Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Tidal had been lounging about with the Chain. Content to doze in their company. This went on, for a while, until a metallic scent wafted over. Alarmed, she got to her feet. Before anyone could ask her what was wrong, she was already following the scent of blood. It was faint, but the blood itself smelled fresh. Not good… Tidal left the Chain in the dust to track down the source. She left an obvious trail for them to follow, bending saplings. 

When she finally did find the source, rage coiled like a snake in her belly. Yiga. And they had a child. The boy was… Odd. Snow white hair, including his eyelashes. Very, very pale skin. His eyes were a striking pink with red pupils. He was like Jacuzii. Her gaze went to his left hand, where half of his middle finger was missing. He was bleeding from what was left of the poor finger. The Yiga were doing… Something with the severed finger. Tidal snarled, and intervened. The enraged Tidewing first struck down the soldiers nearest to the albino child. She showed them no mercy. 

The remaining Yiga retreated hastily after that. Tidal looked back to see the little boy cowering down, cradling his bloody hand to his chest. She crooned softly to him. The child whimpered, shaking badly. Scooting away from her. Tears were rolling down his face. “I-I'm sorry! Whatever I d-d-did wrong, I'm sorry!” he wailed. Why was he saying sorry? This wasn't his fault! The gentle giant shuffled closer, trying to keep her face neutral. 

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Eight year old Ruru was terrified. He'd been on his own for three months, then a strange portal opened up, and he was dumped in a strange new land. For three weeks he wandered, working for food and shelter whenever and wherever he could. Three days ago, he had offered to help a band of travelers with foraging. That led to his current predicament. The travelers, as it turned out, appeared to be some sort of cult. Yiga, they called themselves. And they were insane. Now, three days after his abduction, they tried to make him a blood sacrifice for Ganon. That terrified him even more. Then a fucking DRAGON arrived and slaughtered most of them.

Said dragon was currently trying to get close to him. Ruru cradled his bleeding hand to his chest. It hurt so badly… And there was so much blood… And half of his finger was gone… Ruru gasped when suddenly his vision was filled with blue. The dragon was sniffing him. “Pl-please don't hurt me… Not again…” He tried to run when the dragon licked his injured hand. That was when the dragon picked him up. Huge fingers wrapping around his little body and lifting him. Ruru started to struggle hard. Pushing with all his might against the massive hand. Then he saw an older boy, perhaps twice his age, appear. “It's okay! It's okay, she won't hurt you! Tidal, put him down, he's scared to death!”

“Hurt!” Tidal… Spoke… He found his arm being gently propped up on a knuckle, bloody hand on clear display. The other boy paled. “Kid, you're safe with her, she won't hurt you, I'm going to get help.” Before Ruru could protest, the other boy was gone. Tidal was licking his hand again. A strange, purple glowing substance was left behind. It burned at first, but then it actually felt better. Ruru still shook. Adrenaline was wearing off. And the gravity of what had transpired was sinking in. 

“Tidal, let me see him.” The boy had returned with eight others. The dragon set him down. “Hyrule, what happened here…” a man with a blue scarf asked. Hyrule just shook his head. “Not now.” Hyrule gently took his injured hand and winced. “Those monsters… You'll still have full range of motion. It's just going to feel weird for a while.” The blue scarfed man looked over, and went rigid. He was quick to take his arm, and start wrapping his poor little hand. “Tidal did pretty good cleaning that up, just needs to be wrapped for a few days.” 

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Tidal watched anxiously as Warriors wrapped the hand up. The second he was done, she brought a blanket to him. And offered it. The albino child accepted it. Poor boy was trembling. “What's your name, little one?” Time asked gently, kneeling down to his level. “Ruru…”

“Hi, Ruru. Who did this to you?”

“Th-they called themselves Yiga.”

Wild bristled off to the side. Legend kept him calm. Hyrule sat down next to Ruru, prompting the little boy to sit as well. “How old are you? I'm sixteen.” Hyrule said kindly. “Eight…”

Tidal laid on her belly, curling around Ruru and Hyrule at that. Ruru grabbed onto Hyrule when she did this. “It's okay~ Tidal's friendly. She won’t hurt us. Right, Tidal? You're a good girl, right?” She boofed in reply, smiling. Hyrule patted her side. Ruru watched him with wide eyes. A tiny hand darted out, gave her side a single pat, then darted back. Hyrule laughed a little. “You can pet her~ She LOVES being pet! Look–” Hyrule stood up, and walked up to her face. He scratched under her chin. Ruru followed after a moment. He extended his hand, arm shaking. Tidal gently touched her nose to his little palm. And purred for him. She didn't want him to be afraid. 

“See? She likes it!” Hyrule's words encouraged Ruru, it seemed. He started properly petting her, then. The gentle giant purred. Tidal then licked Ruru's face with a happy chirp. Twilight made a worried noise right after. She quickly saw why. Ruru yanked his arm back, eyes wide. And he looked ready to cry. “Awww it's okay! That's how she gives kisses! Like a dog~” Twilight said sweetly. Ruru nodded, then held his hand out again. Tidal gave it a much gentler lick before touching her nose to his palm. She saw Wind get a mischievous grin off to the side. “Tidal likes pumpkins.” She perked up at that. Wild snorted, but brought several pumpkins out of his slate. 

Wind picked one up, and brought it over. “Open up!” She obediently opened wide, and Wind tossed it in. He tossed another one in before waiting for her to eat them. “Wooooah…” Ruru said softly as she popped the gourds in her mouth. Tidal purred at the sweet taste. She swallowed those, then opened up for more. Wind laughed, tossing in a couple more. She crunched those up. “See? She's a veggie eating dragon~ She won't eat ya! Look!” Tidal stayed very still when Wind climbed into her mouth as she went to get more food. “Harmless! She knows I'm in here!” Tidal rolled her eyes, which got a giggle out of Ruru. 

The dragon closed her mouth, carefully, and lightly spit Wind out into some bushes. The little maniac cackled at this. She took a few more pumpkins before she felt a light touch on her jaw. Ruru was petting her again. Her eyes went to his bandaged hand. Poor boy… Tidal licked his face again, and this time he smiled. 

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Ruru giggled, pulling the blanket a little tighter around himself. Tidal was being so careful… He tried hugging her, then. “Awwww…” The young man with the white sailcloth was watching. Ruru kissed Tidal on the nose, then turned to face him. “She's so soft!” 

“She is~ Ruru, right? My name is Sky.” Sky's gaze went back to Tidal, then to him. “She wants to hold you, I think.” Ruru looked back to see a forepaw extended to him. He looked to Sky, who nodded. “She's very gentle. Tidal's held babies before, believe it or not.” Ruru looked to Tidal, then reached his good arm up. 

The forepaw wrapped around him, gently, and lifted. He was cupped in the opposite palm once at chest level. The one called Four chuckled off to the side. “She's very, ah, hands on. Touch is important to her.” Ruru mulled that over for a minute, then let his head rest against her thumb. Tidal did something different next. She laid back against some trees, and set him on her belly. And he thought her face had felt soft… He sank down a little on the soft underbelly. “Ru… Ru… Ruuuuruuuuu…?” He snapped his head around. Tidal wiggled her nose, looking deep in thought. “Tidal, Ruru, friend?” she said. Oh. Oh. 

Ruru nodded, feeling warmth bloom in his chest. “Yeah, yeah! Friend!” Tidal smiled, licking him enthusiastically! He was lifted off his feet for a moment, but he laughed anyway. Hyrule joined him shortly with a basket of apples. The boys made a game of tossing them into Tidal's mouth. Ruru gave a little giggle when Tidal spit an apple back at him. He caught it, and tossed it back. “You're funny~” he laughed. Tidal caught two from Hyrule, happily crunching them up. Ruru went to stand, and he slipped. With a startled squeak he started falling off.

Ruru squeezed his eyes shut, bracing for a hard impact on the ground. He didn’t hit the ground, he hit something soft. He was, however, looking back at Hyrule who was holding his hand out to him. “Careful there! Good thing she’s got good reflexes!” Ruru realized then where he was, especially when he felt movement at his back and moisture. The child took Hyrule’s hand, looking over his shoulder as he was pulled from the dragon’s mouth. Not a scratch on him. Ruru patted himself down to be sure. “I-I’m okay…?” Hyrule chuckled a bit, patting Tidal's nose. “You’d be surprised how gentle she can be. I've seen her pick up pebbles with her lips. Like a horse picking medicine out of oats, RIGHT WILD?” 

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Tidal even snorted at the distant “shut your mouth” from across camp. The little boy sitting on her belly laughed, too. She leaned forward, playfully lipping his bright white hair. Ruru giggled this time, as her touch was light enough to tickle. Good! He was feeling better around her~ She reached a hand up, and gently patted Ruru's hair with a fingertip. The color intrigued her. Yes, it happened in animals and dragons. But she'd never seen it happen in a Hylian before. The child jumped slightly, but then smiled softly. Ruru shifted, then winced when he put weight on his left hand. He sat back suddenly, picking at the bandaging. Hyrule gently stopped him. “Hey, no, I’m sorry but that has to stay on for a while longer…” Hyrule told him. Ruru shook his head, trying to lean away from him. “It hurts…” he whined. Tidal gently grasped one little arm between thumb and forefinger, and lowered it. She rumbled low and gentle. Trying to soothe him. The giant dragon then ran her finger up and down Ruru’s spine, a clear attempt to reassure him. 

The boy blinked a few times before going back to the bandaging. Hyrule went to stop him, but Tidal then helped Ruru remove it. She was already getting ready to clean it again, healing enzyme ready to use. Ruru stared long and hard at his hand once the wrappings were off. He looked sad… She gave it a very, very gentle lick, being careful of the raw edges of the wound. Hyrule put an arm around his shoulders. “Why would they want to bring Ganon back… H-he wants everyone dead… And why did they hurt me to do it…” Ruru sounded hurt, more than just physically hurt. He smelled sad. And scared. Tidal gently rubbed her nose against him. Growling softly. Hyrule hugged the little guy. “They’re bad people… And I’m sorry they hurt you.” Tidal watched as Ruru hugged Hyrule back. The child seemed to freeze a little, but then melted into the embrace. Tidal shifted a bit to sort of hug them both herself. Then she carefully set them on the ground as she rolled onto her belly. 

Warriors approached, kneeling down to look at Ruru’s hand. “Tidal’s, ah, healing thing works well. And fast, for that matter. It’ll be sore for a while.” Ruru rubbed at his eyes with his good hand, sniffling a bit. Warriors gently picked him up, settling him in his arms. Ruru wrapped his arms around his neck. “I wanna stay with Tidal… Can I stay with her, please?” Tidal extended a wing in invitation for them. Hyrule took the offer, curling up at her side. Warriors kept Ruru beside him as he too settled. The three fell asleep at her side. Tidal kept her wing over them. 

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Ruru woke with a start. Warriors and Hyrule didn't wake, deep asleep. He stepped out from under the dragon's wing, shaking. He had dreamt the Yiga had returned. It felt real… Tidal picked her head up, ears pricking towards him. The young boy's eyes filled with tears. He saw others sleeping, too. A campfire going close by. Ruru looked up into Tidal's face before walking back and pressing himself against her chest. 

“I'm scared…” he whispered. “I-I… I don't know where I am… I don't know what's happening…” Ruru's voice cracked towards the end of his sentence. Tears spilling over his cheeks. He pressed his face into her to muffle a little sob. “I'm alone. I-I don't have anyone left! I'm so tired, and scared…” A soft, warm pressure began going up and down his back. His hair was lightly ruffled, too. Large fingers curled around him, then. Ruru let his head rest against the massive fingers. The little boy found safety in the embrace of the forepaw, and finally let himself drift back to sleep.

Chapter Text

Ruru woke up slowly. Birds were singing sweetly in the morning sun. Then everything came rushing back. The portal. The Yiga. And the group he was now with. The DRAGON he was currently snuggled up to. Tidal, so far, was extremely friendly. If not excessively friendly. She now looked right back at him. Tidal poked him lightly in the chest. Rumbling faintly. “Hi…” Ruru whispered. Tidal lipped at his hair in response. The little boy got up, stretching like a cat before heading for the campfire. Wild was already awake, making breakfast. He made his way over, and sat down.

“Oh hey Ruru!” Wild greeted. Ruru smiled, waving a shy hello. Ruru eagerly accepted the offered blueberry muffin Wild presented him with. Hyrule and Warriors appeared in short order, as did the others. Each one taking a muffin and tucking in. Tidal even accepted a few. Ruru wolfed his down. He hadn't eaten well in a while. And apparently it showed, because another muffin dropped into his lap. Tidal had given him one of hers. “Thank you…” he said softly, before eating that muffin too. Time looked concerned. “Those disappeared rather quickly… Have you been eating well at all?” the eldest Link asked. Ruru shook his head. Wild tapped on his slate, and a warm bowl of stew was pressed into his hands. 

“Eat. It's alright. You need the food.” Wild urged. Ruru ate obediently. Once he was finished, Ruru returned the bowl. Tidal shuffled closer to him, looking like a playful kitten with how round her eyes were. “Eyo!” she chirped cheerfully. Time chuckled. “I still can't figure out where she got that from… She knows how to say hello correctly.” he said to the boy through a smile. Ruru giggled softly. And again when Tidal brushed her whiskers against them both. 

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Tidal was doing her best to make Ruru feel safe with them all. Poor child, to have gone through that sort of abuse… She followed him around, constantly talking. Ruru seemed amused at first. But then…

“Tidal, please stop… You've been badgering the poor boy for two hours and he's looking irritated…” Four bluntly stated. This got an odd reaction from Ruru. 

“S-she's fine!”

“Then why are you trying to wrap Warriors’ scarf around your head? And you keep moving away from her. Kid, it's okay to tell her to stop.”

Tidal then realized what was going on. And went silent. Ruru looked back at her apologetically. 

The dragon reached a hand over and sweetly patted his head. Four cooed at that. “Well that was sweet~” Things were all well and good, until a portal opened up beneath them all. She managed to grab Ruru and Four before falling through, and she landed on her back with an undignified wheeze. She looked around, and quickly figured out who's Hyrule they were in. Sky realized it, too. For a familiar robed dragon was staring back, and a woman was there too. Her face lit up. 

“Link!”

“Zelda!”

Oh. Oh! Oh this was Sun! Sky and Sun crashed into each other, Sky sweeping her up in his arms and planting a kiss on her face. “Sun, I've missed you! So much!” Tidal watched with a soft purr as Sky cuddled up to Sun. Four and Ruru had since been set down. Though as Lanayru approached them… Ruru hid underneath her. “Who might this be, hm? Little fellow he is~” the old dragon mused. “Ah, that's Ruru. We only just met him last night. The Yiga got a hold of him…” Four said softly. 

Tidal shuffled backwards, and gently picked the albino child up. Cupping him in her palms. Lanayru took a very, very careful approach. “Hello, Ruru. You have nothing to fear here. You are amongst friends, boy.” Tidal rumbled reassuringly to Ruru, lapping his back. “Wh-what's your name, Mister Dragon?” Tidal answered before the dragon himself could. “Lanayru, friend, Lanayru, friend!” Ruru looked at her intently as she spoke. “H-hi, Lanayru.” Ruru greeted, then. 

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Ruru felt better, seeing how friendly Tidal was with Lanayru. The little boy thought for a moment, then reached towards Lanayru. He chortled, a rich, deep sound, and held his hand out as Tidal gently transferred him. Ruru was held closer to the old dragon's face, and it was then he noticed how fluffy his beard looked. Almost like it was… Clouds? 

The child patted it gently, then pressed his face into it. “It's so soft!” Lanayru chuckled at this. “Well it is like clouds, for I am the Mighty Thunder Dragon~” Ruru laughed a little at that before rubbing his face in it. Things were going well, up until two other robed dragons arrived. “Oh hey, boys~ Ho– oh? Oh hello, little fella!” said the red one. Ruru waved a shy hello. His left hand was noticed quickly by both newcomers. “Oh my, what happened here?” said the blue one. The blue one took him from Lanayru, gently. 

“Tidal, be good, she won't hurt him, PLEASE…” Hyrule was heard saying. Ruru looked over to see Tidal looking… Defensive. Time spoke up next, voice authoritative. “Tidal. Calm.” She reluctantly eased her stance. “Tidal, dear, we've been over this. I'm not eating anyone in this room. Certainly not this one. Now, what happened?” Ruru gulped nervously. “B-bad men wanted m-me to bring b-back Ganon… S-s-so they… Um…” He simply held up his hand. The blue one nodded. “You're in good hands. I am Faron. That oaf there is Eldin, and I see you already know Lanayru.” 

Ruru nodded. “I-I wanna get down…” Faron set him on his feet carefully, shifting to sit next. Eldin and Lanayru did as well. “We just met him last night. It was Tidal who rescued him from the Yiga.” Sky supplied. All three robed dragons winced. “Yeesh… He don't look that old, either… How old are ya, kid?” Eldin asked. 

“Eight…”

“The fu–”

“LANGUAGE.” (Faron, surprisingly.)

“Oh please, Wind swears all the time–”

Lanayru shook his head with a chuckle. “Bah, don't mind them. Tidal and Faron got off to a rough start, to clear that up. Faron made a joke she shouldn't have, and Tidal took it literally. Took a long time to fix that mess.” he explained. Ruru nodded a little, grabbing onto Time's arm. Tidal leaned over and gave Ruru a little lap to the side, getting a smile out of him. 

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Tidal looked up at Faron with a sigh. She didn't really like her that much… But she had been gentle with Ruru. So, she approached Faron. And lightly headbutted her. Faron seemed to catch on. “See, I'm not so bad now am I?” she teased, patting Tidal on the head. Warriors snickered off to the side when Tidal rolled her eyes. Gee, sure, rub it in. Tidal ducked away with a snort. 

“So, is Ruru one of the chosen?” Lanayru asked. That question made Time's head snap up, eye wide. “We… We aren't sure… But the portal did take him with us.” Ruru looked anxious, then. Pink eyes wide. Then he started shaking. “Hey, what's wrong?” Sky had noticed, and was now kneeling down. “I-I'm a magic user. I'm kinda good at it, a little… I-Is that why they…?” Ruru was trying not to cry. Tidal could smell the tears being held back. Poor thing was scared… Tidal and Hyrule both reacted to this. “It might be. But you know what? We're not gonna let them have you. I can teach you how to fight with magic.” Hyrule told him. “And besides, Tidal here would flay them six ways to Sunday if they laid a finger on you, boy!” Lanayru added. 

Ruru blinked up at her. And held a hand out. Tidal nudged her nose into the little palm. “Safe.” she rasped. Four and Legend came up, Legend picking him up. “Oof, heavy… Yeah, you're safe with us, kiddo.” Legend assured. Ruru wrapped his arms around the Vet's neck in a hug. Tidal smiled at him. Faron and Eldin finally stopped bickering long enough to see Legend holding the little boy in his arms. “Is he okay?” Eldin asked softly. “Yeah, I think he's just, well… Overwhelmed right now.” Legend replied. 

Tidal gently took Ruru from Legend, then promptly snuggled up against Lanayru with him. The old dragon patting her back as she got settled. Tidal let Ruru lay in the crook of one arm. Hyrule and Legend both curled up with them as well. The Tidewing laid her head on Lanayru’s lap, giving a deep sigh. Faron and Eldin decided to head back to their respective domains, leaving the Chain and Tidal with Lanayru. 

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Ruru felt safe like this… He could see the others figuring out what to do next. Hyrule and Legend were with him and Tidal. Legend was dozing on his back right in front of Tidal, and Hyrule was curled up at Tidal's chest. He didn't quite fall asleep, content to watch the others doing their own things. Hyrule started snoring across from him, making him giggle softly. 

“He's out cold~” Lanayru chuckled. Ruru peeked around Tidal to grin at him. Ruru clambered over Tidal's leg, and with a nudge from the now drowsy Tidewing, made it up onto Lanayru's lap. “I'm… A little nervous about being chosen to go with them.” the child admitted. Ruru let Lanayru pick him up, sitting cross legged. “I-I don't know them… They seem nice…” The old dragon chortled at this. “Ruru, they are some of the kindest folks out there. Sky especially. He saved my life, you know.”

“He did?!”

“Certainly!”

Ruru listened intently as Lanayru told him of Sky's first quest. And also what he knew of the others’ quests. These people he was with… They seemed like good people indeed. Ruru eventually cuddled up against the soft yellow robe as he was brought to chest level. Lanayru kept telling him about this Hyrule, of all the places, all its people. 

“Tidal joined them not too long ago. A few months ago, I believe. She saved Hyrule from Moblins.” Ruru looked down as Tidal looked up at her name. “Yes, we're talking about you.” Lanayru whispered to her. Ruru grinned as Tidal yawned, and laid her head down again. “She's helped those boys so many times. Saved their lives. You know, she has this weird, purple slime that can heal wounds. Wind was near death once, and apparently the organ that makes the stuff can hold things too! Scared the boys to death as they thought she'd eaten Wind. No, she saved him. It left her exhausted though.” 

“She… What?”

“It's like a pouch, but it's internal. Is where the healing stuff comes from. She kept Wind alive with it but I think it drained her energy to do so.”

Well that was… Okay? He wasn't going to ask. 

“It's the slimy crap she licked onto your hand yesterday.” a groggy Legend supplied. Still laying on the ground, hat over his eyes. Hyrule woke up with a snort at Legend's voice, scowling at him. “Legend, why so loud… I was sleeping!” the Traveler complained. Legend lifted his hat to glare. “Sounds like a you problem–!” Tidal lifted a forepaw, and laid it over Legend's torso. Muffling him. Hyrule laughed, Lanayru snorted and patted Tidal's head.

“Let him up, Tidal~ Don't be mean!” Ruru giggled. She did indeed let Legend up, and even he was laughing. He sat up grinning. “Didn't expect that, well played, you big brat!” he teased. Tidal chuffed with laughter, then dropped her head on Lanayru's lap again. Ruru leaned against Lanayru again. Finally feeling drowsy himself. “You can doze if you wish, boy. Sky does it all the time~” the old dragon said to him. 

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Tidal watched with a soft purr as Ruru fell asleep with Lanayru. Snuggling into his robe. She looked down at Hyrule as he got up, and stretched. Legend got to his feet, cracking his back a bit. “Poor kid. Already asleep again… I wonder what happened to him before we found him. Aside from the obvious.” Legend said softly. Tidal wondered too… Time approached them, a gentle look in his eye. Tidal nudged Lanayru's free hand, wanting pets. The old dragon obliged, scratching behind her ears and down her back. 

“How's Ruru?” Time asked Lanayru. “He's alright. Tired, nervous. Probably still a touch of shock. Poor lad. Give him a day or so to get used to you.” Lanayru advised, gently stroking a claw over the child's snow white hair. Tidal hummed. She would do her best to help. The dragon greeted Time with a soft trill, leaning her head down so he could pat her. “You'll help him, won't you, girl? You and your charming puppy ways.” Time said to her, smiling sweetly. Of course she would. Always.

Chapter Text

The next day, Ruru was trying to practice his magic. Lanayru was doing his best to give him tips. Ruru had a penchant for fire magic (much to Time's displeasure and Wild's delight), but thunder was… Difficult. Aiming it was a challenge. He'd already knocked himself over a few times. Hyrule and Sun were there, too. Also trying to help.

It was Hyrule who noticed Ruru starting to flag. He knew the signs of magic exhaustion. And Ruru was on the brink of it. “Hey, let's take a break. Get something to eat.” he suggested. Ruru flopped down to sit. Sun, and then Sky, came over and sat with him. “You're getting better with your aim, Ruru!” Sun praised. The little boy gave a lethargic nod before flopping onto his back. Tidal picked that time to wander over and prod Ruru playfully. The boy gave a soft snort before getting up. “Okay, gimme a minute~” Ruru laughed. Hyrule smiled softly. Ruru was warming up to them. Especially Tidal. The dragon was blessed with a good maternal drive. She knew what to do. For the most part. 

Right now she was trying to feed Ruru a pumpkin. Lanayru was just laughing at the situation, highly amused as Tidal cracked open the pumpkin and literally tried to hand feed the boy. Sun was giggling, hanging onto Sky's arm. Hyrule snorted when Ruru flung a piece at her, only for her to catch it in the air. Ruru munched on his pumpkin chunk after that. 

Ruru seemed more energetic after eating, and he wanted to continue practicing his magic. Lanayru helped that time. Showing him how to channel his magic, to concentrate it. The child finally hit his mark, and with an excited yelp, turned and bounced at Lanayru’s feet. “Did you see that?! I did it!” Even Tidal was excited, fluttering her wings rapidly and barking. Lanayru scooped the boy up, bouncing him lightly in his palms. “You did well, boy~” Ruru beamed back, giddy with his success. Lanayru set him down, watching as Ruru scampered up to Hyrule and launched himself into the Traveler's arms. 

Hyrule hugged the little guy, laughing along with him. All was well. Up until a portal opened. All nine heroes, Tidal, and Ruru were unceremoniously dropped onto the ground. Ruru, now spooked, clung to Hyrule tight. “It's okay, Ruru, just a portal.” Hyrule soothed. Ruru looked anxious. “Nobody's gonna take me away, are they?” Ruru whimpered. Twilight made a soft noise, and ran a hand through Ruru's hair. “Nah, nah that ain't gonna happen. We got ya.” Time looked around once he'd recovered, and perked up. “Boys, we're good. It's my Hyrule, and we're right in the pastures of the ranch.” 

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Tidal perked up at the word ‘ranch’. Time looked back at her, and chuckled. “Yes, yes, go see Malon you silly beast~” Time laughed. She bolted for the ranch house, already yelping out Malon's name. The sweet woman came rushing outside, knowing what her presence meant. “Well hello, Tidal!” Malon cooed. Tidal flopped down for her, purring hard. 

The rest of the Chain arrived shortly, Time pulling Malon into a hug. Ruru hid behind Legend, peeking out from behind the Veteran. Tidal chirped to the child encouragingly. “Ruru! Ruru, Malon, friend!” 

This seemed to help calm the boy. Legend walked with Ruru to Malon, encouraging him. The boy smiled shyly at Malon. “Well hello, Ruru~ Come on in!” Malon guided him sweetly inside along with Time and Legend. The others began helping out on the ranch, per usual. Tidal wanted to see Malon. But as she approached the window, she went still.

“You're not in trouble, darlin’, we're just trying to figure out where you came from.” Malon was saying. “So, you said monsters with black blood killed your family, correct?” Time asked gently. A very soft, emotional “yes” came from Ruru. “Th-then the portal took me after a while. A-a-and then those bad men took me…” Tidal felt awful for him… He sounded so sad. She peeked in, then, and saw Malon pull him into a hug. Tidal understood enough to understand Ruru was, essentially, alone. And he was now involved with the portals as well. 

“I-I'm kinda good with magic, I told them, I can heal people a bit, a-a-and the bad men kept calling me ‘Hero's Spirit’ but I don't know what that means! I'm just scared… I just wanted to help people…” Ruru sobbed into Malon's shoulder. Malon gently rocked the boy in her arms, and Time looked heartbroken. He gently scooped the weepy little boy up, Ruru wrapping his arms around Time's neck. “It's alright… Shhhh shh shh… You're safe…” Tidal didn't understand a large chunk of what Ruru had said. Just enough to know he was scared, and had lost his pod prior to this. No wonder he was so frightened… Not only had he been brutally attacked, but he was orphaned! 

Well. She would do her best to help take care of him. Tidal watched as Time held the boy in his arms for some time. She startled when Legend touched her foreleg. He must have stepped out at some point. “He'll be okay, Tidal. Come on.” Tidal let Legend lead her away from the house. 

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Hyrule watched Legend lead Tidal back over. She seemed… Distressed. As did Legend. “Hyrule… Ruru's got nobody left. He just gave us the whole story. I don't think he's got the Hero's Spirit, but he's definitely been sent to us for a reason. He's so young… Too young…” Legend seemed to crumple after that. Sinking to his knees with a shaky sigh. Pulling his cap off and running his hands through his hair. He looked deeply distressed. Hyrule looked up at Tidal, who looked just as upset. 

“Well… We'll just have to look after him, won't we?” Hyrule said gently, sitting down beside Legend. “He's not a Link. I don't get it…” Legend looked ready to cry. Hyrule pulled him into a hug. Tidal lightly lapped Legend's back as well. A few hours went by before Ruru came back out. He looked tired. “Hey, how're you feeling?” The kid shrugged, then sat down. Hyrule patted his shoulder in a soothing manner. 

“It's just… A lot to take in? I'm only eight?” Ruru sighed, rubbing his eyes with his palms. “Time said Hylia probably chose me to help you guys. I dunno how much good I'll be…” Hyrule made a soft noise of concern at that. Warriors, who had wandered over, gently picked the boy up, settling him against one hip. “Hey, now… You were doing great with your magic earlier!” the Captain encouraged. Tidal reached over and tapped Ruru's head. “See? Even Tidal agrees.” Hyrule said. This at least got him to smile. Tidal rumbled sweetly, smiling at Ruru. 

~

Ruru didn't feel that special. He was just a little boy. Yet he had so many people, plus a dragon, who seemed to think he was special. He was snug in Warriors’ arms, the Captain carrying him over to a hay bale and setting him on it. “You're stronger than you think, kid. Don't sell yourself short.” he told him. He gave Warriors a shy nod, but broke into a grin when Tidal licked his back. 

“Tidaaaaal, that tickles!” 

Her nose then wiggled against his side, getting even more giggles out of him. Warriors started laughing, and then Ruru watched as Tidal did the same to him! 

“Waugh! Hey no, get Ruru! Get him!” Warriors cackled, trying to dodge Tidal's ticklish assault. Ruru heard Hyrule snort as Warriors stumbled, and Tidal really got him! The Captain was trying valiantly to squirm away, but to no avail. Ruru then joined in, tickling his ribs! Warriors yelped, then grabbed him. Ruru squealed when Warriors’ fingers danced across his ribs. “Ah! No! Tidal, get him!” Tidal seemed to eagerly comply, and mimicked Warriors’ tactic of going for the ribs with fingers. 

__

Tidal huffed with laughter. Lightly poking Warriors’ sides and watching him try to squirm away while laughing himself! Ruru darted in and out, getting a few pokes in before Warriors got him by the ankles and playfully pulled him over. The young boy squealed just as playfully, wriggling away from Warriors as he tickled the child's feet. Tidal was content to watch the two play. It meant Ruru was warming up to them. And this would help them to help him.

Chapter Text

Three days after being portaled away from Lon-Lon Ranch and to Wild's Hyrule…

Ruru was petrified. The dragon he was facing was the same kind as Tidal. Smaller, younger. And very fucking angry. Ruru shrank back when the other hissed at him. He'd been nosing about the waterfalls by the stable in Faron. Then a storm hit. And he'd ducked into a cave. Now he was here.

“I-I'm sorry!” he squeaked out. The rubino dragon growled low, tail lashing. The albino child began backing up. His heart was roaring in his ears. Ruru turned to bolt, when he froze. In front of him were three Hinoxes. Three. Ruru weighed his options. Piss off the dragon again, die a quick death, or the Hinoxes, who would probably torture him before eating him. Or, option three… “HELP!!!” he screamed, before darting back into the cave. 

The dragon snarled, red-pink eyes narrowing. Ruru squeezed his eyes shut as he came to a stop, bracing for a blow. That blow ended up coming from one of the Hinoxes. Ruru was thrown across the cave. The boy tried to get up, to call upon his magic, but he was too dazed. The Hinox grabbed him by his arm, and dangled him. Ruru hissed at it, trying to look fierce. The Hinox merely laughed at him. Then made to eat him. He was dropped. 

__

Ritz groaned. She didn't trust this Hylian. But he was also only a little kid. Who had made to leave when she displayed her displeasure at his presence. Well now he was facing exceptional circumstances. Like being eaten by a Hinox. She charged it, biting down on its jaw hard. The boy was spit out, bouncing off the thing's gut to the ground, and the little guy took off deeper into her den. Lovely.

The agitated Tidewing proceeded to severely maul the Hinox. Mauled it badly enough it got to its feet and fled, the other two following. Ritz followed the boy's scent, then. She found him trying to find a way out. Covered in saliva, bleeding, and absolutely terrified. He took one look at her, and screamed a name out. A name that changed this whole thing. “TIDAL, HELP!” Ritz dropped her semi-hostile stance. He… He knew Tidal? She tilted her head. “Ti… Tiiiidaaallll…” she croaked out. The child froze, pink eyes wide. It was then she noticed his left hand. It was bloody, and he was missing part of his middle finger. Ritz moaned in concern, closing the distance between them. “D-don't eat me…” Ritz curled her lip and snorted in disgust. 

<Eat you?! Fuck no! Ugh, why do all you little things think I would want to eat you… Lemme see that hand…> Ritz grabbed one little arm in thumb and forefinger. The blood was from a cut on his wrist. His finger, or what was left of it, was healed over. Leaving a jagged, scarred stump.

“Th-the Yiga hurt me…” 

Oh. Oh. 

Ritz blinked. She looked at him, long and hard. She delicately curled a hand around him, picking him up. She turned her head to the right, showing him her own scars. Tidal appeared off to the side, the others riding on her back. <What happened?!> she demanded. <Hinox nearly ate him. He is slimy and gross.> Ritz gently wiped drool off him. Hyrule was climbing up her back in seconds, trying to get to the child. “Ruru! Ruru, are you okay?!” 

__

Ruru was still frightened, that much Hyrule could see. He looked to him with wide, round eyes. “Th-the Hinox almost got me… Wh-who is this dragon…” Hyrule gave him a soft look as he slid down the dragon's shoulder, and then made his way over. The teen patted Ritz. “Her name is Ritz. She won't hurt you. Ritz, can you put us down?” 

Hyrule and Ruru were lowered gently. The little boy clung to him. But Ritz seemed genuinely interested in Ruru. Her eyes now wide and round. Ruru tried to hide behind him with a frightened whimper. Ritz gently hooked one tiny arm with a finger, and tugged him out into the open. She cooed. Ruru took Hyrule’s hand. “H-h-hi Ritz…” Ruru stammered. Ritz chirped, then licked the child's hair. Hyrule laughed softly at that. “She likes you.” 

Ruru gulped, nodding. “S-she was so angry though… Why did she turn nice?” Pink eyes watched as Hyrule gently lifted his left hand. “The Yiga hurt her, too. She was probably scared more than angry. She probably saw your hand, and related to you.” The eight year old blinked owlishly. Then his lip wobbled. Ritz had been hurt as he had been. Badly enough she was afraid of Hylians. Much like an abused dog. “R-Ritz, I'm s-s-sorry they hurt you!” he sobbed, letting go of Hyrule's hand to try and hug Ritz's face. 

Hyrule's jaw dropped as he watched Ritz lean her head down to the little boy. This was big for Ritz… To accept a stranger so quickly. She allowed Ruru to hug her, the boy slowly calming down. He worked on getting the boy to take a potion next. The child drank it, handing the empty bottle back to him. “Thank you… My sides ache… But it's better…” Hyrule rubbed his back in a comforting manner. And Ritz… Ritz gently lapped Ruru's head. She then picked him up, very carefully, in her jaws. She sat back and gently set him in her palms.

Hyrule looked back as the rest of the Chain came over once all was calm. Tidal was especially fussy. She was whining at Ritz, who whined softly back. “Hey… Hey, he's gonna be okay.” Hyrule told them both. Warriors approached them carefully, bolder with Tidal present. “Hey, Ruru, you okay buddy?” he asked gently.

__

Tidal watched as Ruru made an odd motion with his hand. “ ‘So-so'? Can't say I blame you there. Wanna tell us what happened?” To her surprise, it was Ritz who answered. She delicately handed Ruru to her… 

And had things not been so dire, it may have been amusing as Ritz did her best impression of a hinox. One eye shut, making guttural snorting sounds, and looking menacing. 

Tidal was quick to pop out a “hinox” as Warriors looked spooked. 

“Oh, ohhhhh. Oh SHIT–”

Ritz gestured to Ruru, then mimed putting something in her mouth. And oh boy. Tidal held the little guy close as Warriors exploded. He was ANGRY. “The hinox tried to eat him?! Oh please tell me you killed it–” 

A spear flew across the cave, grazing Ritz's nose. Tidal snarled, sliding Ruru on the ground behind her. <It is them! The third hinox behind! See its wounds!> Ritz spat and hissed. Tidal roared, a sound that rattled loose stones on the ground. Warriors was already charging, the rest of the Chain following suit. Three hinoxes, ARMED hinoxes, vs nine seasoned fighters. And two very angry Tidewings. 

Tidal made the error of assuming they had the upper hand. But Ritz's young age, and inexperience came into play. Everyone watched in horror as the lead hinox speared Ritz in the jaw. Pinning her mouth shut! She was forced to the ground. 

<RITZ!> “RITZ!”

Tidal, Hyrule and Time all attacked the offending monster. It staggered back as Tidal rammed her horns against it, Hyrule pouncing on it with his sword and Time slicing its legs.

__

Ruru ran to Ritz once she went down. The spear went through her chin, and it must have stuck through the roof of her mouth as she was unable to fully open it. She was trying to pull it out, and was struggling. Blood was pouring from one nostril. “Hey… Hey… Let me help…” Ruru said softly. He flinched as one hinox gave a death knell, a quick glance over revealing Sky had taken one down. 

The albino turned back to Ritz. She was hissing softly, but she let him draw near. It was bad. It was really bad. The spear had in fact pierced the roof of her mouth. “Oh… Oh it's bad… Ah…” Ruru peered further into her mouth. He could crawl in there… Get the spearhead to let go… But what if he got bitten? Or worse, swallowed? Ritz whined in pain, starting to shiver. Ruru took a deep breath, and put a hand on her jaw. “I-I'm gonna help, okay? I'm gonna help. Please don't eat the help…” With that, he squeezed between her teeth. He reached up, and rotated the spear. 

__

Ritz whined. It hurt… It hurt so badly… But Ruru was trying to help her. Finally, finally the spear let go. She snapped her mouth shut, being careful not to bite or ingest the little guy inside, and lifted her head. The spear dropped to the ground with a clatter. She dropped her head back down, and parted her jaws to let the child out. He was COVERED in blood. HER blood. The boy turned, and something… Odd… Happened. Ruru’s hands began to glow softly. Things started to feel better. But as she felt better, Ruru began to look ill. 

She chittered, reaching a hand out as he staggered. Ritz noted, belatedly, that she no longer heard the sounds of fighting. The little boy's eyes rolled back, and he collapsed into her hand. <Tidal, Tidal help! What do I do?!> The older dragon looked him over, barking for Hyrule. The teen took a look, and he sighed. “Oh buddy… Ah, he'll be okay. He just used up most of his magic– oh. OH. Hey Time?”

“Yeah?”

“Ruru can heal. He just knocked himself out helping Ritz.”

“. . . Holy sh–”

Ritz made a low keening sound, reaching down to gingerly poke Ruru as he now laid in Time's arms. The boy was breathing, steadily. He was alive. Ritz gingerly lapped Ruru's hand, and he opened his eyes. Time brushed snow white hair away from pink eyes. 

Tidal crooned soothingly as Ruru started to cry. Ritz ran a finger up and down one little arm as Time hugged the child gently. “It's okay. It's over. You did good, little one. You did good…”

Chapter Text

A week after the Hinox attack at Floria Falls…

They had all been portaled to Time's era. They were halfway to the ranch when they stopped for the night. Even Tidal was exhausted. 

Ruru, Legend and Hyrule had gone on a patrol. It was then that Ruru heard something odd. He alerted his two companions, and they walked even further from camp towards the sound. 

Hyrule came to a jarring halt. Ears twitching. “Oh… Oh, shit… I know what that is…” The three boys rushed on, finding what looked like an old cabin. The sound became clear.

It was a baby Tidewing.

In Time's era. Tidewings.

Hyrule crept closer to the building. The teal and copper Tidewing was restrained. A muzzle clamped the poor thing's mouth shut. It still moaned pitifully. Pink-red eyes were wide and frightened. Legend stalked around the other way, peering in through windows. There were two men inside. Ruru had gone to the door. “Ruru, no!” Legend hissed. 

The boy slapped the door, hard, then ducked off to the side. The two men ran outside, looking for the offender. Ruru slipped inside behind them, Hyrule and Legend following, and shut the door. Legend bolted it shut just as the two poachers turned around and realized what had happened. 

“We gotta free him… I think it's a he… His mama and papa are probably looking for him!” Ruru urged. Hyrule began cutting ropes off quick as he could. Legend was holding the bolt in place, doing his best to keep the poachers outside. Ruru pulled the muzzle off, and the little thing wailed. 

“Ssssssaaaaaaaaaaaeeeeeeeeeemmmm! Sssssssaaaaaaaaeeeeemmmm!” 

“SHUT IT UP!”

“THE TWO-TONE ONE WILL HEAR IT!”

“WELL GOOD! LET THEM HEAR IT! YOU ASSHOLES HAVE NO–”

Ruru tuned the rest out. Saem, he'd go with that, looked around four feet at his shoulder. Pony-sized. He got the leg restraints off when the ground shook. Hyrule startled when one of the two men broke one of the windows and tried to pull him outside. Ruru bit the man's hand. “You brats!” The man ripped Ruru outside instead, throwing him to the ground. Hyrule was at his side in seconds, trading blows with the attacker.

Ruru was grabbed by the second man, who had given up trying to force entry. A knife went to his throat. “Freeze! Or I slit his throat!” Hyrule and Legend went still. The ground shook again. Ruru, frightened, took the chance to squirm away and dart back inside. He found Saem had, for the most part, gotten to his feet. But was tethered to the floor. He heard fighting outside. One man entered, and Saem screeched. This time… This time the ground, windows, and door shook. Legend tackled the man to the floor, and then a great gust of wind blew the door shut. “You… You idiots… You brought Two-Tone right to us!” the man under Legend hissed.

__

Two-Tone glared inside a window. Before he could act, however, he heard scuffling behind the cabin. One of the Hylians he recognized, but the smaller one pinned underneath… Was fighting for his life. “You've doomed us all you idiot!” the poacher spat, something glinting in his hand before it plunged into the other's side. The younger one yelped, then punched his attacker in the nose.

“You have NO right to take that dragon!”

The younger one… Was he trying to help Saem? He sounded upset…

The poacher stabbed the younger one again, and Two-Tone lashed out. The angry father crushed the man under his full weight before turning his attention back to the boy. The boy was climbing through a broken window, and another fight broke out inside the cabin. The other poacher shoved the boy down, then another boy attacked the poacher. The two scuffled. Saem looked right at him.

<Papa!>

Saem yelped as the fight moved towards him. The boy with the pink streak pushed the poacher off. “Hyrule, cut the tether and get them out!” Two-Tone proceeded, then, to rip the door off the cabin. The fight halted. Hyrule had just cut the tether. The other boy had the poacher in a headlock. His eyes caught on the surprise one on the corner. 

A little boy.

Snow-white hair, pale skin, and eyes just like Saem's. The poacher head-butted Pink-Streak, kicked Hyrule in the face, and grabbed the little boy. “One way or another I'm gonna make a profit tonight!” he snarled.

Yeah, no. 

Two-Tone reached a hand inside, trying to grab the cruel man. <Bad man! Bad man!> Saem barked, and promptly bit the man's rear! Crunch! Saem yanked back, causing the man to fall. He still did not release the child. “HYRULE, LEGEND, HELP!” 

Legend got up off the floor, nose bleeding, but responded. He began trying to pry his fingers off the boy.

__

Ruru was terrified. The man knocked Legend away, then scrambled out the broken window! He did not get far. The adult Tidewing, Two-Tone they called him. He grabbed him around the middle. Yanking him up. Poor Ruru got pulled up with, the man's nails drawing blood from his forearm. 

“Lemme go!” he cried. Ruru went silent when huge fingers curled around his body. He went still. The grip wasn't rough, but it wasn't exactly gentle either. The poacher's wild screams were abruptly cut off with a wet crunch. The man's hand holding onto him let go. 

Two-Tone had squeezed the life out of the poacher. Literally. The hand holding him moved. Green and yellow eyes stared back.

Ruru started to cry. 

“W-we're trying t-t-to help…” he sobbed. The grip around him loosened a bit. Not enough to drop him, but enough that it wasn't so constricting. He heard Saem make distressed sounds again. Then Legend was talking. “Hyrule! No no no… Ruru! Ruru whe–!” 

Two-Tone was back in full view of the cabin. Peering through the broken window. Ruru still in hand. The boy squirmed, still very frightened. His eyes went to Hyrule, who was laying in a pool of blood. Saem was trying to get him up, wailing softly. Legend then spotted Ruru. “Legend…” he whimpered. Legend gently pulled on Saem's tail, getting his attention. “Hey, hey look… It's your daddy. Let's go see him, yeah?” 

Ruru shook as Two-Tone shuffled to the doorway. Legend came out first, eyes wide. Then Saem. “Okay… Okay, you got your kid back… Now put him down… Kid for a kid, yeah?” Two-Tone tilted his head at Legend, then looked at Ruru. Ruru, who was crying. Tears running down his little cheeks. Two-Tone gave a soft drone, and Ruru felt a gentle touch to his head. Warm breath billowed down his shirt before he was carefully set down. 

__

Two-Tone had not meant to frighten the one called Ruru so badly. Saem kept looking back inside. Antsy. 

<Papa… The nice boy…>

<I know. I will go get him, okay? Stay there.>

Two-Tone reached an arm inside the cabin, ignoring Legend's alarmed cries. Fingers curled around a limp, warm body, and he carefully withdrew his arm. Hyrule his name was. He was alive. But hurt, very badly. Blood dripped down his hand. 

“Don't hurt him! Please! Please don't hurt my friend!” 

“Put him down! You got your kid, go!”

Suddenly Legend was aiming something at him. One of the poacher's bows. Two-Tone bristled slightly. 

“I don't wanna hurt you, man… C'mon… Put him down…”

He could see the conflict in Legend's eyes. He really didn't want to attack… But he felt threatened for his companion… Saem whined. <Papa no hurt nice boy… Papa help!> Saem tried to say. But Hylians did not understand Tidewing speech. Two-Tone produced the healing enzyme, and started lapping Hyrule's side. Legend, incredibly, immediately dropped his aggressive stance. Head tilting. “Thank you…” 

Thank you… Those were good words. Ruru, however… “Noooo! Don't eat him! Please!” Eat him?! No… 

Two-Tone lowered his palm, making Ruru skid to a stop. He let the little boy see the healing wounds. The soft purple glow. He leaned his head towards Ruru, curious about him again. His eyes… Two-Tone chirped softly. <It is alright, little one. I will not eat your friend. I am helping him.> Ruru only flinched at his vocalizations, but didn't run. He didn't understand, but that was okay. Actions were powerful. 

The father dragon gently laid Hyrule on the ground, then reached for Ruru. The child shied away. <Easy… I will not hurt you.> he rumbled. Legend was torn between Hyrule and Ruru, he could see. He turned his attention to Legend, then. <Thank you. You helped my son. I will help you.> Two-Tone gently grabbed Legend in one hand, and gingerly scooped Hyrule up in his jaws.

Then he began moving. “Wh-where are you taking us?! Now hold on–!” Legend squirmed. Two-Tone sighed around Hyrule, and carried on. Pausing and looking back at Ruru and Saem. <Come, little boy! Papa help! Papa good!> His son gently took Ruru's hand in his mouth, tugging him along. 

__

Where were they going?! Ruru balked, scared. Saem let go, warbling to Two-Tone. The adult Tidewing turned back, and approached him. He lowered his wings, using them as forelegs. Legend looked a bit worried. “Hey! Be gentle with him!” he snipped. Ruru squeezed his eyes shut as he was picked up. Then they were moving again. 

Ruru in one giant hand, Legend in the other. “Oh… Oh… Ruru, I think… I think he's taking us to the camp…” 

That… Didn't make him feel much better. He was about to cry again. Saem suddenly appeared, perched on his daddy's forearm. The baby Tidewing reached a paw out, and very gently patted his head. Overwhelmed, Ruru hid his face in his hands. “Ruru, Ruru, it's alright… Hey…” Legend's words went over his head. He felt trapped, he was scared… Suddenly they stopped. 

“Ruru!”

He knew that voice. 

It was Tidal! They'd reached the camp! Tidal was on her feet in seconds. Her eyes went to Two-Tone's face, and she gently took Hyrule from his jaws. Legend was set down carefully. But he was not. Two-Tone held Ruru up to eye level. He vaguely heard the others talking below. Laser focused on Two-Tone and what his intentions possibly were. 

A huge finger brushed over one eye. Two-Tone's own eyes narrowed in concentration. His hair was ruffled with care. Then his left hand was noticed. Ruru yanked his hand back when the dragon tried to mouth it. 

Tidal growled faintly. Going quiet when Two-Tone whined in reply. Tidal was making no move to intervene… But she was watching closely. Even with Saem going between her legs like it was a game. 

__

<He is scared.>

<I know he is. But I mean him no harm. And I want him to see that.>

Two-Tone understood the female's warning. Ruru's frightened little face tugged at his heart. He gave a soft whistle. Blinking nice and slow. He leaned his head down, and gave Ruru a soft lick to the face. With that, he gently set him down. 

<See? Nothing to fear.> Two-Tone gently nudged Ruru towards the other Hylians. The boy stayed put. “T-Tidal…?” The female responded immediately. She gently scruffed him by his tunic, and deposited him in her folded left wing. <He likes to hide there. Ruru gets overwhelmed.> she explained. Two-Tone startled a bit when he heard a yelp. 

<Saem, be GENTLE.> His son had been trying to play with one of the other Hylians. And it looked like he'd nipped a touch too hard. Tidal chittered. <Little one, gentle. Their skin is not as tough as ours. Sky prefers cuddles and hugs. Do not nip him.> Saem tilted his head, but then gently licked “Sky” where he had nipped, and then pushed his face into the boy's chest. 

<Who are you? And how did you find my friends?> Tidal asked Two-Tone, slowly lowering Ruru to the ground after a few minutes. 

<Your friends found us, actually. Poachers took my son. Your little friends found them first. Poacher hurt, ah, Hyrule, is it? The scrawny one?> 

Two-Tone looked at Ruru again, and grunted when he saw a man with a wolf pelt looking at… Oh. Oh that's right. 

<Hold that thought.>

Two-Tone gently prodded Wolf Pelt. When he moved aside, the father dragon gently lapped Ruru's forearm. Where the cruel man's fingers had scratched him. The scratches began to heal over quickly. 

“Thank you…” Ruru said softly. 

Two-Tone chirped faintly, wiggling his horns at Ruru. His odd-colored eyes widened when Ruru came towards him, then. <To answer who we are, I am Two-Tone and my son is Saem, for the noise he likes to make.>

Two-Tone looked down again as he felt a light pat on his foreleg. “Ru… Ru?” he tried softly. The little boy perked up at his name, then proceeded to give him the names of everyone else present. Tidal gave him a gentle nuzzle, to which Ruru responded by kissing her nose. She gave him a loving lick.

__

“Heeheeeeee, that tickles!” Ruru squirmed back playfully. Tidal had a way of calming things down. Time was watching Two-Tone and Saem closely. Especially as Saem came up to him and plopped his head in the Old Man's lap. “Hello, little one~” Time greeted. Saem snuffled contentedly. 

Ruru saw Saem glance over at where Hyrule was laying, then wandered over. He nosed Hyrule's hand, the boy responding by giving him a pat. “Hey… You okay, little fella?” Saem responded to this by flopping down beside Hyrule, and attempting to groom him. Lightly nibbling his hair and very gently nibbling along his arms. Ruru smiled, then went up to Time. “You said we're close to the ranch?”

“Mhm~”

“I-I'd feel a lot better if we went there tonight…”

Time gave an understanding nod. 

He asked Tidal to carry Hyrule, and they were off. Two-Tone and Saem followed along, vocalizing with Tidal. Ruru gave a surprised squeak when he found himself being picked up. Two-Tone had been the one to scoop him up. Then suddenly Four was with him, the pair held in cupped palms. “He's awfully friendly, all things considered…” Four pondered aloud. Ruru shrugged his shoulders, just wanting to get to the ranch where it would be safe. 

After an hour of walking, they arrived. Two-Tone set him and Four down gently, before sniffing about curiously. Time, who had taken Hyrule back, was in the process of trying to quietly get inside when Saem just squeezed past! “Nonono hey no–!” Time hissed. Ruru ran in after, trying to stop Saem. Suddenly a door whipped open, and Malon looked ready for a fight, then froze. 

__

Saem froze too. The lady relaxed after a moment though. “Hi, Malon… Sorry… Saem's friendly.” Saem lightly headbutted Malon, purring sweetly. She patted him softly. “Um, Hyrule got hurt… Legend too…”

Saem backed up so Malon could get through. He retreated back outside and got a light scolding from Tidal. <You are too big to go into their den. You must stay outside.> Tidal told him. He gave a little boof, then toddled over to a large building. He smelled grass, dried but still good. Saem nudged at the door. Before Two-Tone could scold, Twilight opened the door. “What, you wanna go in the barn? You'll fit, yeah!” The tired kit toddled on inside and curled up in the dried grass.  

<Sleep. It is alright. I am just outside.>

His papa's words gave him confidence, and he fell asleep. That morning, he woke up to something stroking his head. He opened his eyes to see the Nice Boy from last night. Hyrule, he'd been called. Ruru was there too. “Hey little buddy… How're you feeling?” Saem tilted his head. He didn't understand anything Hyrule had just said, but his tone sounded friendly. Saem licked him, then slowly got up. Stretching. Ruru held something out to him. It smelled sweet. “Go on~ Eat it~” Saem chirped in confusion. 

Ruru pressed the sweet smelling, red ball to his snout. Ohhhhhh! Saem opened his mouth and accepted it. His ears flicked up as he chewed. “You like that? It's an apple!” Okay. He liked apples now. Two-Tone beckoned him out with a low warble. <Hi Papa!> 

~~~

Two-Tone purred deeply as he nuzzled his kit. Eyes landing on Ruru after a moment. Then he gently nuzzled him too. <What draws you to Ruru so, Two-Tone?> asked Tidal, who came to sit off to the side of the barn. <His eyes. They look like my son's eyes.> The male dragon gently grabbed Ruru, picking him up. He cupped him in his palms, purring softly to him. The boy seemed kind, with how he treated his kit. Ruru had seemed startled at first. But now he was more relaxed. 

“Hi, Two-Tone~ Um, thank you, for helping us last night. Thank you so much! I bet the ranch will be safer now too with the bad guys gone!” Two-Tone rumbled softly in reply, wiggling his nose. He looked over to see Saem trying to help with… Something. He snorted in amusement as it became clear Saem was trying to help Malon with the cows. Bringing her pails. Ruru giggled brightly in his palms at the sight, too. <Would she let us stay?> he asked Tidal. She wiggled her horns at him in reply. <I think she would enjoy your company and protection.>

Two-Tone, Ruru in cupped hands, headed over to Malon. He set Ruru down carefully, before just as carefully picking up Malon. She gave a surprised squeak, but didn't react in a negative manner. He cupped her in one palm, curiously touching her hair with his other hand. Despite Time's startled, colorful exclamation upon spotting the scene, Malon laughed. “Well ain't you just sweet! Tidal was interested in my hair too~” 

__

Hyrule was trying valiantly not to laugh. Time's face was priceless. And Wind's reaction to hearing him curse so colorfully was even funnier. 

“Time, Time come on, he's not going to hurt her, and Tidal's right there–”

“Sky, that is my wife he has in his fucking hands, we don't know him that well yet–”

“Link, dear, come now, I ain't hurt none!”

Saem mewed sweetly, going over to Time and rubbing his face against him. Hyrule snorted as Time dragged a hand down his face. 

“Two-Tone, could you put her down? You're gonna give the old man here a heart attack–” Hyrule had to duck as Time took a half-hearted swipe at him, but Two-Tone did comply. Malon strode over to Time, laughing brightly. “I'm fine, fairy boy~ He's mighty gentle!” Time sighed, rubbing his eyes. Then he was being gently picked up next! Two-Tone was very careful. A few fairies fluttered over, tittering. “Two-Tone did not mean to startle you~” one fairy giggled. Time couldn’t help but smile at this. “Two-Tone wishes to remain by the ranch too. His little one feels safe here.” 

Time studied the dragon's face. He looked back at Saem, who was still trying to help with chores. Time sighed, smiling faintly. “Alright… But you'll have to help around the ranch, understand?” The fairy appeared to relay this to Two-Tone, for the beast gave him a nod. “He says he will do his best. Protect your mate.” That was… That was actually reassuring… The idea of a Tidewing keeping watch over the ranch and his beloved wife. Yes. Yes, they could stay.

Chapter Text

Tidal didn't think she'd ever seen Wild look so crabby. Wind, ever the prankster, kept poking him through his blankets. She was ready to intervene. Then she noticed Ruru watching with avid interest. She followed his gaze. Four did as well.

“Wild… Please don't break his nose… Go for the legs…” Four mumbled. Oh boy. Wild had his hand on another pillow. Watching Wind closely. Tidal realized a little too late what was about to happen. 

“Wind–” 

Before she could finish her warning, Wild's arm swung out, pillow in hand. The fluffy weapon of doom connected dead-center with Wind's legs. The Sailor's legs flew out from under him, sending him skidding across the ground and plowing into Sky! Tidal gave a faint “uh oh” as Sky glared at Wind. Then at Wild. The pillow flew back at the Champion with lethal accuracy. Ruru cackled, prompting Tidal to hush him. 

Four grunted when the offending pillow bounced off of him. Sky's eyes widened. Ruru snorted hard. “Four nice… Good Four…” Tidal said softly. She was hoping to mitigate damages. Four turned his gaze on her. With a whine she tucked her head into her shoulders. The pillow sailed in a great arc, nailing Sky in the head. Things got a bit crazy after that. Sky jumped up, pillow in hand, and absolutely walloped Four with it. Wind swiped Twilight's pillow right out from under his head and joined the fray. 

Tidal watched with wide eyes. Ruru darted away from her and joined in as well, taking out a groggy Warriors with a well placed pillow swing. Even Legend and Hyrule got into it! Then a pillow bounced off her nose. She grabbed it in her lips before it could be reclaimed. 

__

Hyrule watched as Tidal was clearly thinking things over. Eyeing them all. Time, somehow, was sleeping through the nonsense. Ruru was cackling away, clutching his chosen weapon to his chest. Hyrule had to bite his lip as she started lining her snout up with Twilight.

“Tidal… Tidaaaaal what are you doing… Oh no wait wait waIT–”

The pillow launched from her mouth, directly into the Rancher's torso. He wheezed, staggering backwards, before swinging it back at Tidal! Ruru was glued to the ground now, laughing hysterically. It swiftly went from a free-for-all, to Team Tidal vs Team Twilight. Twilight, Hyrule, Wild, Ruru and Sky against Tidal, Legend, Warriors, Four and Wind. 

Hyrule was giggling madly as he thumped Legend over the back with a pillow, dancing back as Legend swung out in retaliation. He saw Ruru absolutely deck Wind in the face with his pillow, the Sailor promptly sweeping his legs out with a strong swipe. Four was running circles around Sky. Wild latched onto Twilight's back, taking him down. Warriors whacked the Champion over the head a few times, feathers popping out of the pillow. 

Then Hyrule turned. The last thing he remembered seeing was Tidal staring him down, then a pillow coming at him.

__

Everything stopped when Hyrule was laid out on the ground. Tidal's pillow had plowed into his face so hard, it had exploded into a cloud of feathers. Hyrule went down. The sound of impact roused Time. He took one look, and sighed. Tidal looked at him with owlish eyes. “. . . Sorrrrrry…” she said faintly. 

Time dusted feathers off the unconscious Traveler. “Hyrule. Hey. You good?” He patted the boy's face. Hazel eyes fluttered open. “Oof… New rule, guys… No headshots…” Tidal shuffled in place, head bowed in shame. Ruru however… Was clearly trying not to laugh. Tidal scowled. “No…” she grumbled. Hyrule sat up, looking dazed. “Man… We should teach her to do that in battle…” Tidal ruffled her wings uncomfortably. She reached over and dusted a few more feathers off him. 

Ruru snorted hard. “That was a great shot…” Tidal dropped a blanket over the little boy at that. Wind snickered as Ruru complained and tried to wrestle the blanket off him. Hyrule, still dazed, crawled over to Legend, and then just sat there. Staring skyward. 

“... I hear colors.” 

“You what?”

Tidal groaned, hiding her face behind her wings. Oh she'd done it now… She broke Hyrule. Twilight patted her flank. 

“What's wrong?”

“Br… Brok… En… Hyrule…”

“Broken Hyrule? Oh, ohhhhhh okay he will be fine! You didn't break him–”

“Broke…”

“Oh now you stop, you were only playing~”

Tidal whined loudly, pulling on her own ears. Hyrule looked up at her, then proceeded to make grabby hands at her. “Hey, pick me up! I'm fiiine, you didn't break me~” Legend made a disgusting noise of amusement deep in his throat, gaining a swat from Warriors. When she didn't reach back, Hyrule shuffled over to her. He leaned heavily against her. “It stung a bit, but I'm fine! Can you do that with rocks the next time we fight monsters?” The dragon tilted her head, mulling that one over. With a deep sigh she offered a cupped palm to Hyrule. 

__

Ruru had to bite back an ugly snort as Hyrule more or less flopped into Tidal’s palm. The older boy was still clearly dazed, but otherwise seemed okay. Hyrule was, for the time being, content to curl up where he was. Twilight handed Hyrule a potion with a chuckle.

“We really should teach her to do that in a fight… This would work really well…” Ruru said. The young boy giggled as Tidal ruffled his hair with her other hand. Warriors was chuckling now too. “She's a good shot, I will say that!” the Captain laughed. Ruru got a new pillow, and held it out to Tidal. Sky gave a bark of laughter, but still intervened. “Noooo, we're not doing this again~” Sky cackled, now having to play keep-away with Tidal. 

“Pillow? Pillow now?” Tidal requested. Sky shook his head. “No, no pillow~ Not if you're going to spit it at someone.” the Chosen Hero lightly scolded. Hyrule got everyone's attention when he started snoring. Ruru was happy to join the Traveler as he slept. Tidal cupped both hands together to better hold them. Ruru peered over the large blue fingers at Sky. “Can I have the pillow please?” Ruru asked sweetly. Sky relented, and let him have it. Ruru curled against Hyrule, fluffing the pillow up before nuzzling his head into it.