The Legend of Zelda: Glaive of Souls

by lavender phoenix

AU. Nothing was as it should be. That's what Del thought after her and her friends were suddenly transported to the land of Hyrule. Since day one she's running from bokoblins, arguing with heroes, pursued by an unseen force, and searching for a legendary weapon that doesn't even exist in the games. Everything she thought she knew about The Legend of Zelda will be put to the test.

14. The Riddles

Hello everyone!

First off, I have to say that I'm really, really sorry for the delay of this chapter. My recent semester of school turned out to be an incredibly rough one for me and monopolized all my time and energy.

But even with the large gap between post, I can't thank each and everyone of you enough for sticking with this story. It means more to me than you know!

That being said, for anyone who worries that this story might not continue, please rest easy because I have NO intentions of stopping till it's done! It might take me awhile (because life sucks that way...) but it will be finished :)

So, I hope everyone enjoys this chapter. I'm actually quite pleased with the way it turned out :D

As always, thank you all for every read, comment, fave and follow!

Disclaimer: I don't own LoZ; only my OC's and plot.

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Then she grinned at us behind the vapors of lilac. "Find the pieces and restore the glaive to its former glory, and you will have your weapon to defeat the Darkness."

---

Link, Shad, Parker and I sat motionless as we stared transfixed at Impaz, watching in silence as she picked up her teacup from the side of her chair and downed the rest of its contents in one gulp.

"Anyone for more tea?" she asked as she lowered the cup from her lips.

The sound of her voice broke through the stillness; and the four of us shifted slowly as if we were statues coming to life.

Link gave his head a little shake before he said, "Thank you for the offer, Impaz, but I think it's time that we started to head back," and he began to gently remove the (now) four cats from his lap, then stood up.

"Very well," Impaz nodded, and scooted out of her chair to empty her pipe in the fireplace.

"We can't leave yet!" Shad exclaimed, shooting up from the ground and racing to his bag. After a second of rummaging he pulled out some crumpled pieces of blank paper and a writing utensil. "Impaz, I need you to repeat the riddles," he said as he marched over to her. "Exactly as you said them before!"

Impaz turned her head; and I watched as her eyes started to narrow when Link stepped into my line of sight, offering me his hand. I took it with a smile and he helped me to my feet. Just as I was about to thank him I stopped, my attention being drawn to Shad and Impaz arguing loudly.

"They shouldn't be documented!" Impaz exclaimed, stomping her foot.

"You've already told us the riddles! What does it matter if they're written now?" Shad countered with a stomp of his own.

Annoyed with their petty squabbling, I was just about to walk out of the house when their argument took a turn. Impaz said something that sent Shad into near hysterics. His body was visibly shaking, his glasses were barely hanging on to the tip of his nose, and his fingers were gripped so tightly onto the papers that they actually managed to puncture holes in them.

"I'm going to see if I can help sort things out," Link said with a sigh.

"Good idea," I nodded.

As he turned and started to walk away a funny sensation overtook my hand, as if a light pressure was being released. Confused, I quickly looked down and noticed that that feeling was actually caused by Link's hand leaving mine.

Huh… We both got so distracted by Shad and Impaz that we didn't even notice we were still holding hands, I mused; then I snickered softly at how ridiculous it was.

"What's so funny?" Parker asked, standing from the floor with his half-drunk cup of tea in his hand.

"Nothing," I answered with a shake of my head. Then I bent down to pick up my teacup. "Would you mind?" I asked, holding it out to him.

Parker took my cup then walked over to the little sink in the corner alcove.

I turned my attention back to the argument, trying to see if I could get a sense of how it was going when my mind randomly started to wander.

I still found it amusing that both Link and I never realized that our hands were joined for so long; and suddenly I couldn't help but think back to all the times that his hand held mine…

After the bokoblin attack, when he removed the ax from my unmoving fingers…

Once, when we were running away from the Skull Kid's skeleton puppets in the Sacred Grove…

When he wrapped his hand around mine as we took a picture with the Master Sword…

When he refused to let my hand go after it froze from the ice keese…

Just now…

My chest warmed as my heartbeat started to quicken.

A small smile rose on my lips the more I thought about it; realizing at some point just how much I enjoyed having my hand held by Link. The warmth and strength of his wrapped around mine made me feel—

My smile faltered slightly as that thought sent my heart into a tizzy.

Whoa, Del. Don't even go there… Your focus needs to be on getting home! …Nothing else.

I took a few deep breaths to try and clear my head; then I looked back over at Link.

He had pulled Shad and Impaz away from the fireplace and was standing almost between them, both hands raised at chest level to push them apart if need be. The scholar and the old woman were no longer yelling, but you could tell that their conversation was still strained from the looks on their faces. Link said a few things to the two of them, then turned to Impaz and said something that had her throw her head back and cackle. She nodded then reached out to take Shad's almost-destroyed-papers and writing utensil, and started to write.

Link took that moment to look up, locking his eyes with mine as he did.

And without warning, the dark blue of his eyes became like rushing waters, engulfing me in his gaze as I held myself still. I felt something shift inside me as I stared at him, transfixed.

A hand landed on my shoulder and I jumped.

"You okay?" Parker asked.

I looked at him and felt the waters start to recede.

"Just fine," I rasped as my throat suddenly went dry.

Tentatively, I looked back at Link (who was talking with Impaz again), and took a deep, core shuddering breath.

…Del, you need to focus on getting home…

"Well, it looks like we have everything we need," Link said as he walked away from Impaz and back over to me and Parker. Then he looked at me funny. "Are you okay?"

"Yeah, why?" I asked casually.

"You look a little… off."

I felt myself redden. "Oh, uh… must be from all the excitement of today," I shrugged, trying to remain calm.

He nodded, accepting my answer. However, there was a slight squint to his eyes that told me he wasn't totally convinced.

"We should get going," I suggested with a clap of my hands.

Link's eyes returned to normal as he said, "Let's get the horses," then turned and made his way to the front door. Parker and I followed behind, with Impaz and Shad in tow.

The late afternoon sun was hot on my shoulders as Shad, Impaz and I waited for Link and Parker to bring the horses to the front of the house.

"Del?" Shad said, turning to me. "Would it be alright if I ride with Parker this time?"

I blinked in surprise. "How come?"

"I'd like to start deciphering the answers to these riddles, and I want Parker's input. It'll be easier to discuss all of this if we are on the same horse."

"Uh, sure."

"Wonderful!" Shad exclaimed and then walked over to Parker, who had reappeared with Link and the horses. "I will be riding with you on the journey home. We have much to talk about!"

Parker's eyes widened slightly, looking over Shad's shoulder to me before looking back at Shad. "Uh-"

"Excellent!" Shad said as he clapped Parker hard on the back. Then he adjusted his large bag over his shoulders and started to head down the village path.

"Looks like you'll be riding with me," I heard Link say as he and Epona came up beside me.

"Looks like it," I said as I looked away from Parker's stunned face to Link's. He was smiling widely, as if this turn of events made him happy. I felt the beating of my heart pick up the tempo. "W- well, I'm going to make sure that Parker's going to be okay with this new arrangement. Meet you out there?"

Link nodded before turning to Impaz and extending her his arm. She giggled like a little girl as she reached up and took it; then the two of them headed for the exit.

My stomach fluttered.

I heard the echo of hooves and turned to see Parker walking up to me, an annoyed look on his face.

"I'm sorry you have to ride with Shad," I apologized, "but I don't think anything would've stopped him for sitting with you," I said honestly.

"Riding with Shad isn't the problem," Parker said quietly as the two of us walked side-by-side. "It's coming up with a way to avoid answering the riddles- while still being helpful- that has me annoyed."

"Avoid answering..? Hang on; are you saying that you've already figured them out?" I asked in a hard whisper.

"I think so," he nodded. "But there are a few things I'd like to fact-check before we go telling everyone else."

"Holy… shit…" I breathed. "Will you tell me now?" I asked, eager beyond belief to hear the answers.

Parker just grinned and shook his head. "I'll tell you everything later tonight. I promise."

I glared at him, but couldn't hold it for long as I started to smile like an idiot. "I'm so happy you're here!" I said, wrapping my arms around his waist in a hug.

Parker chuckled. "You know, so am I," he said as he placed his free arm around my shoulders and squeezed.

We're a few more steps closer to getting home!

It wasn't long before we reached the entrance of the tunnel.

I gave Parker's waist one last squeeze before letting go and then the three of us made our way into the darkness, leaving the Hidden Village behind.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoO

The ragged mountain pass was ablaze with sunlight and I had to squint my eyes as Parker, Suna and I emerged from the tunnel.

When my vision cleared of sunspots I saw Link standing just off to the side, checking Epona's saddle and reins while Impaz chatted happily with him.

Shad, on the other hand, stood straight ahead in the middle of the pass, the paper with the riddles held up right in front of his face. He was moving the page this way and that, as if the change in the angles of light might reveal something important.

As I walked over I noticed that one of Shad's eyes was visible through a large puncture hole, rapidly darting from side-to-side and up and down. It made me think of a horror movie- when the deranged killer is peeking through a hole, trying to find its victim.

I quickly stepped away from him.

"You look to be all set," Impaz said to Link as he tossed Epona's reins over her head.

"Just about. I need to check Suna's tack and then we'll be on our way," Link smiled, removing the quiver from Epona's saddle and placing it over his shoulders opposite of the Master Sword still on his back. Once it was in place, Link unhooked the Hylian Shield from the leathered seat and slipped his arms through the straps. The sunlight glinted brightly off the polished metal as he moved- and it made me realize something.

"Link, I don't think I can ride with you."

"Why not?" Link and Shad said at the same time; Shad lowering his paper to stare at me.

I blinked, taken aback by their dual tone of confusion. "Well, because if Shad rides with Parker then they'll both be without a shield," I explained.

"Can't you create another giant shield like last time?" Shad inquired.

"I don't know. But I wouldn't count on it," I said with dark honesty.

"Perhaps there's another way we can go," Shad said as he removed a folded piece of paper from his shirt pocket. "One that bypasses the bulblins altogether…" he petered out, opening the map and scanning for a new route. "Ah! What about this? We travel north, just far enough to reach the outskirts of the rain forest, then cut across and head back down- no wait, that won't work… We'd come to close to Hyrule Castle-"

"What are you looking for, Shaddy boy?" Impaz inquired.

Shad's eye twitched. "A way to get safely back to Kakariko Village," he explained. "One that doesn't involve bulb-"

"You all came from Kakariko Village?" Impaz asked, surprised.

I nodded as she looked at me with big eyes. Then she smiled heartily.

"Well, I just so happen to know a secret about Kakariko Village," she claimed gleefully.

"And that would be…?" Shad groaned in exasperation.

"A secret path that connects Kakariko Village with my Hidden Village!"

"Seriously?" I asked.

Impaz nodded. "It was used by the Sheikah hundreds of years ago, when the population first started to split between the two regions. Made things easier for privately trading weapons and information," she said with a wink.

"I don't see anything on the map that indicates a path between here and Kakariko," Shad scoffed.

"Of course you wouldn't!" Impaz exclaimed. "The Sheikah made sure to disguise many different paths on the map when they were designing it."

"I beg your pardon…" Shad blinked. "You think the Sheikah drew the map of Hyrule?"

"Who else would've?" she countered.

"Scholars of cartography!" Shad cried.

"Oh pish," she said, waving a dismissing hand in the air. "Everyone knows that the Sheikah were the first to travel around Hyrule, and the first to document it. Those scholars who put their names on the map were nothing more than a bunch of lazy numskulls who stole Sheikah property!"

A sharp noise filled the air.

… I think it was Shad's brain snapping in half.

"Show me your map, will you?" Impaz said, holding her hand out to Shad.

Unblinkingly, he handed her the map, who then handed it to Link.

"See this line here?" she said, skimming her finger across the surface of the paper. "That's the path you want to take."

"And what exactly makes this route any better than the other?" Shad spat through gritted teeth.

"Well, for one it's safer. Of all the times I've been on that path I've never seen a bulblin-"

"There's always a first," he growled.

"-and two," Impaz continued as if Shad hadn't said anything, "it should cut your travel time by a few hours."

"Let me see," Parker said, handing me Suna's reins before walking over. Link took a step back so Parker could take his place; and after Impaz showed him where the path was he took a moment to study the map. "So these lines, the converging ones that indicate a cliff side, that's where the secret path is?"

Impaz nodded.

Parker looked at the map again. "You're right; it really would cut our travel time if we went this way," he said. "But are you sure there aren't any bulblins lurking about?"

Impaz pursed her lips as she thought. "I suppose it's possible. I haven't actually walked that path in years, now that I think about it."

Parker looked at me.

I shrugged. "It has to be better than a long ass detour, right?"

"True," Parker agreed.

"Secret path it is," Link said, then walked over to check Suna's tack. "So, do you still think you need to ride with Parker?" he asked as he inspected her bridle.

I felt my heart speed up a little. "Well, if Impaz believes the path is safe then it should be fine if he rides with Shad."

"Okay. Great," Link smiled softly, then took Suna's reins and threw them over her head. "Let's get back to the village."

"Okay."

"Suna's ready to go," Link said to Parker, leading her over to him.

"Thanks," Parker said as he took her reins, then quickly climbed into her saddle. Once he was settled he reached out his hand to me.

"Oh, um, I'm actually going to ride with Link."

"You are?" Shad questioned, his sulking anger changing into excitement.

"Yeah," I answered.

"Wonderful! Parker we can commence our deciphering as planned," Shad exclaimed joyfully, straightening his large bag on his shoulders.

The look Parker gave me was sharp.

Sorry, I mouthed, giving him a guilty smile before I turned and walked over to Epona.

Link was already atop her saddle and extended his hand as I approached. Heart thumping, I braced my hand on his forearm before putting my left foot in the stirrup and hoisting myself up.

"Ready?" Link asked from over his shoulder.

"Yes," I nodded, reveling in the amount of space I had on this saddle. I'd forgotten how big it was compared to Suna's small, crampy one. I smiled as the thought of a comfortable ride made me happy- only to immediately feel bad. Parker was stuck sharing that cramped saddle with Shad; the two of them squished up against each other… for however long this trip was going to be…

I took a look around my shoulder to check on Parker, only to see that he was staring right at me. The look in his eyes was almost murderous as Shad kept nudging him forward while trying to settle into the saddle, constantly adjusting and readjusting the large pack on his back.

"Oh boy," I sighed as I turned away.

"What's wrong?" Link asked.

"Well, let's just say if looks could kill, Parker would've murdered me ten times over for allowing Shad to ride with him," I mumbled quietly.

"Oh yeah?" Link said, his voice sounding curious as he shifted to turn around.

"No, don't look!" I whispered. "You'll make it worse."

Link quickly faced forwards. "Is he really that mad about it?"

I sighed again. "He'll get over it, eventually." …But maybe sooner rather than later… I thought as I had an idea. "Hey Link, how would you feel about lending Parker your shield for the ride back?"

"My shield?" Link asked, surprised.

"Yeah. I mean, he probably won't ever have to use it, but if you lent it to him just to be on the safe side…"

And so he won't be annoyed with me anymore…

Link turned his head to look at me and I gave him my best puppy dog eyes.

Link snorted, the corner of his mouth rising. "Fine," he said.

"Thank you!" I smiled with relief as I quickly dismounted Epona. Link removed the shield from his back and handed it down to me. I took it, then turned towards Parker and walked over to him. He looked at me with a mix of suspicion and curiosity as I approached.

"Peace?" I asked as I held out the shield to him.

His dark eyes widened. "Wha… A- are you serious?"

"Mm hmm," I nodded. "You can wear it. Here."

A childish grin grew on his lips as he took the shield from my hands, placing his arms through the straps and adjusting it securely to his back. "Thank you," he said softly, his voice full of appreciation.

I gave him a nod before walking back to Link and Epona. Link offered me his arm again, and I mounted onto the saddle once more.

"Good?" Link asked.

"Good," I answered.

Then he called out, "Everyone ready to go?"

"Settled and ready!" Shad exclaimed.

"Ready," Parker said.

Link nodded then looked at Impaz. "Thank you for all your help."

Impaz grinned wide, causing her eyes to crinkle closed. "It is the job of the Sheikah to aid the Chosen Hero on his journey." (Shad groaned loudly). "There's no thanks needed. Now, the four of you get out of here. Those pieces are not going to find themselves."

Link smiled at her, then turned his head to me and said, "Hold on."

I wrapped my arms around his waist (mentally scolding my heart for speeding up again) and we were off.

"Bye Impaz! I hope you get your packages soon!" I called, waving at the tiny old woman as we sped down the ragged mountain pass, heading in the opposite direction of the way we came.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoO

It didn't take us long to reach the end of the pass; the rocky walls opening to reveal an expanse of open terrain far below a steep cliff side.

Link slowed Epona to a walk before stopping her completely at the edge of the pass. He leaned forward then looked from left to right. "Well, what do you know," he said, sounding impressed.

I was about to ask what he was looking at when he prompted Epona into a walk and I saw for myself.

We stepped out onto a wide path that measured about the width of a two lane highway. The ragged mountain wall lined the path on the right, while an un-barricaded cliff side lined the left.

"Looks like the Sheikah really did hide this path on the map," Parker remarked.

"Not you too!" Shad whined.

I chuckled.

"Parker, will you be comfortable going at a gallop?" Link asked, turning his upper body to look at him.

I turned my head to see Parker nod. "Yeah, I think so."

"Okay. Let's go," Link said, returning forward. Then he whipped Epona's reins and she shot off, galloping swiftly down the path.

After about ten minutes of riding it became evident that there wasn't much to look at. I had the choice of watching the slow passing tree tops of the forests below, or the dizzying rush of the rocky wall above. (I chose the trees as the mountain wall made me feel nauseous).

As I stared out to the sea of dark green, I started to think about the riddles Impaz gave us and wondered if I could find the answers to them too. I mean, how hard could it be, really?

So I began to recite what Impaz said from memory.

The blade that cuts the darkness is purity- no, that's not right…

The blade that cuts the darkness- or is it the blade that calls the darkness? No, no it's cuts- a blade cuts…

Okay, maybe try the next one. The handle that guards the darkness is in chains- No that's not right either…

Dammit…

As it turned out, the riddles were a lot harder than I thought. Especially the remembering-what-they-were part…

I decided to try focusing on the words I could remember rather than the sentences themselves.

Purity, chains, and- and nightmare! I remember nightmare.

Okay, so what could purity mean? The goddesses, maybe…? The purity of prayer…? Where would you go to pray to the gods…? A shrine…? A temple…? A-

Oh!

Could "purity" mean the Temple of Time?

I started to smile at the possibility of deciphering a riddle when my smile fell. If one of the pieces really was hidden at the Temple of Time then that meant that Link and I had to go through the Sacred Grove to get there. And I knew exactly who'd be waiting for us if we did…

A chill went up my spine, making me shiver.

"Are you cold?" I heard Link call from over his shoulder.

I blinked, shocked that he was able to feel my body tremble while Epona's quick movements vibrated underneath us.

"No, I'm not cold," I assured him. "Just an unpleasant thought."

"Anything I should be worried about?" he asked.

I shook my head before realizing that he couldn't see my gesture as his eyes were focused on the path ahead. "No. I was just thinking about the riddles and had this crazy thought about where one could be," I chuckled.

"And where's that?" he asked.

"The Temple of Time," I answered.

Suddenly, I felt Link's body shudder.

I laughed. "I'm guessing you came to the same conclusion I did."

Link looked fully over his shoulder at me, his eyes wide. "Gods above, I hope you're wrong…"

I nodded. "I most likely am. It was just a thought."

Link's eyes softened before he turned his head forward again.

"How about you? Do you have any ideas of what they could mean?" I asked him.

Link shook his head before calling over his shoulder, "I have no idea where to begin with them. I- I'm not the best when it comes to puzzles and riddles."

"That's true," I agreed as I thought back to the Sacred Grove and how I pretty much solved everything.

I saw the corner of Link's mouth pull upwards.

I smiled as I went back to my personal brainstorming, focusing on a new word this time: chains.

The only thing I could think of that could relate to both chains and temples was Death Mountain. The Gorons were miners and- from what I could remember of the Twilight Princess game- they used a lot of metal within their dungeons. I was even pretty sure I remembered one of the bosses having chains around its wrists.

If that was the case, then getting to the temple would be so simple!

I came up with nothing good for "nightmare". Not even the Skull Kid and his nightmarish grin held up well as an answer.

The more wrong answered I came up with, the more focused I became on these three little words. So much so, that I was completely oblivious to the change in terrain until I felt Epona's gait start to slow to a jog.

"I think I know where we are," I heard Link say.

I blinked a few times, erasing the words stamped across my eyes, and looked around.

We were in another mountain pass, surrounded by smooth walls on both sides. The russet colouring of the stone reminded me of the mountain range of Death Mountain.

"Yes, I definitely know where we are," Link said and pulled Epona to a stop; the giant mare snorting hard as she did.

Parker pulled Suna to a stop right next to us.

"We can walk the horses from here," Link said, and lifted his leg over Epona's head before sliding off.

"Where are we?" Parker asked.

"Kakariko Village," Link answered.

"What? Already?" I asked stunned as I looked around again.

Link nodded. "If we keep going straight we'd hit the edge of the upper pass- which is actually a drop-off. We can't get the horses down that way though, as the only way to ground level is to scale some scaffolding connected to the mountain wall."

That's where I train with Nobu!

"But we can take the horses pass the hot springs. We just need to back track a little."

Wow, Impaz was right. That way was a lot faster, and safer…

I started to dismount when Link reached out to me. "Need a hand?"

I shook my head. "I'm okay, thanks. If I'm ever going to learn how to ride a horse then I have to learn how to properly dismount, right?"

"Fair enough," Link said and stepped away.

I placed my left foot into the stirrup then swung my right leg behind me before dropping down with ease.

"Nicely done," Link said.

"Thank you," I said, giving him a sweeping bow. "It is my best- and only- riding skill."

He chuckled then threw Epona's reins over her head.

Once Shad and Parker were dismounted from Suna the four of us went back up the path until we reached an opening in the mountain wall. We walked through and ended up in an area that I didn't recognize. The ground was flat and covered with outcroppings of various sizes. It wasn't until we passed by a particularly large set, and saw a giant hot spring with a barrier through the middle, that I knew exactly where we were.

As we made our descent down the hill from the communal hot spring I looked out to the village, staring in awe as the early evening sun coated everything in a rich amber hue.

Heading towards the stables, it wasn't until we walked by Renado's hut that I noticed we didn't encounter anyone along the road.

Link suggested it was probably dinner time.

Suddenly, my stomach pinched fiercely at the mention of food; and I realized just how long it had been since we last ate. That last thought turned the pinching into a bubbling gurgle- one that was loud enough to have all the boys look my way. My cheeks grew warm as they stared at me; however, from the expressions on their faces it was obvious that they were now just as hungry as I was.

We quickly walked the rest of the way to the stables, and were relieved to find that Luda was there.

"Oh, you're back!" she cried with excitement as she saw us approach. "Did you find it? Did you find where the glaive is?" she inquired as she opened the gate.

"Well yes and no," I said, forgetting to elaborate as my stomach bubbled again.

Luda raised her eyebrows questioningly.

"We were given three riddles," Parker answered. "We need to solve them to find where the three pieces of the glaive are hidden."

"Riddles? Well, that's…bothersome," Luda said.

Parker laughed.

Luda gave him a small smile. "Here, let me take the horses now. They look like they're in need of a good rest."

Link patted Epona's neck. "Make sure they get some sweets tonight, will you? They both did well today."

Luda nodded and took the reins from Link and Parker.

"Luda, when's dinner?" I asked as my mouth filled with saliva at the prospect of food.

"Dinner was served about twenty minutes ago," she said. "If you hurry you should be able to catch the chef before he puts everything away."

And that was all it took for us to turn and race away, booking it as fast as we could back to the inn before our meal was lost forever.

We made it to the inn in record time- even Shad, who managed to keep up with us despite his oversized bag still on his back.

One by one, we plowed through the front doors, then scrambled into the dining hall towards the service window.

I was sure there were a few heads that turned our way as we passed by, but I couldn't be bothered to look as all my concentration was on the trays of food being handed out by an obviously peeved chef.

Link, Shad, Parker and I took our trays to the nearest table, sat down and started unceremoniously shovelling food into our mouths.

The food was cold but still tasty. I was able to recognize some of what I was eating, like the assorted veggies and rice. However, they were mixed with a type of meat that I couldn't quite pin point.

"Thirsty?" a voice said from the head of the table, and I looked up to see Rusl standing there, holding a pitcher and a stack of cups.

We all nodded greedily, our mouths too full to speak.

Rusl filled each of the cups with water and handed them around.

"Bo is on his way to tell Nobu and Zelda that the four of you are back," Rusl said as he refilled Parker's glass.

"No need," Shad said before emptying the contents of his cup in one large gulp. "I'm heading over there now." Then he stood. "Parker, I'd like you to come with me. We need to start our discussion since it couldn't happen during our ride."

I saw Parker's shoulders slump, but he raised his head and nodded at Shad.

"Good," Shad said, then he turned and headed out of the dining room.

Parker took one last sip of water before he stood.

"Your discussion couldn't happen?" I asked Parker as he gathered his and Shad's empty trays.

Parker smirked. "Yeah. I told Shad that the wind was too loud, and that it was pointless to try and talk since I couldn't hear him."

I snorted.

Parker took the trays to the service window then stopped back at the table. "See you at Renado's?"

"Yeah. Be right behind you."

Parker nodded then waved good-bye to Rusl.

"I must be off as well. Nobu has me on patrol," Rusl said, dividing the remaining water between my and Link's glasses.

"Would you like to come with us to Renado's first? Hear what we found before you go?" I asked.

Rusl smiled but shook his head. "Duty takes priority, I am afraid. But Link can tell me all about it when he joins me later."

"Join you?" Link asked.

"Nobu wants you on patrol with me tonight."

Link groaned loudly. "I swear that guy has an enmity against sleep."

I tried to suppress a giggle.

"Do not worry," Rusl said, patting Link on the back. "Join me later and tell me what you found, then head back and rest."

"Really?" Link asked, looking relieved.

Rusl winked. "I will cover for you." Then he turned and exited the dining hall.

"He's so kind," I said after I heard the inn's front doors swing close.

Link nodded in agreement.

"It's uncanny sometimes, how much he reminds me of my dad," I confessed softly.

"He does?" Link asked, his eyes curious as he looked at me.

"It's in the little things mostly, like a comforting word or a small laugh. But I see it the most when Rusl smiles in that gentle way of his. My dad used to smile like that…"

Link didn't say anything but continued to stare at me. I felt my cheeks heat up.

"What?" I asked with a puzzled laugh.

Link blinked a few times before he turned his eyes away from mine. "Nothing," he said quietly as a thin streak of pink started to line the tops of his cheeks. He cleared his throat then said, "My father didn't smile much."

"He didn't?"

"His life didn't turn out the way he wanted," Link said with a shrug. Then he fell silent. A moment passed when I thought he was going to end the conversation there, but then he said, "Sometimes I have these thoughts of what it would be like if we got to live in Ordon together. Protecting the village, teaching the kids how to fight, helping Fado wrangle the goats when they got loose," he chuckled. Then he turned his eyes back to mine. "I like to believe he would've smiled then."

I looked at Link through misty eyes; and without thinking too much, I reached out and took his hand in mine.

"I think you're right to believe that," I said, giving his hand a soft squeeze.

"Thanks," he said quietly, squeezing my hand in return.

We sat in comfortable silence, our hands still joined together- until my brain caught up with what was happening. My heart kicked into overdrive, beating so fast and loud that I knew Link could hear it.

I took a deep breath before I released my hand from his; my heart fluttering lightly as Link seemed reluctant to let go.

(At least, I think he was…)

I cleared my throat. "We should probably head over to Renado's," I suggested. "The sooner Shad talks our ears off about what he thinks the riddles are, the sooner we can leave."

Link chuckled and nodded. "Let's get it over with."

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoO

As it turned out, Shad wasn't in a particularly chatty mood.

When Link and I entered the hut we found him scurrying around the balcony library, pulling books from every shelf and placing them haphazardly onto the tiny desk.

"Apparently he doesn't have enough "concrete data" to confidently start a conversation," Parker said as we approached him.

"What? But I thought he already had some ideas?" I asked, surprised.

"Knowing Shad, he has millions. But he won't speak about them until he's convinced himself they're true," Nobu said as he rose from one of the benches and stood next to us. "Welcome back."

His greeting was amiable.

I didn't trust it.

"Thanks," I said, giving him a cautious smile before he walked away and headed up to the bedrooms- most likely to get Zelda.

"Del! Parker! You're back," Calli said as she emerged from Renado's kitchen, smelling like plants and herbs as she gave me a hug.

"Hey Calli," I said as I returned her hug. "Where's Charlie?" I asked when I didn't see him follow behind her.

"Taking a bath," Calli answered. "He was helping Fado with the goats today."

"He was?"

Calli nodded.

"I wonder if he got to play with the baby goat?" I mused out loud.

Calli shrugged. "So…?" she said, her eyes eager as she looked from me, to Parker, then to Link. "Did you guys find the glaive?"

"Not yet. But we have the clues to find it," Parker said.

Her brows knitted slightly. "Clues?"

"Riddles," I said then held up three fingers. "Three of them that we need to solve."

"Could you recite them to me?" Zelda's clear voice asked as she and Nobu descended the stairs.

Parker answered for us:

"The blade that cuts the darkness is bathed in purity's care;

"The handle that calls the darkness is wrapped in chains of judgement fair;

"The guard that sees the darkness is lost within a nightmare."

Zelda paused in front of us, placing a delicate hand under her chin as she thought. "And you are sure the wording is correct?" she asked Parker.

"Yes, I'm sure."

"Hmm," she voiced before stepping away and walking up the balcony staircase.

Shad's shuffling stopped abruptly as he watched the princess scan the shelves of books, pick one up and flip through the pages. "No, not this one," she said as she closed the book and placed it back on the shelf.

"Your Highness? Try these," Shad said and handed her a few loose pages of paper.

"Thank you," Zelda smiled as she took the pages and started reading.

"Del, Parker, Calli, the three of you can head back to the inn," Nobu said. "I don't expect there to be much going on tonight."

I looked back up to Shad and Zelda- both of them silently engrossed within the pages they were reading.

"Yeah, sounds good," I said, relieved to be leaving. I wanted more than anything for Parker to tell me what he knew about the riddles.

Nobu turned to Link. "Link, I want you on patrol with Rusl. He's front look-out tonight."

Link didn't say anything and just nodded; clearly still annoyed at having to patrol despite Rusl's offer.

"I'm actually going to head back to the kitchen," Calli said. "I still have some herbs I want to chop." Then she turned to walk away.

"Wait, Calli," I called, causing her to stop. "Come back to the inn with us. We'd really like to tell you and Charlie everything that happened while we were gone," I said with a gossipy tone; however, my eyes told her that what we had to tell her was important.

Calli looked at me for a second then nodded in understanding. "Sure, okay. I'll come back," she smiled. "I'm just going to clean up the kitchen first. Meet you there?"

"Yeah. Our room," I said.

"Okay," and she headed into the kitchen.

"I'll meet you there too," Parker said. "I want to check something from the library."

I raised my eyebrows at him. "You're not going to let Shad trap you up there with him, right?"

Parker shook his head.

"Alright. See you in a bit," I said then headed towards the back doors.

"I'll walk out with you," Link said, joining me.

As we exited the hut Nobu called my name. I turned to see him standing in the doorway, holding a vial in his hand.

"I almost forgot to give you this," he said as he handed me the small bottle filled with liquid sunlight.

"A sun potion?" I asked.

"What else would it be?" he said, raising an eyebrow that disappeared under his helmet.

"You still want to train me tomorrow?" I questioned, becoming a little wary of this situation.

"Of course," he voiced, sounding puzzled. "Why wouldn't I?"

"Uh, no reason," I said as I thought back to this morning and to the look he gave me after I silenced him. I thought I'd be punished for sure and he wouldn't train me for a few days- or worse, decide never to train me again…

But as I looked at him his expression didn't give off any warning signs about possible punishment. I started to think my wariness was unfounded, being nothing more than apprehension based on assumptions.

"Okay. I'll see you at sunrise," he said.

"Okay," I nodded.

Then Nobu did something that made my gut fill with ice. He smiled.

I stood frozen as I watched him and his crooked smile walk back into the hut, the door closing shut behind him.

Link let out a low whistle.

"He's going to kill me, isn't he," I said as my eyes found Link's.

He gave me a pitying look.

"Oh god…" I groaned, my shoulders slumping. Then I turned and started walking towards the inn.

"I'll see you tomorrow," Link said to my back.

I lifted my hand in acknowledgement, then sighed under my breath, "If I'm still alive…"

I heard Link chuckle.

I stopped and turned back to face him, still shocked and impressed at the range of his hearing. Then I laughed too. "See you tomorrow," I said, and continued back towards the inn, listening to Link's receding footsteps as he headed in the opposite direction.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoO

I ran into Charlie on my way to the bedrooms. He was coming out of the bathroom- all pink skinned and towel dried hair- when I saw him. I motioned for him to follow me and the two of us walked up to my room.

After I closed the door behind us I told him about the riddles and how Parker thinks he knows the answers to them already.

Charlie's eyes lit up at the good news.

We took a seat on my bed as we waited for the others to arrive; and no more than ten minutes later Parker and Calli walked through the door.

"So…?" I inquired impatiently as Parker and Calli sat down on her bed.

"Just a sec," Parker replied. "I want to write them down so we have a copy we can all read." He took out a folded piece of paper and writing utensil from his pants pocket and quickly scribbled across the page.

"Can I see?" Charlie asked, holding out his hand. Parker gave him the paper and he took a moment to read it. His brows narrowed. "The blade that cuts the darkness is bathed in purity's care. What does that mean?"

Parker smiled. "I think it's referring to the Water Temple."

"The Water Temple?" I questioned, taking a look at the first riddle. "How'd you get that?"

Parker reached across for the paper and took it back. "Well, the word bathed is pretty straightforward, but it doesn't offer much as to what the blade is actually bathed in. It could be anything really: sunlight, water, lava, shadows, or even clouds."

"Clouds?" Charlie asked, raising a skeptical eyebrow.

"There's a temple that floats in the sky in the Twilight Princess game," I told him.

Parker nodded.

"Ah."

"The word that actually gives us our answer is purity," Parker continued. "And what substance has always been considered to be a symbol of purity?" he asked.

"Water," Calli answered quickly.

I blinked at her, impressed.

"Precisely," Parker smiled.

"That makes sense, you know," Calli said. "Renado is always talking about the "purity of water" when we're making potions."

Parker smiled as if Calli's remark just validated his reasoning. Then he looked at me. "Del? What large body of water can be found in Hyrule?"

A smile grew on my lips. "Lake Hylia," I answered.

"Right! And that helps solve the part about purity's care. You see, I think purity is actually supposed to be capitalized. And if we capitalize the word then-"

"It becomes a who and not a what," I stated.

"Right again! And what beings are believed to embody pureness?"

"The goddesses," I grinned.

"Exactly! But more specifically: the Goddess Hylia. You see, bathed in Purity's care refers to the blade's submersion under the lake that was named after the goddess," Parker beamed.

"Oh my god!" I exclaimed, my heart feeling light with excitement. "Parker that's… that's incredible! The Water Temple… Oh-" then my heart sank. "- son of a bitch…"

"What is it?" Calli asked, concerned.

I looked at Parker with dejected eyes.

"Out of all the temples in the games, the Water Temple is the most… tedious," Parker answered.

"How come?"

Parker chuckled. "There's just a lot of back and forth between floors and rooms-"

"Lowering the water level, raising the water level, lowering it again just to get to that one room with nothing but a rupee in it…" I said sullenly.

"What's a rupee?" Charlie asked.

I suppressed a groan. "Parker, you said you knew the answers to the other riddles?" I questioned, hoping that the other two won't be as bothersome as the Water Temple.

"I know what the second one is," he said. "The handle that calls the darkness is wrapped in chains of judgement fair" is referring to Arbiter's Grounds."

"Really?" I asked as my excitement peaked again.

"Yup," he confirmed, giving me a prideful smile. "It was actually pretty easy to figure out. Judgement fair is talking about the sentencing of the prisoners, and chains are the prison cells, or maybe even literal chains, that the prisoners were put in."

"Wow, okay. Arbiter's Grounds is the second temple," I said in awe. "And the third?"

Parker looked at the paper in his hand then scratched his head. "Honestly… I'm not too sure about this one. It's giving me some problems."

I nodded. "I was having trouble with it too."

"You were trying to solve them?" he asked, interested.

"Yeah, but I couldn't remember how they went. I did remember a few words though, and nightmare was one of them. I thought maybe it had something to do with the Skull Kid, but it didn't make much sense. And, it just didn't feel… right," I said truthfully.

"What's the line?" Calli asked.

"The guard that sees the darkness is lost within a nightmare," Parker recited.

She wrinkled her nose. "Sounds kinda scary."

"Any ideas?" Parker asked.

Calli blinked at him. "Are you serious? I don't know anything about this world. Not. A. Thing." Then she giggled. "Hell, it wasn't until we came here that I realized Link's name isn't actually Zelda."

I laughed hard at that.

"Alright, alright. Sorry I asked," Parker said with an amused shake of his head. Then he sighed. "Guess I'll have to hit the books."

"Well, two riddles out of three is pretty impressive, man," Charlie said.

The corner of Parker's mouth rose. "Thanks."

"And we have time before we really need to solve it," I said. "Remember, Link and I need to complete the first two temples before getting to the third."

"That's true."

"So, you'll be going to these temples then?" Calli asked as a mix of curiosity and concern bloomed in her eyes.

"Yeah," I nodded. "Have to actually, since I'm the only one who can touch the glaive pieces. At least, that's what Impaz said."

"What do you mean?" Charlie questioned with mild apprehension.

For the rest of the evening Parker and I recounted everything that we learned while we were at the Hidden Village. We told them about the journey and the bulblins; about Impaz and the Sheikah; and about the glaive and its lore. By the time Parker and I were done it was late into the night.

Suddenly, Calli yawned widely, setting off a chain reaction with the rest of us. We all decided it was a good time for bed.

Parker and Charlie left our room; then Calli and I got changed before heading down to the bathroom.

Once we were back upstairs Calli fell asleep almost instantly.

I didn't. I sat on my bed as I stared at the luminous potion on top of the bedside table.

I was having an internal debate. Do I drink the potion and meet my death with dignity? Or not drink the potion and live to see the day?

I almost decided not to drink it, choosing life over death, when I remembered that Nobu knows what room I'm in; and if he really wanted me to train, nothing would stop him from marching up here, grabbing me by the foot and dragging me all the way to the training area.

I swallowed the lump in my throat before I swallowed the contents of the vial.

I laid down and closed my eyes, praying that everything will be fine tomorrow- that this trepidation taking over my body was nothing more than a reaction to my imagination running wild.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoO

As the sun started to rise so did I.

I hopped out of bed, quickly changed into my Hylian clothes, and pulled on my boots before scrambling out of the room.

The last thing I wanted was to be late for training- and I shuddered to think what would happen if I was.

I ran down the first flight of stairs two at a time (not caring about the noise I was making) and plowed into the bathroom. I only allowed myself to use the toilet; and was out of the room and stomping down the remaining stairs in record time.

I widened my eyes as I looked around the ember-lit atrium, but I didn't see Nobu anywhere. I jogged to the doors and exited the inn, not seeing him outside either. Maybe I was actually early?

I thought about waiting here for him, but then something in the pit of my stomach told me that that was a bad idea. I quickly ignited my magic, making a source of light, then walked down the ramp and headed to our training spot.

As I made my way through the village that something-in-the-pit-of-my-stomach turned into a nagging feeling, telling me I should get there faster.

I ran. I ran the whole way there; almost in complete darkness as the light of my magic swished rapidly back and forth as I swung my arms hard.

When I got to our training spot beads of sweat were rolling down my spine and across my brow; my untied hair sticking to the back of my neck in dark tangles.

Chest heaving, I spotted Nobu standing in the middle of the lamp-lit area with his hands behind his back and that crooked smile still on his lips.

My overheated body turned cold as I looked at that smile.

"You're late," he remarked.

"I am?" I panted, confused. I looked up at the sky and saw that the colours of dawn hadn't changed shades since I left the inn. "How?"

"The sun's peak crested the horizon two minutes ago," he replied casually.

My mouth dropped open. "Two minutes? You're calling me late because of two minutes?"

"If you'd like to continue training with me then I need you to be on time, Del."

"On time? There's never been an "on time"! We meet at the inn and we come here together- at the same time!" I stated. "It's not my fault you didn't show up to get me."

"I'm not your caretaker, Del. I shouldn't have to hold your hand," he said in a patronizing manner.

I don't think I've ever wanted to punch someone as much as I wanted to punch Nobu right now.

"Let's start, shall we?" he said lightly, clapping his hands together then walking towards the back wall.

My mouth suddenly went dry. "Am I learning anything new today?" I asked cautiously.

Nobu stopped to look back at me, the shadows cast from the oil lamps morphing his crooked, awkward smile into something eerie. "There's something I need you to do first," he said. "Climb to the top of the scaffolding."

"Seriously?" I questioned with a laugh.

"Climb the scaffolding," he repeated.

A shiver crawled down my back- and it wasn't from the cool morning air drying my skin.

But I did as he asked and walked over to the wooden structure, examining the netted ropes. Some were frayed pretty badly, and a few were snapped in half. However, the majority of the net was intact and I moved forward, wrapping my hands around the thick cords.

I pulled myself up a rung and immediately felt my weight shift backwards. The netting was so loose that I couldn't find balance.

I stepped back onto the ground and looked at Nobu, slightly abashed.

He stared at me, his eyes expectant.

"… I'll try again," I mumbled. I place my hands back on the rungs and pulled at the net, testing its tension, when I noticed something. To my left was the middle support beam, and the netting that fell in front of that beam was fastened to the wood.

I walked over to it, checked that the ropes were safely intact, then started climbing.

The rungs kept their integrity as I scaled the netting, and soon I was standing at the top.

I stood for a moment, catching my breath, then called to Nobu. "What now?"

"Come back down," he said.

"Come back down? There isn't anything you want me to do up here?" I questioned.

I watched as Nobu shook his un-helmeted head.

Perplexed, I started my descent. It took me a bit longer to get down as I constantly had to check my footing, but eventually my feet hit solid ground.

"Again," Nobu said.

"Again? Again what?" I questioned, turning to face him.

"Climb the scaffolding again," he said.

My eyes widened in disbelief. "You're joking, right?"

"Climb," he repeated.

That shiver came back and I realized why. His voice may sound light and casual, but in the undercurrent of his tone there was a warning.

I nodded slowly, afraid of what would happen if I said no.

I climbed to the top of the scaffolding only to have Nobu motion for me to come back down. When I did, my hands were stinging slightly from the ropes.

Pushing the soreness aside, I was about to ask about my training lesson when Nobu cut me off.

"Again," he said.

"Again?" I cried as anger swiftly replaced my fear.

"Again," he repeated.

I felt myself pale as the fear came rushing back.

That warning was now a full blown threat- and it wasn't something I wanted to see come to fruition.

So I climbed again- only to be told to do it once more.

Again, and again, and again, and again I scaled that net. I scaled that net so many times that I eventually lost count.

When I reached what had to be my tenth climb, my arms and legs were on fire- charred so thoroughly that they were ready to disintegrate into ash. My chest heaved with difficulty as the morning-crisp air scorched my lungs; my fingers and palms so inflamed and rubbed raw that I had trouble gripping the coarse rope.

Reaching the top, I stiffly pulled myself up the last rung then rolled painfully onto the flat ground.

I stared at the starless sky as I laid on my back, covered in sweat and trying to catch my breath.

"Del, come on down," I heard Nobu call.

I whipped my head from side to side. I had enough. I was done. I didn't care about his undefined threat, or my fear of it.

"No!" I rasped as loud as I could. "I- I know how to get back to the village from here. If you make me climb this fucking thing one more time, I swear I'll leave!"

"And risk putting your future training in jeopardy?" Nobu tsked.

My eyes glazed over as I whimpered. He had me.

I took a few deep breaths before I slowly sat up, grunting in the process. I scooted across the ground on my rear, stopping at the edge of the scaffolding. Then I painstakingly lowered myself onto the netting and made my way down.

Once my feet touched home I crumpled to my knees. I closed my eyes, trying to focus on breathing through my nose when I heard the slosh of water. I looked up to see Nobu holding a canteen.

I swiped it from his hand and drank greedily, draining the container within seconds.

With the water now in my system I felt a small amount of energy flow through me. Using it, I reached up and grabbed the net, hoisting myself to my feet. Then I lifted my leg and placed my foot onto a rung.

"What are you doing?" Nobu asked.

"Climbing," I hissed through gritted teeth.

"We're done with that now," he remarked, then drew a wooden sword he had placed at his hip. He tossed it to me and it clattered to the ground as it slipped through my numb fingers.

I picked it up then stared at him. "You can't be serious? You want me to spar with you after what you just put me through?"

"There's no such thing as rest when in battle," he said then struck me, hitting my wrist hard and sending my practice sword flying.

"What the hell, Nobu?" I yelled, my wrist smarting.

"Pick it up," he ordered.

I shook my head. "This isn't training, this is torture!"

His awful smile returned. "Pick it up," he repeated.

Rage and dread mix inside me as I retrieved the sword. Picking it up, I held it as steady as I could in both hands while my arms shook from exhaustion.

Then he came at me.

I managed to block one strike but lost the sword on the second, the piece of wood sailing in an arc through the air before crashing to the ground once again.

Nobu raised his training sword high and I scrambled away, running to reclaim mine.

The moment I grabbed it it was knocked out of my weakened hands once more.

I looked up at Nobu with wide eyes; and then the next thing I knew I was looking up at the pale blue sky.

My entire body shook with pain and exertion as I laid on my back; my breathing coming out in sharp puffs.

"Now, would you like to apologize?" Nobu said, his face appearing above mine.

"Wha… what?" I rasped, thoroughly confused.

Nobu didn't repeat himself. He just continued to stare at me with expectant eyes.

"A- apologize…? You're the one who-" but I stopped as something clicked in my mind. "Wait, you want me to apologize for telling you off yesterday?" I cried in disbelief.

Nobu remained silent, waiting.

"Oh my god…" I whispered. Then I started to laugh in complete and utter defeat. "Okay, fine… Nobu, I'm sorry for the way I talked to you yesterday. It was very rude of me to do so," I wheezed.

Nobu gave me a curt, satisfied nod. "Apology accepted," he said then held a small, red-filled vial over my face.

I took the vial and uncorked it. "So, am I to consider this to be your apology?" I asked, giving him a smug smile before downing the Red Chu jelly and letting it heal my beaten body.

Nobu frowned.

"It's nice to see you looking normal again," I snickered as I sat up. "Promise me something? Don't ever smile again- please."

Nobu sighed as he offered me a hand. "Head back to the inn. I'm sure breakfast will be served soon," he said, pulling me to my feet.

I nodded then made my way back to the village- walking a little faster than normal.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoO

As I headed down the village road I saw Telma and Link walking towards the inn. My heart sped up a little as I watched him say something to Telma, making her laugh.

Then he paused and turned his head, spotting me.

My heart went from ten to one hundred as my eyes locked with his.

The two of them stopped to wait for me; and judging by the stunned expression on both their faces, I must have looked pretty bad.

"What happened to you, sweets?" Telma asked as the three of us walked up the ramp.

"Training with Nobu," I fibbed as we walked through the front doors. "It was an intense one today."

"That man…," Telma groaned with a shake of her head. "Del, I want you to go on upstairs and change, then bring me those clothes so I can wash them."

I nodded with a smile then veered off to the staircase.

"Del?" I heard Link call and I turned to see him behind me. "What did Nobu do to you?" he asked quietly.

I wanted to get out of my damp clothes immediately, so I motioned for Link to follow me up the stairs. He did, and I told him everything that happened, and why it happened, as we walked up to the third floor.

"You're kidding?" he asked as we reached my room.

I shook my head.

"That's insane!" he cried, eyes wide. "I… I'm going to say something to him."

"No, please don't! Everything is fine," I assured him.

"You sure?" he questioned, raising an eyebrow.

I chuckled. "Yes, I'm very sure. Now, wait here while I quickly change." And I entered my empty room and closed the door.

"I knew Nobu was one for punishments, but I never thought he'd be that harsh," Link said, his voice slightly muffled.

"I think he gave me special treatment because I'm an "interloper"," I said as I gathered my orange yoga top, black shorts, and running shoes from the ground.

I heard Link laugh. Then his voice turned soft. "You're okay though, right?"

"I am now," I said, pulling off my boots and struggling out of my pants. "I won't lie and say I was okay at the beginning- because I definitely wasn't- but I'm okay now. Really."

"Alright," he said, then fell silent.

I quickly finished undressing as I shucked my shirt over my head; then I slipped into my workout gear before I gathered my damp hair into a messy bun atop my head.

I placed my dirty Hylian clothes inside my toiletries basket then grabbed a clean towel from the dresser. I was going to the hot springs to wash right after breakfast!

I stepped back into the hall and Link and I made our way down to the dining room.

As the two of us walked towards the service window Telma intercepted me, asking for my clothes. I gratefully handed them over, making sure to give her the driest part.

Then Link and I went to stand in line and waited for our food.

Once we got our trays I walked over to my friends (who were already eating) and I sat down next to Parker. I quickly turned to place my basket on the ground, and when I turned back Link was sitting next to me.

"You don't mind if I sit here?" he asked me quietly.

"Of course not," I said, trying to stop a stupid grin from forming on my lips.

Link smiled, then started to eat his food.

I took a moment to look at my breakfast. We were given a bowl of assorted Hyrulean berries and something that looked like a hash. I took a bite and immediately felt my insides warm with happiness. It was wonderful.

"Del, how come you're wearing your clothes from home?" Calli asked me.

I looked up from my meal. "Training with Nobu. It was more intense than the others," I fibbed again.

"Gotcha," Calli said in understanding, then went back to eating.

I felt Link's eyes on me and I turned to look at him. He raised an eyebrow in question.

I gave him a small smile before turning my head back to my breakfast. Then I whispered under my breath, "There's no point in making them worry over nothing." I slid my eyes to the side and saw Link nod.

"Would you like some tea?" I asked him normally as I reached for the teapot.

"Please," he said and I poured him and myself a cup.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoO

After I was done with breakfast I made my way to the hot spring to bathe. As I came upon the large pool of emerald green water, I was happy to see that both sides were unoccupied. There was no way I was making my way up to Rux's spring today. Just the thought of climbing that incline made my limbs ache.

I took a three-sixty look at my surroundings before throwing caution to the wind and stripping out of my clothes. Then I cannonballed into the water.

I remained submerged for a moment, allowing the warm liquid to work its magic as it lifted the dirt and sweat from my hair and skin. Once I resurfaced I swam back to the edge, grabbed my bathing products and started washing my body and hair. I took my time, thoroughly scrubbing myself down until I finally felt clean and refreshed.

Deciding I was done- and not wanting the probability of running into anyone while I was naked to get any higher- I pulled myself out of the hot spring.

I quickly grabbed my towel and stood behind a large boulder as I dried off and re-dressed. Then I gathered my long hair over my shoulder and ran my fingers through the tangles before plaiting it into a loose braid.

As I was packing my things I started to hear the echoing sound of hooves fill the air. It wasn't until I was making my way down the hill that I saw where it was coming from:

Link was walking a fully equipped Epona- and was heading my way.

My heart sped up again.

"Are you going somewhere?" I called as I stepped back onto the village road and approached them.

"No," he smiled as he stopped in front of me. Epona, on the other hand, kept going and bumped her head into my chest, pushing me back a step. I chuckled, scratching under her neck as Link continued. "I just thought that since Zelda won't be training you today, you might like-"

"Zelda's not training me today?" I questioned, surprised.

Link's smile faltered slightly. "Oh, uh well she's still helping Shad and Parker with researching the riddles. But I'm sure she'll train with you if you asked," he said.

I shook my head. "Actually, I'm happy for the break. Magic training gets pretty exhausting."

"I can imagine," Link said, his smile growing once more.

My heart thumped as I smiled back. "So, what were you going to say before I interrupted you?"

Link stroked Epona's nose. "I just thought that maybe you'd want to learn how to ride?"

"Really? Oh my god, that'd be great!" I said, my response coming out a little too bubbly. I cleared my throat, trying to suppress the heat creeping across my cheeks. "Uh, I'm going to quickly put my basket away. Be right back."

Link nodded.

I jogged to the ramp and into the inn, then bounded up the stairs two at a time, raced down the hall, opened my bedroom door and tossed the basket onto the floor before sprinting all the way back to the front entrance. I paused for a minute to catch my breath, then walked outside once more.

"Good to go?" Link asked as I approached.

"Yup."

"Alright. Hop on up," he said, motioning to the saddle.

I reached up and grabbed the pommel and back ridge of the seat. Then I placed my left foot in the stirrup and pushed off the ground, swinging my right leg over and sitting atop the saddle. The leather seat was cool under my bare legs, and I exhaled contently as it felt nice against my heated skin.

I smiled down at Link.

"Good," he said.

I raised my eyebrows. "Good? Are you nuts? That mount was fantastic," I said with theatrical pride, flipping my braid over my shoulder for dramatic effect.

"You think that was fantastic?" he questioned, raising an eyebrow of his own. He patted Epona's side and said, "Stay put, girl." Then he walked away.

I swiveled in the saddle as Link made his way behind us. Curious, I watched as he walked quite a ways before stopping abruptly and turning back to face us. Eyes filled with concentration, he took a deep breath then started to sprint towards Epona, putting on a burst of speed before vaulting over her rump and landing just behind the saddle's ridge.

He gave me a wide smile.

"I'm not sure whether I should be impressed or whether I should push you off the horse," I said, my eyes round.

Link looked thoughtful for a moment. "Well, I'd like to avoid a possible back injury, so being impressed is appreciated."

I laughed, shaking my head. "Fine, impressed it is. Now will you stop showing off and teach me how to ride?"

Link sighed dramatically. "You really know how to deflate a guy's ego, don't you?"

"It's a gift," I shrugged.

He laughed, then said, "Alright, shift forward so I can sit behind you."

I did as he asked and moved, giving him plenty of room as he settled into the saddle.

"Okay, you can sit back now," he said.

"You sure?" I asked, my face heating up.

"You won't be comfortable sitting that far up," he replied.

"Right," I agreed and slid back slowly. I stopped after a few inches, ready to readjust, when I felt Link place his hands on my hips. I froze as he pulled me further, tingles shooting over my body as my back became flush with his chest.

"Is this good?" he asked, his voice soft and very close to my ear.

I nodded, not trusting my voice at the moment.

"Okay." Then he let go of my hips and reached around me, picking up the reins. "Your first lesson will be on how to use the reins."

I almost snorted. Reins were a no-brainer. You flicked them to go and pulled them to stop. Easy-peasy!

"When you're holding the reins," Link continued, "you want to make sure your hands are at equal lengths on each side; otherwise, the horse will start to veer in the direction of the higher positioned hand. Next, you want the balance between your tension and slack to be even. That way you can maintain control over the horse with the least amount of discomfort for the both of you. Does that make sense?"

"Um…" I voiced as my answer.

…so much for easy-peasy…

"Place your hands here," Link advised as he held up the reins for me to take.

I put my hands above his and he let go. Then he took my elbows and set them to my side.

"You want your elbows to sit in their natural position, or else your arms will tire fast."

"Gotcha," I said as that made sense.

"Now, I want you to find your tension and slack. The easiest way is to test for the tension first. To do that, pull your elbows back so that your wrists become adjacent to your hip bones; all the while making sure the reins tighten enough to tug at the bit."

"Okay," I said and pulled my elbows back. When the bit didn't move Link told me to adjust my hand placement. I slid my hands up about an inch and tried again. This time it was better, but still not enough. One more half inch upwards and I found the right tension for my arm length.

"Perfect. Now when you set your elbows back to your side you'll have the right amount of slack."

I did and saw what he meant as the reins on either side curved downwards, leaving enough length for Epona's head to move without restriction.

Feeling confident, I was ready to continue. "So, what's lesson two?" I questioned excitedly.

"Riding cues," Link answered. "To get Epona to walk, tap her lightly with your heels."

"Tap with heels. Got it. What's next?"

"Get her to walk," Link chuckled.

"Oh," I mumbled, mentally slapping myself. "Okay, here we go." And I tapped my heels once on Epona's sides.

Her muzzle rose into the air before coming back down with a shake (proving that my slack was at the proper length). Then she started to walk.

"Good. Now I want you to direct her towards the mountain pass," Link said over my shoulder.

I nodded as I pulled slightly on the left-side rein. Epona followed my command and veered to the left before straightening out as I equalized the lengths.

"Nicely done," Link said as he placed his hands back on my hips.

"Thanks," I said, ignoring the blush that returned to my cheeks. "So, what other cues do I need to know?"

"We'll get to those when we're out in the field."

I looked at him from over my shoulder. "The field? You mean we're leaving the village?"

"We are," he stated. "The village isn't suitable for learning to ride. We need wide and open terrain."

"Are you sure it's safe?" I questioned as I turned my head forward. "Because I don't want our riding to attract something dangerous."

His voice was low as he said, "It's true that we're taking a risk. But with the current state of Hyrule…" I felt him shrug, "you can consider everything to be a risk."

"So basically, "live for today because tomorrow may never come"," I quoted.

"Basically," he agreed with a small laugh. "We just need to be vigilant, that's all."

"Okay," I nodded, trusting his judgment.

It wasn't long before the end of the mountain pass was in sight; the wide expanse of the South Field visible just beyond the barrier.

I found myself eager to get out there; and just as I was about to ask Link what Epona's jogging cue was, a voice called from above.

"Hey you two, where you off to?"

I looked up to see Ashei gazing down at us from the right-side lookout.

"Just going for a ride, Ashei," Link answered.

She crossed her arms. "Well, don't do anything stupid while you're out there, yeah?" and she smiled.

"Alright," Link said in amusement as we continued towards the barrier.

"Ashei, who are you talking to?" another voice called. I looked over to see Malon and Ilia appear on the left-side lookout. Malon blinked as she stared down at us. "Link, what are you doing?" she asked, surprised

I felt Link inhale deeply before he answered. "I'm teaching Del how to ride."

"Oh," she said, looking at me with hardened eyes as she started trailing us from the upper edge. "How generous of you."

I pursed my lips. She made it sound like I was Link's charity case.

"I can help if you like?" Malon offered, giving Link a sweet smile. "Teaching someone how to ride can be very taxing," then she looked back at me, "especially if they don't know anything."

My eyes narrowed.

Why do I get the feeling she's insulting my intelligence and not my lack of riding skills…

"I'm sure I can manage," Link said.

"But-" Malon stopped talking as Ilia grabbed her hand, halting her in her tracks.

"Be safe you two," Ilia called down.

"We will," I called back, turning to look over my shoulder and watching as she and a red-faced Malon disappeared behind the barrier.

Link sighed quietly then said, "Alright, I want you to direct Epona across the bridge. Once we're on the other side I'll teach you the cues for jogging and galloping."

"You sure I'll be able to understand them?" I whispered with mock uncertainty. "I mean, I do still have trouble with my rights and lefts…" I said, lifting my left arm then my right.

Link snorted. "She wasn't very subtle, was she?"

I shook my head. "I think her eyes actually burned the word "stupid" across my forehead."

I felt Link shift sideways in the saddle before I felt his hand on my chin. He turned my head towards him and my cheeks blazed red-hot as he stared at my face.

"Yup, you're right. It does say "stupid" across your forehead," he confirmed with surprised eyes.

I jabbed his side lightly with my elbow and he snickered, releasing my chin.

"Jerk," I smiled as I turned forward and steered Epona towards the bridge.

After we crossed Link said, "To get Epona to jog, you need to double tap her sides with your heels."

"Okay, one tap for walking and two for jogging," I reiterated. "And to get her to gallop?"

"You whip the reins," he answered. "You'll want to use some force when you do it so that she can feel the reins touch her shoulders; but not so hard that the leather snaps her skin."

"Will it hurt her if I do it wrong?" I asked, concerned.

"No. But I know it's not a pleasant feeling for her, so I try not to let it happen."

I nodded.

"Ready to start jogging?" Link asked.

"Yeah," I said as I tightened my grip on the reins. Then I double tapped Epona's sides and she set off into a jog. It was a smooth transition but I still found myself pressing my knees into the saddle for security.

"Great," Link said. "We'll stay at this pace for a few minutes to warm her up."

As we jogged I went over all of Link's instructions in my head; and before long Link was telling me it was time to start galloping.

I took a deep, steadying breath, pressed my knees in a little tighter, and then whipped the reins.

Epona continued to jog.

I heard Link chuckle over my shoulder. "You need to do it a little harder."

"Okay." Praying that I wouldn't hurt her accidentally, I whipped the reins with more force.

Epona responded quickly and shot into a gallop.

"Very good!" Link yelled over the wind.

I smiled, exhilarated as the warm air turned into a jet stream of cold as we flew over the field.

Again, we kept her at her current pace, galloping swiftly across the golden hued grass until Link called over my shoulder to instruct me on how to slow her down.

"To slow her back to a jog, start applying tension to the reins. When her gait has changed, slacken them."

Moving my elbows backwards, I slowly pulled at the reins until they became taught. Then I pulled back some more, tugging at the bit and causing Epona's head to move slightly towards her chest. Her speed started to lessen, and soon she was jogging again.

"You're doing great," he praised.

I turned my head and beamed at him. "It's not as difficult as I was expecting," I said honestly.

"Good," he smiled. "Now, slowing her back to a walk, or to a stop, is exactly the same as from a gallop to a jog. Pull at the reins until she's walking, then keep pulling until she stops."

I did as I was told and slowed Epona to a walk before tugging the reins a final time, causing her to stop.

"That was awesome!" I laughed.

"I'm glad you're enjoying it."

I nodded then looked back at him. "We're not on some sort of time limit out here, are we? Because I'd like to practice some more- if that's okay with you?"

"Take all the time you need."

Smiling, I returned forward and readjusted my grip on the reins. "Hold on," I said then double tapped Epona's sides, setting her straight into a jog.

For about half an hour I practiced Epona's riding cues: jogging her before slowing her to a walk, then whipping the reins for a full on gallop.

Link allowed me to do my own thing, but gave me pointers every now and then to better my developing riding skills.

I pulled on the reins to make her stop once more, and was just about to get her to gallop from a standstill, when her head shook from side-to-side with a hard snort.

I smiled softly and gave her neck a pat. "Alright, girl. I get it. I'm done."

"You are?" Link asked.

"Yeah, I think it's time to stop. I'm actually feeling pretty good with my riding," I said confidently. Then I whispered over my shoulder, "Besides, I think Epona's getting a little annoyed with all the gait changing."

"If you're sure; because she is trained to listen to her rider, you know," he said, sounding a little annoyed himself at his horse's behaviour.

I chuckled. "She'll listen to you, maybe. But I'm a softy and won't push her anymore. Right, girl?" I cooed.

Her only response was to dip her head to the ground, causing me to pitch forward as I still held onto the reins.

Link's hands quickly moved to my waist, steadying me.

"Epona!" he chastised as the copper horse started to eat the grass.

"Guess we're waiting till she's done?" I suggested.

"Guess so," Link sighed. He let go of my waist then dismounted.

I followed suit, landing right beside him.

Link took a few steps away from Epona then sat on the ground, splaying his legs in front of him before leaning back onto his hands and closing his eyes.

I walked over and sat next to him, crossing my legs. Smiling, I copied Link and leaned back on my hands; then I looked at him.

At first I thought he was resting- laughing internally at his capability to sleep anywhere- when I noticed that his head was moving slightly; deliberately.

… He was listening for danger.

Awed, I continued to look at him, taking a quick moment to trace the features of his face: the straight bridge of his nose; his lean, rounded chin; the lines and curves of his mouth—

"You okay?" Link asked suddenly, cracking open an eye.

I whipped my head away. "Yeah, why?" I asked casually as I stared ahead, focusing hard on the distant outline that was Kakariko Bridge.

"You haven't said anything in a while," he remarked.

"Ha ha, very funny," I said with a roll of my eyes. However, I couldn't stop the smile growing on my lips.

Link chuckled and then the two of us became quiet again.

It was surprisingly peaceful out here, listening to the bugs buzzing through the dried grass while the balmy afternoon sun warmed my skin. My eyes started to wander around the landscape: following the flat line of the horizon; spiking up and down along the ridges of the mountain range; dipping into the darkness of the gorge; then moving to the hidden barrier of the village and up to the invisible lookouts.

"Hey, Link? Why was Malon at the lookout?" I asked, curious.

"Keeping an eye out for Talon," he answered. "She worries about him when he leaves the village."

"He left the village?"

Link nodded. "Yeah, yesterday, before we got back."

"Oh. Does he leave often?"

"No, but he does leave more than most."

"To do what?"

Link shrugged. "I've actually never asked. But if I had to guess, I think he goes to visit his ranch. According to Malon, that place is his life."

I looked back to the top of the hidden barrier. "She must be so worried about him," I said, surprising myself by feeling slightly sorry for her.

"Mm hmm," Link voiced, sounding indifferent.

I shook my head.

"What?" he asked at my gesture.

"You could feel a little sorry for her," I said matter-of-factly.

"Why?" he questioned.

"Well, you just said that every day is a risk in Hyrule. Malon is probably terrified that Talon will never come back to her," I said, surprising myself yet again by defending her.

Link looked at me with those searching eyes of his.

Now it was my turn to ask, "What?"

"I don't get it. One minute she irritates you, and then the next you're on her side," he said with a shake of his head.

I raised my eyebrows at him. "I could say the same for you. One minute you want nothing to do with her, and then the next you're flirting with her."

Link sat up straight. "Flirting with her? When?" He looked confused.

"The night of the celebration, when she pulled you away because you hadn't "talked to her the entire day"," I reminded him.

His eyes rounded as he remembered. "I wasn't flirting with her! I was just being… polite," he argued.

"Well, I hate to break it to you but your "politeness" looked an awful lot like flirting." Then I sighed with pity. "Poor girl; no wonder she still has hope."

Link's eyes narrowed. "Hope for what?"

I rolled mine. "To be with you."

He looked away. "… But I already told her I didn't feel that way," he groaned under his breath.

I blinked. "You did?"

He looked back at me, eyes narrowed once more. "Yes."

"When?" I asked, curious.

He didn't say anything, but just continued to stare at me through narrowed eyes.

I got the hint. "Alright, I get it. It's none of my business."

He looked away, exhaling sharply. Then after a moment he said, "If you really want to know, I told her the same day you first accused her of being my girlfriend."

"That long ago?" I questioned, surprised.

"Yes, that long ago," he grumbled. Then he crossed his legs, anchored his elbow to his thigh, and slapped his chin into his palm. "Things were so much easier to deal with before you guys showed up," he mumbled.

"How so?" I asked, interested.

"Well, for one, Malon wasn't so…" he petered out, thinking of the right word.

"Possessive?" I offered.

The corner of Link's lip turned upwards, his eyes returning to mine. "She was bearable to be around."

"Just bearable?" I laughed, then shook my head as a thought came to mind. "I wonder how Ilia can bother to be around her so much."

Link sat up straight again, his eyes turning soft. "Ordon is a small village, and Ilia's the only girl our age. I think she likes being around Malon because she's never had a friend who's a girl." Then he chuckled. "And, after six years of hanging out with me I'm sure she's happy for the change."

"I don't believe that," I smiled. "In fact, I think she probably misses you," I said as I thought back to the night of the party, and to the saddened look on Ilia's face when Malon took Link away.

Link let out a bark of laughter that took me by surprise. "Nah," he shook his head. "She's my best friend for sure, but she was never one to miss me whenever I left home."

"Really?"

He nodded. "Sometimes Rusl would take me to Castle Town with him, and we'd be gone for days. Ilia never missed me when I went on those trips."

"That… must've sucked," I remarked wryly.

"Yeah," he chuckled. "But not as much as it did when I liked her."

"You liked Ilia?" I blurted, intrigued.

Link's face froze as he realized what he'd just said. A second passed before his face thawed and a modest smile appeared on his lips. "When I first moved to Ordon I had a really big crush on her. And, after a little over a year of living there, Bo mentioned that he'd be very happy if Ilia and I ever decided to get married one day. I was excited about the idea; Ilia not so much. She flat out refused to marry me, saying that she didn't think she'd ever want to get married." Then he sighed loudly. "That day kinda hurt…"

"Ohh…" I voiced, trying to contain a laugh of pity as I imagined a tiny, rebuffed, thirteen year old Link. "Your poor little heart…"

He rubbed the back of his neck as the corners of his mouth rose.

"Well, maybe Ilia has changed her mind since then- you know, about the whole "marrying you" thing," I shrugged, thinking once again about the expression on her face as she watched Link.

He shook his head. "Not a chance! Ilia and I are like brother and sister. The thought of us marrying is… disturbing," he said with a visible shiver.

My brows knitted together.

…but Ilia looked so sad and… longingly… at…

That thought petered out as a realization came to mind.

…Link wasn't the only one standing next to Renado's hut that night…

A smile started to slowly grow on my lips.

…I wonder…

"What?" Link asked, looking puzzled.

My eyes flicked to his, then quickly out to the field. "I think Epona's done eating," I said, diverting his attention away from me.

It wasn't my place to mention anything about Ilia to Link as- after all- my hunch was just a hunch. And, at the end of the day- whatever the truth may be- it was none of my business.

Link nodded as he looked at his horse. "Yeah, looks like it." Then he stood up. "Come on," he said. "We should head back."

"Sure," I agreed, taking the hand that he offered me.

After I was on my feet Link jogged over to Epona (who had wandered about thirty feet away) and brought her back to where I was standing. Then he motioned for me to get on first.

Smiling, I mounted the saddle with ease before removing my left foot from the stirrup to allow Link to hop up behind me. Once the two of us were comfortable, I took a moment to adjust my grip on the reins; then I turned Epona in the direction of the Kakariko Bridge and double tapped her sides.

I continued to let Epona jog as we made our way over the bridge and through the barrier, down the mountain pass and into the stables.

Luda came over, greeting us with a smile as Link and I dismounted; then she took Epona away to be cleaned and stalled for the night.

After saying our good-byes to the both of them, Link and I headed back to the mountain pass. "Thanks for teaching me how to ride today," I said as we walked by the Eldin Spring. "I had a lot of fun."

"You're welcome," he smiled. "Another couple of rides and you'll be a pro."

"You mean I'm not a pro already?" I asked, feigning shock.

"A couple more rides," Link laughed.

I laughed with him as we made our way to Renado's. When we reached the front door Link paused.

"What's wrong?" I questioned.

"Sounds a little chaotic in there…" he said, his eyes flitting between annoyance and concern. Then he placed his hand on the door handle and opened the door.

He was right- the hut was in a bit of an uproar.

Shad was loudly mumbling incoherent things as he paced the balcony with books in his hands. Nobu was shouting mean things at Shad as he stood at the base of the library stairs. Telma was chastising Nobu for being so rude; while Zelda and Renado sat calmly on a bench, flipping through the pages of a large tome. Parker sat on the bedroom staircase looking bored; and Charlie hung out of the kitchen doorframe watching everything with a wry expression. I assumed Calli was in the kitchen trying to ignore it all.

"Del! Thank god you're back," I heard Parker say as he stood from the stairs and walked over to me.

"What's going on?" Link asked.

Parker was about to answer when Shad interrupted him by shouting my name.

"Del! Del, where have you been?" he cried as he flew down the balcony stairs.

"I was-"

"Oh, never mind! It's not important," he snapped, waving his book-filled hands as he approached. "Tell me… Have the goddesses said anything to you about the riddles? Anything at all…?"

I balked as I looked into his crazed eyes, completely at a loss for words. I felt someone lightly touch my arm and I turned my head to see Parker subtly shaking his 'no'.

"Uh… no," I said, looking back at Shad.

His face became crestfallen as his shoulders slumped. "It's there… I know it's there! It's at the tip of my tongue…" he mumbled as he turned away, dragging his feet behind him as he walked back to the staircase.

I looked at Parker with wide, questioning eyes.

"He's having a little bit of a hard time with the riddles," he told Link and I.

"A little?" I repeated, raising my eyebrows. "How long has he been like this?"

"Probably since last night," Parker shrugged.

I gave him a deadpanned look. "You think it's time that you helped him out?" I remarked, putting a subtle emphasis to my words.

His mouth turned into a straight line. "I thought it'd be best to wait for everyone to be here," he replied through tight lips.

"Why would you need to wait-" Link started, but was cut off by Parker.

"Uh, everyone? I think I know the answer to the first riddle," he called over the din of voices.

The room fell quiet.

Every pair of eyes watched Parker as he walked over to the balcony stairs, climbed up (passing a round-eyed Shad as he did) then scanned the nearest bookshelf. He pulled out an average sized book, flipped it open to a certain page, then walked back down and made his way over to Zelda.

"I believe it's the Water Temple," Parker said as he handed her the book.

Zelda's luminous grey eyes widened slightly as she took the book from Parker. She scanned the pages for a moment, then smiled beautifully. "Interesting," she said; her eyes inquiring him to enlighten her.

"How did- Where did you…?" Shad stammered as he stumbled his way down the stairs.

Parker explained everything the same way he explained it to us last night- with a few careful changes. He made sure that whenever he mentioned any "knowledge" of Hyrule, those facts came from the hours of reading the Hyrulean tomes and not from the years of gameplay.

When Parker finished Shad's mouth was hanging open.

"Incredible," Renado praised.

Parker gave him a crooked smile.

"Yes, your reasoning is intelligent, but is it correct?" Nobu questioned, skeptical.

"Nobu, why do you have to make things more complicated than they need to be?" Telma sighed with a shake of her head.

"We don't have time to be running around chasing guesses, Telma," Nobu growled.

"Del?" Zelda called before Telma could retort, "What do you think?"

"I agree with Parker," I told her honestly. "And I don't think it's a guess," I said, turning to Nobu. "It just feels…right."

"Are the goddesses talking to you again, sweets?" Telma whispered, placing her hands to her chest.

I smiled. "No. It's just a gut feeling."

Nobu groaned as he pinched the bridge of his nose.

"Renado?" Zelda asked, turning towards the shaman. "Would you be so kind as to grab me some writing supplies?"

"Of course," he responded with a bow of his head. Then stood and walked up to the bedrooms.

"A letter must be sent to the Zora Royal Family, asking for their permission to grant both you and Link entrance into their sacred temple," she said, addressing my look of curiosity.

An official letter from Zelda… Awesome!

"Oh, the Water Temple," Telma sighed as she swayed her way over to me. "I have heard stories of its grandeur and opulence," she smiled. "Some even proclaim that it rivals the halls of Hyrule Castle!" Then she grabbed both my hands and placed them flush atop her chest. "I am so jealous."

"Yeah, should be fun," I said tersely as I tried to pull my hands away.

She let go with another sigh then placed her hands on her wide hips. "I would have tried to visit it some time ago, but those pesky Zora's are very stubborn. They will not make their armor for just anyone," she rolled her eyes.

Oh my god, the Zora Armor! I almost forgot…

"Armor?" Link questioned.

"The Zora's are skilled at making materials that aid with breathing and swimming underwater for non-aquatic races," Shad said in a monotonous tone as he scrutinized the book that Parker gave Zelda.

"The armor is needed to access the Water Temple as the entire edifice is submerged deep below the lake," Zelda added for clarification.

"Ah," Link voiced with a nod of his head.

At that moment Renado returned, handing Zelda the paper and writing utensil she asked for.

I moved a bit closer as I watched her write her letter, admiring the way her hand flowed delicately and deliberately across the page. When she was done she folded the paper into thirds, then raised her two right fingers, the slender digits hovering over the letter for a moment before they started to glow a soft blue. She pressed the tips of her fingers onto the paper then removed them to reveal that the seam was sealed shut with the emblem of the Hyrulean Royal Family: the Wingcrest.

"Guard this well," she said as she handed me the letter.

"I will," I said in awe. I turned away, holding the letter close to my chest as I walked over to Parker. I stopped in front of him and smiled, raising the letter between us. "Da na na naa…" I sang quietly.

Parker snorted before setting off into a fit of laughter.

"Parker," Shad called from his spot by the bench, "I need you to show me all the evidence you found pertaining to the first riddle. I want to know where I went wrong and how I can avoid it when deciphering the next two!"

That sobered Parker up. "Uh… What's that Charlie? Calli needs my help in the kitchen?"

Charlie looked at Parker as if he was stupid. "What are you talking about? I didn't sa-"

"Okay, I'm coming!" Parker called then rushed into the kitchen, bumping into Charlie along the way.

Shad looked up at me, bewildered.

I just shrugged my shoulders before turning away and walking back over to Link.

"So…" I drawled, waving the letter in my hand. "Are you ready for another adventure?"

He grinned, his eyes glinting in a way that set my heart racing.

"Ready as I'll ever be."

---

So there we are- a few riddles solved; a few mysteries remaining...

I hope my riddle explanations turned out well- and YingWhiteyWolf, I'm pretty sure you got the second riddle right with your guess about the judgement tower :D (from Arbiter's Grounds, right?)

And I hope the 'riding lesson' read well. I did some research about riding, but I also made a lot of it up... So, if any of you are riders, I hope it was bearable to read xD

Don't forget, if you like what you're reading, please review, follow and fave!

~lavender phoenix~