Link remained speechless.
The only clue that they had about this letter was the suggestion from Zelda that it was in another language. How this enigmatic woman who appeared in Hyrule had known this was astounding to him.
Rel shrugged her shoulders.
"Correct me if I'm wrong, but you are looking for a herder's son?"
Link nodded.
"It's written in this letter." She explained. "The herder's son was invited elsewhere. Though, it doesn't say who invited him or where he was invited to."
Blinking a few times, Link gestured for her to hand him the letter.
"What else does it say?" Link asked her.
"The writer says that they found something. What that something is, I don't know." She finished.
Link pondered for a moment.
"That solves one of my problems. Now I have to figure out where he is and who he is with."
Stopping to process the information, Link leaned forward and rested his head on his hand. Rel noticed that he still had a slight tremor, no doubt from their night of drinking.
"Who do you think it could be?" Rel asked him.
"He is a twin." Link murmured. "One could assume-"
"That he would go to see his twin." Rel finished.
"The problem, though, is that I don't know exactly where the brother is. Zelda was vague on the details. All I know is that it is east."
They both fell silent, thinking hard. Rel drummed her fingers on the table in front of her.
"What about his parents?" She wondered out loud. "Why don't you ask them?"
Link had to admit, Rel was making a good point. It would be the most obvious place to start, unless they were to find out exactly where the twin brother was in the records in front of them.
"Wouldn't we just go east?" Link asked her.
"Well, the letter also says he means to return. He's also worried about his parents."
"We have scoured these books and records, hoping to find any clues at all. I am losing my mind over it. I think you may be right."
"Understandable." She replied with a huff. "The fact that your great scholarly friend didn't pick up on the fact that it is a simple cipher… It does not surprise me that you've hit dead end after dead end."
Link turned his head to look at her. He eyed her quizzically, surveying her features.
"How did you know this?" Link asked her, still taken aback.
Rel smiled.
"My tutor. He and I use a cipher."
"And who is your tutor?"
"I am sworn to secrecy at this time." Rel said with a shrug. "I don't break the trust of those who put faith in me so easily."
The throbbing in Link's head had made a comeback. Though it wasn't as intense as earlier, the dull pounding was enough to distract him. He knew he would need to sleep the rest of this off, soon.
"Why didn't I think of that?" Link groaned.
His tremoring was only intensified by his now racing thoughts. Link considered how he was going to start the search for the parents. He knew Ruffilio exceptionally well, it was his childhood home, and he would be able to narrow down the search easily.
"I'll tell Shad in the morning." He said quietly.
"Very well." Rel stated coolly. "I'm sure Shad will be happy to accompany you."
A silence fell over the room. Rel placed the parchment down on the table and flattened it.
"If you need someone who can actually read and translate this, you know where to find me."
Gently brushing past him, Rel stopped and turned to face him. She wore a sly expression. Link forced his eyes open to peek at her.
"You look pleased with yourself." Link joked.
"Here." Rel said coyly. "You might need this."
Link raised an eyebrow at her and gave her a confused look. Rel gently slipped her hand into her trouser pocket and produced a key.
Squinting, Link tried to identify the key. After a few moments, the realization hit him.
"That's my basement key." He stammered, his eyes wide. "How did you get that?"
"It's just a little trick I know." She smiled. "I'll leave it with your clean clothes and bed linen."
Rel turned on her heel and carefully walked up the stairs, leaving Link in the basement.
Link was relieved to wake in his own bed the following morning.
He was still wrapped in the sheet from Rel's room, but he was missing his shirt and his shoes. He'd also thanked his stars that he had a dreamless sleep, as he was not sure if his body could take any more stress. It wasn't very often that he drank to excess, and he absolutely regretted his self-imposed drinking game.
Finally able to think properly, Link went over the conversation he'd had with Rel last night. The revelations, the cipher, the pickpocketing... Who was this woman? After some musing, Link determined that she was either a fugitive who fled or a runaway bride. He kept himself entertained with these scenarios as he looked for clean shirt.
He was dressed rather quickly, eager to rush down to the bar and set this new plan in motion. Link took a seat at the bar counter as Rel worked around him. She was working quietly as Telma chatted to Shad and Ilia, who seemed to be in good spirits.
Rel gave Link a quick glance, acknowledging his presence. It was clear that there was still some lingering tension from the night before, given the gravity of the conversation. Telma also gave Link a quick acknowledgement, smiling warmly at him.
Link watched his friends for a few moments, unsure if he wanted to interrupt them. He could feel a pang of guilt as he observed Shad's happiness with his wife's arrival. The last thing he wanted to do was to put a damper on their mood, given that they'd been separated for so long. Link also found himself thinking about how much of a pain Shad would be on the road, if he even agreed to leave in the first place.
The sudden sense of urgency was overwhelming, and Link cursed having to consider someone else in this instance. He knew in the bottom of his heart that he would get this done in half the amount of time if he went alone. More than anything, Link wanted Zelda to return and explain herself. He couldn't think why she wouldn't have given him more information. What was she playing at?
Link silently mused about how complicated this task was about to become when he felt a tap on his shoulder.
It was Rel, looking calm and collected. Link mirrored her mood, relaxing himself and trying to remain composed.
Rel, with a plate of food, leaned down and whispered in his ear.
"Have you told your friend what we found yet?"
Link shook his head.
"And disturb the happy couple? I think not."
"I see." Rel whispered back before returning to her duties.
Eating slowly, Link contemplated how long it would take for him to get to Ruffilio. If he rode fast and took minimal breaks, it would take a day and a half to reach the edge of the desert. If the weather was bad, it would be closer to three days. Link finished eating and stood, his intention to leave for the marketplace.
"Where are you going Link?" Telma asked him casually.
"The marketplace." He responded flatly, trying not to sound suspicious.
"Oh good!" Telma exclaimed. "Because Rel has insisted that I stock a specific wine. You can help her carry it back."
Rel stopped what she was doing and rolled her eyes.
"I'm in a hurry." Link admitted to Telma.
"Good!" She shot back. "Rel, go get your wine."
Frowning, Rel gave Telma a knowing look. Telma returned it with a smile.
"I'll go with you Link!" Shad exclaimed. "But that would mean leaving dear Ilia here."
"I'll take Rel." Link insisted, his tone impatient.
"Thank you Link. I know you wouldn't want to ruin my day." Shad replied with a smarmy expression.
Telma fished around in her bodice and retrieved a purse. She gestured for Link to come toward her and placed it gently in his hand.
"From Zelda." She whispered.
Link gave her a nod before heading toward the door.
"Go on!" Telma instructed Rel. "Go get your fire wine!"
Rel put her cloth down on the counter and joined Link.
It had been a while since Link had needed to come this far into the marketplace. It took him a while to get his bearings right, looking for the exact stalls and shop fronts that he needed. With Rel trailing behind him, seemingly off in her own headspace, Link found a shop that was selling clothing. Rel watched him for a few moments, eyeing him curiously as he looked at a heavy woolen cloak.
"Isn't it too warm for a woolen cloak?" She asked him curiously.
"By day, yes." Link explained. "But the desert gets freezing cold at night, even in summer."
"Interesting." She replied. "There is no desert where I come from."
Link started looking at the tunics and shirts, grabbing them and some trousers. He paid for everything quickly, the sense of urgency creeping back. He knew that he would need to stop for provisions, making note to stock up on food and water.
Rel watched as he skillfully bartered down the prices. It was clear that he was friendly with most, if not all the people they encountered in the marketplace. She noticed how the food vendor slipped him a few extra things for free.
"You seem to be very well known here." She observed.
"I sell to these people. I've known some of them for many years. They remember me from before."
"Before?"
Link answered the question with a deflection.
"Some other time." He answered.
"I'll take your word for it." Rel said, her tone short.
They were back outside within moments, Link finding his hands full. Rel gave the marketplace a quick glance before heading toward one of the quieter side streets. Link followed her, as instructed by Telma.
"You don't need to help Link." Rel said with a chuckle. "I think Telma just wanted to spend time with Elia."
"Ilia." Link corrected her.
"That's what I said!"
"Oh!" Link exclaimed, feeling embarrassed. "Your accent."
Rel's face flushed as she looked down.
"It's not that bad, is it?"
"Not at all." Link said, feeling like he had to change the subject. "Where is this fire wine anyway?"
"Over there." She said before finding the merchant.
They reached the dark shop front, Rel looking in through one of the grimy windows. She moved with purpose, knowing exactly where she wanted to go. Link watched as she made a small gesture to presumedly, the person on the other side. Moments later, the door to the establishment creaked open, a woman looking out.
Link noticed that this woman had a similar hair colour to Rel and if he looked closely, similar eyes. Her skin, however, had more of a tan to it, a stark contrast to Rel's fair skin.
Rel and the woman whispered a few things to each other. Before Link knew it, Rel was holding a small barrel of wine.
"I told Telma it was just a sample." Rel informed him. "I didn't need any help."
Link watched as Rel strained her back, trying to keep the barrel upright. The mysterious woman with dark red hair was now gone, leaving the two of them alone again.
"Here." Link insisted. "I'll take that, and you take this."
They awkwardly swapped their purchases and started in the direction of Telma's Pub.
Link knew there was still one thing he needed to purchase, but he wasn't sure how to address it with Rel. He knew which direction he needed to go to find the crafters guild.
"Rel, you can go off ahead." He insisted. "I'll bring this back shortly; I just have to make one more stop."
"Alright." Rel answered. "I'll see you soon?"
Link gave her a nod before heading toward the crafter's guild, a small barrel of wine in hand.
He was able to reach them rather quickly, already knowing what sword he wanted to purchase. Although he'd been taking a hiatus, he was still considered a master swordsman and the crafters knew it. He'd known them from his days as a royal knight.
As usual, he was treated kindly and was able to make it back to Telma's soon after.
On entering the pub, Telma was waiting for him.
"That's my wine sample." She joked. "And here I thought that you'd run off with it and let my favourite employee keep that really nice cloak."
Knowing that there was no use hiding it from her, Link showed her how he'd tucked the sword under the barrel, concealing it from view. Telma gave him an unimpressed look.
"It's a travelling cloak." He informed her.
"Seems a little heavy for travel in this weather."
"I'm going to Ruffilio."
"Your hometown?"
"Yes."
Rel came into view, watching Link intently. He made eye contact with her.
"I'm concerned Link." Telma said suspiciously. "What's going on?"
"A holiday from Shad." He said quickly before slipping past her. "Sorry Telma! I leave soon!"
By dusk, Link was fully prepared and ready to go. He was dressed in his new clothes and was busy packing Epona's saddle bags with provisions. The new clothing was comfortable enough, a little stiff for his liking, but nice, nonetheless.
It was a slow evening, with only Telma working behind the bar. Link was thankful that there weren't many spectators, save for Liom who had taken over guard duties once more.
Telma waved at him from behind the bar, beckoning him to come closer.
"I'll take care of Shad." Telma insisted. "I doubt he will even notice that you are gone."
Link relaxed somewhat, trying to get used to the warmth of his new clothing. As much as he would have preferred to wear a sleeveless Ordon shirt, he knew it wasn't an option.
"Thank you, Telma. I'll be gone for maybe… a week. At most. Is that alright?"
"Of course." She chuckled. "Zelda is paying for everything."
"Always the keen businesswoman. Forgive me, I must leave in a hurry."
Telma leaned down before producing two bottles wrapped in coarse cloth.
"Here." She said. "For the road."
Link smiled.
"Can you give my thanks to Rel? Tell her I'll see her soon?"
Telma gave Link a curious look as he made his way to the stable.
Epona was happy to see him, whinnying happily as swished her tail. Link put the last few provisions in her saddle bags, stopping to make sure everything was secure. He tucked the sword behind her saddle skillfully, concealing it from any prying eyes. Scratching her ear and untying her, Link was ready to put one foot in the stirrup when a voice was heard from behind him.
Startled, Link immediately stopped what he was doing. He looked around until he saw a familiar flame of auburn hair next to the stable.
Rel stepped forward, dressed in a similar fashion to Link. She wore her hair loose, the strands cascading over her bare shoulders. In her hand she held a travelling cloak, the same one she was wearing on the day she arrived.
"Aren't you missing something?" she asked slyly.
Link eyed her up and down, trying to figure out what she meant.
"Missing what?"
Rel, with a small pack over her shoulder, used her free hand to retrieve something from her pocket. With a gentle grace, she produced none other than the ciphered letter that had eluded Link and Shad for damn near a month. Link's hand shot toward his face in embarrassment.
"Shit." He murmured.
"I assume you have figured this out." She smiled.
"I can see you're ready to leave." Link observed. "But I am yet to figure out where you are going."
Rel made her way to him, gently waving the letter in his face. Link made a grabbing motion as she yanked it back.
"It's better that this says with me." She stated matter-of-factly. "And besides, how are you going to read it? I didn't tell you how to read it yet."
"I need to move quickly." Link explained. "I was told by Zelda, that I needed to find this kid. So, I am."
"If this happened all those weeks ago, surely we are looking for a needle in a haystack?"
"We?" Link asked, blinking a few times. "It's the only chance I've got. I've wasted too much time."
Rel nodded along.
"Well, it's not a good chance, but it's the only one we've got."
"You keep saying we?"
"I know." She responded, nonchalantly.
Link was coming to terms with the fact that he was backed into a proverbial corner. It was apparent that Rel had her heart set on coming with him, whether he liked it or not.
With a sigh, Link relented.
"If you're coming to the desert, you'll need to bring something warm. It get's very cold at night, even in summer."
"Thank you." Rel said with a smirk. "I've never been to the desert before! I love travelling."
"I grew up there." Link reminded her. "So, you'll need to follow me on your horse."
"I'll share yours." Rel insisted. "What's her name?"
After a while, Link had finally left the castle town with Rel in tow. Insisting that she wouldn't ride in front of him, or side saddle, Rel held onto his waist from behind. Despite losing precious moments, Rel expressed her disdain at appearing as though she were helpless. The sun was lowering, giving them extra light to ride by. Before setting Epona off into a brisk gallop, Link explained to Rel that they would be stopping for the night in a few hours. Understanding the nature of their departure, Rel agreed that they should do so as clandestinely as possible.
The moment they set off, Link felt overcome with familiarity and happiness. Link admittedly loved travelling, a testament to his earlier days in Hyrule's service. He reflected on how much he missed this feeling, the overwhelming sense of freedom and discovery.
"How long is the ride to your hometown!?" Rel called over the sound of the galloping and wind.
"About two days give or take! It's shorter if we take minimal breaks!"
"Surely this mare will need to rest at some point?"
"Epona isn't a farm horse! She's the offspring of warhorses. Those who carried heavily armed soldiers for days on end. She is a fine girl with finer lineage!"
They continued to ride until the moon was high in the sky. After a while, Link slowed Epona, pulling her reins to bring her to a stop.
"I'm guessing this is where we stop for the night?" Rel asked as she began to dismount from the saddle.
She wobbled as she almost fell out of the stirrup on her way down. Link couldn't help but chuckle as he watched her struggle. He eyed her amusedly as she finally stumbled to the ground. Dismounting with ease, Link followed her.
Noticing that she was physically shaking, Link raised an eyebrow.
They had stopped at a small clearing of grass, surrounded by some trees. It was a beautifully clear night, without a single cloud in the sky. Surveying the area, Link determined that they were in little danger of being disturbed by the elements. The spot was also far enough off the main trail that they wouldn't likely be disturbed by any other travelers.
Link noticed that Rel seemed happy with the spot, something he'd knew would happen. It was a nice clearing, and private. He thought of telling her about his previous travels and his familiarity with the area, but chose not, given that she had been rather secretive with him up to this point.
Link removed his travelling cloak to use as a makeshift bed. Following his lead, Rel laid down her somewhat shabby cloak and collapsed on it straight away. Trying to decompress, Rel took deep breaths. Noticing her demeanor, Link went to gather firewood while she waited.
Link busied himself with the firewood, making sure to glance at Rel to make sure she was alright. After a short while, she joined his side.
"I can see you're not accustomed to horse riding?" Link asked her with a smirk.
Rel was playing with the flint.
"Riding, no. Travelling, yes."
With raised eyebrows, Link turned to look her directly in the face. Even such a small disclosure shocked him. In Telma's Pub, Rel would often deflect questions or ignore them entirely. If she'd been more open to him on the night of Midsummer, he couldn't remember half of it.
"Is something the matter?" Rel asked, smiling.
"Not at all. It's just usually you'd say nothing or create a diversion."
"We aren't in a tavern surrounded by people now, are we?"
That provided somewhat of an explanation. Rel, with furrowed eyebrows, managed to get a small spark that got the fire burning. Exhaling her frustration, she sat back down on her cloak. Epona could be head happily chewing some grass.
"So, travelling?" Link asked her, breaking the silence.
"Yes. Travelling." Rel responded enthusiastically.
"I see."
"You're nowhere near as chatty as you were on solstice." Rel teased.
"Because I still feel like I am hungover from that night. That and I don't doubt I embarrassed myself."
"I thought your company was lovely."
"Thank you." Link paused. "I must admit, I haven't been back to my childhood home much, if at all in almost seven years."
"Why is that?"
"Because I don't doubt that I have embarrassed myself there too."
"Well…" Rel trailed off for a moment, thinking. "I figured that if I were to accompany you to your childhood home, that I'd tell you a little bit about mine."
They made eye contact for a brief moment. Link was taken aback in a pleasant way and was pleased to know that Rel liked his company. If he was being honest with himself, despite the shame her felt, he still wanted to get to know her.
Realizing that she has paused again, Link motioned for her to keep talking.
"Oh! Right." She cleared her throat. "I travelled around in my country, for work. My people are performers. Almost like a theatre troupe."
Link's eyes widened at this.
Of all the things she could have said, this was absolutely not something he was expecting, at all. Rel seemed like someone who didn't really like attention.
Looking embarrassed, Rel gave him an awkward expression.
"You?" Link said before laughing. "A performer?"
"Well, that's up for debate. I was found to have very little finesse for the performing arts, despite it being the backbone of our… culture."
"That explains your dancing." Link joked. "I thought I was bad."
"Oh Ha. Ha. Ha. VERY FUNNY." Rel said obnoxiously.
"I think I understand, at least a little." Link explained. "I was handpicked, chosen for a specific path. No matter what I did, it was always there. I resented it."
"Indeed." Rel said quietly. "I don't resent the path that was laid out for me. I resent that I failed in the eyes of my ancestors."
Link found himself nodding along to what she was saying. Not wanting another awkward silence, Link kept going.
"So, what did you do?" He asked her gently.
"The only three things I've ever relied on. Reading, cleaning and-" She paused, producing the letter. "Deception."
Link kept nodding. It was no wonder she was an absolute expert in running Telma's establishment. Telma had nothing but kind words to say about Rel, despite Rel already having paid her back several times over.
"I have to admit." Link started. "I was worried about bringing you on this trip, but I'd be lying if I said I'd prefer Shad was here."
They both laughed.
"Shad frustrates me." Rel stated. "How could he not see a simple cipher?"
"Don't get me started. He's so focused on leaving this written legacy that simple notions elude him."
"You don't frustrate me. I enjoy talking with you. Though I'm not sure about dancing again."
"Tell me about ciphers."
After Rel had spent some time explaining that a cipher was merely a rearrangement of letters, the conversation flowed naturally. The night was getting on in hours, but neither Rel nor Link seemed to notice. With one of Telma's bottles cracked open and mostly empty, they continued to talk after Rel explained ciphers. After such an oppressive summer, the night air was finally starting to cool down, making it pleasantly crisp. They laid shoulder to shoulder by the campfire as Rel was pointing out stars and drawing patterns with her fingers.
"Look, that on there-" She chirped, her accent becoming more noticeable. "That's the symbol of the goddesses."
Another pleasant surprise.
"The goddesses? It seems that your country and Hyrule have that in common. The sacred mark, representing power, wisdom and courage."
"Representing what?" Rel snorted.
She continued to trace the imaginary triangle with her finger.
"That is the life force of all of us." She explained. "The bottom right triangle, that represents ages, a curious way of saying time."
Link gave her a quizzical look.
"The bottom left represents secrets." Rel continued.
Link's interest was piqued at this statement. He thought of the bandage that he'd often wrapped firmly around his left hand and what it concealed. Although the mark hadn't appeared for several years, he was still apprehensive about showing it. Besides, it was easy enough to pass off as an injury or comfort, considering his farming work and swordsmanship.
Secrets was something he could definitely relate to.
"The last one." Rel said with hint of mystery, "Represents the earth. Nature. The seasons. I can see why your people would think of it as power."
Link gazed up at the sky, as she finally lowered her hand. A sense of comfort washed over him, knowing that Rel was finally opening up to him. He kept stealing glances at her face, watching her excitedly explain the stars to him. Rel eventually turned her head to meet his gaze, breaking her concentration.
Feeling self-conscious, Link snapped his attention back to the sky, hoping that she hadn't seen him.
"It's fascinating how the stars can tell so many stories." He said in a formal manner. "How the story of the three goddesses can change between cultures. Was that something you learned from your tutor that you mentioned?"
Her eyes reflecting the starlight, Rel beamed.
"Indeed. These constellations have guided countless travelers, providing them direction and a sense of purpose. It's a reminder that even in the vastness of the midnight sky, two people can connect over a story. The light will guide their journey."
Without thinking, Link leaned in closer to Rel, their shoulders now touching.
"You're certainly a good storyteller. You have a finesse for finding meaning in small things. Stars, flowers, a garden… what else have you got?"
"Perhaps it's because I believe that the smallest moments and details can hold significance. Like the background music of a theatre play, or a dying plum tree in a tavern courtyard. Or even-"
Rel grabbed Link's left hand.
"The worn hands of a left-handed swordsman."
Link was already aware of her innate ability to observe, so he wasn't surprised at that observation.
"Good eye." He said cheerily.
"I don't really know much about royalty." Rel explained. "Only what I've read in histories or seen in plays. But how does one become a knight with your dexterity? Don't they force you to use the other hand?"
Link shook his head.
"You said you have no finesse for the performing arts. I am like that with my hands. It was overlooked due my natural ability. Princess Zelda overlooked it too, as I had earned it through outstanding services to the kingdom."
The fire was waning, casting the smallest of glows on their faces. The night sky looked so peaceful and tranquil at that moment and Link found his attention drifting. Noticing the change in his demeanor, Rel wondered why he seemed guarded.
"Is she- Are you involved?" She asked slyly.
"No." Link laughed. "That only happens in your theatre plays. The only involvement I have with Zelda is services as a close confidant, Knight of Hyrule and friend. We had a shared desire to protect Hyrule."
Rel blinked a few times, her eyes bleary. Link was also started to feel the temptation of sleep, knowing full well that they could finish the trip tomorrow if they made haste.
"Goodnight." Rel yawned as she wrapped herself in her cloak.
With his usual broken sleep, Link awoke early, the sun barely touching the horizon. The sky was a beautiful shade of deep orange, illuminating the quiet earth below. Laying on his side, Link opened his eyes slowly, his blurry eyes looking out for Rel. All he could see was the remnants of the fire.
Rel wasn't laying down on her cloak, she was in fact, seemingly gone.
Sitting upright, Link looked around, hoping to see her.
Thankfully, he found her tending to Epona.
She was wearing her travelling cloak, fastening bags to horse's saddle. Epona was in very good spirits as Rel stroked her mane.
Rel had left a small bowl of food beside Link. The kindness of the gesture was not lost on him as he ate the food she'd served him. Noticing that he was awake and eating, Rel sat down. She stared at his face awkwardly.
"Yes?" Link asked her curiously.
"You said it would be two days ride if we went slowly or a very long ride today. Will we reach your town by nightfall if we leave now?"
Link swallowed his mouthful of food and nodded.
"Didn't like our fireside bonding?" He joked.
"I don't know if I can spend another night in the dirt."
Link let out a sharp laugh.
"Alright, give me a few moments."
The sun was rising faster now as Rel wrapped her hands tightly around Link's waist. Epona had broken out into a full gallop rather quickly, causing Rel to cling even tighter. Link was admittedly very amused by her reactions to going over small bumps or around vegetation and wondered how someone could travel so often and not be accustomed to horseback.
Once out of the clearing, they ventured into a verdant forest. Rel found herself feeling a mixture of terror and awe as Link skillfully steered Epona around any obstacles. Sunlight filtered through the canopies and created patterns on the floor. Finding herself clinging on for dear life, Rel started hitting Link on the shoulder.
Knowing that she wanted to stop, Link waited until they'd emerged from the forest to a clear landscape. Summer wildflowers swayed gently in the warm breeze.
They came to a sudden stop, Link pulling hard of Epona's reins. He became acutely aware of how hard Rel was holding him, her arms crushing his ribs. Her head was buried tightly against his back and he was unsure how she could breathe properly.
"Rel?"
She lifted her head and unlatched her arms.
Link noticed that she was shaking and that her face looked even more pale than usual. He got down from the saddle, making sure to keep his arms wide incase she needed assistance.
"Let me help you down." He offered.
Rel thought for a few moments before allowing him to assist her. Her face was drenched with sweat and her complexion was turning grey. Once both her feet were on the ground, Rel bent over, her hands placed firmly on her knees. Link knew what was coming and understood why she wanted him to stop. He gently placed his hand on her shoulder, trying to comfort her.
"Are you alright? Do you need help?" He asked her gently.
Wordless and trembling, Rel wandered forward. With a sharp exhale, she emptied the contents of her stomach onto the grass.
"We can stop for the day, it's fine." Link insisted.
Rel stayed in her current position, her hands tightly grasping her trousers.
"No. We need to keep going… I'll be damned if I must sleep rough again." She wheezed.
"I admire your determination." Link reassured her. "But if that's true, I need to give Epona a short rest and some water."
Rel took a seat where she stood, despite the bile in front of her. Link couldn't help but let out a laugh as he made his way to her side. He put his arm around her shoulder and tried petting her back. Rel continued to inhale and exhale loudly.
"That's normal." Link said quietly. "If you've never ridden fast before, it's a shock to the system."
After a few more firm pats, Rel rose to her feet. Link noticed that as she stood, she swayed slightly. Trying to balance the weight, Rel leant onto her leg. She let out a wince of pain.
Link shot up, catching her once more.
"I didn't ask how your leg was."
"It's healed enough." Rel stated. "It's still not the same as before. It's stiff, particularly in the mornings."
She glanced at him, a sly look in her eyes.
Knowing that this was a joke, Link relaxed a little and let out another laugh.
"Shall we continue?" He asked her politely.
Rel was putting her foot back into the stirrup, readying herself to go.
The ride continued as they traversed the rolling hills and wildflowers. It took some time before the earth became noticeable arid, with the green becoming few and far between. The landscape underwent a dramatic transformation as the hours passed.
Link didn't relent on the briskness of their pace, knowing exactly how to navigate this territory. The sun's rays intensified as the afternoon went on, causing a shimmering effect in the distance.
Taking note, Link made sure to look for any farmsteads, wondering which one this missing boy was tied to.
A sense of melancholy washed over Link as they got closer, with small clusters of homes leading to the walls of the city. He knew that within the hour they would reach their destination, which he was pleased about as he didn't want to brave the cold of the night.
As the sun was setting, the temperature dropped suddenly, offering a brief reprieve from the days heat.
Exhausted and exhilarated, Link slowed Epona for the last time. Rel, realizing that they had slowed significantly, lifted her head. She caught a glimpse of the city walls as they were ushered in. The gate was guarded by a single man who didn't even look up when they entered. Link was happy about this, as it showed just how much everything had changed in seven years. His calm mood was disrupted by memories of the arbiter's grounds and the sword of Garouf. They were so close to place that Link had said goodbye and he'd dared not return since that day.
His attention was brought back after Rel had removed a hand from his waist.
Sitting atop of Epona, Link waved to a local woman.
"Excuse me, do you know where the nearest inn is?" He asked her cheerily.
The woman thought for a moment before pointing to the nearest inn. Link thanked her and set Epona off.
The inn was welcoming, offering a stable for horses. Leaving Rel in the foyer, Link tied Epona up and made his way inside.
Rel seemed to be in much better shape than earlier. The colour had returned to her face and she was no longer sweating profusely. With their belongings, Link led her to the entrace of the inn. In awe of her surroundings, Rel couldn't keep her gaze still.
"What- what is this place?" She asked curiously. "How is this city in the middle of the desert?"
"It was built upon a settlement here, a century ago." Link explained. "This was the seat of the desert dwellers. It's otherwise known as the Gerudo desert."
Rel gave Link a quizzical look.
"After an incident with their leaders… they left. This is now the seat of the Ruffilio Family." He continued.
"They just left?" Rel asked flatly.
"That's how the history has be written, yes."
Another wobble in her step, Rel stumbled forward. Link tried to help her, but she simply waved him off. They were at the inn, ready to rest for the evening as Rel was beginning to shiver.
"You didn't lie about the cold." She said with a slight chatter.
Once inside, they were bathed with dim light. The inn was similar to Telma's in layout, replacing the timber with heavy stone and concrete. Rel walked straight to the nearest brazier, warming her hands. Link was very surprised at how quickly she felt the cold but attributed it the difficult she had during the ride.
The innkeeper greeted Link with a friendly tone.
"How many for the night?" He asked Link.
The innkeeper, a middle-aged man with slightly greying hair looked between them.
"Two please."
"You're in luck young man, I've got one room left for this evening and it has a large bed. Good for both of you."
Rel looked away awkwardly, her face flushed with embarrassment. Link gave her a sympathetic look in return.
"Are you sure there isn't two?" Link asked the innkeeper sheepishly.
"I was being honest sir. I won't tell anyone though." The man said with a wink.
"You don't need to call me sir."
Link looked over to Rel, who returned the expression with a shrug. The last thing he wanted to do was drive her to being guarded and uncomfortable again. She gave him a nod and turned back to the brazier. The innkeeper bade them to wait a few moments while he retrieved the key.
"Supper is included for you." The innkeeper stated. "There's a private table over there. I'll bring you a drink."
They made their way to the booth just as the innkeeper was bringing over a large portion of food and drink.
"This is for you, sir."
"I already told you, there's no need for that."
"It is to me."
After they were nestled into the booth, Link was finally able to relax. The inn was quiet and peaceful, the ambient light only adding to the serenity. After such a long day of intense riding, Link didn't have much of a desire to socialize, even if they were his kin. Rel followed his lead, relaxing and keeping to herself.
Link noticed that she had her worn cloak wrapped tightly around her shoulders. Sliding her a drink, Link spoke.
"We need to get you a new one."
"I know." Rel agreed. "But I am rather attached to this one."
Looking over the food that they'd been served, Link wondered if they would get through it all.
"Did that man call you sir?" Rel asked with a smile.
"Uh-" Link groaned. "He did."
"Have you met him before? How did he know that?"
Link put his drink down and grabbed his ears. He ran his thumb over the blue hoop in his left ear.
"I still haven't had the heart to take them out." He explained, his manner melancholy. "I still like them."
"Oh! That's what the earrings mean."
"You'll notice that my closest friends have them too."
Taking up his drink again, Link gave her a nod. It was in that moment that Link realized that this was the second time that they were alone together in an inn. He figured that this was why Rel was fine with them sharing the room. Both of them seemed to be enjoying the stillness of the evening.
"Rel, what do you think of my town so far?" He asked her, breaking the silence.
Her expression tired and her eyes bleary, Rel made eye contact with him. Despite the weight of her eyelids, Link was able to admire the amber tones in her eyes, thanks to the light of the inn.
"It's definitely not what I was expecting. I thought we would see a few wooden houses! Instead, I see a stone city with grand residences for the nobleman. I also thought I saw a fountain."
Link smiled at that.
"Rel, now that we're alone… can I ask you something? It was something I was thinking about during the ride."
Slightly confused, Rel motioned for him to go on.
"Your leg. That wound. That wasn't an accident, was it?"
Her face fell, apprehension and fear showing on her features. She lifted her gaze to meet his once more.
"I know a sword wound when I see it. I've had more than my fair share. Rel, what happened that day?"
Taking a swig of her drink, Rel looked down again. She thought for a few moments before taking a deep breath, preparing herself to recount the tale. She found comfort in Link's gaze, knowing that she could tell the truth.
"I knew you'd ask eventually." She stated coolly. "And it seems like you'd become entwined in it sooner or later."
Link leaned in closer to her, waiting in anticipation.
"On a day following my arrival in Hyrule, I was held up, by someone. By an assailant that I do not know. My memory of that day is dark, and I don't doubt that the medicine I was given contributed to that."
Her voice was tinged with sorrow and fear.
"I was invited here… For what, I cannot tell you."
"I appreciate that Rel. I didn't expect that you would be so upfront about it. Again, I'm more accustomed to you deflecting questions."
Rel nodded and continued on.
"I was travelling in a caravan, nothing special. I hitched a ride in exchange for domestic duties in lieu of money."
"Where did you travel from?"
Rel looked around before answering.
"The harbour in the northeast." She explained. "It is quite beautiful out there."
"I've never been."
"Really?" Rel asked, very surprised. "Anyway, I'm not sure when this person joined us, but I know it was a young man. The height and build gave it away. We stopped just outside the walls because the heat was oppressive. I didn't get a good look at his face, something I deeply regret."
"What do you mean?" Link asked her.
"If I knew his face, I would return the favour. I haven't been the same since." Rel stopped, folding her arms and tensing her jaw. "I don't recall how or why the quarrel started, but this man was furious with the guards."
Link froze, realizing that Rel might have witnessed the murder.
"We were close to the city wall… I thought I could slip away unnoticed… I don't know why he turned on me. The next thing I knew, he turned his weapon on me. I fought him and I could have sworn I landed at least one slash. I can only assume he didn't want any witnesses. After that, I fled."
"Then the rain started." Link said flatly.
"Yes, the rain." Rel smirked.
"And then you fell into Telma's tavern."
"And then I fell into Telma's tavern."
Link shifted uncomfortably in his seat.
"The guards?" He asked her.
"The guards?"
"So, you weren't witness to murder?"
Rel looked utterly shocked.
"Murder?"
"Liom. The young ashen haired man, you would have seen him at Telma's. He was asked to keep watch, due to the gruesome nature of the attack. He also said that they had black veins."
"Black veins…" Rel breathed. "Wait, you're not implying?"
Link shook his head.
"Not at all. I don't think you capable of that. I was curious to see if you'd witnessed it. From what you have told me, you are the only reliable witness."
Rel frowned.
"I don't remember much else. I'm sorry."
Wanting to lighten the mood, Link relaxed and grinned.
"It's fine Rel. You've been through a pretty traumatic event. I'd be more surprised if you could remember everything vividly."
Rel brought her drink to her lips before blinking a few times. Link enjoyed the ambience for a few more moments.
"The sleeping arrangement… I can sleep on the floor?" He asked her cheekily.
"You don't need to."
"I'd be a sorry excuse for a gentleman if I allowed you to sleep on the floor."
"Head to toe?"