A/N I am really, really sorry for not updating. My health has been super iffy, but I'm slowly getting better. My final exams are next week so I've also been busy with studying. I haven't been able to find motivation to write either, I'm not sure why. It's just been difficult. I want to get my fictionpress up and running a lot more, but I gotta finish this stuff first. I plotted the chapters out for this one, the 2nd epilogue for RS, and the 1st chapter of Captivity, but I haven't gotten around to writing them down. I started writing this chapter a week or so ago, but it got deleted. My files got screwed up by something and no matter what I tried, they wouldn't come back. At least I have the motivation to write currently, this author's note is being written on June 2. Let's see how fast I can get this chapter out. The poem at the beginning here wasn't written by me (of course), but I did alter it before. It was part of the reason I didn't want to write this chapter since IIo would have to find it and alter it again.

IMPORTANT EDIT: I was going to have a series of one-two shots following this story, I was gonna just leave them in this story, but I decided to make them a sequel. This sequel is going to be called "In All but Blood" and it's going to be about Link growing up. I hope you guys like it, technically it can be a stand alone fanfic as well. I'm out of school so I hope I can get back into thee swing of things.

Anyway, enjoy this chapter. I am so sorry for taking so long. If you have finals too, I wish you luck. Stay safe everyone

It'll be hard to put my trust in you

Because I've been hurt in the past.

The constant doubt in the back of my mind

Thinking, "This affection, it won't last."

It'll be very difficult to give my all

being you could always leave and go.

But as time goes on and we grow close

Perhaps my trust for you will grow.

There is nothing wrong with you, it's me

Due to these trust issues I acquired.

Picture being taken from your home

And the only people you ever admired.

Now you know my situation,

See it from my point of view.

I just can't stand the pain again

My heart broken, cold, and blue.

Chapter 5

Impatience is a difficult thing to deal with, everyone has felt it. The impatience of feeling cooped up inside, of expecting something that may not arrive, of wanting days to go by faster than they are. For Rusl it was the wait for the letter and the increasing stress over their dwindling food supply. While he wanted to be there when the letter arrived, he realized that he probably wouldn't. Several days had gone by and it came to his attention that they were out of meat and the dried fruit he had stocked up was nearly gone. So much for reading the letter right away, he had to go hunting soon.

Ever since the Hylian child had crossed his threshold things had changed a lot in Rusl's home. There was a new routine and it revolved mostly around taking care of Link. Before his parents had passed away they had told him many times he was their world. Was that what they meant? Did playing the role of a parent mean you completely put yourself to the side? That sounded right, but he had to admit it was hard.

Concern for the boy was first and foremost, even thoughts for his own wife were occasionally pushed aside. Rarely did he spare his mind to think about himself. Only a handful of dried apple slices left? They go to the boy. Leftover bread? It goes to his wife. He couldn't exactly complain since he didn't mind that much, but it did show him part of the responsibilities that came with taking care of a wife and a child. It was actually kinda hard, all the worrying over the youth and having to help him adjust and get used to using a crutch, comforting him, helping him in any way possible. It was busy, yet, it was enjoyable. There was just something about it that made him wish the circumstances that brought Link into his life were cheerier, as though he was just a distant uncle taking care of his nephew for awhile. Instead he was watching a traumatized boy struggle to get his childhood back without the help of his family.

The reluctant days that came before the letter's arrival went by both quickly and obnoxiously slow. There were moments that went by too fast, small smiles made by a sad child, fleeting laughter that only lingered briefly in the air, moments of peace untainted by solemnity; they went by too fast. Then there was the long, boring parts of their time, they dragged on and on, unrelenting and tough against attempts at entertainment. While some were just childish boredom or Rusl's frustration at the passage of time, some slow moments were more…heartfelt. Yes, there were little pauses where comfort was needed and solace bonded with silence. Little points in time that were dedicated solely to the comfort of a small Hylian that was separated from his family. They were special, but the child did not need two strangers there for him, he needed his real family. With luck the response from the castle would help in at least finding Link's village.

Contrary to what Rusl believed, it had only been a couple days since he and Bo had sent the letter to the castle. To him it felt like a week. Not because he despised the time spent with a child in his home, quite the opposite. He could never hate the boy or any child really. The swordsman was simply anxious about returning the boy to his home, even if there was a slight possibility the parents could be dead there would at least be someone familiar, right? Someone in the boy's village or perhaps somebody from the area that was willing to take care of him? There was so much to worry about for Link, it was getting to him.

While the days were boring there were some interesting aspects. Rusl had little to no chance of keeping the boy a secret or away from the other villagers.

It was only a day after the letter had been sent that word started spreading. Even if Rusl had not taken the boy out of the comfort of his home, Fado's mother mentioned his odd request for children's clothes. It's not every day that such a thing happens unless somebody was expecting a baby in the future so of course all the women were curious. If it weren't for Jaggle spotting Rusl and Link walking together they probably would have been bombarded by the womenfolk trying to find out if Uli was expecting or not. He was quite happy that even though they couldn't retain anonymity for the boy, they were at least gifted a bit more privacy thanks to Bo. The Mayor was told by Jaggle first, he then personally went around to each home and informed them briefly of the situation and why Rusl's home needed to be given space. Both he and Uli were very thankful for being left alone in their house. Being outside however, that was different. Nothing ever really happens in a small village. Any interesting events are noticed quickly.

Link's first interaction with another villager went as well as expected. It was the second day after the letter had been sent out and the Hylian was, obviously, still struggling to adjust. All three of them were outside when Sera approached them. She was there for honest reasons, Uli had promised to help her sew a tricky outfit as a gift. While the other woman was there for reasons beyond that of seeing the small boy, she was still curious, as was everybody.

Rusl was outside repairing the makeshift crutch in the warm sun, Link was there most likely out of paranoia. The poor thing didn't seem to take solitude very well and preferred sticking close to either the older man or Uli. While her husband worked on their doorstep, Uli had been washing the mud stains from his hunting clothes. She was the first to notice Sera walk over to them. Greeting her casually, she dried her hands and stood, already chatting away. Regardless of Sera's friendly demeanor, Link had immediately scooted behind Rusl. Chuckling slightly, the swordsman glanced behind him at the boy. The youth was peeking around at the two women, his curiosity evident past his fear.

"Aw, he looks so precious, Uli." Sera gushed at the sight, her curiosity inevitably overtaking her.

Uli smiled in quiet agreement, but she was hoping Link wouldn't be too frightened. Thankfully, Sera didn't smother him. All she did was wave and continue to talk with Uli. The entire time the other woman was there, which wasn't long, the small Hylian stayed behind Rusl. Both women eventually walked to Sera's home after the laundry was hung up to dry. Following their departure a sigh of relief was heard.

As soon as Rusl finished repairing the crutch he gave it back to the timid child. The shabby support had simply fallen apart earlier that day, luckily it didn't look like it would be necessary after about a week or so of healing. A small, fond smile rested on the swordsman's face as the boy followed him back inside. Link didn't seem much like a people person, but he still seemed friendly enough. For what trauma he had gone through, it seemed he had retained some hope in people, enough to trust Rusl bit by bit.

Before he had to go hunting, Rusl continued to learn more and more about that sweet little boy staying with them. Loud noises would send him scurrying away from the source or jumping nearly a foot in the air. Hiding was also a habit of his, the swordsman encountered it for the first time when Sera came around, but any time he became frightened or was unsure he would hide behind Rusl or Uli. A sweet, shy, small Hylian boy far from his home, such apprehension born of a terrible experience. Who would have the heart to do that to a child? A sweet little child. What man would steal an innocent life away? The fact Rusl had no one to condemn, no one to bring to justice, it bothered him. Made him feel as if he should be able to do more for the tainted life in his home. Yet, all he could do was wait. Wait for a blasted letter to arrive.

Thoughts of frustration and anger would only glance off of Rusl's mind. Worry and care would always drift back to Uli and Link. As much as he hated the thought, he knew he had to leave. His wife knew it too. A day or two wasn't that long, but it was. Two days spent worrying, and thinking. Had the letter arrived while he was gone? What would it say? Would it be helpful? Could they find Link's village?

Scents and sights blurred together, noises a background to his hunting spree. Before long he had gathered plenty of spring nuts and berries, along with the hide and meat of a young doe. Despite his focus being divided he had still managed to shoot the animal, blood and must another sensation ignored by his turbulent mind. He had to get back home, usually he was not single minded, rarely so focused on one thing. There was a sense of obligation thrown into the mess of his impatience. Walking back into the village was difficult with all the excess weight he was carrying, but it was worth it. Rays or early morning sunshine were framing the new dawn when he arrived, the scent of blood and meat contrasting against the scent of blooming wildflowers. He had left and returned so quickly, the boy's future was important to him.

Upon opening the door he was immediately greeted with the wide, sleepy eyes of the little Hylian he had spent so much time worrying about. Link was sitting up in bed, heavy hands rubbing droopy eyelids. With a kind smile, Rusl took off his pack, reaching inside he pulled out a small pouch and placed it by the boy. He proceeded to take out the other packs of nuts and berries as well as the meat, all neatly wrapped. Amusement danced across his face after seeing Link fast asleep once again with the small pouch of berries he had given him grasped in one hand. As soon as he got everything put away he strode out the door.

Eagerness to talk with Bo and seeing if the letter arrived only increased as he walked down the path, prompting him to jog. The early hours did not stop him that time, he rapped on the door with his knuckles several times. Morning light illuminated the world around him, going unnoticed by him. Birds greeted the light and all he could think of was how slow Mayor Bo was in getting to the door. He was about to knock again when the frazzled older man opened the door.

"Rusl, do you know what time it is?" Bo grumbled, annoyed at being woken up.

"Dawn is a perfectly acceptable time to be awake, Bo." He retorted, "Did the letter come while I was gone?"

The Mayor sighed and nodded.

"Well?" Rusl asked, "Was it good news?"

The swordsman's face fell at the expression held in the other's. Bo opened the door wider to let him in, walking to the table where an open envelope with a broken red seal of wax. Rusl followed him, picking up the paper and pulling out the parchment inside.

Mayor of Ordon,

As the Royal Counsel of Hyrule, we regret to inform you that there is no way for us to assist the child you wrote us about. The region from whence the boy came is no longer under the rule of King Daphnes, long live the King. In order to avoid conflict with the neighboring kingdom it was gifted to their appointed ruler. Interfering with matters pertaining to the way they govern their own lands, even regarding what we know as Human Traffickers, is not within our power to intervene. While it is agreeable that the tragedy is unfortunate, the only assistance we, as a busy counsel, can offer is advice. We advise you to avoid the borders of our adjoining lands for the time being, not only because we are still in threat of conflict, but there also appears to be an increase in slavers and trafficking. To improve the future of the child, it has been suggested that he find work. There will always be work in Castle Town; if you so wish to relinquish the child to the local orphanage they would be most appreciative and gladly find him a career in which he could become an Apprentice. From the description you offered up, a laconic child would be chosen swiftly by most Blacksmiths, seeing as how taciturnity is welcome in such a field. We offer our condolences to the boy, may he be able to thrive and contribute to our blessed Kingdom of Hyrule.

Regretfully,

The Royal Counsel of Hyrule

Rusl stared in disbelief at the fancy parchment covered in swirly, pompous writing.

"They can't help? That's nonsense! The people who took Link came into our borders! Surely they can do something, anything! Anything besides trying to recruit a boy who doesn't even look like he has seen 5 summers yet!" in his anger, the swordsman tossed the parchment back onto the table, "All they are doing is attempting to gain from him! What does laconic even mean?! Same with taciturnity?! Royal Counsel? Bah! Counsel of fools more like."

Bo remained silent as the man before him raged and thanked the Goddesses that his daughter slept like a rock most days. He too had been quite frustrated with the lack of help they received, but his anger had abated the previous day. Patiently, he waited for Rusl to calm down. It took awhile, but eventually the swordsman became silent, resting in a chair with his elbows on the table. Hands intertwined, he held them close to his bearded chin, glaring at the offending letter the entire time.

"As far as I could discern, laconic and taciturnity is related to Link's silence." Bo pulled out a chair, his weight causing it to groan slightly as he sat down.

Frustration bubbled up again and the younger man ran his fingers through his hair.

"Goddesses, what are we to do, Bo? Masters aren't the nicest people and they only accept boys that look at least 7 winters, the poor thing would suffer under any kind of trade."

Bo looked away for a moment, pondering. "I've been thinking about that too. We could still send him to the orphanage, perhaps they will wait for him to grow some more before they send him to a trade."

"I'm not sure about that, I wish we could just find his home again, but it's illegal without permission and we just barely made a pact with the other kingdom. Fighting them was…it was terrible, I-"

Bo cut him off there, "It's alright, I see what you mean, my friend. I don't want him to be sent to work in Castle Town either, and I also wish he could be sent home. So, I believe we have to make an alternative."

"What do you mean? What kind of alternative?"

"Well, I was thinking I could take him under my wing, figuratively speaking. I bet he and Ilia would get along decently. Just until he is old enough to be an Apprentice that is."

Rusl went quiet, rolling the idea over in his head. Bo was right, that seemed like the best option, besides, it's not like his own home with Uli was prepared for a child. The Mayor was used to young children, it was fitting.

"Once again I see why you're the Mayor, it appears to be the wisest option for now." He was relieved to know that matters were resolved so quickly.

Getting up, Rusl made a move to leave the large home.

"Wait a moment longer, Rusl. I have another proposition. I am prepared to take the boy into my home, but I doubt he is prepared to become a part of it. He…doesn't trust me like he trusts you. It seems wise to keep him here in the village, but there is no point if he isn't comfortable." He paused briefly, "I believe that he should stay with you. I understand that it can be a struggle to feed him, don't worry. I'll make sure he won't go hungry, if you need anything then you can come to me."

Rusl was stunned, sure he was capable of caring for the child for a couple of days, but for 2 whole years?! If not longer? That was a lot of responsibility and he wasn't sure if he was ready for it. Yet, at the same time it seemed right.

"I-I'm not sure, er, let me talk to Uli about it first." As soon as his mouth shut, the door was opened and closed, his feet already leading him back to his house.

He opened the door with a huff of uncertainty and a jumble of other emotions. Uli was awake by then, preparing a simple breakfast with some of the venison he brought home.

"Morning honey, what did the letter say? I heard it arrived yesterday."

Glancing at the child-sized lump under the covers of their bed he began to tell her about it. Bo's idea was brought up soon after, bringing her actions to a halt.

"He'd stay here with us? It would be a lot of work, Rusl. He's sweet ,but any child can be a handful."

A nod of agreement followed, "I know, Uli, but it doesn't seem like a bad idea. Bo is right, he does trust us more than anyone else at the moment."

She sighed, "We'll talk more about this later. For now, let's eat." With a gentle, tender hand she kindly shook Link awake.

Tired eyes blinked open once again, Link sat up and slowly moved out of bed. Getting out of bed seemed to be a real obstacle for him, not just because of his leg. He hopped over to the table with the pouch of berries Rusl had given him in one hand. Chuckling a bit, the older man watched as the youth made quick work of the small fruit before Uli had even served the venison.

It was during that humble breakfast of lean deer that both Rusl and Uli decided within that they wouldn't mind such a life. A life caring for a boy who was lacking a familiar face, a warm home to stay. A life comforting and helping a sad, young Hylian before he would make a bigger mark on the world. Such a beautiful morning, light streaming into a home with three content faces, what more could the world want? What more could the humble, makeshift family want?

It was quiet at the table, by the time the platters and cups were put away only a few words had been spoken. Link sat blinking in the morning sun from the window, crutch close at hand. Uli and Rusl whispered in the corner briefly, their conversation ending with two large smiles. Rusl's drifted into a smaller, fond smile as he walked over to the Hylian. Uli watched as her husband whispered to the child, leading him outside and down the path. She watched from the window as they made their way to the entrance of Ordon and disappeared.

Along the edge of the woods, Rusl came to a halt. He crouched down, a hand on Link's shoulder. The explanation was simple and the older man watched the youth's face and eyes shift between several expressions. There was sadness first, being what Rusl could only believe to be the pure sadness of lost hope. Sympathy swelled up inside him, he wasn't capable of imagining that he would never be able to see even one familiar person ever again. A child, so very, very far from home, never to return. The proposal to let him stay with them was taken with joy then sadness when he found it came with a catch. Two years, then Castle Town? Again, it was hard to imagine what the poor thing was thinking. After the swordsman was done talking, he offered an embrace, arms open wide. Tiny, twig-like arms wrapped around him in response. This was a new life that Link had been thrown into, but it seemed he was willing to take his chances with it.

Rusl did never find out what led to a kidnapped Hylian getting lost in the woods near Ordon. At least not then. Later, he found out. Later, when the Hylian regained the some will to speak, to write, was he able to tell them. Yet, that's a different story. A different matter that would almost best be forgotten.

However, as time passed, promises were forgotten, whether on purpose or not it was hard to tell. Rusl never kept that mental promise that he would take Link to become an Apprentice. Two years turned to three, eventually three turned to four, four to six, and finally six to twelve. Twelve years of love and devotion, trust to be built upon the foundation of it all.

Even when the darkness fell, and the Hero faced the threat of loneliness, he knew. He knew it deep down, that he had in fact, seen darker days. At least on his quest he wasn't alone. At the back of his mind he would always remember that, always remember he had been in days of darkness and he had come out triumphant, only with help of those he loved and he'd be damned before he let any of them be hurt.

Family is family, even if it is in all but blood. You don't need to be related to love them as such.