Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“A rabbit’s heart beats 120-150 times a minute. Did you know that?”

“I— No….I had no idea…..”

       The sun shined through the small window in between two beds. One of the beds was empty. The other held the sleeping form of Ravio. He had quickly gotten used to sharing a room with Legend. The guy was gone most of the time nowadays, so it didn’t bother him much. Besides, the vet’s uncle’s room was perfect for a storage unit to hold all his products and money.

       Ravio had gotten one hell of a mouthful from Legend about it a few months ago. “Turn your room into an inventory? Are you joking? Where the hell will you sleep?” Legend had pointed out the faults in his plan.

       “I was thinking I could move in here with you, if that’s okay. I know this is a bit of a huge ask, and kind of awkward to be completely honest with you. It would be good for profits though. If I can hold more stuff, I may be able to bring in more customers with bigger rentals. And we usually end up in the same room by the end of the night anyway, so…”

       Legend had attempted to hide a blush when he mentioned that. Sometimes they would knock on each other’s doors when either of them had bad dreams or couldn’t sleep. It happened way more often than the two were willing to admit, but they did tend to share a space for the most part.

       “Okay, fine. But if you even think about kicking me out….You already have my uncle’s old room, the rest of my house, and now half of my bedroom. I’m drawing the line right now.”

“Thank you, Mr. Hero!!!”

       Ravio had turned over to avoid waking in the light. He would have groaned at Sound-Asleep-Legend to close the curtains; however, Legend had been gone on a mission again. He wouldn’t be returning until later that day.

       Later today! Ravio sat up in bed with a start, head pulsating from exhaustion as his eyes jumped excitedly around the room at what needed to be done. I have to tidy up for him. The room’s a mess— the laundry— oh, and the inventory! Everything must be in top shape!

       The bunny hopped up, ignoring the inevitable leaping in his chest that usually came with waking up, and threw on his trousers and boots. Trembling fingers fumbled his laces. There’s so much work. So many rupees to be made. Finished getting dressed, Ravio made his way to the bathroom to brush his teeth and attempt to comb out the knots from his ebony curls.

       His hair had always frustrated him at least a little each day. It was too unruly to tame without a struggle, yet not quite messy enough for the fluffy-unkempt look that Hyrule pulled off so well. Ravio had resorted to putting his face in the sink, just to gain a base to work with. When he had finished wetting his hair, he straightened up and hit his head on the faucet.

       I never fail to mess that up, do I? He shook his head, water dripping down on his shoulders. Why— well now I have to change again. Or I could let it dry, but ugh… I hate wearing wet clothes. Giving up on his hair, Ravio made his way back to his room to put on a new shirt. I’m glad I saved off on equipping my hood and robe. Now where is my scarf….?

       Just then, Ravio heard a knock on the door. Briefly caught off guard, is heart leapt. He put a hand to his chest while breathing out. Who could it be, now? I haven’t opened yet. The bunny dropped his robe and made his way to the door. His heart leapt again.

“Legend?!”

“Surprised I came back early?” The red tunic-clad hero gave a sideways smirk, looking Ravio up and down. “Why are you wet?”

“Huh?”

       Ravio had nearly forgotten about his disheveled appearance upon Legend’s arrival. He didn’t really plan on appearing this way, but it’s not like Legend had any means of giving him a heads up. Regardless of the circumstances and the two’s relationship, it was hard not to be flustered.

       In his nervous excitement, Ravio hardly noticed his lisp returning. “Oh! I’m sorry. I was just getting ready— my hair wasn’t cooperating, so I tried running water through it, but I hit my head on the faucet a-and then my hair dripped on my shirt, but when you came, I was just about to….……” Ravio stopped rambling for a brief moment. “You just wanted to tease me, didn’t you?”

       His Hyrulian counterpart chuckled, arms crossed and violet eyes narrowed, but his stance was playful.

       In childhood, Ravio had been taught a careful enunciation process. He frequently used it to swallow back his speech impairment, however, sometimes Legend would intentionally do things to get Ravio riled up. The vet found it adorable. He wasn’t sure why the bunny would go through lengths to cover it up. It made his voice sound softer. More distinguished. Legend lived to hear that lisp.

       “You can’t live on your own successfully, can you? I guess that’s what you have me for.”

“Huh?”

       While Ravio was still processing, Legend used this chance to play with him further. He pulled the still-soaked-man into a hug, releasing him quickly as to not share the wet with him. He grabbed his arm and lead him back to the bedroom in a single, smooth movement. Ravio let out a surprised yelp at this and followed him.

       Despite his roommate’s jabs at his poor self-care, Ravio knew Legend was only poking fun. I am fully capable of living on my own. He knows that. Who cares if I can be accident prone?

       Once in the bedroom, Legend stopped to look around, dropping his mischievous mannerisms along with Ravio’s arm. The latter leaned over to examine his expression, confused at this sudden halt.

“I promise, I meant to clean up. It was just— you came on such short notice. I can do the laundry right now if you’d like, if that’s what you’re thinking.”

        Legend waved a hand at him. “No, Ravi. It’s okay. I was just….. gods I missed this place. I’m just happy to be home. It’s been months…. Hey, did you ever finish working on that big sign in the back yard?”

“Mmm, which one?”

       Legend frowned. Did he really forget about his own project? “The one you told me about that would bring in more customers?”

       Ravio had started digging through his wardrobe for a new shirt, but stopped halfway. “Oh! That one….um, not exactly…. I was waiting for you. I thought I could use your help with your art skills and the summer heat and all. Did you want to do that today? Or you probably need rest after all that battling you’ve been doing.” He began changing while he waited on a response.

    “I’m fine with doing it whenever you want. This mission wasn’t actually too rough. Compared to usual, anyway.”

       “That’s nice to hear,” Ravio said somewhat absently. He was focused on pulling his robe on. It was harder than it looked considering how big the sleeves were in comparison to his arms. It would typically take a few fumblings to find the right holes before Ravio could slip into it.

       “You’re not going to charge me for the work are you? Because that’s not how labor works.”

       Ravio pulled up his hood, and fastened his belt; the two most favorited parts of his clothing ensemble. Sure, he loved his scarf as well. But it wasn’t near as practical as his bunny ears. Or as shiny as the green rupee encrusted into his smooth, precisely cut leather. Why did materials bring him so much joy?

       They were fun to look at. To feel and to fiddle with. Ravio just couldn’t help but purchase, sell, and collect. It filled him with a feeling he didn’t know how to describe. It was almost like a welling of electricity in his nervous system. It made him want to scream and move frantically in excitement, which was something he had learned to suppress.

       “Who, me? Now, what about me makes you think I’d charge you?” the merchant, full rabbit-mode, put a hand over his heart innocently. Legend crossed his arms and gave him his signature “you’re kidding, right?” face.

“Okay, maybe that’s fair. But no. I wouldn’t. Not unless you wanted me to, anyway.” Ravio added that last part hopefully.

“Pfft, why would I pay you willingly for doing your job? If anything, you’d pay me.”

       “Please don’t….You know I work hard for my profits. Maybe we can settle a deal or something, as long as we both benefit of course. It could be useful for the shop. If you helped me, I could bring in more money, and maybe better quality to the home. I had this other idea, but well…..”

       Ravio ended it there before he could get caught up in another ramble about marketing. He’s heard Legend complain enough to know that it bored him, but it was just something he couldn’t help sometimes. Sales was something he enjoyed deeply. It was…..comforting. In a strange way.

       “I’m just messing with you. Of course I’ll help. You do a lot around here anyway. I mean, besides sales-pitch lectures and hoarding money piles like some sort of rabbit-dragon hybrid.”

       Ravio felt his entire body fill with that excited energy. He put his hands in his sleeves, flapping the ends while bouncing up and down like the bunny he portrayed himself as.

       “Oh! You will?! Thank the gods! We should get started as soon as possible. I have so many ideas for what to put on it. The sign— it will be magnificent !” he gushed, throwing his arms outward in emphasis to the word “magnificent”.

       The overlong sleeves were still covering his hands, making Ravio look like a kid in adult’s clothing. The bunny dropped his arms and cleared his throat, shifting uncomfortably in response to himself. Legend paid no mind to his embarrassment, and instead was amused by his enthusiastic display. He started out into the main shop area, turning to look back as he realized that Ravio wasn’t following.

“Well? Are you coming or not?”

“Oh? Right now ?”

Legend nodded.

“Okay, hold on-“ Ravio darted across the room, clumsily gathering more items than two arms should carry.

       Paint, brushes, cloths, old glasses for water, probably some sort of paint shovel. Is that what they’re called? Paint shovel? No. Paint scalpel.

“Ravio, we don’t need all of that. I have my paint set packed at the front door. Why do you have books and card games?”

“I thought we might want something to do while the paint’s drying. Where did you put the saw?”

“I- the saw? What do we need a saw for?”

“To cut wood. Why else would we need a saw?”

       Legend rolled his eyes and sighed. “It’s out by the oak tree in the back. You’re getting too worked up. If we need anything else, I’ll come back in to grab it.”

       Was he getting worked up? I guess that makes more sense than having to haul the house outside. Ravio took a breath, putting down everything save for three of the paints, one cloth, two water cups, and a big brush that he was sure Legend’s set didn’t have.

“Okay, I’m ready. Let’s go.”

                            ➰➿➰

       The sunshine was blaring. It didn’t take long for either of them to feel it. It was a typical midsummer day in Hyrule, temperatures in the area getting up to around ninety-nine degrees. The oak tree offered enough shade to make conditions livable for Ravio’s project, but with the sun continuing to rise, it would no doubt get hotter.

       Legend had just finished the last stroke of the sign’s priming, when he noticed a change in Ravio’s mood. He was sitting under the tree, completely lulling in the conversation they’d been having about Legend’s mission.

       “—ut the thing was, we told him that whipping the bomb was a bad idea. Of course, none of them fucking listen so Four just—and Wild and Wars got to arguing—when the lozofos blocked the swing—and the rocks barely missed us — uo know what happ—Time just peaced the hell out again, but I don’t blame him……. Hey? You okay? It doesn’t look like you’re really interested.”

       Ravio shook himself out of his daze. “Oh, yeah, no. I’m listening.” He wiped a sleeve across his forehead and tugged at his collar as if it were strangling him. I shouldn’t be sweating this much, should I? “It’s hot out here…”

       Legend wiped his brow and adjusted his grip on the paintbrush. “Bun, you’re sitting in the shade. Try being over here with me. It’s hotter than Din’s bal-“ Ravio’s face flushed.

“Please don’t finish that sentence! Hylia would be displeased,” he interjected before Legend’s statement could escalate.

       “Who gives a shit about her ?” The veteran threw his hands up in emphasis, primmer flinging itself off the end of the bristles. Legend flinched and rubbed at the new paint splatter on his leg. “Honestly, when has she ever brought us any good?”

       “I just….think we shouldn’t mess around with the goddess’s temperament. That’s all. I think we should be smart about the language we use,” the merchant was out of breath speaking. His head held pressure as warmth was smothering his lungs.

       “Sure. Mhm. I’ll be sure to do that,” Legend responded absently. He dropped his current brush into his glass, turning the water an interesting, milky white color. Ravio fixated on it for a few seconds, trying to ignore the increasing feelings of discomfort.

       “Why do you despise the gods and goddesses so much? I get that they took away so much from you. I’m not meaning to minimize your experience— just wanting to fully understand.”

       Legend tensed up at the mention of his losses. “I—“ he sighed, shoulders slumping. The sun continued to beam down, casting heavenly pink and copper glows through every movement Legend’s hair made. It looked so soft. Ravio’s hands demanded to be in it. His fingers twitched as Legend continued with his back turned.

       “You should already understand. If not for your travel to Hyrule, you would have had to go through what I did. And maybe even worse in the state that Lorule was in. Was it Hylia’s fault? I don’t know. Do I care? Hell no. Do I need a scapegoat for my resentment towards the situation. Abso- fucking -lutely.”

       He wasn’t sure if it was the heat or Legend’s statement, but something made Ravio’s stomach turn. He shoved away the feeling, but something else popped up too. A flopping in his chest. Was it anxiety? Guilt maybe? It threatened to suffocate him. It’s all because I couldn’t do anything to help. I’m no hero. I’m just a coward with a sales addiction.

       Ravio stood to make his way over to the vet. He hated the heat, the words, the faces of pain. Maybe that was why his body was panicking. If Ravio could only make it better….. Make Legend better. It’ll all be okay.

       “Ledge, I—“ Thump, thump, thump, thump, thump. He felt the familiar twist of his heart beginning to pound. It was in his head. His ears. His skin. Running like rabbits inside of his body. Ravio froze against the tree with his eyes closed as sensations of dizziness overwhelmed him.

       Thump, thump, thump, thump, thump. Could he breathe? Please not right now. Please not while I’m trying to— his mind clouded over. How long had he paused? Hopefully Legend hadn’t noticed yet. Hot. I’m so hot. I need to sit. Ravio stumbled forward, not sure where he was going or what his goal was.

“What are you doing?” Legend had turned around to see Ravio nearing in.

       I’m not—doing anything. Am I? Whaddis he talking about? Ravio made his way to the ground, leaning against Legend with a hand on his chest, his counterpart trying to lift him off.

“Ravi- seriously? Now’s really not the time for dramatics. We were having a serious conversation.”

       Ravio let his eyes fall closed. He let his breathing run out of control. Thump, thump, thump, thump, thump. It hurt. Every beat was a forceful slam against the inside of his rib cage. Every breath a desperate attempt to slow down the agony of his pulse.

“Rav?” Legend shook him gently. “Ravio?!”

       Realization quickly hit. This wasn’t an act. Of course it wasn’t. Ravio’s breathing was rapid and shallow. His face was far too flushed in comparison to what would be normal for the weather. Quivering hands grasped at his heart and Legend’s sleeve. Was he crying?

“Ravio, what’s wrong? Can you answer? You’re worrying me.”

“I- gasp— my heart-“

“Are you having a heart attack ?” Legend wishes he wasn’t seriously asking that. None of them were anywhere near at risk as far as he knew. “Heat stroke?”

Ravio shook his head. “Too fast- it’s too fast. Again…. ” He practically choked on the last word.

       Legend paled. “Your pulse is too fast?” Please correct me. His hand made its way to the side of his neck. Thump, thump, thump, thump, thump. Far too quick. Dangerously quick. No—everything is fine. Everything should be fine.

“What the hell….” Legend breathed. “Again?! Has it done this before?!”

Ravio nodded weakly. “Go inside,” he practically whispered, lisping again.

“You want me to take you inside?” Legend made sure he understood what he had said.

       Ravio nodded again. Taking him inside was probably a good idea. The heat seemed to be exacerbating it. Legend stood up the best he could with Ravio clinging to him. Once on his feet, he gently hoisted Ravio up, slinging his left arm around his shoulder and wrapping his own arm around the bunny’s waist. Ravio lost his balance, pitching into Legend, who did his best to stabilize him.

“Holy shit , Ravio—You should have told me about this!”

       In all honesty, Ravio didn’t think that was necessary. He’s been like this for years, if not throughout his late childhood. Why was it getting worse now? Was it really that important for people to know? …..maybe it was.

       He felt terrible. He wished he had said something. But it all came on so fast. This is the end of me. I’m dying. Ravio whimpered in Legend’s arms. I’m scared. I don’t want to— I don’t want to die.

       Legend brought him in through the back door. Right upon the doorway, Ravio felt his head float as the room seemed to move in directions he didn’t know how to describe. It happened too fast. Too slow. Altogether. Senses started detaching themselves. He was having trouble telling exactly where he was. Which direction he was standing in. Sit down! I need to sit down! Right now!

       “Fuck! Don’t collapse on me.” Legend moved faster. Urgency increasing with every step.

       Thump, thump, thump, thump, thump. His eyes would no longer focus all the way. As Legend did his best to try to guide him, he felt seconds from falling or running into things.

       Thump, thump, thump, thump, thump. His head went numb. Thump, thump, thump, thump, thump. He could not longer feel his heartbeat. Thump, thump, thump, thump, thump. The sound of shuffling next to him became a distant echo that refused to process itself.

       Thump, thump, thump, thump, thump— He couldn’t— Thump, thump, thump, thump, thump— he can’t —Thump, thump, thump, thump, thump— too quiet, too loud— Thump, thump, thump, thump, thump.

“—mos-there.”

       Snap. Like a band stretched too thin, it broke. Ravio hardly felt a pair of arms bracing him, as all was lost to the underwhelming sensation of an overwhelming pull of his consciousness; as if it were a rug that had been swept out from beneath him.

                            ➰➿➰

       Legend had tried to run him inside as quickly and as carefully as he could. He wasn’t normally the one to panic in emergencies, but the bunny’s pulse was like nothing he had ever felt before. How in the ever loving fuck does a heart beat that fast! How is he not dead yet? Holy hell, this is bad…

       When they reached the back door, Ravio had appeared to have fallen into a partial delirium. Legend held most of his weight as he aimed to get Ravio to his—no— their room, where he could lay down. He just hoped they would make it before he fainted.   

       Ravio’s lower body began faltering, as if he had suddenly gotten confused about how walking worked. He looked terrified, emitting soft, broken cries of panic. Ravio’s legs wobbled over themselves, and the bunny nearly keeled over away from the vet.

  “Fuck! Don’t collapse on me.” Legend picked up the merchant’s slack, pressing on faster. Ravio’s eyes started fluttering. They had just barely made it to the bedroom’s doorway, when Legend noticed the tell-tale signs of unconsciousness were inevitably closing in.

“We’re almost there. Just-” Ravio’s legs gave out entirely. “ Shit -“

       Legend scrambled to catch the rabbit as he fell. Unfortunately, he only managed to get a stable hold of him right after his head pitched forwards into the door frame. Legend had pulled his body back at the last minute, avoiding a hard blow.

       The vet sighed, quickly checking his forehead for signs of injury. Sighing again in relief of the lack of wounds, he half dragged, half carried his counterpart into the safety of his bed.

       So what now? I got him laying down. He’s passed out. His pulse is still too rapid. What do I do about it? Legend thought back to all the times when he had exerted his magic far beyond its limits. A fast heart beat was a primary symptom of that. What did the others do to counteract it? I need to elevate his legs—cool him down. That’s what Hyrule does for me.

       The vet removed Ravio’s scarf and hood. He undid the bunny’s belt and took off his sweat soaked robe and shirt. Speeding to the kitchen, Legend grabbed what he could. Ice, water, cloths . He came back with his materials and got to work dipping the rags in ice water, applying one to his forehead. One on the back of his neck. Two on either side of his under arms.

“Now for the legs…” He stared at Ravio’s still form and muttered to himself.

       Legend considered how he was going to keep his legs up. In the end, he settled on moving Ravio closer to the foot of the bed, lifting his legs and setting them down on the raised bedpost with his pillow beneath for comfort. That should work. He knelt down at the side of his bunny’s bed and checked Ravio’s pulse again on his wrist. Thump, thump. Thump, thump, thump. Thump, thump.

       It was still a bit off rhythm, but definitely slowing down quicker than Legend had expected. Is that it? That’s all it took? He’s getting better now? The vet gently removed the rag from his forehead, smoothing it along the sides of his face and up to his hairline. The man stirred a bit under his touch, and Legend leaned back in a mixture of surprise and great relief.

       He rubbed a thumb against the bunny’s cheek. “Ravio-bun? Are you with me?” Ravio’s eyelids twitched open a bit. He took a long inhale. His lungs filled with air, as his chest rose visibly. Beads of sweat were dampening his bangs, and his face was still a little flushed, but he was conscious now. His pulse had come down out of the danger zone, and he was recovering in double time.

“Mmhugh,” Ravio groaned. Or maybe spoke. It was incoherent.

“Hey, there,” Legend spoke softly to him. “Welcome to the world of the waking. You scared the living hell out of me.”

“I- mfghmm.”

“How are you feeling? Do you remember what happened?” Ravio nodded ever so slightly.

“Why’re m’ legs up?” he muttered. He stirred a bit more in his position, putting a hand to his forehead and filling his body up with air again.

“I was trying to get your heart rate down. Seems it worked. Can you still feel it?”

       Ravio nodded again. “I want my hood.”

“You can have it once you’ve recovered. I don’t want you to overheat again.”

“Mhmmf, ’m thirsty.”

“I can get you some water. I’ll be right back.”

       Legend left the room, reluctant to leave his housemate on his own, but wanting to help his condition as much as possible. When he returned, Ravio was trying to sit up, an awkward motion due to his instability and the fact that his legs were still elevated.

“Woah, hold on a sec, buddy. You were just out a minute ago. Take it easy there.”

       Legend set the glass on one of the bedside tables and helped Ravio bring his legs down. The vet took the merchant by his arms and assisted him to lean against the head of the bed.

       Rags fell off, and Legend grabbed his pillow to prop his rabbit-man up. Collecting the cloths and handing Ravio the water, he sat down next to him on the edge of the bed. Ravio gulped the drink down gratefully and shivered a little. “You cold now?” Legend asked.

       Ravio shrugged. He was still shirtless, and blushed upon realizing this. Legend went into Ravio’s wardrobe to give him a clean top.

       “I’ve gone through three of these today. I wish I could say that’s a record.” His voice was still a bit breathy, the slight lisp he had presenting itself strongly as he struggled with the complicated movements of articulation.

       The vet chuckled without sound, rubbing the Lorulian’s back. There were still a bunch of questions pressed on Legend’s mind that he wanted to ask him.

“So, you said this has happened before? Has it ever been this bad?”

        Ravio thumbed the edge of his glass nervously. “Not this bad exactly….but I’ve had a fast heart before.”

“Why didn’t you tell anyone? If I’d known, I would have helped you get a doctor or something. You know that fast pulses like that are dangerous, right? I was worried your heart would beat out.” Legend’s voice broke on the end of his words.

       He was scared for his bunny, but also angry that his fears could have been easily avoided by seeking a medic sooner. Why was he like this? Why were either of them like that? Why couldn’t they just communicate better?

         “I-I didn’t know it was that bad. I thought I just had some sort of stress reaction or something. I didn’t know- I didn’t think it was serious.“ Ravio’s eyes glistened with the start of tears that he immediately swallowed back. How stupid do I have to be to think that was NORMAL? I should have said something. My life could have been in danger. It might have been…

“How fast does your heart normally beat?”

       Ravio gazed down at his hands as they continued to fiddle with his empty water glass. “I don’t- maybe somewhere around 110 beats a minute if I’m not doing anything, but I don’t know if that’s accurate. I’ve only checked a few times. It gets faster when I’m active or emotional.”

       “You’re pulse was a bit less than double that. It nearly broke 180.” Legend fixed him with a concerned stare. Ravio tried to laughed, but it lacked humor. The vet glared him harder.

“A rabbit’s heart beats 120-150 times a minute. Did you know that?”

Legend’s mind sputtered at this random piece of information. He shook his head, as if shaking away the stern expression. “I— No….I had no idea…..”

       “I have the heart of a rabbit. I find that hilariously ironic.” Ravio presented Legend with a broken smile. “ The very thing in which you hold too much value, you may come to rue… .I forget where I read that phrase. It was one of the many books I resold.”

“You’re not going to rue this. I’m taking you to Renado once you feel well enough to travel.”

       “Who’s Renado?” Legend had to be making up names. No Renado existed here, as far as Ravio knew. And he knew basically everyone. In shops, out of shops. Throughout different towns even. His traveling had made him surprisingly social despite his nervous demeanor. Now he rarely left the house unless it was to gather more items to rent out. Is there someone new I haven’t met yet?

“It’s a friend of Twilight’s. He’s a renowned physician and shaman in his Hyrule. I can’t think of anyone more suited to figuring this out.”

       “You’d take me to travel between worlds just for this?” The merchant was flattered that Legend cared that much, but he found the lengths a bit unnecessary. World hopping was a tiring process for the vet, and Ravio knew that. It brought back many unpleasant memories for him. “You’re sure you’d do that for me?”

“Of course I would! This is your health we’re talking about! I don’t want to see you taken down by this again.”

“Oh, Ledge— I-I don’t know what to say. You’re willing to sacrifice your comfort and energy for someone like me, I- I’m speechless….”

“Pfft. Well, obviously not, since you’re rambling again.”

Ravio pouted. “You know what I meant.”

Legend chuckled. “Get some rest, Bun. I’ve got to tell the others once they get here. Mainly Twilight, since that’s who’ll take us. I’ll let you know when we’ll leave.”

Ravio yawned, “Okay, go’night.”

“It’s noon,” Legend deadpanned.

“Go’night,” Ravio repeated stubbornly, turning over and snuggling into his covers.

       Once he thought for sure that Ravio was asleep, Legend leaned over him to check his pulse again. Thump, thump. Thump, thump. Thump, thump. Relatively normal, but still fast for sleeping. The vet breathed out in satisfaction, scooching Ravio over and laying down facing him.

       Legend planted a soft kiss on the edge of Ravio’s mouth, and decided to fall asleep with him. Before he did, he felt the bunny shift again, reaching a hand to his red tunic and pressing his palm on the veteran’s chest. You’re not really asleep, are you? That trickster. I should have known from the pulse.

       Legend smiled, and ran a hand through his raven locks. The curls had dried nicely on their own. Ravio muttered a slurred “I love you” or something of that nature, and they both fell asleep entangled in each other.

Chapter Text

       Master had been very busy lately. Business had him pushing himself to his limits. I could sense his heartbeat when it got fast, but he refused to admit that it was affecting him. The night before second Master arrived, he sent me on an adventure to find more shiny things! But sadly, when I returned through the window that evening, he was gone. I could feel it in my feathers that something had happened.

       My wings fluttered as I flit up and down around the room, chirping for my Master Ravio. Where are you? Where have you gone? There was a note on the nestside table, written in my language. Master left me instructions! Instructions was a poor word to describe it. I landed in front of the paper.

       The note read:

       Dearest Sheerow, I apologize for my disappearance. I’m sure you have sensed that my heart is not at it’s best. Ledge and I have traveled to find a doctor who can help. I promise I’ll be okay, but I need you to take care of the place until we return.

                 - Ravio

       I chirped a small cry. Something had happened to Master Ravio. He didn’t leave me any details. I still didn’t know where he had gone, so I couldn’t get to him. The house started feeling small. Like a cage. Master! Master! I have to find my Master! I need to make sure he’s safe!

       I flapped around the room in an instinctual panic. My feathers ruffled themselves, and I dove towards the window, only to find that it had closed itself. I knew because I flew into the glass. I shook my head, managing to stay airborne, and perched on the sill. My eyes longed for the outdoors, but I had to remind myself of the invisible man-made force field that kept me trapped inside.

       Master will let me out when he comes back. He wants me to take care of his stuff. I gazed around the room. Master Ravio’s clothes were still in a basket on the floor, mixed in with second Master’s. Second Master had left art supplies on his sleeping nest.

       I left the window sill and began tugging the clothes out with my beak. Masters will be so proud of me! I might even get extra seeds for my work! I lacked the human hands for folding, but I made due with setting each piece down on the ground and flipping them over a few times.

       I quickly got the hang of this method, chirping and flapping my wings in excitement. Look at me, being so helpful! I’m definitely getting rewarded! Master Ravio will be so happy, he’ll forget all about his ailments!

       After each “fold”, I laid the article down in a drawer. I wasn’t exactly sure what was what, but I did my best matching the colors and materials. The last drawer of the wardrobe was the hardest to pull open. The knobs were a bit bigger, and barely fit in my beak. But I managed, and eventually I was done.

       I didn’t know where second Master Legend kept his art stuff, so I settled for neatly gathering everything at the edge of the sleeping nest. There was a bowl of water on the floor next to Master Ravio’s sleeping nest, and I took care of it the only way I could think of.

       I flew to the food room and grabbed some cloths, sopped up the water from the bowl until it was light enough for me to carry, then used my claws to lift it. It took a few tries, and I sloshed some water on the rug on accident. But the bowl was mostly empty by then, so I flew it to the dish bath in the food room. Now I just have to wait for them to return. If my beak could smile, it would have.

                         ➰➿➰

       When Legend and Ravio returned home late that night, they were promptly met by an excited Sheerow. Chirp, chirp, chirp, chirp! Chirp, chirp!!! He flapped his wings frantically while darting up and down in front of the bunny.

       “Whoa, hey! Sheerow, I’m fine. See?” Ravio gestured to himself. The bird calmed down for a few seconds before starting up again.

       Chirp, chirp, chirp!

       “Hmm? You cleaned the house for us?” Sure enough, when they entered the bedroom, they saw an empty laundry basket. Legend’s things were organized at the end of his bed. The bowl of water that Legend had been using while Ravio was unconscious had disappeared. The water spot on the carpet had long since dried.

       Chirp, chirp, chirp! Chirp. Chirp, chirp. Sheerow was obviously pleased with himself. He was soaring in circles above their heads, chirping about how he had helped them while they were away. Ravio opened his wardrobe, examining the few robes he had hanging up. He chuckled lightheartedly.

       “Sheerow, where did you put all my robes? I had more than this in the basket.”

       Legend had began silently collecting his art supplies to put away in the closet. Sheerow continued chirping. The merchant shook his head and smiled in response to his bird, opening his drawers to find all his robes half folded, in with his pants.

       “For future reference, I keep these on hooks.” Ravio gathered all the purple clothing and began transferring them. “You did well, Sheerow. Don’t worry about it. Here.” Ravio reached into his pocket and pulled out a small pouch of treats. Sheerow squawked and immediately perched on his head, as Ravio held a few out to him.

       “Do I have to make sure he didn’t mix mine up too?” Legend laughed. He pulled his drawers open one after another, finding only one error that he promptly corrected.

       “Well, I guess it’s a bit hard to mess up red, black, and no pants,” Ravio snorted.

       “Hey, shut up, rabbit!— I mean— Sorry, you’re no better with your outfits is what I mean,” the vet carefully corrected himself. Revising his jabs? Seriously?

       Ravio flipped him off with a smirk, attempting a better reaction. Legend bumped him playfully, causing Sheerow to take to the air again. Now we’re talking. Ravio looked at his bird, frowning. “That wasn’t very nice of you. You made ‘row feel unstable.” He pushed the vet back, the two nearly erupting into a full on roughhouse, but Legend, of all people, stopped it.

       “I don’t think we should do that. Renado said activity was a trigger for you. We should be getting to bed soon anyways.”

       Ravio sighed. Was Legend switching up on him? That’s not the hero I fell in love with. He finished correcting his laundry, letting Sheerow out through the window again to explore, and changed into his nighttime clothes. Legend followed suit, stripping his red tunic in favor of just his under shirt. They both said their good nights, but only Legend fell asleep.

       Has he changed? It’s probably just me. Or maybe it was earlier today. But that should pass, shouldn’t it? All I know is that Legend’s never been the type to shut down a faux fight like that. For Din’s sake…holding back on teasing? It’s not like him at all…. I hope to gods this wears off. I want my Ledge. Not this watered down protective version.

        Ravio’s ears rang in the silence. The only other noise he could hear was the sound of his thoughts buzzing. He tuned it out. Disconnecting from the ringing. The buzzing. The sound of his own heart, reminding him of his new reality. The merchant heaved a breath and stared at the ceiling until his eyes would no longer remain open.

Chapter Text

       Ravio’s Shop was bustling for the first time in a while. It was a bit inconvenient, really. He loved seeing so many faces getting roped into all the products. Merchandise sat dazzling on the cleanest of white table cloths. Eyes of all sorts of colors and emotions, peering interested in every shine reflecting off of the metal items the bunny had collected. For days like this, where my shop is jumping with appreciative spirits. I was careful to select and sell only the best of the best!

       However, Legend had been reluctant to let him do too much on his own. Ever since the day the sun had set off his heart. Ravio was fine, really. But Legend had been there when Renado looked him over.

       “Not life threatening. However, it threatens his quality of life. His pulse appears to rest too high and increases more when he stands. I suggest Ravio keeps a hydration regimen and avoids anything that could trigger symptoms. That can include heat, stress, and prolonged activity.”

       Ravio’s life had seemed to change since then. The vet kept on him about overworking and took time out of his days to remind him to drink water. Ravio had been scolded by Legend several times for bouncing around the shop too much, and frankly, it was starting to become tedious.

       The bunny sat behind one of the counters on a stool bench (that Legend demanded he use). It was late afternoon, and the rush had started to slow down since that morning, with only a few customers entering at a time.

       Despite the busy sales that day, Ravio couldn’t help but feel sullen. He rested his chin in his hand and sighed, restlessly tapping his fingers against the wooden table in patterns of two. He was only half-watching the single customer who was shopping about.

       “What’s wrong, Ravi? I thought you liked busy days,” Legend asked the sad rabbit. Legend slid onto the bench next to him.

       “Nothing,” Ravio perked himself up. “I do. It’s just- never mind. I’m great!” Legend analyzed him skeptically as Ravio gave an unconvincing smile. Please just leave me alone and stop worrying. I can do things myself.

       “Hey, does anybody actually work here? This item doesn’t have a price on it….” a redheaded woman in an emerald green robe had been looking around for assistance.

       “My apologies!” Ravio stood and walked away before Legend could have the chance to pull him back into the seat. “A busy day it’s been at the shop. Yes, I’ll have that right out for you ma’am. Again, my apologies,” he addressed the woman kindly, taking the item and disappearing into the back for a minute.

       The woman stood looking around until Ravio returned to hand her the product. It was a lovely necklace of silver and amethyst, given to Ravio by a strange man he had met in the village outskirts. The lady he had planned to give it to had died of illness before the gift could be given. Ravio had sat and listened to him ramble about her in kindness, earning the necklace in return for his ear.

       Upon returning, Ravio tripped over himself and fumbled the necklace, but managed to catch it midair. He pretended not to notice his own klutz-up. “I’m sorry about that. So much work. Things get missed. You know how it is.”

       “Yes, I do. Thank you.” The redhead continued to gaze around, almost nostalgic in her mood. “You know, my twin brother used to run a shop like this not too long ago.”

       “Did he now? Sounds like a man of taste. Sales really is an art form not many can appreciate.” Ravio folded his hands politely.

       “Yes, well, he had to give it up. He was diagnosed with a heart condition that wouldn’t allow him to stand for too long.”

       Ravio felt his pulse skip, as if to remind him: Hey! You have that too! “Oh, well that’s very unfortunate. I wish him the best with that. I really do sympathize.”

       “Thank you…Ravio? That’s your name isn’t it? Ravio’s Shop.”

    “T-that would be me—of course, yes—Ravio’s Shop. I am Ravio. Only one me! Take no imposter’s products!” he stammered and pointed to the object. “Are you wanting to purchase that?”

       “Oh, why yes. I would. I think my girlfriend would love it,” the lady smiled.

       Ravio escorted the kind woman to the checkout counter, passing Legend on the way over. Legend crossed his arms in a look of exasperation, and Ravio gestured sharply to the woman behind her back, putting a shushing finger over his mask. The vet stuck out his tongue in response, which Ravio ignored. Once behind the counter, he quickly regained his merchant image.

       “Oh, good gods! I nearly forgot to mention! We’re having a two and one deal this week!” He made a dramatic gesture to the entirety of the room. “If you buy two products, you can get one for the price of one!”

       “That’s not how deals work, Ravio. Your just trying to sell her three items,” Legend interjected. “You said two and one, not two for one. I know what you’re doing.”

       The Lady chuckled in amusement. “And here I was, thinking that sign out front meant there was a purchase restriction. How about I do a two for two ? Two for the price of two. I’ll take……” She stepped away from the counter in search of another purchase. “This candle? It has a nice design on it. I’d love to have this on my shelf.”

       Ravio blinked at her willingness to spend. If he were in a cartoon, there would have been rupees in his eyes. She must be rich! Oh, how I love rich customers! They’re always so interesting!!! And they don’t scoff at my prices. How do I make this one loyal to the establishment? Legend flicked a piece of crumpled paper at him. It bounced off the top of Ravio’s hood. Was I staring? I wasn’t staring was I? The merchant shook his head.

       “Y-yes, absolutely! I’d be happy to sell it to you! This is my shop after all.” He gestured around the room. “So the necklace and the candle. Will that be all for you toda-“

       “Just let her pay for her stuff,” Legend rolled his eyes. There was a pause in the room. Both Ravio and the woman stared at him. Ravio in shock, and the woman in confusion. “What?” Legend asked.

       Ravio was used to having Legend in the shop with him, but usually he was in the back or just popping in every now and then. Now it seemed he was there constantly. He knew his roommate was just concerned for his health, but interfering with sales? That was too much. Please stop! You’re going to weird her away! I need this opportunity! Ravio gulped before clearing his throat to break the silence.

       “Would you like a bag for that? It’s only two rupees.” Legend opened his mouth, and Ravio shot him a glare that was evident, even with his hood up. The woman chuckled nervously.

       “Well, this is a bit awkward. No thank you. I think I can carry it home without.”

       Ravio flushed under the hood, but maintained his composure. “That’ll be 7,000 rupees. I appreciate your business. Come back to see us soon.” He handed off the items. As soon as the woman left, Ravio ripped his hood off and turned to the vet.

       “Are you kidding me?! What were you doing? Are you trying to drive off my customers on purpose?! ” The rabbit half shouted, making wide gestures with his arms.

       “No- Ravio, I-“

       “Just shut up, and stay out of my work for Din’s sake! I was trying to gain a loyal customer!” Ravio cut him off.

       Legend stood, raising his voice. “Ravio, I wasn’t trying to ruin your transactions. I swear . I just think people deserve to have fair serv—“

       “I don’t give a fuck what you were trying to do! That woman felt awkward around us! I don’t know if she’s even going to come back after that— I don’t think I want you to come back anymore. You keep hovering around me, sabotaging my shop— you’re breathing down my neck about taking care of myself! Well, I can do that on my own! I’M NOT A CHILD, LEGEND!”

       Ravio took a harsh breath. His heart was leaping faster than he could count the beats. His whole body shook from the boiling combination of adrenaline and tachycardia. Ravio expected Legend to yell back. To retaliate. Maybe even hit him. Instead, Legend blanched, falling back into his seat in shock.

        “I-I’ve never seen you this angry about anything ,” the vet half-whispered.

       Ravio nodded, unsure what he was nodding at as hyperventilation set in. Am I  angry? I- I never get angry. Am I allowed to be…Of course, but no. I don’t think it’s about that at all. The dam broke, and Ravio collapsed to his knees. Shaking, sobbing, breathing rapidly. Legend jumped up from his seat, flipping the closed sign before running over to him.

       “Hey, Bun! It’s okay. It’s all going to be okay.”

       “No it’s not!” Ravio gasped.

       “I know the feeling, but I promise it will be.”

       “Ledge—I-I’m not really m-mad at you— I just-“ sobs wracked his body, and Legend pulled him close, rocking him gently.

       “I know, Bun. I know you’re not. You’ve pent up. I get it.” He understood all too much. Lashing out. Taking things out onto others. Sometimes anger is really just bottled up hurt in disguise.

       “Her brother had to close up shop for his condition— I don’t— I don’t want— it’s not—I don’t—“ with hurried speech, Ravio’s lisp had returned fully and entirely. Rather than enjoying its presence like usual, Legend’s heart shattered at the sound of his voice.

       “I know, but you don’t have to if you don’t wanna. We’ll make it work. I promise.” Ravio pulled away from Legend, who wiped tears from his cheeks with gentle thumbs.

       “Ledge— I’m scared. I don’t want everything to change. I liked how things were- I wanna go back, I wanna-“ Ravio began wailing again. His hands were suddenly gripped into fists that were pounding the ground as he rocked back and forth violently. He dropped his head in his hands, pulling at his hair while tears continued to stream out.

       “Woah, hey! Nothing has to change! You’ve been living with this for a long time already. I had no idea I was smothering you, but I can step back. I just don’t want to see you like this.”

       Ravio’s crying began slowing down at this, but his breathing remained heavy. He had stopped punching and pulling his hair, but remained rocking and whimpering softly.“You don’t mean that, do you? You’re not going to get too worried about me anymore?”

       I’ve been so afraid of change. Why? Sure, change is scary, but it shouldn’t be the end of the world. So why does it feel that way…..like everything I know is crumbling? Nothing makes sense this way. If Legend could keep his word, maybe everything will be okay….

       “You’re managing to fall apart without fainting right now, so I don’t think I have anything to worry about.”

       The broken merchant sniffled a bit before falling into Legend’s lap, proceeding with his sobs, only inaudible now. Legend ran his fingers through his hair. It was a bit tangled, but soft, the shop lights putting glints of dark purple through the faint highlights.

       The Hylian’s fingers stopped for a minute as he stared at his Lorulian counterpart, no longer breaking down in hysterics. Before Legend knew what he was doing, he leaned down and planted a kiss on his forehead. Then another. Then one on his cheek.

       “Ledge….what are you doing?” Ravio’s voice sounded nasally, but Legend thought that added more of a cuteness factor than anything. He was like a wounded puppy, the veteran’s heart demanding to hold and cuddle him until he was better.

       “Do you want me to stop?” Ravio shook his head and sat up to face him better. Tears ceased. Legend picked up where he left off. Kissing his cheek, then the corner of his lips.

       “Kiss my talk-hole already,” Ravio murmured.

       “Shut up,” he teased. “I am.” Legend gave a sideways smile, and played with the ends of the merchant’s hair a bit.

       He made his way to Ravio’s mouth, and they shared a soft kiss for a couple seconds before Legend reached his jawline.

       “Take your shirt off,” Legend instructed.

       Ravio blushed and shook his head. He wanted to, but I don’t know. It seems to soon. Maybe not the right time. Not after he just saw me in this state….it wouldn’t be what I imagined.

       “Not ready for that yet? That’s okay.” Legend went back to Ravio’s mouth. This is perfect. It’s everything. It’s not enough.

       “Your face tastes like salt,” Legend informed him.

       “I was just crying a minute ago,” Ravio lisped.

       This time, Legend smiled hearing it. “I know. You seem tired. Did you want to sleep?” Ravio shook his head but yawned. He leaned against Legend’s chest, playing with the collar of his tunic.

       “I want you to tell me a story from your adventures. I know I said I’m not a child, but I don’t know…..you make me feel like one sometimes……the way you take care of me.”

       “Is that okay? Do I need to work on that?”

       Ravio shook his head. “It’s perfect.”

Chapter Text

       Jeez. How many people can fit in this shop at a time is what I’m wondering? Legend shoved his way through a group of customers to get to the Chain. Ravio was at the right hand display, striking up a conversation with a few of the members. Namely Four and Warriors, who were admiring a new bomb collection of his.

       The others wandered around looking at the various products in smaller huddles. Time and Wild at the bows; Sky, Twilight, and Hyrule looking at pieces of jewelry, shiny and rusty, jabbering on about metal quality and love interests.

       Wind was sporting around on his own, grabbing things to mess with as Ravio eyed him tentatively from across the room ensure sure he didn’t break anything. 200 rupees plus double the cost of the item if he did. With nothing else to do, Legend decided to approach Ravio.

       “Ah! Yes! If you throw one of these towards enemies at long range, not only will it detonate. It will spark a damage spell as well. It’s very useful when battling hordes.” Ravio nodded at his own statement in an odd, matter of fact manner, his hands folded in front of him. Sheerow tweeted excitedly and landed on his head, adding to his strange appearance.

         “Hey! Please put that down if you will. Those are fragile!” Ravio tilted his chin above his audience of two, lifting himself on the balls of his feet to wave an open palm down at a disappointed sailor. Sheerow temporarily took flight as Ravio’s head moved, before resettling himself on his little hood-perch.

       Wind scoffed and returned an old wooden mask to its shelf next to its brethren, crossing his arms in a pout. “You’re kidding. Fragile wood? I can’t touch anything in here, can I? Stupid bunny.”

       “Why, that’s not very kind of you.”

       Shit . Wind was hoping Ravio didn’t hear him.

       “I would appreciate if my products not be used as playthings. Unless you can afford material damage, I’d refrain from touching. Instead, look only with your eyes, hmm?” He turned back to his pitch, half of his attention still lingering on the young hero. “Anyway, as we had been discussing before-“

       “So hordes you say?” The captain crossed his arms and nudged Four with his shoulder. “Got plenty of those to deal with, huh? Whadda you say, Smithy? We might take?” He flashed a toothy grin. He must think he’s so adorable right now , Legend rolled his eyes as he butted in from behind, standing in between Four and Warriors.

       “I say we already have enough of those. Ravi’s gonna overprice you anyway,” the vet interjected. The three turned around at hearing his voice.

       “Hey! No I’m not!” Ravio shifted, that other half of his attention falling away from Wind’s worry-inducing shenanigans, as he turned his whole mind towards the accusation. Sheerow startled a bit at his sudden change in posture, readjusting himself on the bunny’s hood. Ravio’s face couldn’t be seen, but if he looked as offended as he sounded, they were about to get a mouthful of tongue-fumbled speech from him. Luckily, Warriors prevented that.

       “‘Ravi?’ Pffft! You guys are cute.” Wars ruffled Legend’s hair as Four stood there watching awkwardly.

       “Oh, shut up, Mr. I’m-hiding-from-my-ex-girlfriend.” He shoved the hand away.

       “Ow, that hurt.” Warriors put a hand to his heart, but his sarcastic expression didn’t match the wounded gesture. Four cleared his throat and turned the subject away from the two’s……bickering? He couldn’t tell if they were joking or not. Regardless, it was definitely exhausting to keep up with. A valid reason to move the conversation along.

       “So….how’s the bunny been doing? I heard you were diagnosed with a heart condition. Is that going okay?” Four addressed Ravio with his eyes. At this, the merchant started fiddling.

       “It’s taken some adjustments, but I’ll be alright. Legend has me drinking water every half hour and taking small breaks to sit.” Sheerow chirped and preened the ears of Ravio’s hood. “Right, and Sheerow’s been helping too. He can sense when my heartbeat gets too fast. He’s been very essential in notifying me over the past month.”

       Ravio reached into the pocket of his robe to retrieve Sheerow’s treat pouch. He counted out three special seeds, holding out an open palm to his little feathered friend.

       Sheerow gently pecked the seeds out of his hand and ruffled those feathers in satisfaction before flying off towards the bedrooms. The bunny watched as his bird left, throwing his hands out in exasperation and almost tossing the tiny bag in the process. “Sheerow, where are you going?” This time, Ravio’s offense was obvious.

       Four chuckled. “It’s like being betrayed by a cat, isn’t it?”

       Ravio straightened up his posture and waved his free hand in an attempt to appear nonchalant. Something he almost never was. “Well, never mind that. He’s probably just finding a blanket to nest in.” The pouch disappeared back into his robe, and Ravio tapped his finger tips together, returning to business. “I have more rarities if any of you are interested!”

        “I think we’re good for now,” Legend replied for the three of them. Four and Warriors nodded in agreement as Ravio drooped almost visibly.

       “That’s okay. You can always come back if you change your mind. My shop is open on weekdays from 10am-5pm. Although I’m willing to make exceptions for brief business. For an additional charge of course. After-hour work isn’t free, you must know. And how many shops do you know of that offer that amenity?”

       “Lots,” Warriors deadpanned.

       “I see….. Although, you’d guess a bit of competition never hurts a business.” Ravio sounded unsure, but kept his bravado.

       “Actually, that might be a problem. Maybe lower your prices?” Warriors suggested with a ghost of a smirk.

       “In this economy? You’re lucky to get my generous rates, I say. These items are one of a kind!” He gestured grandly to the entirety of the room, as he does with each customer.

       “Mhm, sure. Definitely lucky. Your rates are very generous,” Legend stepped forward and grabbed Ravio by the upper arm, attempting to lead him away from Four and Warriors.

       “Why, they are! If you had the knowledge of a merchant, you would understand in this meticulous industry—“ Ravio resisted against Legend by planting his feet. Gods, how is he so heavy?! The guy’s a short twig!

       “—and there’s the cost of merchandise that I must outmatch with the profit—“ Ravio had begun using his free hand to count off the reasons for his pricing as Legend tuned him out trying to get him moving. “It’s all a very delicate balance, if you can comprehend— everything involved-”

       Legend yanked his arm, causing Ravio, who was still preoccupied with his lecture, to pitch into him. Finally. The vet began pulling him forward, Ravio hardly paying attention to anything aside from his own voice.

       “—Obviously, I have a business to maintain. If you think about it long enough from a consumer perspective, it really is more of a service than a corporation— Wait, where are you taking me?”

       Now he notices? Legend stopped in his tracks. Where was I taking him? “It’s almost closing time, and you need to keep up with hydration,” he invented. Ravio sighed, breaking away to travel to the front of the shop. He stopped, facing the room, and cleared his throat.

       “Attention guests. It is currently 4:55, which means the shop will be closed in 5 minutes. If you have anything you’d like to purchase, please make your way to the counter, and I will assist you with your transaction. Thank you for shopping at Ravio’s Shop! Only one me, take no imposter’s products!

       And don’t forget, Ravio is available 24/7 with an additional after hours service fee of 900 rupees, kindly. And if you sign up for a Ravio subscription, you can get 2 rupees off that amount—” Ravio continued to speak for most of the remaining time, but Legend tuned him out.

       It was an unchanging script that the bunny used every evening. By now, they both could probably recite it in their sleep. Blah, blah, blah—shop. Blah, blah, blah— products. Blah, blah, blah— rupees, fees, etcetera. The chain gathered together, still in their groups from before, but in closer proximity behind Legend.

       “‘A Ravio subscription?’” The veteran overheard Sky whispering to Hyrule, as if he would know.

       “Sounds like paying more for less if you ask me,” Four had joined Sky and Hyrule’s group as Twilight gravitated towards Time and Wild, Warriors joining him along as well. “20 rupees for a subscription, and only 2 off 900. Tsk.” Four shook his head as he reviewed the math aloud. Wind attached himself behind Four, still sulking from earlier.

       “He’s just greedy. He wouldn’t even let me try on a mask. He kept talking about ‘material damage’ and saying that I was trying to use his stuff as playthings. Like, what the hell? I don’t even use playthings anymore. How old does he think I am?”

       “Censor,” Four prompted.

       “Sorry, what the fuck ?” Wind set his jaw with his rebuttal.

       “That’s better.” Hyrule pat Wind’s shoulder while trying unsuccessfully to holding in laughter. Four whipped his head around.

       “See, this is why people treat you like a kid. I shouldn’t have to parent you two. If you’d just act more mature every now and then—”

       “—nd I hope everybody has a nice evening! Come back to see me soon! I’m always willing to make prof— ha, I mean— help a pal! Of course. Gods…” Ravio palmed his hooded face at his near fuck-up, hoping nobody noticed.

       Finally finished with his announcement, Ravio headed to the shop counter, and began checking people out. The line was like nothing Ravio had seen before. He had gotten more used to the bustle, ever since his shop had taken off. However, busier days such as this one never failed to surprise him.

       Of course, people are pulled into my amazing commerce! But before, well it was mainly Mr. Hero who was in need of equipment. At this rate, I’ll be the richest man in Hyrule!!! Oh, how I love this turnout! People are quite generous nowadays!

       Without warning, Wild had stomped ahead of the queue, carrying an armful of products as Ravio pulled himself out of his giddy thoughts. He shoved through to the counter, cutting off the customers in line.

       “Hey! Watch it!”

       “Wait in line like everyone else!”

       “What do you think you’re doing? We’ve been standing here!”

       “Don’t bother with it. I wouldn’t buy anything. This guy’s a walking scam if I’ve ever seen one,” Wild snipped. He dumped the items he was holding onto the counter and stared Ravio down.

       “Wha—h-how may I help you?” Ravio stammered, leaning away from the harsh expression he was receiving.

       “‘How may I help you?’” Wild mocked him with wavy gestures, eye-rolls punctuating each syllable. “What does this look like to you?!” He picked up a tablet from the items he had been holding, thrusting the object into his face and forming daggers with his eyes.

       “Um— oh, that unique product….it looks to be some sort of advanced technology. I haven’t quite figured it out yet, heh….. Are you perhaps interested?”

       “ Product?! It’s called a Sheikah slate! And it’s MINE!” Wild shoved the slate into Ravio’s chest, causing him to flinch as he was forced to hold onto the item. “A stupid bird flew into my window one morning and took it into a gateway! I should have known it was yours. I had to try to chase after it, because Twilight wouldn’t let me shoot it down! ”

       Bystanders stared at the scene. The bunny shifted nervously under the eyes in the room, but he was far more concerned about Wild’s last statement. His face had paled at the prospect of Sheerow’s potential death. “You-you would have shot my dear Sheerow?! You can’t really mean that! For Din’s sake— He was just scavenging! He’s a bird!” Wild’s eyes narrowed. Legend came to stand next to Wild, ready to hold him back in case he snapped completely.

       “He’s your scavenger, isn’t he? He’s the one who steals things for you to sell? And apparently, he knows well enough to collect rentals from people if they break the agreement,” Wild pointed out fairly, although the tone was still very bitter.

       Ravio’s free hand went to the back of his neck, rubbing anxiously while his face flushed under the hood. “Well— never mind that.” He attempted to change the subject off of Sheerow’s cognitive abilities. “I tell you what, I can price it down a few rupees for you if you’d like— I’m willing to work a deal-“

       Wild’s face twisted. Legend snapped an arm out, restraining him around the waist as he attempted to lunge at the merchant. “I’M NOT GOING TO PAY FOR MY OWN SLATE, YOU SLIMY, UGH— LISP-FACED— LET GO OF ME!!! LET ME SHOW HIM—“ Lisp-faced?! Seriously? That was a low blow. Even for an angry Wild. Legend readjusted his grip, attempting to pull the knight closer, but one of his arms slipped and Wild nearly broke free.

       “Agh!” Ravio jumped back with a startled shout, dropping the slate on the counter and throwing his arms up to protect his face. Time and Warriors had stepped in quickly to help Legend, grabbing Wild’s shoulders on either side. Customers filed out of line, falling back to let the heroes come forward and handle the situation. Wild continued to struggle against the arms that braced him in place.

       “We’re not letting you go until you get a hold of yourself,” Time spoke firmly but gently.

       “THAT FUCKING RABBIT—PSEUDO HERO NERVE SACK—SPOILED LETTUCE FOR BRAINS—“

       “I know. Just calm down, and we’ll get your slate back.” Eventually, Wild stopped fighting and took a deep breath. The hero of time nodded to Warriors, signaling to let go.

       Ravio stood far behind the counter, shocked and shaking. He- he could have killed me. Was he armed? Who am I kidding? He’s a soldier. He’s always armed. Oh, dear—He could have killed me easily! Ravio could hardly hear anything beyond his own shallow breaths and the sound of his heart palpitating. Sheerow had reappeared from who knows where, landing on his shoulder and nudging the side of his hood with his head.

       “I know. I can feel it,” he whispered to his bird. “I’ll sit in a minute. I’ll be fine, I think.” Sheerow chirped in disapproval before giving up and taking to the air next to him. He continued chirping what seemed like an apology. It’s not your fault, Sheerow. You didn’t even know which Hyrule you were in. You didn’t mean to cause any trouble. I forgive you, and I’m glad you’re okay.

       Chatter filled the air in the room. People had started setting their items down and leaving without paying. The rest of the crowd save for the chain had followed suit and made their way to the doors. The eight who remained had collectively circled around Wild in order to make sure he had truly calmed down.

       “I’m fine now. I just want to apologize.”

       “Are you sure? You’re not just gonna go over there and hit ‘em, are you?” Warriors eyed him skeptically.

       “I wasn’t gonna hurt him bad anyway. Just let me go get my slate at least.” Warriors and Legend shared a wordless conversation.

Warriors: He does look calm now. Should we let him? It would be a good chance for them to talk it out….

Legend: That’s a terrible idea. He needs more time. You know how good at pretending he is.

Warriors: When else are we going to be here again? Seriously, I’m not coming back without a better reason.

       “Fine. Okay, sure. I’m coming with though,” Legend decided. He then addressed Wild. “If you want to apologize, I don’t mind you doing that. But I’m not leaving you alone with him.”

       Wild nodded. The two headed back to Ravio, Legend keeping as close as he could while walking. Ravio flinched and scrambled into the back wall as they approached. Sheerow kept himself by his side, trying to offer support, but was also quite obviously afraid. “He says he’s not going to hurt you. I’m here if he tries. Get your slate, do your apology if you were going to do that. After you’re done, you’re leaving.”

       “H-he wants to apologize?” Ravio stepped away from the wall apprehensively. He almost tried a step forward, but hesitated. Wait until you know where this is going. Just like in Lorule. You’ve dealt with sketchy people before. It’s the same thing , Ravio lectured himself.

       I need an escape route just in case. He looked around subtly. Why did he have to gauge his own shop? Surely he should know all the ins and outs to the floor plan. Ravio wanted so badly to close his eyes, just to clear his head. Shake off some of the stress. But he knew that was also the last thing he wanted to do.

       “You started it. Really you should be apologizing. But I know you won’t, because you don’t see anything wrong with selling other peoples’ stuff.” Wild’s face was set stubbornly. Look at that stupid-ass hood. Mocking me with its big, hungry eyes. It’s like he’s asking to get smacked. Anger began welling up inside him again.

       Legend got the feeling that this wouldn’t be over. He started to move between them, but Wild moved faster. Legend’s attempt to hold his friend back had counterproductively acted as Wild’s signal to go for it. Before the chance is up, go!

       Wild lunged forward, knocking Ravio to the left, out of Legend’s immediate reach. Sheerow took off at the speed of light, screeching loud enough to cause a book to fall off one of the shelves. Ravio’s upper body lashed against the side wall with a sickening crack , hot pain exploding in the back of his head. He probably would have screamed if not for the sudden impact stunning his diaphragm.

       The shop’s lights briefly flickered in Ravio’s vision, and he lost consciousness, his hood making it impossible for the others to pick up on his knock-out. Wild had gotten an excellent grip on his robe, pinning him up and swinging hooks at his face while Legend ventured to pull him off.

       Again, Time and Warriors had ran over to help, although his grip on his opponent made it difficult to get ahold of Wild without also dragging the merchant along. Everyone else stood still in the room, not exactly sure what to do. They’ll handle it. Too many of us might make it more difficult. They’ll ask for backup if they need it.

       Ravio’s senses had returned, unfortunately to find that the attacker was still on him. His hood offered the slightest amount of protection against Wild’s blows, but in the end it was like shielding a mallet with nothing but a pillow.

       He couldn’t escape. He was stuck behind the counter, struggling to hold onto clarity in the blur of it all. Had Ravio maybe had enough foresight, he could have jumped over and made a run for it. But he didn’t. Wild was too fast. And Ravio couldn’t fight. Not without magic items. Even then, he was more adept at long range, not hand to hand. Let alone fist fights.

       The bunny didn’t last standing for even another minute. Ravio’s legs were shaking too violently and had given out beneath him, leaving Wild to hold him up by his robe.

       Nobody could see his face, but he was pretty sure his left eye was badly bruised. As Wild slammed another fist, this time to his jaw, Ravio felt the warm sensation of blood on his lips. The anxiety, the adrenaline, the pain. It reminded him of some of the things that would happen in Lorule on a regularity. Flashing back to that place and the state of ruin it was in made Ravio feel sick to his stomach. Or maybe it was his head. He couldn’t tell.

       The blows had been happening so fast, he wasn’t really given enough time to breathe before violent shoves and clenched fists knocked everything out of his lungs again. Time, Warriors, and Legend were all scrambling for Wild’s limbs, but even the three of them combined were unable to catch his arms long enough to pull him away.

       Twilight had shaken himself out of his shock before the others could. Unprompted, he ran forward to help. Jumping the counter, he pushed Legend out of the way, taking his place at pulling Wild away by the waist. He was still holding Ravio by his shirt, and as Twilight yanked him off, he attempted to pull him closer by the scarf as well.

        Ravio made a choked noise and brought his hands to his neck as he was briefly strangled by Wild’s grasp. Warriors hurried to grab his hand, pressing his thumb into a pressure point on Wild’s wrist and forcing him to let go. Time worked his fingers off of the robe and together they were able to remove him from the merchant.

     He fell to the ground upon release, Legend grabbing his arm in an attempt to soften his collapse. Wild heard Ravio weep as he tried to pull a sufficient amount of air into his body. Without a word or expression, they escorted him around the counter back to the group as Hyrule snapped out of his surprise and started towards Ravio.

       “Are you alright?” Legend knelt down in front of the rabbit’s collapsed form. Ravio was slouched against the wall, his entire body shaking vigorously. From fear or physical shock, the vet didn’t know. He took a ragged breath and nodded. Legend looked to Hyrule for help.

       “Here, check over him for injuries.” Legend stepped out of the way to let Hyrule get closer, kneeling down in the vet’s place. As the other neared in, Ravio couldn’t help but startle a bit. It was plain in his mannerisms that he was having trouble making sense of things beyond instinct.

       “You-you’re with him— ”

       “It’s okay. I’m just going to look you over and see if you need healing. I’m not going to hurt you.” Ravio slowly nodded, muttering something that the others couldn’t quite catch in the flurry of lisps and slurs. They didn’t think it was anything important though. Just spluttered rambling. Hyrule wasn’t even sure Ravio knew what he was saying.

       Hyrule moved a hand slowly to his hood, careful to give Ravio enough time to process his movements. After what had just happened, it was smart not to act too suddenly for his sake. The traveler gently removed the hood, bringing his other hand up to scan the merchant’s face.

       At first glance, he didn’t look to be in horrible shape, but there were little details that only Hyrule had the experience to catch. Specifically the clear cerebrospinal fluid leaking from one side his nose, possibly a sign of head injury. He continued his examination.

       Hyrule had always looked younger than he actually was. Maybe it was the way he would fool around too much. Or the way his eyes would sparkle with every emotion he felt. It could even be how the texture of his hair had never changed since he was little. But whenever Hyrule tended to people, he seemed to gain several years to his life. His hands worked in a skillful manner. He was nothing if not highly practiced, and it showed in his every move.

       There were already bruises formed around Ravio’s left eye, from the cheekbone up to the temple. He had gotten knocked in the jaw a few times, and his bottom lip had been cut between his own teeth in the process. Hyrule ran his fingers up the bruises, tracing them back down to his cheek. The adrenaline had started to wear off, and Ravio was able to feel the full extent of his injuries.

       The back of his head was pulsating, hot and cold all at once. His vision swam with auras and black spots that appeared to move with his eyes. A metallic taste was bitter on his tongue, and the side of his face felt unmovable. Under his clothes, there was a dull aching in his stomach that would return when he tried to move, and his throat was raw from his desperate breathing. Overall, his body just felt sore and sick, the skipped slamming of his pulse doing nothing to help.

       “Well…He definitely has a concussion, I know that much from the CSF and disorientation…….I’m just going to ask you a few questions to see how severe it is. Is that okay?” Hyrule spoke gently. Ravio nodded, gulping down the creeping feeling of nausea and wiping his nose. He didn’t really feel like focusing on anything right now. Just the simple act of moving his head had sent an unbearable pressure into his skull. It felt tight, as if his brain wanted to escape its confines.

       “Alright, I’ll try to make this quick and easy. I just need you to remember these three words: Tree, fly, running. Do you need me to say it again?”

       “Try, tree, running….Fly tree. Tree, running…..Running trees?” Ravio looked at Hyrule in pure puzzlement and gave a weak, jittery laugh that immediately fell through with the spike of pain it produced. The others all exchanged worried looks. Wild, the rage having worn away and replaced with shell-shocked regret, stared hazily at Ravio while Sky nudged his shoulder.

       “You okay? It’s probably not as bad as it looks. ‘rule will be able to heal him.”

       Wild shook his head, horrified at the sight of the aftermath. “I- I did that…… why did I do that? I didn’t even know what I was doing….. ”

       “We all lose control every now and then. What you did wasn’t right, but I have a feeling everything will work out. It usually does.”

       Why is he being so nice to me? Sure it’s Sky, but he should know how terrible it is….how I am….what I did…why? What went wrong with me? This isn’t the result I wanted. I wanted to hit him, not break him. So why didn’t I stop? I just feel awful. I never wanted to hurt anyone. Not like this. I wanna go back! I wanna go back and never get angry— I wanna go back and restrain myself. I wanna go back and strangle me!

       “Alright, everyone out. Let Hyrule do his thing,” Warriors instructed. The rest of the chain was slow to listen, and Warriors had to continue repeating himself while Hyrule tended to Ravio.

       “I don’t need to hear the words now. I was asking if you needed me to repeat them,” Hyrule explained, slow and enunciated in his attempt to help Ravio make sense of speech.

       Ravio blanked for a few seconds, but shook his head, tearing up at the piercing throb the movement put through his brain. He was seconds away from giving up and falling apart. No thoughts. Only pain.

       “I’ll ask you to say them again when I’m done with the other tests. Can you follow my finger with your eyes for me?”

       As Hyrule began running his tests on Ravio, the rest of the chain minus Legend had finally stepped out of the shop. Wild had lingered inside a bit longer than the rest, frozen in place, and Sky was forced to drag him to get him to move. Once everyone had spilled out into the front yard, Warriors whipped around to face Wild.

       “What in Hylia’s name was THAT?! YOU SAID YOU WERE GOING TO APOLOGIZE!” Warriors half-yelled.

       Wild lowered his head. “I-I’m sorr—“

        “You should have said that to him . I don’t know WHAT you were thinking! Going crazy on a defenseless salesperson like that. A defenseless anybody !“ The caption bared a stern, angry look at him.

       At this, Wild felt a strong pang of guilt slam into his chest, twisting his expression. “I didn’t mean to…” But I did! That’s the worst fucking part! I timed that attack! And look at me now. Lying to my friends so they don’t hate me. I shouldn’t have to do that— if I was a good person— none of this would have happened in the first place…

       “Wars, stop. He’s already shaken by his own actions.” Time came forward as he spoke, kneeling down and resting a hand on Wild’s shoulder. “Kid, I understand you have a difficult time regulating your impulses, however to say you acted out of line is a gross understatement.

       As heroes, we’re expected to serve our Hyrules and keep the citizens within them safe . That applies to everyone . I know you know this. It doesn’t matter what other people say or do. We can’t let that destroy our values and the things we fight for. That means making sure we fight in the right situations.“

       Warriors crossed his arms and nodded businesslike. “The old man’s right. If you go around thinking you can get what you want with your fists, you become no better than Ganon. Ravio’s a sleaze of a salesman, but he’s not worth hurting. Even if he did steal your slate, you could have easily taken it back. There was no need for violence in that situation.”

       “Wars,” Time scolded again. “Let me handle this. You’re not going to help if you keep saying things like that.”

       You’re no better than Ganon. You’re no better than Ganon. You’re no better than Ganon. You’re no better than— Wild’s thoughts chose that one haunting line to focus on. “I’m no better than Ganon….” The line slipped out from between his lips, hushed, as if he wasn’t meant to process it beyond the phonetics.

       “Hey, don’t listen to him. Everything will be fine. As long as you learn from your mistakes. That’s the important part.” Time was quick to reassure him. There was a certain way that lecturing had to be done with Wild.

       Putting the knight in his place was difficult sometimes. Not enough discipline and he flew off the rails. Too much and he fell into a state of perpetuating self-criticism. It was often a struggle to find a balance, but Time knew how to hit the nail at the right angle.

       “I don’t know what came over me….I wish…I wish I could go back….I’m not even sure why you’re bothering with this. Aren’t you guys furious? Doesn’t everyone hate me now?”

       “We’d never hate you, Wild. You screwed up. You’re human, it happens. Self discipline is an art to master for some, but I know you’ll get there eventually. In the meantime, just try to stay away from Ravio unless necessary.”

       “Okay.” I don’t think I can stand to see any more of the damage I did anyway. It didn’t look good at all. It might be a good idea to wait until everything heals to talk to him…..if I talk to him….he’s probably scared of me now…..Goddess! I’m so fucking stupid!!!

       “What about my Sheikah slate? I’ve had it since I woke up. My memories have been found through the pictures in there. It was what got me through everything. I don’t think I could have ever succeeded without it.”

       And now THAT’S what I’m worried about?! I’m unbearable! No wonder I woke up alone! No wonder the only real help I got was from a dead guy and a people-pleasing fish! I bet my Hyrule just got sick of me. Now that I think about it, the only reason I got put in the shrine was to fight Ganon…..was that a punishment? It has to have been.

       I’m stupid to think I was anything more than Hylia’s pawn. If I’d fallen in battle after Ganon was defeated, I bet they wouldn’t have even given me a ceremony. They would have just dumped me off Death Mountain or something equally as fitting.

       “So that’s what that was about….worried you’ll lose what all you had during dark times….I knew there had to have been more to it.….” Time pondered aloud. “We’ll get it once Hyrule is done healing him. I promise.” He glanced back at the shop, Wild following his line of sight. After that? I deserve to have it sold. There’s no way he can be doing well in there….

                               ➰➿➰

       Ravio’s least favorite part of Hyrule’s test was glancing at the light. Had he not had such a massive headache, it would have made more sense to him that he was checking for pupil dilation. Right now though, all he could think about was how much the light source hurt his skull. As Hyrule instructed him on covering one of his eyes, he nearly sobbed.

       “Moderate head injury. Can you remember the words I told you at the beginning?”

       Ravio wanted to weep at the thought of trying to recall anything. “M’ld? Oh, ‘kay. ‘mmm….” Ravio closed his eyes and tried to remember the words, but any form of thinking seemed to intensify the pressure. “Tly, Free…..n-mmm…” His lips barely moved as he struggled to speak coherently.

       A few tears had escaped from the corners of his eyes, sliding down flushed cheeks. Legend shot Hyrule a worried expression, opening his mouth to speak. Hyrule put a hand out, cutting him off.

       “Just let him think for a few. He might get it.”

       Ravio wiped his face and shook his head, eyes remaining shut as the motion caused the base of his skull to pound again. His ears rung, an agonizingly high pitched noise. Even unable to see, he could feel the room shift as he tried to stabilize himself. Ravio’s blood seemed to change rapidly from hot to cold as another wave of nausea flopped his stomach, this one more intense than the last.

       “-I wan’ t-don’—“ Ravio shifted uncomfortably, beads of sweat forming on his face as the color drained from it.

       Hyrule brushed his hair away from his forehead to prevent the sweat from plastering, “That’s okay. You don’t have to if you can’t.”

       Ravio could no longer understand him. His hearing had become muffled between the ringing and his own pulse. Nausea continued to roll over him with each slamming of his head, rapid changes in temperature flowing along with the miserable pattern.

       The merchant swallowed thickly, taking unnecessary breaths as he tried to fight the acid rising in his throat. Unfortunately, the feeling had already reached the peak of inevitability.

       “I’mgonnabesick—” Ravio shot forward as he said this, unsteadily propping himself up with a hand, the other clasped over his mouth.

       The traveler reeled back from him, silently panicking for a bucket or something of the like. Legend swiped a trash can from under the counter and pushed it in front of Hyrule.

       “Here, use this.” Hyrule began handing it off to Ravio, who grabbed the bin prematurely, jerking it towards himself and pitching his face over the edge to vomit.

       The vet made a face, turning away with his ears blocked while contents were being brought up. Hyrule had remained next to the merchant, holding his scarf out of the way. He rubbed circles into Ravio’s back, offering vague words of comfort between bouts.

       “You’re alright. You’ll be fine. Just get it out.” Ravio choked a weak cry in response before another abrupt wave took over.

       “Is he done yet?” Legend asked, still facing away, but now with his ears only partially covered. Hyrule questioned Ravio with his eyes. Legend tensed as Ravio gagged and spat into bin again, but he nodded miserably, red-rimmed eyes staring into the trash can with a dazed look of disgust.

       There were strings of vomit coming down from his nose and lips. Ravio shakily went to wipe them away with his sleeve, but Hyrule cringed and caught his arm to stop him.

       “Please don’t. I know you’re too out of it to think or care, but that’s gross. I’ll get you a cloth or something. Legend?”

       Legend shook his head. “I’m not looking until I know it’s over.” Fair enough.

       “Alright, well then go get a cloth for me. That’s all I was going to ask anyway.”

       “Fine,” Legend huffed, dropping his hands. He left and came back, careful not to let Ravio or his illness cross his view, and squeamishly handed Hyrule the cloth he had asked for.

       Hyrule handed Ravio the rag and allowed him to clean up before gently taking the bin away to set it aside. Ravio leaned back against the wall.

       “He’s done. You can turn around now.”

       Legend refaced the other two reluctantly. Hyrule had already begun holding his hands out in front of Ravio, preparing to channel his healing magic.

       “Have you ever had one of these spells before?” He asked Ravio. Ravio was about to shake his head, but with yet another roll of nausea, decided against it. He didn’t want to speak either, so instead he sat there with his arms folded around his midsection, and shut his eyes again.

       “You can use sign if you know how. And the bin is still right next to you if you need it, although I doubt you have anything left to throw up.”

       “Uckgh…” Ravio made a repulsed noise at the mention, pulling in the trash can while Legend readied himself to face away again.

       Hyrule looked genuinely confused, absently rubbing Ravio’s back while he held his face over the bin with his mouth open, trying to decide whether or not he needed it.

       “Not at all the right word choice,” Legend stared at him blankly.

        Hyrule raised an eyebrow, unsure of what Legend was referring to. After a beat, he waved a hand, snipping his words in a monotone. “Whatever, anyway…” He turned back to Ravio expectedly, getting back on topic.

       Ravio pushed the trash can away without using it and hesitated. He didn’t know much Hylian sign language. He was more familiar with the Lorulian version which was only slightly different. He honestly didn’t rely on it much anymore. He and Legend had been raised on sign language as they were both late talkers, however Legend still used sign from time to time.

       Once Ravio started speaking, he hardly ever shut up. It helped that he was close with someone who still used a similar language on occasion, but even then, Legend would prefer to write instead of teaching people to understand him. Ravio at least remembered the basics though, as he was able to sign “no” despite the condition he was in.

       “So, I’m just going to hold out my hands. You’re going to see a flash if you open your eyes. It may be a bit bright for you at first, but it will start to heal you. The light shouldn’t bother you long. You may also feel a temperature change, but don’t worry. It’s completely normal.” Hyrule focused all his energy and attention on the flow of his power and, w ow .

       Hyrule really wasn’t kidding about the temperature change. At first, it was cold. Unbelievably so. Freezing. Ravio shivered and swallowed against his gag reflex, forcing himself to stay in place. Within a few seconds though, the feeling had begun to slowly wan and a cozy warmth spread. Gradually, it took the aches and nausea away as the pleasant heat replaced the chill.

       Ravio kept his eyes closed for a good duration of the spell, but the better he felt, the more curious he had gotten. He peaked an eye open, preparing himself for a blinding, but it was nowhere near what he expected. He opened his eyes the rest of the way, amazed at the sight displayed before him.

        Hyrule’s hands were glowing? It definitely wasn’t a flash like he had called it. A blue aura was surrounding his fingers, enveloping his palms, his face and hands illuminated by the breath-taking tendrils of magic that filled the space between the two.

        Ravio looked stunned, his gaze fixed widely on the spell, his lips slightly parted in awe. He caught Legend’s eye for a brief minute, and the vet couldn’t help but chuckle at his reaction. First time much?

       Hyrule was now the one with his eyes closed, a deep look of concentration painted on his face as he exercised what was pretty obviously a breathing technique. Ravio wanted to push himself straighter against the wall to watch better, but he wasn’t sure if large movements would impact the spell or not. Just as he was weighing whether it would be worth the risk, Hyrule had opened his eyes. The light had faded out of the air, and back into his open palms, as if retreating.

       The traveler had gasped a few times, leaning back on his hands. “You’re all done. How do you feel?”

       Ravio unslouched and sat against the wall a bit higher. He reached up to touch his own face, finding that the swelling had gone. His head showed him no sign of injury. The only proof of what had happened to him was the blood that had dried on his lip, which was no longer split open.

        “Good. Exhausted, but back to normal. Thank you!— um, does the magic reside in your body? That’s incredible! You don’t use any items for it?”

       Hyrule gave a tired wave. “I’m not really up for the questions right now. But no, I don’t use anything.”

       Ravio eyed Hyrule in confusion before giving Legend a strange look. “It’s a life spell, and it uses a lot of energy,” Legend briefly explained. “‘Rule’s gonna need somewhere to sleep soon, and I’m not sure if he’ll be okay to traveling with the others as of right now.”

       “Oh, ’m fine,” Hyrule yawned and stretched. Legend crossed his arms and snorted shortly in response.

       “Okay, maybe I need a little rest,” Hyrule smiled sheepishly. He ruffled Ravio’s hair, earning an odd glance from him. “You too, Bunny. My spell doesn’t fix exhaustion.”

       Ravio jumped head first into the exchange, his usual excitement returned despite his heavy lids. “You can spend the night here if you need. Free of charge! I mean….” He paused and decided to tone it down for everyone’s sake. “It’s the least I can do after you healed me. Oh, and here.”

       Ravio stood up carefully, gauging himself and deciding he felt well enough to move normally. He handed Hyrule the Sheikah slate.

       “When you return to the others, give this to Wild and tell him I’m sorry for trying to sell it. I had no idea where Sheerow had taken it from, not that he even knew where he was himself— but I swear to train him better on that.”

       Hyrule took the slate from Ravio’s hand. “You sure you’re alright with me doing that after what he did? I would have thought you’d still be upset.”

       Ravio shook his head, thankful he was able to do that painlessly now. “It was really my fault. I don’t blame him for beating me. Anyway— It’s unwise to rely on other peoples’ things as products, especially unsolicited. I should have been a better merchant.”

       “That’s very mature of you, however I don’t think that situation warranted a beating at all,” Legend pointed out.

        “I know he never meant to go that far. I’ve seen enough of him to know that was out of character. Rage warps people in the heat of the moment, not that that erases accountability.”

       Just then, there was a knock on the door. Legend and Ravio whipped their heads around. Hyrule, who was already facing the front, stood from the ground offering to get it. The three headed around the counter with Hyrule in the lead. When Hyrule opened the door, they were met with a worried Time.

       “Hey, is everyone okay in here?” Time glanced around in the doorway, his eyes falling on Legend and Ravio as they approached behind the traveler.

       “Everyone should be, yeah. My healing was successful, as expected.”

       “That’s good. Wild’s calmed down for real this time. I see you got his slate back.” Time pointed to the device with a tilt of his head.

       Hyrule glanced down at his hands. He had almost forgotten he was holding it. “Oh, yeah. Ravio wants Wild to know that he’s sorry. He genuinely didn’t know where Sheerow had gotten it from.” He handed the slate to Time as Ravio nodded in agreement to his statement.

       “Do you think you guys can talk it out right now, or would you rather wait on it? I know Wild didn’t want to see him while he was still injured. He’s been beating himself up— I mean, he feels really bad. That was a distasteful way to word it, I apologize.”

       “Um….” Hyrule looked to Ravio. The merchant seemed very conflicted.

        Wild’s been remorseful on my account? Me? Ravio? I knew he wasn’t acting like himself but….Am I really worth stressing over? I forgive him….I probably shouldn’t, but— I don’t know. I’m still scared. Yet I know he lost control….Would he do it again if it came down to it? Would I be right to refuse him? Or am I wrong for wanting to give him the benefit of the doubt?

       “I-I don’t— maybe…” He sounded a bit unsure of himself. Considering everything, Hyrule found that perfectly reasonable. Ravio was still weary of Wild and would likely be on edge the whole time they talked. If Hyrule knew his friend as well as he thought he did, he’d most definitely sense his uneasiness and further guilt himself, leading to more emotional drama.

       “It’s fine. I think we’ll wait a bit for now. Give it time to wear off,” Hyrule answered for him. Time nodded at Hyrule. “Ravio offered for me to spend the night so I could sleep away the spell’s effects. You guys can leave without me if you want. I know you’re probably tired as well, and it’s getting late anyway.” Hyrule yawned again, rubbing at his eyes.

       “Alright. Do you want me to get you in the morning? I can bring Wild back around and see if Ravio is ready to talk.” Time glance over at the merchant standing behind Hyrule.

       Ravio hid his face in his scarf and shrugged. “That’s fine by me I guess….” Maybe I won’t be as afraid once I use the night to process. I want to make amends. I really do. Oh, gods. I hate having enemies… And I wish I wasn’t scared of my friends!

       “Hey, are you guys done yet? It’s getting dark. We’re gonna have to go soon,” Four called out from behind Time. “Are they going to talk it out or not?”

       Time turned around halfway to address the rest of the group. “We’re going to head out here in a bit. ‘Rule’s gonna stay here for the night. I’ll come back to pick him up in the morning.”

       “Why? Is everything okay?” Wild asked. Worry had leaked into his tone.

       “Everyone’s fine. Hyrule’s spell’s left him too tired to come with us though,” Time reassured him. “You’re coming with me when we get him. You and Ravio have things to work out once he’s ready.”

       “He’s afraid of me. I knew it,” Wild said this as a statement rather than a question. He hung his head, turning away slightly as to hide his shamed expression. “It’s fine. I don’t blame him. How stupid do I have to be to lose my temper like that…”

       Ravio stared passed Time at Wild’s display. Wow, he really has been hard on himself about it. Sure, he may have gone way too far, but isn’t fighting in his nature? The others would say that’s no excuse, but what do I know?

        I probably would have done the same thing had it been my rupees. And had I had the guts to actually do anything besides run. Should we make this right immediately? If not now, then when? Fear doesn’t just go away. If I keep having the others put it off for me, I might never get the nerve.

       “It’s my fault for sending Sheerow out without clear instructions. I may be a coward, but I can admit I deserved what I got-“

       “Shut up! It’s not your fault! What gives you the right to take the blame for this?! You know nothing about me!” Wild snapped. Ravio flinched back with a hand to his chest. He nearly obeyed his urge to run farther into the safety of his shop, but somehow willed himself to stand in place. Wild noticed this and immediately reeled back. “I-I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to-“ he choked out.

       For the first time since the chain had met him, Wild’s eyes produced tears. He tried to turn away quickly to escape, but ran into Sky, who had been standing behind him undetected. The second they made contact with each other, Sky being Sky, Wild found himself wrapped in a warm hug.

       “Don’t be afraid to let us help you. You don’t deserve to have everything kept inside. We’re your friends.” Wild shattered at these words.

       “How could anyone want to be friends with me?! I’m insufferable!” Wild sobbed into Sky’s shoulder. “I’m nothing but a pawn for people! And as soon as I try to stand up for what I want— Where’s the middle ground?! I can’t just live as an impulsive doormat! I can’t do it!”

       Ravio felt his heart clench. He’s afraid. He’s scared just like I am. I always assumed he was naturally stoic— Has he been hiding it all this time? No wonder it’s all coming out like this……

       Ravio pushed his way past Hyrule and Time. Before he could think about what he was doing, he approached Wild with a hand on his shoulder.

       “Wild, I’m afraid of everything. It’s not just you. I’m afraid of everyone here. I’m afraid of customers. Of change, and time. Life and death. I’m afraid of myself and the whole universe. Every single world I’ve stepped into, I’ve been afraid. I live in a constant realm of fear. It’s taught me not to hide so much.”

       Sky ended the embrace to let Wild face Ravio as everyone else listened silently. Wild wiped away his tears, more streaming out in their place. “But…what I did to you…”

       “Is what I would have done if I had the strength. It doesn’t make it right by any means, but if amends can be made then it hurts worse to let everything stay broken. You’re right. I know nothing about you. You carry a lot of hardship that I will never understand. I couldn’t imagine the things you had to go through. Any of you.” He gestured to the group before continuing.

       “Legend despises the Goddess’s name, and I will never truly understand why in the same way he does. What I do know is that you don’t deserve to carry all these emotions on your own. If your friends believe it, then I do too. You have good people. Let them help! From my experience, trust is the key to managing your fear. I’m sure the same goes for everything else.”

       Wild sniffled. “A little ironic coming from the guy who stole my equipment and tried selling it back to me,” he stated, but no malice could be detected in his voice.

       “Well, you must understand I have a shop to run. No business comes free of charge. However, yes. I do think that was a smidge too far on my end, and I apologize sincerely. Once I can track down Sheerow, I’ll tell him not to take things from peoples’ windows anymore.”

       “Anymore?” Wild repeated.

       “Well, I don’t think he’s stolen from anywhere else, but I can never be certain. He is a bird after all. He doesn’t know the difference between theft and scavenging. If I have a customer claim an item again, I’ll give it back out of kindness and respect.” And maybe a little to avoid this again, but nobody needs to know that…

       Wild couldn’t help but smile a bit at the image of a confused Sheerow flying into a random house and hauling out their jewelry for a nest, completely oblivious of the concept of belonging. Now that’s chaos I can get behind. Not anything important. Just random trinkets, and pure intentions that are void of awareness.

       After giving the two some space to talk, Time had seen it right to join in. “So are you guys good now?”

       Ravio eyed Wild hopefully. Wild rubbed at the tears that had begun to dry on his cheeks and nodded. “I think I am. Are you?” Ravio nodded back.

       “Good. And here, before you forget.” Time handed the Sheikah slate, not to Wild, but to Ravio.

        Ravio gave the object a look of utter bewilderment. “Why did you give this to me ?”

       “I figured you two would want to fix things where they started.”

       “Right. I do. Here-“ Ravio began handing Wild the slate, but was cut off.

       “Wait! I never got to say my apology!” Wild interjected. He still has blood on his lip. I was hoping I wouldn’t have to see any more of the consequences. I’m so glad he’s okay, though. I such a horrible— no…I need to stop thinking like that. It never ends well when I do.

       Ravio paused, but in the end he held out his hand as Wild took the Sheikah slate anyway. “I already forgave you. You apologized in your actions, that’s all that matters to me.”

       Wild blinked sadly. “But I don’t even know how I’m going to make it up to you….”

       “Rupees maybe?” Ravio suggested.

       Wild gave the bunny a subtle look of resentment, but hooked his slate to his belt and took out his wallet pouch. Ravio laughed and waved his hands in front of himself in surrender. “I’m kidding! I’m kidding!” Wild sighed in relief and put his money away.

       “….unless you wanted to?” Ravio added after the wallet was gone.

       “Goddess, Ravio! Why are you like this?! ”

       Ravio ignored him and steepled his hands, pointing out in front of himself. “Half-joking. I don’t mind the payment, but you don’t owe me anything.” Ravio dropped his hands and shrugged. “We both played an equal part in this, so I believe the costs cancel out.”

       “That’s the reason?” Wild deadpanned. “Good to know if I wanted to beat you randomly I’d have to pay you.” Shit, fuck! Why did I say that? Dumbass…Goddess, I’m doing it again. Fucking idiot. Damn this cycle.

       “I hate pain unconditionally, so I’m going to say you can’t afford it…..?” Ravio inched back with his hands out, nearly stumbling over, as Wild shut his eyes and continued to kick himself mentally. This time, the deprecation is warranted.

       Time sighed, “I think it’s way too soon to be making jokes like that, don’t you agree?” Wild nodded, flushing in embarrassment.

       Ravio laughed anxiously. “Right. Jokes. Right, of course…” He fiddled with his fingers, gaze fixed off into the blackened sky. After a beat of time, Ravio finally processed what he was looking at. “My, it’s dark out already? You all better get going. I have to get inside before the monsters start coming out. You know Ravio— can barely take down a red boko, haha…..”

       “I think you’re more capable than you’re aware of,” Legend stepped in, grabbing Ravio’s hand and patting the top of it, half-affectionate, half-taunting. “Come on. Hyrule’s waiting inside. I made him clean out the trash bin.”

       “Wha-“ Wild began to question. “You know what? Not even going to ask.”

       “Better if you don’t, honestly.” Legend started pulling Ravio inside the shop.

       “O-okay? So we heading out then?” Wild asked. Time nodded, leading the way as the chain headed out into the night.

                                ➰➿➰

       Back in the shop, the three remaining boys changed into their nighttime clothes, Hyrule settling for just taking off his accessories, and Legend throwing a rag at Ravio to clean the blood off his face. Sheerow had been found nesting inside the folds of one of the blankets Ravio had taken. “I’m sorry Sheerow. We have a guest. You can use one of my scarves if you give me a minute to bundle it up for you.”

       Chirp chirp! chirp chirp chirp?

       “Ravio’s fine. They were able to make up. I’m sorry my friend scared you, though,” Hyrule answered while taking off his belt and shoes.

       “You can understand him too?” Legend raised an eyebrow.

       “I-I guess? Is he not speaking Hylian?”

       Legend shook his head. He doesn’t hear the chirps? Weird. Even I can tell he’s speaking a different language, and I could understand him from the start! “IIII thiiink we should just brush over that for tonight.”

       The traveler yawned. “Sounds good to me. I’m about to pass out in a minute.”

        Ravio ignored the two’s chatting as he set up a pile of pillows and blankets on the floor for Hyrule, despite some earlier protests about being used to sleeping on the ground. Ravio had attempted to charge Hyrule 40 rupees a pillow, but Legend had intervened, threatening to physically remind him why Hyrule was spending the night in the first place. It wasn’t until they were all settled in that Ravio’s stomach growled.

       “The hell was that?” Legend turned on a lamplight.

       “We forgot about dinner apparently.” Hyrule answered for him, raising himself on his elbows. “Ravio probably needs to eat more than we do. I’m too tired to cook though.” Hyrule flopped back down dramatically, burrowing in the covers as if planning to hibernate.

       Legend playfully smacked Hyrule’s head with his pillow. “Nobody wants to eat your food poisoning anyway, stupid. I have snacks under my bed.”

       Ravio shot Legend a puzzled glance. “Since when?! You never shared!”

       “Why would I? You basically own my house now. I can’t have my own stash?”

       “That’s not fair! You gave me this space! I paid my part for it!” Ravio may have appeared offended on the outside, but— well, no he was still offended.

       “Oh, right. The bracelet. Yeah, totally worth rent nowadays.”

       “I’ll take it back if you keep acting like it didn’t help you.”

       “And that means I can evict you if you don’t pay properly.”

       Ravio locked his next argument between his teeth, but kept it there. “Let’s do snacks. I’m famished.”

       “Yeah, I thought that.” Legend laid back down and hung the top half of his body over the edge of his bed, reaching awkwardly for the small box he kept underneath.

       “You know you can just get up. Way less effort.” Hyrule noted, watching Legend with half his face, his voice muffled from the other half being in the pillows.

       “Fuck you-“ Legend strained out, smiling as he dragged his stash out. He managed to balance himself and the box as he maneuvered back over onto the mattress. “Here, eat.” He tossed a handful of snacks at Hyrule, which bounced off his form.

       Hyrule sat up, chuckling faintly, and threw a pillow at him in retaliation. Legend ignored it as it smacked him in the face, and threw snacks across the room to Ravio. Most of the snacks landed in Ravio’s lap, however the other two couldn’t help but bust out laughing at the one stray that bounced off his forehead as the bunny shut his eyes to avoid flinching.

       Ravio sighed. “You guys are too much. It’s late.” Ravio grabbed the snack package that had hit him and opened it. The others followed suit.

       “Are we sure we don’t have another old man here?” Hyrule jested with his mouth full.

       “Nope, just a bunny,” Legend responded, grinning. “A bunny allergic to fun and addicted work.”

       “Hey! That’s not true! Work is fun!”

       “Mhm, you’re just proving my point. Finish eating and go to sleep, Mr. bunny business. We have another shop day tomorrow, and we don’t know what time Time will be here in the morning.”

       “Time’ timing time for the time being.” Hyrule mused to Legend. “Time will come when the time comes, that time being when the time is right.”

       Legend rolled his eyes. “Is this like the Like-Likes thing again?”

       “The what?” Ravio glanced at one, then the other, lost between Legend’s annoyance and Hyrule’s comedic use of repetition.

       “Nothing, just a joke he tried to make during a mission involving a shield eating monster. If we keep talking, we’ll be up all night, and you two are passed the point of depletion.”

       Legend and Ravio had put the snacks away first, Ravio overtly thanking him for sharing. Legend had nodded and put out the lamp as everyone settled back in for the night. Hyrule laid on the ground surrounded by snacks, listening to the two shift in their light sleep while his eyes threatened to close themselves.

       Goddess, what a day that was. Glad it’s over now. Glad I could help. Everything will work out. And on that note, Hyrule curled up, slipping into sleep himself, his snack falling out of his hand as all of his muscles relaxed into his nest of pillows.