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Chapter Text

"Link, you are being unreasonable!" The god yelled as the hero stormed through the woods, the mask holding Fierce's soul clutched firmly in his grip, forcing the god to follow.

"Of course you say that!" Link yelled back, rounding on the god. "You're trying to cover your ass!"

Fierce growled, his fist balling up at his sides as he glared down at the hero.

Breathing in deeply, Fierce forced his growing anger away. Taking on a calmer tone, he tried again. "Link, I do not know what you and your princess spoke about, or what was said in reference to me. I cannot defend myself without context, nor can I set the record straight. And it is very difficult to remain level headed while you yell. If you could just provide more information we could settle this calmly." Fierce crossed his arms, forcing his shoulders to relax. He didn't need to show the angry teen how fucking worried he was making the god.

Link glared up at Fierce, his hands shaking, knuckles white around the mask he once held with awe and care. "I was informed, that you're a fucking, demon!"

Fierce recoiled, his brows furrowing. "That's a lie!" Fierce sputtered out. He was so confused- a demon!? Him?! He wasn't anything even close to a demon.

"Goddess I can't believe I let you manipulate me for so long! Getting me to fight in battles, one after another-"

"I never forced your hand! The battles you were in were of your own volition, I was encouraging you while you were on the battle field! Would you rather I harrold your failures while you fought?!" Fierce yelled over the hero, frustration flooding his voice.

"You only wanted me to fight so you could store up power to break free!" Link continued without missing a beat, the god's words falling on deaf ears as his voice continued to rise, his feet slamming into the ground as he paced.

Fierce’s ears lowered as he watched the boy he once considered, still considered, a friend, fling accusations at him.

There was nothing Fierce could do. His fate was sealed. Link was going to throw him away.

"Link- sprite, please…" The god, indomitable and fierce, whispered, his eyes becoming wet as he watched his student. Link paused, shock briefly flooding his eyes as they locked with the god's. "If you are going to toss me aside, put me somewhere where I can not bother you anymore. Then child, for the fond memories we did share, please place me where there are at least people. I can't-" Fierce's voice broke with a sob, memories of thousands- hundreds of thousands- of years, trapped and alone flooding back. "I cannot be alone again…"

Link stared the Fierce Deity for several seconds, his shoulders lowering as a glimmer of uncertainty flitted across his gaze. But then it was gone, drowned out by fury.

"So you can sink your claws into someone else!?"

"NO!"

"Yeah, 'no'. That's my answer." Chucking the mask to the side, Link glared at Fierce. "I'm not going to give you an opportunity to manipulate anyone else."

For the first time since his imprisonment, tears spilled down the Fierce Deity's cheeks. His gaze firmly on the mask, the accursed item that held and trapped his soul discarded in the grass beside a tree sprout.

He was going to be alone again… His friend- goddesses it was just like last time. Again he was being betrayed by a friend.

Turning as Link stomped past him, Fierce followed him until his soul screeched, forcing his feet to halt as the mask's grip tightened, trapping the god in its radius. "Link please!" Fierce screamed, hot, boiling tears flowing down his face as the hero continued walking, not even looking back as he sentenced the god to a horrible fate. "Don't do this Link! Please! If you wish to sentence me to another millennia in isolation, then have a shred of mercy and kill me instead! Death is merciful compared to this."

Link's gait stalled, the boy briefly pausing before he shook his head, his feet slamming against the ground with more force as he left.

-

Fierce thinks that he cried more in those following few days than he had in his entire long life. Trying to use every ounce of power he had to break the mask, break his tether to it, break its radius, make it bigger, anything. Nothing worked, his efforts resulting in nothing but delirium and sickness from magic fatigue.

Several more days were spent trying to reason with himself, to find the silver lining, an explanation for Link to have done this. Maybe there was a creature Link learned about that could use his power, so he needed to get Fierce out of the picture. Maybe the mask truly did have a corruptive quality to it. Maybe Link was coming back, and he’d just put Fierce there, in the middle of nowhere, for safekeeping. (That was weak even to his own ears. The hero wasn't coming back.)

-

Fierce didn't know how long it had been anymore. Leaves covered the mask, moss and lichen claiming the surface as their homes, coating most of his likeness in a fuzzy layer of green. He thought a couple seasons had passed? Perhaps? It was hard to keep track of things. It didn't help that Fierce was so tired, the weather and earth sapping away his energy and strength as his prison withered away under the elements. The wood softening and colors dulling to near invisibility.

If his head hadn’t been full of a lithologic, emotionally dull cotton Fierce would have thought that he should probably be going mad with loneliness at this point. That the lack of human connection should be affecting him more, but… Golden Three, all that sounded like a lot of effort, caring felt like something someone simply made up.

Yeah, no. Fierce would rather not- sleeping sounded a lot better, even if he dreamed of nothing, the lands he’d created in his dreams breaking free from him several years prior, able to exist and live without him to dream up new things for it.

Sometimes while he slept, on rare occasions, he was stirred from his dreamless slumber by voices, mortals passing his prison unknowingly. When he was first left he used to call to them, doing everything in his power to get them to notice. They never did, always oblivious to his presence as they walked through the growing forest.

At some point he stopped trying. Simply watching, uncaring as they passed, more annoyed than anything that they disturbed his sleep. And then he stopped getting woken up, his body getting used to the sounds and drowning them out. That was nice. He far preferred sleep over watching mortals pass.

-

Fierce’s ears twitched as the quiet thudding of boots stirred him from his dreamless sleep. Weird. He thought he’d gotten over this.

Slowly Fierce forced his eyes open. The god lazily looked around his small area. It was probably a deer, or maybe a wolf. Nothing sentient, never anything that could free him.

The Fierce Deity's eyes shot wide. For once in what felt like a millennia, emotions stronger than a weak breeze flooded his soul. A skeletal figure stepped into the clearing, a red eye boring into Fierce's sitting form.

The spirit, if it could breath, breath hitched, its bony hands clenching into fists as it stared at him.

Fierce slowly got to his feet, twitching slightly as he ripped the moss living on his frame away from the tree. Rolling his shoulders he poked at a patch of moss on his arm before grabbing and ripping it off, dropping it to the ground, all while keeping his gaze fixed on the skeleton.

It shifted on its feet, like it didn't know what to say, or was waiting for Fierce to start. Fine.

"State your business, spirit." Fierce's voice was scratching, grating through his throat from decades of misuse.

That seemed to jolt the stal out of whatever trance it was in. "I've come to apologize."

The Fierce Deity, the god of battle, imprisoned by those he’d thought of as friends, stared- no, glared at the spirit whose voice was eerily similar to the boy that had left him here.

"And what use do I have with words? Words cannot free me from this prison, a dead man cannot set me free. Why come here after so long?" Fierce scoffed, crossing his arms.

Link stayed quiet for several seconds, staring through the god. Eventually he lowered his eye to the ground and broke the silence. "I finally understand what I did to you."

Fierce stiffened, his ear twitching as his brow furrowed.. Was Link… Also trapped?

"It took me a short life and lengthening death to finally beat it into my thick skull, but I understand the severity of my crime against you now." Link's hands trembled as he folded them, gripping his skinless arms tightly. "I know that it means nothing, but I wish I could free you, break that damn mask and let your divinity soar with the other gods. But I can't. My impact on the mortal plane is as great as yours, Fierce."

Fierce blinked at Link for several seconds. Was he missing something? He- why would Link apologize after so long? What clicked with him now that he was dead? "Link-"

"Don't call me that. I neither deserve nor want that name. I'm merely a decrepit shade of that man."

'Interesting.' Fierce softened his gaze, relaxing his shoulders. "Good. I didn't care for that man. So tell me Shade, why mend bridges now?"

Shade's breathless chest hitched, the spirit bowing over himself as tears leaked from his empty socket.

Fierce froze, his body stiffening as he watched his old friend cry. What was he supposed to do? Goddesses! Fierce didn't comfort people! "Uh-"

"I can't bear the weight of my crimes against you anymore, they haunt me, eat me alive like I'm dying all over again, I can't- I need to apologize, have to at least try to make this right!"

Fierce shifted on his feet, he didn't like seeing Shade, even if he was the reason for his suffering, so upset, eaten up with guilt. "Shade," Fierce started, walking over to the shorter man. Placing his hand under Shade's chin the god lifted his skull allowing their eyes to meet. "It is alright. I…" Fierce paused, searching his soul for what it truly felt. He couldn't say this and not mean it.

"I forgive you."

Shade immediately backed away, shaking his head. "No, no. I don't deserve that. You have suffered for thousands of years and will suffer for an untold amount more, you cannot  just forgive me like it was nothing."

The Fierce Deity watched Shade for several seconds, before responding. "I am a god, I'll do as I please. Besides- the guilt, consuming and eating you alive? That is punishment enough. I forgive you, and there is nothing you can do to change that." Fierce smiled, flashing his slight fangs at the spirit.

"I- alright… Can… can I stay until I can't?"

"Of course." Fierce responded without missing a beat, beaming. Golden Three! Company!!! "Wait," Fierce paused as he turned to go sit down. "What do you mean by 'until I can't'? What has befallen you, Shade?"

Shade let out a long weary sigh. "My soul is tethering itself to dungeons forming across the land. Soon I, like you to the mask, will be trapped in those few locations."

"Ah…" Fierce continued to sit down, responding awkwardly. They truly were in the same boat… how the hell did the Hero of Time manage to tether his soul to dungeons? That were still forming? "How does one manage such a feat?" Fierce asked as Shade sat down beside him. "How does one, 'tether their soul' to dungeons? And why?"

Shade chuckles, his bones rattling quietly. "If you think that's something, let me tell you about how I can't move on."

Chapter Text

For the second time since his imprisonment Fierce woke up to someone walking nearby, which he really should be sleeping though.

A man stepped into Fierce's territory, eyes full of a faded youth and a hardness Fierce recognized. A fighter. Warrior even, if the sword and shield strapped to his back were any indication. Fierce narrowed his eyes. Darkness coiled around the hylian, by something hanging over his heart and within his soul. It was strong, leaving dark marks on his face, but not malice, nor Null. What dwelled in this mortal was peaceful, calm, ready for a fight but not hungering for one. Twili magic then- interesting, Light dwellers didn't normally use that kind of magic.

The man paused, looking around the clearing, his ears twitching. Oh? Fierce shifted, sitting up, his interest peaked. This mortal was sensing something. A tiny spark of hope ignited in Fierce's heart.

"What in the realms…" Fierce’s eyes widened, watching as the man was enveloped by dark magic, then as the magic faded a wolf stood in his place. "What a strange mortal."

The wolf's head whipped around looking at Fierce, making the god jump.

The beast stared at the god, tilting his head in confusion before boofing at Fierce.

The Fierce Deity stayed still for several seconds, his mind reeling. This- this couldn't be happening. After so long? Fierce finally encountered another who could see him?

"Hello." Fierce's voice stung his throat as he croaked out the greeting, desperately praying with no real hope that the wolf could in fact see him and it wasn't just a fluke.

"Boof!" The man-wolf responded happily, wagging his tail.

Fierce's breath hitched, his eyes widening. "You can see me…"

The wolf nodded emphatically, barking at the god again.

"Can- Would you, pardon- retrieve the mask located here?" Walking over to where his prison was Fierce pointed down at it. "I would retrieve it myself, but I cannot affect the mortal plane"

The wolf blinked at Fierce before nodding and again becoming covered in Twili magic. Standing up as a man the Hylian walked over to where Fierce pointed. He dug around for several minutes, dirt collecting under his nails as he searched through the decomposing leaves until he could eventually grab the uncovered mask, brushing grime off it as he stood.

"I was wonderin' where the smell of magic was comin' from. Been botherin' me for a bit, glad to finally know. I'm Link by the way, if ya were wonderin'." The man smiled in Fierce's direction, flashing small fangs.

'Link?' As in the reincarnated hero Link? That Link?!

Yep. Fierce nodded to himself as he walked around the hero. That was a triforce on his hand. Goddesses, Fierce's luck was finally looking up, only took a couple… however long it's been, but who's counting. His luck was looking up now.

Walking closer to the man, Fierce leaned down to speak in his ear, hedging his bets that the strange hylian would be able to hear him.

"My soul is trapped in that mask."

"Oh!" The hylian recoiled, rubbing his ear. "That's weird, soundin' like your whisperin' in my ear."

'Because I am.' "I was once friends with a hero, like yourself, but people whispered in his ears, told him lies about the origins of the magic that resides in me. He was convinced to throw my mask- my prison away. I've been trapped in this forest since."

“That’s… horrible.” Link replied, his ears twitching as his eyes narrowed. “There hasn't been another hero, for, for… well since the Hero of Time I suppose, 'n my ancestor ain't been livin' for a thousand years or so."

Now it was Fierce's turn to recoil. 'Ancestor?!' This was Shade's descendant?! Shade had children?!

“No one should be trapped like that, and for so long.” Link huffed shifting his weight from leg to leg. “No creature, evil- or good, deserves to be trapped for eternity.” Glaring down at the mask, Link’s ears twitched rapidly. Was he upset? Before he gripped the ancient mask with both hands, his claws digging groves into the soft wood.

And then a flood of feelings rushed over Fierce making him double over as air- oh Golden Three air!!! Filled his lungs, the slight coolness of it burning his throat, the sensation nearly brought tears to the god’s eyes. He hadn't breathed in a millennia, not since he was imprisoned. He didn't realize how much he missed something so trivial.

"Goddesses thank yo-" Fierce was tackled, his head slamming against the ground as the air was knocked out of his lungs, a sword planting itself against his throat. 'What?'

"I said you didn't deserve to be imprisoned for eternity, not that you deserved to live." Link glared down at Fierce, his eyes narrowing into slits, full of mistrust. "How do I know you weren't lyin'?"

Fierce coughed, gagging against the blade pressed on his throat. 'Damn it! That forsaken mask!' Fierce mentally growled, trying and failing to summon his strength, to conjure up any form of magic. But for all the time the mask was out in the elements, his soul out in the elements, Fierce's energy and strength were being drained. To the point that now, even a mortal was about to take him down easily.

"Why should I let you live? A hero left ya out here, he had to have had a reason. N' you said yourself that you got dark magic. From what I've seen most types of that are bad."

The Fierce Deity let out a weary sigh, closing his eyes, his head hitting the ground as he relaxed his neck. "I don't know. I'm god of blood, and death.They follow my every step. A god born from darkness, a black sheep amongst the holy… There isn't any reason for you to spare my life. The world might even be better for it."

Link stared down at the god for several seconds before pulling his sword away, sheathing it as he moved off of Fierce with a sigh.

The hero offered him his hand. "I suppose I can relate. Fell into darkness ta save my kingdom, now everyone but my family views me as a monster, cast me aside like my ancestor cast you aside."

Fierce stilled, his eyes narrowing before he took Link's hand and let the hero help him to his feet.

Stepping back, Link motioned to the forest around them. "Well, hope life treats ya well from here on. If you want you can stay here in Ordon, if you don't cause any trouble. I'll fuckin' kill you if ya cause my family harm."

Fierce hummed as he looked around the area that for so long had been his prison. "Thank you, but I will have to decline. I've been in these woods for far too long. But as thanks for freeing me and allowing me my life, I'll leave you with a blessing." Lifting his hands, the god cupped the hero's face, before leaning down and planting a kiss on the top of his head. "Game will always rest in these woods, life will always dwell here for the people of Ordon to hunt. And you, hero, wherever you go there will be creatures for you to hunt, be it high in the mountains or in the scorching desert, you will always find something to satiate your hunger. And now, I'll take my leave. Thank you for freeing me."

And then Link was alone.

Link stood there for several minutes, slowly processing what had just happened. He freed a god, then threatened to kill him… and now he's blessed so he'll never go hungry?

"How am I gonna explain this to ma and pa?" Link muttered, continuing on his way.

Chapter Text

Fierce stood in the new forest he had transported himself to.Shifting on his feet, the god wrung his hands. What did people… do normally?

Fierce flinched harshly, nearly tripping over his own feet as several birds chirped nearby, their joyful songs sounding like cannon fire in the god's ears, painfully slamming against his head like artillery firing on a fortress. Covering his ears Fierce let out a pained whine, quickly moving to sit under a tree as the birds were joined by the wind, swaying the trees tops above him.

Bugs quickly joined the chorus as the sun started setting, causing the god to let out another distressed sound as he pulled his knees to his chest, burying his face against them.

He'd been tethered to that mask for nearly his entire life, this was- this wasn't- The world was so loud, had it always been this loud?! He needed- Fierce couldn't deal with this right now, he needed quiet, or quieter. Something, anything, that was less than this deafening forest!

Then all the sounds plaguing him faded. The Fierce Deity sighed heavily, his body instantly relaxing. Unfolding himself Fierce looked up, surveying the endless expanse of sand before him, the quiet whistle of the wind brushing the sand a welcome reprieve from the deafening forest. Yeah, Fierce thought he was going to stay here for a bit.

It didn't take long for the god to strip away most of his layers as the sun beat down on his physical form, a layer of sweat covering his body.

'Can I get sunburned?' Fierce wondered, glancing up at the burning celestial ball, it's rays feeling like they were cooking his pale skin. 'Did I ever go anywhere sunny before I was imprisoned?'

Fierce paused, realization dawning on him. He didn't go to a lot of places when he was still free… What did snow truly feel like? Was it as cold as when he felt it trapped in the mask? Or was it colder? What did rain feel like? What did waves truly sound like?

Golden Three there were a lot of things for Fierce to do. He was going to have to take this slow, it was going to be awhile before he went anywhere near a forest or- Goddesses forbid- people.

-

'I think I'm prepared.' Fierce folded his arms over his chest. He should in theory be fine in a forest now. He had been exploring the mortal plane for several months now and he’d gotta somewhat used to all the loudness and… activity the world had to offer.

Fierce's ear twitched at the soft sound of birds chirping through the trees.Their melodies, though still loud, sounded more like distant thunder than cannon fire.

Sighing heavily, his shoulders relaxing, Fierce opened his eyes, surveying the bright forest around him, his heart swelling warmly with his small victory. For a few seconds, he allowed himself to admire the dappled light as it shone through the trees. Then, he started walking.

Fierce paused, stopping in his tracks as his boot made a crackling sound. He looked down and shuffled his foot away to reveal… Dead leaves. The god hummed, his ears twitching as he crouched. Picking up one of the leaves Fierce turned it around in his hand. The plant snapped, creating the crunching sound that stopped him to begin with.

Picking up a couple more leaves Fierce quickly crumpled and snapped them to dust making the god hum happily as his ears flinched and a small smile graced his lips. Yeah he liked this, this was quite nice. Crunching leaves wasn't ever something he’d noticed while trapped. The sound used to be… like, a quiet crinkle? It was always quiet, near unnoticeable, nothing to even warrant Fierce to pay the forest floor any attention.

He clearly had been missing out for years, he was very fond of these dead plants. But eventually the god pulled himself away from the ground, continuing his aimless venture through the forest.

-

The Fierce Deity stepped into a grove to the sound of fairy chimes.

Instantly he was swarmed, several tiny balls rushing to greet the newly freed god, chiming welcomes as they forced him further into the clearing.

A loud rumbling chuckle flooded the clearing, making Fierce jump, his hand instantly on his hilt as he spun around to face it.

"Hello Fierce Deity. It has been quite some time since our paths last crossed."

Craning his neck, Fierce followed the trunk of the giant tree until he locked eyes with the Great Deku Tree, his gaze warm as he looked down at the god.

"I thought you perished." Fierce blurted out after a second, causing the forest guardian to bellow out a laugh.

"Once, yes. But that was many, many years ago. I have regained my strength and body since then."

Fierce stayed silent, blinking up at the forest guardian. 'Goddesses, my social skills are lacking. I need to speak with people more. How do I hold a conversation? What do I say? What did Link and I talk about?'

"That is good to hear. I will be departing now, the forest is large and I'd like to explore it more." Fierce eventually said, before promptly turning on his heels and marching out of the grove, refusing to look back and see the outcome of his horrible conversational skills.

-

Fierce sighed, his eyes closing as he soaked in the warmth of the setting sun. Waves crashing against the shore a welcome backdrop as the god settled down.

Stabbing the Double Helix Blade into the sand Fierce flopped down on his back, his arms splaying out on the sand beside him. Goddesses he loved the beach. Not too loud, but not horribly silent either. It was warm, the breeze was always nice. Add there were no people on the little islands in the middle of nowwh-”

"Who are you?"

Fierce jolted, his eyes flying open as he shot up. The person who spoke, who he could now see was a little boy, also jumped, scrambling back several steps.

"What- what are you doing here?" The boy stuttered, trying to sound unafraid as his ears quivered.

Fierce stayed silent for a couple seconds before turning away, his gaze falling onto the endless sea. "I'm enjoying the sun."

"You look weird-"

"You look weird." The child stated as he stood before Fierce, his voice indifferent and challenging, the tiny hero desperately trying to hide his fear as his body shook with it.

"I look normal." Fierce crossed his arms frowning down at the tiny mortal. He didn't look weird , he looked perfectly normal.

Fierce shook as a chill ran now his spine. Breathing heavily as memories of his time with the young hero came rushing in. Memories of simpler times, back when there was still some shine in the boy's eyes, and Fierce would talk to him about everything and nothing on those late nights when the little hero's demons were too loud.

Blinking rapidly as tears quickly formed in his eyes, grief swelling in his soul, Fierce harshly rubbed at his face, quickly getting up he yanked his blade out of the sand before walking away from the boy and disappearing.

Chapter Text

Fierce's boots slammed against the ground as he stormed through the quiet forest, his hands balling into fists. He needed these memories to stop, his sprite was gone, Link had grown up and chosen to betray him. So why was his mind insisting on bringing up these damned memories?! They did nothing but cause him pain! Why couldn't he just push them to the back of his mind and never think about them again? Why was that such a tall ask?!

"Bruf!"

Fierce jerked, stopping in his tracks, his ears shooting up as he whirled around. Grabbing his sword's hilt as something burst out of the underbrush, Fierce- A creature around the size of a large dog tumbled into the clearing on uncoordinated legs.

Releasing his sword, Fierce relaxed, peering down at the baby monster as it fell.

It was a lynel. Monsters made for battle. It must have sensed his distress, they always did. He didn't fully understand why he was connected with the creatures. They were both creations made for battle, but that's where the similarities ended. Fierce didn’t really mind though he was quite fond of the giant beasts.

Not that this one could really be called giant. The only thing giant about it were its hooves.

"Hello there," Fierce cooed gently, settling down on the grass as he stretched his hand out to the monster.

The lynel boofed excitedly, its oversized mane flopping around as it bounded towards him, tumbling over its legs several times before flopping into his lap, making the god chuckle. Smiling softly, Fierce carded his hand through the monster's fluffy mane, his shoulders sagging as his distress started to fade from the forefront of his mind.

-

Fierce's brow twitched as a buzz filled his ears. He opened his eyes and sat up from where he was lounging, causing the lynel to murr angrily as its pillow suddenly disappeared.

Ears twitching, Fierce quickly rose up. 'What is that?' It was like he was suddenly drowning in oil, a near tangible feeling of darkness rolling over him.

"What on the Goddesses' plane?" Unsheathing his sword, Fierce motioned for the lynel to stay behind as he marched into the woods, his body tensing for a battle as he followed the strange dark magic.

It didn't take long for Fierce to hear the sounds of clashing metal. Slowing his steps he looked through the trees, watching as a red clad teen fought off a swarm of moblins. The boy, clearly very skilled, danced around the clearing, slicing and striking the monsters.

Fierce frowned after a second, the boy's attacks, numerous and accurate, were doing little to nothing. 'A skilled fighter, but perhaps he doesn't possess enough strength?'

Sheathing his sword Fierce summoned his bow, notching an arrow quickly before aiming at the closest monster. Letting his bow string slip through his fingers Fierce listened to his arrow hit its mark as he notched another, sending it flying after the first.

Soon enough the teen was left standing in a clearing of disappearing monsters, looking around in baffled confusion, before his eyes quickly hardened and his head whipped around to face Fierce's direction.

"Hey! Whoever you are get-"

The world suddenly tilted and warped, making Fierce stumble as the forest shifted into a temple.

Ethereal golden mist flowed through the halls, shifting and spilling around the Fierce Deity's feet as he looked around.

"You could have at least popped in and said hi." Aaand came face to face with his sister.

Hylia, she looked older, stood in front of him, her arms crossed and wings puffed as she frowned disapprovingly up at him.

Fierce shifted on his heels, glancing away as he crossed his own arms. "I was getting to it." He replied quietly. "But reorienting myself with a physical form hasn't been without struggle. And unfortunately, people are very stimulating. I have been avoiding people as a whole since I was freed."

Hylia sighed, her features softening. "I suppose that would be a little overwhelming. Are you doing alright, now?"

Fierce shrugged. "I am working on it."

"That's good. I'm here if you ever need someone to talk to, though."

Fierce looked back at his younger sister. "Thank you. But was that the only reason you brought me here? Surely it was not just because you became aware of my freedom."

Hylia grimaced, scratching her neck awkwardly, "Wellll."

The Fierce Deity threw his hands up, groaning in frustration as he started pacing. "Of course! There's always something. What do you want this time sister?"

"Wh- Hey. Ok listen, I'm not targeting you, you just did something that I can't allow."

"Did I!?" Fierce huffed, crossing his arms as he whirled around. "And what exactly did I do?"

Now it was Hylia's turn to huff, pointedly looking away from her brother. "There's this creature, Dark Link, and he's causing trouble in the mortal plane across time."

"Yes?"

"And… I've asked the Goddesses if I can deploy my heroes to stop him. He was my mistake, so it's only right that I take care of it."

"So?" Fierce prodded, growing impatient. "Where is this going?"

"I don't want others getting involved." Hylia looked down, her wings ruffling. Before she quickly popped back up vigorously. "But the Golden Three said that I could! Ok?! I have their approval, so you can't get involved."

Fierce sighed, exhaling deeply as he pinched the bridge of his nose. "How did you convince them to allow that?"

"I asked nicely."

"I cannot express how ill-advised this plan of yours is. Your hero was losing when I intervened. You are going to get them all killed by not accepting others’ aid."

"Wrong! I'm bringing them together," Hylia stated proudly, her wings raising as she set her hands on her hips. "They're going to be the strongest fighting force this world has ever seen."

"Hylia…" Fierce groaned, burying his face in his hand. "You truly expect me to stand by while your heroes falter in battle?"

"No, because that's not going to happen, they have each other. The others stumbled upon the hero you helped only a second after I brought you here. He would have been fine. I have full confidence in their abilities."

"I do not believe that the Golden Goddesses allowed this." Fierce shot back.

"Well they did! You can go and ask them!"

"I will!" Yelling back Fierce stormed off. Leaving the building Fierce walked through the white void-like expanse that made up most of the spiritual plane heading towards the Golden Goddesses’ temple.

Stepping into the temple Fierce unstrapped his sword, hanging it on one of the many weapon racks lining the wall beside the door.

Golden mist pooled around the god’s legs as he walked through the temple’s silent corridors. Melodies filtering through the air, coming from everywhere and nowhere as they surrounded the god filling his ears and mind with a peaceful serenity.

Fierce hesitated as he reached the giant doors leading into the inner temple, nerves pooling in his gut. He hadn't seen any of the Golden Three since the beginning of his imprisonment, when Din came down and moved his mask to a safer place after Hylia lifted the hylians into the sky.

Exhaling Fierce pushed the doors open, lowering his gaze as he stepped into the sanctum, and presented himself before the Golden Goddesses.

"Fierce Deity!!!" Fierce was suddenly barrelled into, enveloped in a crushing embrace that caused him to stumble.

"Hello... Farore." Fierce greeted, his voice muffled in the goddesses shoulder as he limply accepted the hug.

Farore squealed, pulling away before quickly cupping the shorter god's face. "Look at you!!! You're so big now!"

"Sister stop smothering him," Nayru chastised, giving Fierce a fond smile as she stopped beside the other goddess.

"You act as if there was something preventing you from seeing him." Another voice joined the conversation, making Fierce jump as an arm settled on his shoulder. Glancing up he caught Din's gaze giving her a small smile, which she returned.

"Well, I haven't seen him in person." Farore huffed, crossing her arms.

"You could have gone down and visited whenever. Nothing was preventing you from doing so." Nayru added unhelpfully, earning a glare from her sister.

"This is all very pleasant, but…" Fierce piped up, trying to get the reason for his visit back on track.

Din sighed fondly, shaking her head. "Always to the point with you. There is nothing wrong with sharing some moments with your family." She said before suddenly pulling Fierce closer ruffling his hair as she rubbed his head.

Fierce squawked, flailing around until he freed himself. "This is why I do not visit!"

"Oh?" Din raised her brows, cocking her hip to the side. "And here I thought your imprisonment was the reason for your absence. I'm happy to know your true feelings on the matter, droplet."

Fierce twitched at the nickname, his ears lowering. "Being imprisoned might have influenced the matter greatly." Fierce added, muttering towards the ground. "Nevertheless, I have come here with a purpose."

"Yes. The reason for your visit."

"Hylia says that you have given her your blessing to prevent others from engaging with 'Dark Link' in forms of combat and aiding her chosen heroes in their battle against him."

Din scoffed, heavily rolling her eyes making Fierce raise his brow. "It is a moronic idea that I do not support. But my opinions have been overturned by these bleeding hearts who believe the action to be grand."

"Hylia says that she's confident that they can pull through." Farore snapped, crossing her arms as she frowned at Din. The conversation was quickly leaving Fierce behind and turning into a sibling feud. "Besides, they are her heroes, and their enemy was her mistake as well. I see no issue in her wanting to handle it herself."

"Completely by herself." Fierce added, jumping back into the conversation. "The hero I aided was not equipped to handle this foe, his attacks were useless against the monsters. If the battle continued as it was that boy would have died. Yes she says that the other heroes were inbound, but there is no guarantee that they would have arrived in time. I simply do not believe that willingly putting this burden on… Twelve people? Is a wise decision."

"Nine. And they're doing pretty good so far!" Farore bounced on her heels, her pride for the Heroes of Courage seeping into her voice. "And they don't even have everyone yet! There's still two more heroes the chain needs to recruit!"

"They have to recruit the others themselves!?"

"And with all of that said." Nayru quickly spoke up, silencing the Fierce Deity before he could continue. "The answer is no, you're not permitted to interfere. It shouldn't be too difficult, since you're still reorienting yourself. Just keep doing things as you've been, and I doubt this will bother you at all."

"Agreed!" Clapping Fierce on the shoulders Farore smiled down at him brightly. "You should just focus on yourself for a bit."

Sighing heavily Fierce crossed his arms, looking away from the sisters. "As you wish…"

Chapter Text

Link grunted as the bulblins club slammed into his shield, the force making him stumble back several steps. 'This is the last time I say somethin's gonna be easy.'

Link grit his teeth. He had been fighting this small pack of bulblins for the better part of an hour now, and he had only managed to kill one. They just wouldn't go down! They were strong, way stronger than they should be. Their blood was black and thick, it was fuckin' weird, Link had thought that it was oil the first time he caught a glimpse.

Rolling out of the way of a sword, Link popped up beside another bulblin slashing it from its hip to its nose. The monster squealed for a brief second, its black blood flowing down its face like a waterfall. Then it stilled before flashing a bone chilling grin at Link and slamming its club against his head with blinding speed.

"Aah!" Link cried as he was sent to the ground, his head colliding with the forest floor harshly.

Gripping his sword with shaky hands Link spit out a glob of bloody spit glaring at the monsters now surrounding him as he tried to get back to his feet unsuccessfully. 'Fuck. I didn't think my second death would be by bulblins too.'

Closing his eyes he waited for the inevitable pain of death.

Link's eyes flew open with a gasp as dozens of tiny things stabbed into his skin. They were biting him!

Link screamed as the monster's held his arms and legs down, their teeth sinking into his flesh, breaking through skin and muscles, blood soaking their lips as they ripped off pieces.

Cackling several of the bulblins let go and got up. "Wha- what are you doin’?!" Link watched in horror as the standing bulblins pulled out knives. Stabbing into their arms they grinned as blood ran down them, falling and landing on Link's newly created injuries.

"AAHH!!" Link screeches, kicking and flailing madly against the monster's hold as the blood hit his wounds, burning and eating his flesh like acid.

'…There we go…' A voice whispered in the back of Link's mind as his veins started turning back where they met his injuries. The glyphs that covered his forearm, like the ones that adorned the shadow beasts Link fought during the invasion, started glowing red as his fingers turned black, like they were dusted with ash.

Fwush!

Link gasped in surprise as dark ancient magic flooded over him promising death. Eyes widening Link watched as the bulbins that were killing, or whatever they were doing to him, ignited like wildfires, the beasts crying out in pain as the flames ate and consumed them like starving animals.

Several of the monsters were thrown to the side like bothersome insects, revealing the god Link had freed several months prior.

He looked furious, rage making his blank eyes look like they were glowing as he swung his twisting double bladed sword, cleaving through the monsters like paper.

'Fuckin' hell, how did I manage to put a knife to his throat?'

Within seconds the clearing, once full of monsters, was now filled with their decomposing corpses.

Sheathing his sword the god turned his attention to Link. "Are you alright?"

"Um…" Sitting up with a grimace, Link trailed off, looking over the empty clearing. "I guess?"

Taking the offered hand, Link let the god(Link needed to get his name) pull him up.

Retrieving his sword, Link cleaned and sheathed it before limping over to a small patch of black blood. Bending down the hero went to touch it.

"Don't do that." The god commanded, making Link jump. Whipping his head around he looked up at the god who was now suddenly looming over him. "It's dark magic in physical form. I would not recommend touching it, especially you."

Glancing at the substance again Link hesitantly got up.

"You should keep your distance from these things. As beautiful as your monstrous soul is, it will fall easily to this magic's corruption."

Link scrunched his nose, shaking his head. "I'm not a monster." he argued, causing the god to lift his brow. "I'm… a Hylian."

The god hummed, looking down at Link for several seconds, his gaze thoughtful. "Well I am sorry to be the bearer of this news, but no, you are not Hylian. You are a monster just as much as the creatures I just slayed were. Creatures known as 'shadow beasts' turned you into a monster during the Twilight invasion."

"No!" Link snapped, that wasn't true. He was hylian, the shadow beast dragged him into the Twilight Realm, where he should have turned into a poe like everyone else, but the triforce protected him! He came away from his quest with a couple of scars and markings, not as a whole different species.

The god raised a brow at Link's outburst, unimpressed, before replying. "You do not need to raise your voice. There is no need to be ashamed, monsters are beautiful, powerful creatures with almost no equal. The Triforce of Courage protected your mind when you were first dragged into the Twilight realm, but not your body. You were turned into a monster. And now the crystal, the curse you wear around your neck allows you to access your original form."

Silence fell between the two men for several long seconds.

Link's eyes were wide as he stared up at the god, that- that couldn't be true. He was Hylian, who with the triforce got turned into a wolf for a bit…

Fierce gaze softened, he was too blunt wasn't he? “You are simply different from what you thought, but you are still yourself. What you are does not change who you are, hero." Fierce quickly added, noticing the glossy layer starting to coat Link's eyes as his breath sped up.

Link sniffled, fuck, he shouldn't be getting so emotional about this. This explained a lot- claws, better senses, the faint glyphs covering his arms, the markings on his face. Furiously wiping his nose on his sleeve, Link stepped away from the god and looked away. "So why are you back here?"

"I wanted to explore the region where I was trapped, see what all these forests have to offer."

"It's a pretty nice forest." Link muttered before pausing. Ears flicking, Link looked back to the god. "What's your name? if you don't mind me askin'."

The god blinked at Link owlishly. Did he think that he already told Link?

"I'm the Fierce Deity."

Link cocked a brow up. "That's your name?"

"Yes. What issue do you have with it?" Fierce crossed his arms defensively. Fierce liked his name, he'd have everyone know.

"Nothin'! nothin'…" Turning back towards Ordon, Link muttered under his breath. "It just doesn't sound like a name."

"Hey!" The god yelled, causing Link to break into a sprint, snickering as he ran away.

A grin spread on Fierce's lips. He kind of liked this hero…

'You liked the last hero too,' Fierce's smile fell as a small voice whispered from the back of his mind. 'And look how that turned out. Or even before that, you considered Demise your friend, and he trapped you in that mask. Friends are not a wise decision.'

-

Link sighed contentedly, sinking further into the warm waters of the hot spring. He’d never realized that there was one so close to Ordon, but just far enough away to bathe without the gnawing fear that someone might stumble onto him.

Well, there were a couple people he wouldn't mind if they stumbled in on him… 'One person.' Link's brain unhelpfully corrected, one person if you didn't count the woman who stole his heart and was currently in another realm where he would never see her again. Yeah, ok fine. One person.

Sighing Link pushed off the spring’s rocky side, wading through the steaming water towards where he had placed soap. He needed to… talk to people more or something, this had to be a form of loneliness. He had met Fierce twice and tried to kill him one of those times. Sure he seemed like a good guy, and his bluntness might have stirred up some butterflies in Link's chest… And he was tall… Really tall. Link groaned into his hands, his face heating up. Ok so maybe there was a case to be made for things other than loneliness as to why he liked the god.

Which one was more crazy? Wishing his former lover who was a realm away would appear, or that a very scary god would walk by and be interested?

Spirits. Link grabbed the soap and leaned his head against the spring's edge. He swears people would lock him up if they caught wind of his taste in people. A god and an imp, who then wasn't an imp… Why couldn't he just be attracted to people he actually had a shot with- or who wouldn't leave him.

Scrubbing his arm, Link lathered it with soap as he let his thoughts wonder.

"Oh Goddesses-" Someone's feet slammed against the ground, stumbling backwards. "My deepest apologies."

Link flailed, tossing the soap as he splashed away from the springs edge, slipping on a stone and submerging himself under the water briefly. Regaining his footing Link popped the top part of his head above the water, staring at the god standing at the spring's shore, partially facing away with his hand over his eyes.

"It's ok. Don't mind it if it's you."

…

'Spirits did I just say that out loud?'

Link stared, his face boiling as he watched Fierce still, his ears flicking in confusion before the god lowered his hand. Regarding Link with a raised brow. "Pardon?" A small smile graced the god's lips, his eyes full of confusion and something else. "You are a very bold hero, but I feel that your attractions could be misplaced. I am as old as the world itself, surely you have peers you could aim this affection towards."

"So you're saying that you got a lot of experience," Link continued, he'd already dug his grave, might as well fully commit, even if he was silently dying inside. 'I can't believe I'm saying this, Ma is gonna kill me if she ever hears about this.'

Fierce started at Link for several seconds, shifting uncomfortably. "No. I've been trapped in a mask for hundreds of thousands of years, I do not possess much experience in anything."

Link frowned, watching as the god's mood dulled. Fuck he hit a sore spot. Wading to a deep part of the shore near Fierce Link folded his arms on the rocky bank. "'M sorry, that must be hard. I wasn't tryin' to bring up a touchy subject."

"It is quite alright. There was no way for you to know." Fierce responded walking over to where Link was, sitting down beside his arms and pointedly looking just beyond the hero's head. "But, as you have brought up the offer of intimacy. I would not mind… Talking?"

"Oh?" Link straightened slightly, his pupils growing wider as his ears twitched.

"Perhaps I am old fashioned, but I've always been more inclined to formal courtship than a spat of intimacy."

Link felt like his mind was melting, this is what he daydreamed about, this wasn't. This wasn't supposed to actually happen!

"If I may be so bold, if you wished-"

"Yes!" Link yelled, practically vibrating.

Fierce paused before huffing fondly, smiling at the hero who was now his partner. "Alright."

Chapter Text

Link panted, wiping a bead of sweat off his brow before he flopped down. Leaning against a tree he lifted his arms, beckoning his sparring partner over.

Fierce huffed, shaking his head but obliging. "Done already?" He asked as he settled down beside his lover, snaking his arm around the hero's shoulder.

"Already?" Link scoffed, shaking his head, fondness in his eyes. "We've been sparrin' for three hours. And unfortunately, I'm a mere mortal who gets tired. Not all of us can be gods."

"Hmm, 'mere'? I think that statement is incorrect. You have seen and done many things that others could only dream of." Fierce replied, pecking Link on the lips.

"Like what? Datin' a god, for sure. Don't think many people can claim that."

"You would be surprised. There have been two other heroes before you who also had relations with a god."

Link's eyes widened, his brows shooting up. "Really? Who are the other two?"

"The First Hero, he and Hylia were deeply in love," Fierce rolled his eyes, remembering how clingy and sappy his sister and her lover had been. "And the Hero of Sky, who is the first reincarnation of the First Hero, who loved and married Hylia's first reincarnation. She perhaps was not fully divine, but she was very close."

"Interestin'. You know a lot about tha other heroes, huh?'"

"I suppose. My knowledge on the heroes is not something I have considered with a sense of scale." Fierce shrugged, leaning his head on Link's as he watched the trees sway.

"...It’s gettin' dark, we should probably head back." Link said after a while of the pair dozing. Watching clouds drift past through the trees in the now darkening sky. Fierce murmured something under his breath as his eyes fluttered open slightly, before closing again, leaning against Link more.

"No, none of that. We can sleep 'n snuggle back at my home." Getting up with a huff Link grabbed Fierce's hand pulling the reluctant god up before he started walking towards Ordon, gently pulling his half awake lover along as he kep hold of his hand.

"So what else do ya know 'bout the other heroes?" Link asked as they walked.

Fierce hummed, tilting his head side to side as he rubbed his eyes. "That is a difficult question. I do not even know where to begin."

"Start with who you know the most about." Link suggested.

"Well. The Hero of Time split the timeline into three branches." Is how the Fierce Deity began his explanations on Hylia's chosen heroes.

-

"That's insane." Link muttered, snuggling closer to Fierce on his bed, an endless amount of thoughts and questions swirling around his mind. He was speechless, the other heroes had done so much. They seemed inhuman…

In a good way, not in the inhuman-monster way Link was.

Sighing as a wave of negativity washed over him, Link sat up, his ears drooping.

"What is wrong?" Fierce asked, watching his partner curl in on himself as his mood soured.

"I… It doesn't feel right to be lumped in with all them." Link admitted after a second.

Frowning in confusion Fierce sat up. Circling his arm around Link's torso he pulled him closer, nuzzling his neck. "I think you fit in perfectly. You are more than worthy of being amongst those heroes."

Shaking his head the rancher leaned away from his partner. "I know you ain't lyin', but I just can't believe that. I got turned inta a fuckin' monster for Spirits’ sake!" Getting up, Link started pacing the loft. "Maybe that's why they ain't come here yet, they didn't want a weak link on their quest."

Eyes growing wide Fierce quickly moved off the bed, catching Link by the shoulders, forcing him to stop his pacing. "Link. You are neither worse nor less than the other heroes of courage, you have faced things none of the others have, and conquered them. You can not look me in the eyes and tell me that with everything you have done you are not worthy of the title."

"I died… My quest hadn't even started yet…" Link muttered weakly.

"And it only goes to show how strong you are. In the face of death you did not cower. And when you were given a second chance, a chance you could have used to leave, to run away from the dangers of the world and keep yourself safe, you chose to run head first towards the things that cost you your life originally. There is nothing weak or unworthy about you, my love."

Sighing Link wrapped his arms around Fierce's waist, burying his face in his chest as he hugged the god tightly. "But what if you're wrong? What if I'm just a filthy monster like everyone's been sayin'?"

"There is nothing filthy about monsters, especially you. And we would be better for it, you would not be subjected to summons for a fools errand, and I would not have to deal with the fools on the errand."

Link snorted, shaking his head against Fierce's chest. "Ya really hate the Hero of Time."

"I do. Would you like to get some fresh air?" Stepping away from Link, Fierce brushed a stray strand of hair out of his eyes, smiling down at the man.

Link sighed, his shoulders lowering. "Would probably do me some good."

-

The couple walked hand in hand through the still forest, moonlight guiding their path through the trees as the chilling wind painted their skin.

Glancing up at the moon Link shivered and stepped closer to Fierce. It was getting close to a full moon.

Fierce said that the event never had a name, that back in ages past when gods still dwelled amongst mortals everyone just knew what it was. It was the time when the barrier separating the void Null dwelled in and the Goddesses' creation thinned, when Nothing and Everything were the closest. It was the time when monsters grew stronger, more active, feral and violent. Apparently there was an era where malice was so abundant that the event even manifested. They called it the 'blood moon'. Able to bring back any slain monster.

Link hated it.

Hated that, looking back on events now, it made sense. Ever since his journey ended there were days when he was bursting with energy that seemed like it never waned. Days when his markings were so painfully obvious against his skin. Days when his temper was so short he ended up in screaming matches with the mayor, snapping at the village children, and once ended up having an all out brawl with his father.

Link hated this. Hated being a monster, and hated how obvious it was that he was one.

"Are you alright?" Fierce question, watching as Link's eyes grew dull, his pace slowing as he watched the moon through the trees.

Link jolted, snapping out of his thoughts. "Uh, yeah, I suppose. Just, the moon’s got me thinkin' about things."

Fierce nodded, glancing up at the moon before turning his attention back to Link. "Would you like to share your thoughts? Perhaps voicing them will lessen their effects on you?"

"It’s just monster things. I don't like bein' one, thats really all. Talkin' about it ain't gonna make me stop bein’ what I am." Link frowned, sighing deeply.

"Perhaps it would help you see that it is not a negative trait." Turning fully towards Link Fierce placed his hands on the hero's cheeks. "Perhaps speaking on the matter will help you realize how lovely you are, the way you are."

Smiling slightly, Link shot up, planting a kiss on Fierce's lips. "Thank you, 'n maybe when we get back ta my house we can talk about it? I just ain't up for it right now."

"Of course love. We can speak on this whenever you would like. I am well versed in waiting." Fierce joked, which LInk snickered at. "Now shall we-"

Fierce cut himself off. Turning, he scanned the forest, ears shifting around as if he was trying to hone in on a sound.

"What is it?" Now alert, Link started looking around. He didn't hear or see anything out of the ordinary.

"We should leave." Taking Link's hand again Fierce started marching back towards Ordon. "They're here."

Link's eyes widened, glancing back in the direction Fierce had originally looked.

"So why are we leavin'? Shouldn't we talk to them or somethin'?" Link asked, trotting alongside his lover to keep up with his quick strides.

"If you wish, we can stop and have this, collision now. But it is late, I do not wish to interact with the Hero of Time, and you have already dealt with emotional things tonight. I think it would be better to deal with them in the morning."

Pressing his lips into a thin line Link glanced back again, tilting his head to the side as he thought. "Alright. Dealin' with them with some rest under my belt does sound better than doin' it now.

“And ya know you don't have to be there right?" Link continued as they trekked towards his home, their pace brisk.

Fierce hummed. "What do you mean?"

"You don't wanna deal with the Hero of Time, so don't. You don't gotta stick around while I talk to them."

"Oh." Fierce huffed with amusement. "That was the plan, my love. I would far prefer to stay near and watch over your interaction. But they will sense me, they already sense me. My presence, even removed from the conversation, would only cause distress."

"Alright, then it sounds like we got a plan." Link replied as he nodded.

-

Link sighed heavily as someone yelled outside, stirring him from his dreams. Sitting up he blinked slowly as his eyes adjusted to the light. Fierce was nowhere in sight, as expected. He said that he was going to be scarce today.

Rolling his eyes as the yelling continued, Link reluctantly got up and headed down to the base floor.

'Goddesses this is not how I wanted to start my day.' Throwing the door open Link stormed out onto his small porch. "The hell are ya yappin' about?!" Link shouted locking eyes with the boy who had been the cause of the yelling.

Talo jumped, surprised at Link's sudden appearance, before quickly recovering, shooting back with a shout of his own. "People were lookin' for you! 'N you’re all up an’ sleepin'!"

"Shouda let me sleep!" Link shot back, before finally turning his gaze to the group that was awkwardly standing a little ways from Talo. Narrowing his eyes Link jumped off his porch. "Talo get, before I go tell your ma that your yellin' at people."

"What! Don't be tellin' on me, ya jerk!" Talo shouted back, stomping his foot.

"Then leave. You've done your part. This ain't your buisness no more."

The boy huffed, his hands balling into fists, before he stormed off, leaving the heroes alone.

Watching the boy leave Link crossed his arms before turning towards the group. They looked uncertain, glancing at each other and back towards him.

"So what do y'al-" Link started to ask, stepping closer to the heroes, but was cut off as two swords were drawn, one pointed at his head by a boy in a red tunic that stood out against the other heroes' garb, the other by the shortest hero, the tip pressing against Link's throat.

One of the heroes, sporting a fucking white cape - spirits that must get horribly dirty. Imagine if someone grabbed it in a fight - gasped. "What are you doing?!" He hissed to the shortest hero, who was holding the sword pressed against Link's neck.

"He's covered in dark magic!"

"And there was that other force last night! There's no way he didn't have a part in that, with all the darkness around him!" Red Tunic added with a hiss.

'Yeah no, I'm not dealing with this shit.' Stepping away from the sword, Link turned on his heels. "Bridge to Hyrule is that way, can't miss it." Thumbing towards where Hyrule met Ordon, Link turned away, intent on going back to bed.

"Wha- wait, wait, wait!" Cape man yelled, rushing around the sword wielding children. "Please ignore them! We have come a long way to meet you, we can't just leave."

'Meet me? Does he mean 'recruit me' to fight whatever the hell they’re fightin'?' Exhaling deeply Link turned back towards the chain, giving the man an unimpressed look. "Fine. What do you want? And if it's 'we want you to join our cause', you traveled a long way for nothing. I'm not joinin' whatever holy quest against evil or whatnot Hylia has put you on.”

Cape man jolted, physically taking a step back. Glancing back he shared looks with the others who also looked equally shocked, mouthing a couple words to them before turning back to Link. "You're the first person to know about our mission beforehand."

"Yeah, what gives? This shit was just dropped on the rest of us, why do you know about this already?" The red tunic boy growled, looking pissed.

"Are we sure he's not in cahoots with our enemy?" Someone whispered.

"I have connections, pinky. And honestly it ain't none of your business." Link scoffed, eyes narrowed into slits at the boy, who flinched harshly at the look.

"Pinky?!" The boy roared, starting to storm up to Link. "Say that to my fu-dfbk!"

The tallest hero- oh fuck, that was the Hero of Time- grabbed the other, looking very done as he covered the teens mouth.

"Ok," Cape man said awkwardly, watching the Hero of Time carry Pinky to the other side of the clearing. "That saves us from having to explain things, so that's nice. As you obviously know, we are heroes Hylia gathered together-"

Link snorted, rolling his eyes. What about 'I'm not interested' did these people not get? "Sorry to disappoint, but I ain't no hero. You can ask anyone in Hyrule, ain't nothin' but a monster."

Shifting his gaze to the shortest hero, Link glared before continuing. "And if I'm bein' honest? I don't want anythin' to do with people who take one look at the magic in me and decide that that's just cause to draw their fuckin' swords and point them at me." The shortest hero grimaced, looking away from Link. 'Yeah be ashamed you piece of shit. You wouldn't be happy 'bout a sword to the throat either. Ridiculous. And I was tryin' to be friendly.'

"And," The caped hero chimed in again. "I- we- are sorry about that. But we've been fighting monsters infected with dark magic for a long while now, and we still know very little about what's causing the infection. We can't really afford to risk it when we encounter someone who has dark magic."

'Wow, not 'I'm sorry for attacking you,' NO, 'I'm sorry, but we've been fighting for a long time so that's why we did that'. I do not like these people.'

"I'm Sky by the way." Sky lifted his hand, offering it to Link.

Link blinked down at the hand, staring at it blindly. 'I thought all heroes were named Link?'

"Your folks named you Sky? Really?" 'Did they not like you?'

Sky paused for a second before bursting out into laughter. "No, no, no! My name's Link, but we're all named Link, so we go by our titles. I'm the Hero of the Sky so, Sky."

'Spirits, this is the other hero who fucks deities?' Link didn't know how he felt about that. This man… wait hold on, were they kinda inlaws??? This man was doin it with Fierce's reincarnated sister so… Oh mistake, Link wished he could unthink that.

"I'm assuming that you're also Link, so what's your title?"

Link jolted, snapping out of his thoughts. "Title?" Link murmured back, scrunching his nose. 'What title?'

"What do people call ya?!" A boy yelled moving away from the main group. Sticking his thumb to his chest he said proudly. "I'm the Hero of Wind!"

'Oh, those.' "Don't got one." Link responded truthfully. The people of his kingdom hated his guts, thought he was a monster and wished him to either be dead or to have never been born. Why would they give him a title? "I guess 'Unholy beast' or 'monster' are the closest thing I got, it's what most people call me." Link added sarcastically.

Sky, along with several other heroes, cringed. "Well, you're clearly a hero, so what would you like your title to be?"

''Clearly', unless you live in this era, apparently.' Link pursed his lips, his ears twitching lightly as he shifted on his feet. What did he want to be called?

Several names people had used for him over the years moved to the front of his mind.

'Youngin' That's what Rusl called him. 'Wild child' All the adults in Ordon, 'My son' Shade, 'Love' Fierce, 'The Divine-'

"Twilight. You can call me Twilight."

"Well it's nice to meet you Twilight."

Chapter Text

"A'ight, well this was nice n' all, but I got things to do." Giving the heroes a slight wave Twilight turned and started climbing the ladder.

"Are you seriously going back to bed!? We have shit we need to talk to you about!" Pinky yelled.

Inhaling deeply as irritation swelled in his gut, Twilight swung around on the ladder, yelling at the teen. "No, ya turd! I got work to do and I ain't dressed for it! So fuck off! I got shit I'm expected to do and I ain't skirtin' it cause a bunch of weirdos say they gotta talk ta me!" Climbing up the ladder, Twi went into his house, slamming the door behind him.

-

'Spirits above!' Twilight growled as he herded the goats, spotting the group of heroes by the fence alongside the Mayor and Ilia, who were no doubt giving them a tour. 'Why can they not just get out of my bubble?'

Turning his attention back to the task at hand, Twi urged Epona into a gallop as he herded the last goats back into the barn.

-

Twilight panted as he dismounted Epona, he was so tired. Work seemed like it was never going to end. Waving to Fado as he wished him goodnight, the hero set off down the road, his mind set on flopping onto his bed and going to sleep the moment he entered his home.

"Oh hey!"

'Spirits give me strength.' The ranch hand sighed as he turned his head, his mouth set in a thin line as his gaze landed on Sky.

"Are you…" Sky hesitated, his smile straining as he looked at Twilight's deadpan expression. "Do you have some time to talk? The chain- that's what we call ourselves- have a couple questions we've been meaning to ask you."

Twilight closed his eyes, scratching his head. "Ya know I'm real tired, been workin' all day, I'd like ta just go to bed-"

"I swear it won't take long! We're not going to hound you to join us, we just have some logistical questions before we leave." Sky interrupted, looking borderline desperate.

Twilight raised his brow, was he really going to believe that?

-

Yes, apparently, as Twilight was now sitting in the chain's camp, surrounded by the heroes as they sat around a fire.

"Ok but honestly, how the hell did you know about all this beforehand?" Legend- aka Pinky- asked, still looking somewhat ticked off. Maybe that was just how he looked?

Twilight shrugged, prodding the dirt with his heel, replying, "Like I said I know a guy, 'n he knows all about this." as he vaguely gestured to the camp.

"And who is this ‘guy'?"

"Ain't gonna say," Twi crossed his arms, his ears flicking in slight irritation, what did these questions have to do with logistics? "He got… history with some of y'all, and I'm not gonna open that can of worms and cause trouble."

"He knows some of us?" Wild piped up, glancing at Twilight from where he sat on the ground beside Hyrule. "And we don't get along?"

"Yeah. So, I just don't wanna start nothin'."

Sky nodded, looking thoughtful. "That's understandable, we really don't need anymore fights. Do you know of monsters with black blood?"

"I do, fought a small swarm of them a couple months ago."

"By yourselves?!" Legend yelled, nearly falling off his log as he jolted forward, staring at Twilight in shock.

"Nah, the man who told me all about this helped. Don't think I'd be here if he didn't save me." Twilight rubbed his forearm, where, if he wasn't wearing his tunic, he would feel dozens of small scars where the bulblins had bitten him. He still had nightmares about it. "If I'm remberin' correctly, he helped you too." Twi added before Legend could reply, shifting the conversation off of him.

"Me?" Legend narrowed his eyes, looking confused before they shot open. "Goddesses above! That was in another era! What deity are you in bed with!?" The teen yelled, though he looked more perplexed than angry. Twilight burst into laughter as he watched Legend’s enraged confusion.

'Spirits you have no idea how true that is."

The rest of the chain didn't share Twi's amusement or Legend's anger. Sky and Hyrule looked completely lost, Wild looked curious, Four and Wars continued eating their dinner, unbothered by the scene. Time's eye was wide, staring at Twilight before pulling his gaze away and muttering to himself before scrunching his face up and shaking his head.

"So, this threat, how much damage is it causin'?" Twilight asked after a while. He knew that he said he wasn't going to help. Fierce's warnings about the infected monsters were ringing in his ears nonstop, but… If this was killing people, and he could possibly curb the death toll, even just a little, it- the risk could be worth it.

"A lot. They're attacking people all over the place," Warriors replied, his expression growing serious. "There are a lot of roads and entire areas that have been closed off from travel, in several different eras."

"We've run into a couple completely destroyed villages, too." Four added.

'Spirits.' Twilight frowned, his ears drooping. The chain seemed like they really needed help.

"If we could just track the blood, or the magic, I swear we would be able to stop attacks from even happening!" Legend slammed his fists against his knee.

'Oh. hook line and sinker.' Twilight thought, before groaning and smacking his hands against his face, the sound making Legend stop his starting rant.

"Twilight… can you- can you track monsters?" Legend asked tentatively, his ears raising as his eyes filled with a glimmer of hope.

Twilight sighed heavily, responding reluctantly. "Yes."

"So you wanna join the chain and help us on this quest?!" Sky asked quickly, his words slurring together as he shot Twilight a thumbs up, his voice overwhelmingly chipper.

"I'm gonna fuckin' regret this." Twilight mumbled into his hands. Straightening up he gave Sky a disgruntled look.

"Soo, is that a yes?"

"Yes, it's a yes. I'm gonna fuckin' regret this, but I can't just stand by while people are gettin' hurt."

Chapter Text

Sticks crunched under Twilight's paws as he trotted through the forest, keeping his nose close to the ground as he searched for any sighs of monsters.

"Love,"

Twilight yelped, jumping and tumbling backwards as a presence suddenly appeared in front of him. Turning back into a hylian Twi gasped loudly, holding his chest as he looked up at his lover. Fierce winced, looking sheepish as he offered Twilight his hand.

"You scared the life outta me. Don't do that!" Taking the hand, Twi got up before shoving Fierce.

Fierce snorted, barley moving. "Apologies, I was not trying to frighten you." He replied, opening his arms and welcoming a more than eager hero into his warm embrace.

Twilight sighed contently, wrapping his arms around the towering god’s torso.

"You come here ta scold me for my horrible decisions?" Twilight muttered into Fierce's chest, his ears heating up as his mood soured. He really didn't want to get scolded, he already knew it was a dumb decision for his own heath, he didn't need others saying it as well.

"No?" Fierce replied looking amused as he tilted his head. "I am not your parent, I will not scold you. I have come to ensure that you are well."

"Well I am doin' well, Ti-" Twilight cut himself off.

"What is it?" Fierce asked gently.

"Time's been lookin' out for me." Twilight looked down at his boots, his ears lowering.

"Ah…" Fierce replied, shuffling on his feet.

"You really hate him don't ya?" Twilight asked after a second of suffocating silence, his arms dropping to his sides.

"As he is now? Yes." Tilting his head Fierce looked down at his lover quizzically. "Why?"

Twilight sighed deeply, digging his claws into his arms as he grit his teeth he refused to look his lover in the eyes. "I- he doesn't act like a bad person. He- he's not evil."

Fierce bothered his lip, glancing away from his lover. What was he supposed to say to that? How was he even supposed to feel? "The Hero of Time is not evil, he is just… a flawed man." Fierce eventually said, stumbling over the words. 'A very, very flawed man.'

"I feel like I'm betraying you." Twilight said simply, his ears lowering as he hugged himself.

Fierce snarled soundlessly, venomously shaking his head before pulling Twilight into an embrace. "That is not the case."

"What he did to you was horrible, I- I shouldn't be fuckin' lookin' up to him." Twilight spat out the words, tightly wrapping his arms around the god's waist, like he was scared the man was going to leave now that he heard his thoughts.

"You are not betraying me by holding opinions of your own. The Hero of Time wronged me, yes, but that does not make him an unlovable monster, incapable of change. Perhaps you will aid in his change of heart."

Twilight nodded, a hiccup escaping his lips as he held Fierce tighter.

"Darling?"

"Ju- Give, give me a moment, please- hic- emotions, lots of them- happening." Twilight managed to say between choked gasps as he body shook, tears blurring his vision.

"Of course, take as long as you need." Fierce hurriedly said, holding his lover closer as concern flooded his thoughts.

-

After a while, when Twilight's heart returned to a normal pace and his breath came out steady, Fierce spoke up, his voice measured. "I do not wish for you to see this as me telling you what you should do, but…" Fierce hesitated, avoiding Twilight's eyes as the hero stared up at him. "I do not believe it to be wise for you to be engaging in a battle that leaves you so vulnerable."

Twilight stepped away, his ears flinching as his brow furrowed. "I appreciate the concern Fierce, fuck I got the same concerns. But lots of people are dyin' cause of these monsters and the fuck controllin' them. With my trackin' skills we've been able to stop a lot of attacks before they happen. It might not be great for my life, but I think it's worth it to save others. And in theory, since I'm in a group I should be safe or at less risk of gettin' snagged."

Fierce sighed, shaking his head before leaning down and kissing Twilight. "Why must you be so noble?"

"It's in my nature, been drilled in me since I was a youngin'." Twilight replied, snickering as his lover nuzzled his cheek.

The god sighed, pulling away as a frown settled on his face. "I know you can handle yourself just fine my love. But… I cannot trust those other heroes, no matter how much I reason with myself. Not with you. I have known and seen far too many people- good, strong people- who were well-equipped for any threat brought to their knees because their team was not prepared. I have seen many killed because their allies did not consider a threat as great as it was. Warriors forced into submission, turned into pawns and monsters, all because others did not do their part. I do not want that to happen to you."

"Fierce," Placing his hands on the god's face Twilight tilted his head down so their eyes could meet. "I trust them. And I still stand by my opinion. I think this risk is worth it. I'm sorry that I'm causin' you concern, but my stance on this isn't gonna change."

Fierce sighed heavily, closing his eyes as he leaned down setting his forehead against Twilight's

"And, if it's really eatin' you up, you could join us." Twi grinned, a teasing note entering his voice.

"Oh Golden Three, no." Fierce chuckled. Grabbing Twilight's hips the god quickly picked him up, planting a kiss on his lips.

"Whaaat, why not?" Twilight joked, grinned from ear to ear.

"It would be ill-advised, I would not get along with many of the other heroes. I have also been forbidden from aiding in any way. I trust your judgment, if you believe that you are safe with my sister's pets, then I will believe it as well."

"Thank you."

"Mm Hmm." Fierce hummed absently as he began to kiss along Twilight's jaw, causing the hero's breath to hitch as he leaned into the touch, wrapping his arms around the god's neck as his eyes fluttered shut.

"Fierce."

"Yes?"

"I would-" Twilight leaned away with a huff, rolling his eyes. "Fuckin' hell why am I tryin' to be all proper 'n shit. I wanna have sex with ya before I die… if I die." Getting down Twilight started pacing, wringing his hands as his face heated up. "'N I know ya said before that you'd rather wait, 'n I get that, 'm fine with that… But I- I might die on this stupid quest 'n I- I'd like ta know ya at least once."

Fierce stayed silent for several seconds, his fingers flitting around at his side, his ears twitching. "That-"

"Fuckin' hell, no 'm sorry this ain't tha time nor place to be springin' this on ya, please forget I said anythin'." Twilight squeezed his eyes shut as he dragged his hands through his hair muttering to himself. "Link shut tha hell up, ya ruinin' shit."

Walking over to Twilight as he continued muttering to himself, his breath becoming unsteady, Fierce reached out wrapping his arms around Twilight's stomach as he pulled him against his chest. "Alright."

Twilight stilled, his breath hitching.

"I am more slow paced, yes. But my hesitation was born from a desire to love you and to be yours. And I can confidently say that I love you, my darling wolf. No, I have not prepared a home for you yet or set a ceremony in place, but we are betrothed." Fierce moved his hand down taking Twilight's, his thumb brushing over the obsidian band he had gifted his lover several weeks prior. "I do not think the Goddesses will begrudge me not holding a proper wedding ceremony. They can be our marriage officiants, the animals our guests, and this clearing our wedding bed."

Twilight sniffed, wiping a stray tear on his sleeve. "I don't wanna make ya do somethin' ya don't wanna do…"

Fierce huffed, turning Twilight to face him, fondness painting his expression. "My love, I mean this in the kindest way I can. I am a god, you can not make me to do anything."

Twilight blinked up at Fierce before shifting his gaze to the side, his ears lowering shyly as he muttered. "Well when you put it that way…"

Fierce chuckled. "Come here."

-

"Twilight's been gone for a while." Legend commented, tapping his spoon on his bowl as he looked at the forest surrounding their camp.

"Yeah, didn't he leave like, a couple hours ago?" Wild piped up from the cooking pot busy serving a second helping of soup to Wind. "Should we go look for him? He might be in danger- we don't know what he's capable of and the black bloods have been appearing a lot more frequently.”

"I don't know, I think Twi'll be fine-"

Four gasped, his bowl of soup clattering to the ground as he shot up, his eyes wide as he stared into the woods. "Something dark, and very powerful just entered the forest."

within seconds the group of heroes were scrambling to their feet, grabbing gear and putting on armor.

Quickly the chain moved through the woods, their ears twitching and straining as they looked for their missing member.

"Wait, shush," Legend held up his hand, his eyes sharp as his ears twitched madly. "There's sound, talking? That way."

Fierce leaned down further, deepening their kiss as he shifted Twilight arms above his hea- 

Snap-

Fierce eyes shot open. Breaking their kiss Fierce summoned the Double Helix Blade with a snarl.

"The sound came from this direction…" Moving a branch out of his way Legend trailed off, his eyes widening as he spotted the couple.

"Leg why did you- Oh Hylia!" Sky started to question Legend before spotting the scene before them. Quickly covering his eyes as his face heated up, Sky whirled around. "Wow ok, sorry sorry! we didn't mean to interrupt."

"Get the hell off him!" Time roared, suddenly beside Sky with his sword in hand.

Sky froze, his eyes widening as Time yelled, before he quickly followed suit, swinging his sword at the man holding his newest brother down, a beam of light shooting from the blade.

Fierce grunted as the beam collided with his side, followed quickly by several more from the other heroes.

"Fierce!" Twilight yelled as his lover was forced off him by the force of the attacks.

Growling as fury filled his blood, the Fierce Deity roared, swinging his sword at the heroes. A burning beam of light erupted from his blade, catching the grass on fire and forcing the heroes to scatter, the trees it hit creaking and groaning as their leaves caught fire.

"Wait no- Y'all!" Quickly scramming to his feet Twilight yelled as he started running towards the nearest hero. "Y'all stop! This is a misunderstandin'! He's not our enemy-!

"Hauh!" Twilight gasped as pain erupted from his chest, stopping him in his tracks and muting his voice as blood flooded his mouth, dribbling down his chin.

'What?'

Looking down, the edges of his vision started to blur, blobbing colors and shapes together. A blade dark and covered in golden sigils stuck out of his torso, his blood on its silvery edge shining in the dappled sunlight, his hands slipping against the liquid as he pawed at the sword tip.

"Fier-" Twilight tried to call out, his ears ringing and vision graying as a puddle started forming at his feet, but a hand covered his mouth, digging into the soft skin of his face as it forcefully stifled his call, tears spilling silently from his eyes as dark magic he had grown familiar with washed over his eyes.

-

Fierce roared, swinging his sword at the Hero of Warrior's head. He was done with this battle. How dare they attack him, he had done nothing wrong! But once again, the Hero of FUCKING TIME was here to ruin everything!

"Fier-" The Fierce Deity spun around as he heard his lover's cry. If they were going after Link, Fierce didn't care if they were his sister’s pets- he would kill every one of them.

The world seemed to slow, graying and muting into nothing as the god caught sight of the Hero of Twilight, a sword plunged through his chest, a darknut covering his mouth dragging his limp body into a portal.

"NOOO!!!!" Fierce screamed, a wave of energy erupting from his body throwing all the heroes away several feet, slamming the mortals into trees and through branches.

The Double Helix Blade, a sword that no mortal or god could pry from his hands fell to the scorched earth, its master's eyes wide, hands shaking as he stared at the place his lover had been seconds prior.

Gritting his teeth Fierce whirled around, furious eyes landing on the Hero of Time. "YOU! WORTHLESS! MORTAL!" The god roared, the ground around his feet cracking as he stormed towards the hero he once called a friend. "THIS IS YOUR FAULT!!!"

"You were forcing yourself onto my descendant! Did you think I would just sit back and let you!?!" Time roared back as he got back to his feet, his nails digging into Fierce’s hand as the god grabbed his neck.

"He is my LOVER! You stupid narrow minded fool!" Fierce tossed Time to the ground harshly, making the man grunt in pain. "He is the one who freed me from my prison! I was on top of my lover and you attacked me for it and now LINK. IS. GONE!"

Time's eyes widened, staring up at the god in shock. "What?"

"Link is gone, the infected monsters pulled him through a portal. I-" Pulling at his hair the god started pacing the clearing, the other heroes who were currently watching Time and Fierce's interaction speechlessly scrambling out of his way. "I came here, sought him out, because I was concerned. Concerned that this would happen! I did not trust you to be able to prevent the Darkness from capturing him, but he said that it was fine. That he TRUSTED you! That being many in number would lower the probability of capture! For once I wished he wasn't so independent and trusting! For once I wish I did not listen to him! I should have brought him home! Kept him away from the infected, kept him safe!"

The chain kept silent as the god ranted.

Eventually Fierce quieted, his body slumping as he panted, finally run dry of things to yell about.

"But, we can get him back, can't we?" Wind said tentatively, looking up at the ancient god. "It's not over yet."

Fierce lout out a humorless laugh, hanging his head. "Yes, it is, child. He has no doubt been corrupted by now, turned into a servant of Dark Link. Even if, by some miracle you located his base, the only thing you would find would be another enemy."

"Why didn't you do something about this? If you were apparently so concerned." Legend stepped closer to the god, his voice full of anger and accusation.

Fierce barked out a laugh. "If it was only that simple, boy. I am forbidden from aiding in this quest in any capacity." Crossing his arms Fierce glared down at the Hero of Legend.

"Wow, and here I thought that you were a god. You just get pushed around like that? Sit down like a dog if someone tells you you're not allowed to do something?" Legend quipped.

"You say that mortal, but if you were standing before Din, Farore, and Nayru, where would that quip be? You would defy your creators if they gave you a mandate? Faced with unavoidable consequences if you failed to comply, would you still proceed? After standing before the creatures that set the planets in motion, placed every star in the sky and hair on your head, would you still decide to disobey?"

Snarling silently, Legend looked away. The answer was no, no he wouldn't defy the Goddesses after standing before them. No one would.

"So that's it? Twilight's just gone?" Warriors questioned, looking around at the other heroes.

"That is it. You failed. There is nothing to be done."

Chapter Text

Twilight gasped as he was suddenly released, falling to the ground with a pained wail as the sword piercing his torso was yanked free.

Vision spinning and limbs weak, Twilight managed to shift onto his back. Monsters stared at him, bulblins, lizalfos, darknuts. All looming over him, watching him like he was an art piece on display.

"Well that was way easier than I thought!" A chipper voice stated over the snorts and hisses of the monsters.

Groaning Twi forced his gaze to shift as the monsters parted, revealing what Twilight could only describe as a living shadow, a man the color of soot, giving away nothing of his appearance except for bright red eyes that now stared down at Twilight.

"Hello beasty."

The shadow grinned down at Twilight as he whined in pain, his limbs twitching as the hero tried to get his baring through the blood loss.

Dark gestured at Twilight with a disgusted look. "Bring him to the throne room, I need to get rid of all this heroyness, it's making me sick." Dark commanded before walking away, leaving Twilight at the mercy of the monsters.

Grabbing Twilight by the arms, a darknut heaved and tossed him over its shoulder, forcing a sob of pain from his lips.

Shifting his head Twilight watched as the monster left the room, entering a corridor lined with burning blue torches and broken stained glass windows. Twilight whimpered as he was jostled. A loud thud rang out, then scraping. Maybe they were opening a door?

After a few seconds of the grating sound the darknut continued, passing two large doors. 'Hah I was right.'

"That was quick, just put him down there."

Twilight gasped, blood shooting up and out his throat as he was harshly thrown off the darknuts shoulder, his back slamming against the ground. Gagging Twilight writhed in pain, his eyes wide as he watched the shadow walk into view, a bright white grin plastered on his face.

"Ready to join my army?"

"N-Auk!-o.." Twilight gagged as he tried to respond, blood spilling down his neck and onto his chest, flowing into his ears and nose.

"I'll take that as a yes!" Dark laughed before grabbing a bottle off his hip. "Pulling out all the stops Beasty, you're getting the best stuff!"

Crouching down the shadow gently stroked Twilight's cheek before grabbing his chin violently and forcing his mouth open. Biting the bottle's cork Dark yanked and spit it out before turning the bottle over, the black liquid held inside oozing out and straight into Twilight mouth.

Twilight gagged, his hands tensing and legs kicking as the fiery, burning liquid was forced down his throat, easily fighting against the flow of blood to sink into his stomach.

Twilight sobbed as his vision dimmed, turning pitch black at the edges. 'Welcome to my army, wolfie.' The Dark Hero grinned watching as the Hero of Twilight went limp, his veins turning a deep black.

-

The chain trudged through the forest silently. No one wanted to talk, or even really look at each other.

Sighing in exasperation at the sorrowful mood covering the chain, Legend sped up his gait, settling into step beside Time. "What's your connection to the god we fought?" The hero demanded.

"I don't want to talk about it. It's irrelevant to the here and now."

"Really? Irrelevant you say? Like the fight you caused didn't directly result in Twilight-"

"Hey guys I'm kind of running out of food." Wild loudly interjected into the quickly brewing argument, forcefully derailing it. His slate, that he was moments ago scrolling through, in hand.

"What counts as 'running out'?" Hyrule prodded.

Wild grimaced, folding in on himself as he shifted on his feet. "… Less than one meal?"

The chain fell silent, completely stopping to look at their resident cook. Warriors muttered several curses under his breath as he pinched the bridge of his nose. "Why were we not informed of this before now?" Wars asked, his voice forcefully professional.

"I didn't realize I was running out before now!"

"How does that go unnoticed, your slate literally numbers shit!"

"I’VE BEEN STRESSED OUT OK!?!" Wild yelled back at Legend. "We've been fighting a crazy amount of monsters restlessly, we got a new member, but now we don't cause Twilight's gone! And I'm sorry that I didn't catch our growing food shortage, I've been too busy mourning. My. Friend!"

Wild panted, his knuckles white as his arms shook with anger. Legend stayed silent, his eyes wide.

"Hey! Enough fighting, ok?" Sky yelled, gaining the chain's attention before softening his voice. "There are a lot of us, let's just hunt some animals ok? And then when we're not hungry, we can make a game plan on regathering our food supplies. Just, stop fighting." His shoulders slumping as exhaustion flooded his voice, his normally bright blue eyes looking gray as he turned away from the others.

The other heroes stayed silent as they glanced at each other.

Eventually, Legend let out a sigh. "Sounds like a plan."

-

"I can't believe this is all we found." Warriors commented as he took a bite of his skewer.

"Yeah, eight people spread out across a forest, you'd think we'd find more than one small deer."

"Maybe we're cursed, pissed off Twilight's boyfriend and he cursed us so we'll starve." Legend said melodramatically, staring into the flames.

"He didn't seem like the starving- Holy shit!" Wild yelled, cutting off what he was saying as he jolted, falling off his log. Fierce stood over him, looking completely unimpressed as he held two deer. "You! Ohgoddessespleasedon'tattackus! Um hi?" Wild blurted out, earning a raised brow from the god.

"I brought you fools food." Fierce held up the dead deer in his hold for emphasis.

Sitting back up, Wild looked at the deer, studying them. Fierce scoffed. "Do you look every gift horse in the mouth? Will you take them or not?"

"Yes! Yes, I- we- would appreciate it very much." Wild replied, quickly pulling out his slate and dissipating the deer into it. "Thank you, this comes at a great time, we were struggling for food."

"I know." The Fierce Deity deadpanned, "That is why I brought them."

"Oh…" Wild stared into space briefly, his ear flicking before he turned his gaze back to the god towering over him. "How?"

"God of Hunting." Fierce replied.

Glancing up as he felt eyes boring into him, Fierce locked eyes with the Hero of Time, returning the man's glare with one of his own.

"So how did you meet Twilight?" Wild asked loudly, pulling the gods' attention away from Time.

"I met him in a forest near Ordon, Link's home. He- Goddesses!" Fierce yelled stumbling back as he suddenly found himself in the Golden Goddesses inner temple. "I have committed no infraction against Hylia's foolish mandate!" Fierce yelled, frowning up at the Goddesses lounging on clouds above him.

"Didn't do anything?!" Hylia- goddess, when did she appear?! -yelled at Fierce. "What about 'the heroes need to do this on their own' do you not get?!"

"They are!" Fierce shot back.

"You just helped them!"

Fierce threw his arms up, groaning in frustration, "You are unbelievable! I bless mortals with food regularly! They were hungry, so I fed them! You might be comfortable with your precious heroes starving, but I am not!"

"Shut it!" Farore yelled, making the god sibling go quiet, giving their creators their attention while shooting each other glares.

"Fierce, you were very clearly told not to mess with Hylia's heroes."

"Golden Three..." Fierce ears fell as he stared up at the goddess, a silent plea flooding his eyes. "My lover's life is at risk, and I have not lifted a finger to aid him. These heroes are the only hope I have. It is tearing my heart apart to abide by these rules. I- this is crueler than my imprisonment. Please Goddesses, let me rescue the Hero of Twilight! It will not interfere with the Heroes’ of Courage battle against Dark Link, it will be as though they never recruited him to begin with!" Fierce begged, falling to a kneel as he felt heat building behind his eyes.

Farore sighed, plopping her cheek on her hand, muttering to her sisters. "That would be a very cool battle."

Fierce's gaze shot up to the Goddess of Courage, hope flooding his soul.

"But. He's Hylia's hero, just like the rest of them. You can't get involved again Fierce Deity, I mean it, if you do, I'll have to send you to Termina until this whole thing is over."

"That- WHY?! You allowed me to aid him in the past, why will you not allow me now?!" Fierce yelled getting back to his feet, tears flowing down his cheeks. "Why allow me to aid him at all?! Why not let him die then instead of now?! Why let me get attached if you were going to rip him from my arms?! This is cruel! Where is the justice in all this?! I don’t understand."

"Nor do you have to!" Din yelled back at her creation, making him flinch. "You act like you are owed an answer! What right do you have to demand one?"

"I-"

"Do you know when he will breathe his last breath? Or what is in store for his soul? Do you know the outcome of this war? Or what will become of the earth after? Do you know the path every creature will walk, or how they intertwine and cross? Who are you to demand answers? Did you set the foundations of the earth? Have you ever given orders to the morning? Can you bring forth the constellations in their seasons? Does the hawk take flight by your wisdom? Who are you to question our justice?" Din huffed as the god siblings stayed quiet, neither knowing what to say.

"I apologize," Fierce spoke up after several seconds of suffocating silence. "I shouldn't have questioned your justice or snapped at you. I know you have a purpose for everything, and that you are not cruel, even if it may look that way with my limited insight. I just-" Fierce sighed, wiping tear streaks off his face. "Perhaps I should stay in Termina for a while. There is nothing I can do here other than cause myself more distress."

"I believe that would be wise." Nayru commented, snapping her fingers.

Hylian jumped as her brother fell, his body slamming into the shimmering marble floor with a resounding thud, his consciousness being whisked away to the realm he created in his dreams.

-

The chain stared at where the god had just been, a small plume of smoke rising from the circle of scorched earth.

"Well that's one less problem." Time muttered under his breath.

Chapter Text

The chain walked through a dark forest, their lanterns, torches, candles, and fire rods illuminating the darkness.

"And we're sure, this is the place that villager mentioned?" Sky asked, carefully stepping through the twisting strands of a tree's roots.

"Yes, there's no doubt about it, this has to be the place. And if it isn't, someone needs to look into why this era has two hella creepy, spooky forests." Wild replied, putting his torch in his mouth, the flames lapping at his loose hair and threatening to catch it aflame as the champion climbed down a steep decline.

"For the love of the Goddesses, please get the torch out of your mouth Wild." Wars said, watching Wild's hair as it swung over the fire.

"Murrf, murr muff." Wild muttered intelligibly through the torch, rolling his eyes before taking it in his hand again, shooting a look at Warriors. "Happy?"

"Very."

"How the hell are we supposed to find anyone in this forest?" Wind asked, grabbing Warriors' outstretched hand, letting the captain help him across the river. "I can barely even see y'all through all this fog!"

Fwush!

Wind let out a blood curdling scream as a large icicle suddenly flew through the trees, piercing his shoulder and sending him to the ground.

"Wind!" Several heroes yelled, moving to run to their youngest's aid.

But before anyone could get near the sailor the ground started shaking, rumbling loudly as it split, making way as dozens of skeletal creatures poured out, instantly attacking the heroes.

"Wind!!" Warriors screamed as he slashed his sword through several stalbeasts, catching sight of Wind's hand amongst a swarm of beasts in his peripheral.

Yanking his fire rod from his pouch Warriors lit up the entire forest as he activated the devastating weapon, killing the monsters swarming Wind. Rushing to the sailors side, Warriors growled, quickly scooping the youngest hero up in his arms, he was covered in bites, his skin torn and gone in several places, ruby liquid spewing from the wounds, soaking into his shirt and turning it purple.

"Time!" Warriors roared over the battlefield, gaining Time's attention while he fought off several of the skeletal beasts. "Wind's down! He needs medical attention now!"

Time opened his mouth to reply before his eye widened his reply morphing into a shout. "WATCH OUT!"

Warriors gasped, his breath catching in his throat as his eyes widened, as he saw the sword swinging at his head in a deadly, unavoidable arch.

Clink!

The clash of metal rang out across the battle, the sword getting yanked away from Wars, a clawshot gripping it firmly making the monster wielding the weapon stumble.

Seizing the opportunity, Wild notched his bow raining a hailstorm of arrows down on the mysterious armored enemy. Wild grinned ferally as every arrow hit its mark, the several bomb arrows he tossed in creating a cloud around the monster.

A guttural roar ripped through the battle, the armored monster swinging his arm harshly, dissipating the smoke, and revealing no damage, not even a scratch to the pitch black armor.

'Fuck.'

Yanking its sword, the monster broke Sky's clawshot, making the chain retract, slamming into the chosen hero's head leaving a deep gash in its wake.

"What the fuck?!" Legend cursed, swinging his sword at several floating lanterns crashed out of the trees. "New enemies, look out!" He yelled across the battlefield as he failed to strike any of the lanterns down.

The lanterns quickly flew through the battle, weaving around monsters, before stopping near several heroes. Within seconds Time, Sky, and Four, cried out in pain, before the lanterns zipped away, leaving Time with a large gash in his armor. Four and Sky both doubled over, giant gashes carved into their backs, spewing blood as both heroes fell to the ground.

'Shit!' swinging his sword through another stal Legend rushed to Four, he needed to get the injured- everyone needed to get out of there!

Familiar blue flashed in Legend's sight, feral and dark, a gaze that sought nothing but blood.

Planting his boots in the ground, Legend flung his sword up, blocking the Ordon Blade before it sliced into his skull. Legend's breath caught in his throat as he stared into Twilight's eyes, his gaze hard, not a hint of the gentleness that used to hide within them.

Stumbling back as dread filled his soul, Legend stared at his once-brother.

The battle seemed to go quiet, both monsters and heroes stopping as the new figure entered the arena. The Hero of Twilight- no, The Unholy Beast stood tall amongst the monsters, canines. They had taken down too many of the pack members, so now the leader emerged, promising vengeance for his fallen comrades.

Cutting through the air, Twilight sliced across Legend's arm, making the veteran hiss in pain, metal scraping against bone before the sword freed itself from flesh.

"Fuck!" Biting his tongue as a swarm of swears flew around his mind, Legend swung his sword at Twilight as a flurry of arrows rained down on him.

Growling Twilight jumped back, avoiding Legend's attack before pulling out a shield to block Wild's barrage.

Lowering his shield Twilight glared at Legend. He launched himself at the hero before stumbling back, an arrow slicing across his cheek, blood as dark as night, flowing from the wound.

Sucking in a breath, Wild shook his head, forcing all thoughts of his mentor to the back of his mind as he drew his bow again and aimed for the beast's head.

'Oh crap!' Spotting several icicles flying towards him Wild jumped from his tree, ducking into a roll before hitting the ground, splinters raining down on him as the icicles collided with the trees.

Snarling Twilight launched himself at Legend again, slamming his shield into the hero's face, briefly blinding him with the impact, allowing a darknut to charge in, slicing its large sword down Legend's back and sending the hero to the ground with a scream.

"Fu- fuck." Legend slid his arm under himself, forcing himself up on the shaking limb while his vision tilted and things started to split. Getting to his knees Legend stabbed his sword into the ground, using it to lift his shaking body up.

Legend's breath hitched as a blue glow suddenly emitted from behind him. Turning his head, all color drained from the veteran's face as a lantern floated behind his head.

Twilight turned away as the imp poe struck Legend forcing him back to the ground, this time unmoving. Scanning the battlefield Twilight's gaze immediately fell onto Time, the armored hero fighting in the middle of the clearing, cleaving though stalhounds as he desperately tried to face off against one of the darknuts.

Letting out a low howl, Twilight called for the darknut to step back, allowing him to take its place.

Time stiffened, eye going wide as he watched Twi. "I don't want to hurt you, pup." Time warned, his grip tightening on his sword.

Twilight ignored his ancestor’s plea, grabbing his ball and chain from his pouch. The large ball thudded against the ground, creating an indent in the earth. Yanking the chain Twilight heaved the large ball up with ease before swinging it at Time, forcing the older hero to jump out of the way.

Shooting up, Time swung the biggoron blade at the weapon's chain, shattering it before running towards Twilight, jumping and swinging his sword down onto the man. Raising his shield, Twilight grunted as Time's attack met his defense.

Arm shaking as Time bore his full weight onto his blade, Twilight glared at the hero before black particles covered him.

Time stumbled as the man and shield were suddenly replaced with a much smaller wolf. Snarling Twilight launched himself at Time's face, forcing the hero backwards and to the ground, making the man let out a pained grunt.

Quickly turning back into a hylian Twilight lifted his sword above his head, bringing it down to plunge into Time's chest.

Twilight gasped, his sword falling from his hands hitting the ground beside Time's head. Slowly looking down Twilight stared at the sword tip sticking out of his chest. Blood quickly spilling from his mouth as he opened it to say something.

"Huewh…" Twilight gasped again, his fingers slicing open as he grasped at the blade, warm blood spilling onto Time's face, the man frozen as he watched the color slowly drain from Twilight's face.

Letting out another gurgle, Twilight fell forward as the blade was pulled from his chest.

Finally snapping out of his trance, Time quickly sat up and gathered his descendant in his arms. "Nononono, Twi, Twilight! You have to stay with me, pup." The eldest hero pleaded, tears falling from his eye as he watched Twilight's tunic turn red.

Wild panted, standing over the two heroes, his eyes wide as he watched Twilight choke on his own blood.

Looking down at his bloodied sword, Wild dropped the weapon, his hands shaking as his actions fully dawned on him. He killed his mentor. He killed Twilight.

Tears blurred the champion's vision as he body began to shake, his feet planted where they were, unable to run away or draw closer to his loved one. "I'm sorry. I'm so sorry." The hero repeated over and over, his voice a whisper as he watched the Hero of Twilight, his brother, his mentor, fall still.

Chapter Text

Twilight gasped, shooting up as he jolted awake. What the hell happened?! Where was he?!

Scrambling to his feet Twilight frantically looked around searching the unfamiliar area for anything he could recognize.

"What the fuck, what the fuck?!" The hero yelled, the last thing he remembered was that shadow creature forcing that liquid down his throat. What happened after that? Where was he!?

"Link?!" Twilight whirred around, his gaze landing on the god a couple feet away, looking frazzled as he panted heavily. Rushing forward Twilight threw himself into his lover's arms. Desperate for anything familiar.

"Fierce what the hell, what is happenin'?!" Twilight yelled into the god's chest, his knuckles white as he held onto the god tightly.

Fierce stayed silent, rubbing circles on Twilight's back. Pulling back, Twi looked up at the god, searching his blank eyes for any clues to his silence.

"Fierce? What's happenin'?"

Fierce bit his lip, looking away from Twilight as he shook his head, his breath heavily. "You are…" The Fierce Deity inhaled deeply, closing his eyes as he rested his chin on Twilight's head. "I wish to say, before anything else, that I love you and always will. I will never leave you unless you send me away."

"Ok…?"

Fierce sighed heavily, holding Twilight tighter. "You died."

Twilight froze, blinking at nothing several times. That couldn't be what Fierce said. His ears had to be playing tricks on him. Or maybe Fierce was playing a trick on him.

"What?"

"You died, my love." The god's voice sounded watery as he buried his face in Twilight's hair, "A sword went though your heart."

Twilight ears rang, like someone was ringing a bell right next to him. Dropping his arms he stepped away from the god, his eyes wide and blank, staring through the god.

"Link…"

"What do I do now?" Twilight asked, his voice monotone.

"You could move on…" Fierce supplied, sounding like the words, the mere thought of Twilight leaving permanently, pained him. "You fought a good fight, several good fights. You have earned your rest ten fold."

Twilight shook his head, "No. This ain't well deserved, I don't wanna be dead! I had so much I still had to do- my family- I don't want to be dead!" Twilight cried, stumbling further away from his lover as tears started pouring down his cheeks. "I had so much to do! What about the other heroes?! What happened to them? Are they ok?"

"Link… please, take a deep breath, love." Fierce said gently, slowly closing the gap between them again.

"Oh Spirits, do I even need to breathe?!" Twilight's heart hammered against his chest, his breath continuing to speed up, his eyes wide as his hands gripped his hair making his head sting, his claws digging into his scalp as the world started to blur.

"Link-!"

-

Twilight groaned as he was jostled awake, shifting closer to the warmth he was pressed against.

Forcing his eyelids open, he sluggishly blinked, staring uncomprehendingly.

"Link?" The movement stopped, as Twilight heard a noise, but it sounded like he was below water, muddled and incomprehensible. Rubbing his eye Twilight yawned before blinking the sleep from his eyes. "Link?"

Oh, he heard it that time. Glancing up Twilight locked eyes with his lover. "Fierce?" Shifting- Oh shoot, not a good plan he was being held. Bracing himself with Fierce's shoulder Twilight shifted, sitting up in his lover's hold. "What happened?" He didn't recognize the… void, they were in.

"You were panicking, then fainted… Do you not recall?" The god asked gently, keeping hold of Twilight's waist as he set him on his feet.

"No? What was I panic-" Oh fuck.

Oh Spirits, he was dead.

Twilight stilled, his eyes growing wide. Which the Fierce Deity quickly noticed, immediately moving and cupping his face.

"Link, it is going to be alright. You will be alright. Your… journey has not ended. You have just taken a turn and are now on a different road."

Twilight nodded, watching as his lover's shoulder's instantly relaxed, the god looking like he was a breath away from panicking himself.

"So… Death. I'm dead." Twilight stated after several seconds of silence.

"Yes."

"I don't want to move on." Twilight stated, his voice unwavering. He Was Not moving on. "Is there anythin' else I can do besides that?" Twilight asked, taking Fierce's offered hand as the god started walking again.

"You could… Not move on?" Fierce replied, shrugging unsurely. "Apologies. I do not know much about the afterlife."

Twilight nodded, his ears flicking quickly as thoughts ran through his mind. "I wanna do that."

"Alright." 'Thank Golden Three, I do not think I could live without you.' Fierce mentally cheered.

"I'm gonna be like Shade."

Fierce halted, his brows furrowing deeply as he looked down at his lover in confusion. 'Like Shade…' Trapped??? Stuck in the mortal plane until he can't even remember what he was like while alive??? "That… is an option." Fierce finally said.

"I wanna continue dwellin' in the land of the livin'. Helpin' and guidin' people." Twilight continued, a look of determination swelling in his eyes.

Fierce hummed, his mouth pressing into a thin line as he scratched his head.

"What?" Twilight questioned, raising his brow. What was the hold up?

"That would be something to ask the Golden Goddesses, your soul is not tethered to the mortal plane like Shade's was. You should, by most standards, be moving on."

"Well I ain't doin that. So how do I talk to these Goddesses? Is there a place I gotta go to? Or…?"

Fierce let out a weary sigh. "No, I can… I can take you there."

Twilight let go of the god's hand, folding his arms over his chest and making the god raise a brow.

"Link?"

"You don't have ta go if you don't wanna. You only got to point me in the right direction, love."

Fierce frowned before reaching out and taking Twilight's hand again. "I am more than willing to take you there, but I will have to warn you. My family can be… intense."

"Eh, you've met my pa, your ma and aunts can't be that much worse." Twilight shrugged. Fierce shook his head, the god not believing his words. "And besides, this can't be more awkward then when ya started yappin' ta Pa 'bout 'bridewealth', no one knew what you where talkin' 'bout. Pa thought you were tryin' ta buy me or somethin'." Twilight snickered, bumping into Fierce's shoulder, who's face was heating up.

"I had not realized that it had fallen out of custom."

-

'Ooh this isn't what I was expectin'.'

Twilight shifted on his feet nervously, his ears pointed at the ground as he stared up at the ethereal beings sitting above him.

Fierce glanced at his lover, then squeezed his hand, giving him a small smile before turning his gaze back towards the Goddess. "This is Link, Hero of Twilight, he has a request to make." Fierce said simply.

The red Goddess, Din, shifted, her fiery hair falling over her shoulder and cascading down the clouds? She was lounging on, like a waterfall of fire. "Does he?"

Twilight flinched heavily as the Goddess's voice boomed, originating from everywhere, even his own mind.

"Don't be scared!" Farore shouted, her voice a lot less booming, than her sister's. The Goddess was practically bouncing off the walls of the temple as she looked down at the hero.

"I… I want to continue dwellin' on the mortal plane, I wanna keep helpin' people, as a guide or, somethin'." Twilight stated, his heart hammering in his throat as a headache quickly formed from his nerves.

The Goddesses hummed sharing looks for a few seconds before Nayru spoke up. "You may do that, but you would be relegated to the form of a divine beast."

"Pardon?"

"Oh this might not be the path for me then." Twilight quickly said taking a step back, really to leave the temple.

"On the mortal plane. Slow your hearts, we are not cruel. Within the realm of spirits as well as select days on the mortal plane, you will regain your hylian form."

The couple let out a collective sigh, releasing the breath they were holding. "You are unpleasant, causing us undo stress. I thought you wished to turn my lover into a wolf."

"We're not turning your husband into a dog, calm down." Farore stuck her tongue out at Fierce while the other two goddesses ignored him, keeping their focus on Twilight.

"If you do this," Din started drawing Twilight's attention. "You will not be sent back to the time where you died. The heroes must live with the choices that they have made, and unfortunately your loved ones as well. Death is permanent for those who care for you, even if you get a second chance."

"You will be sent to a time you have never been before, one that your aid would do well." Nayru added.

"Alright. When do I start?" Twilight grinned up at the Goddesses. his heart swelling with purpose. Turning towards Fierce Twilight reached up grabbing the god's shoulders pulling him down so he could easily peck his lips. "I'll see you in a bit I suppose."

"Yes. I will find you after you have settled into this new life."

Nodding the couple parted and Twilight looked up at the Goddesses again, "Whenever you're ready."

-

Twilight paws landed on soft grass, a cool breeze brushing through his fur. Opening his eyes Twi looked around. He was in a forest, dappled light filtering through the trees, speckling the ground.

Moving his head close to the ground Twilight began sniffing around, seeing if he could recognize any of the scents. They, unsurprisingly, were nearly completely foreign to him. Some smelled vaguely familiar but Twilight couldn't place where he’d recognized them from.

Breaking into a trot, Twilight moved through the brush, his paws silent against the forest floor.

"Whoa…"

Twilight paused, his ears shifting as they caught a faint voice. Changing directions he headed towards the noise. Perhaps they were who he was here to help.

Slowing his gait as he neared a clearing, Twilight crouched down, creeping through the tall grass to keep hidden.

A young boy was standing in front of a sword, the Master Sword, sheathed in a pedestal and looking like no one had touched it in many, many years.

The boy was grinning from ear to ear as he walked around the sacred blade, "So cool…" the boy muttered quietly, before promptly taking hold of the sword and yanking.

The sword unsheathed easily, making the boy stumble back, unprepared for the sword's weight.

'Holy Spirits, he's a tiny hero.' Before he knew what he was doing Twilight was fully entering the clearing. The boy, who was he kidding? Link jumped as he saw Twilight, scrambling backwards and dropping the master sword as he cowered in fear.

"Do not be afraid, little one." Now it was Twilight's turn to scramble back, the wolf jumping and whirling around as an old voice rang out from behind him.

Twilight craned his neck up, his eyes wide as he looked up at the tree with a face.

"This wolf is a Divine Beast little one, a creature created by the Goddesses to aid those worthy. He is no threat to you." Twilight couldn't help as he straightened up proudly, yeah he was a Divine Beast, and he was here to help.

Tiny Link immediately relaxed at the -Great Deku Tree's? Twilight thinks that's who this is,- words. Shuffling back over to the Master Sword, Tiny Link picked her back up, waving shyly to Twilight. Partially hiding his face against Fi, as he muttered, "Hi."

'Spirits he was so cute,' The master sword dwarfed the boy, Fi standing a good two, three feet above Tiny Link's head.

Twilight boofed and wagged his tail, happily trotting over to the little hero. Lowering his head as he stopped in front of the boy, Twi boofed again, wagging his tail even more.

Tiny Link hesitated for a second, before a wide grin spread across his face. Dropping the Master Sword, sorry Fi, Tiny Link reached towards Twilight's head, sinking both of his hands into his fur. Tiny Link gasped before flopping onto Twi's face. "He's so soft~"

The Great Deku Tree chuckled, "The Divine Beast helps those in need. He comes from a bloodline known for aiding the Heroes of Hyrule."

Tiny Link gasped, pushing away from Twilight to look him in the eyes before looking up at the great tree. "Are you saying that I'm a hero?! Really?!"

"Yes, you proved as much when you pulled that sword."

"Wow… You wanna come home with me?!" Tiny Link's attention instantly pivoted back to Twilight.

"Boof." Twilight replied simply, his tail wagging as he nosed the tiny hero, nudging his cheek.

"Woo! Come on! My house's this way!" Tiny Link said before turning on his heels and running into the woods.

Yipping in surprise, Twilight quickly grabbed the master sword before following after his new ward.

END