The warmth of summer had begun to embrace the bustling streets of Hyrule Castle Town. The energy and vibrance resonated with the townspeople, as they prepared for another summer festival celebration. Although the festivities weren't due for weeks, the air was filled with excitement, for these simple celebrations had become milestones for the people to look forward to as the year progressed, a long stride from the unpleasantries of several years ago.
The main square, with its signature fountain was adorned with summer flowers and vines. For years, the kingdom's Princess had instigated festivals and gatherings for the people to admire. Looking forward to Zelda's celebrations and holidays had become the norm for the townsfolk. Everyone, including the royal family, had seemingly fallen into a routine of peace and comfort, as they had nothing to worry about in the new age of light. Hyrule Castle stood tall and proud as pillar of resilience, a testament to how the kingdom had overcome the era of twilight.
Despite the new era of peace, several guards were always stationed throughout the city. Princess Zelda remained ever vigilant, having been kept awake for many a night. She had been present during and blamed for the invasion of darkness that happened seven years ago. The guards and the knights, however, did not share her same apprehensive attitude. They stood there in presence, but their minds were more attentive to the vibrance and goings on of the castle town. Most of the guards wouldn't even notice anything suspicious happening within the city walls.
It was an exceptionally warm day, with not a cloud in the sky. There had been murmurs that despite the season, the warmth was unprecedented, with many people worrying about how to keep cool. Local children had taken to playing in the fountain, while their parents stayed out of the sun.
Amidst the throng of people entering through the southwestern gate were Link and Rusl. They looked as inconspicuous as ever, making it hard to believe that either of them, let alone both were involved in the war that happened seven ears ago.
They chatted happily amongst themselves, laughing at one another's jokes. Both men strolled at a leisurely pace, despite moving several pounds of Ordon Village produce. Link lead his faithful mare Epona through the gates as Rusl walked ahead.
Link had changed a lot over the last seven years. His appearance had changed in the most obvious ways, he was taller and broader. But, a darkness had befallen his thoughts, his eyes sometimes appearing distant and cold. Rusl, the closest thing Link had to a father, often noticed this and had to remind himself that this is the same man who the kingdom relied on all those years ago. He often wondered if Link was unhappy with the change of pace, but it was evident that Link loved his life in Ordon Village.
Rusl had effortlessly gone back to his life as a family man. Although he had taken his role in the Hyrule resistance seriously, he took his duty as a father even more so. He still treated Link like he was one of his own, forever worried that this strong young man was missing out on a more exciting life. He would always care for Link and hoped that he would eventually pull himself out of this stupor in his own time.
"Well Rusl, where do we go first?" Link asked him, breaking his train of thought.
Rusl thought for a moment.
"With this midsummer Ritual that our Princess has distracted everyone with, I'd say that the eateries will need stocking up."
Link smiled.
"I suppose we will end up at Telma's then?'
"What a pity!" Rusl feigned disappointment. "As always Link. Don't drink too much before I join you."
"Never."
Rusl smiled as he watched Link lead Epona toward that direction. He reflected on how much Link had grown, as it had been almost a full decade since Link had arrived at Ordon. The once young boy now stood eye to eye with him as they smiled at one another.
"And don't you forget that." Rusl replied. "Sip slowly!"
Link used his free hand to clasp Rusl's shoulder before bidding him a temporary farewell. He gently pulled Epona once more, leading her in the general direction of Telma's.
Once Rusl had departed, Link retrieved a letter from his trouser pocket. Unbeknownst to his companion, Link had an ulterior motive for joining him that day. The letter was from none other than Shad, another Hyrule resistance member turned Ordon villager. He hadn't fully understood the meaning of the letter or why Shad hadn't just told him himself. What troubled him was the sense of urgency in which it was delivered. Link was bemused at the thought of having to travel all the way to the city to see his now neighbour, but tried to see the positive side, a break from the complacency of his routine.
Link was amused at that thought. Not many people can say that they spent their entire life trying to become a knight of valor, only to walk away from it and become a farmer. Such is the life of someone who resented having the obligation to serve the royal family. Link was happy that Zelda had allowed it, but had always questioned her motive.
Lost in thought, Link only just noticed the familiar façade of Telma's Pub. The entrance was equally distinct, as it was one of the only places on that street that was below street level.
"Alright Epona, I'm going to take you to the stable." Link whispered to her.
Leading her to the stable out of sight, Epona whinnied happily. She was getting on in years and was happy to get out of the sun. Link made sure to fill the trough with cold water for her as she gently nudged on his shoulder.
"I know, I know." He smiled, retrieving a fresh apple for her out of the saddlebag.
He gave her one last scratch behind the ears before making his way inside the tavern. He let himself in the back way, situated between the staircase and the bar.
Telma looked up, pleased to see Link as he made his way in.
"Link, to what do I owe the pleasure today?" She crooned at him.
"I would say an ale or a cool drink on a day like this." He paused. "But not right now. I received a letter from Shad."
Telma looked at Link and rolled her eyes.
"Ah yes, he's set up some sort of workspace in the meeting room." She winked.
"He suggested I make haste."
"He hasn't told me what he doing either. But that's Shad isn't it? Not one for spoken exposition, but in writing? Supposedly the most articulate man in the kingdom."
Link would always love this tavern. It held such significance for not only himself, but for everyone who stood up during the era of Twilight. Telma had not changed much since then, albeit a few extra grey hairs. She was still as buxom as ever despite her age and still insisted on dressing stylishly. Telma took pride in her appearance and Link could not remember a time when her dark auburn hair wasn't styled meticulously.
Telma leant down behind the oak bar.
"Here." She slid something to Link, a key. "You'll need this to get into the meeting room downstairs. Even in peaceful times I am cautious."
Picking up the key, Link thanked her. She reciprocated the gesture with a gentle nod.
It had been a while since Link had made his way down the small hallway, finding them somewhat concealed door. To an untrained eye, it looked like a boarded-up hole in the wall. Like he had many times before, he slid the key into the lock, making his way downstairs.
The basement meeting room was absolutely miserable, save for the dim glow of dusty gas lantern in the centre of the table. Shad, almost blending into the surroundings, was leaning over a roll of parchment. He was holding a small magnifying glass in his hand, intently reading whatever was etched onto the scroll. Surrounding him were stacks and stacks of what appeared to be ancient tomes, books and even more parchments. Link stepped forward.
"Shad?"
Shad jumped at the sound of Link's voice. The sudden change in volume had startled him. He realized that he hadn't even noticed Link enter the room.
"Link!" Shad shouted. "You damn near gave me a fright!"
"My apologies." Link smirked. "But I could say the same thing about this letter I received. What's so urgent?"
Shad stood up and stretched before taking off his glasses.
"Oh yes." He mused as he started polishing the lenses with his shirt. "I cannot see out of these damn things anymore, perhaps I need new ones."
"Perhaps you need to work with more than a dim light." Link rebutted.
"Obviously you noticed that I am working in this dingy room." Shad chuckled.
"That's unkind of you Shad. This room holds significance for all of us."
"Nevertheless Link, you would also have noticed that I not working in our dear Ordon for this assignment."
Link raised an eyebrow. "Am I here to play 'state the obvious' with you or are you finally going to disclose the meaning of this work and-" he paused, retrieving the paper. "This letter."
"Fine Link. Pull up a chair." Shad sighed.
Sitting down beside Shad, Link noticed the sheer amount of literature in front of them. Clearing his throat, Shad pulled a long piece of Parchment in front of them.
"I know this is most likely a redundant question. But, are you familiar with the reincarnation cycle?"
A cold shiver ran down Link's spine as his jaw tightened feeling his posture stiffen.
"Moreso than you."
"As I thought."
Link looked over the longest piece of parchment. It was an intricate drawing, almost looking like a family tree.
"This looks more like-"
"The study of lineage." Shad responded.
Returning the look, Link gestured to the parchment again.
"I've been called upon by Princess Zelda to try and figure out who the next.. Vessel is."
Leaning back, Link rested his hand on his chin.
"I know it seems strange that I've been called upon for this task. But, Zelda fears that- seeds of distrust."
Link raised an eyebrow and looked at Shad suspiciously.
"Furthermore." Shad paused, pulling another scrawling parchment in front of them. "There appears to be more."
"More?" Link snapped. "More of what?"
"More of you."
Folding his arms, Link went back to reflecting quietly. Shad began to point to one of his many scrawls on the paper.
"I've traced it back and back and back. The more I trace, the more confused I become. This is sinister." Shad contemplated.
"Wouldn't Auru be interested in this?" Link asked quietly.
"Zelda.. Doesn't want the castle to know about this."
Link nodded. It was starting to make sense. Shad, despite being a bumbling fool at times, was very adept in the ancient studies of Hyrule. It was through his tireless work, Link's influence and sheer dumb luck that they were able to find the ancient Ooccoo city.
"And.. it was with displeasure that I reached out to you Link. Zelda is worried."
"Why?"
"She believes that if anyone were to find out about- this- that we would be in grave danger."
"We?"
"Her. Me. You. All of us. I wouldn't have left my wife behind for something small."
Link gave Shad another quizzical look.
"And.. it is with a little displeasure that I am reaching out to you. The young people of the village look up to you in a way that I am quite envious of."
Feeling his ears heat up, Link smiled. "To be fair Shad, they've known me for most of their lives. They also saw me grow too."
"I know Link. It was through talking to them that I was informed that you are actually a far more learned man then you let on. Colin, he especially looks up to you. He said you have an extensive book collection."
"You would know that if you visited every once in a while." Link smirked.
"He also said you've got some sinister looking tomes."
"Us Knights, during training, all of us were expected to be educated people. It's not something I really talk about, not si-" Link cut himself off before he could disclose anything else. "I will make sure to thank Colin for his kind words."
"Yes, well." Shad paused. "As you can see, the work here is overwhelming and with this secret, I require help and protection."
Link continued to ponder, taking in all this information.
"I definitely didn't expect this." He said after a while.
"Princess Zelda has requested that this is dealt with, with utmost secrecy. It has something to do with his soul." Shad informed Link, his tone grave and concerned.
It finally fell into place for Link. Of course, Zelda was conducting research on this. Since the death of the Demon King on the great field seven years ago, the distribution of power had been imbalanced. Link wondered who would inherit that power or if it was lost to the ages.
"I do not want to make any promises at this stage." Link said thoughtfully. "I'm not sure if I am willing to undertake another task for the royal family."
Throwing up his hands in frustration, Shad began ranting. "I suppose so, what with all the pumpkins and goats that need your tending to?" He paused for dramatic effect. "Do not squander this Link. We are on the precipice of danger in this kingdom!"
Feeling a little vindicated from the interaction, Link stood up from his seat.
"And!" Shad declared loudly. "This. THIS, could be my life's work. No one else has ever extensively documented the whole, soul, thing."
Feeling a little frustrated, Link stood up from his seat. He glanced over the paperwork before shaking his head.
"Goodbye Shad. I'm going upstairs to drink."
"So? Can you help me? I need an assistant and protection!"
"Maybe." Link replied with a nonchalant shrug.
"You know I wouldn't be asking if Zelda didn't set me up?"
"Mhmm."
"Just a maybe? Zelda has promised I will be the most renowned scholar in the land!" Shad pleaded. "I'll just wait here then!"
"Sure Shad."
"I miss my wife!" Shad called out, his voice cracking. "This is going to be my life's work! My name will be revered for years to come!"
"You already said that Shad." Link replied flatly.
Link made his way up the staircase, leaving Shad in darkness.
A short amount of time had passed since the start Link's conversation with Shad. Despite this, his eyes needed a few moments to adjust to the normal daylight in Telma's Pub.
He took a seat on his favourite wooden stool, the one at the end of the bar. Link found himself in deep thought, pondering over Shad's proposition. Before he had even realized, Link was hunched over and frowning. No matter how many times he ran through the conversation again in his mind, he was still confused as to what the true purpose of this was. Despite his friendship with Zelda, Link was still distrustful of anything set by her. There was almost always a hidden agenda, or some deliberately omitted information.
Before everything had happened, Link was not one to think too much of superstitions and prophecies. But after witnessing firsthand the existence of other realms, magic and reincarnation, Link was not going to underestimate the necessity for this all to make sense. In earlier years, he had often found himself trying to make sense of it all. If anything, Shad was a wonderful scholar and probably the most trustworthy man in the kingdom to embark on this academic voyage. Link considered the amount of confusion and heartache he could save for another person.
Losing track of time, Link had finally made his way to the bottom of the tankard of ale. Not wanting to not make good on his promise to Rusl, he pushed the cup away.
Noticing that he had finished his drink, Telma eyed him from behind the bar. She was grasping two large Ordon Melons in her hands and winked at him.
"And what does Hyrule's most honored swordsman think of my Melons?" Telma asked cheekily.
Link let out a laugh.
"Farmer!" He corrected her playfully.
The front door of the tavern swung open. Rusl, heavy with sweat and sun exposure, walked slowly through the tavern. His homespun Ordon Tunic, despite having the sleeves rolled up, were turning transparent.
"It was hard enough to barter with those merchants, but in this heat? It's almost unseasonable." He panted.
Gripping the collar of his tunic, Rusl waved it back and forth to create airflow. Link waved to him before lifting his tankard in the air and pointing at it.
"You're right Link." Rusl groaned, making his way to the stool beside Link. "Some water first though Telma. It's still a little early for this old man."
Telma stashed her melons behind the bar before returning with some water and an ale for Rusl. Rusl smiled in return and thanked her graciously for the two drinks.
"Alright Link. Tell me why you came to Telma's fine establishment early."
Link shrugged.
"It was just a feeling. Something, or someone was telling me to check on Shad. It's been a week or so since he's last seen Ilia." Link paused, feeling guilty for lying.
Rusl nodded a few times.
"From what he tells me, he misses her."
"Poor lad." Chuckled Rusl.
Link cast his eyes down, not wanting to invite anymore conversation on this particular matter. Ever since the time of Twilight and the following years, Link found it easier to be guarded and secretive. He'd taught himself to keep his thoughts inside and felt uncomfortable expressing them. It was a habit he'd picked up after facing the entirety of that journey concealed in shadow. Whatever happiness Link experienced was fleeting, knowing full well that he was cursed.
Rusl didn't seem to notice, instead downing his water as fast as possible so that he could move onto the ale. He was about to speak when a loud ringing bellowed nearby.
All three of them looked towards the door of the tavern.
"That sounds like an emergency." Telma stated calmly.
The bells were distant, but loud enough to echo throughout the whole building. They continued to bellow, causing Link's ears to ring.
Rusl looked around the tavern.
"Do you smell that?" He enquired.
"I do." Replied Link.
Link stood up, craning his neck around the corner of the bar. Not having seen anything, he looked near the windows as Telma watched him quizzically. She shook her head once or twice before returning to the glass she was polishing.
"Is that a fire?" Link asked.
"It's not in here."
"Where do you think it is?" Rusl asked Link.
"It's not close enough for us to see. I don't think we are in danger." Telma finished.
Taking his seat again, Link found it hard to ignore the bells. Even when he wasn't involved and after all he'd been through Link still preferred to help others. Trying to ignore the sound, Link went back to thinking about the situation with Shad.
The noise eventually began to die down, the three of them starting to discuss amongst each other where the fire could have been. Rusl, with a keen eye managed to see a small plume of smoke through one of the back windows.
"Mystery solved." He stated. "It looks like a small fire. Probably caused by this ungodly heat."
A sense of relief washed over Link as the tavern became quiet again.
By midafternoon, rain began to pelt the windows. It was not lost on any of them how unusual this seemed, granted that it had been hot and dry only a mere hour or two ago. Telma remarked on how strange it was but chalked it up to good luck for them.
"This will only deter my customers more!" She groaned. "At least it will help with that fire."
The front door opened gently and a figure stood in the archway. It was hard to make out any features, as it was still relatively bright behind them. The rain was loud against the cobblestones outside. Telma, feeling a little relieved made sure to greet the new patron.
"Welcome!" She chirped. "We have good wine, food and rooms-"
A sudden movement caused Telma to stop. The patron seemed to be struggling to walk down the small steps into the tavern. Whoever it was, they were struggling to stand and after a few steps, the individual fell onto the floor.
Link and Rusl immediately sprung to action, rushing over to help this visitor out.
"Link, lift his feet." Rusl instructed.
Link followed his instruction, grabbing the individual's feet as Rusl lifted them up by the shoulders. Telma appeared by their side with a bucket of water as the two men hoisted the dead weight onto floor in front of the bar.
"He's out cold." Rusl stated. "Link, take his hood off and check his breathing."
As Link slid the hood of the person's head, it appeared that the mysterious visitor wasn't a he. Fiery auburn hair was stuck to her face, no doubt from a mixture of sweat and the rain. The woman was pale and clammy, her breathing ragged as she tried to take shallow breaths. Link tried to brush some of the damp strands of hair from her face as he lifted her head.
"Water." he said firmly, gesturing in Telma's direction.
Telma had already anticipated this, making sure to hand him a full tankard. He held it up to her lips, but she remained nonresponsive.
"At least she's breathing," Link stated calmly. "But it's shallow. Her skin is so pale, she almost looks grey.
Rusl dropped down beside Link, having found one of Telma's cleaning cloths behind the bar.
"Here, let me." He directed, dipping the cloth into the water bucket. "I don't think this is a typical case of heat exhaustion."
Rusl began to clean her face.
"I would say this woman is either sick or injured. Link, can you see anything?"
Link gave her arms and torso a quick glance, searching for any sign of injury. As his eyes moved further down her body, he noticed a deep red stain on her tight trousers. It was difficult to see, as she was wearing what appeared to be dark leather riding pants and matching boots.
"That may be our culprit."
Examining her right ankle, Link raised it slightly. She winced slightly as he untied her boot as gently as possible. Link tried to roll her tight pant leg up, causing her to cry out in pain. Knowing there was no other way, he pushed it up firmly, revealing a deep gash. Her calf to ankle was bleeding heavily as Link glowered at the wound before him.
"Rusl, look at this."
Telma knelt beside Rusl, offering to keep her elevated as he moved on.
"Hmmm."
"That looks like-"
"A sword wound." Rusl murmured, finishing Link's sentence.
The two men looked at each other gravely.
"Who would attack a defenseless woman with a sword? In these times?" Rusl asked.
Reaching for a clean cloth, Link began to gently clean the wound. It was vicious, definitely not the sort of injury that would heal by itself in a few days. Link considered how serious it could get, for if she didn't bleed out tonight, she was still in danger of fever and infection. Even someone like himself would struggle to wait this one out.
Thinking fast, Link stood up.
"Telma, where are the strong spirits?"
"Behind the bar, under the counter."
Link returned quickly with a dark bottle of spirits. At that moment, the front door of the tavern swung open. A few townspeople tried to walk in, quickly confused by the scene unfolding before them.
"I'm sorry!" Telma called out. "We're opening late today!"
The uncertain patrons backed out slowly, leaving a small puddle of water from the rain in their wake.
Link opened the bottle and gave the spirit a smell, leaving a dull burning sensation in his nose. He used his free hand to hold onto the woman's leg.
"Please forgive me for this later." He said quietly to the woman. "Rusl, hold her still."
Giving Rusl a quick nod as Link poured a generous amount onto the woman's leg. The moment the spirit made contact with her leg, she let out another loud cry. Finally opening her eyes, the woman gasped for breath as her back arched in pain.
"Hey! Are you alright?" Rusl pleaded.
In her delirious state, she didn't respond. Seeing an opportunity, Link wrapped her leg in a clean cloth.
"We will be in need of an actual Doctor." He cautioned.
"She will be in need of a bed and some clean clothes. We can take care of it while we wait." Telma sighed. "I doubt she can breathe in that."
Telma pointed to the woman's tightly laced corset over the top of a dark blouse.
"Ensure that she receives Telma's utmost hospitality."
On the count of three, Link and Rusl lifted her. The poor woman winced in pain, her skin remaining clammy and damp. They moved with as much care as possible, taking their time to move her up the stairs. The man carefully laid her down in the bed, Telma making sure to sit down beside her.
"I'll take that off her." Telma said with another sigh. "I'd prefer her to keep her dignity for now. Rusl, can you fetch the doctor? Link, you stay here."
Amidst the chaos, no one had noticed that Shad had followed them from the main area of the tavern. Wiping down his glasses, he looked at the scene before him.
"I came up here to see what the commotion was about-" Shad faltered.
He stopped talking abruptly, noticing his three friends. The colour drained from Shad's face as the three of them gave him an alarming look.
"Why- Why are you? There's blood! Who is bleeding?" He stammered. "Who is that? Why are you taking her clothes off?"
The situation proved to be too much for Shad. He fell backwards, before hitting the floor with a loud thud, not before hitting his head on the doorframe.
"Oh! For all that is good!" Telma exclaimed.
On exiting the room, Rusl nudged Shad with his foot slightly. Telma shook her head dismissively before turning back to the woman's corset.
"She's starting to shake." Rusl informed them. "Keep her alive long enough for me to bring Borville back."
Wiping the blood from his hands on his tunic, Rusl sighed.
"It's a shame. I was quite fond of this one."
Rusl was gone in an instant, his loud footsteps echoing through the empty hallway.
Link stood up and looked down at the woman on the bed. Judging by her style of dress and her features, Link estimated that she couldn't be much older than his 24 years. Her skin, despite being drained of colour from the ordeal, was quite clear and her hair was vibrant. He pondered this as Telma finished untying her corset. Once it was loose enough, the woman took a deep gasping breath. Wiping a few strands from her face, Telma greeted her.
"That's a beautiful colour." Telma crooned gently.
Feeling a slight sense of relief, Link finally noticed how tense he was from the ordeal. Years ago, this sort of event was a common occurrence. But now, during such peaceful times, this was quite unsettling. He was painfully aware that this was no mere accident, having received several sword injuries himself.
The minutes painfully ticked by, mostly silent save for a few groans from Shad. After what felt like forever, they finally heard the footsteps and grumbling of one Doctor Borville. He hobbled into the room, throwing his work bag onto the floor with a loud thump. The short statured, elderly man was not impressed.
"You better have a damn fine reason for demanding a house call! And in the rain?" he complained.
Link leant against the wall, folding his arms as Telma gestured to the bed. The makeshift bandage Link had made was now soaked dark red as Borville looked her up and down.
"Oh my.." Borville pondered out loud. "This is not what I was expecting."
"Did Rusl not tell you what happened?" Link asked him ruefully.
"No, he did. I just didn't believe him when he said she was a HUMAN patient."
Without taking his eyes off her, Borville stretched out his arm, gesturing to his workbag. Link handed him the leather carrier. "Not a bad bandage. I assume you made this Link?"
With a nod, Link leant back against the wall. The doctor carefully unwrapped the bandage, examining the wound with seriousness.
"This is- not good." The doctor mused. "It almost looks- black in some spots?"
He fumbled around in his bag before retrieving a small vial of white liquid.
"You'll need to force this down her throat."
Borville handed the vial to Telma, watching as she parted the woman's lips, pouring the contents in.
With the agility of someone much younger than his years, Borville began to clean the wound and get to work. Over the course of an hour or so, he skillfully tended to her, finishing the task by stitching her up. As Link watched, he pondered on how bad the physical scar would be and what lasting damage might linger.
With a final sigh, Borville cleaned up his work area, wiping sweat from his brow. The woman was dead to the world, her breathing finally evening out.
"Will she be alright?" Rusl asked gently as he stuck his head into the room.
With a stony expression, Borville began explaining the situation to the group.
"The worst isn't over yet. I still fear that this woman is in grave danger. The wound is severe.. It almost looked like it was.. rotten?" He explained. "Keep an eye on her, lest she succumb to fever."
The room remained silent and tense, save for Shad who was watching from the floor.
"She will require constant care. The next day will be crucial in her recovery."
Telma glanced at Link, watching him as he stared. As if reading her mind, Link made eye contact with her before sighing.
"I'll keep watch over her until morning." Link said reluctantly.
Smiling to herself, Telma stood up from the bed and gave him a smack on the shoulder. Link staggered a few steps before waving her off.
He had considered asking Rusl to keep watch, but decided against it, knowing that Russl's family would be worried sick if he didn't return. Link knew that he would be the best person for the job, for his need and desire for sleep had been slowly waning over the last few months. He hadn't told any of his friends, not even those he considered family, that his nights had become restless. He hadn't known why it started, But Link's dreams were plagued by nightmares, glimpses of the kingdom in peril and other dangers.
"It's fine." He said flatly. "I'm not tired. I can stay awake."
Telma placed her hands on her hips, her signature gesture.
"You have a steadfast heart young hero." She chuckled as she exited the room.
Shad, looking up at her from the floor, smiled sheepishly.
"You are more of a hindrance than a help." Telma groaned at him. "Go to bed."
Grabbing Shad by the arm, Telma dragged him out of the doorway.
"One more thing." She continued. "I'll get you both some clothing. You look like you murdered someone."
Both Link and Rusl looked at each other, finally having time to take in their appearances. Telma was absolutely correct, the men looked as though they had committed the crime. Wordlessly, Borville hobbled past Link, with Rusl following him soon after.
"I'm sorry Link. Sara will be worried sick. I'll look after everything for you at home."
Rusl placed his hand tenderly on Link's shoulder, a fatherly gesture that often brought both of them comfort.
"You're a fine young man Link. You always help others, even when you are reluctant. This kingdom owes you a great debt as is, don't let that burden get heavier." Rusl said tenderly. "I'm proud of you."
The men gave each other a quick hug.
"I am assured you will look after everything while I'm still here and let them all know." Link said warmly.
"One last thing Link," Russl paused. "Make sure you report this to the guards. I don't like the idea of some knife wielding maniac being on the loose."
Rusl exited the room as Borville made his way back to the doorway. Rifling around in the overside carrier, the doctor eventually produced a small bag of herbs, as well as two vials of the white liquid.
"I almost forgot Link. Give this to her, it's a strong agent that will help with what will be excruciating pain."
He held the small vial up, showing it to Link, who retrieved it carefully from his grasp. Borville then handed Link another small bottle, this time, a darker liquid swirling around inside.
"Have a sip of this, for sleep." Borville informed him. "I'm sure she will be fine. Just, be easier on yourself. The herbs are for relaxation. Tea."
Borville paused.
"Where is Telma!? She better pay me extra!"
Within moments, Borville was gone, leaving Link alone with the injured woman. After such an eventful day, Link was at a loss of what to do next. He eyed her closely, noticing that her left boot was still on. He decided to remove the boot, thinking of making her as comfortable as possible. On removal, he noticed that she had a small dagger concealed on her ankle. Link inspected it for a few moments, noticing that it was quire ornamental, most likely for decoration as opposed to protection. But, she was a woman who was seemingly travelling alone, so it was smart to at least give the illusion of being able to fight back. He placed the dagger gently on the bedside table, making sure to make as little sound as possible.
He looked at her tight trousers, but decided against removing them. It was bad enough that she was unconscious in an unfamiliar place, the least he could do is retain her dignity. He looked at her fiery hair, which stood out stark against the white linen of the bed. He brushed a few fly away strands from her face, noticing that her ears were rounded. Link considered that she may not be a local, given that she most definitely wasn't Hylian. He'd make sure to ask her when she finally came to again.
Telma cleared her throat, causing Link's concentration to break.
"I can't keep the doors closed any longer. I will have to let the masses in." Telma announced. "Shad said he wants you to read this, since you have nothing better to do."
Telma handed him a handwritten parchment and judging by the handwriting, it was penned by none other than Shad. He looked over the poorly written, scrawling notes and felt his jaw tense. He managed to take in a few words, concluding that it was a poor summary of Shad's research.
"He said that you need to proofread this. Apparently only you will understand what it's about." Telma said with a shrug.
Link began to read it, already regretting answering Shad's call.
He wasn't sure how much time had passed, but Link's eyes were finally starting to grow heavy. He had grown weary and frustrated by reading Shad's notes. Hours earlier, Link had thrown them to the side, folding his arms and leaning back against the wall. The last thing he clearly remembered was reading about two twin boys, born 16 years ago to unknown parents.
Just as he was beginning to nod off, Link could have sworn that he heard the room door creaking. The distinct sound of the doorhandle closing was enough to cause him to stir. An eerie feeling washed over Link, he felt like he was being watched. His eyes opened suddenly, realizing that he was looking at the sharp blade of the dagger.
Panting and sweating, the young woman had somehow gotten up from her resting place without him noticing. Link was admittedly impressed with how light she was on her feet, granted that she had an injury and had also managed to ambush him.
"How did you-" She breathed, moving the dagger ever so slightly toward his face.
Despite her gusto, Link knew that she wouldn't be able to land a blow. This woman was still weak and feverish, the dagger trembling in her hands. Raising his hands, Link spoke calmly to her.
"You shouldn't be moving. You were att-"
She stood firm.
"Who are you?" She rasped. "Where- Where am I?"
Her trembling intensified. She still continued to fight, summoning what little energy she had left in an attempt to intimidate the stranger in front of her. Before Link could grab for the dagger, the mysterious woman dropped to her knees. Link ducked out of the way as the blade fell sticking straight up from the wooden floor. She swayed for a few moments, Link making sure to stabilize her shoulders. Her eyes fluttered open, revealing a warm Hazel hue.
"You're finally awake. How do you feel?" Link asked her, his voice steady.
Her eyes focused on Link as she attempted to speak. She exhaled hoarsely.
"I'm hurt. Is it bad?" She panted.
"What's your name?"
She opened and closed her mouth a few times before finally being able to answer.
"Rel."
Noticing that she had a slight accent, Link's nodded in acknowledgement.
"Rel." He repeated gently. "Welcome back Rel. We were worried that you wouldn't make it through the night."
Link stood up and pulled her to her feet, making sure to take care. He led her back to the bed, making her lay down once more.
Both of them jumped when they heard a soft knock on the door. Before Link could respond, Telma has opened the door, a surprised look on her face.
"Link, I couldn't sleep. I thought I'd check on you both." She paused, noticing that the woman, Rel, was awake. "Oh! I see our guest is awake! This is a good sign. My poor girl, we thought you might bleed out."
Rel flickered her eyes between the pair of them, confused and frightened. It appeared that Telma had thought ahead of time, making sure to bring a jug of water with her.
"Water?" She asked Rel gently.
Before Rel could answer, Telma had already poured her a glass. Link helped her sit up slightly, handing her the drink. Shakily bringing the glass to her lips, Rel took a small sip.
"That's the best thing I've ever tasted." She stammered.
Telma sighed with Relief.
"Forgive my- ungratefulness toward you. Mister?"
"Link."
"Thank you Link." She finished quietly.
"This young man sat by your bedside all night." Telma declared proudly.
Laying down again, Rel closed her eyes.
"Forgive me. I hope I wasn't too much of a burden. I can usually figure these things out myself." She wheezed.
"Well, you certainly fell into the right pub. What was your name again?" Telma asked her cheerily.
"Rel."
Knowing that his shift was about to end, Link rifled around in his pocket, remembering the vial that Borville had handed him. The white liquid gathered at the bottom of the glass as he handed it to Telma.
"This is for you." Link informed Rel gently. "It's for the pain and it will also help you sleep."
He watched as Rel struggled to breathe.
"You need all the rest you can get." Link continued. "You're going to be off your leg for weeks."
"Weeks!" Rel shrieked. "I cannot! I have important business to attend to!"
Neither Link nor Telma expected this outburst, especially given her present state. Her distress was apparent, despite her exhaustion.
"Whatever that business is, it has to wait my dear." Telma cooed softly.
Link was admittedly taken aback by this gesture. Telma was an iron-willed woman, fierce and independent. She almost always presented a hardened exterior to those around her. Feeling his heart warmed and his expectations exceeded, Link knew it was time for him to go to bed.
"You'll be in good hands with Telma." He informed Rel. "She seems to have rapidly taken a liking to you."
Feeling lethargic, Rel closed her eyes once more. The clamminess was making it's way back to her complexion, indicating that this conversation was over.
"Link, you've done a good job. Take the room next to this one. No charge."
"I'll only stay for a few hours." Link groaned. "I'll go back to Ordon, before it gets too warm."
Once Link was gone, Rel gently gripped Telma's arm.
"Please, do not report this to anyone? I don't want to cause trouble." Rel rasped.
Feeling an overwhelming sense of protection, Telma nodded in agreement.