Hello, my lovely readers! I wanted to say something before the chapters begins. Fifteen is my favorite number, and this happens to be chapter fifteen. Do you know what that means?
It's someone's birthday! If you guessed that it is mine, you would be most unfortunately mistaken. It's Asuriel's birthday. That's right, I wrote a long chapter so I could fit in her birthday!
For those who have been paying attention, which I dearly hope is everyone, Asuriel's birthday is very important. Seriously, the entire book is named after the significance of that day. That's when she gets 'The Mark of a Soulmate'.
Is her soulmate who you were expecting?
So, are you totally hyped to read this now? Enjoy!
Contrary to what Asuriel expected, the Demon Lord was very gentle, suppressing his naturally domineering behavior. She expected to be repulsed by his actions, but she was not. Everything about it should have been wrong, but it felt so right; like she was supposed to be there with him, like she was meant to receive this attention from him. It felt too soon when he pulled back. He licked his lips, a mischievous expression playing about his face.
The realization of what she had dawned on Asuriel. He had initiated the kiss, but she had reciprocated it. He knew it too, there was no other obvious reason for him to look so smug. There was no enchantment, no trick of the mind, yet she had returned his gesture, which was impressive because she didn't know what a kiss actually was. Plucking up her courage, she made eye contact with him and spoke.
"Why do I feel so drawn to you?"
"Because, you and I are bound by a thread of fate."
"How is this possible?"
"Maybe that's a question you should be asking yourself."
They both paused.
"I can tell that you are confused, Asuriel. I have questions as well, which will hopefully be answered when I catch that pesky goddess."
He stood up and pulled her into a sitting position.
"You should rest for now, but I expect an answer later."
The next moment, she was alone. There was no use trying to door, it was clearly locked from the outside, an unfortunate property shared by almost every door she encountered. Sighing, she walked around to the head of the bed and layer down on top of the covers. She could at least get some sleep in the meantime. With the sound of the waves against the boat accompanied by the gentle rocking of the ship, Asuriel soon fell fast asleep.
She awoke a few hours later to find that the covers had been drawn over her. Through the portholes, she could see that night had fallen. A quick glance over the room revealed that some food had been left on the desk, but everything else remained unchanged. Rising from the bed, Asuriel walked to the desk and had barely sat down when the whole ship was shaken, as if something enormous had rammed into it. The doors to the room burst open, revealing Link.
"Asuriel come on, we have to get out of here!"
The ship shook again, sending both of them toppling to the floor. Scrambling to his feet, Link grabbed the girl's hand, pulled her upright, and began to make his way to the top of the ship. As they ran, thick, slimy tentacles broke through the walls of the ship, barring their path. Link unsheathed his blade and sent a beam of sacred light to severe them, then pulled Asuriel past the horrid sight to higher places.
Together, they ducked and dodged stray barrels and splintering wood. The water in the ship was rising at a rapid rate and would soon fill the entire ship. Finally, they burst through the last set of doors to find a storm raging on an ocean of turbulent water. They reached the center of the split deck when long tentacles began to break through the floor. One shot through the wood and wound around Link. Immediately, Asuriel thrust her hand forwards, sending forth a beam a sacred light. The tentacle recoiled and released the boy, who was back on his feet in a instant.
"I didn't know you could do that."
"I didn't either, nothing like this has ever happened before."
They were interrupted as more emerged from underneath the deck. Link pushed Asuriel behind himself and got into a defensive stance, shooting beam after beam of light, but there were more than ever.
"I can't keep holding them back, there are too many!"
"Then let me help you. I've been just about useless to you, let me fight with you."
Be paused for a moment before nodding. Standing back to back, they prepared to battle the sea monster. They were constantly on the move to avoid being snatched up by the tentacles. All of a sudden, the tentacles receded, causing Asuriel and Link to give each other worried looks. A rush of water announced the presence of the Tentalus. It's eye glowed a vibrant red-orange as it reared its head. Link held onto her and leapt to the side, causing them to roll across the deck together as the monster's arms swept inches over their heads. In a single movement, Link had drawn his bow and loosed an arrow, hitting his mark and deterring the Tentalus enough for it to dive beneath the surface of the water again.
The process repeated itself, except that Asuriel was learning how to better aim and control her attacks of sacred light. After Link shot the creature in the eye again, it roared loudly. In a fit of rage, it struck the deck, damaging it enough so that large chunks began to fall away into the turbulent water. In the jarring movement, a box fell from a higher position of the deck, allowing both Asuriel and Link to reach the top portion of the deck.
This time, the monster lowered its head slightly, creating a likeness of Medusa as whatever took the appearance of its hair moved towards them. Link sliced as many of them as he could manage, but they were great in number and soon overpowered him, leaving a large bite mark on his forearm.
Asuriel knew she could not defeat all of them, so she created a barrier around herself and the hero. Repulsed by the light of the shield, the eel-like creatures retreated. Meanwhile, Link had regained his footing and loosed a final arrow, sending the Tentalus reeling in agony until it turned black and exploded in a puff of purple smoke.
Asuriel and Link embraced, relieved that the danger had finally passed. The skies cleared and the emblem the represented wisdom glowed golden as a pedestal rose from it. Once Link charged the symbol of the triforce with a Skyward Strike, the flame of Nayru spewed from it. The fire engulfed Fi, and she shot far into the sky before returning and launching the fire at the goddess sword. The blade was sheathed and Link turned to Asuriel.
"After that adventure, I'm sure you would like to return to the Faron Woods for a short time."
"Yes, indeed."
At Asuriel's return, the entire forest was in an uproar. It was no secret to the inhabitants of the realm of Faron that the girl's eighteenth birthday was coming up. Even the birds chirped with excitement and flew about, heralding the arrival of Lothsiriel. When the two entered the Sealed Temple, they were greeted by Impa and Groose, who were both eager to hear of the adventures.
Naturally, Asuriel left out her interaction with the Demon Lord.
"Well, Asuriel, there are only two days until you turn eighteen. We should continue with our preparations, there is much to do."
Asuriel spent a great deal that day with the Kikwis in the forest, gathering berried and nuts as they told her of all the planned festivities.
"After the ceremony at the Skyview Spring, Faron is hosting a great feast in her halls! Kwee, can you imagine? Guests of a dragon!"
The days of preparation passed quickly, and soon the first rays of the day of her birthday shone through the trees. Asuriel opened her eyes and stretched her arms. Her day would undoubtedly be busy, but enjoyable nonetheless. Upon leaving her room, she was greeted by Impa. The girl was led to a carefully made meal, where they ate and reminisced the past years. They had just finished eating when Link walked in and Impa rose from the table.
"My child, I believe that the Hero has a surprise for you."
"Good morning, Link."
"Good morning, Asuriel."
The boy awkwardly scratched the back of his head as he continued.
"Because it is your birthday, I thought that I could get you something. I know that you seemed interested in the things from Skyloft, but instead of bringing you something to look at, I thought you might want to visit there."
Asuriel gasped and turned to Impa.
"Can I go?"
"Yes, child. Be back in time for the ceremony."
Nodding, the girl followed Link outside where they were lifted into the sky.
Asuriel brushed her fingers over the Loftwing's crimson feathers in admiration as they flew to Skyloft.
"So, Asuriel, I though we could start at the knight academy. You can meet some of my classmates and Zelda's father."
"I would love that, thank you, Link!"
When they were close enough, Link and Asuriel leapt from the bird and landed softly with the help of the Sailcloth. The girl stared wide-eyed at the Knight Academy. The inside was more decorated than any structure she had encountered. Link pointed out various rooms as they passed until they met someone in the hall.
"Fledge! Over here."
A rather small and nervous-looking boy trotted over to them.
"Fledge, I would like you to meet Asuriel. Asuriel, this is Fledge."
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Fledge."
"Likewise."
He sounded very nervous, yet his shy smile was genuine. Link realized that he may have been slightly off put because her eyes were different colors, so he quickly explained.
"Her eyes are different colors, but it is both natural and rare. Fi said it was called Heterochromia."
He nodded.
"They are very pretty."
"Thank you, yours eyes are pretty as well."
This made him blush a little and he excused himself, still a little flustered.
"We might find the Headmaster in his office."
When they reached the top of the stairs, they were met by Horwell on his way to feed Mia breakfast.
"Why hello, Link- who's this? I dare say we haven't met yet."
"This is Asuriel. Asuriel, this is Instructor Horwell."
"Pleased to meet you, Instructor Horwell."
"The same to you. It is a joy to see youths with such good manners- oh, could it be? Do you per chance have Heterochromia?"
"Why, yes. If you mean that my eyes are different colors."
"I hope you don't mind that I stare. I have read about this but I have never seen it with my own eyes."
"Of course, I don't mind."
Asuriel brushed a few strands of hair out of her face as Horwell's gaze shifted between the emerald green of her right eye and the deep amber of her left.
"Fascinating...
We'll, I'll let you go now. Thank you, Asuriel. I hope you enjoy your visit to our academy."
"Farewell."
Horwell continued down the stairs as Link and Asuriel entered the Headmaster' office.
"Link, my boy! How can I help you? Oh who's your friend here?"
"This is Asuriel. This is Headmaster Gaepora."
"It is a pleasure to meet one of Link's friends, but I can't say that I have seen you around Skyloft."
"I'm from the Surface."
The Headmaster's jaw practically dropped to the floor.
"The Surface?!"
"Yes. I was created by Her Grace Hylia."
"My Zelda... created you."
Pride filled his face as he marveled that his daughter, even though in her previous form, had the power to create a living being.
"Link wanted me to see his home, so we are here visiting."
"In that case, welcome to Skyloft. Link knows the skies better than anyone, there is no better person to show you around. If you ever need anything, come and ask me."
"Thank you for your generosity."
A few minutes later, Link and Asuriel exited the academy where they ran into Pipit.
"Good day, Link!"
"Hello, Pipit. There is someone I want you to meet. This is Asuriel. Asuriel, this is Pipit."
"A pleasure it is to make your acquaintance, Asuriel. I trust that you have everything you need?"
"Indeed I do. Thank you fo being so hospitable."
"That's the Pipit way!"
With a nod, he began his patrol again and Link led the girl to the edge of the island.
"There is something I want to show you, but it's a little hard to get to."
They jumped off of the platform and Link to her over to a small section of grass outside the high walls of the goddess statue. Asuriel paused when she heard a small noise from a patch of grass. A tiny creature stood up and stretched, meowing and making its way to her. Experimentally, Asuriel reached out and brushed its fur with her hand, rubbing in between its ears. The creature purred and Asuriel giggled at the odd noise. Both sat down as Link explained.
"These are Remlits. Very cute and harmless at daytime, but temperamental at night."
Just then, a chorus of meows erupted from the flower beds and tall grass patches as an innumerable number of remlits approached to Asuriel. The curled up against her, some resting peacefully and some trying to get her attention to be petted. Link was also swarmed by the cute creatures; it was clear he was a regular visitor. Soon, Asuriel found herself laying down, surrounded by remlits. The gentle vibrations of their purring against her chest relaxed her and she hummed a small melody that harmonized with the gentle sound.
"Thank you for taking me to see the remlits, they are so cute!"
"Yeah, I like visiting them. We are almost at the Lumpy Pumpkin."
"Thank you for taking me to lunch."
"Of course! If you think the soup was good when I brought it to the Surface, you should try it when it's freshly made."
They landed and entered the pumpkin shaped building. The inside was warm and inviting. A few people sat around tables, chatting idly and laughing together. Link led Asuriel to a counter where a man with a big, bushy mustache walked over and addressed them.
"What can I get for you two today?"
"Two pumpkin soups please."
"Coming right up. An if I may ask, who is this lovely lady."
"This is Asuriel."
"Oh, yes, I remember you mentioned her when you were last here a few days ago. A voice like bird, you said. Well, how about this, if you and Asuriel preform a little song for us on stage, your soup is on the house."
"Asuriel, are you comfortable singing in front of other people."
She laughed lightly.
"Link, I've sung in front of dragons, don't worry about me."
"Well, to the stage you go then."
The two walked to the stage and Link took out his harp. The people quieted and respectfully turned their attention to them.
"How about the Ballad of the Goddess?"
"Okay, I can play that."
With a light strum, the song began. The moment Asuriel began to sing, the whole building was filled with heavenly music. A few people closed their eyes, letting the sounds wash over them. Even Link was still surprised, for he had forgotten just how lovely her voice was. At the end of the song, everybody clapped as they exited the stage. Pumm was wiping his eyes as he handed them their soup.
"That was just beautiful. Maybe you could come and sing again sometime."
"Of course, I would love to."
Asuriel and Link sat at an empty table, enjoying their soup.
"This is delicious, Link! Thank you."
"Anytime. I wanted to do something special for you."
"I really appreciate everything. Everyone I have met has been so polite and friendly."
When they finished, they thanked Pumm and flew back to the main island. They were on their way to the bazaar when a little girl ran up.
"Link! Hi Link!"
"Kukiel, hi. How are you?"
"Good. I saw you earlier with that pretty girl. Who is she?"
"This is Asuriel."
Asuriel smiled and crouched down.
"Hello, Kukiel. How old are you?"
"I am four."
She stated it proudly, confidently holding up five fingers for Asuriel to see.
"I like your eyes, both of them are very pretty."
"Thank you."
"Can I take you to see Uncle Bats? I think he would like you."
"Sure, where is he?"
"Follow me!"
With that, the little girl ran as fast as her little legs could carry her. Asuriel smiled at Link before she followed, and the Hero joined them as well.
The way to 'Uncle Bats' house was very interesting, but Asuriel loved exploring and hidden passages. Kukiel stood in front of a worn door, hopping up and down in anticipation. When Asuriel reached her, the young girl pushed through and embraced a tall figure inside. He greeted her and, when he heard he had other company, invited Asuriel. Link, who already was acquainted with Batreaux, called Kukiel.
"I need your advise for something, do you think you could help?"
"Yeah!"
She eagerly scampered out of the hut, leaving Asuriel and 'Uncle Bats' alone.
"Hello, I am Batreaux. You must be Asuriel, Kukiel was very excited for me to meet you."
"Yes, she is such a cute little thing."
"Yes. If you don't mind me asking, where are you from?"
"The surface."
"I thought as much. Many strange things happen there."
"Indeed."
"Forgive me for being so blunt, but do you know any demons?"
"How did you know?"
"Oh, just the aura. It's quite strong you know."
"Is it really that noticeable."
"Only to those who can sense it. I am also a demon, so I can tell with ease that you have met Ghirahim. I'm sure he's told you that he is a Demon Lord. Naturally, he finds it in his fancy to visit me occasionally, although he dislikes me. He thinks I am too kind, but he still asks small tasks, trivial things for which he has no time."
"I hope he is polite to you."
"Well, as you probably know, he has his own way of sounding polite, but he all so delights in a good insult. When you first came in, I was worried that Kukiel had somehow found him, for I felt his aura by the door. Now I know that it was only you carrying it. Still, it is quite strong. I could have sworn that he kissed you, but I have never known him to get that attached to anyone."
Asuriel had to hide the blush that was threatening to overcome her face. Perhaps she could change the subject.
Asuriel bid Batreaux farewell and went back up to the main part of Skyloft. There she found Link, his hands behind his back.
"Here, I have something I wanted to give you."
The Hero held out his hands, revealing a small wood carving of a Loftwing.
"It's beautiful, Link."
"Thank you. Happy birthday. For the last part of your tour, allow me to take you to meet someone in the bazaar."
"Okay, lead the way."
They strode through the open room until the stood in front of a very small man with big, round eyes. When he saw them, he called out.
"Gaze into my eyes... stare deeply into my eyes... these eyes see many things. Oh yes, these lovely, round eyes can even see... into the future! Allow me to tell your future, girl!"
Smiling, Link pushed her towards the fortune teller.
"Let me see... yes, you have powerful friends, or powerful enemies. You are caught in a web of many threads, yet are only bound by one. Knowledge is found in truth, but your peace is found through acceptance. Yet my eyes grow tired. Come back another day and ask no more of me now."
Asuriel shot Link a questioning look as they walked away.
"What? He always has something interesting to say."
The girl laughed. "Yes, those were quite the riddles, weren't they?"
"Now that the time has come, are you ready to go back?"
"Yes, but more excitement is expected for tonight."
Together, they flew back down to the Surface. Asuriel was called inside the temple to prepare for the ceremony. Impa gave her a special dress, made of layers of white silk. The pieces of the skirt resembled the petals of a white lily, and those kinds of flowers adorned her hair as they were woven into intricate braids.
"You have grown up to be such a fine, young lady. The goddess could not have given me a better child. It is time to go to the spring. Do you have the gloves Faron gave you?"
"Yes."
"I will take them until you put them on."
The entire community of the Faron region was at the spring. Asuriel stood with Impa in the water before the statue of the goddess. During the ceremony, Impa slope of Asuriel's duty to the goddess and to her soulmate. Finally, when all the speaking was done, Impa produced the gloves. Asuriel offered her hands and Impa gently put them on the girl's hands.
"May the blessing of the goddess be with you and your soulmate to the ends of the ages."
Asuriel's right hand was suddenly surrounded by golden light, which grew brighter until, with a flash, it was gone. Even without looking, she knew it. She had her mark. It would remain on her hand forever, as a reminder to her of her loyalty to her creator and her match. A cheer went up throughout the assembled congregation and, with newfound joy, they made their way to the Halls of Faron.
Asuriel sat beside the great dragon as they feasted together. The room was merry and even Link seemed more social than usual. The kikwis and some of the members of Faron's court presented her with small gifts, with she thanked them for. Even Groose presented her with a small music box he designed since he discovered his talent in engineering. The sun had long set, and yet the festivities continued. Link took out his harp and played a song while kikwis and humans alike danced. Fi joined in, leaping lightly around the room as the melody grew and expanded.
Finally, when all the people where tired and worn out, the final farewells were said and all returned to their homes. When Asuriel and Impa entered the Sealed Temple, Impa insisted that Asuriel retire. After all, she would only be allowed to remove her gloves in private.
The girl shut the door to her room and collapsed on the bed. She felt exhausted by her effort of the past few days. She had never seen so many people gathered together and she was ready to rest. However, among the small trinkets and items given to her, an unknown box stood out from the rest. Standing up, she walked over to her dresser where it sat. It was a medium sized black box tied with a crimson ribbon. Curiously, she untied it and removed the lid.
Inside the box was a journal. The cover was a rich, emerald green with metallic golden designs of leaves and vines inlaid on it. Inside, a few pages were filled with neat, elegant writing. It was detailing the spells that she had learned and how to preform them. The handwriting caught her attention the most. Where had she seen such a style before?
At the bottom of the box was an even smaller box, an exact replica of the first, save the size. Upon opening it, the contents nearly caused Asuriel to drop it and scream. Inside the small box was a single, crimson, diamond earring. She recognized it immediately, for it shone with the same brilliance as a faire light. This crystal had been made from the light that day in the caves in Lanayru when a certain person had beat her at her own game, managing to land a single shard of light in the wall. Besides for the color, it matched something else very distinctive, giving away the giver immediately.
The present was from Ghirahim.
Still, there was nothing wrong with it, no enchantment that she could sense. Now that she thought about it, the journal made sense. He had a great understanding of magic and could discover how she conducted spells as well as gage her power range. The journal was for recording spells, and the latest added was the one she had used to fight the Tentalus. It sat alone in the offensive spell section.
The gift as aide, there was one more important thing. Taking a deep breath Asuriel sat down and fingered the edge of the glove. She had waited eighteen years for this moment, to know who she was supposed to be with. Who she was meant to get attention from. But, what if it all went wrong? What if there was no mark, or if it wasn't clear. What if Hylia was mistaken in her choice of a match for Asuriel?
No, that was absurd, Hylia would never be mistaken. She counted to three under her breath and removed the glove.
An intricate design of diamonds was outlined on the back of her hand.
The sign was clear.
Ghirahim was her soulmate.