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.

15. The Zoras

HELLOOOOO EVERYONE!

Man, where do I even start...

First, with a big, big, BIG apology for the length of time with this chapter. Since the beginning of the summer I've had to pull up my adulting pants, and have only been able to pull them back down around the end of last month. Here's to hoping that the pants stay crumpled on the floor for a good while so I can get more writing done, and not have to apologize constantly for really late chapters! (-, _ -)

Buuuut, even with all this time between my updates, I seriously can't thank each and every one of you enough!

All the comments that I have been getting are hands down the most amazing- and most humbling- things ever! And to everyone who just reads these chapters, or even just clicks onto the title out of curiosity- Thank you! Thank you, thank you, thank you all so, so much!

I have the confidence to write because of you!

Now, let's wrap up the sap and dive into the story!

Disclaimer: I do not, and never will, own LoZ- just my OC's and plot.

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The next day was raining.

And it was raining hard.

Looking up, the sky resembled dark granite- a giant skyward slab which had shattered opened, pouring its icy waters upon the earth in thick, heavy torrents that thundered and frothed on the ground. Shallow rivers rushed down the road, coursing their way through Kakariko Village at amazing speeds.

As I watched the downpour from under the safety of the inn's awning I couldn't help but think that this was Hyrule's cheeky way of preparing me for what's to come my way…

However, today was thankfully not that day as Zelda felt the weather was too troublesome for Link and I to travel.

Nobu felt differently, of course, but he didn't argue… much.

The inn was crowded today. Most- if not all- of the Hyruleans were gathered within the dining hall, talking loudly and animatedly over hot cups of tea. The rain certainly didn't seem to dampen their spirits, and it made me smile as I listened to their muffled laughs and jovial shouts through closed doors.

It wasn't long before I heard one of the doors open, and I turned to see Zelda walk out.

"Ready to brave the rain?" she asked lightly as she stood next to me.

I gave her an amused smile and nodded. Hunching my shoulders, I readied myself for the cold shock of torrential water when a soft glow caught my eye.

Zelda's right hand was emitting a delicate blue light, one that grew in brilliance as she expanded her magic into a wide shield. Then she gathered the hem of her cream coloured dress and held it above her knees.

I gave her a puzzled look.

She smiled then lifted her hand over her head. "A shield can be more than just armor," she informed before walking down the ramp; her pale silhouette blurring as she stepped into the waterfall of rain.

"…huh," I voiced, impressed. I followed suit and ignited my shield- a blaze of white which bled to a soft shimmering red- then raised it above my head and walked away from the protection of the awning.

I sloshed my way through ankle-deep water towards the infirmary; the back of my legs becoming soaked within seconds. Once I reached the infirmary door I quickly ran through it and closed it tight behind me.

"That rain is insane," I chuckled as I dropped my shield.

"Indeed it is," Zelda giggled as she set her barrier within the building.

Zelda and I spent the majority of the day playing around with magic; and I spent the majority of my time practicing my new trick.

As I did before, I'd create a shield then quickly collapse it, keeping that power held in my palm. However, instead of re-expanding my shield once more I started to release the condensed energy, firing beams of red light into the walls.

My trick had evolved from offense to defense; and I smiled.

Over and over I practiced- creating, collapsing, firing- and each time I'd get quicker and quicker, so much so, that the barriered walls were in a constant state of rippling.

Zelda was impressed; and every so often she'd stop what she was doing to watch my progression.

By the time the dinner bell rang I had accomplished a lot with my magic. What was once a tiny little trick had now become a full fledge technique.

I was able to seamlessly blend shield-to-beam-to-shield-again, all within a matter of seconds.

Zelda even remarked that I was so fast any enemy headed my way would need a miracle just to hit me- if I hadn't already struck them down first.

My heart flooded with pride, and confidence, and relief at her words. They meant that I had finally reached a crucial stage with my magic: one that gave me a resolute form of protection for my friends. And for myself.

We decided to call it a night and headed back to the inn to join the rest of the villagers in the dining hall for supper.

Unfortunately, the rainstorm hadn't let up and I walked into the hall with newly wet pants and a dampened attitude. However, the Hyrulean's chatter was just as cheery as it was when I last left them and I couldn't help but smile as I looked at all their bright faces. Their too bright faces…

I gave them all another look-over, taking note of their heavy lidded eyes and rosy cheeks- and realized that they've all been drinking.

I heard Zelda giggle under her breath.

As the two of us started to walk down the center aisle Nobu swiftly approached, bowing to his princess before escorting her to one of the tables.

I continued to make my way towards the back, waving to a few villagers that called my name as I did.

When I reached our table I was greeted by the warm sober smiles of my friends and Link.

"Not drinking tonight?" I asked as I sat next to Charlie, noticing that they all had cups of steaming tea in their hands.

"The stuff Telma passed around is nasty," Calli replied.

"That's never stopped Charlie," I smirked.

"Hey, even I have a standard when it comes to taste," he said, pointing his finger at me.

"Try it," Calli suggested and handed me a small glass that was placed at the end of the table.

"Sure," and I grabbed the glass and took a tiny sip. I immediately regretted it. The taste was horrible, like a dry, bitter wine that was left out in the sun for too long. It was a struggle to swallow it.

"See," Charlie taunted with a smirk of his own.

"How can anyone drink this stuff?" I laughed as I looked at Link, who was sitting across from me.

He shrugged his shoulders. "Desperate times?" he answered.

Parker, Charlie and Calli laughed.

I gave him a wide smile. "Clearly."

He smiled back. "How was training today?"

I smiled even wider. "Amazing!" and I started to tell him, and the others, of my new technique. I was in the middle of my story when the chef stuck his bald head out of the service window to scream that dinner was ready ten minutes ago and was getting cold (to which he promised to all three goddesses that he wasn't going to warm any dinners up, so help him Hylia!).

Parker, Charlie, Calli, Link and I all got up to grab our food while a few villagers stumbled their way down the aisles to the window.

After the five of us sat back down I continued telling them about my training as we ate bowls of noodles in warm broth, and sweet bread.

Once we finished eating Calli suggested we grab some tea and sit by the fireplace as the dining hall was getting a little chilly (and a little rowdy). Liking that idea, we quickly put away our dinner trays, grabbed our cups and a full pot of tea, then made our way to the mismatched chairs in the atrium.

Calli and Charlie snuggled up on one of the couches while Parker sprawled out in the single chair. Link sat next to me on the other couch; and I covered a small smile behind a sip of tea at how close he was.

The rest of our night could only be described as blissful.

The five of us sat in comfortable conversation, being warmed both in and out from the hot tea and roaring fire, while the happily intoxicated voices of the villagers mixed rather melodiously with the thundering of the rain outside.

Then it got to that point in the night where I started yawning. A lot. Once again using excessive magic took its toll and I had to excuse myself to bed.

As I stepped into the third floor hallway I started to shiver. The air was significantly colder up here and I had to fight the urge to go back downstairs. But as I entered my and Calli's room and turned on the oil lamp I noticed that the light actually gave off a tiny amount of heat- which gave me an idea. I went out into the hall and grabbed a couple more lamps from their wall hangings, then headed back to the room and started turning them on. The effect was small; but I hoped that by the time I came back from the bathroom the air would be decent enough for a peaceful sleep.

I quickly changed into the new nightgown that I managed to grab a few days ago. The shape was pretty much the same as Calli's (long and shapely with a V-neck), except mine was deep navy blue and had loose fitting, full length sleeves.

Then I took a moment to gather up my nighttime gear before stepping out into the chilly hall.

Walking back to the staircase I heard Calli's laughter and I smiled when I made my descent to the second floor. Parker, Charlie, Calli and Link were all still sitting around the fire; and I paused to watch them for a moment.

Calli was leaning against Charlie's chest and talking passionately about something that I couldn't hear over the sound of the rain. Charlie was smiling softly as he listened to his girlfriend, while Parker's head was nodding animatedly as he agreed with whatever she was saying.

Then I allowed my eyes to fall on Link.

He was still sitting where I left him, cup of tea in hand as he said something then took a sip.

I watched his movements and I couldn't help but notice how the glow created by the fire danced over his features, giving him an almost ethereal look. My heart started to beat as I brought my eyes to his and watched as the light from the flames flickered within them. I continued to stare- getting lost in trying to decide what colour of blue they were from this distance- until I realized that he was suddenly staring back.

I stood motionless as his eyes widen slightly, dip down over my frame before returning to my face.

My heart sped up and I couldn't tell if the pounding in my ears was from the blood rushing through my body or from the reverberation of the rain on the roof.

Snapping myself out of my inert state, I gave him a tiny smile and lifted my hand with a small wave. He gave me a crooked smile and small wave in return.

I quickly spun on my toes and headed straight into the bathroom- and I almost fell over after looking at myself in the mirror.

I was beet red from forehead to chest.

I don't think I need those oil lamps anymore… I thought as I splashed cold water onto my face.

I brushed my teeth, used the toilet, and was just about to leave when I stopped.

I went back to the mirror and looked at my reflection.

Since coming here the idea of putting effort into appearances pretty much flew out the window. At least, it did in my case…

But tonight, I wanted to fix that.

Tonight, I wanted to be seen.

I gently pulled at the elastic holding my loose braid in place and undid the plait with careful intention, then used my fingers to re-part my hair. After a moment of tweaking, my hair fell nicely over my shoulders in long black waves, and I smiled. Then I took a calming breath and exited the bathroom.

I walked back to the stairs slowly, watching below as I did.

It looked like the four of them were all in a deep conversation; and after standing on the second floor landing for a minute (or two…) I started to feel foolish and a little embarrassed.

I quickly turned away and took a few steps up the stairs when I heard Parker's voice.

"Night, Del!" he called.

I glanced over my shoulder to see everyone looking at me. But as I turned around to face them I was only focused on one.

Link was sitting a little straighter and his eyes were a little wider as he stared at me in a captivated way that made my body tingle.

"Goodnight," I called back. And with one last glimpse at Link I made my way back upstairs.

I was smiling with both brazen happiness and self-reproach as I walked into my room- now quite cozy with warmth- and started to turn off the extra lamps.

As I was putting them away my head started arguing with my heart.

The former was screaming:

Del, you idiot! What the fuck do you think you're doing? You're treading into dangerous waters here!

While the latter was singing:

That was too fun! Did you see the way he looked at you? We have to play this game again!

And as I shuffled my way back into my room, and curled myself under the covers, I had to admit…

The argument of my heart was winning.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoO

When I awoke the next morning it was still raining; and by the sound of it, much harder than yesterday.

As Calli and I sat in the chilly dining hall, eating cold broth and bloated noodles from last night's dinner (courtesy of a disgruntled chef), we were entertained by Nobu as he paced around and cursed the world for another day's delay to my and Link's journey to the Zora's.

However, by late morning the weather began to let up- so much so that by the early afternoon it was nothing but a light drizzle.

And that was good enough for Nobu.

Within an hour he had the horses tacked, bags packed, and Link and I geared for the misty rain, waiting at the front entrance of the mountain pass ready to be shipped out.

Sitting atop Suna's saddle (as Talon was still away with Ai) I quickly adjusted the large hooded poncho that Telma gave me for the trip. I was practically drowning in the water-wicking material, but I didn't mind as the deep gray fabric covered my entire body and kept me warm.

After I settled into my seat I watched as Nobu said a few words to Link before coming over to me.

"You have the letter Zelda wrote?" Nobu asked, squinting slightly as he tried to stop the feather-light rain from entering his eyes.

"Yes," I nodded, feeling the stiff paper resting securely between my abdomen and leather armor.

"Good," he responded with a nod of his own. "Best of luck," he said, his voice sounding optimistic. However, there was a tonal undercurrent of expectancy to his well wishes- one that said "don't fuck this up!"

Then he turned and headed back up the pass.

I inhaled and shivered; my shoulders spasming deeply as if they were trying to shake off Nobu's weighted words of expected success.

As I exhaled I turned ahead and looked at Link.

"Good to go?" he asked, pulling up the hood of his sand coloured poncho.

"Good to go," I nodded.

Link and I jogged Epona and Suna through the mountain barrier and over the Kakariko Bridge; then we steered the horses due west and set them off into a gallop.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoO

The first half of our journey was a little taxing.

The skies still misted the world with an airy rain; but our speed turned those light droplets into tiny missiles, pelting over my face and dripping chilly water down my neck.

But I couldn't complain. I originally had my shield up as a cover; however, after a while I decided that I'd rather have a wet face than a dead arm for this trip.

So, I soldiered on.

Sometime later we came upon a wide road; slowing the horses to a walk as we approached.

"This is the main road that connects Faron to Castle Town," Link said as we steered Epona and Suna onto it. "We'll take it northward before veering off towards the Bridge of Hylia," he explained.

I nodded then thought. "Are you sure traveling on a main road is a good idea? Won't it make us easy targets?" I voiced, concerned.

"Honestly, it would be safer if we were closer to the treeline," Link answered, pointing towards the distant band of trees running parallel to the road off to our left. "But getting to the outskirts of the forest would tack on unnecessary time at this point. And I don't think we have a lot of it," he finished, looking up at the sky.

I looked up too. "You think it's going to start pouring again?" I asked as I watched the gray sky move ominously.

"Yeah. It's just a matter of when." Then he twisted in his seat and grabbed a folded piece of paper from the satchel on Epona's saddle. "It might be a smart idea to find a place to stay for the night. It gets really cold traveling in the rain past nightfall."

"Good idea," I agreed, loving the thought of not having to push ourselves through this dreary weather for the entire day.

After a moment Link sighed.

"What's wrong?" I asked.

"This map only shows the main roads of Hyrule."

"And that's a problem because…?"

"Because it only shows us the inns that are built along these roads," he answered, refolding the now damp map. "And the nearest inn is a few miles outside of Castle Town."

"So we're out of luck then?" I sighed.

"Not necessarily," Link chuckled. "There's a roadside shop roughly an hour away. We can ask for directions to the nearest village from there."

"Good," I smiled with relief; and then we took off once more, galloping the horses through the silver drizzle.

I kept my sight on the gray sky, watching with mist swept eyes as it shifted constantly above us. Then, without any warning, the dark clouds rippled and released a downpour so fierce that the weight of it pushed my body down.

This time I did summon my shield, and expanded it as wide as I could to cover my and Suna's head.

I quickly looked towards Link and was happy to see that he had the same idea: using the Hylian Shield to stave off the brunt of the rain. However, it was only big enough to cover him and not Epona, and I wished that I was able to recreate a domed shield like before.

But Epona didn't seem bothered; and in some way that didn't surprise me.

We continued on for what felt like an eternity; the bronzed road the only streak of colour within our surroundings of muted gray.

My arm started to tire- and it was not from keeping it held high, but from fighting against the onslaught of the rain.

I was just about to test my novice riding skills and let go of the reins to use both my hands to keep my shield steady, when Link's muffled shout caught my attention.

"I see something up ahead!" he yelled, pointing somewhere off to the right.

I followed his finger but couldn't see anything… until I could.

It was small and washed-out and just to the side of the road; and as we got closer the "something" turned into a house-like structure with a long wooden awning attached to the back.

Link skirted Epona in front of me and led us to the back of the building.

Once under the wooden canopy Link and I quickly dismounted and took a look around. The area was a place to "park" your horse; and came complete with a water trough and dry hay.

"I thought we'd never get here," I exhaled in relief as I collapsed my shield.

"Same," Link agreed. "Let's go in."

We stepped back into the rain and sprinted to the front door, Link swinging it open then following me inside.

I paused, lowering my hood and smiling widely as I took a look around the shop. Rough stone floors; dark shelves lined with various objects; large wooden barrels and burlap sacks stacked in the corners; a display wall covered with various types of weaponry; and a bald grizzly of a man standing behind a long counter with an overly wide smile plastered on his face.

"Travelers! Welcome, welcome. What can I help you with on this fine rainy day, hmm?" the shopkeeper asked jovially, his left eye protruding roundly in his excitement.

I almost squealed in delight.

"We need a place to stay for the night and we're wondering if you could give us directions to the nearest village?" Link asked as he removed his poncho hood.

"How about I do you one better? I sell you a map with the directions on it for, say… 40 rupees?" the shopkeeper grinned, causing his right eye to almost disappear behind his eyelid.

"40? That's a steep price for a map!" Link exclaimed.

"Hmm…" the shopkeeper voiced, running a hand down his large bushy beard. "30, then?"

"30? That's still pricey. Besides, we don't need a map. We just need directions to the closest village," Link argued.

The shopkeeper eyed Link. "25. And that is my final offer."

"How about we forget the map and I give you 5 rupees for verbal directions?" Link glowered.

"No map, no directions," the shopkeeper said firmly.

Link groaned under his breath then turned to me. "What do you think?" he asked quietly.

"About the map?" I questioned in a whisper.

He nodded.

"Is 25 rupees still expensive?"

"Yes," Link said, frowning.

"Well, if the map can show us stuff that ours can't then maybe it's worth getting?" I answered with a shrug.

Link took a second then nodded in agreement. As he turned back towards the shopkeeper I quickly stopped him.

"Uh… we'll still have enough money for an inn, right?" I verified.

"Yeah," Link smiled; then faced the counter. "Okay. Let me see the map so I can make sure it has what we need."

"What, so you can memorize it then walk out without buying it? I think not, young lad!" the shopkeeper scowled.

I would've loved to listen more to their argument but something very pressing caught my attention. I walked away from the front of the shop and headed towards a shallow alcove within the side wall; my heart beating fast and my eyes growing wide as I stood before them all.

Pots…

Row after row of pots…

I reached out a tentative hand and touched one, feeling the unpolished roughness of the brown clay, the smoothness of the black leather band that wrapped around the middle, and the cool, white wave pattern around the neck that looked to be made from some sort of shell.

I picked it up and was surprised by how light it was. I gave it a little shake before putting it back and picking up the one next to it. This time when I shook it something rattled within.

Heart racing from my chest, my breath hitched with overwhelming excitement and I had to take a moment to remember how to breathe.

Once I got my lungs under control I inhaled deeply, raised the pot over my head, then threw it hard to the ground.

A pleasing tingle went up my spine as it shattered at my feet, the sound giving me goosebumps as it was an exact replica from Ocarina of Time.

But my lips pulled into a frown when I saw no rupee amongst the rubble. I toed the broken pieces, seeing if it was hidden under a larger shard, but found nothing.

Must've been a pebble, or a chipped piece… I thought as I picked up the first pot I held, deciding to try an "empty" feeling one this time.

Just as I raised the second pot high above my head a strange noise reached my ears- a sound that could only be described as an inhaling hiss.

I looked back to see where it was coming from and I froze.

Link, still at the front of the shop, stood stock still as a blended look of shock and confusion covered his face. His eyes traveled to the broken pot at my feet then back to me, his mouth slightly open.

But it wasn't Link who was the source of that soul-shriveling sound…

It was the shopkeeper.

There he was- pale as a ghost with both hands crushed against his cheeks, emitting that awful hissing sound through squished lips as a look of pure horror bulged from his eyes.

"…oh my god…" I breathed as I quickly replaced the pot.

"You… what… you… I cannot…" the shopkeeper barely squeaked out.

"Oh my god! I'm so- so sorry!" I said behind my hands. "I can fix it… or- or pay for it…?"

"Those pots are worth 500 rupees…" the shopkeeper glared.

"Uh, okay…" I turned to face the alcove, "and I broke one, so… that'd be about 10 rupees-"

"Each!" the shopkeeper cried.

I looked at him, dumbfounded. "Wait… 500 rupees for one pot? You're kidding, right?" Then I looked at Link. "He's kidding, right?"

"I think you should wait outside," Link said in a low voice.

A knot formed in the pit of my stomach as I stared into his hardened eyes; and I knew…

He was pissed.

I nodded quickly, too afraid and embarrassed to say anything else. Lowering my head, I rushed to the front door, only to be stopped by Link grabbing my arm. He pulled me towards him and leaned close to my ear.

"Grab the horses and make your way up the road. Don't stop," he murmured, his tone stern.

I swallowed and nodded again, and left the shop without question.

My blood pounded in my ears, each pulse screaming "stu-pid, stu-pid, stu-pid" as I ran through the icy rain back to the awning.

Epona and Suna were munching on hay when I rounded the corner; and I felt horrible at having to disturb them and bring them back out into the bitter open. But I threw up my hood and did as Link said- grabbing both sets of reins and leading the horses away from the shop and up the wide road.

I walked fast, and I didn't look back… until I heard the hard slap of watery footfalls coming up behind me.

I quickly looked over my shoulder and felt relief.

It was Link.

I stopped the horses and waited for him to catch up.

It didn't take him long; but I found myself wishing that it had. The hard look was still on his face as he stopped in front of me, his eyes narrowing as he stared.

A lump formed in my throat.

"What the fuck happened back there, Del?" he hollered over the falling rain.

"Oh god, I know, I know, I'm sorry!" I cried in embarrassment. "I wasn't thinking. I saw the pots sitting there and I thought that there'd be rupees in them, so I-"

"Rupees?" Link exclaimed with wide eyes. "Are you insane? Why would there be rupees in pots?"

My hackles instantly rose, and the need to defend my actions overtook me. "Because that's where you find them in the games!" I yelled as I dropped the horses reins and started to pace. "You smash pots, or cut grass, or move rocks, and that's how it's been in almost every Legend of Zelda game so far!" Then I took a deep breath. "And I'm sorry that I broke that pot- because it clearly didn't have anything in it- but I'm trying to figure out how the game mechanics work in this world, and let me tell you, it's not easy!" I bellowed in frustration.

Link said something but I didn't catch it as the sound of rain and pounding blood filled my ears.

"What?" I questioned with a snap.

"What game?" Link repeated, louder.

I looked at him, puzzled. "Game…? What are you-" Then I felt my face fall in shock.

Oh my god… I didn't…

I gasped as the realization of what I said hit me; and I quickly slapped my hands over my mouth before taking a step back.

…no, no, no, no, no…

Link stared at me, eyes round and unblinking.

For the longest time we stood like statues, facing each other in stilled silence as the steel coloured rain pelted us from above.

Then Link spoke over the rainfall. "You weren't lying that night, were you? When you said that Hyrule is just a game in your world?"

I let my hands slip from my mouth. "You remember me saying that?"

"It's not a comment you easily forget," he said matter-of-factly.

"The others did," I pointed out.

Link nodded, then said, "But I didn't…"

My eyes widened slightly as I stared at him. "Are… are you saying that you believe me?" I questioned.

"No," he looked away; then he looked back. "I don't know…" he shook his head. "My world being a game… It doesn't make any sense…" His eyes searched mine. "Does it?"

I gazed at him softly through the falling rain. "We come from completely different worlds, Link. Different worlds with different realms; governed by different universal realities. In your world," I gestured around us, "Hyrule is a country. In mine, it's a game."

Link stared at me for a moment, seemingly lost in thought. When he didn't look away I started to get worried.

"Are you okay?" I asked, hoping he wasn't having some sort of existential crisis.

He nodded. "I was just thinking…" he paused; then he asked, "How come you never brought it up again?"

"You mean for other reasons besides being laughed at and deemed a crazy person…?" I inquired, raising my eyebrows.

Link crossed his arms.

I sighed loudly. "Honestly, after the way everyone reacted the first time, I thought it would be best to keep that fact between Parker, Calli, Charlie, and myself."

"So they all know about the... game?" he questioned.

I nodded. "Parker does, obviously. He's basically an encyclopedia when it comes to Hyrule. But Charlie and Calli?" I chuckled, shaking my head. "They know of the games, but have never played them."

"Wait, games? As in plural?" Link questioned, his eyes widening again.

…oh dear…

"Yeah," I confirmed softly. "There are multiple games of Hyrule; each one following a different incarnation of the Chosen Hero."

Link inhaled deeply; the movement causing large beads of rain to cascade over his shoulders like tiny waterfalls.

I felt a knot form in my chest.

"I'm really sorry, Link," I sighed. "This was something no one should've heard again." I glanced away, feeling ashamed.

"No, don't apologize," he said. I looked back to see him slip his hand into the hood of his poncho and rub the back of his neck. "It's just… a lot… I still have so many questions-"

"And I'll answer any that I can," I said quickly as the look on his face was pulling my heart in funny directions.

He didn't miss a beat. "Okay, I think I can wrap my head around the idea of Hyrule existing as different forms in different realities," he stated. "But… how do you think my world became a game in yours?"

I startled him by laughing. "Of course you'd ask the hardest question." I shook my head, causing droplets of water to fall off the edges of my hood. "I'm not sure, Link. I can only guess."

"A guess is better than nothing," he assured.

I blew out a puff of air and the rain dripping from my hood spattered. "Okay, well… it could simply be nothing more than some sort of weird… transcendent coincidence," I offered. "But… maybe the game's creator was somehow transported here, too, a long time ago, and- and was inspired by what he saw?" I shrugged. "Or maybe he just had a very vivid dream about Hyrule-"

"Like a vision?" Link interrupted.

I nodded slowly. "Yeah, like a vision."

He looked away. "Do the goddesses really talk to you?" he asked, his eyes returning to mine.

Caught off guard, I hesitated to answer.

Link's features fell when I hesitated a little too long.

"You're not really an oracle, are you?"

That lump in my throat came back.

Of course I am! Haven't I proved myself enough times already? -my head screamed at me to say.

Tell him the truth -my heart whispered.

And so I did- much to the exasperation of my logical side. "No, I'm not an oracle. I'm just a girl who knows The Legend of Zelda games pretty well." I gave him a weak smile.

"So every time you had a vision or the goddesses spoke to you-"

"Came from me; and from what I already know of this world" I explained delicately.

His brow furrowed as he looked at me. "Then, if you're not an oracle… why are you here?"

"I think I have an answer to that, actually. Do you remember-" but I stopped short as the sky suddenly filled with an electric light and the earth shuddered beneath my feet.

"We need to get moving," Link said as he watched the clouds. "A storm is heading in our direction."

"Of course it is…" I groaned, and followed Link to gather Epona and Suna.

The wind started to pick up, howling through the rain and nipping viciously at my face and hands as I mounted Suna's saddle. But I settled in quickly and waited for Link to lead the way.

"There's a village not too far from here! We'll head there and look for a place to stay the night!" Link said loudly over the gale.

"Did you buy the map?" I shouted, astonished.

Link smirked. "No. I took a look at it when the shopkeeper's back was turned and memorized it."

I let out a bubbly laugh of amazement.

"Let's go," he motioned, and then the two of us were off, galloping at full speed.

As we continued our way north I was thankful that the wind remained at our back; however, that meant that the storm was gaining on us- and honestly, I was a little frightened. My shield might be able to stave off arrows and swords, and possibly even magic, but a natural force like lightning? I wasn't so sure.

Suddenly a vein of lightning struck the field far off in the distance- and I swore I could feel the electrical charge in the air, zapping its way through the rain towards us.

Link didn't seem fazed at all, which made me relax a little, until another round of lightning hit the ground- some fifty feet away…

I couldn't stop the yelp from escaping my lips as I felt the charge sting the tip of my nose. Then something brushed my left shoulder, and I whipped my head around to see Link riding close beside me. I exhaled slowly as I looked at him.

"Just keep your focus straight ahead," I heard him yell. "We'll outrun the storm!" he promised.

I gave him a quick nod then looked forward; keeping my eyes pinned on the burnt umber road before us. It helped calm me down. But after a while my curiosity got the better of me and I looked around at our surroundings.

The black band of the treeline was significantly larger, and continued to get larger the further we rode. It wasn't long before the outskirts of the forest became flush with the road- following alongside us as Link and I raced past.

Just then, Link reached out and took hold of the rein next to Suna's bit and slowed both horses to a walk.

"What's wrong?" I asked.

"The entrance to the village should be close by," he answered, looking at the forest. "I don't want us to miss it." A moment passed before Link halted both horses and pointed at something within the trees. I followed his finger and saw an old wooden sign atop a tall post, rot and moss covering most of its surface. "Through here," he said and steered Epona into the forest.

I followed suit, keeping Suna behind the copper horse as the forest path was rather narrow.

The dimness of the early evening filtered poorly through the thick canopy overhead; offering Link and I very little light to see. But Link reassured me that we'd have enough light left to get us to the village safely.

I trusted his judgement; however, I didn't much care for the way the thick raindrops glinted like the cold pinpricks of bokoblin eyes- so I ignited my power and created a light source.

The woods around us bleached white as I flared my magic out as far as I could; trying to push back some of the shadows that threatened to close us in.

Link's paled silhouette turned in his saddle, shielding his eyes as he looked back at me. "That's really impressive," he smiled.

"Thanks," I smiled back. Then my smile faltered. "You think it'll attract the bokoblins?"

"Possibly," he said as he faced forward. "But like I said before: we'll hear them before we see them."

"You'll hear them…" I said under my breath as I scanned the trees.

"True," he chuckled.

I rolled my eyes.

I kept quite as we continued to follow the path, listening for any discrepancies that might indicate something other than rainfall and horse hooves. However, my silence was unwarranted as we made it to the end of the path rather quickly; the trees abruptly breaking apart and opening into a massive clearing rolling with hills and dotted with dozens of little cottages.

The rain was nothing more than a light drizzle here as Link and I wandered the horses onto the village's main road; walking past glowing windows as the dusky gray of evening started to turn the world prematurely dark.

"I see the inn," Link said, directing my eyes to the left, towards a long two-leveled building sitting on top of a small hill.

We veered off the main road and onto the smaller trail that took us up the hillside and straight to the front doors of the inn.

Link and I dismounted; then he took both sets of reins and led the horses to the side of the building where he tethered them to a post.

He quickly rejoined me and then the two of us entered the inn, lowering our hoods as we did so.

The moment I stepped over the threshold my face was instantly blasted by a stuffy heat, my nose bombarded with the scent of roasted vegetables, and my ears accosted by the raucous voices of multiple people. It was such a welcomed feeling after being all day in the silence and the cold and the bitter rain. I sighed happily.

Just then, a round faced lady emerged from behind a tiny bar. She started cleaning its surface absentmindedly when she suddenly looked up. "Oh," she exclaimed in surprise. "I am sorry; I hope the two of you were not standing there long?"

"No, we just walked in," I assured her.

"Very good," she said, relieved. "Welcome to the Hillside Inn. My name is Magda. How can I help you two?" she smiled, which made her face even more circular.

"We're looking for a room for the night," Link said as the two of us approached the bar.

"Hmm, let me see what I have avail-" her voice was suddenly drowned out by the thundering sound of laughter coming from an opened doorframe in the right-hand wall.

"Sounds like quite the party," I said as the voices started to subside.

Magda giggled as she scanned a large registration book. "Yes, indeed. There is a wedding tomorrow, and many folk from different villages have come to celebrate."

"Guess they started the festivities early," I chuckled.

Magda nodded. "Well, I have a room available. Two beds, one bath, and a small sitting area."

"We'll take it," Link said.

"Wonderful. That will be 30 rupees, please."

My eyes widened.

"We also have two horses," Link informed her.

Magda nodded. "It will be 10 rupees for boarding, making your total 40 rupees for the night."

Link lifted up the side of his poncho and removed a money pouch from his belt. He rummaged through it, and after a moment he handed her two red rupees.

Wow… I thought, eyeing the hexagonal shapes that turned out to be no bigger than my thumb.

Magda thanked Link for the money, then turned and walked to a cubby against the back wall. "Your room number is 15, which is on the top floor," she informed us as she picked up a gold key and handed it to Link. "You can use the stairs here," she continued, pointing to a staircase along the left-hand wall, "or you can use the one from the dinner room, which you will find at the end of the corridor," she pointed towards the doorframe. "Supper and drinks are included in the price; breakfast will be an additional 2 rupees each, if that is something you desire. As for the stables, they can be found out back. We have a twenty-four hour watch, but please feel free to visit there anytime. I will have my husband collect your horses and get them settled," Magda finished.

"Thank you," Link and I said in unison.

She gave us each a warm smile before she walked away from the bar and headed down the right-side corridor.

"So, what should we do first? Check out the room or eat?" I asked Link as my stomach suddenly grumbled loudly, casting my vote.

Link chuckled. "Yeah, I'm hungry too. But we should quickly go to the room first." He lowered his voice. "I think it'd be smart if we dropped off our weapons before going to eat with a room full of drunken people."

I nodded in agreement, completely forgetting that I carried Colin's sword at my hip.

We walked up the staircase, turning right at the landing and stood in a long, well-lit hallway lined with doors on either side.

I looked at the first door on the left. "Number 30," I said, aloud. "That means-"

"That our room is at the other end," Link finished.

Eight doors-down and on the right-hand side of the hall we came upon number 15.

Link unlocked the door and pushed it open, revealing a modest sized room with two single beds against the right wall, the bathroom on the left, and two shabby sitting chairs placed under a grand window that took up the majority of the front wall.

"This room is great," I said as I walked over to the window and stared out at the scenery below. The entire village shimmered in a navy gray as the beginnings of a bright moon started to peek its way through the clouds. "We even got a view; and it was only 40 rupees! That shopkeeper was a dick, trying to sell a map at 40 to begin with," I said, shaking my head.

Link laughed as he turned on the oil lamp that was hanging next to the door.

"What did you do once I left?" I asked, turning away from the window.

"Nothing, actually," he said as he removed his poncho, revealing the Hylian Shield strapped to his chest.

I smiled. He must've grabbed it after tying up the horses; worried that something that precious would be taken.

"I basically told the guy that I wasn't going to buy his map, or pay for his broken pot, then turned tail and got out of there before he could fire his crossbow at me," he finished, shrugging the Master Sword from over his shoulder.

I stifled a laugh with my hand.

"You think that's funny?" Link asked, raising an eyebrow.

I straightened my face. "Not at all," I lied, my cheeks twitching.

"Right…" Link smirked.

"Man, 500 rupees for a pot… The nerve of that guy…" I said as I slipped out of my poncho and undid the belt holding Colin's sword.

I was about to leave my stuff on one of the sitting chairs when I saw Link place his weapons under the door-side bed. I copied him, placing Colin's sword under the bed next to the window before throwing my gray poncho over it, making it almost invisible.

Weapons safely put away, Link and I walked back out into the hallway, locking the door behind us. Then we made our way to the other set of stairs and walked down into the noisy dinner room.

The room reminded me of a medieval tavern, like the ones you'd see in movies, complete with long tables, stone fireplaces, and thick wooden beams crisscrossing along the ceiling. There was a small empty table next to one of the fireplaces along the back wall; and Link and I carefully navigated our way over, side-stepping flailing arms and sloshing tankards. We reached the table virtually unscathed (our boots being the only casualties of spilt alcohol) and sat down quickly. No sooner had we done so, a young tavern girl with dark eyes came by, holding two large bowls in her hands.

"Dinner?" she asked with a sweet smile that was directed at Link.

"Thank you," Link said, smiling kindly.

The tavern girl placed the bowls in front of us then said, "I'll bring by some water," and left.

My stomach roared. "God, I'm hungry," I said, practically salivating as I pulled my dinner closer. A spoon was already set in the bowl, and I picked it up to examine the food. It looked like a meat stew, filled with chunky vegetables and thick soup. I took a small spoonful and smiled. As I took another bite Link stood up.

"I'll be right back."

"Where are you going?" I asked around a full mouth, watching as he walked towards the tavern girl, now holding a small pitcher and two glasses. I saw her pause and look at Link as if she expected him to talk to her; but he just passed her by and walked into the corridor that led back to the front room.

I couldn't help my smile as I turned back to my dinner.

"Here's your water," the dark eyed girl said as she placed the pitcher and glasses down on the table.

"Thanks," I said as I poured myself a cup, watching her walk away from the corner of my eye. I chugged my first glass; and just as I was about to pour another Link came back, banging two metal tankards onto the table. I looked at the frothy drinks then up at Link. "Thirsty?" I smirked.

He snorted. "This one's for you," and slid one my way.

"Ah, well thank you." I took the handle and lifted the rim to my nose, smelling the amber liquid. It had a sweet and toasty scent. "What is it?"

"I'm not sure, but it's what everyone else is drinking," Link shrugged. "All I know is that after a day like today, I need it."

"Yeah, sorry about that," I said, hiding my sheepish smile by taking a sip of the alcohol. It was pretty pleasant: cold and creamy with a toasty, bitter sweetness that reminded me of a burnt marshmallow.

The corner of Link's mouth rose as he brought rim of his tankard to his lips and took a long, deep drink. Then he placed the large cup on the table, grabbed his bowl of stew and started eating.

I resumed eating as well; and we sat in a comfortable silence until our bowls were empty and our drinks were half drunk.

"So," Link said, looking up at me.

"So?" I repeated.

"You were going to tell me why you think you were brought to Hyrule?"

"Yes, right!" I exclaimed. "Do you remember when we were heading back from the Sacred Grove and I had that small epiphany about why I could be here?"

Link nodded. "You said that you'd tell me when you knew for sure."

I nodded back. "Just to be clear, this could be nothing more than speculation on my part; but, I think I was brought here to be your companion."

"My companion?" he said, looking slightly confused.

"How much do you know about your previous incarnations?" I questioned.

Link's eyes lowered to his hands. "Not a lot, if I'm being honest. Just a few facts Zelda told me after she discovered who I was."

"And do any of those facts include the companions that helped guide each hero on their quest?"

Link thought for a moment then shook his head.

I sighed dramatically. "Oh that's just unfair. I've been given a destiny that will have me fade into oblivion the moment it's complete."

"Given a destiny?" Link asked.

"That's what the Great Fairy told me. She said I was given a destiny that is not the same as the Chosen Hero's but must cross the same path- or something along those lines…"

"And you believe that's to be my companion?"

"It makes the most sense if you think about it. All the past heroes had one: Fi for the Hero of the Skies; Navi for the Hero of Time; The King of Red Lions for the Hero of Winds; and if this world was following the games correctly, you, Hero Chosen by the Gods, would have a Twili companion named Midna," I explained.

Link blinked. "Twili? I thought they were just a myth?"

I shrugged. "I'm not sure if they are or not here. This Hyrule doesn't seem to follow any game that I know of."

Link looked at me, his brow furrowed. "What do you mean?"

"Well, I know I can safely say that this Hyrule and its people are from the game Twilight Princess. Same goes for your current incarnation as the Chosen Hero. But there are elements that are out of place." I paused to take another sip of my drink.

"Like what?" Link urged.

I wiped my mouth. "Like the fact that the Twili and Twilight Realm aren't present, even though this world is supposed to revolve heavily around them for a time; or the fact that Talon and Malon belong to another game-"

"What?" Link practically spat.

I nodded. "They belong in the same game as the Hero of Time."

Link slumped back in his chair, wide eyed.

"There's also the fact that the Glaive of Souls doesn't exists in any of the games. I've never even heard of it until coming here…" I paused, giving Link a chance to say something; but he remained wide-eyed and silent. So, I continued. "You see, this Hyrule… it doesn't seem to follow the normal storyline laid out by the game; which leads me to believe that that's why I'm here. I was given the task to help guide you through this... amalgamation of different worlds, using what I know from years of gameplay," I finished.

Link still didn't say a word; and after a minute I asked, "Are you okay?"

His eyes darted to mine. "Yeah. It's just… a lot..." He rubbed the back of his neck.

I grimaced. "I'm sorry… again. If I could go back and stop myself from saying anything I would."

Link shook his head. "No, I'm glad I know. It's just…"

"A lot," I answered.

He chuckled. "Yeah."

I exhaled deeply from my nose; then I smirked. "Do you want another drink?" I offered. "Perhaps something a little stronger? You know, to help you forget all this for a while?"

Link gave me a smirk of his own; then flipped me off.

I clapped, laughing. "Well done."

"Thank you," he said. "I learnt it from the best." Then he inclined his head and gave me a lax salute of recognition.

"Me? Really?" I gasped theatrically, placing my hands over my heart. "Well, if I'm the best it's only because you made me the best," I winked.

Link laughed; and I joined him. It was a needed release after all the stresses of today.

Once our laughter petered out Link said, "We should probably head back to the room; get a good night's sleep. We should try for an early start tomorrow."

"Okay," I agreed.

As Link and I stepped away from our table I was surprised to still see so many people in the dinner room.

I must've blocked them all out the moment we started talking…

We meticulously weaved our way back to the staircase (with no casualties to spilt alcohol this time) and walked up to the second floor. As we turned left at the landing and headed down the hall, a small pressure started to grow in my bladder, and continued to grow to a point of almost making me dance on the spot as we came upon our room. Link unlocked the door and I skirted in.

"I call the bathroom!" I cried as I bee-lined straight to it.

"Fine," I heard Link sigh behind me. "Uh…you're not planning on taking a bath, are you?" he questioned lightly.

I stuck my head through the doorframe to look at him. "I hadn't thought about that…" I said feigning interest in the idea.

I heard a small groan escape his lips.

"I won't be long," I chuckled, stepping back into the bathroom and locking the door. I turned, removing my fingerless gloves as I quickly scanned for the toilet. Finding it to my left I shuffled over and sat down, tossing my gloves onto the floor before I took a look around the dimly lit room.

The wall across from the door had a large mirror that sat above a small sink, which was carved deep into the stone of a long counter top; and a circular wooden tub was placed in a showering alcove to the right. The toilet (which I finished using) was to the left; and looked the exact same as the one at the Elde Inn.

I walked over to examine the tub, and a small part of me wanted to take advantage of Link's apprehension and hop into a quick, steaming bath. But a bigger part felt the weight of exhaustion rapidly taking me over. So I settled with washing my hands and face with the hot water provided by the sink. As I went to reach for a folded hand towel I noticed a long metal box placed along the wall under the mirror. I opened the lid and smiled with gratitude. Inside were a couple of toothbrushes and a large pot of toothpaste. After I brushed my teeth I pulled my hair out of its ponytail, letting it fall down my back as I quickly massaged my tender scalp. Once I was finished I left the bathroom.

"Done," I said as I walked into the bedroom.

"That was fast," Link commented as he folded his green tunic and placed it onto one of the sitting chairs. "Decided not to take a bath, then?" He took off his hat.

I gave him a crooked smile and shook my head. "No. I figured I tortured you enough today as it is."

"Thanks for the reprieve," he snorted.

"You're welcome," I said brightly, taking a bouncing seat on the window-side bed.

Link chuckled as he removed his chainmail and draped it over the back of the chair. He quickly adjusted his undershirt before he took off his gloves and tossed them on top of his tunic. Then he headed to the bathroom.

"There's a toothbrush and toothpaste in the metal box by the sink," I told him.

"Oh good," he smiled, then stepped through the door and closed it.

I swiveled my body on the bed to face the window and stared out at the darkening sky as I removed my boots. I stared in fascination as the dried storm clouds blew across the sky in a violent manner, continuously splitting and stitching themselves back together as the fierce winds barraged wildly through them.

Then I stood, reaching behind me to untie the strings of my armor and loosening them enough so I could shimmy my way out of it. As I pulled the leather over my head I heard a soft thud, and I looked down to see Zelda's letter on the floor. I quickly picked it up, smoothed out the wrinkles as best I could, then put it on top of my armor and placed both onto the unused chair before I walked up to the large pane of glass.

Along the hilly landscape of the sleepy village, moonlight and shadow competed for dominance. I watched as milky light blinked into existence through jagged lacerations in the clouds; only to be snuffed out as the inky shade sutured the wispy gashes shut.

However, there was one light, far off in the distance, that didn't seem affected by the skyward competition.

It moved independently, like a bug- the tiny speck flitting back and forth along one of the small roads of the village, getting closer and closer, the speck getting bigger and bigger…

I blinked, trying to focus on the growing orb of light as it floated over the main road- then paused.

At that moment there was a break in the clouds- large enough and long enough to shine a shaft of moonlight onto the orb; and I froze.

Eyes wide, I gaped at the image at the bottom of the hill, for there, hovering in the pale beam was a poe.

Covered in a tattered shroud of blackness, it swung a lantern from side to side, the orb of glowing light encased within. Its eyes were nothing more than red slits, hidden under a hood of murk.

And those eyes were looking at me…

I felt my right hand tingle; growing warm with each passing second…

Suddenly, the beam of light imploded into darkness and a loud click sounded from behind me.

I shrieked, jumping out of my skin as I turned towards the metallic noise- which was now replaced by the shout of a male voice.

"What's wrong?" Link questioned, his eyes wide as he ran over to me.

"Noth- nothing," I said, catching my breath. "Well, uh… I guess not "nothing". There's a poe outside," I explained, my heart still pounding.

"What? Where?" Link asked, looking out the window.

"There-" I pointed, then stopped. The poe's ghostly shade was gone- as well as its light. "It was there, I swear. Floating at the bottom of the hill."

Link looked at me and smiled. "I believe you. Just wish I got to see it," he sighed, turning back towards the window.

"You've never seen one?"

He shook his head. "I thought I did once, when I was younger. But it turned out to a mass of lightning bugs."

I smiled softly.

"Del? You knew it was a poe because of the game, right?" He kept his eyes pinpointed to a spot outside.

"Yes."

He didn't respond; and I watched in concern at all the emotions racing across his face. But then he seemed to settle on one: Resolve.

"Okay," he finally said, turning his eyes back to mine. And I was taken aback by how unclouded they appeared; at how accepting they were with that fact.

I smiled brightly. "Okay."

He turned away from the window, heading towards the door-side bed when he quickly turned back. "Oh, I believe these are yours," he smirked, holding out my Faron leather gloves.

"Right, thanks," I chuckled, forgetting that I left them on the bathroom floor. I took them and tossed them onto the chair before I walked over to the window-side bed. As I began to turn down my covers the light in the room started to dim, and I looked up to see Link turning off the oil lamp next to the bedroom door.

The room was dark as I crawled into bed; but it wasn't long before the soft glow of the night filtered through the window and my eyes adjusted to the shadows around me.

"So, explain something to me," Link said as he walked away from the door and sprang into his bed. "Why on Din's red earth would you find rupees in a pot?" he asked, folding his hands behind his head and leaned against the backboard.

I sat up, crossing my legs under the covers. "It's part of the fun, I guess. Finding pots and breaking them to see if they have anything inside," I shrugged. "But it's not just pots. You can collect rupees by cutting grass, moving rocks, or smashing them. It's an easy way to get free money."

"Cutting grass?" Link questioned, raising a dark eyebrow. "How would that be considered free money? Isn't it technically a service?

I cocked my head in confusion. "What do you mean?"

He gave me a look. "Cutting someone's grass would be considered a payable service. At least it is here…" his voice petered out. "Don't you have services like that in your world?"

A smile broke on my lips as a bubbly giggle rose up my throat, light and airy before it turned into a deep, uncontrollable mess straight from my gut. I clutched my stomach as I fell backwards onto my bed; my mirth an unstoppable force.

"What?" I heard Link question. "What's so funny?"

I slapped my hands over my face to stop the stream of tears from soaking my pillow. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry," I said between intakes of breath. "But- but it's not people who give you money for cutting the grass…" I choked out. "It's the bla- the blades of grass that drop rupees once they're cut!"

"Hang on… Let me get this straight," he said; and I slid my fingers from my eyes. "The grass pays you for cutting it?"

Hands still over my mouth, I nodded.

"That's…" Link chuckled, "that's just- fucking ridiculous!" he laughed.

"I know!" I agreed before I snorted and started another laughing fit. But this time Link joined me.

I watched through damp eyes as he sat up and placed one hand over his eyes and the other across his abdomen.

We continued to laugh, and we laughed loud and hard and unburdened for what felt like hours.

We couldn't stop- until there was a loud banging on our door, accompanied by the shrill voice of a woman, screaming at us to keep it down as there were those who were getting married in the morning and in need of their beauty sleep!

Link and I sobered right up.

"Think that was the bride?" I whispered.

"Must've been," Link whispered back. We looked at each other then started to snicker.

"Shh…" I waved my hands. "We don't want her to come back."

"Alright, alright," Link snorted. Then he fell back onto his bed and sighed. "I wonder if Zelda has ever heard about companions?" he said quietly.

"That's a little random," I said as I turned onto my left shoulder to face him.

He smiled, then flipped onto his side to face me, propping his head into his right hand. "It's been on my mind since you told me."

"Oh?" I questioned.

"It's just- It's nice to know that I'm not alone in all this," he answered.

I gave him a soft smile as my heart fluttered at his honesty.

As I stared at his shadowed face I found myself wanting more and more for the distance between us to just disappear. I wanted to see his darkened eyes more clearly; and I wanted to feel if his hair was as soft as it looked; and-

Then Link laughed, snapping me out of my reverie.

"Shad is going to have a field day when he learns about this," he said with amusement.

"Yeah," I agreed with a giggle. Then I suddenly had a chilling thought and pushed myself up onto my elbow. "Wait… you're not going to tell everyone that I'm not an oracle, are you?"

He blinked. "Well… I think they have a right to know the tru-"

"No!" I sat up again. "No, no, no, please you can't! You can't tell them."

"Why?" he asked, giving me a wary look.

"Because no one will listen to me if they learn that I don't talk to your gods."

"You don't know that."

"No?" I questioned, raising my eyebrows. "At our first meeting no one heard a word I said. Not until I gave in and claimed to be an oracle. If they knew it was all a lie… Well, I don't even want to think about what would happen," I grimaced.

"But you're a Hero's companion. That has to have some leverage?"

I took a deep breath. "Not the same type of leverage I have as an oracle," I said softly in earnest.

Link stared at me, shadowed eyes unblinking; then he rolled onto his back and looked at the ceiling. "I don't like the idea of lying to my friends," he said.

I laid back down with a sigh. "I made a promise, at the very beginning, that if this oracle thing got too far out of hand I would stop. Lose the gift then and there."

"Who did you promise?" he asked.

"Parker; and myself."

He turned his head to face me. "Will you promise me, too?"

This time I didn't hesitate. "Yes."

He gave me a small smile.

"So, you'll be okay with me still posing as an oracle?" I inquired gently.

He inhaled deeply, then nodded. "Yeah," he assured. Then he yawned.

"I think it's time we went to sleep," I smiled.

"I think so," he agreed. "Goodnight, Del."

"Goodnight, Link."

I turned over to my other side, adjusted the covers around my shoulders, and watched the rolling clouds stream by until my eyes grew heavy and I gave into the peaceful dark.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoO

I woke up to someone shaking my shoulder.

I opened my eyes and was met with Link's dark blue; their brightness eclipsed by concern that had me sitting up quickly.

"What happened? What's wrong?" I mumbled over a thick tongue.

"You were crying," Link said softly.

"What?" I questioned.

"In your sleep," he answered.

Shocked, I touched my face. My cheeks were covered with the gritty residue of dried tears; which were reconstituted as a few fresh ones fell from the corner of my eyes.

"Do you remember what you were dreaming about?" Link asked as he took a seat on his bed.

"No, I don't- I," but suddenly I did as my dream came rushing back, so vivid I could've sworn it was happening right before me. "I was dreaming about my mom," I recounted softly. "She was searching for me, calling out my name, crying for me. And- and I was there but she couldn't see me. I was behind this… this barrier, and I could see her but she couldn't see me, couldn't hear me no matter how much I screamed, or how much I pounded on the barrier. Then she stopped…" my eyes started to water, "and she walked away." I couldn't stop the tears from falling as I looked at Link. "I was right there… I was right there in front of her, but sh- she didn't see me. She didn't see me…"

I don't know exactly how it happened but one moment I was sitting on my bed and then the next I was standing on the floor, wrapped tightly in Link's arms.

"Please don't cry," Link hushed softly into my ear. "I promise that you'll see your mother again," he vowed.

His voice held such conviction that all I could do was nod as a fresh wave of tears stung at my eyes. I managed to choke out a broken "Thank you" as I encircled Link's waist with my arms and held him as tightly as I dared; taking comfort in his strength, and his warmth, and his encompassing presence. It felt wonderful being held by him; and I found it increasingly difficult not to melt away.

But after a couple of minutes I decided it was time to break our embrace. Any longer pressed against his firm chest and I would've dissolved completely into him. With an inward sigh I released his waist and took a step back.

Link's arms slid across my back and landed on my shoulders, where he held me in place. I stared at him as he placed a hand on my cheek and gently brushed his thumb under my eye. Then he leaned forward and kissed my forehead.

I forgot how to breathe.

He straightened, lowering his arms to his sides as he smiled kindly. "How about we get some breakfast?"

"Sur- sure," I rasped, trying to speak and inhale at the same time. "We didn't miss it?" I asked, my voice a little airy.

"No," he shook his head. "If anything we might be too early," he said as he walked over to the chairs.

"What time is it?" I questioned, my forehead tingling as I turned to look out the large window. The skies were still grey but the clouds looked thinned.

"Sunrise was about half an hour ago," Link answered as he gathered his stuff.

I grimaced. "Sorry."

He looked at me and raised an eyebrow. "For what?"

"For waking you so early."

He snorted. "Just because I love to sleep doesn't mean I can't function without it."

"Duly noted," I said with a nod.

A smile cracked on his lips and he shook his head softly. Then he pointed towards the bathroom. "Do you mind?" he questioned.

"Not at all," I replied, permitting him to use the facilities first.

"Thanks," and he walked to the bathroom and closed the door behind him.

I sank onto my bed.

He kissed me…

… Link actually kissed-

Okay, well technically he kissed my forehead, but…

He kissed me…

As I sat motionless, my heart started up again- pounding so fast that it purred in my chest, composing a vibrating tune that resonated throughout my entire body.

It hummed-

He kissed you, he kissed you, he needs to kiss you again and he needs to kiss you for real…

My body trembled; and that's when my head stepped in-

Okay, receiving a forehead kiss from Link was amazing. But, Del... that kiss was just a simple and kind gesture given to you from a friend. You can't think of it as anything more...

And this time I had to side with my head.

If I want to get me and my friends home I'd have to remain single minded on what has to be done: Collect all the pieces of the glaive and take the Triforce of Power from Ganon.

I'd have to be resolute in that plan.

I'd have to nip this inkling in my heart right in the bud before it turns into something true- and irreversible.

Suddenly, Link re-emerged from the bathroom, clothed once again in his green tunic- looking every bit like the embodiment of the Chosen Hero- and my stomach flipped.

I felt my inkling quake and a hairline fracture crack in my resolve.

My head sighed-

…girl, you're in trouble.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoO

Fifteen minutes later, Link and I were down in the dinner room waiting for our breakfast.

As it turned out we weren't too early for a meal- since the inn's workers were already up and about preparing for the wedding.

I led us back to the same table as last night, the one next to the fire place. It may've stopped raining today, but it was a chilly morning.

"You have Zelda's letter?" Link asked as he sat down, placing his shield and sword (wrapped in his poncho) on the floor, between the wall and table for safe keeping.

"Yup," I confirmed, patting the area of my stomach where I had the letter resting under my armor once again. Then I sat down and placed my own stuff onto the floor beside me.

"Good," he said then looked away towards the empty room. After a moment he returned his eyes to me. "So…"

I chuckled under my breath. "Is that your subtle way of letting me know you're going to ask a game question?"

He gave me a sheepish smile. "You mentioned before-" but he stopped as the dark-eyed girl came to our table and handed us our breakfast.

It looked like scrambled eggs and veggies with a large, warm bun on the side. I was about to take a bite when the girl cleared her throat. I looked up at her.

"Breakfast is 2 rupees each," she said.

"Right," Link remembered, and he reached for his money pouch and handed her four green rupees.

She took the money then turned on her heel and marched away.

"You mentioned before, at the meeting," Link repeated, "that in the games you play as me. Why?"

"I still can't believe you remember me saying that," I said, impressed. "The gamer, which would be someone like me, plays as you because you have a story to tell. You hold one third of the Triforce and are tasked by the gods to save Hyrule. It's a thrilling adventure," I smiled.

"How does someone play as me?"

I paused and pursed my lips, thinking. "Umm… you know the pictures that Parker took after we got the Master Sword?"

"The instant portraits?"

I nodded. "Well, in my world we have the ability to make those pictures move. And in a game with moving pictures we can control the actions of the people in them. So, for your games the player controls the actions and movement of a "picture you". Does- does that make any kind of sense?"

"Not really, no," he said, scratching the base of his ear. "But for now, let's just say that it did and I understand what you're telling me. What do people in your world do with- uh, the 'picture me'?"

"They'd move him all across Hyrule, finding hidden artifacts, completing temple quests and puzzles, battle enemies, defeat Ganon and save the world." I paused to take a mouthful of breakfast.

"And you did that too? Moved the 'picture me' around Hyrule?"

I swallowed my food. "I did," then I chuckled as I stabbed more breakfast onto my fork, "but I was never really good at it. I made him die a lot. Parker was the one with the controller skills." I took a bite; and another; and another. Then I glanced up; and almost choked.

The look on his face was priceless. His dark blue eyes were large as he gaped at me.

I had to stifle a laugh. "Link…?" I questioned.

He blinked a couple times before he said, "You can kill me in your games?"

"The picture you," I reminded him. "And yes, he can die. But he always came back to life."

"What? How?"

"Restarting the game, or having fairies," I said. "And then there are potions, milk-"

"Milk?" he exclaimed, looking at me as if I was insane.

"Yeah," I nodded slowly.

"Milk brings the 'picture me' back to life?"

I shook my head. "I was going to say that milk helps restore his life. You'd get him to drink it on the brink of death and it'd bring his health back up."

He snorted softly. "Okay, fairies I can believe; but milk…" he shook his head in disbelief.

I smiled. "It's a game, Link. And games don't have to follow the conventional rules of real life."

"But… milk…?"

"Okaaay," I chuckled, "I think it's time for us to finish eating our breakfast before it gets any colder."

Link exhaled sharply. "Yeah, fine…" and started eating.

I managed to get a couple of mouthfuls in before Link started talking again.

"There's one thing I don't get," he said, pushing his food around his plate.

I sighed under my breath. "And that is…?"

"If you caused the 'picture me' to die a lot in the games, but Parker didn't… then why isn't Parker my companion? Wouldn't there be a better chance of him keeping me alive if he was?"

My mouth fell open.

He gave me a wide-toothed grin before taking a bite of his food.

"Oh, that's just mean," I sneered as I picked up a slimy vegetable and whipped it at his head.

He dodged it easily and watched as it sailed behind him, landing on the nearby table. Then he turned back to me. "I bet Parker could've hit me with that."

"You're a jerk..." I chuckled- contemplating whether I wanted to test how fast he was against a flying plate- when a middle-aged man with a rounded back and a sweet smile approached us.

"How are the two of you this morning?" he asked.

"Good, thank you," I responded, hiding my thoughts of vengeance with a smile of my own.

"I trust that your sleep was peaceful?"

Link and I both nodded.

"Wonderful, wonderful," the man beamed. "If you have not already guessed, we are hosting a wedding today. I am happy to hear that last night's extra noise was not a bother."

"Not at all," I said, giving Link a knowing look as I'm sure our uncontrollable laughter was a part of that "extra noise".

The man politely inclined his head. "The wedding is to start in a couple of hours; and the entire village is to attend. You two are more than welcome to join us in celebration. There is to be a feast, and drinks, and dancing. You may even keep your room for the day- free of charge."

"Thank you for the invitation," Link said courteously. "But I'm afraid we have somewhere we need to be."

"Very well," the man smiled. "Shall I prepare your horses, then?"

Link nodded. "Please."

The man inclined his head once more then shuffled off, heading down the corridor to the front room.

"That was really sweet of him," I said, looking at Link. "Are strangers usually invited to weddings?"

"I'm not sure. I've never been to one," he said, shrugging. Then he stood and walked around the table to stand in front of me. He held out his hand. "Truce?"

I eyed him for a second before I exhaled softly through my nose and stood. I reached for his hand- then feinted and jabbed him in the arm.

"Ow," Link chuckled, rubbing the spot of abuse.

"Now we can call a truce," and I held out my hand.

Link took it. "Fair enough," and we shook.

"Good." Then I sat back down with the full intention of finishing my breakfast.

Link did the same; and after we were done we grabbed our things and headed to the front room, then out the front door.

My eyes squinted in the morning light as the glittering sun pierced through soft pink clouds in streams of burnt and blush golds. I marveled at the scenery as the entire village gleamed in a hue of dusty rose.

"It's going to be a beautiful day," I heard Link say from beside me.

I looked at him and smiled. "Yeah, I think you're right."

He smiled back, his eyes lingering on mine for a moment before he turned and headed towards the side of the inn. I followed behind (ignoring my racing heart), but came to a stop when the inn keeper suddenly showed up with Epona and Suna in tow.

"Here we are," he said as he handed both sets of reins to Link. "Such fine horses," he complemented, giving Suna a pat on the neck.

"Thank you," Link said. "And thank you for your hospitality."

The man bowed politely. "Please come see us again." Then he shuffled off and disappeared behind the building.

Link and I took a moment to equip our gear- Link placing the Master Sword on his back and hooking his shield onto Epona's saddle, while I quickly buckled Colin's sword around my waist.

It was still rather chilly outside, so I decided to continue wearing my poncho for warmth. Link, on the other hand, folded his up and stuck it inside Epona's satchel.

Then we mounted the horses and began jogging down the hill back to the main road and towards the narrow forest path.

The woods were dim as we entered, but not dark. There was no need for my light as we made our way through the trees, swiftly following the trail before exiting back into the field. Link guided us to the left and then quickly set us galloping up the road.

The heady scent of petrichor perfumed the world as we rode over the damp field; and I took a deep breath in, allowing the freshness of the earth to fill my lungs.

As we resumed making our way northward I watched as the landscape changed around us. Ocher flatlands- which shimmered in the rays of the emerging sun like multifaceted diamonds- gave way to small hillocks of mossy stone and wild shrubs the colour of mahogany.

The road continued on for a ways, weaving in and around the large viridian-spotted boulders; until we reached a fork in the path that split into two.

Link veered Epona to the left, and I followed behind.

It wasn't long before the hillocks and shrubs started to transform into grassy hills and willowy trees- the former continuously growing in height and size, as the latter grew thickly in numbers. The further we went the more the willowy branches started to entwine, creating a dense tunnel of hanging leaves high above us.

Suddenly, the arched foliage broke apart, and Link and I found ourselves out in the open, passing under another archway- one made of chiselled granite and cobblestone.

"Link, stop!" I shouted as I pulled on Suna's reins. I quickly dismounted and ran to the side of the bridge, placing my hands on the rail and looking down below.

He rushed up beside me. "What's wrong?"

"This is the Bridge of Hylia, isn't it?"

"It is."

"The Water Temple is down there," I said as I gazed at the large body of water beneath us.

"Where?" he asked; and I saw him look over the rail from the corner of my eye.

"Somewhere at the bottom of the lake," I generalized as I scanned the opaque surface of the steel blue pool.

We both searched in silence; until I saw him turn towards me from my periphery.

I looked up and saw him smiling softly.

"What…?" I questioned with narrowed eyes.

"Oracle or not, you don't cease to amaze me."

I snorted softly as a shy smile broke onto my lips.

"Let's keep going," Link said.

We remounted Epona and Suna, and set off. Their hooves cracked against the cobblestone as we raced across the bridge and under the second archway, where we continued back onto the road, following it up as it led us straight into the lush emerald hills.

The air was different here, surrounded by all this green. It was sweet and dewy- almost tropical but without the heat.

As we made our way further into the hills multiple cave-like tunnels started appearing along the path: some short and dark, with drizzles of icy water; others long and illuminated, with broken ceilings that let in bright chlorophyll light.

After emerging from a ceiling-less tunnel I started to hear the ambient sound of falling water, and listened as it grew louder and louder the higher we climbed.

Soon the thundering crash of a waterfall overtook the sound of galloping hooves as we rounded a wide bend in the road.

Link signaled us to stop.

"I think we're here," he breathed.

I looked at the waterfall in front of us and my body shivered in awe.

Nestled against the rolling cliff side of the emerald hills, standing as tall as a skyscraper and just as wide, was a giant waterfall. Shades of aqua and turquoise spilled over the top edge and into a frothing pool below, the colours swirling together to make a teal so beautiful it was practically incandescent. From the pool, the newly shaded water flowed onward, turning into a broad river that rushed through the landscape, eventually curving and disappearing amongst the trees.

However, it wasn't the waterfall that took my breath away. It was what's around it.

Lining the crystalline water was the most spectacular set of outdoor hallways carved within the rock of the hills. The emerald vegetation was cleared away, and the exposed rock gleamed like blue opal, flecked with phosphorescent pinks and greens that glowed through the rising mists. Two identical hallways, each starting at the base of the falls, bowed outwards on either side, climbing up and up before they curved inward and disappeared behind the falling water.

"Wow… It certainly doesn't look like this in the games," I said as I slowly dismounted.

"What does it look like?" Link asked.

"Not like this," was all I could answer.

Link dismounted, adjusted the Master Sword across his shoulder, then grabbed the Hylian Shield and placed it on his back.

I decided to remove my poncho (as the air wasn't as chilly anymore) and quickly folded it before adding it to Epona's satchel. Then I stood next to Link.

"Ready?" he asked.

"Ready," I nodded.

Leaving the horses to graze, Link and I made our way to the cavernous opening to the side of the waterfall.

As we approached we were suddenly stopped by a massive splash that erupted from the pool. A tall figure of alabaster and pale blue landed before us; water and mist raining over it as if they were a shield.

My breath hitched as I felt a pressure grow in my chest.

"Oh my god, you're a Zora…" I breathed, staring.

"And you're a human who's trespassing," the Zora said in a deep voice. Then his black eyes shifted to the side. "Remove your hand from your sword, Hylian," he warned.

I felt the pressure in my chest increase uncomfortably. Puzzled, I looked down and saw that the sensation wasn't coming from me, but from the spear head that was pressed against me. I swallowed nervously as I looked at Link, watching as he slowly lowered his hand away from the hilt of the Master Sword.

"What business do you have here?" the Zora questioned.

"We're here to talk to your queen," Link said quickly.

The Zora sneered. "One doesn't simply pop in on the Zora queen without a reason."

"We need to talk to your queen about the Glaive of Souls," Link explained.

"Never heard of it," the Zora said, his black eyes narrowing dangerously.

"Princess Zelda sent us," I tried, bringing his focus back to me. "We have a letter."

The Zora's eyes widened then blinked. "The princess is alive?"

I nodded, taking a tentative step back. When the Zora didn't follow me with his spear I took one more step (for distance) and then reached under my armor and pulled out the letter. "See," I said, holding out the envelope so the Wingcrest emblem was visible.

The Zora lowered his spear to the ground then took the letter from my hand. "No one has seen or heard from the princess in a long time…" he said as he examined the paper.

"So you thought she was dead?" I questioned.

"A natural assumption given the state of our world, I'm afraid. But one we hoped was wrong." He paused; then said, "This is… This is real, isn't it?"

"It is," I confirmed. "And we need to give it to the Zora queen."

The Zora stared at the letter; and I watched as his demeanor softened.

He nodded once then said. "Names?"

"I'm Link, and this is Del," Link introduced.

The Zora inclined his head in acknowledgement then said, "Follow me," and turned and walked through the entrance of the hallway.

"Are you okay?" Link asked quietly as we followed behind the Zora.

"Yeah," and I gave him a reassuring smile. Then I directed my attention to the Zora. "What's your name?" I asked at his back.

The Zora turned his head and looked at me. "Phin," he said after a moment.

"Phin?" I repeated, raising my eyebrows. "How… appropriate," I said; then grimaced at how lame that was.

I heard Link chuckle under his breath.

Phin blinked, and I saw the corner of his mouth rise before he turned his head forward and continued to lead us up the steady incline of the opaled hall.

As we climbed upward, the wide pillared openings allowed ample daylight to beam through, turning the opalescent flecks of pinks and greens into millions of neon lights; which then shimmered and winked like stars as the mist from the falls softly floated in and coated the walls.

It wasn't long before I started to feel the prickly beginnings of perspiration forming on my back; however, the incline began to ease off before I really broke out into a sweat. I took a couple of breaths to return my breathing to normal; then looked out to see our progress.

We were nearing the top of the waterfall.

We continued on a bit more; until Phin halted us with his spear as another Zora materialized before us.

"Phin, what are you doing away from your post?" the female Zora questioned. "Rotation isn't for another two hours." Then she spotted Link and I. "Who are they?"

"Messengers," he answered. "They have a letter for our queen."

"A letter?" the female Zora said, unimpressed. "You left your post for a letter?"

"It's from Princess Zelda," Phin pressed, as if that fact alone was important enough.

Her bright coral face looked surprised.

"Cover for me?" Phin asked.

The female Zora groaned. "Fine. But you owe me." She walked away and turned to the right, disappearing down a corridor before emerging after a moment with a spear of her own. Then she quickly marched past us, eyeing Link and I as she went.

"Don't fall behind," Phin warned as he started walking without us.

Link and I quickly caught up.

"Do you know Princess Zelda?" I questioned.

"Why do you ask?" Phin inquired.

"You had the same look of surprise as your friend, when we told you Zelda was alive. But you also looked relieved," I pointed out.

"I'm charged as the princess' guard when she comes to visit Zora's Domain," he answered as we veered left towards the waterfall, the hallway finally flattening out beneath our feet.

I looked at Link; then laughed. "Oh, I'm sure Nobu is a big fan of that," I said sarcastically.

Link chuckled; but so did Phin.

"He's not," Phin snorted.

Link and I laughed again.

"Princess Zelda has always been very kind to me. To all of us. I'm thankful she's alright," Phin said.

I was about to respond when I cut myself off, my mouth falling open as we entered behind the waterfall.

At that point the path of the hall split in two; and I quickly sidestepped Phin and Link- following the left-hand path that continued across the back of the falls- and paused as I stood looking down upon a cavernous grotto. Bright shadows beneath the surface of the water caught my attention; and I watched with excited eyes as many Zoras skimmed lazily beneath the waves.

Multiple bridges of different lengths and directions arched over the cyan blue lagoon; continuing upwards as they connected walking Zoras to additional hallways that were set deep into the cave's luminous walls.

My wide gaze traveled high to the top of the grotto; and I couldn't help but gawk with fascination at it. Rushing water from the falls coursed over a clear ceiling; while the light from the glinting sun refracted through, creating ripples of rainbow light that danced all around the domain.

"Follow me," Phin's voice repeated; and it took me a moment to pull myself away from the sight to rejoin him and Link.

But I did, and I quickly fell into step behind Link as Phin took us up the right-hand path that led into another hallway within the rock face of the cave.

We continued straight; until we came upon a dead end wall with a doorway cut into the stone and a spiraling staircase inside. We followed Phin up the dizzying flights of stairs, watching as the light went from bright to dim as we climbed. As we neared the top, the staircase became dark, only to lighten again as we stepped onto a landing that led us into a rectangular room filled with blue light. The long walls were the cause of the tranquil aesthetic, resembling panes of thick cobalt glass- which reflected the flickering blue flames of the torches that were set all around the room.

I imagined this is what being inside a blue bottle looked like.

"Wait here," Phin ordered; then made his way across the floor over to a set of high double doors, each intricately laced with filigree that resembled waves.

Two muscular Zoras stood guard of the doors; both wearing fish head helmets and holding spear-like battle axes. As Phin approached one of them grunted, "State your business."

Phin spoke to them in a low voice, and after a moment the two guards stepped to the side and Phin slipped through the doors.

"What did he say?" I asked Link quietly.

"What we told him: That we have a letter from Zelda to give to their queen," he replied.

I took a deep breath. "I hope we don't have to wait long."

Link nodded in agreement.

I fell silent for a moment as I stared at the double doors; then my gaze lowered to the two Zora guards.

"Think their job is boring?" I whispered, leaning close to Link.

He snickered quietly before answering. "Oh yeah, -" and he was about to say something more when the doors reopened and Phin walked back in, looking a little breathless.

"That was fast," Link remarked.

"Ask and you shall receive," I grinned.

"The queen and king will see you now," Phin said.

I blinked in shock. "Wait? The king?"

Phin gave me a harshly judgmental look. "Of course. Our queen greatly respects the advice of her king." Then he turned and re-entered the other room.

Link raised a questioning eyebrow.

"Uh, the king is actually dead in the game," I whispered as quietly as I could. "And come to think of it, so is the queen," I remembered.

Link looked at me, worried. "I wouldn't mention any of that if I were you."

I crossed my arms and gave him a deadpanned look. "Seriously? How stupid do you think I am?"

He crossed his arms and gave me a knowing look.

"Alright, mister… I am this close to letting you die on this adventure," I quipped.

He grinned. "You'll be sad if you do."

"Not at first," I smirked.

Someone cleared their throat.

"The Zora queen and king do not like to be kept waiting," Phin stated, lowering the tip of his spear slightly.

Sensing the threat, Link and I quickly made our way to the door and followed Phin inside.

We entered into an elaborately designed hall, with high walls made of the same cobalt glass, and wide arches of the same wave-like filigree interspersed over a waterway that ran right through the middle of the floor.

I stuck close to Link, feeling a little nervous and unable to figure out why.

Maybe… maybe I am afraid I'll say something stupid… Something that'll jeopardize this entire mission…

I tried to swallow the lump forming in my throat- only to fail as my mouth fell open for the third time today as we entered into the Zora's throne room.

The room was circular (just like the game); and grand in both diameter and height. The curved walls maintained with the theme of thick cobalt glass; however, towering pillars of blue opal lined the circumference, their phosphorescent hues glowing brightly in the flaring light of multiple white-flamed torches. A rippling pool of silver water swelled from the center of the floor, lazily lapping at the raised ledges that surrounded it, before ebbing away and flowing down the open hall.

And there, situated just behind the pool and central to the room, were three high thrones (made from what looked like cloudy white stone); and each throne was occupied by a member of the royal family.

The queen sat in the middle, tall and stately in a shade of blush pink. To her right was the umber coloured prince, feet tucked under him as he leaned against his chair in boredom. And to her left was the Zora king…

He didn't resemble the king from Ocarina of Time; nor did he resemble the Zoras from this world. He looked completely new. His garnet colouring was bold along his body- which was a lot more angular than the other Zoras, especially around his forehead and chin.

He reminded me of something- something I couldn't quite put my finger on. But whatever that something was it went hand-in-hand with the word sharp.

Just then, the king's obsidian eyes flicked towards me; and I quickly looked away, hoping that he didn't catch me staring.

Phin led Link and I around to the front of the pool, where he stopped and bowed to his sovereigns.

Link and I politely did the same.

"Your majesties: Queen Rutela, King Sai, and Prince Ralis. May I introduce Del and Link, Princess Zelda's messengers," Phin addressed.

"Oh, they are so much more than messengers," Queen Rutela said, holding Zelda's letter in front of her. "Isn't that right, Chosen Hero and Oracle of the gods?"

Phin looked back at us with wide eyes and I gave him a small smile.

"Yes, your majesty," Link answered.

"Wow…! Are you really the Chosen Hero?" Prince Ralis asked, perking up in his chair.

"I am," Link confirmed.

His eyes lit up. "Mom! Did you hear that? It's really him!" Then he looked back at Link. "I've read all about the other heroes and-"

"Hush now, my darling," the queen chided softly.

The prince crossed his arms, visibly deflating as he slumped back into his chair.

"My son is not the only one to have read about the Heroes chosen by the gods," the queen said as she folded Zelda's letter. "Your incarnations have helped the Zoras many times in the past," she acknowledged. "However, an oracle of the goddesses…?" she looked me straight in the eyes. "That I have never heard of."

My mouth went dry.

"Why don't we test her?" I heard the king say.

I turned to look at him and saw him staring directly at me. Then he smiled wide, revealing a set of pointed teeth.

I paused as I finally realized what he reminded me of…

A shark.

"A test?" the queen repeated, placing her hand under her chin. "Very well," she agreed.

I took a deep breath, trying to calm my nerves.

You got this, Del…

"In this letter, your princess mentions an artifact that you are in need of collecting." The queen's eyes narrowed. "If it is among the Zoras, where would it be hidden?"

I took a deep breath; then looked at Link.

His brows were furrowed in slight worry.

I gave him a small smile that told him 'I got this'.

Then I faced forward and closed my eyes.

I stood completely still and kept completely quite as I sifted through my memories of the Water Temple. And after I had a few clear pictures in my mind I spoke. "The goddesses aren't speaking to me in words… but in images. I see… stairs… moving from side to side; water levels rising and falling…. A large hole, and a long drop… and a crea-"

"Stop," I heard the queen say; and I opened my eyes to see hers wide with surprise. "I am convinced," she said, her eyes softening as she gazed at me. Then she bowed her head. "Please, accept my apology for doubting you, and the gods."

"There's no apology needed," I assured. However, it was with false modesty as my ego sang in triumph at passing her test.

The queen gave me a gentle smile; then she reopened the letter. "So, Princess Zelda is in need of a blade belonging to a weapon she believes can defeat Ganon. Is this true?"

"Yes," Link and I said together.

"And what makes you sure this blade is resting within the walls of our sacred temple?" the king questioned.

"We were given three sets of riddles from the last descendant of the Sheikah," I said. "The answer to one was 'a temple found at the bottom of a lake'."

"It is true that long ago the Sheikah entrusted my ancestors with protecting a powerful object of theirs," the queen confirmed before sitting up a little straighter. "Tell me, Chosen Hero and Oracle of the goddesses? Do you also believe that this weapon can destroy Ganon?"

Link and I looked at each other confidently before turning back to the queen.

"Yes, your majesty. We do," Link said.

"Then I will grant you entrance to our Lakebed Temple," she said regally. "My love?" she addressed, turning to her husband and stroking the side of his face in a loving manner.

The king smiled widely at her then rose from his throne.

I watched with wide eyes as his figure grew to a hulking size; and continued to grow as his frame loomed its way over to Link and I.

Craning my head back so I could see his face, King Sai stopped in front of us before walking over to Link and circling around him.

I had a sudden vision of a shark circling its prey.

The king's eyes roved Link up and down a few times before he set those obsidian eyes on me.

His gaze was intense as he began to circle around me, looking at every line and curve of my body. My first reaction was to cross my arms over my chest; however, I pushed that urge aside, believing that the king was doing what he was doing for a reason.

I just hoped that that reason would be over soon.

Once again my prayers were answered and the Zora king finally stepped away.

"Give me two hours, my queen," he said, turning to face her.

Queen Rutela gave him a sweet smile and inclined her head.

The Zora king bowed, then stepped around me and dove into the silvery pool, disappearing down the flow of the water.

"Phin, please escort our guest to the sitting area; and make sure they are tended to," the queen ordered.

Phin bowed his head then motioned for us to follow him.

Link and I quickly bowed to Queen Rutela and Prince Ralis before trailing Phin as he walked to the left of the throne room and opened a small filigreed door set into one of the curved panels of the wall.

He led us inside a small and cozy room, filled with fancy high back chairs and chaise lounges. There was a tiny fire sparking within an iron grate in the far corner, which casted a warm glow all over the mother-of-pearl walls.

"Make yourselves comfortable," Phin said kindly. "I'll return shortly," and he left, closing the door behind him.

"And now we wait," I sighed, making my way over to a particularly comfy looking chaise.

"What are we waiting for, exactly?" Link questioned.

"The Zora Armor," I answered as I plunked down on the chaise- only to be almost tossed off. "What the- Oh my god, this is a water chair," I laughed, rising up and down as the liquid sloshed underneath me.

"Really?" Link smiled, walking over and taking a seat. I rose up then sank back down, causing Link to rise. "So, what does the Zora Armor do again?" he asked as the two of us bobbed like buoys.

"It helps you breathe underwater; and makes you swim faster." I answered. Then I paused, bobbing for a moment before I said quietly, "I'd consider us really lucky that the Zora king is still alive; otherwise, it'd probably be a solo mission for you."

"Why do you say that?"

"The Zora king is the one who makes the armor. And from what I remember of the game, he's the only one who knows how. So, if he wasn't here then there'd be no armor for me."

"Wouldn't I be without armor, too?"

I smiled and shook my head. "No, I'm pretty confident there'd be one set of Zora Armor left- and it would be just your size."

He looked away and rubbed the back of his neck. "That makes no sense."

I laughed. "You're destined to save Hyrule, Link. So, you shouldn't doubt that the world will provide you with the things you need to do so."

A soft smile formed on his lips. "Yeah, I suppose you're right," he said, his eyes returning to mine. There was a boldness in them that trapped my gaze to his; freezing me where I sat. He shifted his body a little closer to me- and I suddenly bobbed upwards. As I sank Link rose up; and we started laughing as we were buoying again.

Just then the door opened and Phin walked back in, followed by an elderly Zora who was pushing a tea cart.

"Something to eat or drink?" the old Zora asked as he stopped the cart right in front of Link and I.

"Thank you," Link said as he reached for a shell-like goblet.

I grabbed a small piece of food that looked like a chestnut.

"What is this?" I asked.

"Water bean," the old Zora said. "You'll want to peel it first," he added quickly, stopping me from putting the bean in my mouth. "The shell isn't edible."

"Oh…" I said, my cheeks becoming a little warm.

"Here, allow me," and the Zora took the bean, pressed both of his thumbs in the center, and cracked the shell. Then he handed it back to me.

"Thanks," I smiled, peeling the shell away and popping the fleshy bean into my mouth. It had a watery crunch, similar to a water chestnut, and a strong almond-like taste. I picked up another.

Link and I ate in silence- peeling water beans and drinking sweet-tasting water; and when we were done the elderly Zora took the cart and rolled it away.

Phin went to close the door behind him, but it was pushed back open as the Zora prince strode into the room.

"Prince Ralis," Phin bowed, still holding the door.

"It's okay, Phin. My mom knows I'm here. You can shut the door," the prince said.

Phin nodded his head then closed the door completely.

Prince Ralis turned towards us; and Link and I stood, bowing.

Then the prince grinned widely. "I can't believe you're here! I can't believe I get to meet a real Chosen Hero, like the ones in my history book!"

Link smiled kindly.

"Who's your favourite hero?" the prince questioned excitedly.

"Uh, I don't know much about them, I'm afraid," Link said apologetically.

"Wait, are you saying that you don't know any history of the other heroes?" Prince Ralis questioned, gobsmacked.

Link shook his head. "Not really."

The prince's face lit up. "I'll go grab my book! That way I can teach you!" and he ran towards the door, Phin barely opening it in time as he raced out shouting, "Mom! MOM! Where did I put my Hero's Historia book?"

"Oh my god, he's adorable," I said at the door. Then I turned to Link. "I remember being that excited when I first met you."

"You were?" he blinked.

"Of course I was!" I laughed. "You were one of my childhood heroes, too." Then I sighed dramatically. "Although, I gotta say I'm a little envious that the prince got a better first impression of you."

He gave me a lopsided smile. Then his head turned forward as something caught his attention. "You should probably open the door, Phin," he said.

"Why?" Phin asked.

"Because the prince is coming towards it. Fast."

Phin blinked, then opened the door just in time for the Zora prince to come rushing into the room and skidding loudly to a halt in front of Link and I. He teetered forward, arms circling wildly before he rocked back onto his feet and held up a red book in both hands.

"Found it!" the prince beamed. "Come sit next to me so we can read it together!" He grabbed Link's hand and pulled him towards two high back chairs, pushing them side-by-side and resting the book on top of the armrests.

As I sat back on the chaise I decided to take advantage of having it to myself. I stretched out my legs along the watery cushion and laid down, listening to Link and the prince as I relaxed.

"What hero do you want to learn about first?" Prince Ralis asked.

"Who would you like to teach me about?" Link answered.

"The Hero of Time! He's my favourite."

I heard the sound of pages flipping.

"Did you know that he was the same age as me when he destroyed his first monster?"

"Oh yeah?" Link said, intrigued.

I yawned deeply.

"Yup! Gohma, the Armored Arachnid," the prince said in an eerie voice.

My eyes started to feel heavy.

"A kid was able to kill this thing?" Link exclaimed in shock.

I heard Prince Ralis laugh; then I felt someone shake my shoulder.

My eyes opened to two blurry shapes: one green and one red. I blinked a few times, clearing my vision; then jolted upright, sitting face-to-face with a grinning shark.

"Did you sleep well?" the Zora king asked.

"Ye- yes," I stuttered, staring at his pointed teeth.

The king nodded then pulled his face away from mine. "I thought as much. There is no better way to sleep than to sleep on water," he proclaimed proudly. "Now then, for the matter at hand," and he walked over to a side table next to the door, picking up a folded piece of material with a pair of high boots placed on top. Then he turned and handed them to me. "Your armor, Lady Oracle."

My lips broke into a wide smile at the honorific.

Then the king went back to the table before turning to Link. "And for you, Lord Hero."

"Thank you, your majesty," Link said, taking the armor.

"Try them on," the king urged. "Let me see my handiwork."

Link and I paused; and when neither of us made a move to change the king sighed.

"Oh right, of course," he slapped a hand to his forehead, "I always forget that your kind aren't comfortable in your natural skin-" he motioned for Phin to walk out the door, "-always covering up-" he closed the door behind him with a snap.

I looked at Link.

He smiled. "You can change first."

"Okay."

He made his way to the door and stepped out.

I placed the boots on the floor and unfolded the material- which turned out to be three separate pieces- and laid them on the chaise as I worked on untying my breastplate. When it was loose enough, I quickly pulled off the leather then stripped down to nothing.

Picking up the largest piece of clothing, I examined it in the glow of the fire. The material was cool like water and soft like silk, flowing fluidly over my hands as it shimmered like thousands of densely pack fish scales. The item was a full length body suit; and I held it up to my body, surprised that it looked to fit my size. I quickly searched for a zipper, or buttons, but found none. I debated whether to ask the Zora king how to get into it; but decided against it as I had a strong feeling that he'd just come waltzing in here to show me.

I looked at it again, this time placing my hands into the opening of the neck and giving it a test stretch.

It had a lot of give.

I placed one foot, then the other, into the neck hole and pulled the suit up and over my body, slipping my arms in easily, and adjusting the neck to sit just under my chin.

The two remaining pieces were a short skirt and a mini, short-sleeved jacket. Both were made of the same navy blue material and had a rougher texture, almost like burlap. I quickly pulled on the skirt- noticing the two long slits on either side of my hips- then put on the jacket.

Everything fit like a glove.

The Zora king certainly knew what he was doing…

I sat down to examine the boots. They were formfitting and long- the shafts of the footwear stopping just under my knees; and made of a deep blue material that felt like soft rubber. The boots came with an interesting decoration sewn over the tops of the toes; each accessory consisting of two identical pieces of a gossamer-like material, and each one furled inwards like two spiraled shells resting against one another.

I put on the boots- each one slipping over my calves with ease- and when I was done I stood up, quickly folded my clothes, then walked to the door and opened it.

"I'm finished," I said to Link.

But he didn't move.

He stood motionless, his dark eyes fixed on me as they moved slowly up and down. Then he lifted his gaze to mine.

A flattered smile grew on my lips.

"Your turn, Lord Hero," incited King Sai.

Link flicked his eyes to the king and nodded. Then he started to walk pass me, but I briefly stopped him. "Just a heads up, you get into the body suit through the neck. The material is really stretchy," I informed him quietly.

"Thanks," he smiled, then entered the sitting room and closed the door.

"Let me take a look," the king said as he pulled me away from the wall and started circling me once again. "Not too bad, if I do say so myself…"

"It's amazing," I praised. "Is there a mirror anywhere?" I inquired, wanting to see what I looked like for myself.

"Of course," the king said, motioning around him with his hand.

At first I was confused. But when I searched around my reflection in the glassy walls caught my eye. I took a few steps closer and stared in awe.

I looked like an otherworldly mermaid with my suit of iridescent scales shimmering over the dips and swells of my body; my black hair cascading like waves over my shoulder from its ponytail; and my eyes shining with a golden luster in the light of the white flames.

"You look like a Zora warrior, Lady Oracle," the king smiled.

"I feel like one," I beamed back.

Just then, the door reopened and out walked Link.

His armor was the same as mine: full length, scaled body suit; decorated rubber boots; mini short-sleeved jacket; and a skirt (which was looser than mine, and made up of large panels that connected above his hips).

Now, it was my turn to look him up and down.

The suit showed off his lean frame; the scales highlighting the lines of hard muscles along his abdomen, arms and legs. I allowed my eyes to linger on his firm chest for a moment before lifting them up to meet Link's.

This time he was the one smiling.

"Another job well done," the Zora king sighed, pulling Link away from the door. "What do you think, my queen?" he asked as he grabbed me by the wrist and dragged both Link and I back towards the thrones.

"Perfect as always, my love," Queen Rutela said with delight.

"Now, to explain how the armor works," King Sai said, facing us. "Ralis?" he called over his shoulder.

The prince emerged from the side of his throne, carrying two bronze items in his arms. He approached his father with a grin and held them out.

"This helmet," the king said, taking one from his son and handing it to Link, "is enchanted to help your eyes see clearly underwater." He handed me the other.

The nasal helmet was surprisingly light as I turned it from side to side, observing the bold detailing carved into the surface of the metal. Multiple lines and circles flowed over the helm, creating a pattern that resembled the face of an ancient water beast. The back of the helmet completed the beastly look with a tail-like piece (made from the same deep blue rubber as our boots) which started from the crown of the head and looked to end just above the nape of the neck.

"Please," the Zora king said, prompting us to put them on.

Once I did, an immediate sensation took over my eyes, almost like the prickling that happens when your foot falls asleep. But as soon as the feeling started, it stopped; and I blinked hard a few times to clear away the tingly memory.

The king smiled. "It's also good to note that the helmets have been enchanted to only be removed by the wearer. So there is no need to worry about losing your sight while submerged. Oh, and speaking of being submerged!" he said as if he just remembered something. "The neck piece of your armor is a mask. The fabric is different from the rest of the suit as it's made to specifically filter the air from the water. Just pull it up over your mouth and nose, and breathe as you would normally."

Intrigued, I grabbed the the neck piece and pulled, stretching it up. I adjusted the edges to sit just below the bridge of my nose, across my cheeks, and down under my ears. Then I blinked in surprise when I felt the fabric adhere to my skin.

"I'm guessing this material is enchanted, too?" I said, my voice sounding a little muffled.

"Indeed," the king grinned. "And, just as the helmet, it can only be removed by the wearer."

I pinched the fabric under my nose and pulled down. The seal on my skin released, and the neck piece slid smoothly away from my face.

Then King Sai turned and walked over to the silver pool. "My Lord Hero, if you could place a foot into the water for me?"

Link gave me a curious look before approaching the pool and stepping down onto the ledge closest to the water. He dipped the toe of his boot in.

"All the way, if you please," the king said.

Link submerged his foot up to the ankle; then called for me to rush over.

I quickly ran up beside him, making it just in time to watch as the decoration on the top of his boot started to unfurl and elongate into two powerful looking fins.

"Now, if you'll remove your foot?"

Link did as the king asked. Almost immediately the fins re-furled inwards, closing tightly into shell-like coils.

"This is incredible," I breathed, placing my own foot into the water and causing the fins to grow. I stared at them for a minute before I pulled my foot out, and watched as the fins instantly curled towards each other once more.

"The fins react to all-or-nothing. Either they are surrounded completely by air or by water, and will not change their current state if they are exposed to both," the king explained. "Everything that you are wearing is meant to keep you safe- and to keep you alive. Your helmet, your mask, and your boots will give you the speed and skills of a Zora in water; while your suit of scales will keep your bodies warm- and impervious to threats." Then he paused as a serious look overtook his face. "There is no telling what vermin have come to inhabit our Lakebed Temple over time."

A small shiver climbed up my back.

"Dad, can I please go with them?" Prince Ralis asked quietly as he grabbed his father's hand. "I won't kill any monsters, I promise!"

King Sai gave him a patient smile. "I'm afraid not, my son."

"Why not?" the prince asked, his voice quivering.

"You are too young."

"But- but the Hero of Time was my age when he killed his first monster!" the prince argued. "And I already promised that I wouldn't kill one!"

Queen Rutela gracefully rose from her throne and glided over to her son. "One day you will have your chance to slay your monsters, my darling," she cooed as she crouched in front of him and placed a loving hand to his face. "But today isn't that day."

The prince took a deep, shuddering breath then nodded.

Then the queen stood. "But it is your day," she said to Link and I. "Chosen Hero, Oracle of the gods. Today is your day to bring forth the beginning of the end to the scourge that plagues Hyrule."

My heart started to pound wildly.

"Ah! Here is it," the Zora king exclaimed, his cheery voice shattering the seriousness that descended upon the room.

He was staring at something down the rivered hallway; and Link and I turned to see what that was.

From the shadows of the entrance hall emerged a small wooden boat, floating up against the flow of the water. It smoothly sailed its way to the middle of the silvery pool, where it abruptly stopped as Phin's upper body surfaced through the soft waves; his hand holding onto a towrope that was attached to the bow of the boat.

"Lady Oracle. Lord Hero," the Zora king addressed with a sharp-toothed grin. "Your chariot awaits…"

---

*dances*

First things first! For any of you A:TLA fans out there, I threw in a little easter egg for you. Hope you enjoyed it ;D

Second things second! I also threw in another LoZ easter egg- a BOTW one. Now, I'm gonna say here that when it comes to BOTW I'm probably going to keep it out of the story continuing on since it was released after I started this. However, I'm a pretty big fan of the timeline theories (plot holes or not) so if I feel like something is relevant (like the egg I placed in this chapter) then I'll do just that.

So, I'm pretty happy with how this one came about. It's a little more dialogue heavy than I originally intended, but I always knew that this one wasn't going to feature the water temple, so I think I did an okay job of making it entertaining without much action. That'll be the next chapter :)

But speaking of action- I just wanted to make a comment here (in case any of you are wondering- or I'm just bringing to light what no one noticed before...) about the lack of creatures when traveling. I'm trying to make this story as "realistic" as I can, and I honestly don't believe that you'd come across hordes of monsters every five minutes in the fields (or maybe you would- who knows...). That's not to say they won't come about because they are a big part of the Zelda universe, it'll just be in times when I need them to to drive the plot forward, hahaha.

So... please review, follow, and fave if you like what you're reading!

~lavender phoenix~