeping,” Warriors says. “We should wake them up. Wind can you do that?”
Wind nods and turns to face a second tent. That must be where Legend, Four, and Hyrule are sleeping.
“WAKE UP!” Wind shouts. “Wild’s awake!”
Immediately there is the sound of a frantic scramble inside the canvas. All three heroes come rolling out onto the ground, still in their sleep clothes. They are so tangled up in each other, Wild couldn’t say who exited the tent first.
Warriors frowns, miffed. “I could have done that myself.”
It’s too much, Wild hides his face in his hands as he starts giggling. Laughing hurts a little but it’s worth it.
Hyrule extracts himself from the pile first. Stumbling his way to Wild’s side. “Good morning buddy, I'm so happy to see you awake.”
Wild grins. “I’m happy to be awake.”
Legend and Four have caught up. They hover over Wild’s bed, their heads blocking the cloudy sky. They grin back at him. Wild’s smile grows larger until he’s laughing. He’s just happy to be here, with them, outside and safe. His laughter must be infectious because the others start to join in. Everyone crowds around Wild’s bed until he can see them all.
They didn’t escape without some bumps and bruises. Warriors left hand is wrapped and he was stirring the pot with his right. Four has faded bruising across half his face. Twilight’s eyes are puffy and dark, evidence of excessive crying and the electrical shocks he suffered in the dungeon.
That doesn’t matter now. They’re here, laughing and wiping away tears.
That’s how Wild knows it’s finally over. He escaped and everyone is safe.
The relief he feels siphons his energy away. It’s a good thing he’s lying down, Wild wants to go right back to sleep. And why not? He closes his eyes and relaxes into the blankets. Someone puts a hand on his shoulder and gives him a gentle shake.
“Stay awake just a little longer,” Warriors says. “You should eat something.”
Now that Warriors mentions it, Wild notices he is hungry, but maybe not hungry enough to delay sleep. Without opening his eyes Wild asks, “what are you making?”
“Oatmeal and cinnamon apples,” Warriors says.
That actually sounds really good right now. Wild opens his eyes. “Food please,” he pleads.
Warriors gives him a friendly pat on the shoulder as he stands up. “Coming right up Champion. Someone help him sit up, I don’t want him to even try moving on his own.”
It’s Legend that lifts his body into a sitting position, probably by virtue of already being in a good position to help him up. Even with the help it takes longer than Wild would like to get into a position to eat. Warriors is already returning with a full bowl. He lets Wild hold it himself, something Wild was worried he wouldn’t do. It’s comfortingly warm in his hands and smells delicious. Wild digs in.
That's the signal for everyone else to dish up. Twilight is handing Time and Legend their own bowls as Wild starts to lose steam. Warriors dished him up a huge serving and Wild just knows he won’t be able to finish it.
“It’s ok Wild,” Legend says. “I’ll finish your bowl for you. Let’s get you lying down again so you can sleep.”
Wild’s eyes are already closed. Several sets of hands gently maneuver him back down onto his bed. Someone tucks the blanket up around his chin.
It’s the rain that wakes Wild next. Fat, slow drops pitter across his face. Stiffly he pulls one arm free of his cocoon. With his arm free he reaches into the sky, as if he’s trying to catch the rain. Warriors’ friendly face enters into Wild’s field of vision.
“I’m glad you're awake,” Warriors say. “You look really comfortable, it would be a shame to ruin that but we should get you back in the tent.” He reaches across Wild to shake a sleeping Twilight awake. So far Wild can only see the two of them.
“Can’t I stay out here?” Wild asks. He doesn’t mean to sound so whiny but his voice is rough and there is no strength behind what he’s saying.
“It’s raining,” Warriors points out fondly. “If you stay out much longer you’ll get soaked.”
“That doesn’t matter to him captain,” Twilight grunts as he props himself up on his elbows.
“It matters to me,” Warriors says, he turns back to Wild to explain. “We have a limited number of blankets and we need to keep you warm. You lost a lot of blood. If these get wet it will be a while before they dry out.”
“Oh,” Wild says dumbly. He hadn’t forgotten that, per say. It's just that in the face of drowning repeatedly the blood loss hadn’t really registered to him. “I guess that makes sense.”
“Glad you agree,” Twilight says as he begins to pick up Wild again. “You weren’t getting a choice but it’s good that you see reason.”
Wild rolls his eyes as Twilight carries him to the tent. They shuffle into the tent and Wild can see Time and Wind tangled up in a blanket of their own in the back. Is that where everyone else is? Sleeping?
“Don’t let him lay down just yet,” Warriors says. “I want to get some food and water in him first.”
“Is it lunch time?” Wild asks. He’s trying to figure out what time it is now without letting anyone know how much it worries him. All this sleeping is really disorienting.
“More like a late lunch,” Twilight says. He arranges the blankets around Wild so he’s still cocooned while sitting up. Once satisfied he hands Wild a water skin. Wild drinks without question but he doesn’t like the way the cold water feels on the back of his throat.
He can’t be afraid of drinking water! He won’t survive long if that’s the case. Water is kind of important.
Twilight sits down next to him at the entrance to the tent. He’s still wearing his muddy boots so he keeps his legs sticking out the tent flaps that he’s rolled up to give Wild a view outside. Warriors is puttering around the cook fire, heating something up in a pot. Probably the oatmeal from before. The rain is still falling slowly.
“We haven’t really been keeping to a schedule, the past few days were rough for everyone. Today is just going to be one long nap time,” Twilight explains.
“Sorry,” Wild says, tucking his head down and looking away.
Twilight throws an arm around Wild’s shoulders and pulls him closer. “It’s not your fault Cub. Like I said, it’s been rough for everyone.”
“But you’re feeling better?” Wild asks. “Those electrical fish must have hurt.”
When Twilight hums Wild can feel the vibrations in his chest where his head is resting. “They did hurt, but there is a healing spring nearby. I took a swim and my muscles feel much better.”
Cuddled up to Twilight as he is now, Wild can’t look at his face to see if he's lying. He’ll have to trust Twilight is telling the truth.
Warriors walks over holding a bowl. Wild can see the steam rising off it in the cool air.
“Lunch time,” Warriors announces cheerly. “Sorry it’s just leftovers. I’m not as creative as you.”
“S’okay,” Wild says. He accepts the warm bowl from Warriors hand. “It was a good breakfast and I didn’t eat nearly as much as I wanted. But maybe if we want something else for dinner I can cook?”
Warriors narrows his eyes. “You can sit outside and critique our cooking. And that’s the best offer you’re going to get.”
Wild grins and plots ways to be allowed out of bed. He lifts a spoonful of the oatmeal to his mouth, blowing on it before eating. The oats have become more like a porridge after simmering for hours but the flavor is still good. Warriors had added spiced apples again. The brown color lets him know these were cut up hours before. Makes sense, Warrior’s dominant hand is still wrapped up. This must be more of the apples Sky was cutting.
“What happened to your hand?” Wild asks as Warriors situates himself on Wild's other side, mirroring Twilight.
His question makes Warriors laugh. “Wasn’t nearly fast enough to dodge a darknut. It broke my arm. The over-prepared Vet had to rescue me. The bone is mended but it hurts when I try to grip anything.”
Lingering aches are something Wild is familiar with.
“Is he really over-prepared if you needed everything he had?” Wild jokes in between bites.
“Oof, Champion. Let a man have his pride. Go back to eating,” Warriors says.
“I can do both,” Wild says.
“No, he’s right,” Twilight says. “Go back to eating Wild. I’ll make sure to humble Warriors.”
Warriors twists so he can glare at Twilight. “If you weren’t hiding behind an invalid I would make you eat those words.”
“I’m the one hiding?” Twilight says, dramatically clutching his chest with one hand and gesturing to Warriors with the other. The two brothers eye each other up, weighing the pros and cons of starting a wrestling match.
A pillow goes flying past Twilight’s head. Everyone turns to look back into the tent. Wind is glaring back at them from where a sleeping Time is clutching him to his chest.
Wind moves a finger to his lips. “Shhs, now go fetch my pillow,” he whispers.
“You don’t need it,” Twilight says, careful to keep his voice low. "You've got Time.”
“It’s going to get muddy,” Wind whines.
“Should have thought of that before throwing it,” even as Twilight stretches his arm out of the tent to fetch the pillow. Pillow successfully retrieved he brushes the dirt off but doesn’t give it back to Wind. “Are you done eating Wild?”
“Not quite,” Wild says, stuffing another bite in his mouth.
“Let me know when you’re finished. I’ll start setting up your bed again. I even got you a pillow,” Twilight says.
“My pillow,” Wind growls quietly from behind them. Out of the corner of his eye Wild sees Warriors covers his mouth to keep from laughing.
“Actually,” Wild asks, “is my bag in here?”
“Sure is,” Warriors says retrieving it from the corner of the tent. Wild is relieved to see it has his slate clipped to the outside. “What do you need?”
“My comb, I want to brush out my hair before sleeping again.”
Warriors nods. “I was hoping you wouldn’t notice but you do have a bit of a rats nest going on right now. You keep eating, I'll brush out your hair.”
Wild doesn’t want that. It always hurts more when he lets someone else brush his hair. While he doesn’t mind the others playing with his hair he prefers to brush through it first before someone’s less gentle fingers get tangled up in his long locks. “Can you just find my comb? It’s in a side pocket.”
Warriors must be aware how uncomfortable it is when someone else brushes his hair, or he’s humoring Wild’s attempts at independence. Either way he hands over the comb. When Wild finishes up his oatmeal he leaves the bowl sitting outside the tent flaps.
Starting from the ends Wild works his comb through the tangles in his hair. As the bottom portions get cleaned up he starts working his way further and further up his head. Lifting his arms high enough to reach his scalp pulls on his freshly healed ribs. Twilight and Warriors watch him, quietly concerned, but they don’t stop him. He can at least do this for himself.
With the tangles worked out Wild wants to braid his hair. It’s probably going to be a few days before he feels like brushing through his hair again. A braid will save him some time later.
“Has anyone seen what happened to my hair tie?” Wild asks.
“Here,” Twilight says, unwrapping the blue ribbon from his wrist.
“Can I braid your hair?” Warriors offers again. Wild nods, accepting he’s at his limit. It really does hurts to lift his arms. Twilight passes his ribbon off to Warriors instead. Gently, Warriors starts to section off his hair, running the comb through it a few more times to make sure there are no more tangles. For his part Wild tries to hold still.
Now that his hair has been brushed out it feels good as Warriors runs his fingers through it. When he’s done he ties off the end and throws the braid over Wild’s shoulder to inspect. He did a good job, much better than when Warriors first started practicing with his hair.
“Alright,” Warriors announces. “It’s bed time for you again.” Silently, Wild agrees. It’s getting hard to keep his eyes open.
“Give me a minute,” Twilight says. “Let me just clean up the tent then you can lay down.”
Wild’s brow creases. Clean up the tent? What does Twilight mean? Wild can hear him patting the ground behind him, looking for something?
After a minute Twilight moves in front of him again. He’s holding a blond hairball.
“Opps,” Wild says.
Twilight sighs. “I never had to pick hair out of my socks before you.”
“Sorry.”
“I’ve gotten used to it,” Twilight says. “Now lay down. I got you a nice pillow.”
“My pillow,” Wind says groggily, reminding them he’s still awake, if only barely.
The next time Wild wakes it’s dark out. If this is still the same day it means he’s gone to sleep three times today. Impressive and concerning. In the dim light that reflects through the canvas Wild can see Legend crouched over him. Fluttering just above his outstretched hand is a fairy.
“Wake up Wild, this little lady wanted to come say hi and see if she couldn’t help.”
“Hello,” Wild says as she begins zipping up and down his body. There is a familiar tickling sensation that accompanies parts of his body slotting back into place. Immediately his chest feels lighter and the tender skin around where he was bit feels sturdier.
“Thank you,” Wild says. The fairy bobs up and down tiredly before turning to leave. “Wait,” Wild calls out before she can get too far. “I have a gift for you, to thank you.” She turns around and flies back to Wild’s face, holding her hands out. Wild sits up and reaches for his bag with his slate. Even a minute ago he wouldn’t have been able to stretch like this. Fairies are amazing.
With slate in hand Wild flips through his inventory, looking for the honey candy he knows he has stored there. Clicking on the slot he lets a few fall into his hand.
“Here you go,” Wild says. “Enjoy.”
It’s amusing to watch her spend time picking her favorite one. In the end, with great difficulty, she carries away two. Good for her, she deserves them.
“It’s the middle of the night,” Wild asks Legend. “Did you go fairy hunting?”
“Not at all,” Legend says. “Twilight says there are always a few fairies hanging around the light spirit springs. They all helped us out two days ago. I guess this one remembered you and came back wanting to finish the job.”
This is both touching and concerning. The fact that a fairy remembered him and came back paints a vivid picture of how badly off Wild was.
“What time is it?” Wild asks.
“I’m on second watch so about 2 in the morning,” Legend explains.
That means it’s the next day. So much for helping out with dinner. “My sleep schedule is ruined.”
“Maybe you can go back to sleep now, try to sleep again and you can stay awake all day tomorrow,” Legend suggests
“Maybe,” Wild says skeptically, lifting his head. “But not right now. Mind if I join you?”
Legend tries to push him back into his bed. “You’re on bed rest and I can’t carry you.”
Wild resists being put back to bed. Something he actually has the strength to do now. “I can walk by myself. I just got healed by a third fairy.”
It’s hard to tell in the dim light but it looks like Legend is frowning. “The fact that you needed three fairies is exactly why you need to stay in bed.”
“Please Legend,” Wild begs. “I just want to get up and move around a little bit. I’ll go back to sleep once I’ve stretched."
Legend sighs. “If Warriors or Twilight catch you out of bed I'm not responsible.”
“Deal,” Wild says, already kicking the blankets off. He flips through his slate looking for shoes and his cloak. The cloak is in its usual slot, his boots are missing. He’ll ask the others where they put them in the morning.
Stepping out of the tent onto the damp grass, for the first time in two days Wild stands up. His knees shake as he goes from crouching on the ground to standing straight, evidence of how long he’s been in bed. Wild is careful to take the time and stretch before walking towards the dim fire. The last thing he needs is to fall. Then Legend will wake Twilight and Wild will never be allowed to stand again.
There aren’t any rules about staying up during someone else’s watch, per say. Warriors has impressed on them the importance of not distracting the person on watch but it can also be helpful to have someone to talk to when you’re sleepy. It just depends on the person. Legend doesn’t like talking but he appreciates it when Wild gets up in the night and makes him a warm drink or a snack. Since Wild missed dinner, cooking sounds pretty good right now. Or maybe just warm milk. A meal might be too much work at this time of night
He kneels next to the fire and the dew from the earlier rain soaks into his pants knees. To prepare for cooking Wild separates out some coals and adds another log to the main part of the fire. The pot with the milk goes on the fire first. Then Wild starts flipping through his slate looking for ingredients to add. He has a couple of options.
“Any requests?” Wild asks when he can’t decide.
“Vanilla and honey,” Legend suggests.
Wild double checks real quick. “Sorry, no vanilla. I can do cinnamon, honey, or warm safflina.”
Legend takes a minute to think it over. “Cinnamon I guess,” Legend says. “The safflina will put me to sleep.”
With a few clicks the ingredients appeared before Wild.
“Where are your shoes?” Legend asks while Wild is stirring the pot.
“Um,” Wild says stupidly. “I don’t know?”
“They’re not in your slate?” Legend asks.
Wild shakes his head. “Whoever took them off didn’t put them in the slate.”
Legend glances quickly around the camp. “I’m sure they’re around here somewhere.”
Wild drops a cinnamon stick into the warm milk. “I can’t believe you guys lost my shoes.”
“What,” Legend shoots back. “Like you lost my ring.”
A fist tightens around Wild’s heart. That stupid ring. It must have fallen off in the fight with the Morpheel. Wild hadn’t liked it, hadn’t trusted it, but it was Legend’s ring. And Wild had lost it.
“Legend,” Wild starts to apologize. “I’m sorry I don’t know where it is.”
“Oh I know where it is,” Legend says scathingly. “It’s at the bottom of the lake. I asked one thing from you Wild, wear the ring so you don’t drown and what did you do?”
Wild pauses in his stirring to look over his shoulder at Legend. He wants to explain himself but he doesn’t know how to answer.
Legend isn’t waiting for an answer anyway. “We had a plan,” he groans into his hands.
Shame settles deep into Wild’s heart and he looks away from Legend. All Wild had to do was keep his fist clenched and everything would have been fine. No wonder Legend is angry.
Suddenly Wild doesn’t want to be awake anymore. He turns back to the pot, hoping to finish this up and get back to the tent. Steam is rising above the rim. It must be done. Wild pours the milk into two cups he prepared. One for Legend and one for himself, but now he’s lost his appetite. The extra cup gets stored in the slate for later.
“Here you go,” Wild says, bringing Legend the remaining cup as a peace offering. He still can’t look at him from shame. It’s true Wild is always breaking his own equipment but he does try to be extra careful with the other’s stuff. If he can’t do that then Wild doesn’t touch their things. Legend gave Wild his ring and now it’s lost. This is exactly why the others don’t trust him with their stuff.
“I’m sorry I lost your ring,” Wild repeats. Legend slowly lifts his head out of his hands and stares blankly at Wild. It’s a pretty poor apology and it’s no wonder Legend doesn’t have anything to say about it. He just stares in awkward silence until Wild decides he can’t take it anymore. Shoving the cup into Legend’s hand, Wild backs away.
“I’m feeling tired now so I'm going to bed again. Good night,” Wild says in a rush.
Legend is unprepared to take the cup from Wild’s hand and nearly spills it when Wild withdraws his hand. “It’s not about…well…okay, good night,” he says, giving up on whatever he was going to say.
Shoulders slumped, Wild retreats back into the tent. He unclips his slate so he can crawl back into his spot next to Twilight. Suddenly, looking at the slate, Wild has an idea. It will have to wait until morning but maybe Wild can get Legend’s ring back.
Twilight knew he should have been suspicious when he woke up to the smell of a delicious breakfast. Instead Twilight's brain, and nose, didn’t register anything wrong. Half asleep as he was, it just felt like a normal morning. It’s embarrassing how long it took Twilight to figure out that the smells of crepes and rice balls could only mean someone that shouldn’t be out of bed had done just that.
Wild must be up.
Sure enough when Twilight rolls over and pats at the spot Wild had fallen asleep in yesterday he finds it empty. Time at least is still sleeping. Twilight does not have the strength to wrangle both of them back to bed. With a growl he sits up. It was too soon for Wild to be moving around on his own and Twilight intends to enforce that rule.
Outside Wild had set up his kitchen. He was holding a frying pan over an open flame with one hand. The other hand had a spatula he was using to point and direct Hyrule and Wind’s efforts to form rice balls. He looked so happy and normal Twilight almost believed the last few days had been a nightmare. Then Wild turns and sees Twilight. The color drains from his face as he realizes he’s busted.
“Wild,” Twilight growls. Where to even start with this one?
Wild holds his arms up in surrender, fry pan and spatula still in hand. The crepe he’d been working on slips out to fall onto the ground.
It’s so absurd Twilight can’t help but watch its slow and pathetic descent.
Wild isn’t going to admit he shouldn’t be up so Twilight switches targets. “Hyrule, why is he out of bed?”
Without looking up from the fallen crepe Hyrule answers. “A fairy came back in the night and healed him. No need to freak out, he really is ok.”
The crepe continues to distract everyone from the real issue, namely Wild being out of bed. Wind doesn’t seem to care at all about this problem as he picks up the crepe between two fingers and holds it out towards Wild. Wild accepts it and casually tosses it in the fire. That honestly might be the best outcome because for a second there Twilight thought he might try to brush it off and still eat it.
With the crepe taken care of, Wild turns back to Twilight. “See Twilight, I have doctor Hyrule’s approval. Now sit down. Do you want berries or honey on your crepe? I ran out of syrup so we’ve been substituting with honey. Also, where can we go grocery shopping? I need a few ingredients.”
This energy and excitement was a good sign, Wild really must be feeling better. On the other hand it meant they would have a harder time getting Wild to rest so he can fully heal. Because there he was not back to full strength. Up and doing camp chores, sure. Traveling and fighting, no way.
Twilight thinks it over. “I want to go to Ordon next. We might set out tomorrow or the day after.”
Wild immediately starts protesting. “You better not be delaying travel for my sake because I'm feeling fine. Let’s get on the road.”
Twilight crosses his arms, doing his best to channel Time, the one person that actually intimidates Wild. “We are waiting and it is for your sake. Just because you can make breakfast doesn’t mean you're ready to travel.” Twilight looks at Hyrule to back him up.
“Let’s give it a few hours Wild,” Hyrule says. “See if you're still feeling strong this afternoon.”
It’s not exactly the answer Twilight was hoping for but it does delay Wild’s protests. Twilight will just have to make sure Warriors is on his side. He has the backbone to stand up to Wild, unlike a certain traveler.
“Then we are having plain crepes,” Wild says. “I need to conserve my resources.”
Twilight can’t believe the pettiness. “It’s berries and honey, we can find those in the forest.”
“Way to go Twilight,” Wind says. “You ruined breakfast.”
“Oh you aren’t included,” Wild is quick to reassure as he drizzles honey over two crepes. “You’re a growing boy and need a full breakfast.”
“Sweet,” Wind says smugly.
Hyrule hands Twilight a rice ball in solidarity. When Twilight bites into it it’s perfectly cooked and flavorful, but it’s not a sweet crepe.
Legend is the next one to wake up. He doesn’t even bat an eye at Wild being up and cooking. Just a quick glance then he looks away, glaring moodily at the ground. After he sits by the fire Wild brings him crepes heaped with berries and sugar. Wild could just be acting generous to annoy Twilight but there is something timid and sincere about how Wild serves Legend his breakfast. It’s an energy that’s completely mismatched by Legend’s scowling. Something happened between those two.
No one else wakes up while Wild finishes the crepe batter. He stores the uneaten ones in a large pan with a lid next to the fire before setting a kettle of water to boil.
“Wind,” Wild says once the kettle is situated on the coals. “I’m going to refill our water canteens. You’re in charge of the honey and berries. Anyone that doesn’t know how to sail gets half rations. You decide what a half ration is, I don’t care.”
It’s really hard for Twilight to let Wild just walk off. Especially knowing he’s headed towards the lake. He needs to keep Wild in his sight to know he’s ok but Twilight also knows that sort of hovering will only smother Wild. He’s not going to be ok if he doesn’t have a chance to be independent.
Hyrule pats Twilight on the shoulder. “I think you showed excellent restraint,” he says.
“It’s good that we're letting him get back to normal,” Wind agrees as he hands Twilight a heaping plate of crepes and berries.
“We’re still not traveling today.” Twilight refuses to budge on that.
The other three are quick to agree.
When Wild doesn’t return after five minutes Twilight gets antsy. He’s being irrational and he knows it. Wild always turns a five minute walk into a fifteen minute foraging sidequest.
After ten minutes the others are looking nervous too.
“I’m going to remind him he’s boiling water,” Twilight saw, setting aside his empty plate. It really speaks to the level of protectiveness they are all feeling that no one tells Twilight he’s being a mother cucco.
There’s a foot path through the trees leading to lake Hylia. It’s a path made by previous travelers that have camped in the exact same place as them. It’s easy to follow to the lake.
Whatever Twilight was expecting to see Wild doing this wasn’t it. He’s just standing there, water lapping at his calves, holding his slate out in front of him. The sight of Wild standing in the water punches the air out of Twilight’s lungs. It’s terrifying. The Morpheel may be dead but there are still monsters in the water, Twilight is abruptly reminded of that.
Between one moment and the next Twilight is splashing in the water next to Wild. His arm lashes out to grab a handful of Wild’s tunic and fling him backwards out of the water. For a moment it looks like Wild is going to catch himself. Then his bare foot steps on an unsteady rock and he falls to the ground, butt first. When Wild cries out, Twilight comes back to himself.
“No, no, no!” Twilight shouts, reaching for Wild. “Wild I’m so sorry!” Just before he grabs Wild to help him back onto his feet he notices the tears in Wild eyes. Twilight's stomach drops and he backs away.
Wild’s face is flushed red as he tries to wipe the tears off his face and chin. These must be old tears. Twilight didn’t make Wild cry, or he’s not the original source of Wild’s tears. Doesn’t make him feel better, just means Wild had been crying for a while before Twilight had come along to throw him to the ground.
Wild groans as he pushes himself into a standing position. Guilt holds Twilight back from helping Wild to his feet.
“That seemed a little over the top,” Wild groans
“I’m so sorry Wild,” Twilight says. “I saw you there and I panicked. Are you ok? What are you even doing? I thought you were filling up canteens.”
Wild clutches his slate close to his chest, looking over Twilight’s left shoulder. It’s one of his tells, a sure sign he doesn’t think Twilight will approve. As guilty as Twilight feels right now he’s starting to think he was right to be concerned. He just has to keep glowering and Wild will break, hopefully before Twilight does.
Twilight watches as Wild’s fingers start to clench tighter around the slate, his knuckles turning white. Then, just as Twilight hoped, his whole body sags.
“I’m looking for the ring,” he whispers.
“The ring?” Twilight asks.
“Legend’s ring,” Wild explains. His voice is a little louder. “The one I lost.”
Now Twilight understands, well as much as he can. Doesn’t explain why Wild is sneaking off to look and it doesn’t explain why he’s out here crying.
“Are you using magnisis?” he asks. Wild nods. “It’s almost certainly deeper in the lake. You’re not going to be able to reach it from the shore.”
As soon as he says the words he wishes he could swallow them back down. Wild’s eyes start to fill with tears again. All at once he understands. Wild is afraid to swim but he was still pushing himself because he wanted to find that ring. Twilight is almost certain he had interrupted Wild trying to psych himself up to swim in the lake.
Twilight tries to give him a gentle out. “Would you let me use the slate? I know this lake better, if anyone can find it, it’s me.”
“That’s true,” Wild reluctantly agrees.
“Great,” Twilight says, trying to pretend he’s not manipulating Wild into getting as far away from the lake as possible. “Put your shoes back on and head back to camp. You left some water boiling.”
All of a sudden Wild thrusts the slate into his arms, his face turning red again. It’s different from before when he was crying, it’s more of an angry expression.
“Good luck,” Wild spits out, then he turns back to the path that leads into camp, still missing his shoes.
That whole conversation felt like Twilight was triggering traps. The lake clearly upset Wild but there's more to it. More than just Twilight freaking out and pushing him down. It was an accident that Wild accepted with much more grace than Twilight thought was normal. Normally if you push Wild, he pushes back. Except for that part at the end Wild had been reasonable and understanding.
Twilight doesn’t know if it’s a sign that Wild is hurting more than he let on or if guilt is making him obedient. Maybe Twilight should chase after him and check but he’s afraid he’s done enough damage today. And it’s still morning. They’ll talk later and Twilight can try to wheedle the whole story out of him then.
Turning back to Lake Hylia, Twilight thinks he could at least come back to camp with a peace offering.
He had grabbed his bag before following after Wild. It’s preparedness—not paranoia. That means he doesn’t have to awkwardly follow Wild back to camp to fetch his Zora armor. He changes into the armor right there on the shore. With his sword on his back and hookshot at his hip he wades into the water.
The familiarness of the lake bed has somehow turned sinister. As Twilight scans the muddy floor with the slate he contemplates his failures. Twilight should have been able to handle that monster yesterday. This is why the shadow is so dangerous. He corrupts the familiar. The creatures from yesterday aren’t hanging around anymore but if they can’t stop the Shadow, Twilight will need help clearing out the temple before the Zora can continue excavations.
Because Twilight is being extra vigilant he notices right away when Legend dives into the water. He’s wearing his tail again. Is something coming? Twilight is being careful, how could he miss an enemy?
“Is something coming?” Twilight asks.
Legend doesn’t answer, he’s speeding right towards Twilight. With a few powerful swishes of his tail Legend slams into Twilight, grabs two fistfuls of his tunic, and shoves them upward, breaking through the surface.
“Has Nayru cursed you!” Legend screams. “What are you doing out here!”
Twilight grabs Legend by his wrists and pries him off his armor. So it’s not about an incoming threat, Legend is just losing his temper. Legend may be way out of line but Twilight isn’t going to sink to his level and start yelling back. Not yet.
“I’m looking for your ring,” Twilight explains, in as calm a voice as he can manage.
If Twilight thought he could trick Legend into calming down by being the better person he is sorely mistaken. Legend dives down and flips his tail up out of the water just to slam it back down. The tail flip splashes water into Twilight’s face and fills the air with a reverberating crack. That’s real mature Legend.
When Legend resurfaces he doesn’t even pause to breathe before yelling again. “DAMN the ring! Why would you go swimming out here by yourself?”
Let the record show Twilight tried to be nice. There is no point in talking anymore, Instead Twilight lets himself sink back down into the lake where Legend can’t scream at him. Predictably Legend follows, trying to grab at Twilight and pull him back to the surface. Twilight is ready this time and grabs Legend’s tail. Now, even if Legend gets a good grip on him, he’ll have a hard time pulling the two of them up to the surface. Realizing Twilight’s strategy, Legend stops fighting and lets out a voiceless scream, bubbles filling the water between the two of them. Finally, knowing the fight is pointless, Legend starts signing.
“ Just leave the ring, ” Legend says while glaring. “ This lake is huge. I have other magic items. ” he gestures at his tail as if to prove his point.
“ I’m not doing it for you, asshole. ” Twilight finds it hard to form the words, he’s seething with rage and frustration. Not all of it is directed at Legend, he’s feeling a lot of self loathing right now too. “ Wild was looking for it, he needs this ring. ”
“ Stupid. ”
Twilight doesn’t know if he’s talking about him or Wild. Either way he gives Legend’s tail a firm shake.
“ I wasn’t talking about you! ” Legend says when he’s done wriggling in retaliation. His face is filled with so much misery that Twilight finally drops him. With a pout Legend swims to the surface. Twilight feels obligated to follow for some reason. He’s been trying to avoid talking to Legend this whole time, why is he following. When they breach the surface Legend looks like the wet bunny he is.
“I said something stupid,” Legend admits.
Twilight scoffs.
“Can you not,” Legend seethes. “You said Wild was looking for the ring?”
“Yes.”
“That’s my fault,” Legend says.
Twilight starts to grind his teeth together. He remembers the awkward way Wild jumped to serve him breakfast and how Legend practically ignored him. This is Legend’s fault and somehow Wild still thinks he needs to apologize. “What did you do?”
Legend starts fiddling with the rings on his fingers. “Last night, after the fairy healed Wild again, he wanted to get up and stretch his legs, but he couldn’t find his shoes. I guess we never put them back in the slate. I was just joking around. Told him he had no room to talk after he lost my ring. He got upset after that and went back to bed. I didn’t think he would take me seriously. He always makes jokes like that.”
Twilight wants to continue being angry. Legend has a way of being accidentally rude but he looks so miserable as he admits what he said. Besides, Twilight doesn’t have any room to talk. He literally threw Wild to the ground earlier.
“Wild makes those jokes about himself so other people can’t hurt him when they blame him,” Twilight explains. “But it doesn't matter if he turns it into a joke, I know he’s still hurting.”
“Do people really say that sort of stuff to Wild?” Legend asks.
“It’s not as bad anymore,” Twilight says. “He’s got friends and people to defend him. But when he first woke up, with only a voice in the wind and a wolf to guide him, people were pretty cruel. Zora’s domain especially blamed him for the loss of their princess. Never mind they were still living and Wild was the one that had to be painfully put back together over a hundred years.”
There is a part of Twilight that feels guilty telling Legend this, but he needs to know. It’s about time Legend learned to watch his words. At least what Twilight is saying seems to have an effect on Legend. They tread water for a bit thinking over what they’ve both done this morning.
“Uh oh,” Legend says, breaking Twilight’s concentration. He spins around in the water and is about to dive down and look below when he spots the stripe of royal blue on the shore. Warriors had come looking for them.
“Did you tell anyone you were coming out here?” Twilight asks Legend.
“No. He must be looking for you.”
Twilight sighs. “I told people where I was going, you're the one that just swanned off into the forest without telling anyone.”
“Yeah and you left half an hour ago,” Legend points out. “You said you were going to look for Wild then Wild came back and you were nowhere to be found.”
Legend makes an excellent point. Twilight just doesn’t want to acknowledge it. “We should get back to looking for that ring.”
“I agree.”
Legend gives Warriors a cheeky wave before diving underwater again. Head in the water, he gives him another little wave with his tail.
Twilight is more mature. He slips beneath the water without a sound. In the muted light of the lake Twilight keeps scanning with the slate. Legend has a little object that he’s using to search the lake bed. Some sort of magic doohickey that can probably sense other magical objects.
Because they aren’t complete monsters the two of them make sure to pop up from time to time and let Warriors know they are doing fine. At first Warriors is just pacing along the shore. Then he starts throwing rocks. When that doesn’t work he gives up and sits on the shore, waiting. Twilight can’t say why he’s refusing to go talk to Warriors right now. He just needs to fix one problem at a time. Find the ring then he can deal with Warriors.
Twilight is so focused on his task he doesn’t notice when Legend swims up behind him and taps his back. The gentle tap startles Twilight and he twists around in the water. It’s a defensive maneuver he wouldn’t be able to perform on land. Despite jumping 5 feet away from Legend, Twilight tries to pretend he wasn’t startled.
In Legend’s hand is a petite gold band with a classically cut ruby set on top.
Though it seems obvious, Twilight still asks. “ Is that it? ” To which Legend rolls his eyes, closes his fist and swims to the surface. No need for the attitude Twilight just wanted to be sure.
“Time to face the music I guess,” Legend says when Twilight joins him bobbing on the surface.
“This will be a new experience for me,” Twilight says. “I’ll be relying on you Vet to let me know what to do in this sort of situation.”
“What? Getting called out for being stupid?” Legend asks.
“Mmm hmm,” Twilight hums.
Legend snorts. “Please, farm boy, you’re stupid all the time. The rest of us are just too polite to say anything.”
Twilight wants to defend himself but the more he thinks about it the more he feels like Legend might have a point.
Warriors is surprisingly patient as he watches Twilight drag Legend out of the water. When Legend starts looking between Warriors and his tail, clearly wondering if he should take it off now or later, Warriors offers his hand to squeeze. Whatever lecture Warriors has prepared, it can wait until they’re comfortable.
Legend takes a deep a breath and grabs a handful of scales. Twilight keeps a hand on his back bracing him. Warriors braces him from the front, letting Legend lean into him as he grits his teeth. The scales pull off like the inside is covered in suction cups, leaving Legend’s legs red and raw.
While Twilight rubs comforting circles on Legend’s back, guilt floods his mind. It’s painful just to watch and Legend put them on because he was worried about Twilight swimming alone in the lake. Suddenly Legend’s earlier rage makes more sense. He’s two for two on hurting his brothers. Whatever Warriors says, Twilight vows to take his lecture with grace.
“It’s my fault,” Twilight says before Warriors can say anything. “I went looking for the magic ring Wild was using to breathe underwater. Legend just saw me and swam out to make sure I was ok. The tail is so difficult to put on and take off we figured he might as well put it to use helping me look.”
Warriors frowns, clearly not believing that’s all there is to the story. “And one of you couldn’t swim over here and explain that to me why?”
“Twilight can pretend it was all his idea but I make my own choices,” Legend says before Twilight tries explaining again. “I don’t need your permission to leave camp.”
Warriors’ clenches the fist of his working hand around the dagger he is wearing and purses his lips. Twilight face-palms. Well, he did try. If Legend wants to get in trouble that bad, who is Twilight to stop him.
Legend’s open defiance seems to use up the last of Warriors’ good graces.
“You think I’m asking you to come tell me if you want to leave camp to piss? You two went swimming in the lake that nearly killed two of us. There is a real danger out there. We need to stay together. Some of us are vulnerable! We need to be united to protect them. I thought you two at least would understand.”
Twilight has a flashback to Wild’s body lying motionless on this very shore. He was so pale and looked so peaceful. Twilight had wanted to help, to push the water out of Wild’s lungs until he could breathe again. In the end he didn’t even have the strength to push past Warriors to hold Wild’s hand. It’s a horrible memory and standing here feels like death is catching up on them.
“We should get out of here,” he says. An hour ago Twilight was ready to fight Wild to keep him in bed a day longer. Now Twilight is feeling anxious to get him as far away from here as possible.
Warriors sputters. “You want me to yell at you back at camp!”
That’s not what Twilight wants at all. “No, I mean we should pack up and leave the area.”
“Absolutely not,” Warriors yells. “Wild just got out of bed. Time can’t stay awake for more than a few hours without getting a headache. I can’t hold my sword!”
Twilight is determined not to lose his temper, he’s done enough of that today. He needs to explain his plan as clearly and logically as possible if he’s going to get Warriors on his side.
“That’s the problem. Wild just got up and I already found him at the lake. I want to get him as far away from here before…” Twilight trails off. He’s not sure how much Warriors knows about Wild’s fear of drowning. Before this week it was possible Warriors didn’t suspect a thing. But now everyone knows at least a little. Their brothers are observant enough to see some of the scars that marred Wild’s mind. The question is how much. Will Wild ever have the right to tell his own story when and where he wants to?
“Before what?” Warriors asks. “Before he takes a swim to prove he’s not afraid?”
Twilight nods, hating himself for confirming another brother suspicious. That’s exactly what Twilight is afraid of, or worse, Wild takes a swim and discovers he can’t hold his breath while injured. At least no one else new knows the source of Wild’s trauma.
“Alright,” Warriors continues. “Let me hear your plan.”
“I want to go to Ordon,” Twilight says. “It’s two days of travel—”
“More like three or four,” Legend interrupts, “with the condition we’re in.”
Warriors points at Legend in agreement and Twilight tilts his head in acknowledgement. Two days is pretty optimistic.
“Three days to my home, then we’re safe. The people there will take care of us. We can rest, sleep in real beds. Wild will be far away from this place and he can start to recover.”
“And if we push our injured too far too fast? I’m worried about Wild getting an infection.”
This was news to Twilight “What do you mean?”
Warriors grimaces. “I don’t want to alarm anyone but Wild’s face was pretty flushed when he came back to camp.”
With a start, Twilight realizes Warriors misread the situation. He’s mistaken high emotions for a high fever. Wild isn’t getting sick. He’s upset.
“Did you check his wound?” Legend asked quickly. Neither of them acknowledge how Twilight startled. It says something about how predictable he is, at least when it comes to Wild. This time they’ve got it wrong. Twilight isn’t sure he should correct them.
“Of course I checked his wound,” Warriors says while glowering at Legend. “He’s so bruised it’s hard to tell. He let me look at it but if it’s red or inflamed I can’t tell under all that bruising. I dabbed some honey on the cuts to hopefully kill any infection but that was all. I’m not even sure if the wound is infected. Maybe his ribs shifted and didn’t heal right and now they’re restricting his air.”
Warriors can’t go on treating a problem that doesn’t exist. Twilight finally decides to speak up. “I don’t think he’s running a fever.”
“Oh,” Warriors says, turning his attention back to Twilight. “Why’s that?”
Twilight doesn’t want to say anything, he’s been sharing Wild’s secrets more than enough these last few days. But if the alternative is everyone poking and prodding at his wound? Well, Twilight already decided to speak up.
“He was crying earlier, that’s why his face was all red, and that’s all I’m gonna to say on the matter.”
“Did I make him cry?” Legend asks in a voice quiet and contrite voice.
Twilight winces. From what Legend described last night it does seem like he drove Wild to try and face his fear at the lake. Twilight doesn’t want to say it, but it’s true. It’s also not the only reason Wild could have been crying. Twilight played a part in this too.
Legend’s face falls even more. Twilight wants to reassure him it’s not all his fault but he’s already said enough.
“Well,” Warriors says, when neither of them offer up more information. “At least I know why he was being so cagey.”
“Since infection isn’t a problem, what's your opinion on leaving now?” Twilight asks.
Putting his hand on his chin, Warriors thinks about it. “Let me talk to Time first,” he says at last.
“You know Time will agree,” Twilight points out.
“I’m not asking him if he wants to leave, I’m probing to see if he’s actually ready to travel,” Warriors says.
“Good idea, I'll do the same with Wild. Talk later and hopefully we can get on the road in the afternoon?” Twilight suggests.
Warriors laughs, "I'm not as worried about Wild now. Besides I’ve been expecting you to just carry him if he even stumbles.”
Twilight laughs too, he’s tempted. He gives Warriors a playful shove and they start down the trail back to camp.
The trail is narrow and they walk in single file; Warriors first and Legend in the back. Legend hasn’t said a word since the revelation that Wild was at the lake crying. Now that Twilight isn’t so angry he feels for Legend. He’s a good person with a stupid mouth. Twilight is the one too strong for his own good.
At the edge of camp, as they start to hear the sound of the others moving around, Legend grabs Twilight’s arm.
“Wait,” he says. Twilight waits patiently. Legend’s mouth opens and closes several times, trying to find the words he wants to tell Twilight. He gives up and shoves the ring into Twilight's hand.
Twilight answers the unasked question. “I’ll give it to him.” He gives Legend a hopefully comforting pat on the shoulder and turns to enter camp. Legend hangs back. He knows better now to stay with the group but he's not ready to enter camp. Legend will join the others when he’s ready.
In camp Twilight’s eyes immediately seek out Wild and Time. They’re both sitting propped up against a fallen tree. Warriors is standing next to them. His body language suggests he’s joking and laughing with them. While Twilight is walking closer he sees Warriors reach down to help Time stand. Twilight just catches the trail end of what he’s saying.
“—Around the corner, I'll show you.” Warriors says, leading Time out of camp and In the opposite direction Twilight just came. Warriors has Time handled, now it’s Twilight turn. He moves to sit in Time’s vacated seat.
“I don’t think I properly apologized for what happened at the lake,” Twilight says as he lowers himself to the ground.
“It’s alright,” Wild tries to deflect. “It was an accident, I know that.”
Twilight won’t be deterred. “Accident or not I shouldn’t have pushed you. Wild, I'm sorry.”
Wild leans into Twilight, resting his head on Twilight’s shoulder. “It’s ok Twi, I’m alright.”
There’s an opening if Twilight ever saw one. “Are you ok, really ok? It looked like you fell pretty hard.”
“I fell on my butt Twilight, one of the few places I’m not injured. I’m fine.”
“So I have the honor of breaking the last spot on your body that isn’t healing.”
Wild sniggers and stretches his arms out in front of himself. “Not true, my arms are pretty ok. And my toes, I think those are fine.”
That reminds him. With one hand Twilight reaches out and snags Wild’s wrist. The other hand goes fishing in his pocket for the ring. He slides it easily on Wild’s middle finger, it’s still too loose. Wild stops talking to stare at it, probably shocked they actually found the thing.
“I’m getting so many marriage proposals.”
“Wrong finger for a proposal you dork. But really are you ok? Honest and thorough answer or I'll call Hyrule over here.”
Wild groans. “No need, Warriors already gave me a check up.” Then, just to prove how healthy he was, Wild turned his head to cough into his elbow. “Don’t give me that look, My throat is just sore. I didn’t drink enough yesterday.”
Twilight starts to scramble to his feet. “Let me get—”
“No need,” Wild says, cutting him off. He holds up a steaming mug from where it had been hiding behind his leg. “I’ve got tea. Actually let me get you some too, you must be cold from swimming.”
It’s hard but Twilight has to let Wild get up to serve him tea. Wild would never tell anyone he’s not feeling well, if Twilight is going to know if Wild can travel he’ll have to observe him.
Wild does manage to stand up on his own. Using Twilight’s shoulder to steady himself, he moves gingerly but he doesn’t stumble. The kettle Wild had set to boil earlier has been moved off the fire. Twilight can still see a little steam escaping the lid. With a few taps of his slate Wild produces a mug.
“Since you're serving up tea already, check if Legend wants some,” Twilight suggests. Legend has snuck back into camp while they were talking. It probably wasn't Twilight’s business but he was going to try and give Legend a chance to apologize.
A few more taps and another mug appears.
“Is Legend back then?” Wild asks, casting his gaze around. Twilight can see the moment Wild spots him, his expression turns devastated. Did Twilight miscalculate? Wild has never been one to hold a grudge and Legend is prickly but his love for his brothers is undeniable.
“He’s all wet,” the words seem to slip out of Wild against his will. Twilight has a moment to think maybe there was a reason Legend wanted Twilight to give Wild the ring before red starts creeping up Wild’s face again. The kettle is put down with more force than necessary, splashing the concerningly hot water onto Wild’s hand. If it hurts, Wild gives no indication, just removes the ring and tosses it to Twilight.
“You should give this back to Legend, it’s his after all,” he says. “I need to ask Time a question.” And with that he turns to leave, following Time and Warriors out of camp.
The next person to approach Twilight about leaving is Time. He must have passed Warriors inspection because he’s been filled in on the plan.
“I think you’re right by the way. Being here, it feels cursed.” Time says. “If you hadn’t said anything I would have suggested it myself.”
“I just don’t want him trying to prove something and getting hurt,” Twilight explains.
Time lowers himself to the ground next to Twilight with more then his normal grunts and groans. Twilight tries not to read too much into that. Rusl says it becomes hard to lift and lower your body when you’re old. Twilight just wishes he knew Time’s age actually so he can know if this is normal or if Time is just trying to downplay his injuries.
“There’s more to it than just that,” Time says, lowering his voice. “I already told Warriors this but Wild didn’t end up down there by accident.”
“What do you mean?” Twilight whispers back.
“Think about it, what are the chances that Wild gets hunted by a monster that only he can kill, in an underwater temple where he is at his weakest.”
Ice slides down Twilight’s back as he puts it together. The Shadow had singled Wild out and tried to kill him. It speaks of a level of planning the Shadow had yet to display.
“Does Wild know?” Please Ordona, don’t let him know.
Time’s shoulders sag. “Who do you think told me?”
That’s it, time’s up. They need to start packing. Twilight looks around at the camp. It’s messy with everyone’s stuff scattered all over the place. Laundry is hanging to dry on tree branches. Dishes are stacked in a pile to clean later. They had actually unpacked the tents thinking they would be here for a few days.
Time claps Twilight on the shoulder to get him moving. “Start on those dishes Pup, I’ll rally the rest of the troops.”
Standing up highlights all the bruises and sore muscles in Twilight’s own body. Twilight will feel better after he gets moving. He may not be sure how Time is old but he knows for a fact his own body is too young to be creaking this much.
Before starting dishes, Twilight refills the kettle and leaves it to boil again. It’s not Wild’s fault, they should have been taking better care of him, but he might be a little dehydrated. If tea is what he wants, then Twilight will make him a full canteen.
It’s funny how predictable Legend is, appearing at Twilight’s elbow, asking for a map and a route.
“Let me finish these dishes,” Twilight says. “Then I’ll show you a map. In the meantime, I think the water is hot enough now. Can you brew Wild some tea?”
“Tea?” Legend repeats back slowly.
“Yep,” Twilight says.
“And Wild has the tea leaves?”
“Last I checked, yes. Wild has our food.”
There is no movement from Legend. Twilight abandons his scrubbing to look at him. He’s ringing his hands the same way he did in Lake Hylia when he confessed. So Legend is still afraid to talk to Wild. That’s just great.
“Look Vet,” Twilight says. “You have to apologize to him eventually.”
“I will,” Legend is quick to protest. “I’m just giving him some time so I don’t upset him even more. You gave him the ring right? When he feels like talking he’ll give it back. I can apologize then.”
Legend is always the man with a plan. Unfortunately that plan is sitting in Twilight’s pocket. He flings the water from his hands before returning the ring to Legend.
“You didn’t give it back?” Legend nearly shrieks.
Twilight sighs. To quote Warriors, these young heroes . “I did, but he knows you found it. Whatever convoluted plan you had in mind to get him to forgive you is over.”
“He won’t want to talk to me.”
“What he wants,” Twilight growls, poking Legend in the chest. “Is his brothers’ love. Even if he loses things, even if he breaks them. You need to make sure that he understands there is nothing he can do that would change your love for him.”
Legend gives Twilight one last desperate look before leaving to search out Wild. Twilight will just have to see if he actually apologizes later, he’s wasted enough time holding Legend’s hand through this whole process.
Dishes done, Twilight moves on to checking Epona’s tack. Wild doesn’t know it yet but he’s going to be riding her today. The reins and saddle are still strong, if a little dried out. It’s a good thing he’s almost home. The leather could use some conditioning, a task he’s been putting off while on the road. Wild and Epona will be fine for now but it would be really bad if a strap broke while in battle.
Even though Twilight is trying to stay out of it, he can’t help but notice when Legend comes stomping back into camp, little pouch of tea leaves clutched in his hand. Warriors and Wild aren’t far behind. Legend doesn’t look successful.
“Are we leaving?” Wild asks. He sounds a little bit smug and looks loads more cheerful then when he left camp. At least Legend didn’t make things worse. Twilight is reminded of his earlier vow not to let Wild travel today. He’s eating those words now and Wild seems to know it. He’ll wipe that smug look off Wild’s face when he finds out he’s not walking.
Twilight finishes tacking Epona.
“Wild, do you think you have a snack for Epona? I want to give her a treat before we leave.”
“I sure do,” Wild says, walking over and producing an apple and a carrot. “This lovely lady deserves all the treats with all the hard work she does.”
Twilight smiles. “About that, you’re going to be riding her today.”
“What—” Wild says, whipping his head around to stare at Twilight. “What about all our bags?”
“She’s a strong girl, a working girl,” Twilight reassures him. “She carries people and things all the time. It’s you I'm worried about. I’m glad you’re feeling better but let's not waste your energy walking when you need to be healing.”
Wild looks away, ashamed for some reason. He shouldn’t be, he fought harder than anyone in that battle.
“Just accept it Cub,” Twilight says. “I know you know how strong she is. Carrying you isn’t a burden. And I mean that for all of us. Let us take care of you.”
Wild doesn't look back from where he’s stroking Epona’s neck but he nods to show he understands. That's good enough for Twilight.
“We’ve still got a little bit of packing to do but I'll help you mount up now so you’re ready to go.”
As Wild acknowledges him, Twilight cups his finger together. Wild uses Twilight’s hands to step up onto Epona’s saddle. It takes a moment for Wild to get situated. When he’s done shifting Twilight gives his knee a squeeze and is rewarded when Wild smiles down at him.
“I’m excited to see your home,” he says.
“Not as excited as I am to show you.” Twilight says. “You, Flora, your friends, the stable folks, you’ve always made me feel welcome. I’ve wanted to do the same for a while. Sorry your introduction to my world was so harsh.”
“Don’t say that,” Wild says. He moves his hand to rest on top of Twilight’s and gives him a squeeze in return. “I’m happy to be here, a little danger never stopped me from loving a place.”
This is true, even when Malice had infected every corner of his Hyrule, Wild had never stopped loving it. It gave Twilight hope. Wild would bounce back, he always does.