The men made their way down to the basement, as they had done previously. Much to Link's discontent, the mess was not only still there, but somehow worse than yesterday. He glared at Shad, who dismissed his look with a shrug and a wave of the hand. Link knew he had his work cut out for him, very much doubting that Shad would give him any help, as he was engrossed in the research regarding the souls. Shad was hellbent on being Hyrule's most famous scholar and there was little doubt what his priority was.
Leaning over, Link started to glance over the books on top of the pile.
"So… Shad." Link muttered, trying to keep his wits about him. "Which one of these- stacks- is history?"
"Uh-" Shad replied. "Maybe, that end of the table?"
"And what do I have to go off?" Link asked him, his patience wearing thin.
"That… it is a language.. of… Hyrule?" Shad replied with another shrug.
Taking a seat, Link let out an audible sigh. He reached for the books that Shad was referring to, hoping that one would be able to point him in the right direction.
"Have you found anything about different languages in Hyrule?" Link asked him, knowing the answer.
"No, I haven't Link. I've been really caught up in this business about the souls! Did you know that there have been at least-" Shad paused. "Of course you know this don't you?"
"What do you think?" Link asked him sarcastically.
"Right."
Shad followed Link's example and took a seat at the opposite end of the table. Within moments the room fell silent, save for the light scrawling of Shad's quill on parchment.
Putting his feet up on the table, Link opened what he assumed was an historical text. He spent his time skimming the index, looking for any key words or clues.
Hours had passed and Link had finally achieved a small break through. He started making note of the different races of people who had inhabited Hyrule and deduced that he would need to find more information about them, especially their spoken and written language.
Shad had barely spoken since he started working, much to Link's relief. He was able, though, to determine that Zelda had kindly provided most of the research material, everything that she had found relevant to the task. Still feeling overwhelmed, Link had a thought.
"Shad, what do we know about the boy's adoptive parents? Maybe they taught him this language?"
Shad thought for a moment.
"I doubt it." He said. "They are a married couple. Farmers. Similar to Ordon."
Link nodded a few times.
"Similar, yes. But farming is hard in such arid country. They would be herders. I could probably find them if I went out there." Link mused.
"Why do you ask?" Shad replied.
"Seems to be an obvious lead." Link continued. "Are they Hylian?"
Pausing, Shad brought his quill to his lips. He thought for a couple of moments.
"Hmmm." He hummed quietly. "I don't actually know!"
Link closed his eyes and brought his fingers to his temples. A gesture that was becoming all too familiar in such a short space of time. After a few seconds, he made eye contact with Shad, who of course smiled at him sheepishly.
"Do you have any information on them?" Link asked dryly. "Any at all?"
"It's here somewhere." Shad pondered.
"Where?"
"Maybe here?"
After some digging, Shad was able to find what little information he had collected on the boy's adoptive parents. He had thankfully taken some notes which he handed to Link after a short amount of time.
Feeling somewhat relieved, Link perused the notes.
"Is this all there is?" Link asked him. "Are you sure?"
"So it would seem. We are talking about some mere farmers, not royalty."
Link pondered on that notion for a moment. Though it was true, these two people seemed rather unremarkable, it was odd that the royal family hadn't kept more information. He busied himself with reading the parchment Shad had given him.
As Link had assumed, the adoptive parents were horse and goat steerers. They had a small herd, seemingly provided by the royal family, as an presumed payment. They lived on the outskirts of Ruffilio, often travelling into the town to make trade and it appeared that at least one of them was Hylian. Link made his own separate notes, making sure to jot down this information. He considered how many people he would need to question if he were to get into contact with them.
For over an hour, Link read and in turn, drawn his own conclusions about this family. He recorded every last detail, no matter how small, in hopes that it would steer him in the right direction.
By the end of the day, Link was confident that he could recite the information by heart, having mulled over it for some time. Shad gave him a strange look, after taking a short break from his own work.
"Why are you so interested in them?" He asked Link casually.
"Because only one of them in Hylian. Is it possible the other is from- someplace else?"
"Oh!" Shad paused. "I didn't think of that!"
"I know you didn't." Link replied quietly.
"I genuinely think that is all we know about them Link. Your lead may be cold."
Link folded his arms on the table in front of him and rested his head on them.
"Is every day going to be like this?" Link asked Shad, his displeasure obvious.
"Well…" Shad trailed off. "When you're done with the translating, then you can finally help me!"
Link let out a loud groan.
As the hours turned into a days, the days into a week and Link was no closer to finding out anything from the work that he'd undertaken. Hour after hour, day after day, Link felt he was losing his mind. The repetitive nature of the task and the close proximity to Shad were dampening Link's mood and effecting his motivation. Link often found himself wondering if Zelda had played some sort of trick on him or if she were undertaking a new method of torture. Either way, he was reaching the end of his endurance with the entire ordeal.
After one particularly long night of reading about the very few languages that existed in Hyrule, Link decided to allow himself to sleep late the following morning. He got dressed at his own pace and made his way downstairs to greet Telma.
Business in the pub was very much as usual.
Telma was in her usual good spirits and relished in the presence of another woman. As Link sat down and chatted with Telma, it was obvious that she was very fond of Rel, talking about her in a high regard.
"I sometimes feel like she is my long-lost daughter!" Telma joked as she served Link his breakfast.
"You're very fond of her, clearly." Link said before taking a mouthful.
"She is great. I never have to tell her to do anything, she just does it." Telma continued; her tone warm.
Link gave the entire area a quick glance, noticing that Rel wasn't there.
"Where is she anyway?" Link asked casually.
Making a gesture toward the back door, Telma smiled.
"Rel is outside." She declared proudly. "She's been growing plants. I swear, she's magic. I've never seen such a green thumb."
Link stopped chewing his food, seemingly freezing mid movement.
"Plants?" He asked with a gleam in his eye. "Since when did you have a garden?"
"Since Rel planted one out back-"
Telma was interrupted by Link's swift movements. Within a few moments, he had dropped his fork and jumped out of his seat.
Turning on his heel, Link rapidly made his way outside.
Sure enough, Rel was in the courtyard, wearing simple clothing and tending to some plants. She was in a calm daze, finding solace in the gentle morning light. The small patch, a once neglected plot of dirt outside the tavern, had transformed into a beautiful garden.
Approaching calmly, Link complimented her.
"You've some skill with gardening." He said to her gently.
With a small shudder, Rel turned on her heel to face him.
"Link! You scared me." She laughed, her cheeks flushing. "I'm not presentable!"
Link didn't even notice her clothes and instead chose to admire her work.
"These flowers. Herbs. Vegetables. How long have you been doing this Rel?"
Rel looked away.
"Only a short while." She replied.
"Everything has grown so quickly." Link said in admiration. "How did you manage this?"
"Just good luck I suppose."
Link knelt down beside her, inspecting the soil.
"Tell me about your garden." He said encouragingly. "Show me everything."
Taken aback, Rel's posture softened. She knelt down next to Link, making sure to keep her distance.
"What would you like to know?" She asked, her tone unsure.
"How did you start?"
Rel entered into a diatribe about her garden, her tone and mannerisms becoming more excited as she explained things to Link. She described how she had been attending to the garden twice a day, for several weeks. She started with the simple act of planting seeds, making sure to give them as much sunlight as possible. She spent time every day, watering each individual plant and explained to Link how she chose a specific patch of soil.
"The soil is the most important part." She explained excitedly. "If it is right, you will be able to feel it. Trust me."
"Interesting." Link mused quietly. "How do you know it's the right patch though?"
"I mean it." She explained. "It will let you know."
Link stood up, looking around for more things to talk to her about. He spotted a fruit tree, one that he'd never noticed before.
"Wait. Is that… A plum tree?" He asked Rel.
"Yes it is." She replied proudly. "It was halfway to death before I tended to it."
Link made his way to the tree, tentatively touching its leaves. He spotted some flowers, revealing that they would be fruiting soon. A few moments later, Rel was by his side. Link turned to look at her, noticing for the first time that Rel was quite tall.
"How?" Link asked her. "Did you turn that twig into this beautiful tree?"
"It's a secret." Rel replied slyly.
"Whatever your secret is, you've got to share it with me. Your skill is enviable."
"Thank you. But I fear this one may not bear fruit until next year. It takes it time to open up and bloom."
"There are some flowers." Link explained. "If you look over here."
Rel followed his lead and looked at the small flowers.
"I love these flowers. They smell beautiful."
"Indeed." Rel paused. "Not only can we eat the fruit, but we can also use the oil to make perfume."
Thinking for a moment, Link looked at her again.
"Will you be around to see it fruit?" He asked her. "And make your perfumes?"
Falling into another silence, Rel took a few steps, gazing toward to sky. She folded her arms and took a deep breath.
"Maybe. Maybe not. But if leaving a beautiful garden in my wake is the only evidence I was here, I will be happy."
Link felt slightly sad at this notion, though he couldn't explain why. The thought of a visiting maiden leaving behind a beautiful garden was only half of it. Noticing that he was watching her, Rel turned away.
"How- Who taught you this?" Link asked her, refusing to his astonishment. "My village could use someone like you."
"You flatter me." Rel said in response. "I learned this in my hometown."
"I'll need to visit your teacher." Link joked. "Because I need this for my own garden."
A small hint of a smile touched Rel's lips.
"I'm not sure how to describe it. But you must show your garden love. Let it guide you."
"Can you show me?" Link asked her eagerly.
Rel turned to face Link, unfolding her arms. This time she was really smiling, a tender look painting her features.
"Won't your friend with the glasses be mad at me?" She asked in reply.
"Until he can find me the exact book I need, he's on his own." Link said gruffly before throwing his hands in the air. "I'm reaching my limit with study."
"Very well!" Rel replied excitedly. "I'm going to fill some planter boxes on this window. I could use a hand."
As the day grew warmer, Link an Rel worked side by side in the ever-growing garden behind the pub. The air was humid, carrying the scent of herbs and fresh soil. Watching her intently, Link studied her movements, eager to learn whatever secrets she kept.
Rel made sure to keep Link busy, either by showing him where to sow the earth or by getting him to fetch water. She observed him, watching as his calloused hands worked with a surprising gentleness. By the afternoon, they were done for the day as Rel insisted that she would be needed for work soon. With a last walk through of the garden, Rel moved with a certain grace, running her fingers over the plants.
The pair had a certain camaraderie by the time they finished. They connected over their shared efforts, happy with the garden. With the nod of her head, they silently agreed to go inside.
The blissfulness of their shared efforts was short lived, as loudly explained by Shad on entering the main area of the pub.
"Link!' Shad cried. "Where have you been!? I've gotten nothing done all day!"
Rel gave Link a knowing look and looked away. Link answered Shad's question with a shrug.
"I was helping Rel with her garden." He explained calmly.
"Well! While you were busy helping someone else with their work, you forgot about yours!"
"I maintain that until you give me more direction, I will be taking a rest."
Without missing a beat, Telma let out a loud, sarcastic laugh. Shad became acutely aware of the number of people watching his outburst and with a loud sigh, turned away from them. He threw his arms onto the counter and began pouting.
With a final smile, Rel walked away from Link.
The time seemed to slow even further, something that Link did not even think possible. Each moment between studying with Shad or waiting out the nights became elongated and heavy.
Much to his dismay, he and Shad were no closer to finding any of the answers about the letter. Shad had seemingly all but abandoned it, his mind set on becoming the next great author in the kingdom.
Link had, however, found himself taking refuge by spending time with Rel. In the several weeks since her arrival, Link was drawn to her presence. Their conversations had become more frequent and less formal and Link was helping her regularly with the yard work. He had caught glimpses of her character and observed her from a distance as she worked. Finding himself ever drawn to her enigmatic presence, Link became eager to unravel whatever mysteries lay beneath calm demeanor.
Between his interactions with Shad and Telma, Link spent time with his friend Liom, who had taken his job as a watchman seriously. Link had all but stopped caring about the task and without the purpose he found in the garden, he started to feel isolated.
By the following week, Link was convinced of his earlier theory, that he had been tricked or sentenced to torture. He was awarded a brief reprieve with the news that Ilia would be visiting, a nice distraction for the both of them. On the morning of her arrival, Link hastily dressed in his casual summer clothing. He reached the door of his room, throwing it open, but the sight before him stopped him in his tracks.
It was Rel, standing on the opposite side of the door. She held her hand in the air, as if making the motion to knock.
"Rel-" Link stammered.
"Happy Solstice." She said in response. "I was wondering if you were busy later?"
Link blinked a few times, allowing his eyes to focus on her face. She looked as vibrant as always, dressed in a fitted blouse and her usual leather pants. The heat didn't seem to affect her, as evidenced by her choice of clothing and her long loose hair. Rel tucked a long auburn tress behind her ear.
"Am I busy later?" He asked her, cursing himself for having nothing better to say. "Solstice?"
"Hylians" Rel said flatly. "Midsummer."
It took a few moments for Link to realize that it was, in fact, the morning of midsummer. He tried to process how much time had passed since he had arrived at Telma's.
"Do you have any plans for this evening? Any mischief?" Rel continued playfully.
Shaking his head, Link returned her playful expression.
"Not at this stage. I was planning on hitting my head against a wall, but it seems that Shad's wife Ilia will be arriving this morning."
Rel laughed before folding her arms.
"Oh!" She exclaimed. "That would explain why his was up so early. He is usually so lazy."
Link rolled his eyes and shook his head.
"That's Shad." He paused. "I'm not planning anything later."
"If that's the case, can you please water my plants?" Rel asked him calmly. "I'm doing a favour for Telma later and I want to make sure they are nurtured."
"Gladly." Link replied quickly.
Rel gave him a warm smile and gestured that she needed to move. Link followed her down the stairs into the main serving area. Telma was, of course, behind the bar and polishing glasses. Rel had already made it to Telma's side and started her morning duties. Taking a seat, Link could feel his thoughts starting to race. He was admittedly at his wits end, wanting nothing more than to find the answers that they were seeking in the texts. As Rel served him his breakfast, Link decided that he needed to make a plan and fast.
In the midst of his musing, the tavern door swung open. Shad walked into the room proudly, followed by a rather coy Ilia. Standing up to greet her, Link beamed, happy to welcome a change of pace to the monotony of working with Shad.
Ilia made her way to Link immediately and the two of them embraced.
Telma was at their side within moments, throwing her arms around Ilia. This was the first time Telma had seen her former employee in a long while and her affection for Ilia was obvious. Ilia smiled warmly as Telma planted a kiss on her forehead.
With a gentle look, Rel watched the interaction. She excused herself and continued to work behind the bar.
Once the pleasantries were over, Ilia looked around the pub, taking in the atmosphere. She spotted Zue, who had taken over today's watch, and waved to him eagerly. Ilia continued to glance around until her gaze rested on Rel.
Noticing her stare, Rel acknowledged her with a polite nod. Ilia smiled to herself and bounded toward the new addition. Before Rel could say anything, Ilia launched into introductions.
"Good morning! I don't believe we've met. I am Ilia, wife of Shad and friend of Link."
Rel blinked a few times before returning to her work.
"Hello Ilia. I am Rel." She replied politely.
Ilia looked surprised.
"Rel. You have an interesting accent." Ilia said excitedly. "Where is it from?"
Rel turned away, finding something else to busy herself with. Sensing that Rel may be feeling uncomfortable, Link joined Ilia at the bar.
"Rel isn't from here Ilia." He said plainly. "She arrived here looking for work. Just as well, because Rel seems to have many talents."
Making eye contact with Link, Rel gave him a thankful expression. Her cheeks seemed to be flushed. Ilia made a sympathetic expression and mouthed the word "sorry" to Link.
"I actually have an errand to run." Rel announced suddenly. "I am doing something for Telma. Link, I appreciate your help."
Within moments, Rel had stopped what she was doing and abandoned it. She left the bar quickly and exited through the front door before anyone could say a word. Even Telma seemed surprised, given Rel's usually calm demeanor.
With widened eyes, Ilia looked up at Link.
"I'm so sorry!" She exclaimed. "I didn't mean to upset her!"
"I don't think she is upset." Link explained to Ilia. "She actually did have something she needed to do."
Ilia relaxed, taking a deep breath. She noticed that Link was looking in the direction that Rel had left.
"Enough of that for now." She said, unsure. "I'll have Shad bring my belongings. Can you take me to Epona?"
"Of course!" Link replied.
The friends made their way to the stables, Ilia skipping toward Epona, who was just as excited to see Ilia. Knowing that she was about to be spoiled in her company, Epona nudged Ilia gently. On reflex, Link handed Ilia a brush, who in turn started to delicately groom Epona's mane. Link busied himself with filling her trough as Ilia indulged the horse.
A somewhat extended, noticeable silence fell over them. Link folded his arms and leant against one of the wooden poles, watching as Ilia took care of Epona. After what seemed like forever, Ilia cleared her throat to speak.
"So, Link… How do you find working with Shad?"
Link physically recoiled. He of course knew how much Ilia loved Shad, but he couldn't outright lie to his friend. She was one of his closest for years and they remained tight knight to this day.
"It's difficult." Link stated bluntly.
Ilia chuckled to herself.
"I am well aware of this Link. You should see his study at home. I'd say this stable is cleaner than that."
Link relaxed.
"I'm glad I can speak freely."
The silence encroached again.
"That woman… Rel." Ilia said gently. "She's beautiful."
With a surprised look, Link looked away from Ilia. He was at a loss for words. Not knowing what to do, he simply shrugged.
"You seem to be friendly with her." Ilia murmured with a devious smile. "What do you think of her?"
Link tried to hide his awkwardness, his face flushing. He'd been similarly teased by Telma and Shad. He'd not had many conversations with Ilia about women and his discomfort showed. Link gave himself a few moments to compose himself before answering.
"Yes. She is an attractive woman." He said with measured politeness.
"So you agree?" Ilia asked enthusiastically. "You think she's beautiful?"
Link's face felt uncomfortably warm.
"Yes. She is. I am a man after all."
Ilia burst out laughing.
"What do you know about her? You have to tell me! Where is she from?" Ilia blurted out.
Feeling more relaxed, Link recounted some of the conversations he'd had with Rel. He shared with Ilia the time they'd spent together, how he was helping Rel with the gardening and the night they'd shared a bottle of wine together. Between recounting their conversations, he shared his speculations about Rel's level of education and her manner of speaking.
"Where was she taught?" Ilia asked him. "Did she tell you where?"
Link shook his head.
"She's rather… Secretive about those details. I'm sure in time she will let me- everyone know."
Ilia gave Epona one final scratch before discarding the brush.
"Why don't you spend some time with her tonight?" Ilia said with a smile.
Making an awkward expression, Link cast his eyes down.
"You're allowed to open up to someone Link. You could always use another friend."
"I'm definitely drawn to her." Link explained as Ilia's eyes lit up. "Not in that way- But there's something she won't disclose. I want to find out."
Ilia led him back inside.
Once they were back at the bar, Shad's face lit up. Ilia and Link sat down either side of him. Within moments, Shad embraced Ilia and kissed her. Feeling awkward, Link looked everywhere else except at the display of affection. He noticed that Rel was back behind the bar, who returned his expression with a stifled laugh.
A short while later, Shad and Ilia were off, finding their own spot together in the tavern. Telma was busy talking to other patrons and serving drinks while Rel worked quietly. Feeling the overwhelming urge to finish the task again, Link had a thought.
"What are you doing for the rest of the day?" Link asked Rel, following Ilia's advice.
"Working." She replied. "Though, Telma is giving me the night off. She said she wants me to take some time to make friends. I think she also senses the significance of solstice to me."
Link's expression fell slightly.
"I guess I will have to find something to do until then."
"I will see you tonight though?" Rel asked him with an apologetic expression. "And don't forget to water the plants for me."
"Yes, you will." He said hastily.
Link sprang to his feet and paced down the hallway, making his way to the basement. Feeling more determined than ever, he lit one of the oil lamps and started sifting through the piles of books in front of him. After a while of sorting and reading, Link found himself seeking solace in the company of his thoughts and a strategically hidden bottle of liquor.
He devised a peculiar game for himself, a drinking game of sorts. Every time he reached a dead end in his research, he would take a gulp of the beverage. After a while, he all but abandoned looking for this elusive language and started reading Shad's notes. As he took in the new information, Link made note of the names "Owen" and "Sharla." He deduced that these two were the adoptive parents of the missing boy.
Delving deeper into their worlds, Link lost track of how much he was drinking. He remembered reading about the boy's soul and how it related to his own and Zelda's.
As the day progressed, Link was absolutely enamored with the historical records. He sifted through countless documents and dusty tomes, eager to find any clues and connections. By dusk, his search yielded very few results. With each set back, he found himself indulging in yet another drink. By the time he stood up, he was finally feeling the effects of his self-imposed game.
By the time he made his way upstairs, the revelry of the midsummer celebration was in full swing, at least for Telma's establishment. There were quite a few extra patrons that evening as the pub hummed with their laughter and merriment. Link also noticed that there was a musician playing a lute in the far corner, much to the people's delight. He made note of how odd that was.
Feeling a little unsteady, Link made his way to the bar and sat down beside someone.
As soon as he took a seat, the person turned to him and gave him a smile. It was of course, Rel, who was taking the night off. She seemed content to sit by herself, her energy calm in the midst of the celebration.
Feeling a surge of confidence and a loss of inhibitions, Link returned Rel's smile.
"One glass of your finest… wine!" He instructed Telma.
With a knowing look, Telma glanced at Rel before glaring at Link. Rel lifted her eyebrows and returned Telma's look.
"I saw that!" Link spat out, far louder than her normally would.
Rel chuckled to herself as Telma eyed him up and down again.
"Link, I will give you one drink if you promise me that you aren't already drunk."
Struggling to hear her over the chatter and the music, Link leant in closer.
"Since when did you have musicians?" He asked slowly, trying to disguise his inebriation.
"You can thank Rel for that. She was the one who found him." Telma replied.
"Ohh- That must have been your errand." Link said to Rel.
Rel held up her own drink, a friendly gesture.
"Link. I am not cleaning up after you if you're too drunk." Telma shot back at him. "Promise me!'
"I promise!" He replied, holding his hands up. "Why don't you join me for a drink?"
"Because I am working you fucking idiot."
Link opened his eyes wide and turned to Rel, giving her an animated shrug. Rel's composure broke slightly as she snickered to herself. Telma placed two goblets of wine in front of them and turned back to her work. There was a steady stream of people waiting to be served by her.
Trying to hide his staring, Link looked Rel up and down slowly. She was wearing a burgundy-colored blouse and the same leather pants from earlier. He kept looking away from her, not wanting to admit to himself that he liked what he was seeing. Rel finally caught him looking and lifted her eyebrows. Unsure what to say, Link tried to focus his eyes on her.
"You're tall." Is what he managed to blurt out.
"And you are drunk." Rel shot back, her tone short. "An astute observation from someone who is-" She made a gesture with her hands. "At least this much taller than I am."
Even in his current stupor, Link knew he'd touched on a sore spot.
"Forgive me Rel." He paused, trying to keep himself from slurring his words. "But your height makes you look- posit-tively- STRIKING." He finished.
Despite her displeasure, Rel was amused by that. Telma glared at Link and shook her head.
"Thank you very much Link." She replied happily. "I think that's the first thing you've ever said to me that hasn't been measured politeness."
Link's eyes widened as he felt offended.
"I am offended, REL." He declared before pausing.
Link forgot what he was trying to say, his mind jumping to his conversation with Ilia earlier that day. He thought about how he'd told Ilia that he thought Rel was beautiful. The memories caused his cheeks to flush. He leaned in closer to Rel, with the brilliant idea that he was going to tell her this.
Finding the situation very amusing, Rel leaned in closer to him.
Telma, with one final shake of the head, turned around and retrieved a bottle of wine. She placed it in front of Rel.
"Here." Telma explained. "It's actually my nicest one. A gift for you Rel, for the wonderful job you do around here."
Rel blushed as Telma filled her goblet up with the wine. Giving Link another displeased look, Telma didn't fill his.
"That's not right Telma! I demand to speak to the owner!"
Turning his attention back to Rel, Link tried to speak to her, but found himself too embarrassed or drunk to say anything. They sat side by side, their hands accidentally touching each other occasionally. The atmosphere had a continued vibrance as the night went on.
"There's nothing wrong with being tall." Link suddenly declared after a while.
"For you." Rel interrupted. "For me, it has been a continuing source of embarrassment."
"Bah!" Link grunted with an exaggerated hand gesture. "Says who?"
"Says most men." She answered swiftly. "You see all these men in here? Dancing with girls? None of them want to dance with a tall girl."
"A radiant tall girl." Link said, trying to correct her.
Rel smiled at this comment, their conversation continuing. The drinks flowed freely as they chatted happily together. Their conversation became more boisterous and rambunctious as they filled their goblets. Even Rel had become quite inebriated at this point. The effect of Link's drinking game was starting to catch up with him, making his inhibitions even more loose. As they continued to sit together, Link's gaze kept drifting back to Rel and her presence. As the sun finally set and the hours were heading deeper into the night, their conversation meandered between light-hearted banter and deeper musings.
"A Knight!?" Rel asked, her tone matching Link's. "Are you not a farmer?"
"I WAS a Knight." Link tried to explain, his words slurred. "But I left. I decided I wanted a-" He paused, searching for his words. "A wife and a farm."
"So where is your wife?" Rel asked, her lips curved mischievously. "You told me you didn't have one."
"I don't! Honestly!" He joked back. "I still need to find one of THOSE."
"Anyone in mind?" Rel asked.
"Ah-" He replied, embarrassed.
Link had to think of a distraction, any distraction. He wasn't too eager to relive his previous glory, not tonight, especially since he was having such a good time with Rel. It was the first time he'd felt a genuine connection with someone in a long time. His eyes darted to Rel's hand. He gabbed it suddenly, causing Rel to freeze in shock.
"Dance." He stammered. "Tall girl, dance with me. It's midsummer."
Link stood up, rather gracefully considering his state. He held his hand out to Rel in a gentlemanly fashion. Telma, noticing the exchange, smiled at Link warmly. Rel made eye contact with her before relenting. She looked self-conscious as Link yanked her to her feet.
"I don't dance." Rel hissed at him.
"It doesn't bother me." He replied cheerily.
The pair were chuckling within moments. It was clear that neither of them knew what they were doing and their combined drunkenness made it a game of stumbling as opposed to dance. Link made sure to amuse Rel by including grand gestures such as a spin for Rel. His eyelids grew heavy and he found himself leaning closer to Rel. She made sure to humor him by returning the gesture in kind.
After a few more drinks, the night was drawing to a close, Link felt a sense of exhilaration. The world seemed to fade away as he danced with Rel, leaving only the two of them together in the room. A spiraling room.
Link realized what was happening and was fast enough to stumble towards his stool. Telma marched over, knowing exactly what was coming next.
She shook her head in displeasure, letting out a few motherly tuts.
"I told you Link." She jeered. "I knew you were too drunk. I'm not cleaning up after you. Go to bed. NOW!"
Telma's firmness surprised Rel, as she'd never been on the receiving end. Realizing that she had encouraged this event, Rel put her arm around Link's shoulders. She stood up, encouraging Link to stand with her. His legs betrayed him as Rel tried to lead him away.
With an enthusiastic wave to Telma, Link leant on Rel as she dragged him toward the stairs. He tried his best to cooperate, apologizing profusely as they painstakingly climbed the stairs. With gentle hands and supportive gestures, she guided the stumbling Link to the hallway, their laughter echoing in the space. With unsteady steps, Link's mind was a pleasant haze.
They made it to Rel's doorway before Link hit the ground. Without thinking, Link crawled halfway across the floor of Rel's room before stopping entirely. His eyes were shut within moments and he started snoring gently. Nudging him with her foot, Rel suspected that he would be dead weight and accepted that this was going to be his resting place for the evening. She didn't feel irritated by it as she was partly to blame for the situation.
She tiptoed around him, making her way to his room to retrieve a pillow and blanket. She gingerly placed the pillow under his head and covered him with the linen. The room was bathed in a soft, gentle glow from the moon filtering through the window, casting a serene atmosphere.
Rel stood for a moment, observing his peaceful slumber. A mixture of amusement and tenderness filled her mind as she brushed his hair off his face, knowing that it would stick to him sooner or later.
Knowing that he was out cold, she got changed into her night clothes before collapsing on her own bed. Rel was also feeling the effects of a night of drinking and fell asleep soon after.
That night, despite his drunkenness, Link had another vivid nightmare.
Before falling into the deep state of slumber, he thought he could feel someone touching his face. After the awareness had subsided, his mind became shadowed by an enigmatic nightmare. Through the darkness, a vision emerged, painting a scene of his hometown.
He felt like he was a young teen again, wandering the familiar streets of his home. The sandy streets felt so familiar as he looked at the sparring ground where he, Liom, Darpa and Zue had spent so much of their time as children. The bright light of the sun cast shadows across the cobblestone pavement.
Out of the corner of his eye, Link saw the shadows taking on a different form. Link was all too familiar with this nightmare. His heartbeat intensified as the shadows obscured his view, casting an ominous pallor over the vibrant setting.
The sky darkened and the air thickened. A faint flicker appeared in front of Link, small flames that danced and twisted. They stayed in the same spot, as if they had a mid of their own. Link could almost feel the intensity of the flames in his heart, his body warming as the danced.
Willing himself to move closer, Link stepped toward the flame. He adjusted his eyes and identified a small trinket inside of them. It looked like a heart, with black veins like tendrils, bursting out of it's center.
Snow began to fall from the sky, softly at first, and then strengthening to a blizzard within seconds. He could see his hometown plunging further into decay, every living thing dying around him. The screams of the villagers echoed in his ears.
And then, as soon as it had started, Link was ripping himself from the clutches of the nightmare. He woke abruptly, his body drenched in sweat as he gasped for breath. Despite his current state, his mind raced through the vivid images of the nightmare. He did, however, notice that he was laying on what felt like a wooden floor.
With a great amount of effort, Link pulled himself up, his senses disoriented. He craned his neck around, finding a bed at his eye level. He saw his shirt and boots spread around him and started to panic. The soft morning light was proving to be a hindrance, his eyes squinting as he tried to adjust to being awake.
With another deep breath, Link tried to rise from the floor. His mind and body were still feeling the full effects from the midsummer celebration, and he could swear that he was still somewhat drunk. With bleary eyes, Link lifted his eyes to see Rel's concerned gaze.
On making eye contact with her, Link felt an overwhelming sense of embarrassment and shame.
"I can't remember how I ended up on the floor-" Link stammered, trying to mask his shame with a smile. "Wait- Did I? Did we?"
Rel's gaze remained stern, the green tones of her hazel eyes illuminated in the morning sun.
"How long were you watching me?" Link ask in a panicked tone.
"You were thrashing in your sleep." Rel paused. "You were obviously distressed."
Link gazed upon her elegant features, before looking into her eyes. He found himself wanting to be honest with her but feeling like she wouldn't believe him if she knew about his dreams.
"Ever since-" Link stopped to collect his thoughts. "I sometimes see things. In my nightmares."
"We all see things in our nightmares." Rel said calmly. "What makes yours different?"
"Sometimes, I see things that are abstract. Sometimes, it's images of things that have happened. And sometimes-"
"It's things that are yet to happen?" Rel finished his sentence.
Link gave Rel a nod as her eyes widened.
"And what did you see?" Rel asked as her tone carried a sense of urgency.
Hesitating for a moment, Link gave himself some time to collect his thoughts. Rel continued to watch him intently, waiting for him to speak.
Link softly ran his hand through his disheveled hair, trying not to aggravate his strong headache.
"I dreamt that I was in my hometown. By the desert. But it was snowing… This isn't the first dream I've had about the snow either. There was a malevolent force present. A heart was on fire and there were black tendrils radiating from it. It was… consuming. Everything."
Rel's brow furrowed as Link looked at her, searching for reassurance.
"Black tendrils?" She asked with urgency. "How?"
"I don't know what they mean."
"Link." Rel began, her voice remaining measured. "How long have you had these dreams? These glimpses?
Link hesitated, a newly found sense of trust forming. Contemplating his response, Link tried to remember the first time he'd had one of these visions.
"I ask you once more, how long has this been happening?"
"For as long as I can remember. They've been apart of me since I was a child, haunting me at night and manifesting during the day. I relive the more awful moments. When I am not reliving heartache, I see future heartache."
Link sighed and collapsed in on himself, wrapping his arms around his legs. He was shaking from the alcohol and sweating profusely. He tried to lift his head but was met with resistance. He quickly gave up and groaned instead.
Rel sat down beside him, crossing her legs, before placing her hand on his shoulder. Link lifted his head enough to meet Rel's concerned gaze.
"Link, what you posses is an extraordinary gift." She reassured him calmly.
"Are you an expert?" Link asked her with a weak smile, attempting to lift the mood.
"I've known another with a similar gift." Rel informed him. "If this is what I think it is… To have the ability to see secrets and possibilities- to catch a glimpse of veiled paths- it is truly rare."
Link looked at her with shock, not knowing what to say.
"How can a serving girl know such things?" He murmured. "Who are you really?"
Rel stood up and brushed her clothing.
"Meet me in your work room later." She concluded.
Link's mind raced again, trying to comprehend what had just happened. His thoughts were overwhelmed, however, by the effects of the last night's overindulgence. Link was right, he was still drunk. He tried to focus on his hands, his eyes bleary and sore.
Understanding that this wasn't the best time, Rel gave him a reassuring pat on the head. It was at that moment that Link thought he recognized the hand on his face from last night. She delicately stepped around him, making her way out of the room.
Unable to stand, Link laid down once more, burying his head in the sheet.
The day was long and unbearable for Link. The pounding headache and body aches were exacerbated by the summer heat. In between much needed sleep and sweating it out, Link began to feel like he could move by nightfall.
He attempted to reflect on the nightmare, assessing it for meaning. He took solace in the fact that sometimes his dreams weren't literal, that they could be left up to interpretation. By the time he'd sobered up, he was actually more worried about what he might have said after he had blacked out. Link enjoyed his life of solitude, but he wasn't going to complain about spending the night in the company of a woman, even if he'd made a fool of himself.
After a slow rise, Link was able to stand.
Throughout the day, he could have sworn that he'd heard Rel checking up on him. Knowing that he only had himself to blame, Link cursed himself for being so hungover.
Moments later, Rel was in the doorway. She leant on it, looking at him with a sly expression.
"Show me your work room?" She asked cheerily.
Shivering, Link looked at his discarded shirt on the floor. He opted for the sheet that Rel had given him, creating a cozy cocoon of linen. Link trudged in her direction.
"Are you at least going to wear shoes?" Rel asked him in a cheeky tone.
"No." Link shot back abruptly.
Rel followed Link patiently as he slowly descended the stairs, one careful step at a time. They reached the basement finally.
"Does Shad know about this?"
"No." Link responded again.
Link paused.
"Does Telma know about this?"
"No." Rel responded, mimicking his tone.
Link smirked to himself at that. He made a mental note that Rel had a good memory.
Link unlocked the door, making sure to keep the key close. He'd left it in his trouser pocket, leaving it vulnerable to be lost in his inebriated state. He thanked the goddesses for not having lost it.
Stepping passed him, Rel made her way to the work table, eyeing the piles purposefully.
"Rel, I am confused. What are you doing?"
She continued to search the stacks, clearly knowing what she was looking for.
Link continued to watch her confusedly. After a few moments, she retrieved a small piece of parchment. The letter.
"What are you doing?" Link stammered.
Rel gestured for him to be quiet. She pulled out a chair, motioning for Link to follow her lead.
"I tried to leave you clues." Rel informed him, sternly.
"What?" Was the only thing Link could think of to say.
"Clues." Rel explained. "I left a book here about ciphers."
Rel paused, looking for the volume. She reached out and placed it squarely in front of Link.
"Here." she said, pointing to the cover of the book.
Link found himself completely speechless. If Rel hadn't surprised him enough earlier, she definitely was now.
"You know this language?" Link asked her in astonishment.
Rel smiled.
"It is a cipher, not a language." She said matter-of-factly.