Knowing that he couldn't put it off any longer, Link dressed himself in his formal wear at the break of dawn. The weight of the guilt wore him down, the burden becoming too heavy as his conscience became full. Link rehearsed in his mind what he would say to Zelda and considered how he could explain his absence.
It was still relatively dark as Link opened the door to his room. He secretly hoped that Rel would have joined him in the evening but was able to see why she didn't. Her absence left him feeling empty as he wished for her to be by his side.
Dornan was fast asleep on his favourite seat in front of the fire. He looked quite cozy, with a blanket draped over his body and book opened on his chest. Link couldn't really figure out why he insisted on sleeping over that night but trusted that he had a reason. He also found himself considering if Dornan was onto their case, given how observant he was. It was far more unlikely that Dornan hadn't taken notice if he really thought about it.
As he stepped lightly toward the exit, Link heard the sound of Rel's door opening. As expected, he saw a hazel eye staring at him through the crack. Link couldn't stop himself from smiling as Rel gave him a tender look.
She gestured for Link to stay quiet before pointing to Dornan. Link returned the motion with a shrug. Rel put her fingers on her chin, signifying that she was thinking. After a few moments, she put her hand over her heart, slowly pushing her door closed.
Link gave her a small wave as he left in silence, trying to step as lightly as possible given that he was wearing heavy, decorative armor.
Outside was even more unbearable in the presence of metal armor. Link was already shivering by the time he reached the town fountain, which had completely frozen over. On a better day, it may even be considered beautiful as it reflected the early morning sunlight. His pleasant thoughts were short lived as he persevered through the freezing wind.
What would usually be a bustling market district was almost completely empty, the townspeople being stuck inside and ill equipped for the weather. Only a few brave vendors were present, wearing layer upon layer of clothing as they shivered in the morning frost. Their stalls seemed particularly empty, given the absence of customers. Some vendors had all but given up as their supplies dwindled in the poor seasonal change.
The bridge to the castle was almost indistinguishable from the surrounds, with several guards trying to shovel snow into the moat. The water still flowed resiliently, acting as the final defense between the castle and the season.
Luckily, Link spotted a couple of familiar faces as he approached the gate.
Both Liom and Darpa were talking to one another. They seemed to be in a tense, hushed conversation. Their expressions remained solemn as Link approached them. Looking up, Darpa was the first to notice him.
His face changed to that of shock.
"Where the fuck have you been?" Darpa shouted. "We've spent three days trying to chase you down."
Link frowned at the tone of his voice.
"Away." He shot back.
"Well fucking obviously!"
"Watch your tone."
With a sigh of relief, Liom put his hands on his hips. He stepped between Link and Darpa, knowing that nothing positive ever happened when they were both fired up and their tempers were flaring. He removed his hands from hips, signaling that his friends needed to be quiet.
"Zelda will be relieved." Liom reassured him. "There's no point in arguing."
Both Link and Darpa knew that he was right, refusing to let themselves give into the temptation to have a quarrel.
"Come on." Darpa huffed, gesturing for Link to follow him.
Charging off ahead, Darpa led the way. Liom stayed by Link's side.
"Where were you?" he asked concernedly.
"Do I have to receive the third degree from you too?" Link sighed.
"No." Liom paused. "I was worried. Both you and Rel didn't show up."
Link's heart raced at the sound of her name. "And for that I apologize."
"Did something happen with Rel?"
"The seasons- thing." Link stammered. "She needs to go to- places."
Liom chuckled. "You're a bad liar."
"Both of you, shut up!" Darpa barked at them.
They arrived at the castle gardens, which were covered in a blanket of white frost. Two guards eyed them aggressively, holding their spears at the ready. Even after being away, it was obvious to Link that this wasn't usual. He wondered why they would be so combative to men who outranked them.
They found the princess wearing a somber expression. Zelda was accompanied by Ashei, who stood to one side, looking as combative as the guards who they'd passed. She sat elegantly on a stone bench, draped in an impressive blue cape, bearing the sigil of the royal family. Her gaze remained distant and lacking in focus, her lips pressed tightly together.
Although she was trying to hide it, Zelda was deeply worried. Dornan's latest message was that of dire circumstances. Not only was her father going to perish soon, but she was also facing an uprising and from what she was told, it was unavoidable and even crucial in the coming age.
Her expression remained stern as the men approached her.
Ashei was the first to see them advance, signaling for Zelda to look up.
Zelda lifted her head, her eyes darting around as if she was looking for something. Realizing that Link was among them, she sighed quietly. With a soft smile, she greeted them.
"Princess." Link said, giving her a bow.
"This is a relief." Zelda said gently, standing up from the bench. "You had me worried sick."
"I hope he has a good explanation." Ashei sneered.
"Yeah Link, tell us, what's your explanation?" Darpa added. "Usually I would think that Ashei is too harsh to you, but I agree with her this time."
"Rel needed his assistance. Regarding the season." Liom announced.
The rest of the group looked to Link, waiting for his answer.
"Liom is correct." He spoke slowly, trying to think ahead. "Rel needed an escort."
Zelda made a gesture, suggesting that the group keep their voices down. With her usual posture, she placed her hands in front of her, folding them tightly. Hey eyes, however, told a different story. They continued to search their surroundings, looking for something that only she could see.
"Why didn't she tell us?" Ashei asked Link. "Surely this is something you should tell your allies?"
"Urgent is urgent." Link replied.
"Dornan did say that she needed some time off."
"He was right." Link paused. "Rel was sorry that she missed his- announcement."
Zelda's expression shifted to one of solemness, her worry evident.
"You still worry?" Link asked her.
"Yes." Zelda sighed. "His message only confirmed what I suspected."
"And what was it?"
"I will speak to you outside the grounds of the castle. Until then, I must be with my father."
With Dornan still fast asleep, Rel crept past his resting place, letting herself into the abandoned shop front downstairs. Her plan was to keep the hot water flowing for as long as possible, hopefully preventing the pipes from freezing over. She was relieved to see that the water was still able to flow and thanked her stars that she even had the privilege. It wasn't lost on her that most of the people around town didn't have any flowing water, let alone a way to heat it.
She hadn't bathed properly since she left, and she desperately needed a space to proverbially wash away her shame and worries.
With a bathtub full of water and Dornan still asleep, Rel undressed herself, lowering herself into the warm water. She relaxed in the heat, letting herself sink until she was mostly submerged. With the only soap she could find, Rel began scrubbing her hair, something that she had neglected for several days.
"I'm watching you." A sultry voice echoed.
Recognizing the voice, Rel rolled her eyes, lazily covering her breasts with her hands.
With her hair full of soap suds, now dripping down to her face, Rel glared at Dornan. He was standing in the doorway, leaning casually against the frame. He smirked at her, his pipe between his teeth. Her vision became blurry as the soap burned her eyes, slowly dripping lower.
"Where is Fienna?" Rel asked calmly. "Maybe you should be watching her."
"Oh no, Aurelia. You are far more interesting."
Rel dipped her head under the water, washing the remaining soap from her face and hair. She reemerged, slicking her hair off her face.
"I'd appreciate it if you would fuck off." She said flatly. "I need to relax."
With a devilish grin, Dornan crouched down, placing his hands on the rim of the rub. He looked at her like a cat that had found a pale of milk, his fingers gripping tightly. He wore a smug expression, giving further way to him looking like a cat.
Rel's hands shot back to her chest.
"Why are you covering up?" Dornan probed. "It's not something I haven't see before."
She shrugged. Leaning closer, Dornan squinted.
"What's that mark on your neck?" He smirked.
"It's where I was whipped."
"Was it?" He got even closer. "It, almost looks like… a bite mark."
With impressive speed, Rel's hand snapped to her neck. Her face flushed as she tried to cover her skin. With her free hand, she pulled her hair down, trying to cover it.
"Can you just fuck off?" She flustered.
"Not until you tell me what happened."
"And I'm telling you, nothing happened!"
With impressive range, Rel splashed an armful of water into Dornan's face. His pipe went out with a light hiss as he wiped the water out of his eyes. Without giving him time to react, she did it again, soaking his shirt and hair. With a look of complete and utter offense, Dornan glowered at her.
"I just packed that!" He shrieked at her. "That was fresh!"
Without warning, he returned the water splash with his own. He crouched over the rim of the tub, dipping his hands deep into the water. With a scorned scowl, Rel started splashing water back. Dornan continued his onslaught, seemingly splashing half of the remaining water into her face.
The bath was now mostly empty, Rel's cocoon of warmth all but forgotten. The chill was overpowering, already causing a shiver in such a short amount of time.
"Great, now I'm cold again." She huffed.
Dornan wrung the bath water out of his shirt, slicking his hair off his face. He looked at Rel, pointing to her collarbone.
"You have another one, there." He smiled.
The corner of Rel's mouth twitched. She turned away again, trying to hide her smile. Dornan folded his arms as he sat at the edge of the tub, tapping his foot.
"Did you finally fuck him?"
"Dornan!" She shrilled.
"Did you?"
Trying to use her hand to hide her smile, Rel blushed.
"So, what if I did?"
"Did you really?" Dornan gushed, his tone backflipping. He went from speaking in his usual stilted indifference to that of an excited friend. "How many times?"
"I'm not answering that!" Rel flushed, covering her face with her hands.
"Twice?"
She shook her head.
"More?"
She nodded, refusing to let her hands fall from her face.
"Ha!" Dornan chuckled. "Good girl!"
"Don't tell anyone!" She pleaded. "I'm embarrassed enough as is. I've never come back after- I've left- before."
"That's fair." Dornan smirked. "I wouldn't want people to know that I ran away like a child over a boy."
She curled her arms around her legs, rolling into a ball.
"Don't remind me."
Dornan raised an eyebrow. "And what prompted such an act of stupidity?"
"Your friend Shad told me he was in love with another woman."
"And you believed him?"
"After what happened with Val?"
Dornan winced. "That's also fair."
Rel finally mustered the courage to look at him. She found comfort in Dornan's green eyes, the first time she'd done so in years.
"I don't need him to be reprimanded either."
"I doubt he cares." Dornan shrugged.
Leaning forward, Rel turned the tap, letting the warm water flow. She went quiet again, reeling from her confession.
"Oh no you don't!" Dornan encouraged her. "Tell me all the details. Now."
"He did some- unexpected things."
"Such as?"
Using her eyes, Rel gestured downward.
A knowing smirk crossed Dornan's face. "Did he?"
She nodded vigorously.
"Good for him." Dornan's brow furrowed. "Were you careful?"
"No." Rel hesitated.
Standing up, Dornan peeled off his wet shirt. "I suppose I will get changed and take you to that herb shop."
"Wait!" Rel burst out. "What do you mean by 'finally'?"
With a lifted eyebrow, Dornan gave her an unimpressed look.
"Really?" He scoffed. "Because I have been watching you visually devour each other since the day I arrived."
"I wasn't that obvious, was I?"
"You were. I'm not stupid either. Besides, he told me."
"He told you?" She faltered. "When?"
"Hmmmm-" Dornan hummed sarcastically. "I'm not sure if I remember clearly. It was after you got locked up… But was it before or after the fist fight with the other knight?"
"Fist fight?"
"Oh, that's right!" Dornan feigned shock. "It was after the fist fight."
"What fist fight?" She said with a hitch pitch.
"The morning after you went up to the castle, they got into a scuffle over at the tavern. It was delightful."
Rel thought for a moment. "The black eye."
"He was right though!" Dornan cackled. "The other one lost a tooth."
"I thought that if anyone was going to lose a tooth, it was probably going to be you." Rel observed. "Except, you seem to be getting along."
"Is that a bad thing? Are you worried I'm going to steal him away?"
She hid her face again. "What changed?"
"I figured out his secret, I thought it was fair to disclose my own." Dornan shrugged.
"So, he knows?"
"Indeed."
"Thank the heavens because I couldn't keep up that farce any longer."
"Does this mean I finally get the bed?" Dornan grinned.
"I suppose so-"
"Fienna doesn't mind sharing with me either!"
"Where even is she?"
"Combing through Shad's collection and anywhere else where we may find a solution for your situation, as I instructed her to."
Dornan turned to leave.
"Get dressed. We don't want an accident."
Liom insisted on escorting Link back into town, which he appreciated, given the gravity of the situation. Link hadn't truly prepared himself for the guilt and he reeled over what Zelda had said. She clearly didn't trust anyone up at the castle, her only friends being her inner circle.
Even if he truly felt remorseful about abandoning Zelda in a time of need, his pursuit of Rel was a priority. She was key to whatever was unfolding and keeping her safe would ensure everyone was kept safe. That wasn't even with the added feelings that he held for her. It had been reaffirmed to him for months that she and the other oracles were the make or break of what was unfolding. She was the only one who could stop the snow as well.
With a sly curve of his lips, Liom watched Link as they walked.
After a while, Link couldn't stand the feeling of being stared at any longer.
"What?" He snapped at Liom.
"What do you mean, what?" Liom smirked back.
"What's the staring for?"
"You didn't thank me for covering you back there."
Feeling his face flush, Link started walking faster.
"You can't get away from me that easily!" Liom chuckled, following him.
"Fine! Thank you." Link shot back.
"You have the worst temper."
"I've been working on it!"
"Poorly."
They reached the town fountain which had a few stragglers sitting around it. The marketplace was busier than earlier, which could only be a good sign. The townspeople were still trying to make the most of the situation despite the setbacks.
Stepping in front of his friend, Liom folded his arms. He lifted his eyebrow dramatically, waiting for Link to speak.
"I already said thanks." Link shrugged.
"You're a bad liar, Link." Liom smirked. "You didn't tell me what happened with Rel."
"Nothing happened."
"Liar!"
At that moment, Link could have sworn that he saw a flash of auburn out of the corner of his eye. He stopped, looking diagonally across the surface of the fountain.
Sure enough, it was Rel, being trailed by Dornan. Unusually, she had her hair tied back and was wearing her neutral-coloured cloak. She stopped, rolling her eyes as Dornan caught up to her. Folding her arms, Rel looked around, shaking her head as Dornan took his time doing whatever it was that he was doing.
Her eyes landed on Link, staring at her across the fountain.
Liom threw his arm around Link, pointing him in Rel's direction.
"Is that her? Is that Rel?" he asked sarcastically, making a performance out of the situation. "Because it looks like Rel."
Having caught up to her, Dornan smirked as he joined Rel in looking across the fountain. He gave the men a wave.
Catching Link's gaze, Rel blushed deeply. She gave him a quick nod before leading Dornan down a laneway as he cackled loudly.
Liom burst out laughing. "Nothing happened?" Really?"
With his face burning, Link turned to Liom.
"Can we at least go somewhere private?"
"I have to take you to yet another secret location regardless." Liom sighed.
"Is it Telma's?"
Rel and Dornan reached the apothecary as he tried to hold in his own amusement. The doorbell chimed quietly as they entered.
Looking around, Rel immediately started looking for ingredients. With it being his first time in the apothecary, Dornan started eyeing and touching everything in his path. He ran his fingers over glass jars, bottles and ingredients, searching for something that only he knew.
"Rel?"
Both Dornan and Rel looked in the direction of the voice that had just addressed her.
Standing behind the counter was Danaya, with a concerned look on her face.
"Danaya?" Rel gasped.
"You got out!" Danaya gushed as she met Rel's side. "I didn't wait around long enough to find out!"
They embraced as Dornan watched the interaction with indifference. He leaned against the counter, rolling his eyes at the display of affection.
Noticing this, Danaya eyed him curiously.
"I wouldn't have chosen this one over the blond." She whispered to Rel.
"I didn't." Rel blushed. "He's- not a normal man."
"Can I smoke anything in here?" Dornan asked the blond woman who stayed behind the counter. "Something that will… blow my mind."
"I only have the best." The blond woman, Agatha replied.
With Dornan distracted, Rel lowered her voice.
"I need certain herbs." She whispered.
"What for?" Danaya queried.
"An accident."
"Ah-" Danaya paused. "The blond man?"
Rel nodded calmly. Without another word, Danaya led Rel around the apothecary, carefully choosing herbs and measuring them. As she eyed the ingredients, Rel couldn't help but notice the low stock of certain herbs. With a furrowed brow, she turned to Danaya.
"The stock is running low." She observed.
"The weather." Danaya mused. "Hopefully this anomaly ends soon."
The shame was overwhelming for Rel. With downcast eyes, she tried to focus on a spot on the floor.
"Chin up, Rel. It is not your fault. They treated you so poorly." Danaya continued. "I know you can control this."
"Thank you." Rel paused. "I am trying. I really am. We will fix this, I promise."
"I know you will."
The chime of the bell distracted everyone who was present. All four of them looked in the direction of the door.
Surprisingly, a familiar face walked through the doorway. A mane of wavy ashen hair shook vigorously as flecks of snow landed on the wooden floor. With her exceedingly pale eyes, none of tem could tell where Fienna was looking.
Fienna smiled as she silently greeted her friends.
"Rel!" She said happily. "I was looking for you!"
"You were?" Rel blinked.
"Yes. I have an idea."
With a sense of purpose, Fienna waltzed up to the counter. She interrupted the conversation between Agatha and Dornan.
"Hello!" She chirped to Agatha.
"Fancy meeting you here." Dornan drawled.
"It's good to see you, my friend." Fienna smiled. "I have an idea." She turned to Agatha. "Do you have any incense?"
Agatha thought for a few moments.
"It depends on the scent. What are you using it for?"
"Extracting a shadow curse from Rel." She answered without hesitation.
Unsure if she'd heard right, Agatha frowned.
"A what?"
As Fienna opened her mouth to speak again, Dornan placed his hand over it.
"Don't mind my friend here." He smiled. "She's just talking nonsense."
With a panicked look to her eyes, Danaya stared at Rel.
"Is this true?" She whispered.
Rel replied with a gentle nod.
"We are creating our own resistance." Danaya whispered to Rel. "The Hylians, they don't believe in our divinity anymore. But we may be able help you."
"A resistance?" Rel replied.
"Yes." Danaya paused, looking around. "That young man at the castle- Word is he wants to lead us to our former glory. I cannot say I agree with what is being proposed. What I do care about is looking after our women."
A sense of unease washed over Rel.
"I will keep it in mind." She murmured.
With her hands full of ingredients, Rel joined Dornan and Fienna at the counter. She placed everything in a neat pile as Agatha busied herself, wrapping small bundles of herbs for Dornan and Fienna.
As they left the warmth of the shop and walked into the wind chill, Dornan scoffed.
"You are very bad at keeping secrets." He sighed to Fienna. "Given that your job is to keep secrets."
"I'm sorry." She smiled.
"Oh, who could stay mad at you." Dornan grinned back, petting her on the head. "You are just so adorable!"
The group reached Rel's home, rushing up the stairs to get out of the icy wind gusts.
Before anyone knew what she was doing, Fienna started moving furniture, creating a space on the floor. Dornan and Rel simply watched her, having no idea what she was planning. Using her fingers, Fienna seemed to be taking measurements, silently musing as she continued.
After a while, she grabbed Rel by the hand, leading her into the center of the space she'd just created.
"Sit here, Rel." Fienna instructed.
She did just that, crossing her legs as she waited for Fienna to give her an explanation.
"Dornan, please hand me the incense."
He rifled around in the paper bag that they were given, handing Fienna one of the small bundles. She eyed it carefully before dipping it into the embers of the fireplace. With a careful hand, she cupped it close, letting the smoke gather in her fingers.
As Dornan watched, he packed his pipe with the latest herb that he purchased.
"That smells nice." He observed as Fienna danced her fingers in the air.
"It does." She agreed.
"What's it for?" He continued.
Flicking her eyes toward Dornan, Fienna tried to catch his attention.
"I'm confused." Rel added.
"As am I." Dornan drawled. "What is this purpose of this task?"
"A test."
Fienna waved the incense in front of Rel's face, causing her to cough.
"Rel, I want you to relax." Fienna soothed. "Let yourself fall into the void."
"The void?" Rel blinked.
"Yes." Fienna continued. "Close your eyes and let the blackness envelop you."
With a lifted eyebrow, Dornan watched the interaction with complete and utter confusion. Even he was speechless at this strange ritual happening in front of him.
Following instruction, Rel closed her eyes. As soon as they were closed, hundreds of thoughts swirled through her mind. She struggled to settle herself as Fienna moved around her.
With delicate fingers, Fienna touched Rel's forehead.
"Forgive me for this, Rel." Fienna said.
Everything went black. Rel fell to the side, Dornan rushing to help.
"What the fuck just happened?" Dornan asked flatly.
"She wouldn't have let me try this if I outright asked." Fienna shrugged, her fingers still planted on Rel's forehead.
"That's true." Dornan agreed. "What are you doing anyway?"
"Seeing if Din is still in there."
A sea of stars dissipated as Rel opened her eyes. The sight of its grandeur and vastness was enough to bring a sense of serenity to her troubled mind. Her gaze stared into the deep, unending blackness of the night sky, the stars guiding her way.
She lifted her hands, her skin illuminating in this void. Her fingers gave off an ethereal glow as she waved them in front of her face.
After her eyes came into focus, Rel looked around. She didn't know where she was, but this place gave her a strong sense of familiarity and warmth, despite the empty vastness unfolding in front of her.
She searched the space for anything, any sign that she wasn't alone. In the center of the room was a shallow pool of water. Its surface rippled as a single drop dripped from the blackness. Like her own skin, the water glowed softly, acting as a beacon.
Around the shore of this pool of water was a small animal.
An ethereal rabbit was drinking from the water, sitting calmly as Rel approached. It hopped toward her, nestling its face in her hand. The moment its gentle face touched her skin, Rel felt a sense of warmth, like the gentle breeze on a spring morning.
"The spirit of spring." She murmured.
It hopped away, leaving a trail of stars in its wake.
Feeling compelled to follow, Rel allowed the spring rabbit to lead the way. It stopped every now and then, waiting for her to catch up. After what seemed like an eternity, the rabbit stopped. It looked at her one last time before leaping forward.
A patch of grass appeared, glowing as the rabbit did. It looked so soft and inviting, Rel wanting to crouch down and touch it. She refrained, her curiosity of her new animal friend taking precedence. The light followed it as it stopped.
Another animal appeared before her. This time, a grand stag. She would have expected it to stand tall, but it was resting in the patch of grass, its breath heavy as it rested on its hoofs. As she stepped toward it, the stag lifted its head. Its breathing remained labored as it watched her approach.
"Winter." She said in greeting, recognizing it right away.
Behind it stood a fox, stunning in its grace. Rel crouched down as the fox bounded toward her, resting its head on her thighs. It swished its tail happily, standing on its hind legs to get closer to her face.
"Autumn." She smiled. "My favourite."
The last to arrive was summer. A sleek falcon landed beside the stag, its fierce gaze landing on Rel.
It didn't speak, but Rel could still hear its voice echoing in her mind.
"I'm sorry." She explained. "That it's taken me so long- I haven't been able to reach you."
The fox swished its tail.
The animals and Rel turned their attention to the stag. Rel made her way to its side, touching it gently through the labored breathing. It recoiled at her touch, jerking its head away.
"The curse." Rel muttered.
She held out her palm, choosing to wait for the stag to make a move. The fox, on its hind legs, gently rested on her shoulder.
"I know." She pleaded. "I know I didn't greet him. Please forgive me."
Remembering what she'd done in Ordon, Rel took a deep breath. As she concentrated, she could see the dark blue and black slivers of energy emanating off the stag's fur.
"It infects me too." She explained.
As she breathed deeply, Rel let herself slip away. She remembered what it felt like to return the essence to the plants in Ordon and the joy that it brought her. She thought about the feelings she was harboring for a certain man, amongst other things that made her happy. The veins of light crept slowly through the stag's fur, its breathing becoming slower and calmer as each moment passed.
The exhaustion washed over Rel as she struggled to stay upright.
Moments later, she was swaying.
Suddenly the stag stood, rising slowly as it regained its balance.
It stepped toward her, nudging her with its head.
"Are you happy now?" She asked gently. "Please tell me you are alright."
She reached her hand forward, touching its face. It breathed against her hand, willing her to recover.
"I remember." She mused, closing her eyes. "I would never forget."
They looked at her expectantly.
"I know. The flame of destruction is lit."
The fox nudged her hand.
"I remember. The last time we were upon these shores. And I remember why we left."
Rel opened her eyes slowly, the faces of Dornan and Fienna coming into focus. They looked down on her with morbid curiosity, waiting for her to speak.
"My head…" Rel murmured.
Dornan wedged his arm underneath her back, slowly lifting her.
"We have to- Maintain order." Rel breathed. "The seasons- Winter should be back to normal."
Fienna's face lit up. "Was I right?"
"Right about what?"
"Is Din still in there?"
The memories flooded back into Rel's mind. The spirits of the seasons, the void, Din's memories.
"Yes!" Rel smiled. "She is."
Dornan leaned back and sighed. "I knew she was, it's just- good to have confirmation."
For the second time, Rel could feel her senses elevate. She could hear every lick of the flame, every breath and every heartbeat.
"Did you say winter is back to normal?" Dornan asked.
"Hopefully."
"Well, that solves one of our problems."
Fienna thought carefully for a moment. "Did you see anything, anything at all that could suggest how we lift this curse? What did you see?"
"I only saw the spirits, in black void."
Fienna's brow furrowed. "That isn't right. You should have seen more than that."
"I know." Rel paused. "That would be the byproduct of the curse."
"Exactly!"
"Do we know anything about lifting this curse?" Dornan interrupted.
"Shadow. Light." Fienna shrugged.
"Care to explain?"
"It makes sense to me!"
Across the way, Zelda's inner circle was huddled around in Telma's basement. The friend time that Link and Liom had planned on undertaking was cut short with the arrival of the entire group.
Zelda had arrived by the secret entrance. Auru arriving with her, coming out from his hiding place.
The discussion was as monotonous as the last one that Link had attended, and he admittedly wasn't surprised. He had a lot of experience sitting in on counsel meetings and had developed a habit of occupying his mind elsewhere. His mind drifted that of Rel, savoring the short amount of time they'd enjoyed together. The same thoughts became an overwhelming distraction. He'd been with other women before, but none had caused him to behave and think like this, even the one he thought he was the most in love with.
"At least pretend you're listening." Liom whispered in his ear.
His voice brought Link back to reality.
The talk remained on that of allies.
"Where could we flee to?" Ashei asked Zelda.
"We have considered this." Auru paused. "I do not doubt that Ruffilio would host us."
"Ruffilio is three days ride." Darpa informed them. "If push came to shove, we might no even make it out there."
"What about the eastern estate?" Zelda suggested.
Link shifted uncomfortably in his seat.
"I heard that they were visited by a couple of our people." Ashei laughed.
"We did what Auru asked." Link shrugged.
"It is true, they did." Auru shifted. "And I still haven't held up my end of the bargain."
"Do you have any leads?"
"We are coming closer day by day."
"And where is she? And the other oracles?" Ashei queried. "Are they not our allies?"
"After the accusations that you suggested?" Link rebutted.
"Now would be a good time to prove me wrong."
"They already did."
Zelda took a deep breath.
"Dornan has helped me more times over than I could ever repay him for." She paused, collecting her thoughts. "They are convening amongst themselves. Helping Aurelia with this- shadow, is utmost priority."
"Which I have been doing." Link added.
"What about the death of our king? The troops who are going to march on us? One of them-" Ashei pointed in the direction of the castle. "Is going to lead them and remove Zelda from the throne!"
Sitting forward, Link realized what he'd missed when he was away.
"Is that not important to you Link?" Ashei continued, her voice trembling.
"Did Dornan also tell you that Rel was cursed by one of them?" Answered Link. "It's the ward, the one that you brought to the castle."
"I did my duty!"
"As did I!" Link shot back. "And now, one of them is using forbidden magic and has cursed one of the most powerful allies this kingdom could ever have."
"And how do you know that?"
"Research." Link shrugged.
"Link is correct." Auru interjected.
Listening to the conversation, Zelda watched them quietly.
"We need to do something about this ward. He is now supposedly acting on behalf of the king, speaking for him. My ears within the walls suggest that he will be the vice head of counsel by the time the king perishes."
"Really?"
"The documents are ready to be signed."
"So, let's cut off Gresham's head." Link hissed. "What's stopping us from cutting through these traitors?"
"I like how he thinks." Darpa smiled.
"For every one of us who is loyal to Zelda, there are twenty men who will cut you down." Auru murmured. "We do not have the loyalty left."
"Why?" Link snapped.
"They've been promised a new age." Zelda replied calmly. "A new age where they will be rewarded."
"How did this happen?" Link fumed. "What has happened since I left service?"
"An insidious poison… Because-" Auru began.
"I surrendered." Zelda finished.
Link's mind jumped to the conversation he had with Rel, when she described how much she admired Din.
"Rel." Link started.
"Do you understand why I am worried?" Zelda asked Link.
"Yes."
"So, convince her otherwise." Ashei scoffed at Link.
"What makes you think I can do that?"
"She is your lover is she not?"
"I'm not answering that." Link snapped back. "There seems to be more important things to worry about."
"Pick a side."
"Pick what side Ashei? The counsel has turned on Zelda and I am here. Even without the viciousness of these men, we still have the issue of the fissures- Shadow that is flowing into the essence of nature as we speak. Even if those men were to all leave tomorrow, we still need to rectify the destruction of this land."
"The fissures can only be closed by Aurelia, the Lady Oracle." Auru added. "Which brings us back in a full circle. We cannot fix one without the other."
"I recall someone mentioning flames?" Liom murmured.
"There are three flames, as there are three pieces of the sacred power." Auru explained. "Each fame representing the antithesis of its corresponding power."
"Huh?" Darpa groaned.
"Power, Wisdom, Courage." Auru began. "Sorrow, Destruction and Despair."
"Really?" Link asked, genuinely surprised. "Who told you that?"
"Fienna." Zelda smiled. "She is incredible."
"Whoever cursed Aurelia had instigated- whether they intended to or not- the flame of destruction." Auru explained.
"How?" Darpa spoke.
"The Lady Fienna will explain it better than I."
"Where is this shadow coming from?"
"The grounds on which the castle stands are an ancient shrine. It is the source of shadow."
"Is that just not the twilight?" Ashei asked.
"No." Auru paused. "This is why they are congregating at the castle. It is as close to the source as anyone could possibly be. If it were based at, say Ruffilio, they would be out there."
"So, clearly Dornan and Fienna are useful to our cause." Ashei glanced at Link.
"As is Aurelia." Zelda frowned.
"But if she is- cursed, would it not be better to send her home?"
"And then the fissures will spread." Auru sighed.
"This wouldn't be happening if Rel hadn't been attacked on the day of her arrival." Liom observed.
"I know." Zelda affirmed.
"What if we just… eliminated the twins?" Darpa asked. "Surely everything would rectify?"
"The Gerudo ancestors are indifferently loyal at best." Zelda explained. "We are fools to believe that they wouldn't fight back or choose sides."
"Clearly Aurelia is one of them." Ashei observed.
"What are you implying?" Link snapped.
"I've already spoken to you about this."
"A faction of Gerudo along with a counsel who are against me- We are headed for disaster."
"Has Dornan told you how to prevent this?"
"It is inevitable." Auru sighed.
"I need unwavering loyalty from the oracles." Zelda confessed. "Guard them at all hours."
"That will be enough for the evening." Auru added.
"May I have a word with you, Link?" Zelda asked.
He waited as the rest of the group disbanded.
"What is it?"
"Aurelia. The oracles."
"I will talk to them."
"Thank you." Zelda relaxed. "I heard that you brought her back."
"Who else would have? She wanted to stop the snowstorm."
They fell silent.
"You worry?" Link asked her gently. "Zelda, what is your plan? What are we going to do?"
"You know me so well." She smiled. "I plan on righting the wrongs of the past."
"Why bring the oracles here?"
"They cherish the sacred realm as much as I. They understand."
Stepping toward her, Link extended an arm, touching her shoulder. She held her hand over his for a short while.
"I know it is coming- But I am not ready." Zelda trembled.
"Your father?"
"They won't let me see him."
"You've more right than anyone?"
"Gresham and his understudy… I am not an invalid. I know that Ezra will be the one to replace me."
"Each moment at a time. I will speak to them."
Stepping back, Zelda fastened her fine cloak.
"I will see you soon."
After what felt like a never-ending day, Link finally trudged back to his home across the way. He could already smell the strong scent of herbs before he even reached his floor. Behind the door came the sound of low voices.
Gently turning the knob, Link peeked his head through the door.
He was met with an unusual sight.
Rel was lying in the center of the oak table, her head dangling over the side. She spotted Link right away, her eyes locking with his.
Fienna was standing on one of the chairs, examining Rel from far away. She hovered over her, her fingers planted firmly on her chin as she looked at Rel's body.
Holding an incense bundle, Dornan stood off to the side, waving it slowly around them.
"What if I tried… this?" Fienna asked.
A faint glow emitted from her fingers as she stood over Rel. Moments later, Rel recoiled.
"That isn't right." Fienna murmured.
Dornan blew out the incense before pinching the bridge of his nose. He took a seat at the end of the table.
"Nothing has worked." He sighed.
Link approached the group quietly.
"Hello." Rel squeaked.
"Good evening." Link replied as the other two oracles looked up. "I'm sorry if I've disrupted you."
"It's a shit show." Dornan scoffed.
"What are you doing?"
"Trying to extract this shadow curse from Aurelia, that's what we are doing."
Unprompted, Link placed his arms around Rel, helping her to her feet. Her heart raced at his touch, and she found herself unable to say anything.
"That will be enough for the day." Link informed them.
He gave Dornan a strange look.
"Well!" Dornan interrupted. "I suppose I should go and fetch my things from across the way!"
"Your things?" Link queried.
"Come Fienna." Dornan continued, picking her up from her chair. "Let's go and fetch your things too."
"But I didn't bring anything."
"Shhhhh."
He gently carried Fienna out of the door as they chatted happily.
As soon as they were alone, Rel threw her arms around Link's neck. Before he could speak, she had already kissed him.
"I missed you too." He murmured after they broke apart.
"That was excruciating." Rel sighed. "The entire day felt far too long."
Link looked over her shoulder. He spotted a puddle of water.
"Is that water?" He blinked.
"Ah, yes." Rel replied. "I must have forgotten to clean it up."
"What happened? Did the ice melt?"
"To make a long story short- Dornan is moving in."
"Where will he be staying?"
"My room."
Slipping his hands to her waist, Link pulled Rel closer. She turned to the landing door, which was still wide open.
"I'll get that." She said, breaking free from his grasp.
The lanterns inside the flat hadn't been lit, the only light coming from the ambience of the fireplace. As Rel reached the doors, Link had already caught up, putting his hands back around her waist.
"I'm nervous." She whispered to him. "You've got me up against a door again."
"Why nervous?"
He pressed his lips against her neck, sending a shiver through her whole body. She let go of the landing door handle, slipping her hands to his.
"I don't know."
With a gentle motion, Link moved his left hand down her thigh. She opened her legs, leaning into his touch.
"I've been asked to gain your trust as an ally." He whispered. "The princess is in dire need of your services."
"That's what we did, all day." She gasped. "I was visited by the spirits of the seasons."
"Really?"
"Yes. I think that the snowstorm will end."
"Are you tired?"
"Yes. And there is still an insurmountable task ahead for us."
"I'll let you sleep."
"No." She breathed back. "Didn't you hear? I have nowhere to sleep."
"Sleep with me." He teased. "Just let me get this armor off."
"No!" Rel burst out. "Ah- Can you leave it on for a while?"