Hello again my darlings! Since I am on Christmas break, that means one of two things. One, I need to catch up on my obnoxious AP classes... and two- I need to write more fanfiction. School is biting me in the butt and boy oh boy do I want to bite back... I will certainly try to update a few more chapters before Christmas rolls around, but I make no promises. I've been so physically and mentally tired from schooling... I can't wait for it to be over...

It's snowing like crazy down in Wyoming. Yet the wind is nuts! If I didn't know any better, I'd say we're living in Skyrim! Cold, windy, desolate... *sigh* But it's always nice to be able to curl up beneath a blanket and sleep as snowflakes fall outside. Well, without further ado, let's get to the chapter! :D

-WingedIceWolf

DISCLAIMER: I DO NOT OWN THE LEGEND OF ZELDA OR ANY OF ITS CHARACTERS. SOME OCS MAY BELONG TO ME BUT OTHERWISE, ALL RIGHTS ARE RESERVED TO NINTENDO!

DISCLAIMER 2: THIS IS NOT A LINK X LINK FANFICTION SO DON'T GET ALL RILED UP!

Wild's ears remained pinned against his head, embarrassment flooding him, blood rushing to his head. He buried his face into the palms of his hands, curling in on himself, wanting nothing more than to disappear. He had refrained from speaking out of fear of disappointing his ancestor in more ways than one. He felt the moment he'd open his mouth and utter a word, he'd fracture, releasing all his frustrations, his pent up rage, his confusion and loathing upon the very young man who had taken him under his wing without little question. All the secrets buried deep within, hidden away for months, would spring free… The veracity of the past would claw its way to the surface.

As time had progressed, he'd learned to keep to himself, to keep his lips sealed and his head high, no matter how much the words of those around him drove daggers into his heart. No matter how badly his wild-blue eyes stung with tears and his throat ached from keeping them back. He had trained himself to ignore the sudden bursts of vexation that begged to be freed, to turn and bear his teeth at those who spat at him, unleashing his wrath.

His mental stability balanced on the edge of a knife. In a world unfamiliar to him, wounded, lost, and scared, where his only reliance was upon his ancestors, it was only a matter of time before he spiraled into the madness that was his own mind, his sanity long gone, and lashed out…

If he snapped, what then? If he risked everything, if his ancestor knew the truth, how would he feel? Would he think of him as feeble, incapable of completing the task fate laid at his feet the moment he left his mother's womb and drew his first breath? Would the Hero of Twilight too believe he was undeserving of the title, "Hero"?

Was he merely an ugly blemish, a stain, a streak, upon a long history of successful Heroes of Chosen Blood? Would the only kin left standing before him turn his back and desert his own flesh and blood?

Then… He would yet again find himself alone, with nothing but the wind, the moon, stars, and the sun at his back. Left to squander in the darkness, fingers reaching out aimlessly in hopes to grasp the light. A light that would long since have faded, leaving him blinded once more.

Fear… Man's greatest enemy. Capable of tearing down even the most powerful of soldiers, converting them into trembling, wide-eyed husks. Sucking the breath from their lungs and locking them in place. It was only when this beast pounced that you would know a coward from a warrior.

Twi's smile broke, perking his own ears back, stepping over to Wild and sitting beside him, reaching out and rubbing his back comfortingly. He needn't be in his wolf form to know his guest was humiliated. Perhaps… even resentful. As expected, Wild tensed beneath his touch, his hands falling from his face, balling into fists in his lap. His head rose, only for a moment, and his eyes flickered to the bathroom, a place he could lock himself within until morning passed.

"It's a sensitive topic, isn't it?" the Hero of Twilight asked softly, continuing to rub circles into the Hero of the Wild's back. He answered with nothing but a forlorn nod, pulling his knees to his chest and resting his head upon them. "I will not press you for information. Your reasons are you own, and I will respect them. Though, I must say, your voice is beautiful. However, it definitely proves you are not from here- your accent is strikingly contrast to those within this era!"

Despite his comment, hoping to lighten the mood, the Hero of the Wild did not crack a smile in the slightest. Twi bit his lip, then sighed inwardly. He knelt before the Hero, tilting his chin up so their eyes met. "I will not think of you any less for your selective muteness. If you wish to speak, if ever, I will be ready to listen. I will not force you to converse with me."

The Hero of Twilight was met with nothing but a nod. He sighed softly, rising and offering his hand to lift his guest to his feet. Wild only stared at his hand, as if tracing all the swirls and creases within, before stretching out his own hand, fingertips grazing his ancestor's palm before he was pulled to his feet and guided to the couch yet again. Twi could have sworn he saw pain flash across his face.

"Hey… Are you alright?"

Wild nodded softly, signing, "Just sore", though his body language said otherwise. He was hunched over, clutching to his middle, grimacing. Twi's ears only perked back farther against his head.

Wrestling wasn't the best idea… he cursed himself. He had been warned to be careful with Wild as he is in his current state, yet he seemed to have thrown that heeding out the window. Perhaps it was the playfulness of the wolf within him that revealed itself every now and then, loving a bit of a challenge. Either way, he needed to reel himself in and be more careful from now on…

"Let me see…" He knelt before his guest, discreetly sniffing the air, yet his heightened senses did not catch the metallic scent of blood. Regardless, it was better to be safe than sorry in these circumstances. He pried Wild's arms from his stomach, but immediately, the Hero of the Wild turned to guard himself, causing Twi to release and let out an audible sigh.

"Link, I need to make sure you didn't tear open any injuries. Please let me see," Twi explained, gently nudging the young man's hands aside. "I can't have you bleeding out on me while I sleep… I don't understand what you have to hide, but if it has to do with your scars, there's no need to be ashamed. I have scars too, as do all the Chosen." He gently pushed the soft fabrics of Wild's shirt up to reveal his abdomen, littered with scars aged and recent. Where once had been a gnarled hole was nothing but a fresh, jagged scar. A sealed one, at that.

For now…

Perhaps it's because you don't trust me that you're so nervous…

He let the shirt fall, then took his seat on the couch beside his guest. "Scars… They're just markings to prove you fought a battle and came out whole. Whether or not you won, those scars will always be a reminder. I would rather have a body full of scars and a head full of memories than a life of regrets and perfect skin." His fingers traced a thin scar on the back of his neck, where an arrow had struck him while on his way to Death Mountain. The flaming arrow had nearly claimed his life that day, and made him question his capabilities as a hero. He almost turned his back on everyone, everything, there and then. But he didn't.

Why…?

"Let me tell you something, Wild. I want you to listen carefully," Twi began, taking a deep breath. Wild acknowledged him with a gentle nod, turning to face him. "Some believe it is only great power that can hold evil in check-" he raised his triforce hand to the firelight, turning it this way and that before letting it drop to his lap. "But that is not what I've found. I found it is the small things. The every day deeds by ordinary folk that keeps the darkness at bay."

Wild signed "is", then touched his forehead with the fingers of his right hand, then brought them down to form the letter "y". He then motioned to Twi, crossing his fists before his chest and bringing them out, then motioning to himself.

Is that why you saved me?

Twi shook his head, laughing softly to himself. "I wouldn't leave you there to suffer, Link. It's just not in my nature to let people die. Good or bad. I couldn't live with myself knowing I left someone out in the wilderness to be food for the animals. Now, let's get you some pain medicine. No more wrestling until you're healed. Got it?"

Wild exhaled slowly, but nodded, his amber-blonde bangs bouncing. He had no choice but to take it easy and recover. If it were up to him, he'd be out of this house by now and back on his feet! That's just how he was; he didn't enjoy laying around, wasting his time, when something could be done. Something that could bring him one step closer to his goal.

His head bent over his knees, the floorboards squealed, then he rose to the kitchen. He pushed bottles of spice and ingredients around the racks, knocking a few over, until he found a bottle with a red label that read:

Pain Medicine:

Take half a tablespoon every 4-6 hours for pain.

Ingredients:

Willow Bark extract

Honey

Cloves

Peppermint Leaves

Rosemary

Valerian root

Water collected from the Light Spirit's Spring

Warning: May Cause-

Dizziness, Nausea, Loss of appetite

He quickly took a wet rag and soap, scrubbing out the measuring spoons before returning to Wild. A satisfying pop sounded in the air as he uncorked the bottle, then poured the measurement into the measuring spoon, holding it out. The dark red liquid sloshed within the spoon. "This stuff will most likely knock you out for a while. It's pretty strong. Normally I'd have a potion laying around somewhere, but I had to lend it to Talo after he cut himself up… Dang kids."

Wild hesitated, yet again, in taking the medicine, but in due time, he slurped it down, licking his lips. He gave a quick sign of thanks prior to yawning. Twi eased him down, onto the pillow, then covered him with the baby blue blanket before returning the items to the kitchen. He dragged yet another log off the pile and slid it into the dying embers of the fire.

"Have to keep ourselves warm, huh? As Fall comes, it will become much colder. We often get snow in these parts, being so close to the mountains, so we always have to be prepared if we get snowed in. That's partly the reason for the Festival." He brushed off his hands on the fabric tied around his waist with the orange ribbon. "When you're healed, as I've promised, I'll take you to Castle Town. We have to go there anyway for materials for the Festival. I'm sure you'll enjoy it there. But for now just rest. I don't feel you're ready to be introduced to the village just yet. Your wounds are still rather fresh… Tell you what. If you're up in the morning, I'll take you with me. And if you're not, then I'll let you rest and you can join me in the morning."

He took his place upon the couch yet again and removed the lid from the bowl Uli had gifted him, the ribbon laid neatly beside it, and withdrew the slice of pie. It was still warm, thankfully, so he daintily shoved piece by piece into his mouth, enjoying the delicacy. He was rather proud of his work, though he had to give credit where credit was due; Wild had a hand in it as well.

After washing the bowl, utensils, and plate, drying them off with a small hand towel and setting them to dry on a wooden rack, he climbed up the ladder, bidding Wild goodnight. Twi climbed beneath his blankets, curled up on the floor. He waited until he could hear the faint, rhythmic breaths of sleep from his guest before he himself allowed sleep to carry him off.

~O~

Surely enough, morning came. The Hero of Twilight was up before the sun could pierce through the clouds, scrubbing his hair and shaving what little sprigs of hair had popped up on his chin with a small blade. After having drained the tub and tousling his hair dry, briefly combing it out, he slipped into clothes more fitting for the rapidly changing weather. It wasn't anything too different from his common apparel, but nonetheless would it keep him warm as he busied himself with the livestock.

Before he headed out the door, he stopped just before the couch and crouched down, checking upon his guest. A hand came to rest on Wild's head, but there was no fever. His breaths proved to be regular and his skin was its normal, peachy color. Nothing abnormal thus far. No red flags. The young man's eyes flickered beneath his eyelids, his amber-blonde locks spilling down his shoulders.

Fast asleep, as expected.

Wild would be in need of a bathing too. His hair had become rather shaggy and needed to be brushed down before it became a tangled mess. He was pretty sure the Hero took pride in his appearance, and he wouldn't want his hair to be hacked apart as a result of negligence.

"I'm heading out now, Link. If there's an emergency, I'll be up at the ranch. Just cross the bridge where the mayor's house stands and follow the trail up from there," Twi stated, brushing his hair back. "Get feeling better and don't push yourself, alright? I'll stop by at noon and if you're still feeling up to it, we can head back up to the ranch together. But even then, I won't be having you do anything strenuous. You can sit back and watch me work, just relax in the grass. Keep me some company. Fado can get pretty obnoxious with his blabber-mouthing." He chuckled softly to himself. "Epona will provide some means of fellowship."

There was a gentle groan of understanding to follow up his statement, followed by an ear twitch. Twi readjusted the blanket more securely around his guest and sighed gently, gathering fruits, breads, and small snacks from the kitchen. All these were placed within a serving basket and set upon the table, a red cloth draped over the basket to keep moisture in. Upon some consideration, a few logs had been placed within the bathroom, as well as a towel and a fresh pair of clothes should Wild decide to take the advantage of having a bath.

"There's some food left out for you that you're free to take and the bath is ready for preparation. All you need do is light the fire and warm up the water. There's books if you want to read, there should be a few paints in the dresser by the entryway if you find you want to paint, and there's some plants you can water if you have the time. Not very entertaining, I know, but I'm not a very entertaining person… And please, stay out of the cellar. I tripped in there the other day and hit my head on the desk. Last thing I need is to find you unconscious on the floor in the dark with a concussion. There's no light down there, so again, please stay out of the cellar."

He was admittedly nervous to leave Wild here alone, praying he wouldn't find the secret beneath the floorboards, but he trusted the young man to not set the house on fire. He was young, yet capable of keeping himself in check. He hoped… Hopefully that wouldn't be a vain hope…

With that, he threw open the door,shut it gently behind him, and took a deep breath of the crisp morning air. He brushed his damp, dirty blonde hair from his eyes, scanning the familiar area that he called home. Mildew had collected upon the grass, and the faint call of a hawk could be heard in the distance, the wildlife beginning to stir awake. As the sun began to rise, cuccos crowed loudly, signaling the dawn of a new day.

With a graceful leap, he left the ledge leading to the entryway of his abode, his feet settling in the grass. He straightened himself as he walked down the path into Ordon, humming a familiar tune as he went along. He passed the wooden arch, entering the village where he had been taken as an Ordonian and welcomed into their family. Many a times had he been offered to stay in the castle, where he'd be drawn a hot bath every morning, offered the most exquisite of breakfasts, lunches, and dinner, but he had to decline.

Nothing spoke home more than this little village nestled within the back of the Ordona Province. Despite it's size, it proved to be friendly and receiving. The village had grown over the years, yet its population remained small. Some had broken off as time progressed and went to live in Castletown, but many others new their place. Knew that the mountains, the crowing of cuccos, the smell of pine, the taste of pumpkin, beckoned them home.

None were up this early, to his surprise. Not even Talo and Malo, usually up at the crack of dawn to wreak havoc- just the usual. Regardless, he shrugged it off and continued up to the ranch, his heels thumping against the logs that had been bound together to form the bridge. Water rushed beneath and disappeared around the corner, feeding through the watermill.

When he reached the entrance to the ranch, the large, decrepit pine gates barred his way, sealed with a lock. They rattled in the early morning wind, the banners flapping on their lines, but the bleating of goats sounded from within the pens. He stepped up, jiggling the lock, but there was no click that affirmed the lock had been broken.

Guess Fado isn't here yet. That's not too bad, I can just get to work earlier without him being a distraction. The sooner everything gets tended to, the sooner I can get back to Wild.

This particular lock was old and occasionally would release if you jousted it just right. There had been instances when the tykes had learned of this and broke in, throwing hay, frightening the goats, and wasting precious apples, spilling them into the dung. Boy did they get quite the whooping…

It's a surprise they hadn't changed the lock since then. Twi let it drop with a bang as it hit the wood, then backtracked. He crouched down, then bolted at the gates. Just before he would slam into them, he leapt onto the top and hoisted himself over, rolling as he hit the ground.

The long grasses swayed beneath the early sun, the gates continuing to clatter, and the goats mewling. He approached the shed, pulled the latch that locked the wooden beam in place, and hoisted it upward. It was a simple mechanism, but should the goats ram against the door, somehow escaping their pens, the beam would prevent the door from bursting open.

The scent of hay and dusty goat filled his nostrils. It wasn't an unpleasant scent, but rather one that welcomed him each time he had come to do his fair share at the ranch. It was relaxing and set him in the mood for a day of hard work. Just as he stepped forward, there was an audible neigh from within, followed by the stomping of hooves.

And with that, the goats all began their bleating and hollering from within the shed, creating an uproar.

"Thank you so much, Ep, just what I needed," Twi groaned softly, his eyes falling upon the light-espresso mare that stared back at him with those round, chocolate eyes. He pushed his way into the shed, ducking under a spider web where a spider had just recently caught a fly that zipped through the door into its trap, to Epona. The mare stood within a decent sized pen, her tail flicking flies from her flank, head buried in the water trough, making bubbles as she huffed.

She pawed the ground with one hoof in greeting, and as the Hero drew ever nearer, she flicked her head so water splashed all along him. Twi immediately tried to shield himself, but even his wolfish instincts were not quick enough to outmatch his steed. A gentle rumble, sounding like laughter, emitted from her barreled chest, butting her head into her rider's shoulder.

It is about time, Hero… She teased, leaning and playfully nipping at his hair with her large teeth. I was beginning to wonder when you would show up. Even if you are early.

"You say that like I've been gone for years!" Twi laughed as he batted her head away and wiped the water dripping down his face on his sleeve. "You're lucky I love you. That water is cold you know!"

Lucky, am I? No, I believe myself to be quite blessed as your trusted mare. Love has nothing to do with it. Epona's eyes stated proudly, holding her head high.

"Believe what you want, girl," Twi muttered, reaching up with his left hand and patting her crest. He then let his hand fall to the latch at the gate, pulling it free from its socket with a chink, moving back to allow her room. Once freed from the shed where goats continued to scream, she graciously followed her rider into the field.

He watched as she stretched, tossing her ivory mane, the red within her coat hinted by the sunlight. She first began to trot, then galloped along the field, moving so quickly, she was nothing but a blur passing by. She ran as free as the wind across the rolling hill, the repetitive thumping of her hooves paired with her powerful breath bouncing off the walls. Alas, she slowed and came to stand before her rider, skidding and rearing on her hind legs to kick the air.

"Feeling better, I hope?"

Most certainly. I cannot express how uneventful and obnoxious being trapped in that shed can be. The goats are quite talkative… They will bleat all night, only falling quiet when the wind has ceased blowing through! She jested.

"Sounds like it," Twi agreed, brushing back his dirty blonde locks from his face yet again. "I'm sorry to keep leaving you like that. But it's better you stay warm and well fed than being out in the open with the chance of being attacked. Uli told me they've sighted some Bokoblins in the outskirts… I know how fierce you are, Ep-" he placed his hand to her muzzle, stroking the white line that ran down it. "and we both know you wouldn't hesitate to put yourself in the line of fire for us… I can't lose you too..."

You will never lose me, Link… The mare promised, leaning down and pressing her warm, fuzzy head against his. I will always be here. I always have been. However, should you choose to face the threats that loom in the shadows, I will follow you. No questions asked.

"Thank you girl," he sighed, hugging her tightly. She rested her head upon his shoulder, her neck wrapping around him to pull him closer to her chest. For a minute, he closed his eyes, listening to the sound of her brawny heart, her warmth bringing comfort against the cold welcomed with Autumn.

How is our guest faring?

"Wild? He actually spoke for the first time last night! His voice is adorable!" Twi smiled happily. "I wish he'd use it more often though… Something about his past has caused him to fall selectively mute. I just wish I knew what… But I suppose I'll find out soon enough. I told him if he was feeling up to it, he could join us today. What do you say? Would you be willing to accompany him?"

It would be my pleasure. I do not often question your judgment, yet, do you truly believe he is fit to be working at the ranch?

"Oh, no! He'll just be observing. I don't want him hurting himself. It's been four days… He's not fully healed. We wrestled last night and I'm scared to admit I probably hurt him…"

And there we go! Thank you all for reading, following, favoriting, and reviewing! I cannot thank you enough for all your love and support.