Despite his complete and utter physical exhaustion, Link found that his sleep was still rather restless. The weight of everything was beginning to catch up to him and he found himself being dragged further and further into depression. Every time he closed his eyes, all he could see were tendrils of black veins, running through each living thing. He saw darkness enveloping every corner of the land as all the plants and animals died slowly. The only light that he saw in his vision was that of uncontrollable fire, turning everything in its path into ash.
During his wakeful moments, he wondered if Rel was comfortable and sleeping, or if she was stuck in as a restless state as he. She was set on curing whatever malady had been placed upon her and Link couldn't fault her ambition, admiring her initiative and determination.
The morning rolled around quickly, with Link getting up as soon as he saw the sun filtering through the curtains. He knew there was no point trying to fight the inevitable and hoped that if he created a routine, his sleep would return to normal.
As he began dressing himself, Link swore he could hear the front door lock being tampered with, again.
Confused, Link stood by the door, wondering if Rel had accidentally locked herself out. He watched as the lock jiggled in the doorframe, waiting for the assailant to let themselves in.
The door flew open, causing Link to jump. Standing in the doorway was Dornan, with a hairpin in his free hand and a stack of books in the other. His foot was elevated, indicating that he had kicked the door open.
Link sighed. "Are either of you capable of knocking on a door?"
"I don't care for knocking." Dornan huffed. "Very few doors are unopen for me."
Pinching the bridge of his nose, Link shook his head.
"All you have to do is knock. Both of you have broken in now."
"Blame Aurelia." Dornan shrugged.
"Why? Did she give you a key?"
"No, she taught me how to pick locks when we were twelve."
Link was admittedly impressed by Rel's sleight of hand skills. He would need to remind himself to ask her to show him later. He still racked his brain, trying to figure out how Rel had stolen things from his pockets without him noticing and if he were being honest, he'd like to best her in the joke just once.
"What's with the books?" Link asked Dornan bluntly.
"Oh these?" Dornan began. "The book on top is for Shad's research, though he hasn't discovered anything that we don't already know about the souls and your reincarnation hooey. And these-" Dornan lifted the books to show Link the spines. "Are for Aurelia's condition. Hopefully."
The meaning of the words echoed in Link's thoughts, causing him to shudder slightly. Link wondered if he would be able to help Rel with her condition, trying to think of where to start. He couldn't help but feel he was needed elsewhere and felt guilty for not being busy with any tasks. It wasn't like he had anything else to do, other than watch the grass grow as he waited for Zelda to return. If they were particularly lucky, Auru would be able to offer them some guidance.
"She's got her heart set on it." Dornan explained. "Despite what her calm demeanor would suggest."
Link thought for a moment. "I'm starting to doubt how much Auru will be able to help us. Both you and Rel seem to know a lot about the divine already."
"We were supposed to meet this wise man anyway." Dornan shrugged before placing the books on the table.
"Why didn't you see him already?" Link perplexed.
"Because Aurelia fucked off to your little village, remember?" Dornan scoffed. "I had to spend my time running around after her instead of getting on with it."
At her mention, Rel seemingly appeared out of nowhere. She gave Dornan a disdainful look.
"I didn't hear the door being knocked." She observed. "How did you get in here?"
"You taught me how to pick locks, remember?" Dornan asked her.
"I wish I hadn't."
"Very kind of you Aurelia, especially after I spent all night slaving away, trying to find a way to help you."
"That's the least you can do."
"Don't you think I fucking know that?"
Predicting that another argument was about to happen, Link forced himself to intervene.
"We were discussing how Auru might be able to help you. Dornan also found some books that might have information." Link reassured her.
Recoiling, Rel shook her head.
"I'm still not going up there. I've seen the guards around." She shuddered.
"Which is why we are bringing him to you! Open your ears for once!" Dornan interjected. "Besides, you can't just fuck around here for the next decade, avoiding confrontation and shirking your responsibilities!"
Link felt compelled to change the subject as soon as possible.
"Did you send the letter?" He asked Dornan.
"Yes, I gave it to the ashen haired knight. Good fellow." Dornan said calmly, somehow able to change his tone of voice suddenly.
"That's a relief." Link sighed. "We should go soon."
"You are right. Aurelia, stay in your room. Stay." Dornan commanded, speaking to her as if she were a pet.
With a roll of her eyes, Rel went back to her room, Link stealing a glance as she exited. He hoped she wasn't too upset by the interaction as she left wordlessly.
"I saw that." Dornan said slyly.
"Saw what?" Link asked as coolly as he could manage.
Dornan looked him up and down, thinking hard. "You can't go in that."
"Huh?"
"Your clothes. No. They won't do."
"What's wrong with my clothes?" Link asked, offended.
"I'll be right back." Dornan blurted out before dashing for the door.
Link waited for a short while before Dornan was back, a dark shirt in his hand. Link gave it a quick look before shaking his head in disapproval.
"No. I'm not wearing that, I'll look like I'm going to a funeral." Link protested. "Everyone will know that something isn't right."
"I won't hear a word of it." Dornan snapped. "Now put on the dark blue, you'll look exceedingly handsome. Like me."
Losing his will to argue back, Link followed instruction and put on Dornan's shirt. As much as he hated to admit, the shirt was finely made and very comfortable. What was even worse was that the fit was so nice, Link wanted to keep it, or at least buy his own.
"At least there's no frills." Link murmured petulantly.
"It's made of silk. Much nicer than your linen." Dornan explained.
Link rolled up the sleeves of the shirt, not wanting to give Dornan the satisfaction of knowing that he liked the shirt. It was still warm enough for Link to pass it off as feeling too warm.
"AURELIA!" Dornan shouted, once again causing Link to jump.
A moment later, Rel was back in the living space, her arms folded and staring at Dornan.
"Tell your trick that he looks nice in my shirt."
"You really are disgusting, did you know that?" She hissed back.
"That's not what I asked."
"A trick?" Link questioned, unsure if he'd heard Dornan correctly.
Rel gave Link a quick glance before her eyes darted back to Dornan.
"It looks nice." She said flatly.
"Good." Dornan huffed, making his way toward Rel.
He was in her personal space soon enough, staring at her face. She turned away from him, trying to avoid his gaze as he followed her around, almost like a child taunting their sibling.
"What are you staring at?" She sneered.
"Oh, nothing." Dornan sighed. "Come now, we must go."
Dornan marched toward the door, Link trailing him.
"Uh- Goodbye, Rel." Link said awkwardly.
She returned his gesture with a soft smile.
"Meet us back here, later." Dornan barked at her.
"Fine." She shot back.
The men set off through the main square of the castle town, neither of them striking up conversation. Link tried to ignore it, but the silence was becoming more and more awkward by the moment. Dornan made a sudden stop, Link watching him as he fished around in his cloak. Producing a flask, Dornan unscrewed the cap and took a swig.
"Are you really drinking this early in the day?" Link asked judgingly.
"What difference does it make?" Dornan queried. "Why can I drink at 9pm but not 9am?"
"You're an interesting man Dornan."
Link stepped off around him and quickened his pace.
"I can tell you are nervous!" Dorna called out, following him.
It was Link's turn to halt their momentum, allowing Dornan to catch up with him.
"What would I be nervous about?" Link asked him flatly.
"Uh- Goodbye, Rel." Dornan chirped, mimicking Link's delivery. He started cackling to himself as Link watched him. "You tell me." He cooed, waving the flask in front of Link's face.
It was true, Link was becoming nervous, and he couldn't quite place it as to why he was feeling this way. He hadn't been to the castle in years, despite being invited on several occasions. He knew that Zelda still wanted to keep him close, as evidenced by her recent behavior, but he'd made the decision to stay away and wanted to remain firm on the matter. This still wasn't reason enough for his anxiety and it was starting to feel overwhelming as he tried to think of a reason.
Dornan was still waving the flask at Link, thrusting it in his direction. Unhappy that Dornan was able to read him so perceptively, Link took two swigs from the flask and handed it back.
Screwing up his face, Link coughed a few times.
"Keep it!" Dornan chirped as he pulled another flask out of his cloak.
"What is in this?" Link wheezed.
"It's a liquor, made from grains and aged in a fine oak barrel."
Link led them back on track, heading toward the castle. Already feeling bored, Dornan decided to bombard his companion with questions.
"How old are you?" Dornan asked casually, taking another swig from his flask.
"Twenty-Four." Link snapped back, hoping that Dornan would take the hint that he wasn't in the mood for his antics.
"When did you turn twenty-four?"
"Nearing the end of spring."
"As was I! I'll drink to that."
Link quickened his pace.
"Why are you walking so fast?" Dornan called out.
"Because one of the worst people I've ever met is asking me stupid questions."
"Who, me?" Dornan paused.
"What do you think?"
"I see." Dornan stopped once more. "So why did you stop being a knight?"
"Because I don't like having to answer to people like you." Link fumed.
"People like me?" Dornan chuckled.
Link glared at him, opening his own flask and taking a large gulp.
"So where are you actually from?" Dornan continued.
"You've been there. I'm from Ordon."
"No, you're not." Dornan insisted. "You've got the stupid ears."
With a sigh, Link tried to calm himself. "First of all, my ears aren't stupid. Secondly, I'm from Ruffilio. Rel joined me on my journey out there recently."
"Oh, Lord Ruffilio, I wonder how the old man is, especially since he and the entire town went missing for years. How does a whole town just disappear?" Dornan asked with a raised eyebrow.
"How do you know about that?" Link asked, his tone harsh and uninviting.
"I already told you. I see everything." Dornan explained. "How odd that you took Aurelia with you. Were you taking her to meet your parents?"
"My parents are dead."
"That's shit." Dornan started. "But that doesn't answer my question."
"Because Rel wanted to join me."
"Why?"
With shaking fists and an abrupt stop, Link turned his full attention toward Dornan.
"You really get on my nerves, do you know that?" He snapped.
Cackling to himself once more, Dornan waved his hand dismissively. "Why do I get on your nerves so much? You have such a bad temper." He observed, coupling the question with a disgusting, pompous grimace. "Do tell, I can only guess."
They were interrupted by a small group of young women walking in their direction, all of whom seemed to be admiring Dornan. He didn't appear to notice, even as the prettiest blond woman openly gushed over him. Even now in the early morning and drinking heavily, the man looked the picture of nobility and attractiveness.
"Did you see that?" Link sighed. "All of those girls were fawning over you. You don't even seem to notice. It's like you're so accustomed to being admired that you act like royalty."
"So?" He chuckled. "The brunette was looking at you. How did you not see that?"
"That's not the point!" Link snapped back. "My point is that you expect everyone to fawn over you. You act like you're a god amongst the rest of us-"
"I mean, is that inaccurate?" Dornan interrupted. "I am descended from the most beautiful and wise of the three goddesses."
"You're so smug that it's infuriating!" Link ranted. "You've got all the money in the world, yet you have no class. You're rude, pompous and provocative. You think you're the smartest person in the room and you put other people down to make yourself feel better."
Dornan smiled, drinking from the flask. "I am hilarious, aren't I?"
"And worst of all, you're absolutely awful to Rel and I can't figure out why! She's angry at you about something, and from what I can tell, you deserve it."
For the first time that morning, Dornan's face finally fell, even if it was ever so slightly.
"She is careless with her responsibilities and impossible to instruct."
"And there it is again!" Link spat. "You've built this wall of smugness around yourself that's so thick, you think you're untouchable."
"I am untouchable." Dornan smiled.
"FUCK." Link exasperated, downing another large gulp of whatever liquor was in his flask.
Still seething with frustration, Link knew that he wasn't going to be out of Dornan's company any time soon. For as long as Rel was in Hyrule, Dornan would be present too. Dornan eyed Link uncomfortably, watching him amusedly, almost challenging him to continue the question game.
"What do you do outside of all this?" Dornan asked calmly, gesturing to nothing in particular. "I saw your book collection."
"Obviously reading." Link sighed. "I love my plants and my animals."
"I adore animals." Dornan smiled.
"I could tell. You are very kind to Epona."
"She is absolutely beautiful. I've always had an affinity with creatures."
"What about you? What do you do outside of all this?"
"Drinking. Smoking. Reading. Music."
Link let out a laugh. "Music?" he asked, genuinely surprised.
"Oh yes. You heard my singing." Dornan started as he pulled a third flask out of his cloak, replacing the empty one. "I also play the harp."
"The harp?" Link laughed. "I refuse to believe it."
"Music is a powerful skill." Dornan explained. "And I'm quite good at it, ask Aurelia."
"Amazing."
"We can't all be gifted with sword swinging." Dornan shrugged.
"Gifted? It's a skill. It takes practice." Link explained.
"You'd get more attention from girls if you played an instrument." Dornan said smugly, giving Link a side eye. "They find it far more impressive than swordplay."
"I'll take your word for it."
With a strong sense of relief, they finally reached the castle gates. Link was one or two more questions away from strangling Dornan, who just didn't seem to care about anything. Dornan appeared to have a slight wobble in his step, unsurprisingly considering how much alcohol he'd consumed on the walk there. Link looked at the gates before chugging the rest of the liquor in his flask, causing him to wheeze. He felt a profound sense of dread standing outside the gates.
"Slow down!" Dornan slurred, holding up his second flask. "Cheers!"
They were greeted by a couple of guards, one of whom recognized Link. After a quick explanation, they were allowed through without question, explaining where to find Auru.
"Well, that was easy. I wonder if we will see the brat here." Dornan observed.
"I'm not going to stick around regardless. I have too much bad history within these walls." Link stated.
"Oh, I can only guess." Dornan slurred. "I can see-" he used his fingers to pry open his own eyelids. "You."
"Are you already drunk?" Link laughed.
"Does it matter?"
They were at the gardens quickly, Link making sure to keep an eye out for Auru. Dornan scoffed as he eyed the landscaping, glaring at the monotony of it.
"This place is fucking ugly. It needs more landscaping. What a shit garden." He sneered.
"Finally, something we can agree on." Link observed, his legs feeling light. "I'll lead the way."
They reached another checkpoint, this time being stopped by two sturdy spears.
"State your business." One of the guards demanded.
"We are here to greet the wiseman, Auru. Tell him that an envoy from Labrynna has arrived." Dornan said eloquently and confidentially, as if he'd not had a drop of alcohol that morning.
"Is he expecting you?" One of the guards asked Dornan apprehensively.
"Obviously." He scoffed.
"We will escort you there."
"No need, I've got this blond servant."
Before anyone could say a word, Dornan used his hand to push one of the spears out of the way, barging past the guards without a second thought. Apologizing to one of the guards, Link trailed after him.
Standing in the garden was none other than Auru, looking as wise as ever, with Zue standing nearby. It took Auru a few moments to recognize Link, the passage of time since their last meeting evident.
"Is that you Link?" Auru asked. "Look at how tall you are now!"
Link waved his hand dismissively, gesturing to Dornan.
"Who is this?" Auru queried.
"I am a visitor from Labrynna. Let's take a walk." Dornan suggested.
"A walk? Do we really have time for that?" Auru asked, confused and impatient. "I've been waiting for you for weeks! I can't even find the other one!"
"Let's take a walk." Link reiterated, gesturing toward the far wall of the garden. Understanding that they needed privacy, Zue motioned for Auru to follow them.
Once the group was as far away from the guards as they could get, Dornan relaxed.
"I apologize for the lateness of my arrival." Dornan explained eloquently. "I am here now, ready to be of service."
Link had to hold in a chuckle. He was amazed at how quickly Dornan could turn on the charms, given how repulsive the man was on the best of days.
"This is unorthodox, I admit." Auru sighed. "I know you are one of the oracles."
"I would expect no less from someone as wise as you."
"But I must focus my attention on finding the other one. I have been in shambles, trying to find them since the summer." Auru explained. "Though, having you finally arrive has alleviated some of my burden."
"Oh, we know where she is." Dornan disclosed casually.
"I beg you pardon?"
"Yes. You see, I focused my attention on finding her after arriving with that clown of a captain all those weeks ago. Naturally you understand why I hadn't presented myself to you yet."
Auru was astonished. "Well, where is she?"
"That's why I am here. There is a sense of distrust in authority. We can take you to her. Tonight." Link explained.
"I read that in your letter Link, but you should know more than anyone why I can't just leave."
"Wait!" Zue interrupted. "Are you talking about Rel?"
"Keep your voice down." Dornan instructed.
"Why hasn't she presented herself to me?" Auru demanded. "I have been searching for her for almost two months! The guards have been mobilized, looking for a murderer and a missing girl!"
"You just answered your own question. Because the two events are related." Link suggested.
"What?" Auru gasped.
"You'll have to come to that tavern." Dornan explained. "Meet us there at midnight."
Knowing that he was backed into a corner, Auru sighed deeply. "I won't meet her unless I follow your instructions, will I?"
"Correct." Dornan chirped.
"How do I get there without being seen?"
"The tunnel." Zue suggested. "I know the way."
"Very well." Auru sighed. "Midnight it is."
"Most excellent! I will see you gentlemen at the stroke of midnight." Dornan clapped enthusiastically.
Grabbing Link's shoulders, Dornan tried to turn him away.
"One more thing-" Auru started. "I have important matters to discuss with you, Link."
The moment that Link had been dreading arrived. His mind raced, trying to think of what Auru could mean. There was always something, whenever it came to these walls.
"What about?" He asked calmly.
"I will speak to you tonight."
"Very well."
Before Auru or Zue could speak again, Dornan led Link away, dragging his arm. Dornan was stumbling by this point, using his might to put one foot in front of the other while using Link as a load bearer. Link himself was also feeling the effects of the liquor and he was cursing himself for using it to alleviate his anxiety. He started to feel very warm and had a feeling that it wasn't from the sun.
They tried their best to walk straight and act normally as they made their way back to the front gates. Once outside, Dornan burst into one of his signature cackling fits.
"I didn't think I would have the gall! But I did it!" Dornan burst out laughing.
"What do you mean?" Link asked him, feeling lightheaded.
"I trapesed through the castle drunk."
"Are you serious?"
"Yes!" Dornan wheezed. "I thought it would be really funny. And by the look of it, you're drunk too!"
"Fuck."
Dornan continued cackling as they made their way into the town square. Link was in complete denial about how much he'd had to drink, trying his best to appear relaxed and unbothered. He found himself forgetting where they were, looking for familiar landmarks to guide the way back. After a while, he recognized the clothing vendor that he'd visited the previous day with Rel. Feeling a surge of confidence, Link nudged Dornan.
"Dornan, give me your wallet." Link suggested.
"Alright!" He said happily, shoving it into Link's hand.
Link straightened his shirt and made his way toward the clothing vendor. A short while later, he emerged holding the deep burgundy cloak that Rel had admired the previous day. He found Dornan sitting cross legged on the pavement, being doted on by two young women. One of them had knelt to his level, gently holding his hand as the other one fussed over him.
"I am well, fine maidens." He said charmingly while waving his hand. "My friend has arrived to take me back to my betrothed."
"Come back and see us any time!" One of them gushed. "You can bring your friend too!"
The girls rushed away, giggling as they glanced back at Dornan.
"You really had a lot to drink, didn't you?" Link asked him, ignoring his own lightheadedness.
"It was worth it." Dornan smiled as he pulled himself to his feet. A moment later, he looked at the cloak in Link's hands. "What's that?" he asked mischievously.
"it's for Rel." Link explained quickly.
"Really?"
"Yes. What's wrong with that?"
Dornan's smirking continued. "Did you hear what that young woman said?"
"Uh- no." Link replied sheepishly.
"Very well. Let's head back."
The stumbling continued on Dornan's part as Link led him back to the residence. He didn't even bother trying to take Dornan back to Telma's, the man was drifting in and out of sleep and was becoming a dead weight. Feeling a sense of shame, Link realized this is what he must have behaved like on the night of midsummer.
With great difficulty, Link had dragged Dornan through the front door, while also juggling the cloak that he'd just purchased for Rel. They would have looked comical from an outsider's perspective, one man absolutely blind drunk and the other tipsy before it was even midday, dragging each other through a busy marketplace. With the added dead weight, Link opened the front door with an elbow, Dornan close on his tail.
Rel was sitting by the fireplace, a book in hand, staring at them both in disbelief. She wasn't sure if her eyes were playing a trick on her as Link guided Dornan in her direction. She closed the book in her hand, standing up to greet them.
"What-" She started, looking to Dornan for an explanation. "What did you do?"
"A friendly peace offering." Dornan slurred.
She turned her attention to Link, looking for an explanation. "What did he do?"
"He got drunk before going to the castle." Link began. "He said he th-"
"Thought it would be funny." Rel said, finishing the sentence.
"Uh, yes. That." Link said slowly, trying to hide his own inebriation.
Rel sighed. "Just put him on the lounge chair." she instructed, obviously having been through this numerous times before. "And maybe take yourself to bed."
"Bed?" Link asked, trying to behave casually.
"I don't doubt he pressured you into joining him."
"The man is a good sport!" Dornan announced. "He can hold his drink."
"I am well aware of that." Rel said with a smile. "You should probably sleep this off."
Dornan immediately kicked off his boots and unbuttoned his shirt. He happily threw himself onto the lounge chair, wrapping himself in his cloak. Moments later, he was snoring quietly. Link made an effort to stay upright, sitting down at one end of the grand table, the cloak sitting beside his hand. Rel turned to him, giving him a look that asked 'well?'
"I was feeling nervous. Going to the castle." Link blurted out. "He offered me a drink. I took it."
"You don't have to explain yourself to me. "It's fine. It is actually kind of funny." She reassured him.
"Oh! Good!" He chirped back.
Rel's eyes shifted to the cloak beside his hand.
"What's that?" She asked curiously.
"This?" Link asked, feigning ignorance. "It's for you." He admitted after a short amount of time.
"What?"
"Here."
He slid the cloak in her direction, watching her as she inspected it. With delicate fingers, she unfolded the fabric, opening it slowly.
Rel's eyes lit up when she saw the deep burgundy fabric. Running her fingers over the wool, she gasped.
"Link, I can't accept this." She breathed.
"Don't mention it, you seemed to really love it yesterday."
"I do love it." She explained. "But I can't accept such an expensive gift."
"Just keep it." He said calmly, standing up from the seat. "Can I ask you a favor?"
"Of course."
"Can you wake us up at nightfall. We have the meeting at midnight."
"Oh." She said, slightly worried. "I will make myself presentable."
"You look fine to me." Link insisted.
"I'll keep that in mind."
Link turned on the spot, heading toward his room. He wasn't anywhere near as drunk as Dornan was, but the alcohol combined with the exhaustion was an opportunity for him to get some extra sleep, without the expectation of having to do anything throughout the day.
Link collapsed on his bed, feeling comfortable for the first time since he'd arrived. He undressed himself to the sound of Rel filling the tub with water. As he started to drift off to sleep, he found himself wondering what she might look like in there. Cursing himself for having such unsavory thoughts, Link covered his face with a blanket.
He awoke, feeling surprisingly refreshed, to Rel slightly shaking him. She was looking down on him with a warm expression.
"It's evening." she said quietly. "This is your wakeup call."
Looking up at her, Link suddenly remembered the thought he'd had earlier, imagining her behind the bathroom door. Feeling ashamed, he sat bolt upright, startling Rel with the sudden movement.
"What did Dornan say?" Link asked, feeling panicked.
"About what?" She replied, confused.
Feeling a sense of relief, Link relaxed a little and leaned back.
Rel was already standing, making her way back to the living area. Putting Dornan's shirt back on from earlier, Link followed her, watching as she tried to wake the sleeping guest. She stood firm, with her hands on her hips, glowering down at him.
"Wake up." she commanded.
Dornan groaned, trying to sit up right. His head was in his hands, his complexion pale and clammy. Noticing his pallor, Rel softened her posture.
"Dornan?" she asked, this time markedly more concerned.
"This is inconvenient." Dornan groaned.
Realizing that something was wrong, Rel turned to Link.
"Maybe it's from the drinking?" Link shrugged.
Resting his head in his hands, Dornan was noticeably trembling, rocking a few times on the spot. With a look of familiarity, Rel tried to garner his attention. He gave her a worried look as he wiped the sweat from his forehead.
"A motion of events has been set forth." Dornan said ominously. "They cannot be undone."
"Is this because we went to the castle?" Link asked sheepishly.
"No. All I see is the flames. Poison. Death"
"Maybe you should tell this to the wiseman." Rel suggested softly. "Both of you should prepare yourselves."
Rel turned in the direction of her room, making an attempt to move. With a swift motion, Dornan grabbed her wrist as hard as he could.
"No you don't." he said gravely.
"What do you mean?" Rel asked innocently.
"You are not leaving my sight. If you try to avoid this meeting, I swear to Nayru, I will turn you into the guards myself."
"Unhand her." Link demanded.
After a few tense moments Dornan finally let go of Rel's wrist, keeping eye contact with her the entire time. She silently challenged him back with a severe gaze, refusing to back down. Astonished that they went from one extreme to the other so quickly and knowing that he needed to intervene, Link attempted to reassure Rel.
"He can help you, with, this- sickness."
"Are you sure?" she asked, finally turning away from Dornan.
"Just give him a chance." Link suggested.
"I will." She said after a few moments before taking the seat closest to the landing.
Nearing midnight, the group made their way back to Telma's Pub, letting themselves in through the back door. Unsurprisingly, Telma was still awake and working, though a little shocked as she hadn't expected them. Shad was also present, giving them a small wave as they made their way over.
"It's good to see you, my friend!" Shad cried enthusiastically as Dornan met him. "I see you also brought the man who abandoned his friend in a time of need."
"Abandoned?" Link grumbled. "I didn't abandon you, I was instructed to stop helping you. If you have a problem, take it up with Darpa."
"Oh, he has such a bad temper." Shad sighed to Dornan. "Thankfully I have your help."
"Indeed." Dornan said rather flatly.
"I suppose someone is using the tunnel." Telma interrupted, commanding the entire group's attention.
"Auru." Link informed her.
"Rel, can you lock up after? I want to go to bed."
"Of course, Telma." She said happily.
It still warmed Link's heart to see Telma and Rel interact, the way Rel pronounced her name was an added layer of tenderness between them. As Telma passed her, she made sure to stroke her hair and brush any strands out of Rel's face.
"I'll be joining you." Shad said smugly. "Being that Auru is my mentor, so to speak."
"You only just found out about his visit." Link observed.
"I will never turn down an opportunity for academic mentorship."
Without another word, Link led the way down the hallway, taking the entire group to the basement.
Auru was already waiting for them when they entered the room, his robes disheveled and dusty, an unimpressed look upon his features. His eyes immediately drifted to Rel, surveying her features. Before anyone could say anything, Auru spoke to Link.
"Is this the Oracle of Seasons?" He asked Link.
"I am." Rel answered, stepping forward.
Auru pulled out one of the chairs, positioning himself at the head of Shad's worktable. He motioned for Rel to take the seat closest to him. She followed his lead, sitting close to him.
Looking at her intently, Auru sighed.
"You're late young lady." He said in a fatherly fashion, sighing. "You've caused quite a stir."
"Wait!" Shad interjected. "How does Rel know Auru? What's an oracle? Seasons?"
"She doesn't know Auru." Link snapped. "Maybe shut your mouth and listen."
"My apologies." Rel replied flatly. "But I was delayed, clearly."
"You were supposed to present yourself to me on arrival. What happened?"
"I was delayed." She repeated.
"Aurelia, cooperate." Dornan commanded.
Folding her arms, Rel began to fidget.
"Rel was attacked on the day of her arrival." Link started. "By an unknown assailant. Ever since then, she has been unable to use- access- her… magic, things."
"Thank you for that, really." Dornan said sarcastically. "Do continue to dazzle us with your incredible insights."
Shad let out a loud laugh and was quickly met with a glare from Link. He adjusted his glasses and turned his head away.
"What do you mean?" Auru asked Rel.
"After the- stabbing… Since then, I have somewhat lost my connection to- her." Rel explained.
"Her?" Shad asked.
Auru's expression remained grave as he looked to Link for reassurance.
"She ended up in here, by chance." Link explained. "Telma nursed her back to health."
Auru leaned back, his fingers stroking his beard. "That would make six." He murmured.
"Six?" Shad interrupted once more. "Wait, are you talking about the souls?"
Ignoring him, Auru turned his attention back to Rel. "May I see the wound?" He asked her gently.
Rel obliged, lifting her leg and rolling up her trousers. With a delicate touch, Auru examined the scar, his brow furrowing as he looked closely.
"This is advanced magic." He whispered. "Who on earth could have done this?"
"Apparently your guest up at the castle is gifted in magic." Rel rebutted. "Perhaps we could ask him?"
"That's a serious accusation." Auru observed. "Do you have any evidence?"
"Just the words of Din herself."
"Din?" Shad queried.
Link gave Shad a warning look, who returned the gesture with a flushed face.
"Do you know what this is?" Rel continued, completely ignoring Shad.
"From what you've described, it seems to be a binding curse, or something similar." Auru explained.
"What can I do about it?"
"This will require some deep research on my part. I've not seen anything like this in person, but I can feel the darkness emanating from it. Your connection to Din seems to be strong enough that you are still standing. Tell me, in what way, have you been able to regain your connection?"
Rel looked to Link, her eyes begging him to intervene.
"Rel was called to the Temple of Time." Link explained. "She heeded their call. I know, because I followed her there."
Dornan remained unusually quiet. It was especially noticeable, given that the man was unable to stop talking most of the time.
"You were called to the sacred realm?" Auru asked, astonished. "This is very perplexing. I believed it to be sealed! By Zelda's own hand!"
"We were called there." Link reiterated. "And we were greeted by Din, Nayru and Farore."
"Incredible…" Auru gasped.
"The women carried a dire message. They claim that the foundations of this kingdom are crumbling." Rel stated.
"And we were instructed to maintain the natural order. Zelda must remain in power."
"Zelda?" Auru asked. "But the king is alive and well!"
Dornan stepped forward, clearing his throat. "I believe this is where I may be of use."
Giving him a quizzical look, a flicker of recognition crossed Auru's features. "You would be the seer oracle."
"Indeed."
"What else have you got to tell me?" Auru sighed.
"An extension of the original message, so to speak." Dornan murmured. "For that vision has run through my mind for many years, never before have I seen the death of a monarch."
The room fell silent, even Shad knowing that this wasn't the time to speak. Without an invitation, Dornan sat down next to Rel, giving Auru a solemn look. Returning the intensity of his gaze, Auru spoke first.
"How?" He whispered.
"His mind." Dornan answered abruptly. "Black veins. Venom."
"Could you be more specific?" Shad suggested.
"Unfortunately, no."
"When?" Auru asked, his voice barely audible.
Dornan thought deeply for a few moments. "Perhaps the winter. It was snowing."
"Snowing?" Link sputtered.
Rel's head snapped toward Link.
"Is there something you two would like to share with everyone?" Dornan fumed, looking from one face to the other. "Do tell. We are shivering with anticipation."
"Link had a dream, about snow." Rel explained.
"How kind that you answer for each other." Dornan snapped.
Auru was watching the entire interaction, his expression grave. His arms remained folded tightly, his brow furrowed as he listened to them.
"Auru, what are you thinking?" Link asked, trying to get the conversation back on track.
"Do not repeat what I am about to disclose to you, but this oracle is correct." Auru gestured to Rel. "The young man at the castle is gifted in magic. I see no point in lying to you, as you have all been truthful with me."
"I could have told you that." Dornan huffed.
"So, I propose an exchange." Auru began. "Zelda needs both of these young men at the castle, under the watchful gaze of the wise. I assume all of you are aware of their heritage."
"Very aware." Shad added.
"Lady oracle, I wish to help you. You are instrumental in everything that is to unfold, this- seer- would have told you that. It is paramount that this-"
"Malady." Dornan scoffed.
"That this malady is removed." Auru continued. "This will, however, take me some time. Presently, Zelda wants me to watch the wards."
"And one of them is missing." Link groaned.
"Precisely." Auru answered. "I need answers. Where is this young man?"
"The last time I saw him, he was in an estate out east." Dornan explained.
"Ask the estate owners where he is. Find him." Auru finished, looking directly at Link.
"That's bizarre." Link started. "Because I was told to abandon that task."
"And it isn't right. Someone is trying to hide something from us."
"Great." Link snapped back. "Fucking great."
Rel gave him a sympathetic look before turning her focus back to Auru.
"The task had been given to me, but I feel that helping this young woman here is paramount."
Letting out of sigh of relief, Rel leaned back in her chair. From that moment, the group was in agreement. Auru was to turn his attention to the malady that had befallen Rel since her arrival, with Link agreeing to check the estate out east in exchange. It wasn't the outcome that Link had expected, but it was enough to know that Rel would be helped sooner rather than later. After a seemingly endless exchange of plans and strategies, the group were finished for the evening.
Auru left in a somber mood, with a goal to work toward. The remaining friends filtered out of the basement, making their way toward the empty darkness of Telma's Pub. Shad bid them a quick farewell before heading up to his usual room. Dornan, with great disdain, followed Shad shortly after, still unhappy that he was staying at Telma's.
Rel, as promised, locked up the bar as she and Link made their way home.
It was the early hours of the following morning by the time they climbed the stairs at the home across the way. Both Link and Rel were in gloomy moods, neither really saying much. As Link was readying himself to sleep, Rel interrupted him quietly.
"I'm going with you." she said quietly.
"Are you sure?" Link asked, feeling a sense of comfort knowing that he would have a travelling companion again. "What about Telma?"
"She will understand. I need to find him. I refuse to believe I am wrong."
Giving her a smile, Link nodded his head. "That's fine. I like your company."
"And I like yours." Rel said as she turned on her heel, going to her room.