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Chapter Text

The Chain had been exploring Warriors Hyrule when they got ambushed. And by magic based enemies no less. Fucking wizzrobes and their new abilities to open portals summoning beast upon beast to go after them. The sword of swords clanged against flesh and commands shouted to one another to prevent injury.

“Dammit just how many are there!?” Legend yells, as he felled another Lizalfos, hissing in disdain as the thing bled black blood. 

“Just hold strong boys! Pup you have good aim on that Wizzrobe?”Time yells out , pulling his sword from another monster turning as he saw Twilight scoff, dodging between a few moblins trying to get an aim with his bow on the magic user while warriors covered him.

“No good Time! Damn thing is faster than any others we've faced!” Twilight yells back, Warriors blocking another attack as the Wizzrobe disappears again, opening another portal making Wind yell out in fury.

“Oh gods not them!” he screams as a wave of Miniblins emerge into the battle field

NYANYA NYA NYA!

“Kill it with fire!” Wind screeches before bombs suddenly go off Wild delivering that fiery explosion of pyromancy he was well known for.

“If this keeps up well be over run Time- we need a new plan, Twi’s a damn good shot but unless we slow that thing down-” Warrior yells out, as another explosion goes off starling all the boys, turning to see Wild having blown up at least another 20 miniblins and felled a tree on the same moment. One portal sizzles out of existence. Somehow in that instance the explosion startled even the Wizzrobe and Twilight managed to sink an arrow into its chest, which only seemed to enrage it. The Wizzrobe screeches as it summons a larger portal, an infected Darknut charging through it straight at Time.

“Time, look out!” Four yells, as the older hero back flips out of the way,before ducking into a roll to slash at the armor ,causing several pieces to fall off to the ground. But like the Wizzrobe, the thing was a lot faster than normal and managed to heave its sword into Time sending him flying.

“TIME!” Twilight yells, not hesitating to switch straight to his blade and run to the older hero, narrowing coming between him and the Darknut ,grunting as he takes the full force of a swing to his shield before bashing it back into huge knight, throwing it off kilter and jumping straight into a Helm Splitter combo knocking the enemy down, but right before he was about to go in for the kill his hair stands on end as a dark pulse of magic makes him shudder. He barely managed to turn before a wave of dark energy slammed into him pulling a blood curdling scream from him.

“PUP!”

“Twilight!”

“TWI!”

The heroes all yell out watching as that damned Wizzrobes, obviously pissed Twilight had shot him, shot a dark beam of dark magic straight at their brother engulfing him in black flames. His screams pierced their ears watching in horror as tendrils crawled up him,black coating through his veins, literally. The pulsing magic had a barrier they couldn't get close to even with Four and Wind trying to hack at it. Twilight's body shook as he fell to his knees, his voice screaming raw as he felt the dark magic trying to pull him under. It felt evil with this magic… not like the Twili magic, it was trying to change him from the inside out, like it was trying to turn him into a monster. His body burned, eyesight flickering as he collapsed to his side. His brothers ran forward to engage the magic beast ,being blocked by hoards of minions to protect it. 

A familiar burning came from his left hand as his head lolled , eyes falling weakly on his hand, his Triforce resonating desperately. It flickered before it seared brightly creating a flash , ripping another scream from Twilight, making his brother jerk their heads towards him, as a white light exploding outward, shattering the dark magic barrier around him and tendrils of light blasted into the hoards around his brothers disintegrating them to nothing. It even knocked the Wizzrobe down stunning it. 

“Pup!” Time yells as the light dies down, and everyone squints to regain their sight after such a bright flash. However he pales the moment he lays eyes on Twilight. Or rather… where he SHOULD have been. Now only a pile of clothes and gear- his tunic, chainmail and wolven pelt cape laid in a heap, shield and sword scarred around it. He was just… gone- 

All the heroes stared in shock at where their brother once stood, now just… gone. A raged Filled cry rang around them as Wild charged the downed Wizzrobe and sliced it to kingdom come. Black blood stained the earth, and he kept hacking even after it was dead before collapsing to his knees sobbing. The cries of battle grew silent as Wind wept quietly leaning into Sky who stared up at the sky as if cursing Hylia himself. Legend and Warriors were silent and four cursed loudly falling to his knees. Hyrule was at Time’s side to tend to his wounds, unable to make eye contact as the older hero shook in anger and disbelief.

“P-pup… no… please no…” Time whispered softly, lowering his head as Hyrule gripping his shoulder as a form of comfort. Twilight had been his descendent, his pup. And now he was gone- he couldn't protec-

WAAAAAAAAAAA!

A sudden distressed cry pierced through the silence, coming straight from the pile of clothes where Twilight had been. Eyes snapped to the pile watching as it weakly moved as if something was trapped underneath. Warriors were already skidding into a kneel, being the closest and yanking back the wolf pelt freezing as it revealed a tiny child with gold locks underneath it. One that couldn't have been more than a year or two. The child squirms and kicks, crying softly, as tiny hands rub at his face, stained with tears and snot. Brilliant blue eyes are revealed as the baby hiccups and screeches louder. On his left hand a smaller Triforce was glowing weakly as it faded, its power spent. The child looked exactly like Twilight only… smaller- amd without any scars. And the black mark that matched his wolf for , was now a faded grey barely visible on his forehead. Twilight was now a baby but how?  Warriors gently scooped up the child in his arms semi wrapped in Twilight's green tunic, and looked back at the others with wide eyes.

“T-time… its him… its Twilight but hes…” Warriors stuttered out, unable to find an answer as to why. Slowly all the heroes gathered around Warriors, Time supported by Hyruke, now staring down at the fussing child in Warriors arms. Wind peeked over the bundle to look at Twilight, brow furrowed

“The attack turned him into a baby? But… that makes no sense?” he says confused.

“I dont think the attack turned him into this, i think the triforce did-” Four reasoned pointing at the tiny mark on the baby's hand that now had made its way into Twilight tiny mouth, as he hiccuped trying to self soothe it seemed. 

“Thats… actually think about it - Twilights had this happen before no? When he was -” Warriors says slowly, Time finishing the thought 

“When he first entered the Twilight in his Hyrule. His triforce transformed him to keep him safe…so… it stands to reason that whatever magic he got hit with was deadly enough his Triforce transformed him into this to keep him safe once more” Time says, frowning crossing his arms.

“But can he turn back? Like he does when he becomes Wolfie?” Wild suddenly asks, the group falling quiet. “Guys?”

Each hero looked at each other and then looked at Sky. He knew what they were asking without needing words and closed his eyes, focusing, the Master sword on his back glowing a soft blue as if responding to him.

“Well what did she say?” Legend says inching closer to Warriors looking at Twilight worried

“Mmm… Fi isn't sure the origin of the curse-”

“A CURSE!?”

“....- Yes curse. Possibly one that would turn him into a monster. But she's 95 percent sure that his Triforce of courage shielded him with the gift of transformation to prevent that, The issue is… she has no data on if he can turn back or not without assistance, and if he can’t than he'd need a cure, which she has no answers for currently.” Sky finished frowning looking at Time apologetically he didn't have answers.

“Well … if he's just changed forms he still knows what's going on ya?” Legend says, smiling at Twilight waving at him "You still in their Twi?”

This however startled the small child that seemed to have started to size off. He flinched his eyes shooting open, blue orbs jumping between everyone, his eyes showed no recognition. Instead only fear and distress registered as his lower lip started to quiver and a howl of a cry came from him as he started fussing again. He was scared of them! Warriors out of instinct started to bounce him gently in his arms attempting to soothe him.

“He… he's scared of us?” Wind says, sounding sad, Soy hand falling on his shoulder.

“He didn't just gain the look of a child, I think he's aged backwards. I mean his scars are gone- meaning-... he wouldn't know any of us then?” Four questions, the others seeming to nod in agreement. 

“To think even as a baby he already wielded the Triforce …” Sky says almost mournfully.

Time looked sadly down at his pup. Turned back into a child, no memory of any of them, and clearly scared and confused. He reached out to run a hand through his hair to aid Warriors in soothing him. Twilight squirmed, feeling a hand in his hair, as his eyes turned to fall on Time. Wet blue eyes stared at him as he sniffled and whimpered. Time gave him a sad smile, which turned to one of shock when Twilight squirmed in Warriors arms trying to get to Time little hands outstretched  making grabby motions.

“D-da da! Dada!” Twilight cried out, making all of them freeze. Until a few snickers found their way among the group. Time felt a warm feeling sprout in his chest. Twilight, stuck in this form, called him Dad. His eyes almost started to water at how much he sorted of like the feeling of that. Even if they weren't father and son, just distant descendents.

“Father Time eh? Has a good ring to it~” Legend teased, as Everyone laughed softly, Time taking Twilight gently from Warriors. He held him against his chest, covering him fully in the green tunic, Twilight gripping at Times clothes and snuggling into his chest and neck, immediately starting to suck on his thumb and settling down. Time rubbed his back before looking amongst the group.

“I guess the new mission is to change Twilight back… but I feel it's not going to be easy-” Time sighs, looking down at baby Twilight falling asleep against him.

Just as he says that a portal rips into existence, one the chain was all familiar with. They all look at it with tense looks, before looking back at Time.

“Guess it's time to go but- Twilights a baby now- Sky still gets sick going through them and he's an adult. What would it do to a baby?” Hyrule voices uneasily, Time frowning pulling twilight closer to him. He had a point, what would the portal do to his pup in this form?

As they contemplate the portal pulses again, waking Twilight who blinks and turns to see the dark swirling mass before them all and grips Time’s tunic as his face shrewd up in fear and he starts crying again. Time immediately started swaying, bouncing the little rancher in his arms trying to soothe him gently.

“It’s okay … It’s okay pup-” Time says softly, the other heroes looking at each other with worried looks. Legend steps up pulling off one of his rings to hold out to Time.

“Look old man, we can’t stick around here forever, this should dampen some effects of the magic a little - least i hope so. But I’d rather us not get separated due to indecision. We can haul Twi’s stuff easily. So maybe you and him should … no wait actually scratch that- Wars you good with leading this one in case there’s trouble outside this portal?” Legend says as he looks at Warriors who nods his head curtly.

“Okay so lets do this- Warriors and Hyrule and I can go first, followed by you and Two and Four, and then Wind, Sky and Wild can pick up the rear- and no worries with anyone getting left behind- sound good?” he says and everyone agrees. Legend didn’t like to play the leader role but he did it when necessary. WIth the order decided they packed up and each group went one by one into the portal.

Time had hesitated as Twilight clung to him wailing in distress so much so he subconsciously took a step back only to feel Four’s hand steadying at the square of his back. He looks down as the smithy looks at him with a calm presence, his eyes seemingly purple right now and hooks that hand on his wrist and gently pulls him forward.

“Faster we do it Time, faster it's over- he’ll be okay” he said softly. Time takes a breath and pulls Twilight closer to him and steps into the portal, the rush of magic sending him into darkness.

Chapter Text

Somehow, the entire chain got lucky as the portal doesn’t do that thing where it spits them all into a freefall 100 feet in the air, or straight into a deep body of water- or straight into a monster's den. Instead they all walk out into a grassy field, the sun shining brightly overhead, the smell of hay and horses prominent- this was Time’s Hyrule. And they seemed to be right outside of Lon Lon ranch also!

The old hero smiles softly feeling instantly relieved, however that relief doesn’t last long it would seem. Just as Warriors goes to count off everyone as the portal closes, Time feels Twilight squirming weakly in his arms, a whimpering sob bubbling up, followed by a series of wet hacking coughs. Everyone froze as Time peeled Twilight back in alarm, eyes widening as he finds his pup pale as a sheet with rosy inflamed cheeks, wheezing harshly as a scream wrenches itself from his lips. Hyrule was at their side in an instance, hand pressed to Twilight’s forehead paling at how hot he found it to be.

“Not good- that’s a high fever-” he said and hovered his hands over the tot, a soft glow coming from them as he focused, Time holding Twilight as still as he could. “Magic poisoning the portal was too much even with Legend’s ring of magic resistance-”

Legend curses off to the far right, Time pulling Twilight back to sit up on his shoulder patting his back trying to dislodge whatever gunk was in his lungs that ailed the tiny hero. He looks at Hyrule hoping for an answer or solution to help him.

“Usually for Sky a good amount of bed rest and liquids is enough to get him back on his feet in a day or two- but being as Twilight is… what one to two age wise- he has no immunity to magic anymore I don't think- The mark on his forehead isn't as dark as it would be so it might be safe to say he cant… use whatever magic he uses when turning into Wolfie- but for him-.... He could be in real danger if we can’t get that fever down.” Hyrule concludes face grim, as Sky steps over moving to smooth the tiny hero's wet hair from his face

“It’s like he has a mix of bronchitis and Pneumonia… for babies that a death sentence- at least back on Skyloft given how cold it can get up in the clouds-” he says worriedly.

“What about a potion-” Time suddenly asks, panic barely hiding in his tone. It shocked some of them as the old hero rarely let his emotions get the better of him. Hyrule bites his lip as Warrior steps in shaking his head as if saying it was a bad idea

“Potions heal physical wounds Time, you know this- not ailments like this- besides it’s never recommended to give such a young one potions at this age- it usually ends up making them sicker by default-” he sighs as Time paces with Twilight, patting his back like a worried father might, Twilight screeching as he did.

“Well we seemed to have landed right outside the ranch. Maybe Malon would have so ide-” Four goes to say until a vile sound makes all them go pale.

BLARGH!

Time freezes as the feeling of warm and gushy liquids spew down his back, and a foul smell reaches his nose. Wet retching noises come from Twilight between sobs, as he empties his stomach contents all down the back of Time’s tunic. He closes his eyes and tries not to breathe through his nose, focusing on rubbing the young one’s back encouraging him to get it all up. Warriors winces after sneaking a peek at the aftermath.

“I think-.... That tunic needs to be burned in flames Time-” Legend says unhelpfully, Time narrowing his eyes at the Hero of Warriors.

“Really- anything else I should burn while I’m at it-” he grumbles , patting Twilight's back who all but slumps against him exhausted. Legend thinks about it for a moment but stays silent. The only one who doesn’t seem phased was Wind, surprisingly- he walks up and squeezes little twilight non sicky hand sympathetically.

“Feel better? Aryll always felt better getting it up to Twi-” he says before Twi coos at his eyes sliding closed. “We should get him inside Time… with a lotta blankets. Maybe grandma always did that for us saying to beat the fever you have to sweat it out or something.”

The chain seemed to agree to that, and were all walking towards the ranch house, everyone but wind seeming to keep their distance outside Wind, the sailor seeming impervious to the smell of sickness to a degree. They barely got to the front door before Malon came barreling through the door and onto the porch looking happy to see them all.

“Boys you’re back! And covered in bruises and cuts- what am I going to do with you all!” she says firmly as if scolding them but in a light hearted manner, “Link you’re not letting them-”

Her eyes turn to Time, her beloved only for her smile and playfulness to fall all at once spotting the golden hair baby wheezing in his grasp, “T-that's…. Why do you have a baby with you Link!?”

Her eyes sweep over all the boys before she realizes something else- “Hang on where’s Twilight- Link where is he-”

Time bites back a wince before sheepishly gesturing to the bundle in his arms and Malon’s eyes widen as her hands cover her mouth in shock. “This… this is the pup Malon-”

Malon is down the steps instantly and checking him over, frowning in alarm as she sees his fevered face and well… the mess he made down Time’s back “How-? What happened? Why are you covered-... no wait he got sick didn’t he? I don’t get it but gimme ma Baby he’s burning up!”

Time put up little resistance as Malon gently pulled Twilight from him, causing him to fuss and rub his face coughing, his eyes cracking open, looking back into Malon’s bright blue eyes. Weak little hands make their way to her face as Malon cradles him swaying slightly.

“M-maa..?” he croaked followed by a series of wet coughs and more crying. Malon shushed him kissing his forehead and moving to walk inside calling over her shoulders

“Shhh sweetie… I got you~ Mama’s got you… Come on boys inside you all need a bath, you're all coated in blood!” she says loud enough, gesturing down the hall to the bathroom, “And Link honey, throw that sick stained tunic on the porch near the clothesline. I'll wash it when I have time. Then you can help me put up the crib!”

Time stares at her blinking confused, as he pulls his dirty tunic off, as the others snicker while walking in the house “We have a crib?”

“Yes dear! My father does want grandkids at some point, so he built us one, remember?” she calls from somewhere down the hall- maybe their bedroom.

Cue the laughter from his boys as Time huffs an amused sigh, now bare chested in the living room “AH right how could i forget- he wants what 20?”

This only makes everyone laugh louder, Warriors grinning at him with mischief in his eyes, but Legend beats him to the punch.

“Do you think you have enough in you to make that many old man?” he laughs, dodging a smack to the head; Wild, Wind and Sky dashing off snickering towards the bathroom to avoid “Time’s” wraith per say. Running water is heard in no time.

“Laugh it up all you want Vet- wait until you settle down, then I’ll be asking the same thing back at you-” he smirks, as Malon returns with Tiny Twilight, now in a diaper and a little green shirt, curled up against his wife.

“Okay where were you hiding those?” Time asks in earnest, getting an innocent look from his wife who strolls over to peck him on the lips.

“Well i daresay i get bored and have too much time on my hands when you’re off saving worlds dear~ Enough time to establish my own baby clothing line if i wanted haha~” she teases and laughs at her husband’s shocked looked rolling her eyes “I jest- these are some of my Aunt’s old hand me downs from Jowy remember? They were moving and we said we’d store them for her. I doubt she’ll mind us using them for a bit.”

Time visibly relaxes, before looking down at Twilight who is just sucking away on his fingers. He sighs worriedly. Malon presses a hand to his cheek knowing that look.

“Hey I know that look- no blaming yourself dear-” she says softly to him. Time just down casts his eyes avoiding hers.

“It is- i should have been faster- i should have-” he says bitterly, only for warriors hand to fall on his shoulder disapprovingly

“Old man stop that- it ain’t your fault, none of us knew that Wizzrobe was gonna pull that stunt- and Twilight’s still alive- he’s just… sick as all. But he’s stubborn like you. I doubt this will take him out. Once the fever’s broken he’s in the clear. So stop blaming yourself alright? Captain’s orders-” he says Time laughing dryly

“Who are you to give me orders? I’m older than all of you combined hah-” he says Warriors smirking back at him.

“There’s the grumpy man we all love and know- good to have you back~ Now will you go take a damned bath you reek of vomit!” Legend says holding his nose for emphasis and daring Time to argue back with him. Time all but sighs rolling his eyes and goes to hop in the bath himself with the other three already in there. It was a good idea that he and malon decided to construct more of a hot springs design into the house. It was more than serving them well with all this portal business.

After Time had gotten out of the bath , no longer smelling of baby vomit all over himself, he was going to help Wild with preparing dinner, only for his wife to pull him to the side. He gave her a confused worried look but followed her out of earshot.

“Dear, what's wrong? Is twilight okay? You look… uneasy-” he says gently, pressing a hand to his sleepy pup’s head, finding it still quite warm.

“Yes … ‘she’ is dear-” Malon said firmly, Time suddenly freezing.

“She?” Time says slowly, making sure he heard that right. Malon simply nodded.

“Link… Has Twilight ever mentioned to you or the others that ‘he’s’ a girl?” she says gently cuddling the baby against her. Time still a tad in shock shook his head slowly.

“No… least not that I’m aware of? He- or uh I guess she always acts like one of the boys- I never even realized but… Twilight’s truly a girl?” he says uncertainly. Not the fact that Twilight being a girl would be wrong, not at all! He was more worried now if he- “she” was always a she or if the Wizzrobes magic messed with that also. But it wasn’t like he could ask his pup currently.

“Ya she is-” a sudden voice says, making Time and Malon jump, turning to see Wild leaning against the wall, holding up a bottle filled with warm milk, presumingly for Twilight. His face looked a bit crestfallen.

“Wild- you knew? He- ah sorry she- Twilight’s a girl truly? Why- didn’t she tell us?” Time speaks, concern laced in his tone, as Malon took the bottle Wild held out to her.

“Always has been- honestly shocked ya’ll never realized that Wolfie was female at all- females wolves, least in my Hyrule are always bigger- though… i guess big sis was always bigger than the normal wolf wasn’t she-” he hums watching as Malon got Twilight to latch to the bottle, and the poor girl feverish was just as hungry and started sucking as hard as she could manage to get to the milk inside.

“I… never realized- all this time. But why hide it? We’d never judge her , girl or boy? I mean I’m fairly certain one or more of you boys likes the same gender or… identifies as the opposite?” Time says as Wild looks at the floor smiling.

“Transgender? Ya, pretty sure Four is? And Hyrule is non binary- And I’m gay so-” Wild says softly Time head wrapping around the terms.

“Uh… yes- to all of those-” he fumbles making Wild laugh softly

“Old man, you want me to like crash course you on the gender and sexuality world? Sky would totally help-” Wild offers, as Time just looks flustered.

“I-...” Time trails off, unsure how to respond. He’d support his boys- and now girls- best he could, but he was pretty sure anything SKy or WIld would tell him would fly over his head. Malon suddenly speaks up softly.

“Maybe … she felt like she couldn’t? Twilight I mean? That she had to hide herself?” she says looking at WIld, whose face falls rubbing the back of his neck.

“I’m guessing it's something like that? She’s never really… told me why she keeps up the facade of being  a boy when she feels fully as a girl. But she asked me not to tell any of you, insisting she pose as male? I respected her wishes- and I helped brew potions to help with um… those each month. Something from her Hyrule that suppresses feminine hormones and whatnot. Still just cause it stops the bleeding… can’t fully kill the hormones-" he explains best he can.

“Wait… you brew potion to suppress… her menstrual cycle? Is that even safe?... Suddenly so many things make sense-” Time says with concern before feeling like puzzle pieces fell into place. He never really kept track, but there was always a week where his pup was very emotional, extra hungry and seemed devoid of energy. Yet he never even knew! He felt like a terrible leader suddenly.

“Ya, it’s decently safe from my knowledge- it like… tricks her body into never ovulating or something so she never has the bleeding. Well mostly- sometimes she still spots… But she gets more tired too- she’s scared of letting everyone else know i think, i havent been able to convince her yet and well… I guess it would have come out at some point given what’s happened.” he says thoughtfully, watching as Twilight finished off the bottle, curling into Malon as she went to burp her. “Either way- baby or not perhaps we can still keep the secret- I… feel bad keeping it from you all- but I think we should still respect what she wants until we can’t keep it a secret any longer. I can help out with changing and bathing between you two so that way she can tell us when she is an adult again and ready?”

Time and Malon look at each other, having what looked like a silent conversation before looking at the sleeping Twilight, gurgling sleepily. Time sighed, running a hand through his hair.

“For now- We’ll keep the secret for now until we truly can’t.” he says slowly as Malon nods also.

All of them agreed, Time let Malon and Wild get back to the others while he went to put up the crib from his Father-in-Law up in his and Malon’s room. He felt over protective as Malon probably was, so it was best that they kept the pup close by at all times no? He flushed as he had it finished and set up in the corner of the room, bedding it down with linens and such.

“We talked about kids before but… now it's like it's happened. My pup my so-... no sweet girl… little girl… I admit … having a daughter… why do i feel so protective and endeared-” Time mumbles to himself, shaking his head as he does.

But still, with the task done he moves back to the living room, watching his boys (and girls) all settling in. Wind, Warriors and Sky seemed to have started up some sort of card game, while Legend and Four placed bets on who’d win. Hyrule had simply decided to lounge on the couch, watching from afar shaking his head at the chaos. All this while Wild and Malon talked in the kitchen, Twilight nursing her second bottle of the night in a fevered haze. It seemed WIld was making something, which wasn’t odd the feral hero would always steal the kitchen when they were in Time’s Era. Time simply learned to leave him be.

He walked into the kitchen planting a kiss on his wife’s crown. He looked down at tiny Twilight, not hesitating to push her hair from her face, the baby gurgling as Malon pulled away the bottle from her grasp. Time couldn’t help but chuckle at the pout on that little face, as she hiccuped and whined, tiny hands balling and rubbing her face before she spotted Time, and all but started crying and reaching for him.

“Hic… Daaa dadada… hic daaaa!” she whines, Time freezing at first as Malon just rolled her eyes shifting to send the squirming child into his arms (Properly supported of course!) Snickers were sent around by some of the chain, and others looked on with gentle eyes and Twilight snuggled straight into the older hero’s chest, sighing almost content.

“Well look at you Papa~ a natural~” Malon teased, kissing his cheek, making him flush as his wife stepped in to help Wild make dinner.

“I ah- well that's-” he stumbled over his words, before giving up as Wild just snickers, and Malon gestures for him to go take a seat in the rocking chair in the living room she’d usually do her knitting in.

He had little reason not to, so he carefully and tentatively walked with Twilight in his arms, lowering himself into the well worn chair, letting his pup sleep against him. He was a tad tense as if afraid to mess up simply holding his descendant in his arms. He tensed as Twilight whimpered, and decided to use the chair for its intended purpose- rocking. The swaying motion settled the older hero as much as the younger one, and Time relaxed slowly. He watched lazily as the others swore and groaned at the losses of the card game they played. A small smirk crossed his lips. 

“Oh come on! You’re cheating! Cheating!” Wind, pouting as Warriors smirked, pulling the small pot of scattered rupees in his direction. Fours grumbled handing Legend a red rupee himself. Time raised an eyebrow, when had they started gambling?

“Ain’t no cheating sailor- just pure talent~ don’t be a sour chu chu now-” he laughed softly, as Sky tried to pat Wind’s back offering a sympathetic smile to him.

“No no! You absolutely cheated you rat taught sc-” WInd started getting heated and Twilight whined against Time to the raising tones.

“Sailor-” he gets out in a firm tone, his eyes closing as he rubs his pup’s back. Everyone seemed to freeze hearing Time speak as if waiting to get scolded. But all he followed up with was “Indoor voices please- and watch your language-”

Wind seems to deflate but nods and flops back on the ground “F-fineeee- ya old geezer-”

Time only smirks to this, not moving to open his eyes continuing to soothe Twilight, whose tiny hand had snaked up to start grabbing various places on his face. Hair, ear, mouth, and settled on his nose.Time blinked an eye open as she patted his face cooing in a sleepy drawl drooling all over him as she coughed in her sleep. Warriors chuckles at this as Time seems to accept his fate, closing his eyes again.

“Handsy little thing he is-” Warriors says shaking his head, Time tensing slightly, before forcing himself to relax. Right only he,WIld and Malon knew his pup was a girl. He couldn’t let his protectiveness reveal that nature willy nilly.

“Pup’s sick, only clinging to comfort Captain-” Time says carefully, continuing to rock both of them.

“And you’re enjoying eeeevery bit of it aren’t you old man~” Legend teases from somewhere… off to the right Time figured.

“Don’t know what you’re talking about-” is all he hums, the group snickering at the old man’s denial.

“Oh you should see him when his nieces and nephews are over~ he’s so sweet on them~ have i told you the time he was giving them an in depth lesson on how to properly care for the cuccos~” Malon speaks up from across the way. Time isn’t able to hide the flush on his cheek, opening his good eye to glare at his wife in embarrassment as the others started laughing.

“D-dear-...” he huffs, but he couldn’t stop Malon from telling the story of how he wanted to make sure his nieces and nephews didn’t create a murder flock of cuccos by accidentally stepping on them, like a younger him had once done ages ago. He gave up on trying to defend his honor, as Malon revealed more of his “fatherly” past deeds.

Instead he let the sway of the rocking chair take him, and without thinking he started humming a familiar tune from a wayward adventure of his. A soft yet healing melody that could soothe even the most aggrieved wayward souls. WIth Twilight curling more into him as he hummed the lullaby, Time himself fell asleep to his own actions. Soon both elder and tot were softly snoozing together as Malon and Wild started to finish up the dinner prep. It was only when plates were being set out that Wind had called out

“Old man fell asleep- Sky you’re rubbing off on him!” The now second youngest giggled moving to get a better look as if to truly see if Time was asleep.

Everyone looked up and Malon shook her head softly, chuckling, “Wind dear don’t poke him, let him rest. Come help us set the table instead-”

“Kay!” WInd calls and scurries off to help Malon as the other heroes stretch and look over at Time and Twilight. Legend smirks and calls to wild

“Wild where's your slate? We so need blac- i meeean a snapshot of this wholesome moment!” Legend says before WIld looks up pursing his lips pointing a dripping spoon in his direction.

“No- I am not staying on his shitlist for helping you- I’m still recovering from the last time you thought it was a good idea to paint his face and snap a pic. go wash up-” WIld says dramatically, while making a shooing motion. Legend just pouts watching as Sky moved to set a blanket around Time and lil Twilight.

“Now now- no fighting while dinner’s coming out hot boys- All you wash up and come sit down. Wild dear, set a plate aside for Time would you?” Malon says, getting control over the 7 heroes, as she helped WIld make up the plates. Groans and gripes turned into more pleasant table banter as everyone filled up on food.

“So…when this is all over, are you and Time planning on having any lil ones yourself?” Hyrule asks, nodding off in Twilight and Time’s direction.

“Ohhh ya ya! You’re gonna have some right? I mean Twilight’s your like future descendent so-” WInd says grinning from his place at the table

Malon laughs softly, as all of them start betting if it'll be a girl or boy they’d have first.

“I suppose sometime in the future, I know he won’t say it but I’m sure he wants a house full of them. Though I feel he worries whether he’ll be up to snuff in raising them. WIth all the portal business, being away so long makes him guilty. You know how my husband is-” she hums as Sky speaks up smiling at her

“I think he’ll be a natural honestly- if how he’s been acting with Twi is any indicator.” he chuckles gesturing to the sleeping pair. Four snorts at that

“He’s the worst mother cucco on the road, you should see him Malon~ He frets over everything, and drags everyone out of danger if he gets the chance. Always claims it's just reflex, but we all call bull on that haha~ He’ll do fine” Four says grinning at Malon, who laughs at his admission.

“Pretty sure Twilight gets the worst of it and that when he’s in his adult form!” Warrior smirks, sipping his drink.

“Maybe that’s why Twi acts the same with me? He mimics the old man! Never mind, Time’s banned from having kids!” WIld suddenly states making everyone crack up at WIld’s sudden objection to let Time create life. They all laughed harder when Time started snoring in his sleep dead to the world.

All of this of course went over Time’s head, as he continued to protectively cuddle his precious pup in his arms. Even asleep he’d always protect her- ALWAYS -

Chapter Text

The next several days, everyone seemed to get used to the fact of living a baby among the groups. Twilight had shaken off the portal sickness after a few days, much to everyone's relief. The loud crying at night from the fussy infant had settled into silence once the fever and ickiness had all but left the young heroine’s body. Though through some silliness they also learned baby Twilight tried to howl at the moon if she was still up. It had made the entire chain laugh the first time charging into Time and Malon’s room weapons out only to find Twilight, standing in the crib bouncing and howling to the sky outside. 

However, another thing they learned is that despite Twilight's age change, she still rose with the sun, even their Rancher no matter what age.

The sun had barely started to rise above the horizon, the small flecks of light slipping into Time and Malon’s room. Time was cuddled in close , arms wrapped around Malon, his face nestled into his wife's hair. Then he heard it. The squeaking of the crib and babbling.

“Bababa… da dadadada awoooooooo!” giggled Twilight , little hands gripping the cribs railing, bouncing herself in place, laughing louder as the Cuccuos crowed outside. “Awooo! Awoooooo!”

Time breathed in groaning, hugging Malon tighter, hearing his wife chuckle tapping his forehead.

“Your daughter’s awake~” she teased, feeling her husband bury himself further into her hair.

“Mmm… she's your daughter before sunrise…” Time yawned sleepily, as Malon laughed and shoved his shoulder playfully making him chuckle in turn.

“Dadadada!” Twilight babbled, which only made his wife laugh harder.

Time groaned and untangled himself from his wife throwing his arms up as he sat up slowly “Aright… A’right I'm up pup… I'm up- you before the sunrise gremlin…”

“Awoooo!” Twilight giggled, as Time got up cracking his back yawning, moving towards the crib, Twilight making grabby hands at him. “Dadada!”

Time smirks and pulls his pup up into his arms after throwing on pants and a shirt, as she starts patting his face affectionately, as if checking to make sure he was all there.

“Awoo yourself lil miss~ why can't you sleep in like a normal hero?” he jest to the tiny girl, who looked up at him before sticking her fingers in her mouth and grinning at him, trying to offer him a drooly digit.

“Gooo?” she offered, as Time settled her on his hip.

“No thanks, you keep that ... how about we go visit the cuckoos and grab some eggs for breakfast eh pup?” he suggests, unaware that his wife had rolled over watching the two interact fondly, a gentle smile on her face.

“You’re so good with her~ you're gonna make a great papa Link~ don't let her wander off while you're in the coop you here? She's got some speedy legs on her I've found.” She speaks up, as Time comes over to peck her lips, and let Twilight pat her face too (of course after he wiped her fingers of drool.)

“Ill keep a close eye on her dear, you get some extra sleep before the rest of the hoard is up eh?” he teases earning a smack from a pillow, chuckling as he "flees" with his pup who was giggling at the event thinking it all a game. He shushed his cub as they snuck past the other boys’ room, the sounds of snores and sleepy noises heard. He pressed a finger to his lips, eyes shining as Twilight copied him.

“Shuuu..?” she babbled softly as they got to the stairs.

“Shhh yes~” he agreed, making his way to the door. Malon had made Twilight some lil booties and pants set by the door when she would go out. Time wastes no time stuffing the squirming giggly pup into them, and pulling open the door, the crisp air greeting the two as Time strolled out to get them to the barn. As they reach the coop, Twilight screeches upon seeing all the white cuccos pecking the ground about, which made Time stifle a laugh as the tot was squirming trying to get down to no doubt chase the birds around.

“BABABA, Awooooo!” Twilight screeches , making the flock scatter.

“Pffft… pup those are wolves they're cuc…” he started to say before pausing as Twilight looks

Up at him. 

*No- if i say cucco no doubt she'll try to sound it out and it'll sound foul- different word-* he thinks to himself, shuddering at the thought of Malon going off on him for accidently teaching him a possibly foul word close to Cucco

“Bird- they're birds' pup” he concludes, lil Twilight going from confused to a huge grin as she babbles excitedly.

“Bir?” she giggles, pointing at the cuccos and Time chuckles and nods.

“ Yes- bird~” he says and all hell breaks loose as he sets Twilight down

“BIR BIR BIRBIR!” she yells and dashes at the cuccos as best a wobbly tot could, the birds scattering as Time just shakes his head and moves to start collecting the eggs. The sounds of Twilight’s laughter made his heart light. The sound of a child's laugh could make anyone having a bad day feel just as happy. 

To be fair, he'd never quite heard Twilight laugh like this. Just pure joy and fascination, and he felt privileged to hear it now. It made him wonder what made her hide her true gender, since Wild didn't seem to know that. Could someone have caused it? The thought makes him frown. Someone who'd hurt his precious pup… his little girl. Indignant squawking pulls him from his thoughts as he turns to see Twilight having wrangled a cucco and trying to pet it, albeit a bit harshly. He had to stifle a laugh, putting the other thoughts he was thinking aside as he moved over to the mischievous pup plucking the screaming hen from her.

“Gentle honey- you'll hurt her otherwise.” he hums, sitting down cross legged, Twilight clambering into his lap immediately cooing

“Ge…nta?” she says in a confused tone reaching for the feathery creature. Time simply smiles taking her tiny hand and guiding it to light prodding touches watching as her eyes light up

“See? Gentle. We have to be gentle with the birds, and the other animals on the farm okay? They don't like it when you're rough. Don't want to give them Ouchies. Okay?” he explains hoping it made sense to the tiny tot.

“O-tay! Genta! Birbir Genta!” Twilight babbles, completely starstruck as she pets the now calmed cucco.

Time sits with twilight for a bit like that, smiling gently as he brushes strands of hair from her face, enjoying this moment. She was so cute like this his heart melted. If only they didn't have to worry about her secret, he'd wished he could take her into town and buy her some cute little dresses for her to show off. Maybe he could put her hair into little pigtails.

“You look like a proud father over there, old man” a sudden voice said, making Time jump, and startle Twilight and the cucco. He looked over to see Warriors leaning against the frame of the coop smirking at him. Time’s face heated up, searching for the words to say, as Twilight arrowed in on Warriors and screeched and climbed out of Time’s lap and hobbled over hands outstretched.

“Bababa!” she giggles, stumbling into him, gripping his pants and hugging him. She squeals as Wars picks her up and she points excitedly to the cucco that had abandoned Time excitedly babbling to him.  “Birbir! Bir Bir Bir!” 

Wars laughs and tickles Twilight's belly, making her howl with laughter  “Bird eh? Old man teaching you all about the cuccos is he? What a smart kid you are~”

Time stands up slowly, his joints popping and cracking loudly as he stretches out his back, walking over to Warriors placing a hamd in his shoulder smirking himself.

“Amd you call me smitten Captain- sure you're not as well?” he teases, bent on getting back in some way. He snickers seeing the Captain's face heat up.

“O-oh hush… not my fault the rancher’s got more charm this…” he huffs, pouting. It didn't last long as Twilight patted his face trying to get his attention.

“Bir…?” she asks innocently, Time bursting out into laughter that his pup had called the Captain a bird.

“More like a strutting peacock but close enough!” he laughs, dodging the smack Warriors aimed at him to go back to collecting the rest of the eggs for breakfast.

“Not bird Twi- Warriors. Can you say that? War-ri-ors- come on kid~ “Warriors encourages, Twilight seeming to be thinking and prices before grinning at him, her few teeth showing. 

 “W… wa…wa..aaa… Wars!” she proudly proclaimed, and time swore he saw the captain near swoon. 

“Ya there ya go kid! I'm Warriors!” Wars grins as Twilight fed off his happy energy and clapped loudly shouting his name loudly. 

“Wars wars wars!” she babbles happily, much to the Captain's melting heart dying inside him from the cuteness. If only he and the others knew Twilight was their sister rather than brother. He sets Twilight back down, letting her run loose to terrorize the cuccos more. 

“Biiiiiir! “was all they could hear among the squawking birds, running from the energetic tot. Time only sighs, shaking his head. 

“Wow he's such a whirlwind…anyway Malon said you were getting eggs for breakfast. Need help getting anything else from the barn old man?” Wars asks, as Time hides a smirk.

*If only you knew he was actually a she. I bet she'd captured your heart more captain-* he thinks to himself, before holding the basket out to him to take.

“I just need to milk the cows actually. How about you take Twi and the eggs inside while I do that. I think the cuccos are at their limit he-... *ahem* him” he says narrowly avoiding saying Twilight's actual fender aloud.

Wars raises an eyebrow at Time, but doesn't question that odd flub of words at the end, before taking the eggs then moving to scoop Twi up from his arms much to the Cuccos relief. Twilight sneezed as the stray feathers tickled her nose. 

“Alright ya gremlin, enough terrozing cuccos. Lets go get these back to Malon” he laughs, twilight unable to escape him.

“Go ma?” she says innocently to Wars, who confirms and the next moment Twilight is chanting Ma over and over, that Time heard it well after the two had left. He shook his head chuckling, moving to the large barn to milk the cows. 

========================================================================

The table was crowded with hungry heroes once more, the morning chatter making the home full of life. Malon had outdone herself as usual, stacking the table high with fluffy eggs, flapjacks, sliced fruit and fresh LonLon Milk from the source. Time was vaguely listening as the boys retold tales from their own Hyrules during this moment of respite, feeding Twilight some oatmeal at the end of the table.

“Sky you can't be that vague! What happened next? You can't just say , and then it was dead. Detaaaails” Wind whined from across the table, Sky eyeing him with sleepy eyes and humming as if thinking.

“But that's what happened? I saw it, fought it, then it was dead?” he says aloof like, making Wind groan.

“But you said it was a giant scorpion! What does that even look like whatever it is? How did you fight it? Detaaaaails!” he huffs, Time looking over as the rest of the table nods their heads.

“He got a point Sky- you ah… aren't the greatest with the details of how it went. Just saying” Hyrule laughs softly, taking another bite of his breakfast.

“I ah- I mean it had huge pinchers so it tried to grab me? Actually I guess it did-  really hurt that I had bruises for weeks- “ Sky says, shuddering at the memory, Wind standing up looming, eyeing Sky for more details, but groans flopping back down when he wasn't going to get more than that.

“Youre bad at telling stories! Oh! Have I told you about the time I defeated Ganons huge bird? The thing was as tall as this house!” Wind grins looking around the table.

“You have a sailor- multiple times i might add” Legend scoffs, laughing when Wind pouts. He looks about to rogue when Malon clears his throat

“Boys, don't fight- and honey?” she hums looking at her husband, who startles looking confused glancing up from Wind and Legend. Malon smiles and points at Twilight who was pouting, mouth open trying to get her mouth around the just out of reach spoon in Times hand "You're withholding Twi’s breakfast~”

“Oh i- s-sorry pup” Time stutters immediately, offering a spoonful of lumpy goodness into Twilight's mouth, who gurgles happily, slapping the table in turn.

“Even as a baby, he's got an endless appetite” Four jokes, the rest of the chain agreeing. they laugh watching Twi demand more food despite already having a mouthful in them.

“Slow down pup, it's not going anywhere… “ Time sighs, but smiles nonetheless.

“Hah! You should have seen him chasing the cuccos around this morning!” Warriors laughs, the others looking at him before seeing a smug grin on his face.

“Whats with that cocky look-” Legend grumbles as Time scolds him immediately

“Language!” he hisses, but Legend only rolls his eyes. Warriors only grins more

“He said my name this morning isn't that right kid? I beat you all to the name game!” Wars boasts proudly, as Twilight turns to his voice squealing, oatmeal going everywhere from her mouth.

“Bababa… Wars wars!” she says delighted, the rest of the chain gaping, the table immediately diffusing into chaos.

“What! No way! Unfaaair you cheated!” Wind whines, and Sky and Four look sullen.

“Aw man, thought he'd say my name first… “ Sly laments, Four patting his arm and sighing also.

Wild was grumbling throwing a red rupee at Legend who smirked, and Hyrule looked as confused as Time. Had they been betting on whose name Twilight would say first? He was utterly dumbfounded,

“You boys… were betting to see whose name the group would say first..?” he asks, confused.

 “YES!” they all said in loud unison, making Time jump.

“Awoooo!” Twilight yelled as well, getting in on the loud ruckus, before Time silenced her with another glop of oatmeal down the gullet. 

“Well we just gotta get him to say everyone else's names! Me first!” Wind says eagerly and all but gets up and runs over, poking Twilight's belly, making her giggle and dribble oatmeal everywhere. He doesn't hesitate to grab a cloth and wipe her face up. He then points at his face grinning.

“Twi can you say Wind? W-I-N-D. Wind!” he says enthusiastically, waiting as Twilight stares at him with big eyes.

“Wi… win?”she babbles as if unsure but Wind grins regardless.

“Ya that’s it! Well close enough! Good job Twi!” he says tickling her as she howls in laughter babbling her new learned name over and over. But the young Wind didn't stop there. He started drawing attention to the others, pointing at them and saying their names.

“Okay okay~ so that's Four and Hyrule is next to him.” he says eagerly, as both shake their heads smiling, Twilight looking between them, then at Wind and pointing at the other heroes.

“Fo…? Rule?” she asks innocently, Four and Hyrule seeming to melt, and Time just smiling as Wind just vibrated excitedly.

“Right! There you go! And you got Wars name, so then there's Wild and Legend! Can you say their names?” he says quickly, Wild just waving at Twi who giggled back and Legend rolled his eyes at the antics.

“Wiwi!” Twilight proclaimed happily, and Wild pretended to die on the spot, his hand over his heart.

“The cuteness… I'm dead~ Avenge me~” he jokes making everyone snicker before they all stopped dead as Twilight than screeched-

“Leg! Leg leg leg!” she laughs, and Legend scowls as his face turns bright red. Everyone howls with laughter.

“S-shut up! You little gremlin! Why just Leg? Legend isn't that hard to say!” he huffs, but Twilight just babbled at him and he lost the staring contest with the small tot.

“Least he said ‘Leg’ over ‘End’” Wars teases the Veteran, who tries to throw an orange at him in defense. 

“No foodfights boys” Malon said firmly, and Legend all but drops the orange back on table, Wars sticking his tongue out at him. 

“Those two fight so much it's nothing new~ okay okay but now it's Sky’s turn! He's over there~” Wind says, moving on Sly giving the tiny tot a tiny wave and gentle smile. Twilight gets an odd look on her face, before she sees the feathers on Sky’s outfit and nearly screeches in delight.

“BIR! BIRBIR!” she says delighted, smacking the table all pleased with herself. Time had to stifle a laugh as Sly looks bewildered and Wars starts laughing his ass off, and everyone else? Just confused.

“W-what? Bir? That doesn't have a S in it sweetie… actually doesn't sound like my name at all? Sky says.

“BIR!” she huffs, as if convinced. Wars could barely breathe.

“O-oh sweet Din! Pfffft hahaha! Well done birdbrain you're a cucco now!” he cackles, Sky still looking confused.

“A… cucco? The ones in the barn?” he says slowly, that Time stepped in to explain, handing Twilight a small piece of toast to keep her busy.

“Ah yes, the pup learned that cuccos were birds this morning so Bir is for Cucco. And you have feathers on your outfit Sky so…” he hums, the lightbulb clicking in the Chosen’s head.

“Ohhh.. well i mean i guess if he wants to call me that i suppose-” the sweet hero trying to resign to the new nickname, but Wind wasn't having it,

“No no! Twi! Sky’s not a bird- i mean he rides one but he's not one. So you can't call him a bird. Ya gotta call him sky!” he insists, Twilight shrinking back a bit.

“B-bir…?” she whimpers, pointing to Sky, who looks ready to suddenly jump up to stop Wind from upsetting the little hero, but isn't quick enough,

“Say sky Twi ya can do it!” Wind says, Twilight’s bottom lip quivering a bit, and Sky couldn't take it, running up and scooping the tiny tot up and hugging her.

“Nonono- don't make him cry, he can call me a bird if he wants to, I really don't mind.” he speaks quickly, his own mother cucco coming out.

“But-”  Wind tries to argue, but Sky gives a stern look.

“NO- he’ll say Sky if he wants to but I'll be a bird until he's ready.” he says firmly, everyone at the table just- so confused at what they just witnessed but seem to accept it. Legend is the first to speak, hands up to his mouth before gesturing to Sky.

“Sky seriously what the fuck- I know we call you birdbrain but you're not a fuckin- “he says sarcastically only to turn pale upon Times growling.

“Vet- LANGUAGE -” he says in a dark tone, eyeing the Veteran daring him to say more in front of Twilight.

“I just- ughhh… it's not like he's gonna-” he starts to say, but it was too late. A pin drop could be heard after what Twilight suddenly screamed next,

“FUC!” she squeals, excited by a new word she could pronounce, Sky’s face draining of color as he tries to redirect,

“O-oh goddesses- no sweetie- don't say that word- it's not-” He tries to reason, but it fell on deaf ears.

“FUCFUCFUCFUCFICFUCFUC!” She all be rockets , twisting his  Sky's grip, cackling at herself. Sky all but pressed his hand over her mouth to stop her repeating the word , luckily able to distract her as she decided Sky’s fingers were tasty and started gumming them.

Everyone else was very quiet, the feeling of dread emitting from the head of the Table. From Time- Malon sighs shaking her head as the others grimace looking at Legend.

“Nice knowing you Vet-” Wars says solemnly, wincing as a chair screeches against the floor.

“ VETERAN -” Time all but growls, locking eyes on Legend who suddenly looks fearfully.

“Run?” Wild mouths at Legend, who all but jumps up and makes for the door.

“RUN!” he yelps as Time, as swift as any had seen him so early, takes off after the hero.

“GET BACK HERE AND FACE JUDGEMENT!” Time roars, the sounds of yelling , screaming, something possibly exploding, and the sounds of animals scrambling out of the waterpath were heard beyond the door.

Malon rests her elbows on the table, head in her hands “Goddesses grant me strength…its too early for this…”

Twilight on the other hand, oblivious to all that had just occurred, simply looked up at Sky, patting his cheek and innocently saying “Bir?”

Sky melts, and sighs, wincing as Legends scream of mercy were heard from the beyond, and taps his forehead to Twilights, “Bir indeed…”

========================================================================

Time hadn’t killed Legend luckily. No he’d thrown the poor veteran into the lake near the house after scolding him something fierce for teaching Twilight such profanity at “his” age. Still had to keep Twilight’s secret despite Time nearly slipping up there as well. At that point Malon had decreed it a good time to perhaps start on chores to keep everyone from going at each other's throats. So that’s how Twilight ended up outside in a corralled wooden playpen, while Time and the others got to work on the farm.

She coo’d as she clumsily chases butterflies around the corralled area, while Time , Warriors and Wind moved various things around the farm. More so the heavy lifting. Twilight would usually have been the biggest help there, however she wasn’t exactly anything but fun sized now. Wild was helping with the herding, and Hyrule the other farm animals, and Sky was on babysitting duty while Malon cleaned the inside of the house and did laundry. Sky played his harp in soft melodies , smiling as he watched Twilight be fascinated by everything. He couldn’t help but chuckle as Twilight tried to literally eat the grass.

He plucked the young hero up into his lap, booping her noise as she squealed and tried to pat Sky’s face.

“Bir bir!” she giggled, and then tried to eat his nose. Sky snickered and kept Twilight mouth from his face.

“You just like to stick everything in your mouth don’t you Twi?” he laughs, bouncing her in his lap making her giggle.

“Awooooo!” was her response, and her giggling ceased as another call answered her own.

NEIIIIIGH~

Twilight froze as a loud whinny came from the fields, a thundering of hooves, slowing to a soft trot and a snorting animal appearing before the two. Sky raised his hand to pet the creature.

“Lo’ Epona~ come to see Twi? Promise you it's still him.” Sky hummed, the beautiful red mare huffing and moving forward to snuffle Twilight hair.

Twilight whimpered as first, pushing into Sky as she was nuzzled by the horse. Sky only mused soft words and encouragement before Twilight seemed to relax and turned in SKy’s grip to face the big animal. Her eyes widened in fascination to see such a big creature! She was red and white and black with warm brown eyes? And she seemed very interested in him, nibbling his hair and snorting with a soft whinny. He instantly called her a bird.

“Bir bir!” she cooed, reaching grabby hands towards the mare, who all but leaned her neck forward to let Twi pat her muzzle, tail flicking as she did. Sky held back a laugh to Twi thinking everyone was a bird, including Sky himself.

“No sweetie, Epona isn’t a bird. She’s a horse. A beautiful one at that. You have Epona back in your time too, this one is Time’s. Can you say horse?” he says gently, Twilight seeming to think hard.

“O-orsie!” is what he managed, and Sky ruffled her hair.

“Atta boy~ That’s right, horsie~ Epona's a horsie” Sky agreed, and Twilight grinned and all but hugged Epona's whole face.

“Orsie! Pona! Up up!” she giggles, laughing harder as Epona craned her neck back lifting the little hero up, Sky’s hand hovering underneath to catch her if she fell. But Twilight had a strong grip even at this age and she kicked her legs midday laughing loudly and kissing Epona’s head. Epona sets her down and playfully trots around the corral, Twilight chasing her happily.

“Mine mine! Pona mine!” she laughs, her loud shouts attracting over Time and Wild. Both seemed to smile at the display of the tiny tot chasing the retired mare around his little pen. Time looks at SKy eyebrow raised and Sky just shrugs.

“Okay so he’ll calm you a bird but call everyone else by their proper terms or names. That’s kind of funny Sky.” Wild snorts, and Sky all but rolls his eyes at the comment.

“It’s endearing honestly, it's not like I don’t have a huge bird back home sooo” he laughs softly, Wild all but plucking Twilight from the pen, throwing her in the air. She all but squeals as she lands back in his arms, yelling in a jumbled up set of sounds for it to happen again, to which Wild does at least 3 more times.

“Wild easy- don’t need the pup throwing up breakfast-” Time hums in warning, but there was no bite to the comment. Wild just nods and settles Twilight on his hip.

“Well what about I take Twi and play in the lake nearby on the farm? Give Sky a break? Though maybe we all could enjoy the cold water before lunch.

Time gave it some thought before nodding, smiling a tad.

“That sounds perfect Wild- I’ll let Malon know. Sky you want to let the others in on the break idea?” he hums, Sky only nodding, getting up to dust his pants off and pat Epona’s side before going to talk with the others. Time walks away and Wild all but leans up against the red mare smirking as he strokes her neck. She whinnies softly nuzzling both heroes.

“Whatcha say Twi? Wanna learn how to swim~? I was taught by zoras it's gonna be awesome~” he grins as Twilight giggles and shouts "Awooo ".

No sooner had Wild mentioned the idea, was everyone now gathered around the lake side that could pass for a pool if they cared to think of it like that.  Everyone was stripped down to their boxers and Malon had put Twilight in water proof cloth as a diaper, so she wasn’t weighed down by water. Malon and Time chose to lounge on the beach area to soak up some sun, catching up with one another, as Wind chased the Captain around, knocking him into the water, causing a water battle to ensue. Legend… didn’t want to be anywhere near the water after Time had thrown him in it earlier, so he opted to stay on the beach side and build sandcastles with Four. It turned into a contest to see who could build the best looking one with Hyrule as the judge. And Sky sat near the shallows feet in the water smiling as he watched Wild attempt to teach Twilight how to swim. I mean he was standing up to his waist in the water , dunking Twilight up and down and letting him splash around aimlessly.

“Come on, blow some bubbles like this Twi!” Wind laughed, swimming up to the trio the captain followed. The younger hero presses his face to the water and blows hard making bubbles everywhere. This intrigued Twilight who wanted to try it. Of course he pushed his entire face into the water and came up sputtering and coughing. This got Time's attention as he sat up, his voice coming across the way

“Don’t rough house over there boys- don’t drown he-h-him…” he says stuttering to conceal saying her instead of him. Luckily no one seemed to catch this, and WIld called back.

“I know CPR!” he jokes, and that didn’t ease Time who tried to get up, but Malon yanked him back down.

“Don’t say things like that!” Time nearly yelled in exasperation, the Captain laughing before splashing Wind. Another fight of water occurred and a splash all but hit Twilight making the tot gasp and sputter. The two froze instantly worried they might have caused a possible screaming fit to happen. The tot floundered, and Sky frowned, shifting as if to come over, but a squeal pierced the air and suddenly Twi was hitting the water with tiny fists, and feet trying to splash everyone around her. Wild roared in laughter holding the tot over his head.

“Behold! Tiny Baby destroyer! Fear us!” He laughed manically and began to chase Wind and Warriors through the water, aiming Twilight at them who just kept kicking and splashing water giggling just as evilly as Wild. The duo yelled in mock surprise hiding laughs and made a run for it as best as one could in the water, trying to avoid the tiny tot’s attacks. Sky just shakes his head, and Four was holding up Wild’s slate from the shore trying to get pictures. And Time just collapsed on his back, the over protective father exhausted taking him, as Malon laughed softly patting his arm in reassurance.

“Ah noooo! I’ve been defeated!” Wind howled , and feigned death by floating on his back in the water and dramatically reached for Warriors, “A-avene me brother! Bleh…”

The Captain couldn’t help but play along, attempting to splash Wild and snatch Twilight from him. 

“Fera not! This ‘Baby Destroyer’ will aid him no longer!” he snickered and managed to “tackle” Wild and take Twilight from him, and started chasing Wild instead.

“Get him Twilight!" he laughed as Twilight just rocketed her hands and feet all over the water laughing.

“Wars wars wars!” she laughed, and Wild dodged and weaved, but wasn’t ‘fast’ enough as Warriors leapt at the Wild hero and bonked him on the head with Twilight’s watery butt literally. WIld death was quite dramatic as he stumbled to the shore, gasping and whining and collapsed on the sand, facedown ‘dying’

“We win!” Warrior roared holding Twilight above his head in victory.

“Win win!” Twilight squeals in agreement. Then she kicked Warriors in the head.

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They played by the lake until the sun started to set. Time had been considering a cookout by the lakeside, but when Twilight fell face first into some mud chasing a frog on the shore, coating himself in sand in the process, the eldest hero decided to call it for the night. Twilight was in need of a bath. The heroes pack up for the evening, heading back to the house, while Time carries Twilight off to the bath.

Tie very quickly learned Twilight LOVED bubbles. Wild had snuck in while Time was stripping Twilight of the wet diaper and shirt, not quick enough to notice Wild pouring half a bottle into the tub. He had chased him out, but it was too late, the bath was overflowing with bubbles and Twilight wanted to pop and eat all of them. SO now Time was trying to clean down a giggly crazed girl trying to eat the bubbles and hide in them. He actually lost her once in them. It almost made him panic before the tiny girl popped up trying to splash him.

“Dada!” she laughed, and Time couldn’t help but laugh back.

“What am I going to do with you pup..” he hummed lovingly. While bathtime took a bit, Time managed to rinse down the bubble so Twilight could just play in the bath for a bit after scrubbing her off mud and washing her hair. He heard Malon call out that dinner was almost done, so Time had to put an end to Twilight’s watery fun, scooping her from the tub and wrapping her in a big fluffy towel.

“Dadadadada awoo!” she babbled as the two passed through the hallway, the other heroes laughing in the living room watching Time trying to keep the tot in his arms, who was trying to escape the towel.

Once back in the master bedroom, Time plopped Twilight on the bed, fluffing her hair up as he dried her completely. Just because he could he blew raspberries against her tummy making her laugh louder. Was he adoring Twilight like this? Yes. Did he want it to end? No. Would he ever openly admit that? NEVER.

He lets her roll around on the bed as he moves to look for the diapers. Where had Malon put them again?

“Malon?” he calls as he moves to start searching the drawers.

“Yes dear?” she called back, Time not noticing how Twilight was on her belly and inching to scoot of the bed quietly.

“Where are the diapers again? You wash them earlier, right?” he says back. Twilight had managed to get to the ground.

“ Second drawer on the right dear!” She calls back with a bit of a laugh. Twilight was now waddling nakedly toward the door.

“No, it's- oh wait neverminded found it!” he yells back, hearing the laughs of the other heroes, and swearing he heard Warriors call him ‘Father Time’ again. He turned around , cloth diaper in hand and froze. Twilight had escaped.

“P-pup!? Where’d you go!” he yelped suddenly, entering protective panic mode searching around the room, before hearing tine laughs down the hall. His heart dropped.

Oh no

He scrambled up to race to grab Twilight before she got to the others. But he wasn’t fast enough. He never was.

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The rest of the heroes laughed in the living room, after hearing Time and Malon going on about where the diapers were.

'Nope, old man is definitely Father Time for the rest of Time now!’ Warrior laughs, the others nodding and cackling as well.

“Oh hush boys, he can’t help that he loves kids. You know he didn’t have much of a childhood himself. Seeing kids just brings out his proud father side, and that want to see them laugh.” Malon hums, handing Wild a bowl to stir in the kitchen.

Then they heard lil thundering footsteps a few seconds later and all looked up seeing a butt naked Twilight dashing into the living room. And a few seconds later a distressed Time shouting for Twilight. Everyone busted out laughing, Time had lost Twilight and was going papa bear mode. Warriors made to get up to scoop the tiny hero up, but Legend had beaten him to it. He had been sitting on the couch and got up and snatched the bare bottom tot under his arms huffing. Twilight just squirmed and giggled.

“You’re just as much a gremlin as Wild arentcha?” he sighs, and moves to hold the hero up, to face him.

“Leg!” Twilight giggles, and the veteran rolls his eyes.

“Oh yes, keep calling me Leg see where it gets… y-you?” he says a smirk forming on his mouth. Then his eyes fell on Twilight and that smirk disappeared into shock and he paled, and suddenly a flush covered his cheeks, and he moved very quickly to hold Twilight against his chest and cover him.

Everyone stopped laughing, and Hyrule rose concerned about Legend’s reactions.

“Hey Legend, what’s wrong- you, okay? You got really pale. Wait, is Twilight okay?” he says, suddenly worried the tot was hurt. Warriors had stood alongside Four concerned. Legend shook his head furiously looking down at Twilight, who stared back at him in confusion.

“Well, if he’s not hurt then what’s wrong with the vet?” Warriors says, scarf sweeping in the air as he approached him. Malon and Wild suddenly paled. And Time was rushing into the room at that moment. But it didn’t stop what Vet said next,

“T-Twilights he's… he’s not a boy- he's… she’s a girl” Vet stuttered out, and everyone froze.

“WHAT!?”

Chapter Text

Apologies that I haven’t updated this or any of my other stories in about two weeks. With the holidays approaching work is getting busy with where I work on top of my only hobby to make videos on YT to be a letsplayer also. Both of these keep me busy but I am steadily typing the next chapters between this Amd other works! Twilight Princess’s next chapter is almost done and I might be able to get that done this week! 

Thank you all for your continued patience and I always have time to talk in the comments Amd definitely enjoy talking potential story arcs or future things I could create in the future even if it’s not in this story! I hope to have the next chapter for My Little Pup up within the month that I think you’ll all enjoy. Thanks again ^^