Aurarius's hooves kick the mud on the dirt road between Ordon Village and Ordon Woods. With no need of stars to guide them, they meander towards the gentle lapping of water.
Ordon Spring has long been a sacred spot for the two of them: the refreshing spring water is a remedy for exhaustion; the birdsong is a sweet symphony to ease their ears. On this crisp autumnal night, the clouds have finally parted; allowing the heavenly artistry of the glittering constellations to reflect on the water's surface. Aurarius's foot breaks the perfectly clear mirror as his master brushes his mane.
"It feels good to be home, right?"
Aurarius purrs with the luxurious touch of his master's fingers as they massage his flank with the blessed water. I could certainly get used to this…
"I think Malon may be right after all: this is the life of retirement we deserve. Perhaps I should give my notice to the barracks and call it a day?"
If that's what you want…
Laurel gazes at the clear water trickling over the rocks before lifting his head to the starry skies above. "What I truly wish for is the knowledge that Ningan is safe and well, wherever he may be."
Aurarius's purring halts at the mention of the ninja's name. Is it time to confess?
Laurel…there's something you should know…about Ningan…
His master's gaze turns back to his steed. "What is it?"
Well…you see…the night that Ningan left…he overheard you and your mother conversing in the kitchen…
He explains how under the guise of a cat, his friend had spied an argument between Laurel and Hestia, which had triggered his need to leave with the Medallion, for the purpose of protecting the both of them from any further harm. Laurel listens to Aurarius's tale with a pang in his heart. Of course Ningan had reason for abandoning him…
"Oh Aurarius…" his master sighs hopelessly. "I wish you had told me this sooner…"
I swear never to keep the truth from you ever again for as long as I live. his steed vows. I am severely guilt-stricken by my irresponsible actions. How can I ever make amends?
"No amends necessary, friend." Laurel dismisses his sorrows. "All I can ask of you is a better understanding of mine and Ningan's friendship. We are bound by our duties to Princess Zelda to co-operate and confide in each other, just as I do with Dakota and Ezra. Yes, he can sometimes come across short, blunt, sarcastic and surly, but this is his nature. He is still good at heart, and I worry for him so. Right now, Ningan is burdened with a monumental task which cannot be accomplished alone. It is therefore up to Dakota, Ezra and myself to return to his side. Likewise, I will always remain by your side, through thick and thin until the end. Lest we forget the hardships we've faced and the victories we shared together."
Recalling their fearsome endeavours during the Derresse Annual Adventure Tour, Aurarius nods his head. Understood.
Laurel's gaze meets the magnificent canvas of stars once more. It was his deceased father who taught him how to stargaze from a young age, denoting various meanings to each constellation which supposedly held the power to determine future events. Tonight, his eyes are drawn to one constellation in particular, which shines brighter than any other. This is Andromeda; the depiction of the 'chained maiden'. Nearby, the planet Mars crosses the night sky like a chariot of fire, on course to collide with Andromeda's constellation. An avid stargazer could conclude from this a range of imminent events. For Laurel, its meaning is direly clear:
"My friends are in danger." he concludes with panic.
Aurarius observes his master's distress with confusion. How so?
"I just…know." the knight answers, attaching a saddle to his steed. "Come. We must go and find them before it's too late."
Aurarius obeys and before long, Laurel mounts the stirrups and jumps into the saddle. He whips the reigns with urgency. Aurarius's hooves shatter the still surface of Ordon Spring as he gallops valiantly in pursuit of the guiding star.