#plot moves forward

Caldus tracked Fynta all the way to the fresher, his molten eyes burning with disdain until they vanished behind the closed door. She didn’t bother pretending that she wasn’t going to listen and pressed her ear to the hollow material in time to hear the Cathar’s rumbling growl. 

“You got a crush on her?” A loud thump indicated that Caldus had made it to the bed.

Altan’s answer was softer, almost ashamed. “She’s our ally. There is no point in alienating her.”

”She’s a fucking human.” The venom behind those words painted a clear picture. Verin had told Fynta about the Cathar’s comment to Cinlat. That it was better being feared in beskar than a slave to Imperials. 

“She’s using you,” Caldus spat, followed by the rattle of bottles. “Don’t let your guard down.”

”She’s not the one treating me like a child,” Altan snapped, then took a deep breath. “I’m an asset to her, not someone she had to protect.”

Caldus’s snarled response was too low to translate through the fresher door. Fynta decided to make her entrance while Altan was still brave enough to face off with his brother. She imagined being a quiet man in Clan Vizla meant his opinions were often drowned out by their noise. 

Throwing open the door, Fynta stretched as she crossed the room. She ignored Caldus’s glare and reclaimed her seat on the floor next to Altan. He offered her the datapad, eyes still fixed on his brother, and Fynta sent the armour request to Solus. Caldus sat forward, his knee jabbing into Fynta’s shoulder. She gave it a shove and the grumpy bastard spread out more. 

”Now that everyone is here,” Fynta started, refusing to look at the Cathar. “Shall we go over these files?” 

That got Caldus’s attention at least. Altan’s too. 

They stopped glaring at one another long enough to move closer to her. Fynta opened the holo program on her datapad and entered the password that Keeper had included in their hiring packet. “Where should we start?”

Altan reached forward, hesitating until Fynta moved the datapad closer to him, then scanned through the items. “There were four other teams before us, one was an Imperial Spec Ops group. There should be body-cam footage.”

A few more swipes, and the Togruta’s lips pressed into a thin line. “Nothing. That’s odd.” Even with full access, the contract was vague. Altan’s brows drew together. “Just this file from nearly a month ago, no label.”

”Play it,” Caldus rumbled, dropping what Fynta realized was an empty beer bottle onto the floor beside her. He sighed and leaned over her shoulder to see the screen. “Maybe it will show us what we’re up against.” 

Caldus’s thigh pushed against Fynta’s shoulder, but she refused to be moved. The haze of alcohol seemed to clear from his eyes by the second, leaving Fynta impressed with how quickly the man sobered, maybe even a little jealous.

Tapping the file, Fynta ignored the blatant posturing at her back and focused on the shaky images of a dark room. “Is that flashing light a marquee?” Altan asked, brown eyes narrowed at the screen. 

Fynta hadn’t considered the lighting, she was too focused on the figures within the smoke-filled space. Sure enough, it flashed through a series of neon colors consistent with advert boards. “Whatever this is, it's been on Nar Shaddaa the entire time.” It was a small clue, but helped establish a timeline and sequence of events. If their quarry had been there from the beginning, then it was unlikely her small team needed to watch the spaceport. 

Fynta started to nudge Altan’s shoulder, then settled for a smile. “Good catch.”

The scene illuminated, triggering a hiss from Caldus, but Fynta was transfixed. “That looked like lightning.” A mountainous creature stepped into frame briefly, snarling words Fynta couldn’t translate, but she swore she felt the vibrations through the feed. Curses filled the audio, accompanied by blaster fire from multiple directions, then the feed cut out. 

They sat there staring at the blank screen. Thirty seconds of chaos and nightmare fuel, but no answers. Finally, Cladus voiced what they were all thinking. ”What the fuck was that?” 

“May I?” Altan asked, palm open and stretched towards Fynta. 

She relinquished the datapad and leaned closer to Altan while he scrolled manually through the footage. It meant she leaned against his shoulder, but the Togruta didn’t tense this time, so Fynta didn’t back up. She wanted to see what his eye had caught that hers missed. 

Altan’s finger slid slowly along the motion bar, pausing on the half revealed monstrosity. It looked like nothing Fynta had seen before. Yellow skin stretched across slabs of thick muscle that made Caldus look ordinary. It was the red glowing eyes and vicious looking fangs that captured Fynta’s attention, though. 

“I think…” Altan rubbed his mouth, the lines of his brows pulling together. “I think it's a Dashade.”

“A what?” Fynta and Caldus asked in unison. They shared a look, his irritated and hers probably irritating. 

Altan ignored them, transfixed by that blurry image. “An ancient creature on the verge of extinction.” 

Setting the footage aside, Altan collected his personal device and scrolled until he landed on what he was looking for. When he turned it towards them, Caldus leaned over Fynta, his breath a distraction against her neck. The Cathar had made his distaste for humans clear, but that didn’t stop her from appreciating the mountain of man at her back. 

“They are Force resistant,” Altan explained, pulling the datapad back to himself when neither of his companions looked at the information it displayed. “I remember reading about them a few years back when I was studying Sith Ancestry. Once a mighty warrior species turned assassins for the Sith.”

A low rumble vibrated against Fynta’s shoulder and she was sure it did not have the desired effect. Thankfully, Caldus didn’t seem to notice. “So they fucked around with a Dashade. Now it’s loose. Fantastic.” The Cathar chuffed and straightened, leaving Fynta chilled without his inhuman body heat. 

“It’s flesh and blood, just like anything else.” Fynta took a shaky breath and forced herself to focus on the real threat in the room instead of her hormones. Though, capturing the thing alive looked like a distant priority now. Dead with proof might have to be enough. 

”It’s also an endangered species,” Altan argued, his voice firming the same way it had when they discussed his skill with a rifle. “Whatever they did to him is not his fault.”

Fynta saw the heart of a boy, then. The young man who’d somehow remained gentle despite the way he’d come into his family. She risked a look at Caldus, and for once, didn’t find fury in those bright eyes. The Cathar ran a hand down his face and sighed. “It might not be its fault, but it still needs to be put down.”

“Why?” Altan jabbed a finger at the screen. “Because whoever created it says so?” 

Before either of them could answer, the Togruta shoved to his feet with unnatural grace. “I need to stretch my legs.”

Caldus started to stand, but Fynta elbowed his calf and shook her head. To her surprise, the grumpy Cathar flopped back onto the mattress. She waited until Altan was clear of the door before adding more. “Let him sort out his feelings. I have faith that he’ll do the right thing when the time comes.”

“He’s been like that since I’ve known him.” Caldus snorted. “Protect the ant hill, feed the strays, rescue the downtrodden. Guess I shouldn’t be surprised that it extends to monsters.”

Climbing to her feet, Fynta arched her back until her spine popped, then looked around. “Hey, where’d you put those beers?” She found them before Caldus could answer and snagged one from the bag next to his boot.

The Cathar settled against the headboard of his bed, golden eyes focusing on her with a predator's intensity. “Those are mine.” 

”Right,” Fynta smacked the top of the bottle against a ridge on her prosthetic with a grin. Then, she lifted it in cheers. “Thanks.”

A long breath escaped through Caldus’s nostrils as he produced a blade. Fynta lifted a brow at the open threat, then added the other when a block of foam appeared next. “Since I’m sober now, hand me one too.”

Fynta obliged, setting the bottle on the table that separated their beds. Long curls of foam drifted into the cloth spread across Caldus’s lap. Those massive hands with their sharp claws cradled the foam block with practiced care. Fynta wondered what it would become, and if he’d show her when it was finished.

Fynta must have hovered too long because Caldus slowly raised his eyes. “What?” 

“How much can you drink before you feel it?” Fynta propped her shoulder against the wall, pretending that she wasn’t more interested in what he was creating. If she asked directly, the stubborn Cathar would shut down and she’d never find out what it was.

Caldus must have read the challenge between Fynta’s words, because he flashed a few too many teeth to be friendly. “Don’t try it, human. You wouldn’t survive.”

Fynta renewed her grin, pleased to have an interaction that didn’t involve snarls—yet. “Don’t you know it’s instinctual for a Mandalorian to push her limits?” To prove her point, Fynta let her gaze slip down Caldus’s body. Even with his back to the wall, the man’s feet nearly reached the end of the bed. One of his thighs was as large as her waist, and fierfek, those arms.

A snarl rolled through Caldus, snapping Fynta’s attention up to his eyes. His teeth were bared, those burning embers filled with more rage than she deserved. Fynta was rarely innocent, but she hadn’t even begun to be a big enough pain in Caldus’s ass to warrant that glare. Then, the Cathar’s chest expanded, nostrils flaring in a deliberate inhale.

Shab.

The curse had barely rolled through her mind before the realization landed. Cathar senses were legendary, which meant there was a real chance that Caldus could scent exactly where her thoughts had wandered.

Caldus clicked his teeth, eyes narrowed. Finally, Fynta understood.

The tension between them pulled taut, nothing but the hum of the yacht’s engines to fill the silence. She took a step closer, and Caldus rumbled another warning. Testing her limits was fun, but this felt different. She wasn’t just annoying him, she was provoking. That had never been the plan.

Raising her hands, Fynta steadied her voice to hide the pounding of her heart. “Listen, we need to get this sorted before we get to Nar Shaddaa.”

Caldus didn’t hesitate. “Sort what out?” Judging by the Cathar’s tone, he understood and was being an ass. 

”This.” Fynta gestured between them, refusing to rise to the bait. “Whatever this animosity is.” Though, she supposed she couldn’t blame the man. Not if her suspicion was true and he could physically scent her moods. Fierfek, that was going to complicate things. 

Fynta continued before Caldus could speak. “Otherwise, someone is going to get hurt. With our luck, it’ll be Altan.”

Caldus was off his bed in a heartbeat, and Fynta nearly flinched back. She caught herself at the last moment and forced a glare up at the Cathar. She’d faced deadlier men than him. He wouldn’t get the satisfaction of seeing her unbalanced. Altan was a trigger though, that she filed away for later.

Chest heaving, Caldus straightened to full height, blade and foam block forgotten on his bed, the shavings he’d meticulously collected scattered across the floor. “I don’t trust humans,” he managed between gritted teeth. Fynta didn’t miss the symbolism of his discarded weapon either. He could kill her without one. She let that slide off her without acknowledgment. 

”That’s probably fair,” Fynta agreed, lifting an eyebrow in challenge when he leaned into her personal space. Each interaction gave her more of his measure. Caldus used his size and species to intimidate, trying to crowd her out. It was a brute tactic mostly likely learned at the hands of brutes.

Fynta took a step closer, intentionally invading the Cathar’s space to show that she wouldn’t be so easily cowed. “Are you willing to risk Altan’s safety over it?” When Caldus tipped his head, their faces now inched apart, Fynta continued. “We are going up against a veritable myth, something I didn’t even know existed until ten minutes ago. You and I need to be in sync, trust each other to do the job we were hired for. If you can’t manage that alongside a human, then sell your portion of the contract and go home.”

Finally, Caldus relaxed his posture, straightening without relinquishing the gap between them. Those same fingers that held the foam so carefully now curled into tight fists at his sides. He took a shaky breath.  “What do you suggest?”

Fynta wasn’t interested in a game of dominance, she just wanted to know if it all went to osik, he’d have her back. So, she took a step away, releasing the tension in her shoulders and legs so that her stance matched his. They entered an awkward stalemate of sorts. “Apart from being human, what am I doing to piss you off?”

That shabbing lip pulled back again, but the answer carried more honesty than Fynta expected. “The way you look at me, it reminds me of them.” 

Fynta had no concrete evidence who them was, but given the pieces of conversation she’d managed to drag out of the surly bastard she assumed his owners; human owners. Another piece of the puzzle dropped into place and she didn’t like the picture it built. Because the way she looked at him had nothing to do with possession, but appreciation of an impressive physique. 

“Shab.” The word slipped out, hot rage flooding Fynta’s system. Another growl started somewhere deep inside Caldus, but she spoke before he could interpret her outrage as pity. “Listen, I'm Mando'ade. I live shereshoy, and I have a type.”

The sound built, rolling up his chest. Caldus tensed his shoulders like he might throw a punch. “And what is that?”

”Strength,” Fynta answered simply, getting the word out before he escalated. She had no reason to be ashamed of her preferences. Male or female, Fynta had always been a sucker for anyone who could put her on her shebs in a fight. While she hadn’t tested it, Caldus fit that description. 

When the Cathar raised both brows, Fynta forced a grin. “I like people who can go toe to toe with me. Shereshoy. Any day could be my last, so I’m going to live like it is.” When Caldus opened his mouth, Fynta held up a hand. “That said, I’ll do my best to rein in the flirting for you.”

The steady rumble stilled, but Caldus's eyes narrowed. Fynta took another step back and lifted her hands where he could see them, yielding this particular argument. “You are your own man, Caldus. I won’t let anyone take that from you.”

”Not even you,” Caldus spat, though Fynta thought his tone might have carried a little less malice.

With a smile that echoed none of the lecherous thoughts she’d entertained before, Fynta thrust her hand into the space between them. “Especially me. Be’mev, vod.”

Caldus snapped his mouth shut when the door opened to reveal Altan. He had his face buried in the datapad as he walked, oblivious to the tension between her and his brother. With a huff, Caldus gripped Fynta’s forearm in a truce, then flopped back onto his bed and collected the knife and block. She called it as much of a win as she was likely to get.

“How do you think it got out?” Altan asked as he wove through the piles of electronics he’d left behind.

Fynta picked up his line of thought as a sort of peace offering to Caldus. He clearly didn’t want to discuss whatever brewed between them, so Fynta shoved it to the side for when it became a problem again. “Did anyone else notice the lightning? That reeks of Sith.”

”But were they attacking it or helping it escape?” Caldus added. Now that he wasn’t snarling like a deranged akk hound, his timbre had settled back into that lovely combination of gritty calm. Fynta forced herself not to think about it.

Instead, she settled into her professional hunter persona and pretended to be a responsible adult.  “We can’t rule either out, which means once we land, no one goes out without their armour.” The last line she aimed at Altan, who glanced up long enough to nod. 

“I’ve been monitoring Nar Shaddaa’s local news network and there haven’t been any instances of monster sightings.” Altan returned his attention to the screen, folding himself back onto the floor. “You’d think a Dashade would stand out.”

“You’ll understand when we get there,” Fynta laughed and settled into one of the chairs with her duffle. There was a small folding table behind it, and she set about arranging her solvents to begin maintenance. Caldus had given her blasters a rushed cleaning at the range before they left Dromund Kaas, but Fynta wanted to make sure they were ready when she needed them. Knowing there was possibly a Sith involved changed the way they needed to approach this mission. “Have either of you fought a Sith?”

As Fynta settled into the familiar rhythm of dismantling her weapons, Caldus answered without looking up from his carving. From stolen glances, all Fynta could make out was that it was cylindrical. “Some religious nuts on Rishi are as close as we’ve seen. They usually keep to their part of the island though.” 

“Shea had that run in with a couple last year,” Altan added. “Half the jungle was on fire before they went down. Luckily, it was monsoon season.”

“Oh! You’re awake!” came a sweet voice. 

Wild was startled from his thoughts as he looked up and saw a woman with red hair. He couldn’t help but stare at her. Must not have realized that he stared for a long time because he noticed the woman become a bit awkward.

“Do… Do you remember me?” she tentatively asked.

Wild just nodded his head. He noticed the woman become ecstatic with relief. “Where…” he was taken aback with his young voice. It had slipped his mind that he was currently young. Oh Hylia, he was young still… How was he going to explain this to her? Where were the others? Were they hurt? And that thing… Where was that thing? All thoughts were soon halted when the woman spoke once more.

“Wild, honey? You are okay,” Malon softly spoke. “You are in my home. My husband and the other boys are out and about in the ranch. Link actually came in last night and had you held in his arms. I was given a run down of what has happened. A lot to take in at first really. Before I asked him to tell me once more, I had him take you to our room so I could help patch you up.”

Wild looked at himself. He barely noticed the bandages he had on his arms and legs and the one on his face. As he took in the bandages, another thought came up. The room… he was in Time’s and Malon’s room. Time’s and Malon’s room! His small hands covered his face as the realization set in. Did he kick out Time and Malon out of their room? Questions and scenarios were whirring in his mind and Malon realized he was deep in his thoughts.

“Hey now. You have nothing to worry about. My husband and I actually slept well in our bed. Not that there was an issue!” Malon softly shut the door and walked on over to her bed as she sat on the edge, next to the mass hidden under the blankets. “Aw, sweetie. No need to be embarrassed. You actually aren’t the first to have shared a space in our bed. You fit just right between the both of us.” Malon knew she wasn’t really helping out the poor boy, but she couldn’t help it. Having someone between them felt… nice. And she wasn’t lying about Wild not being the first to have a spot on the bed. A niece of Ingo’s actually was the first one a couple years ago.

“That’s still so embarrassing. I am a grown man. To be sleeping between a couple…”

Malon just stared at the small mass under the blanket. She couldn’t help but laugh, “Aren’t you getting hot under there? And hey,” she tugged on the blanket and waited for a bit until baby blue eyes finally peeked from out the blanket. “It’s nothing to be ashamed of. It’s like when you share a bed with your companions. Besides, With your current situation, it didn’t even cross our minds. Helped me not to hog the bed, as my husband puts it.” A small laugh was shared between the both of them. That did seem to lift the embarrassment on Wild’s features.

“Wait… I remembered that you had like another room or two. Why bring me to this one?” Wild questioned.

“Well, it was my first thought to have you brought here. I have my medical supplies here. And actually, you didn’t let go of my husband’s tunic well until he sat on the bed laid on it with you next to him. Once you were all bandaged up, Twilight tried to take you to a guest room with him but you ended up whining in your sleep that you didn’t quiet down until you were back in my husband’s arms.” A giggle left her lips as she watched Wild duck back into the covers.

“Kill me, please,” came the muffled reply. “Did the others hear me?”

“I don’t know, sweetheart. But you didn’t hear this from me, with you holding on to Link, my husband, he was just so happy, especially when you didn’t want to let go. Kicked out our, uh… ranch hand when he was adamant on taking you to the room with him.”

Wild giggled at that thought of Twilight getting kicked out. Thinking about Time, the giggling soon died down into silence. Memories of yesterday came to his mind. The monster of yesterday took on Time’s appearance. There was nothing amiss, even the scar and markings were accurate, all with the exception of the voice. He shivered as the voice replayed in his mind. He could not decipher what the thing had spoken. But by Hylia, he felt pure, unadulterated fear. Before he could even pursue the anxious thought further, a gentle pat brought him back to the present.

“Hey, you’re okay,” Malon reassured softly. “Once you were settled in, Link filled in me once more. Darling, I cannot imagine what you experienced through. Would… would you like to talk about it?”

Wild just shook his head. He wanted to laugh. A hero, afraid of a monstrosity such as that being from yesterday. He had seen creatures more fearsome, and yet here he was, afraid to even share the sight he saw. Maybe it was because the thing took the formation of someone familiar? Maybe. But today would not be the day he would share.

As if any more embarrassment could be added to this lovely morning, his stomach decided to growl. Wild could only clutch down on his stomach as embarrassment burned at the tips of his ears and Malon just laughed. She gently guided him off the bed and helped him put on his tunic. He was red faced by the time he came out of the room. How could he have forgotten where his arms and head came out of. He was already hating this and he was just wishing any of the goddesses just whisk him away. 

Climbing down the stairs, Wild tried to compose himself as he heard soft chattering filter through. The smell of breakfast wafted through his nose and he couldn’t help but speed up his descent down the stairs. 

Just as Wild reached the last step, he had a small pause as he took in the people in the room. Chatter stopped as all eyes looked to the two who entered. Wild began to fidget as he realized Time was staring at him. He took a step back only to bump into Malon. A reassuring hand was placed on his shoulders and he looked back at Malon who gave him a comforting smile. 

“Good morning, Wild.” Time gently greeted.

This was the voice he knew. The familiarity and the warmth he heard was the Time he knew. It wasn’t that cold, malicious voice. It was him. Truly it was him. Before he even registered what he was doing. Wild’s legs just ran and his arms became outstretched as he slammed himself into the older man. It did take Time by surprise as he just received the young boy with a resounding oof.

Wild told himself he wasn’t going to cry. And he didn’t. He just had a sniffle here and there. He also took note of the silence and he just decided to ignore it. He sought comfort and he received it. His pride can take a few hits anyway.

Everyone looked at the pair with delighted sadness. They were all glad to see their now youngest member doing just fine. But the way they saw Wild clutched to Time as if for dear life confirmed that something indeed had happened to their dearest friend. 

Malon was deeply touched at the display. Just the way her husband did not hesitate to comfort the child, just made her heart flutter. He truly was a gentle and kind soul. And a great father, whether he realizes it or not, she thought to herself. “Oh dear, such a warm atmosphere here today in this kitchen. But I sure am starving. Would one of you boys care to come help me?”

Hyrule volunteered and Wild was about to follow along, until Warriors called out, “Hey, short stuff, where’s my hug? Shouldn’t a dashing hero, such as I, get one before you go?”

Everyone knew it was in all good fun. Wild just sent a small glare his way and did a gagging noise as he disappeared into the kitchen.

Legend snickered, “Who would want to hug you and your stinkin’ leg anyway?”

Warriors just sent a kick under the table as it nailed Legend’s shin. A utteral cry of pain came from the target and a small kicking war was about to ensue until Time sent a disapproving stare at the same time the kitchen door swung open. Both Hyrule and Malon each bore two plates while Wild bore one. He insisted he carry two, but with a gentle reminder from Malon of his current situation, he relented to just one. But it was perfect either way. Wild wanted to serve the plate to Twilight first anyway. That’s why he agreed to just one. 

Taking the plate from the boy, Twilight noticed the silent apology that shined within the child’s eyes. Having a soft smile adorning his face, Twilight just patted his head and thanked him as Wild bounded away to the kitchen to retrieve one more plate. As everyone finally settled down, Wild squeezed his way between Four and Twilight and began digging into his plate with such fervor. Twilight had to tell the child to slow down, lest he choke on his food. Of course, Wild just rolled his eyes and exaggerated his slow movements only to pick up the speed once more. 

After breakfast, everyone did their part in cleaning up. While Wild was not within earshot, Time addressed the others that a meeting was to be called and that it was best Wild not be present. Malon understood that she would be filled in if necessary and thus took it upon herself to have the child preoccupied. 

“Oh Wild, sweetie, why won’t you come and help me feed the animals? I need a big, strong boy to help a poor, old woman like me.”

Giggling, Wild took the bait, “You’re not old! And I will definitely help out, because that’s what heroes do.”

And off both of them went to do what was needed. 

Time couldn’t help but look after them with a tender smile.

“So the old man does have tender feelings, rather than just stoic ones,” Warriors teased. 

Time wanted to throw a glare at him. But his mouth betrayed him as a small smile took over. Time received a pat on the back as all the others shared smiles all around. 

And it stayed like that for a couple seconds until Warriors became stoic and everyone else followed suit. 

“So that… murky thing. Twi, I know you said some things about it last night.”

Twilight looked at Warriors as he nodded after his statement. “As far as we can tell, that inky shadow is not just a shadow. The consistency was goop-like. The creature had the tints of red and it was capable of speech, albeit it was broken and slow.”

Everyone else was in deep thought. Minds were processing as they all tried to picture the hideous being. 

“Wait,” Four spoke, “Didn’t you say that it burned you?”

Thinking, Twilight nodded. “Yes. whatever it was, it burned. Anything plant life it came into contact withered and died. When I slashed at it with my sword, some of its… substance landed on me and caused small burns to occur. Luckily, it wasn’t too bad. I do not want to imagine how it would feel if it prolonged its touch.” Another thought came to Twilight in that instant. “That thing was coming after him. Do you think it was just after him? Or is there another reason?”

Time was pensive. “I know he doesn’t want to speak about it. But we all know he saw something. When I stepped into the clearing, he was filled with such terror, it was awful to see. Putting at least some clues together, that thing must have done something that caused him to fear me.”

“And he won’t have witnessed that if only I had made sure he was with us.”

“Twilight, no.” Sky interjected. “We were all caught off guard. By the goddesses, it was you who was able to find him first before that thing managed to get him.”

Warriors directed his statement towards Twilight. “I told you that you have no need to be so hard on yourself. You did what you could to get to him back and you did. The only thing he got was some trauma and simple cuts and bruises. We know he seems to be doing okay for the meantime. But you did it Twi. You helped find him first and helped bring him and Time to safety.”

“I should have been faster to finish the bastard off,” Twilight grumbled.

He received a pat on his shoulder from the old man in affirmation to what Warriors had said. “We all need to be vigilant on this child, Twilight-”

“Problem child is more like it,” Legend mumbled.  

Another small smile took place on Time’s face as he heard Legend’s remark. “Yes, this problem child. We all know that we will do everything to take care of Wild. No one or nothing will cause him harm. There is no need for you to carry the burden all by yourself.”

“Besides,” continued Warriors, “I’m sure he wouldn’t want you to be fawning over him like some child.”

“He is a child, you idiot,” Legend said as he rolled his eyes. 

“Which does bring me to my next concern,” Wind said. “I know it seems uncanny for me to say this, but I do not want Wild to partake in any battles. I am sure he can hold his own, in terms of defense, but I do not see it right for him to fight in battles against monsters and the like.” Wind felt it foreign to say that. It’s not that he doesn’t believe in Wild’s capabilities, but he thinks in terms of his sister. Sure defensive maneuvers are always in handy, but he would not want her to fight in battles. He can do it for her, for his family. So why would Wild be any different? He knew Wild was the one to do the blow to the creature. But he also knew Wild had difficulties in handling the sword he had. He would help protect the child like a big brother would. 

“I do see your point, Wind.” Four answered. “While a small knife or dagger can be used for defensive purposes, I do not deem it to be appropriate for him to wield a weapon in his current age.”

Hyrule was thinking. Wild was pretty capable of handling himself. He doesn’t know if the rune watered down his abilities, but he understood what Wind was saying. He was not in the condition to carry out battles. This was a child, for Hylia’s sake. And it was a good thing that Wild was not here. He definitely was not going to be happy to hear that this choice was not made with him present. Maybe he can discuss with Four about making a small dagger for the boy as an apology. Of course, it will just be between him and Four.

As the small impromptu meeting came to an end, Wild burst in laughing with Malon in tow.

“I thought that cucco was never going to leave me alone!” came the small reply from the boy.

“He did seem to take a liking to your bed head after all,” Malon replied. “And that untamable hair does seem so cozy I could probably use it as a napping place.” Malon was about to reach down and ruffle Wild’s hair as he shrieked in merriment and managed to dodge it without fail.

Warrior took notice on how Wild expertly dodged the hand that threatened to come down upon him. This kid still has it in him, he thought.

Having his head protected, Wild looked to the others as they stared at him. He cleared his throat and smoothed down his hair, only to discover a lone cucco feather lodged within his locks of hair.

“Uh… what’s going on here? Did I miss something?” the child questioned. 

As everyone was thinking of something to dissuade the wild child from presisting and discovering of their little meeting, Malon stepped in. “I told my husband to discuss with the boys on what chores would be assigned to who and sleeping arrangements.”

“Uh, yup!” Wind confirmed.

“And it has been decided that you will be on feeding duty with me or Malon” Twilight added.

Everyone in the room thanked the goddesses that Wild took the excuse wholeheartedly and with such contentment. Of course he would be helping. He would not be idle and let everyone do something when he knew he could do stuff. And with that, he was satisfied. He missed the appreciative look Time threw to his beloved wife. Goddess was she a blessing to his life. 

“Ah,” Malon spoke once more, “I told our guest here that I have the perfect set of clothing for him. And if you would be such a dear, my love, please get them for me down from the attic.”

Time’s eye widen. No. She could not have been thinking about that clothing. She wouldn’t. Seeing the smirk she held, she most definitely would. Why in the good grace of Din would she want those clothes? He cursed himself for not getting rid of them like he told himself he would.

Upon coming to the dusty chest, Time couldn’t help but cringe at the poor fate that would befall the poor boy. He could tell his wife that the clothing could no longer be wearable.  But would she believe him? Goddess, why would she? Her reasoning was that one day someone else could wear them. He couldn’t hold back a slight blush when she suggested that.

Opening the chest, Time was hit with nostalgia. This was the outfit that defined him as the little boy in green. The outfit accompanied him for most of his journey; in both the good and the bad. Lifting the green shirt, he saw some wear and tear. Nothing that could be fixed and not deemed unwearable. His fingers treaded lightly on the fabric and he felt raises on where the fabric was patched. Maybe a visit to the forest will help restore the fabric. He was told as a boy that the waters of the forest helped revitalize the clothing, even going as far to adjust the size if they began to fit a bit too tight. Maybe he could dunk Wild in it. That thought made Time laugh to himself. He took out the rest of the outfit and frowned. Was he always this small? It was a bit of a shock to see how small the outfit was. 

Soft footsteps brought Time out of reminiscing when he saw his wife poke her head into the attic.

“I was beginning to think you were destroying them,”  she lightly laughed.

A small huff left him, “I should have done that before you came in.”

“Darling, I know that these bring up some nostalgia, both good and bad, but remember these were the clothes I saw you in when we first met.”

“Ah yes,” Time closed his eye in remembrance, “I stuck out like a sore thumb. It was why you singled me out.”

“Well, you did aid me, fairy boy” Malon taunted. “Besides, you looked adorable in green. Helped me to single you out when you were in the town square. When I saw you years later, the green just jumped out to me. Sure I couldn’t remember your face, but-”

“My dashing looks stood out to you,” Time finished.

A laugh was shared between the both of them. Malon took Time’s hands in her own, holding onto the clothing as well.

“He will be okay, Link. He is in safe hands. Whatever that thing was, it will not prevail in bringing harm. Now, let’s get him these clothes. He will be as dashing as you were when we first met,” she giggled. “Although, I think we will need to alter it to fit,” she said as she examined the cloth.

“No need. I think a trip to the forest is in order. I was told of tales that the waters in the forest revitalized the clothes of a kokiri. I suppose they were true. I never had issues with my clothing.” Time rubbed his hands against the fabric once more.

“Well, we should get these clothes to the little rascal. I am sure everyone is waiting. I guess I am going to have to tell them I had to stop you from destroying them.” Malon immediately snatched the clothing from her husband and booked it out of the attic before he could even put a word in.

When they both finally reached the living area, the clothes were present to Wild. Twilight had to clear his throat in order to prevent Wild from turning his nose from it. Wild, of course, would not be ungrateful, but it was a lot of green. His eyes strayed to the cap that was neatly folded on top of the tunic. Wild made a face at it. His older mind was asking why would he make a face at the cap when he himself didn’t mind them. But the child within rejected the hat. He did not like hats and it wasn’t part of a uniform anyways. So, in essence, they couldn’t force him to wear it. 

Wild thanked them and meekly asked Twilight to come with him, just in case he needed the help. Not that he didn’t, but it was just in case. 

Stepping from out of the room and following Twilight to where the others were at, Wild shyly stepped out. The fabric felt cool and there was a faint scent of forest rather than musk, which greatly pleased him. Everything was a bit big on him. Oh great goddess, why he had to be such a small child. The waist belt did help him hold the clothing together. When Malon presented him with a mirror, he could not help but stare at himself in amazement. Small hands touched his unmarred skin. He could not believe his scars were no longer there. And he felt saddened. His scars were a part of his identity. With them gone, he felt foreign with his own reflection. 

A reassuring hand appeared in his reflection. It was Twilight’s own as he looked down at him with a sincere smile. Looking back at his own reflection, the cap that sat on his head drew him out from lamenting his loss. 

“I look so stupid with this cap,” Wild said as he pulled it off from his head. His hair became more untamed with the action. He sighed in exasperation as small hands combed through his hair.

Four smugly replied, “If only you kept that cap on. It would have kept that crazy hair hidden.”

Wild couldn’t help but stick his own tongue out in response as he peeked from the side of the mirror. Baby blue eyes soon landed on Warriors. He realized how intent Warriors was looking at him. Did Warriors not realize it?

Wild began to fiddle the hem of the green tunic. Sensing his uncomfort, Warrior snapped out of his stupor.

“Uh sorry… You look great, Wild!” Warriors assured him. “You just remind me of an excellent fighter I once knew. His son was a spitting image of him,” he lied.

“Good to know. I was beginning to think you didn’t like it or something.”

“Nah, you’re looking pretty good Wild. Of course, not as good looking as me,” Warriors added.

That earned him a scoff. Warriors was glad when the attention of everyone else was taken by Time who started to divulge his plans to visit a forest for tomorrow and what not. Warriors honestly wasn’t paying much attention. His focus was still on Wild. He obviously made sure not to make the boy be aware he was watching him, he would let his eyes wander elsewhere and hum his approval as everyone else pitched in their ideas to vist the market square tomorrow.

As the small meeting concluded, Legend pulled Wild aside and tied small bands around the shorts to hold them in place. Despite the top fitting loose, it still stayed on and in no need of immediate adjustment. Turning him loose, ran to Twilight as both boys went out to feed the livestock once more before the day was done.

With the absence of Twilight and Wild, everyone else went to do what they were required to do around the ranch. As Warriors was left to his thoughts, he went back to Wild. He cursed himself for making his gawking obvious. He was just too into his appearance. He thanked whoever helped him come up with the excuse. Wild did bear similarities to him, but it was just coincidence, right? Unless… he would have to shove that out of his mind for now. He cannot afford the others to question him at the moment. 

—

As the day came to a close, a bath was drawn as everyone took their turns. Wild made it clear to everyone that he was in control of bathing himself and needed no help in handing him anything. Afterwards, everyone settled down for dinner and a homey atmosphere reigned within the house as lively chatter and the clattering of utensils sounded throughout. 

When it was finally time for bed, Malon teased Wild and offered their bed once more as Wild just flat out rejected the offer with embarrassment etched on his features. He decided to just share a pelt with Twilight instead as said hero sent a triumphant smug to the old man. 

As both boys began to situate themselves on the pelt, Twilight was about to bring Wild close until the young boy kicked his leg out.

“This is a space barrier. You cannot cross it,” said the young boy.

Laughing to himself, Twilight responded, “There is no shame in a simple cuddle, Wild. It’s like when you hug Wolfie.”

Wild just rolled his eyes, “Well that’s diffint. Stop making fun of me. I’m going to sleep in the corner and make it seem like you hogged the whole space.”

Oh this was priceless. The grumpy face Wild had just did not help his situation. Twilight could only lift his hands in surrender and scoot back a bit. Wild just grunted and turned his back to the older boy. 

“Aw, Wild. No good night for me?” Twilight amusedly questioned.

“I hate you right now. Good night.”

“Okay, okay. That was good enough for me. But just know that if you end up on top of me again, it wasn’t my fault.”