The first rays of dawn painted the sky with a gentle brush and it was Link who was first to stir from the unnatural slumber. He found himself nestled amongst the forest with Rel by his side. He recognized them as the same trees and vines that had led them to the sacred grove. The unnatural silence had lifted, small animals and birds had returned to their places, creating a serene ambience in the forest. There was a gentle, chilly breeze that was causing the leaves to rustle in the trees. Link sat up slowly, his head feeling overly heavy and burdened. He glanced at Rel, who was still out cold, placing his hand on her shoulder and rocking her slightly.
"Rel, wake up." He whispered gently.
She began to stir after a few vigorous shakes, blinking against the light. She sat up slowly, her head feeling as heavy as Link's. Unable to keep her balance, she leaned forward, swaying slightly.
"Link- did- did that really happen?" she muttered.
"I'm not sure." He lied.
Uncertain of what to say, Link kept hold of Rel's shoulder, keeping her somewhat upright against the swaying.
"Was that a dream?" She shuddered. "What happened?"
"I'll explain later." Link replied. "Right now I have to get you home."
"But-" Rel began. "It felt too real to be a dream. We were warned about impending darkness?"
Link's mind swirled with uncertainty. He was well aware that what they'd experienced was real but didn't know how to even begin explaining it to Rel, despite the familiarity she had with the goddesses. The notion was almost completely unbelievable. His mind was particularly foggy, as he struggled to recall the information that had been relayed to them. He rose from his resting place, offering a hand to Rel. As she gripped his wrist, the touch of her skin caused him to recoil in pain.
He inhaled sharply as his wrist began to burn.
"What's wrong?" Rel inquired.
Link inspected his wrist, looking for any mark on the skin. He couldn't find anything, despite the searing pain.
"Nothing. I probably slept on it." Link claimed.
Rel understood that he was most likely lying but chose not to press further. They both tried to regain their bearings, surveying their surroundings.
"Link." Rel began. "Where is my cloak?"
"I'll buy you a new one. An expensive one." Link said calmly.
Though he was still lethargic and incoherent, Link knew the woods well enough to know the way to get home. As he led Rel through the clearing, the words of the three goddesses rang throughout his thoughts. He was recalling the divine meeting piece by piece. Din, the most dominant of the women, had ordered him to protect Rel and he had a mark to prove it. It was clear that Rel had a lot of explaining to do, although he was unsure of how to breach the subject with her.
They had walked for a short while before hearing the sound of footsteps.
Ilia, along with Rusl and his son Colin, ran into view. It was clear that Link's friends had been looking for them for a while. Their expressions ranged from concern to sheer panic, with Rusl running ahead of his companions to greet them.
The moment he reached them he embraced Link.
"Rusl?" Link asked, confused.
Rusl tightened his grip around Link before holding him at arm's length. He started looking over every last inch of Link, inspecting him.
"Thank the heavens you're fine. You're fine." Rusl repeated.
"We are fine Rusl, really." Rel confirmed.
Ilia ran toward them next, tears forming in her eyes.
"Is everyone alive?" she asked tearily.
Both Link and Rel eyed each other, not knowing what to say.
"I need someone to tell me what's wrong." Link explained calmly. He looked between Ilia and Rusl, trying to figure out what had caused such a stir.
Taking a step forward, the young man Colin spoke. He was well into his teenage years by now, becoming more mature by the day.
"Link." He began. "You and Rel were gone for three days."
"Three days?" Link shouted.
"Where on earth were you?" Rusl demanded. "What possessed you to leave without a word?"
Trying to think fast, Link glanced toward Rel. She made a gesture with her hands to suggest that they were sleeping.
"It was a camping trip." Link lied. "I wanted to show Rel the beauty of the forest."
Catching on to what he was saying, Rel joined in.
"Yes. It was my fault, really. I insisted that Link show me the sunrise."
"I showed her the Ordon Spring and Rel wanted to know if the sunrise was just as beautiful."
Rel gave Link a sideways glance.
None of Link's friends were convinced of their explanation, giving the pair odd looks and questions.
Rusl continued to bombard them with questions as they returned to the village, Rel masterfully deflecting them and diverting attention elsewhere. Shortly after, they were back in the village, with people rushing toward them and offering their well wishes. Link remained vacant, trying his best to act like Rel, refusing to answer questions. He was beginning to understand why Rel used this technique so much in conversation, as it was quite effective.
They reached Link's house.
"Rel, I see your clothes are drenched in water. May I offer you something?" Ilia asked warmly.
Rel gave her a nod.
"Follow me."
Rel gingerly tailed Ilia as she guided her through the village. She was beginning to recognize things around the village, such as the waterwheel and the family of cats that lived nearby. It was as if Rel's senses were working on overload. She could hear everything, every drop of water in the wheel, every small creature stirring and every heartbeat around her.
Ilia's house was bigger than Link's, with the advantage of being low set. It had a homely feel to it, backing onto the river, giving it a sense of calm and tranquility. Once inside, Rel noticed that the house was actually quite clean, save for the area she assumed was Shad's study. She stood in the foyer vacantly, wrapping her arms around herself to stop the shivering. The cold was very evident now, given that her clothes were in fact drenched with water.
Aware of her shivering, Ilia motioned for Rel to sit in a chair by the fire.
"Please take a seat, Rel." Ilia insisted.
Rel absent mindedly sat in the chair as Ilia busied herself sorting through her clothes. She was ale to find a simple shirt and a long skirt.
"It may not be to your liking. But they will suffice until your clothes dry." Ilia said with a warm smile.
Rel tried her best to return the gesture but was increasingly distracted by the flames in the fireplace. She watched them carefully as they danced, almost as if they were sending her a message. The flickering was particularly loud, sending shivers across her skin.
"Thank you for your hospitality, Elia. I don't know how I can repay you."
"It's Ilia." She laughed.
"That's what I said." Rel sighed.
"Oh!" Ilia giggled. "Your accent."
"It's not that bad." Rel murmured. "I try to speak like you."
"You don't need to worry Rel. You are among friends." Ilia replied. "I'll leave you to change."
Ilia went to one of the other rooms, leaving her with some privacy. Rel peeled off her wet clothing, shivering as it slipped from her skin. She dressed in the clothes Ilia left for her, sensing that they wouldn't sit properly. Ilia was shorter than Rel, the provided skirt stopping at her calves and the shirt not sitting quite right.
Unable to explain how she was feeling, Rel was certain that something had changed. She felt as if her senses were especially tender today, hearing every insect, every rustle and every drop of water outside of the house. She thought it was just vertigo and adjusting to the time difference, but it was as though she could feel the breeze on her skin, even if she wasn't outdoors. She listened carefully, hearing the smallest lick of a flame and the faintest of heart beats.
"It looks fine, don't worry." Ilia chimed in, looking in from the other room. "I'm not as stylish as you… or as tall."
Ilia hung Rel's damp clothing by the fire. She continued to busy herself with things around the house as Rel sat quietly, almost in a trance like state. She found herself concentrating on the fire, observing how the flame danced. Every time Ilia was nearby, her heart would start to race, her skin heating.
Ilia made her way back to the room, watching Rel who was deep in thought. She gently placed a teapot on the table nearest to Rel. With her attention broken, Rel turned to Ilia, who placed a cup in front her. Attempting to act normal, Rel thanked her host graciously.
"You know, it doesn't surprise me that Link could turn a… sunrise camping trip? A camping trip into a three-day run around." Ilia mused.
Rel reached out to grab her teacup, not wanting to be rude.
"Oh?" She started apprehensively. "Is he one for wandering? It's my fault, really."
Ilia stifled a laugh.
"He's always been… Unreliable. Selfish maybe?"
"Selfish? Link had always acted kindly in my company." Rel answered. "Maybe he has matured."
Ilia looked down, the unmistakable tinge of sadness painting her features. She knew that Rel was watching her, and she wasn't sure what to say.
Taking a chance, Rel decided to query her.
"Do you- Have a history?"
Ilia looked up at her, amused,
"I had my heart broken, yes. But it led to my marriage. So really, I should be thanking him."
"That's how you met Shad?" Rel asked her calmly.
Ilia nodded enthusiastically, her hand lingering over her stomach.
"It still stung, though, knowing that he was pining after another woman. I sometimes think he still is."
Leaning over, Rel looked at Ilia, noticing where her hand was sitting. She could hear the heartbeat sound again, ringing in her ears. Feeling overwhelmed with emotion, Rel took a guess.
"You are with child." Rel whispered.
"What?" Ilia faltered. "How? How could you know? I'm only a few weeks late."
Rel tried her best to drown out the noises surrounding her.
"This is a blessing." Rel sighed. "Congratulations."
"Continue to warm yourself, Rel." Ilia continued. "Do not speak a word of this!"
Outside, Rusl was still interrogating Link, demanding to know where they had gone and why they were gone for so long. He questioned everything Link told him, demanding to know why someone as experienced as him had gotten lost in the woods. Rusl finally stopped to take a breath, giving way for Link to continue his explanation.
"We just lost track of time, that's all." Link explained sheepishly.
The burning he felt in the spot Din had touched him continued.
"A fishing trip with your sword?" Rusl questioned. "And your bracers?"
"What if some goblins showed up? Or those reptiles?"
Rusl put his face in his hands, sighing deeply. After a few moments, he spoke.
"I think I see how it is now." Rusl murmured. "Was this to spend time with the girl?"
Link shrugged his shoulders. Finally able to calm down, Rusl relaxed.
"If you want to spend time with a beautiful girl, just do it. You're an adult." Rusl sighed. "Set a better example for my son next time please."
Link shrugged again, accepting that this was the narrative he was stuck with.
Their conversation was interrupted by Ilia, who called out to them. Rel was beside her, wearing a new outfit. Link had to stop himself from laughing, as the skirt was too short for Rel and it was clearly not of her style.
"You don't have to stay with this idiot Rel." Rusl joked. "I'm sure that you won't end up on a three-day sunrise excursion if you stay with my family."
Still keenly aware of what was happening around her, Rel shook her head. The sounds were overwhelming as she tried to think of what to say.
"Thank you for offering Rusl, but I want to stay with Link." She explained quietly.
Link observed the change in her usual demeanor, catching her eye as she gave him a worried look. Without a word, Rel walked in the direction of Link's cabin. Rusl and Ilia, both concerned, looked to Link for an answer. He bade them a quick farewell and followed after Rel.
Once inside, Rel sat herself in Link's library. Sitting at his study desk, she buried her head in folded arms. Shortly after, Link found her, his light footsteps distracting her. Rel didn't stir, or even so much as look at him in greeting. Link wasn't upset, knowing all too well how Rel was feeling as he'd experienced it himself and knew how upending it could be. When he wasn't being visited by these apparitions in his sleep, he was meeting them in person. The first time he'd met the Heroes Shade, he was understandably scared, so he wasn't surprised it had the same effect on Rel. He was admittedly impressed at how put together she seemed in spite of it all.
Leaning on the table, he rested beside her with folded arms. A few quiet moments passed before Link noticed a green flecked hazel eye watching him.
"Promise you won't patronize me." Rel whispered.
"I would never patronize you, Rel." Link replied.
She fell silent for a few moments.
"I know what we saw was real."
"You'd still be in possession of your cloak if it wasn't." Link pointed out.
"You've knowledge of magic that no mere citizen should have." She mused, lifting her head. "So, I need you to tell me the truth. We'd heard rumors at home."
"Is what true?"
"Remember that you promised not to patronize me. There is dark magic in this land. Twilight."
Link's whole body tensed, a swell of unspoken words and emotions beneath the surface. The burning in his wrist was back, with a deep intensity that caused his whole body to heat. He guessed that this was a warning from Din, and he knew there was no point in lying to Rel. He collected his thoughts and spoke carefully.
"Yes. It is true." He stated calmly.
"I can't comprehend it." Rel retorted. "This great evil. This forbidden magic- is it gone?"
Link sighed.
"Twilight magic is not evil." He explained. "I can understand why you might think that."
"Everything we heard- It was true. He tried to conquer this land."
"And we stopped him, with the help of the same people you are calling evil." Link added.
"I'm confused." Rel admitted.
"It is a generational curse, and I was the one who inherited it." Link explained.
"I am all too familiar with generational curses." Rel lamented back.
Hearing the sorrow in her words, Link knelt beside her. Rel was hiding her face, trying to stop the tears forming in her eyes. Link could see that she was resisting, refusing to let them fall.
"I'm just as surprised as you are, hearing a serving girl say such things. There's no way you could possibly know." He said gently.
"I cannot speak of it." Rel explained.
"How do you know of this?"
"You will have to wait until Zelda returns."
The sound of Zelda's name leaving Rel's lips with a sense of familiarity was remarkable to say the least. He tried to think of any of the conversations they'd had, wondering if he'd spoken about her in great detail.
"I've never spoken to you about her." Link started. "Other than that night under the stars, in passing."
Rel looked away.
"What aren't you telling me, Rel?"
"I can't say. Not now."
"When can you tell me?"
"Please. Wait."
Trying to think of a way to pull both of them out of their stupor, Link decided to ask her about her draughts.
"What about the book you borrowed from the infirmary?"
The day went by rather quickly, with Link attempting to find distractions for them to focus on. Rel was falling asleep early in the evening, hiding away from contact. She hadn't spoken much throughout the day and insisted that she wasn't particularly hungry, though Link made sure to keep an eye on her as she settled for the night.
Din's warning continually ran through his mind, and he struggled to sleep as her words echoed. He couldn't stop worrying and along with the confusion of what Rel had said to him, was unable to fully settle for the night. The answer that he wanted to give Darpa seemed so far away and completely slipped his mind. For the first time, Link genuinely hoped that he would be visited by a spectral vision, wanting desperately to seek answers.
On waking the following morning, Link noticed that Rel had risen before him.
It was a crisp morning, with Rel wearing her usual clothes, Ilia's laying in a folded pile near her bed. She was engrossed in a book, with several strewn around her as she sat in Link's study. A blanket was draped around her shoulders as she leant over the desk, concealing what she was up to from view.
Link woke quietly, making his way to Rel after a few silent moments.
"You wake early." Link mused as Rel focused on the pages in front of her.
"I'm feeling a compulsion. To find answers." Rel answered flatly, refusing to pry her eyes from the book in her hand.
"Answers?"
Rel glanced at Link.
"It's hard to explain."
"We've got all day." Link reassured her. "What are you searching for?"
Slamming her book shut, Rel dropped it on the table. Within moments, she was scanning another volume, flipping through the pages with haste.
"Do you recall what Farore said?"
Link thought for a moment. He was still lethargic, given the awful sleep he'd had the previous night. He struggled to remember anything at this stage.
"She said that I was her son." Link mused.
"Yes, she did. Which I will question you about later." Rel replied. "But what else do you recall hearing?"
Link thought for a moment.
"Din threatened to burn me alive." Link recalled, shuddering.
He would be lying if he said her forewarning wasn't unsettling.
"Farore spoke of sorrow, destruction and despair." Rel contemplated. "I have heard these words used before- and they're not to be taken lightly."
"What is the significance?" Link yawned.
"I want to tell you- But- I'm not sure how." Rel replied. "I don't even know where to begin."
She continued to scan the pages of the book in front of her.
"What are you hoping to find in these books?" Link asked her.
"Anything." Rel clarified. "The flames of sorrow, destruction and despair should not be taken lightly."
"The flames?"
Rel turned the book upside down, marking her place.
"I can't-" She began. "Not until Zelda returns."
"How could you possibly have familiarity Zelda?" Link questioned, critically. "So, I ask you again Rel, what aren't you telling me?"
"What aren't you telling me?" she snapped back, attempting to deflect his question. "You seem to be acutely aware of dark magic, considering some of the volumes you have in your collection."
"Is that what you're hoping to find in these books?" Link demanded quietly. "Or are you just going to withdraw and hide from me again?"
"You said it yourself. You've suffered enough." Rel replied, meeting his hostility with her own.
Link thought for a moment, wondering if he should simply come clean to Rel and explain everything. He considered taking her approach, refusing to acknowledge her questions and skirt around the subject. Feeling a sense of frustration, Link pressed her further.
"Why should I explain it to you, when you won't do the same for me? He retorted.
Rel dropped her guard, looking down at the study and folding her arms. She tapped her foot impatiently and tightened her jaw. She contemplated for a few moments.
"I need you to believe me when I say this- I want to- I desperately wish to tell you after yesterday. But, if I even so much as speak of this before the right time, I could be hanged for treason."
"Treason?" Link asked her, admonished and bewildered. "How could you be committing treason?"
"And I resent that. Because I am not of this land." She hissed back. "I don't care for princesses, kings or any royalty. What a joke."
Link still couldn't believe what he was hearing. He placed his head in his hands, exhaling sharply.
"I'm sorry, but I can't." Rel sighed.
"No." Link shot back. "Tell me now."
Rel was thinking, hard. Link could tell that she was nervous, as she used her free hand to drum her fingers on the table in front of her. She stood up, looking out of the window in the study before making her way to the front of the house to repeat the same action. She closed the curtains before making her way to her bed, sitting down. She motioned for Link to take a seat. Following her, Link made his way forward before being stopped by her hand.
"Please bring me the volume on the third shelf, far left." she instructed.
He did just that, gently handing her the book. Rel flipped the book open to a previously marked page. Link assumed this was her handy work as she searched the pages. He sat down beside her as she stopped on a page with an illustrated, detailed map.
"Do you know where this place is, Link?" She asked, her voice distant and longing.
He looked over the page.
"Hol? Hollow-Drum?" He mispronounced. "I've seen that name in written passage before."
"Holodrum, yes." She replied, the name rolling articulately off her tongue. "This is where I am from. Holodrum is my home."
His heart racing, Link glanced at her expression. He wasn't expecting her to open up to him at all, let alone as quickly as this. He assumed she was tired of being secretive for such a long time and hoped that it was because she was starting to trust him. He nodded at her, encouraging her continue.
"I am native to Holodrum. I live, well, I lived at this place here-" She turned the page over, running her fingers over the black ink of an illustration. "At the temple of seasons."
Link felt a flicker of recognition.
"The temple of seasons? Like the temple of ti-"
"Time. Yes." Rel finished. "I must admit though, after seeing the temple of time here… I felt a great sadness. Where are the caretakers? Where are the shrine women?"
"Shrine women?"
"Such is the way of Hylians."
"What do you mean Rel?"
"Rather than taking care of the temple, your leaders have left it to fall into a state of disrepair. My people, we honor the temple of seasons. It is our pride and joy." Rel explained, her voice barely audible.
"Whatever I was expecting you to say… It wasn't this." Link murmured. "I thought you were going to tell me you were a runaway bride or a fugitive."
She managed a small smile and chuckle before her mood turned somber again.
"If Dornan finds out I have told you this, I will be in trouble. Big trouble."
"Keep talking then." Link encouraged.
"Very well." She paused, trying to think of the right words. "I am a shrine maiden, at the temple of seasons. It has been my duty since I was a young girl, to take great pride in honoring Din. We are expected to be learned and wise, as well as performing dance and theatre."
"You performed dance and theatre? I thought you said you have no finesse for it." Link teased.
"And I don't!" Rel shot back, bluntly. "I couldn't even manage a pirouette. I excelled in academics, making tea and domestic duties."
"You've more good qualities than that." Link reassured her.
"When I couldn't honor Din with the dancing horseshit, I was sent to be tutored. The shrine women were- unsure. Unsure that I could fulfil my duties." She continued.
"I'm guessing this is the tutor who taught you about ciphers?" Link queried, the pieces falling into place. "Was it another shrine maiden?"
"Uh-" Rel smiled. "A shrine bachelor, if you will."
"Him." Link spat.
"Him." Rel mused. "I was sent there to be tutored. And monitored. The other shrine women, they hoped Din was wrong. I wasn't allowed to leave." Rel explained carefully. "I've no use. I am useless to them, and I will be useless here in Hyrule."
"Why did you come here?"
"I- We were invited." She stammered, her voice trembling.
"Why?"
Rel thought for a moment.
"You've the gift of foresight Link. It is very rare, but you are not the only one to possess this. You are the second man I've met with this gift."
"I see." Link replied quietly.
The conversation stalled as Rel readied herself again. She held the book delicately in her hand, absently glancing down at it.
"There is more." She finally blurted out. "It is said- It is said that, in each generation, that Din blesses one of the shrine maidens. She is granted great power and a deep connection to her. That shrine maiden interprets her messages and speaks on her behalf. She is imbued with the power to speak with the spirits of the land and wield destructive magic."
"Her soul?" Link asked Rel, not wanting to know the answer.
"An Oracle." Rel corrected him. "We would say Oracle. But yes, she is blessed with a connection to Din's soul. Nayru and Farore wanted to correct the balance, after seeing how Hylia faltered."
"An Oracle?" Link asked carefully, trying to absorb the information.
"Yes."
"Who is the oracle for Din?" He asked her, knowing the answer.
"When we were at the temple Link- When I told you I needed to tell you something." She paused, collecting her thoughts. "The oracle of Din, of seasons and nature- is me."
Rel turned away from him.
"But- I can't. I ran away." She continued.
Placing his hand gently on her shoulder, Link tried to comfort her.
"Ran away?"
"Yes. I fled. Back to Holodrum, to the main city, Horon. I didn't want Dornan to find me. But he did. He always finds me!" She shuddered. "For years, he drip fed me information, about myself being in great danger. He still hasn't told me everything. I am in Hyrule because he carried a message, a dire message and Zelda knew. I'd not heard it repeated until our shared vision."
Rel refused to look at his face.
"Link, I can't do this. I can't fulfil the role of an oracle. I can't live my life for others. I wanted to- I want so many things. I cannot have them because I am bound by the threads of fate."
Link's heart sank.
He felt empathy for Rel in this moment, for he knew more than anyone what it was like to have their destiny manipulated for someone else's gain. Unsure of what else to do, Link wrapped his arm around her shoulders. Within moments, Rel collapsed against him, her body quivering and shaking. He could hear her quiet sobs as she gripped his arm. He held her firmly, hoping that his presence was comforting to her. She returned his embrace with equal firmness.
"Is that what you spoke about, at the temple?" Link asked her, breaking the silence.
"Yes." Rel admitted. "My connection to Din was almost severed, after the attack. And yet, I feel so upset. I thought I'd be free without her, but I have missed her every day."
"My life was laid out before me Rel, before I'd even taken my first step." Link explained quietly, his chin resting against her head. "We are both victims of fate."
Rel's breathing even out as she regained her composure.
"This is why they knew you." She pressed softly. "How on earth could a man of 24 years be known as a master swordsman?"
"Yes." He replied. "Zelda, myself and the demon king. That's three."
"And your friend Shad is looking for seven." Rel replied knowingly. "I read his research."
"Did you?"
"Yes, of course. I was checking to see what he'd discovered. He hasn't found anything that we three aren't aware of."
"Which is how you found the cipher?"
"Correct."
Link thought carefully for a moment.
"Zelda, the twins, me… That takes the count up to four." He thought out loud.
"Dornan, Fi and I. That's seven." Rel said, finishing his sentence.
"I'll be damned." Link admonished. "It was here under our noses, the whole time."
"Do you know what Zelda is looking for?" Rel asked him, her tone finally calm and even.
"I don't. And I've been given two weeks to make a life upending decision. She wishes me to join her cause again and for what? You probably know more than I do."
"Dornan has kept most of it from me." Rel explained.
"Zelda was offered the power to relive her previous lifetime. She carries that knowledge with her. When it was offered to me, I refused."
"Why did you refuse?"
"I did not wish to gain the knowledge of my former self because I want to forge my own path. Live my life." Link explained.
"I thought I would always refuse. But- I cannot say goodbye to Din, not yet."
"So, we need to find a way to cure you?" Link asked her, confused and curious. "Maybe one of these books will come in handy."
His arms had loosened their grip on Rel as the conversation continued. She sat up slowly, releasing herself from his admittedly warm embrace.
"We need to get to work." She announced.
They spent the remainder of the day reading an entire library's worth of books. Each page that was identified as being of interest was left open, creating a large circle of books around the pair. Rel took pages and pages of notes, writing it in her own cipher. She explained that it was necessary, given the gravity of the information they were seeking. She taught it to Link throughout the day, giving him a quick rundown.
The academic work acted as a distraction for Rel, her sadness lifting as she excelled in the research. Link was relieved to see her smile again, admiring her demeanor as she read through book after book.
By nighttime, Rel had read every book on the subject, leaving an extensive pile of notes in her wake.
Link leaned back on one of his chairs, admiring their collective efforts.
Rusl had come to check on them in the afternoon and was satisfied that they were recovering well. Link explained the situation by saying that he was teaching Rel their language, given her accent was hard to understand. She was not pleased with this explanation but played along.
As the moon shone brightly in the evening sky, Link had had enough.
"I don't think I can process anymore book work today." Link groaned.
"I understand." Rel sighed. "I too am feeling overwhelmed. I don't think I'll get much sleep tonight either."
They settled down together, just sitting still, appearing distant and exhausted.
"I need a fucking drink." Link declared suddenly, breaking the silence.
Rel let out a loud laugh.
"You've never used that word in front of me before."
Link shrugged, standing up to retrieve a bottle of wine. He offered some to Rel who accepted it graciously. She smelt it before taking a sip.
"How long has this been sitting here?" She giggled.
"Since the last time a woman was in my house. A while."
"I find that hard to believe." She said flatly.
"Rel." Link began, changing the subject. "Tell me about Holodrum."
Rel launched into an enthusiastic diatribe about her homeland, making sure to paint as vivid a picture as possible. Her mood improved with each passing moment as she explained the idiosyncrasies of Holodrum and the surrounding lands.
Holodrum did not have a king or queen, instead being ruled by several lords as appointed by the temple of seasons. It appeared that the hierarchy of her land was based off their devotion to Din and her power.
Rel's homeland was sparsely populated, compared to another neighboring country. She described the temple and its placement within a valley surrounded by mountains. Rel had lived in Horon City, the capital of the entire country and it was still considered to by quite small.
"My favourite thing about Horon is how close it is to the ocean." She confessed, ending a long conversation.
"That's how you got here, isn't it?"
"Yes! We have a huge port in Holodrum. Because of the temperate climate and the temple, our land is ripe for farming. The very essence of nature lives within our borders." She explained articulately, despite the alcohol.
"That sounds amazing. I love farming." Link disclosed, his eyes closing from drunkenness and sheer exhaustion.
"I can see that." Rel began, stifling a laugh. "You also seem to love swordplay. You looked like you were having a great time at the temple."
Link leaned back further.
"I do not wish to return to service. But Zelda is strongarming me. If she doesn't want me chasing down this kid anymore, what could she want?"
"Well-" Rel started. "Dornan disclosed to me that one of the brothers is on his way to the castle as we speak. He is being escorted by a lady knight, with black hair."
Link sat bolt upright, his eyes wide open.
"Fuck!" He cried out.
"Fuck?" Rel mimicked, giving him a strange look.
"Ashei."
Rel watched him for a few moments before smiling mischievously.
"Oh. OHH!" She mocked. "Another broken heart?"
"What do you mean another broken heart? We are adults. It wasn't meant to be, end of discussion."
"That's not what Elia said." Rel grinned.
Feeling a strong sense of shame, Link covered his face with his hands as Rel continued to mock him.
"Why am I being singled out here?" Link demanded. "What about you and that pretty boy Dornan? Not everyone is promised to some fancy rake."
Rel paused before laughing again.
"You don't need to worry about that. I'm not his type."
Both drunk and fatigued, they enjoyed each other's company before eventually falling asleep.
"LINK!"
Waking suddenly to the sound of his name being shouted outside, Link struggled to his feet. He made his way to the front window of his house, opening it and searching for whoever was calling out to him. Within seconds, he identified the owner of the voice, recognizing his familiar black hair. What made the scene even more unusual was the presence of another black-haired man.
Darpa, for some reason, had brought Dornan with him.
He sat upon his own horse, who he'd named after Rel, wearing the darkest clothing Link had ever seen. His handsome features were contorted into seething scowl.
Having been awoken in such an unpleasant way, Link slammed the window shut so hard that the glass panes rattled. The loud noise was enough to wake Rel, who sat up quickly.
"Link!" Darpa shouted once more, sounding more obnoxious than the first time.
"What is that racket?" Rel yawned.
"The last two people I want to see." Link spat in disgust.
They both looked toward the front door, the sound of heavy steps drawing their attention. Without even so much as a knock, Dornan stormed in. Before either of them could speak, he launched into a verbal attack.
"Where the fuck have you been?" He hissed at Rel, his eyes boring into her. "What the fuck are you doing? Are you out of your mind?"
She remained calm, unmoved by his presence, casually buttoning her blouse.
"Right here in Ordon village. Spending time with a friend and no, I am of sound mind." She replied flatly.
"You've been missing for almost a full week. What happened?" Dornan snapped, scolding her like she was a child.
"We got caught up." Link interjected on Rel's behalf.
Dornan turned his quiet fury toward Link, his fists balled and shaking. Even now, Link knew that this wasn't a man anyone in their right mind would want to cross. His expression alone was enough to strike fear into the heart of anyone.
"Caught up? I can use my imagination. Put on a fucking shirt."
"Don't come into my house and make demands." Link bit back.
"Dornan." Rel seethed. "Show some manners."
"Show some fucking discipline, Aurelia."
"I've shown you nothing but discipline for a few years now."
After a few moments of seething, Dornan surveyed Rel's expression.
"You both look like shit." He observed. "Which one of you is going to explain?"
His eyes began darting around the room as he noticed the books strewn around the room. Kneeling, Dornan started inspecting their workspace, which was taking up most of the room by this point. He surveyed some of the notes until his jaw tightened.
Rel picked up the book nearest to her.
Darpa appeared in the doorway, peeking inside.
"Is there a problem?" Rel asked casually.
His eyes flicked toward Rel and then to Darpa, who was none the wiser.
"You. Knight. Get out now." Dornan commanded.
Link busied himself with getting dressed, feeling self-conscious and imposed upon. Darpa stood in the doorway for a few more moments throwing his arms behind his head. His face fell slightly when he saw Rel in the room, but he remained as obnoxious as ever.
"Times up Link! Welcome back Sir." Darpa joked before walking out to the sound of his own laughing.
The three of them were left alone again, the sound of the door closing echoing throughout the cabin. Rel folded her arms, her expression daring Dornan to speak.
"What is this, Aurelia?" He asked through gritted teeth.
"It's research." She taunted him. "Since you haven't been able to find a way to help me."
The tension in the room grew as Link glared at Dornan, who was more than happy to return the look. Dornan marched toward Rel, forcing himself into her personal space. Link was on guard straight away, readying himself for another confrontation.
"What did you tell him?" Dornan demanded.
"Enough." Rel responded, challenging him.
"You are a disgrace. What was it that Val called you again? The whore from Holodrum?"
Hearing those words, Link felt a surge of anger. His first instinct was wring Dornan's neck but before he could act, he was met the sound of something hard hitting skin. With the book now in both her hands, Rel was holding it with the extra tradition of blood.
In a swift motion, she'd belted Dornan across the face with it, hard enough to cause him to bleed.
"How dare you." Rel hissed at him, her voice barely audible. "How could you?"
Link was by her side in moments, grabbing Dornan by the collar of his shirt.
"You're in my house. Don't speak to my guest that way." Link fumed.
Coughing, Dornan held his hands up. His lip was bleeding as he began laughing to himself.
"Fine, I yield." Dornan coughed.
Link pushed him back slightly before letting go.
"I'm sorry." Rel whispered.
Link waved his hand and found a chair to sit in, resting his forehead in his hands. Rel turned her attention back to Dornan who was fixing his hair and ignoring his bloody lip.
"What-" Rel pushed Dornan. "Have I told you-" She slapped his shoulder. "About- ANTAGONISING PEOPLE." she shouted in his face as she unleashed another flurry of blows toward him.
Dornan held up his hands and smiled.
"There she is!" he exclaimed cheerily. "There's my friend! I knew she was in there somewhere."
Rel hit him with the book one last time, albeit, far softer than she had before.
Reaching into his pocket, Dornan produced his pipe. Rel gave him a scathing look as he tried to light it. After a few moments of watching his struggle, Rel lit the stove, offering him a light.
"At least open a window." Rel suggested. "Your father would be ashamed of you."
"At least I have a father." Dornan replied, trying to provoke her.
Rel picked up another book, giving him a threatening look.
"Alright." Dornan answered.
He made his way to a window, opening it slowly. He then took his position beside the window, making sure to exaggerate the effort he was putting in to get the smoke outside.
Taking a seat near Link, Rel gave him a sympathetic look. He was still reeling from the confrontation and was even more irritated by Dornan's presence in his home.
Giggling to himself, Dornan focused his attention back on Rel.
"Oh, my dear Aurelia. What have you done?" He chuckled. "You think you're doing a good job of hiding your emotions, but you still can't think with your head."
"I think you know full well what I have done." She snapped back. "Very little seems to get by you, or have you lost your touch?"
"One does not dabble into the ocean of time whenever they feel like it, Aurelia. You know it as much as I do."
"The only one who dabbles in their power is you."
"I have a great responsibility, for the greater good."
"A responsibility to everyone except me? That's right, isn't it? You don't give a fuck about the greater good."
"In time."
"Enough." Link commanded, breaking his self-imposed silence. "I've had enough of your arguing. Speak clearly."
"I'm speaking clearly." Dornan insisted, taking another long drag of his pipe. "One of you needs to explain to me why you've committed treason."
"You don't believe that!" Rel jeered at him.
"You are right, I don't care." He chuckled. "But I still deserve an explanation as to why you've gone and fucked me over. Though the reason seems obvious to me."
"Treason." Rel scoffed to herself.
"Well, I am technically the one who has committed treason, because I stupidly thought I could trust you."
Rel thought for a moment, an unspoken understanding between her and Link.
"We experienced a shared vision." Link started.
"I had no choice but to tell him. It was willed by them." Rel explained.
His pipe not leaving his lips, Dornan gestured for them to keep going.
"Interesting." He murmured. "Them?"
"We were summoned to the temple of time." Link continued.
"Fucking- What?" Dornan spat in disbelief. "You were summoned to the temple of time?"
"Yes." Rel confirmed.
Dornan put his pipe out straight away, using his fingers to extinguish the smoke. The heat of it didn't seem to bother him as he took a seat near the pair. Putting his feet up on another chair, Dornan leaned forward.
"Surely you would have been aware of this. Since you think you fucking know everything and you're the smartest man alive." Rel said sarcastically. "How did such a thing get passed you?"
"I see what she wants me to see." Dornan shrugged. "We can't all call upon the magic like you can."
"What are you two even arguing about this time?" Link demanded. "Magic? Ocean?"
Rel took a moment to collect herself.
"Link, do you recall when I told you about another man who had visions like you?"
"Wait-" Link began. "The other man-"
"Is me." Dornan said smugly. "I did instruct Aurelia to tell you that I wanted to speak to you. But you went and fucked off. Then she went and fucked off."
"They sent me a message, in my sleep." Link explained. "I heard a voice, that I now know belonged to Din, beckoning for us to find her."
"It appears that Link had visited that place before." Rel continued.
"It was the first time I'd spoken to Din, Nayru and Faore."
Dornan couldn't go long without his herbs, so he started smoking again as he tapped his foot a few times. It was clear that he was deep in thought, looking intently at their pile of books and notes.
"What did they say?" He asked calmly.
"They spoke of impending darkness. A dire warning. They said that Princess Zelda would be challenged." Rel said calmly.
"I was aware of that part." Dornan interrupted. "But do go on."
Rel shifted uncomfortably, trying to figure out how she would frame her next admission. It was something that shook her to her core, three words that caused fear in her heart. She chose to push it to the side, not wanting to talk just yet. Noticing this, Link decided to take over.
"I was told that no harm was to come to Rel. By Din." Link explained.
Dornan's green eyes landed on Link, giving him an almost unsettling stare. Without a word, Dornan stood up and strode towards him. With his pipe between his teeth, Dornan unceremoniously grabbed Link's wrist. Still reeling from the effects of the earlier confrontation, Link pulled his arm back.
Dornan commanded him. "Give me your hand."
Link begrudgingly obliged, returning his arm to Dornan's grip.
Just as Din had done, Dornan flipped over his hand to reveal his wrist. Dornan used his free hand to grip his pipe before blowing the smoke in Rel's direction.
"That smells awful." She complained.
"Do you want some?" He queried.
"So I can be as bright as you?"
Dornan ignored her, pulling Link's wrist even closer before dropping it suddenly.
"Din's fire." He said quietly. "Who the fuck are you?"
"Farore knows him well." Rel said with pride.
"Her mark is not to be taken lightly." Dornan murmured.
"You can see it?" Link asked, looking intently at his own arm. "I can't."
"Maybe you have a proverbial bandage over it? Like your left hand." Dornan said smugly. "What are you hiding under there?"
"Another cursed mark for this cursed place." Link mumbled.
Dornan went back to lounging in the seat, putting his feet on whatever he felt like. He had little to no regard for anyone, or anything around him. He kicked over and leant on whatever he felt like, breathing the noxious smoke into the air.
"What is all this for then?" Dornan asked Rel.
"My connection to Din… Do you recall what I said?" Rel started.
"Yes."
"It happened after I was attacked, as you know. Din all but confirmed it when we visited her. Luckily, Farore was able to stop the- this- malady from spreading."
Dornan blinked a few times before folding his arms.
"So, logically- I am looking for a cure. It's glaringly obvious that whoever attacked me also severed my connection to Din. With what magic? I don't know. Luckily, by coincidence, Link has some of the most advanced magic volumes I've ever seen." Rel explained.
"And I can't read them." Link added. "I'd actually forgotten about them years ago. They're written in a language that I cannot understand."
"To make matters worse- I don't even know who I am looking for. But after visiting Ruffilio with Link and finding out that these twin boys are somehow gifted in magic? You would be a fool to not see the connection, no matter how coincidental it appears."
"Din also said that." Link remembered.
Dornan stood up again, his restlessness obvious. He waltzed toward Link's front window, the same one that had been slammed shut earlier. He opened it with ease as he stuck his head outside.
"You! Knight!" He called out, still managing to sound elegant and regal. "An unexpected sickness has taken Aurelia. She will be fine in a few hours, so fuck off!"
Before Darpa could even answer him, Dornan slammed the window shut, cracking one of the windowpanes.
Link winced.
"Shit." Link said sadly.
"What's wrong?" Rel asked gently.
"I made that window myself. I was really proud of it."
Dornan started inspecting their notes, searching for something. He retrieved some blank sheets of paper, taking a seat at the study this time. He turned the chair to face Link and Rel before taking another drag of his pipe.
"Exact words." He instructed.
Over the course of the next few hours, Link and Rel took turns recounting the tale as Dornan took notes. They repeated themselves over and over until every last detail had been recorded meticulously. If Dornan was feeling anything, his expression didn't show it. His quill worked at an alarming speed, sparing no words as he filled page after page with notes.
The unsettling feeling from earlier returned to Rel's thoughts as she toyed with idea of keeping it secret. Forcing herself to speak, she finally opened up to him.
"Dornan." Rel said delicately, trying to calm herself. "What I am about to say is the most concerning of all. They mentioned- The flames. Sorrow, Despair and Destruction."
Dornan stopped immediately, his quill suspended mid movement. He flicked his eyes in her direction, musing over the information. Seconds passed before he wrote it down.
Confused, Link turned his attention to Dornan.
"You mentioned the flames. What is the significance of them?" He pressed further.
Dornan laid the quill down and put out his pipe.
"Aurelia." Dornan started with a sense of urgency. "Are you absolutely sure of this?"
She gave him a quick nod.
"Yes Dornan. I've not slept since we woke up."
"Woke up from what?"
"We woke up outside of the woods, drenched in water." Link added.
"And that's where the temple of time is?"
"Dornan, I don't think you should see it. It's in a disgraceful state of disrepair. Link has informed me that this is because of a man, a century ago, who was sentenced to death. After that, his entire race of people- just left. Apparently." Rel ranted.
"I'd expect no less from Hylians." Dornan scoffed.
Link felt somewhat insulted.
"You can't paint us all with the same brush." He insisted.
"Isn't that what your king did?" Dornan interjected. "To Aurelia's kin?"
"This man did cause havoc in this land. His evil was enough to scare people for a century. He is gone now."
"Enlighten me as to why these evil men keep getting into our sacred space!" Dornan challenged him. "Because the last time I checked, the three of us have never faltered. Your land's namesake, Hylia, is hopeless."
"I don't know." Link asserted. "All I know is that it was my burden to bear. And now, after everything I went through…"
"Wait." Dornan muttered, thinking hard. "I'm doing the mathematics."
"It's true Dornan." Rel added. "He's one of us."
"That's an added complication." Dornan trailed off, leaning back. "I have a theory."
"Educate us." Rel insisted.
"Very well." He started. "It's no mere coincidence that twins were born into that tribe."
"Why?" Link asked.
"I find it surprising that you don't know much about other culture's folk lore, yet we are aware of yours. Twins born of that descent are naturally blessed with skills beyond any normal magic wielder. Twin girls? Revered as being the leaders of their tribe. But Twin boys? Superstition suggests that they are doomed to evil, if your notion of evil is the black and white thinking of a child."
"So, what are these flames?" Link pressed further.
"How does one get into that sacred place with your golden relic?" Dornan asked rhetorically.
"They can either be granted an invitation by the deities, or force their way in, with darkness."
"Mhmm." Dornan hummed. "Well, there is another way. If someone were to invoke enough sorrow, destruction and despair, they could be granted to power to wield it."
"Does this ever end?" Link groaned.
"It ends when a life is offered in exchange."
Rel gave the men a grave look.
"What's the difference between me and you? The oracles and sacred mark- havers." Link queried.
"Din, Nayru and Farore agreed to let Hylia grant their power, to be called upon in a great time of need. Yet, someone fucked it up repeatedly. So, they gave us, the ones they could trust, everything that was left over. The three of us were handpicked."
"We act on behalf of them." Rel summarized.
"Wasn't I acting on behalf of Farore?" Link hesitated.
"Can you call upon her will now?" Dornan queried.
Link thought hard for a moment.
"I have no idea." He said in astonishment. He well and truly had never thought about it this way before.
"Unlike you, an oracle can call upon it, at any time."
"What kind of power do you wield?" Link asked, unsure if he wanted to hear the answer.
"Another time." Dornan finished, standing up.
He stuffed the vast number of parchments into his cloak, somehow concealing it from view. Smoothing his hair, he headed toward the door.
"What do we do now?" Rel asked with a shaky tone.
"We stop those fucking flames from being lit and I wait for more guidance. We need to get that curse dealt with before we proceed. I will not have my most powerful ally stunted." Dornan paused. "If you speak of this to anyone else, I will have you chained up in my basement."
"No, you won't." Link shot at him.
Their hours long ordeal was interrupted by the sound of knocking on the front door. Darpa let himself in without a moments notice. He stood in the doorway, giving Link an amused smirk.
Forgetting that almost half the week had disappeared in the blink of an eye, the realization that his time was almost up dawned on Link. He'd anticipated this event, but was no less despaired with how quickly it arrived. His train of thought was interrupted by an abrupt slap on his shoulder. Darpa held up a sword.
"A welcome gift, from your childhood friends." Darpa chirped.
"I still technically have one day left." Link groaned.
Unsheathing the sword, Link discovered that it was a standard royal issue. He almost felt insulted, given that it was common knowledge how much he hated those swords. It's not that it wasn't a finely made weapon, it just didn't suit him.
"I'm not wearing your stupid colours. Or the armor. I won't be using this sword because I'm not a knight." Link stated matter-of-factly.
"You offend us Link!" Darpa cried out obnoxiously. "I will never recover from your insults. It almost pains me to know how nice your new living arrangement is. Pack your things, you'll be gone for the foreseeable future."
"What about my farm?"
"Rusl can do it. Or someone else. I don't know."
"I'll ask Elia." Rel interrupted. "I have to return her clothes anyway."
"One of the locals now, are we?" Dornan spat at her. "You sure love a quaint little village don't you Aurelia?"
"It's pronounced Ilia." Darpa laughed.
Dornan turned his unto Darpa, launching another verbal barrage.
"She has an accent you fuck knuckle." Dornan hissed with disdain. "Use your pointy ears to listen next time."
"Wait, that's your name?" Darpa asked, confused.
"You already knew that." Link said flatly. "You found out at Telma's."
"I was really drunk." Darpa admitted.
Before either of them could really process what was happening, Link and Rel were packed and leaving. It had warmed up during the day, giving way to a pleasant temperature. Link busied himself with saddling up Epona, trying to ignore Dornan's presence. Despite the last few hours, he still wasn't fond of the man, especially after he'd provoked both of them into uncontrollable rage.
As Rel made it down the ladder, Dornan fished around in one of his many cloak pockets. He produced a small green sprig, handing it to Rel, who smelt it.
"Mint. Not for smoking." He informed her.
Rel bit into the herb right away.
"What's the mint for?" Link asked after noticing Rel was chewing something.
"For her stomach. She get's ill on the road." Dornan said nonchalantly.
Link narrowed his eyes and said nothing.
"Wait!" Rel called out before climbing back into the house.
She emerged later with a handful of books, Dornan giving her a quizzical look. Underneath them was the borrowed clothing. Link offered to take the books off her and she agreed. Dornan and Darpa rode off ahead, waiting near the village entrance, leaving the pair alone once more.
"I understand now." Link disclosed quietly. "Why you have such a deep appreciation for nature."
Rel smiled. Her first real one in days.
"Now you know. Admittedly, Autumn is my favourite season. I know I'm playing favorites, but I particularly look forward to equinox."
"Equinox?"
"Hylians."
Rel stopped for a moment.
"I want to make sure your beautiful garden is looked after in your absence. I will speak to Elia about it. These plants are useful to both of us."
Rel ran off with the clothes, leaving Link to catch up to the men. Dornan was sitting atop his own red mare, Aurelia, admiring Epona from afar.
"She is absolutely stunning." Dornan gushed. "I saw her at the tavern."
Link couldn't believe his ears. It was the first sentence that he'd ever heard come out of Dornan's mouth that wasn't laced with sarcasm and swearing. Deciding that he was too tired to keep giving him the cold shoulder, Link relented and lent into the conversation.
"She isn't a mere farm horse." Link explained. "Epona comes from a long line of war horses."
"I can see that." Dornan smiled. "Good pedigree, a lot of hands. Her mane is majestic. Epona, you are truly beautiful."
Rel emerged from the village, her cloak still missing.
"Where the fuck is your cloak?" Dornan barked in his usual tone, breaking the illusion from moments earlier.
"It's gone." Rel said quietly.
"You'll have to hitch a ride with one of us, Rel." Darpa joked. "Luckily I have enough space on my saddle."
Rel gave Link an awkward look.
"I'll ride with Dornan." She said quickly.
"You will? I thought- Never mind." Dornan mumbled, his pipe now between his teeth.
She was already on the back of the saddle before anyone could say anything and finally, the group were off.