Chapter 164 - Northern Sites
Summary: Mila finishes the first phase of her research at the Hyrule Castle Library. Zelda, Mipha, and Link join the rest of Link's family for some fun in North Hyrule. Spirit of the Sword Fi pays Link a brief visit. Zelda has a short dinner conversation with Queen Faray and Sheikah Chief Saldon.
It had been raining all day in Central Hyrule, and it was a rainy evening at the Hyrule Castle Library as librarian Alana approached where Link's oldest child Mila was sitting.
"Excuse me, Princess Mila, but I am leaving now," said Alana.
"Oh, are you closing the library? I'm sorry, I lost track of time," said Mila looking up from the book she had been reading.
"No, no, Princess, we never close," said Alana. "I just wanted to make sure you had everything you needed before I go home for the night. If you wish to take any books with you, just Tab me which ones, and I'll record them tomorrow when I return to work."
"Thank you, Alana, I have everything I need for now, and I'm almost finished," said Mila.
"It's getting late and still pouring rain out, though I suppose the rain doesn't bother you much," said Alana. "Are you planning to return home at this hour?"
"I'm spending the night here at the Castle," said Mila. "Her Majesty arranged for me to stay in my brother's room he uses when he's on duty here."
"Excellent! I'm glad to hear you're not traveling so late," said Alana. "I know they say it's safe now, but old instincts die hard. When I was young, you dare not wander far after dark for fear of your life! Goodnight then, and it was a pleasure to meet you. I attended your lecture and book award ceremony, of course, but you and your family were so busy meeting with the royal family I could not speak privately with you."
"Goodnight, Alana, and thank you for your help. The pleasure was mutual, and I will be sure to say hello to my father for you."
Alana smiled and left, leaving Mila alone now, the library empty. Mila worked another half hour taking notes, then got up and returned the book to its shelf in the history section. She took a moment to browse the shelves, impressed by how much of Hyrule's history was here. She would like to return and research further, as there was still a great deal to learn. There was so much knowledge here that no one person could know it all. But then she rubbed her eyes, as it was indeed getting late, and she needed to rest. Tomorrow would be a busy day as she planned to meet her family in North Hyrule, traveling straight there from here.
Zelda had told her to Tab Royal Guard Headquarters when she was ready to leave, and upon doing so, a guard arrived, escorted her to Linky's old room, and wished her goodnight.
Mila closed the door and then took a moment to look around. Her brother's Royal Guard uniform hung neatly in the closet, adorned with a Captain's insignia. There was also a picture on the dresser. She picked it up and saw it was a picture of Tila and Linky lying together on a picnic blanket, a big smile on both their faces amidst a host of red flowers in the background. Tila was wearing the diamond and sapphire pendant Linky had given her as an engagement gift. So, this picture was taken after their engagement, maybe right afterward. Cute!
She smiled and put the picture back, then made her way to the window and looked out. The rain was still falling, water rolling down the side of the castle. She could see the silhouette of the towers that formed Zelda's bedroom and study in the distance, but both were dark now. Seeing Zelda's room reminded her of a conversation she had had with her father a long time ago. She sometimes asked him about his other timeline once she learned about it. He seldom talked about it, but she had a way of always persuading him. Anyway, he had mentioned he explored those rooms, Zelda's study and bedroom, which had been badly damaged. But he had found Zelda's diary intact in her bedroom.
"So, Dad, you read Zelda's diary? And that of the Champions too?" Mila asked her father one afternoon as they were sitting together by Mikau Lake while her Mom and Midon played in the water.
She saw her father blush a little, look over at the water for a moment, then turn to her and answer.
"Well, you know, I needed to learn as much as I could, sweetheart," said Link. "Remember, I had lost my memory back then. And the knowledge I gained from those diaries proved useful later in convincing everyone I was who I said I was, from their future I mean."
"You did it entirely out of a sense of duty, Dad?" said Mila.
Then her Dad chuckled, kissed her on the forehead, and hugged her.
"You're very persistent, sweetheart, and I admire your search for truth," laughed Link. "You should become a historian! I'll admit I was nosy, too, especially about Zelda and Mom. I had traveled with Zelda a good deal and thought her diary could supplement the memories I was recovering from her pictures on the Sheikah Slate. And by then, I knew your Mom had been in love with me, as Grandfather had already given me the armor she made. So, of course, I wanted to learn all that I could about her. Mom wasn't happy about it later, but she got over it."
"I understand, and I would have done the same thing," said Mila as she smiled, kissed him on the cheek, and hugged him back. "Thanks for sharing your memories. I love you, Dad."
" I love you, too," said Link. "And I'm proud of you."
Anyway, it was late now, and she was tired, so she made her way to the slumber pool and climbed in. The water was refreshing but salty, the way Tila liked it. She soon fell asleep.
The next day's afternoon was sunny in North Hyrule.
"Watch out, Zelda!" Link shouted as an enormous wave crested behind her, and Zelda jumped up in time to float over it and then watch it roll onward toward shore.
Zelda and Link were wading in the sea off the North Hyrule coast, and the surf was pleasantly strong. Mipha, Mila, Midon, Lapha, and Tara were swimming together there too, but they were nowhere to be seen at the moment. Tila had already promised to spend time with some friends that day, and Zelda insisted that she not change her plans on her account. So, Tila wasn't with them at the shore.
"This is such great fun!" Zelda laughed. "I can see why it's popular here. The sea at Lurelin Village is so much calmer."
"Lurelin Village is good for boating and fishing, and it's probably safer for casual swimmers," said Link. "But Zoras love it here."
"Speaking of which, where did everyone go?" Zelda asked, seeing only open water, then preparing to jump again as another tall wave approached.
"When they're not surfing the waves, they like to play underwater," said Link as he floated beside her. "They're probably having races or playing tag or something. My son Link went off to get some fruit."
They bounced over several more waves until Zelda finally spoke up.
"I should go ashore and dry off," said Zelda. "I think I'm getting waterlogged. But the water here is so comfortable! It's warm, but not too warm."
"Yes, let's head back," said Link as they began wading ashore through the waves. "My understanding is that underwater volcanoes heat the water here. Otherwise, it would be a good deal cooler."
They made their way to a beach blanket spread under a clump of palm trees, then Link handed Zelda a towel and kept one for himself. They both dried off as they looked out to sea, then wrapped their towels around their shoulders.
A mild offshore breeze gently rattled the palm tree leaves overhead, causing them to make a soft clicking sound now and then. The sea was a greenish-blue, and large waves rolled into shore, cresting white as they broke with a crash onto the sandy beach. Herons scampered about the coast, searching for food washed in by the waves.
"Here comes your son," said Zelda as she shielded her eyes and noticed Linky returning carrying a basket.
"Some fresh fruit, everyone," said Linky as he held out a basket of apples and melons.
"Thanks!" said Zelda, helping herself to an apple. "You, Tila, and Tara must come to visit Hyrule Castle soon. My daughter Zelda would love to see all of you again and show off her son Horwell. And you can show off your adorable daughter."
"I'd like that," said Linky. "I'll check with Tila later. But how do you like it here, Zelda?"
"It's beautiful and much nicer than I expected," said Zelda. "My experience with northern lands like the Eldin and Tabantha regions led me to believe places to the north of Central Hyrule would be rather bleak. But this is a lovely location. I can see why some Zoras made this their home long ago."
Zelda hesitated for a moment.
"And why some Sheikah emigrated here as well," said Zelda with a sigh. "You know, I still feel shame over what my ancestors did to the Sheikah. It was so foolish!"
"That was such a long, long time ago now, Zelda, and only the Yiga Clan held a grudge," said Link. "You're meeting with Sheikah Chief Saldon tonight at the dinner Queen Faray organized. I'm sure there are no hard feelings. The Sheikah here already helped us greatly with technology and our defense."
"You're right, I'm sure," said Zelda. "I'm just terrible at always finding things to worry about, as my oldest daughter reminds me! I worry about the past, and then I worry about the future, too. I should try harder just to enjoy the present."
"I think it's an occupational hazard for both of us," laughed Link. "We've seen way too much in our lives. But Mipha often gives me the same advice."
"I wish Faray wouldn't make such a fuss over my visit, though," sighed Zelda. "It was just an impulse decision, and I hate to cause anyone trouble."
"She blames me for not giving her more notice since it was my idea," laughed Link. "But you are the Queen of Hyrule, Zelda, and it's your first visit to her realm. She feels it's only right to welcome you."
Just then, they heard laughing coming from the direction of the water and saw Mipha, Mila, Midon, Lapha, and Tara coming ashore.
"Mila, you cheated," said Midon. "You distracted me with a click before you tagged me."
"A sore loser as always, Midon," Mila laughed and stuck her tongue out at him.
"How come you can do that, Aunt Mila, and I can't?" Tara asked as she held Mila's hand.
"I'm sorry," said Mila. "I really shouldn't do it either. Don't get me in trouble with your parents, okay?"
By this time, everyone reached the beach blanket.
"You okay, Linky?" asked Lapha. "You could have played with us, and we would have altered the rules."
"It's okay, Laff," said Linky. "It's better for Tara if she plays like Zora's do and improves her swimming agility."
"Anyone care for some fruit?" said Link, picking up the basket Linky had put down on the blanket.
"No thanks, I already ate, dear," said Mipha. "The fish here are delicious!"
"Oh, yes, right," laughed Link. "I should have realized."
"I'll have some fruit," said Tara, reaching into the basket, as did Linky and Zelda for a second serving.
"Did you two get enough water time?" Mipha asked.
"Plenty, and it was fun," said Zelda. "I'm glad you and Link talked me into coming."
"Let me get some more fruit for everyone," said Link as he saw the basket was empty now. "I'll be right back."
Link took the basket and headed to the nearby grove where apples and melons grew. He began picking some apples when a familiar blue female-shaped figure appeared before him.
"Hello, Master," said Fi. "It's been some time since we last spoke."
"Hello, Mistress Fi," said Link. "Is that a pun? Some time?"
"No, Master," said Fi, looking puzzled. "But do you recall when I first appeared to you? It was when you and Princess Mipha first journeyed to this land."
"Yes, Fi, I remember. That was over twenty-five years ago. But now it's great to see you're back."
"Please clarify, Master," said Fi, looking puzzled again.
"Sorry?"
"Your statement is ambiguous, Master," said Fi. "Do you mean 'now it's great to see you're back,' indicating you are pleased to see me? Or do you mean 'now it's great to see your back,' indicating you are eager for me to depart?"
"The former, of course," said Link, bursting out laughing. "Only you would find my expression ambiguous, Fi! But why did you choose to appear now? Does some danger threaten us?"
"No, I do not sense any danger, Master. I was attempting to become more of what you describe as sociable."
"Well, I think that's great, Fi. Please keep it up," said Link.
"Master?" Fi asked.
"I mean, please continue doing so," said Link.
"Yes, I will strive to increase the frequency of our interactions," said Fi.
"Great, I'm looking forward to seeing more of you," said Link.
"This is all of me, Master," said Fi.
"I mean, see you more often," Link laughed. "You need to learn more colloquialisms, Fi if you want to hold a conversation. It's awkward having to explain everything to you."
"I am trying, Master, but your oral communication is so imprecise," Fi sighed.
"Don't give up," said Link. "Practice makes perfect."
"Very well, I shall," said Fi. "Thank you, Master. Your encouragement is most felicitous."
Fi disappeared, and Link chuckled. Fi guaranteed some exciting conversations. He finished picking some more fruit and then returned to the group.
After another hour, the afternoon grew late, and everyone was ready to leave.
"I hope everyone had a good time," said Linky. "Next time, if we have more notice, we can reserve some cabins and stay overnight at the shore. Tila taught me to surf here, and it's great fun."
"That does sound like fun," said Zelda. "Is surfing hard to learn?"
"It's all about balance," said Linky. "You'll fall a lot at first, but once you get the hang of it, you'll love it."
"When did Mommy teach you, Daddy?" Tara asked.
"It was soon after we married, before you hatched, sweetheart," said Linky. "Does everyone feel up to walking back to the domain, or should I arrange transport? Unless you're too tired, I recommend walking as our route takes us through Crimson Grove, and it is the flowering season now. It's quite beautiful!"
Everyone agreed walking was fine, and Linky led the way.
Meanwhile, Tila was spending time with two of her female friends she attended school with, Marena and Paloma, and listening to music with them. Paloma had been a keen student of literature and taught at school now. She had also written two mystery novels. Marena had studied music and did odd jobs while performing with a small local band, still trying to achieve recognition.
"I'm glad we could hang out a bit, Ti," said Paloma. "Tabbing isn't the same."
"I'm glad, too," said Tila. "I hope to be here more often now that Tara is getting older and my husband has less to do in Hyrule. What's this song, by the way? It's got a catchy melody."
"For real, you don't know it, Ti?" Marena exclaimed in surprise. "It's like the most popular song right now!"
"It's the latest from the Waves called 'Overflow,'" said Paloma. "They're giving the Cross Currents some competition. I guess you don't listen to our music much anymore?"
"I have a lot to occupy my time, including raising our daughter Tara," said Tila. "But I do listen to music. I just haven't kept up with the latest songs. I did find time to read your latest novel, Paloma."
"What did you think?" Paloma asked.
"It was a clever plot, and I enjoyed it," said Tila. "You hid enough clues to be fair."
"Thank you, it takes a good deal of rewriting to do that and not give away too much," said Paloma. "But you look great, Ti. You have an inner glow to you."
"You know, I can't believe our dear Tila, the center of attention at every party, is a mother already," said Marena. "You're the only one in our class who's even married. I mean, marrying so young is crazy, right?"
"Honestly, Marena, did your brain float away on the tide?" said Paloma. "Tila married a Hylian, and she couldn't wait another twenty years. Sorry, Tila, you know Marena: always spouting before thinking."
"It's okay, and I know," laughed Tila. "It doesn't bother me. I'm honestly thrilled with how things turned out. I love my husband and my daughter, and we're all happy and doing fine."
"And you don't mind living in puddles with Freshies?" said Marena. "I mean, they're so backward, Tila!"
"Oh, come on! Their lakes are hardly puddles, and they're not so backward anymore," laughed Tila. "You should visit sometime. They have beautiful waterfalls, and their Domain's Luminous Stone architecture is magnificent. The people are friendly, and nobody thinks about our saltwater or freshwater ancestors. You are way too snobbish, Marena!"
"Perhaps Marena and I can visit you while you still live there, and you can show us around," said Paloma.
"You're both always welcome there," said Tila. "I think you would enjoy it."
Meanwhile, when the group reached Crimson Grove on their way back from the beach, they stopped to enjoy the view. The secluded grotto was near to the domain and was currently awash in red flowers along with a pool of water.
"This is beautiful, Linky!" said Lapha.
"I've studied Hyrule flora, and I know we don't have this species in Hyrule," said Zelda as she knelt to examine one of the flowers. "It's quite pretty! Do you know what it's called?"
"Tila told me it's called a Coral Lily," said Linky. "It's named after the red coral that's so popular here. The Zoras here believe red coral can ward off evil and are fond of wearing it. This flower reminded them of it, I guess."
"I see," said Zelda as she stood up. "But aside from its scientific interest, this is a beautiful location."
"Yes, it is," said Linky. "This is where I proposed to Tila."
"Proposed what, Daddy?" said Tara.
"I mean, I asked Mommy to marry me, sweetheart," said Linky.
"Nice," said Mila. "That was sweet. And I saw the picture in your room at the castle, Linky."
"Yes, Tila took the picture right here after soaking me with water," laughed Linky. "Now, the domain is not much farther."
Linky led the way through the grove and then onto the path back to the structure the Zoras here called home. When they arrived, Zelda spoke privately with Link for a moment.
"Link, I will meet with Faray alone tonight, and she said she would arrange for my transport back to Hyrule Castle tonight," said Zelda. "You've been stuck keeping me company all day, and I've selfishly kept you away from your family. Please enjoy yourself with them. So, I will say farewell now."
"Are you sure, Zelda?" said Link. "It's no trouble."
"Yes, I'm sure, Link," said Zelda with a smile. "I'll be fine."
Then Zelda said farewell to everyone and left to meet with Queen Faray and Sheikah Chief Saldon.
"Tila Tabbed me asking if anyone wants to do some stargazing," said Linky. "One of the Sheikah here is giving a lecture on the stars. If so, she wants us to meet her in the plaza."
Mipha and Link exchanged a glance, and then Mipha spoke up.
"Yes, that might be interesting," said Mipha.
"Great, follow me," said Linky.
"So, Zelda didn't need you to accompany her?" Mipha asked as she and Link followed the others. "This must be a first! I hope your ego can recover."
"Very funny," said Link. "She felt I should have time this evening to be with my family, which I'm doing. Do you remember our first visit here?"
"It would be hard to forget," said Mipha. "We were prisoners. But it worked out in the end."
"You know, Fi, the spirit of the sword, appeared to me when I went to get fruit this afternoon. There was no danger. She just wanted to say hello. I wonder if Fi ever feels something like nostalgia?"
"Maybe," said Mipha. "She's known every hero who wielded the sword from the very first. You should have asked her about the hero we just met on that mysterious island, what she remembers of him."
"Yes, you're right. I didn't think of that," said Link. "Next time, I will."
The family met up with Tila, and she led them to a tall structure where some Zoras were already seated. The sky had grown dark by now, and after several more minutes, a Sheikah stood before them and began the lecture.
"My name is Kendon, and tonight I want to discuss with you what we know and what we believe to be true about the stars you see every night," said Kendon.
"Try to stay awake," Mipha whispered with a smile.
"I'll do my best," whispered Link.
Meanwhile, after exchanging greetings, Zelda, Faray, and Saldon all sat down to eat.
"I hope saltwater fish is to your liking, Zelda," said Faray.
"It's fine, and I apologize if I am interfering with either of your plans," said Zelda. "This was a sudden decision on my part to visit, and I am thrilled I did. Your seacoast is lovely."
"I'm glad you enjoyed it," said Faray. "It's a popular vacation spot."
"And I know we spoke by Tab, but let me thank you in person for all you did on our behalf during the last invasion," said Zelda. "Our enemy took us by surprise, and your help was invaluable."
"We were glad to do what we could and only wish we could have done more," said Faray. "But as you know, we have limited military forces, and they are more defensive than offensive in nature. But thanks to our Sheikah colleagues, we do have some useful technology."
"Yes, and thank you for that as well," said Zelda. "I know it's the fault of my ancestors that we need to rely on you for technology."
"We realize people grow to fear what they cannot understand," said Saldon. "It's ancient history now, Zelda. We are happy to be reunited with Hyrule."
"And I am doing my best to make sure such a thing never happens again," said Zelda. "As you know, I have encouraged science education since my earliest days, including having your people serve as instructors. I hope that people will understand the technology and not fear it."
The conversation turned to current events in both locations, and then Zelda raised a topic that had been on her mind.
"I had occasion to visit one of our forts, the Akkala Citadel," said Zelda. "What little we know of it indicates they built it to repel invaders from the sea. Since your ancestors came from the sea, Faray, I was wondering if you had any records that might shed light on who Hyrule feared would attack it."
"I can ask our historian to look into it," said Faray. "We have very little information that concerns Hyrule directly, but perhaps we had contact with whoever Hyrule feared at one point."
"Thank you, anything you learn would interest me," said Zelda.
Then the conversation moved on. Eventually, it grew late, and Zelda needed to leave, as she had meetings the next day.
"Next time, please let me know in advance of your wish to visit and bring your entire family, Zelda," said Faray. "You can all enjoy yourselves at the beach."
"I shall, Faray," said Zelda as she prepared to depart. "Thank you again. And it was a pleasure meeting you, Chief Saldon."
"One of our military boats will take you from here back to Hyrule Castle," said Faray. "Until next time, Zelda."
Zelda made her way to where two guards awaited her. After settling in her seat, she watched as the boat traveled along the river and then on into the channel that led to the Akkala Sea. Zelda recalled it was constructing that channel that unearthed that horrible Vera creature. Then she gazed across the water. It was a clear night, and the moon's reflection shimmered in the gentle waves. She Tabbed her daughters that she was on her way home, then settled back in her seat and admired the view. Once clear of the channel, one guard cautioned her to hold on, and the boat sped up as it turned south. The soft hum of the propulsion unit was soothing, and she closed her eyes, then drifted off to sleep. She awoke as she felt the boat slow down as it entered Lanayru Bay and saw the snowy peak of huge Mount Lanayru glowing white in the moonlight to the south.
"I'm glad you awoke ahead of time, Your Majesty," said the pilot. "We are about to transition to land travel for a short distance and then resume water travel in the river."
"This boat can do both?" Zelda asked.
"Yes, it has retractable wheels," said the pilot.
They reached the westernmost part of Lanayru Bay, and the ship glided onto the shore, its mechanism sensing the ground and lowering its wheels. They proceeded across the Samasa Plain and then resumed water travel on the Rutala River. It was not long before the boat dropped her off at the Hyrule Castle docks.
"Are you returning home so late?" Zelda asked the two Zora guards when they arrived. "You are more than welcome to stay."
"Yes, we work at night, Your Majesty," said the pilot. "Our shift is only half over. It was an honor and a pleasure escorting you home."
"Thank you," said Zelda.
She checked her Tab, and three messages must have arrived when she was sleeping.
Zelda_P_H:To:Zelda_Q_H::Please let me know when you're safely home, Mother.
Astra_P_H:To:Zelda_Q_H::Lemme know you're back, Mom!
Link_ZD:To:Zelda_Q_H::Please let me know when your're safely home, Zelda. It was great spending time with you!
Zelda smiled and answered each of them, then made her way to her room. Despite the brief nap, she felt tired and went to bed at once.
Meanwhile, back in North Hyrule, Link was fast asleep, his head resting on Mipha's shoulder.
"You can wake up now, sweetheart," said Mipha as she gently nudged Link awake.
"Did I miss anything?" whispered Link, rubbing his eyes.
Then he noticed everyone was gone.
"It's fine," Mipha laughed. "Tara fell asleep too. I'll tell you what you missed later. Let's head back home to Ruta now. The rest of the family is staying for a couple more days. Hold tight now, sweetheart!"
Link held onto Mipha as she activated the rune on her Tab, and an instant later, they materialized on the travel gate portal at Ruta's entrance. The lake was still in the nighttime now, and the moon reflected off the water. The only sound was that of gentle waves lapping against the side of the Divine Beast.
"You read my mind. It feels good to be back," said Link. "I know North Hyrule has its good points, but I've had too many bad experiences there to forget completely."
"You should try not to let those memories bother you so much, dear," said Mipha. "Enjoy the present and plan for the future, but don't worry about it."
"True, that's good advice," said Link. "You let me sleep too long, though, sweetheart. Now I'm not tired at all."
Mipha gave him her sweetest smile.
"Oh! Plan for the future," laughed Link as they put their arms around each other and entered Ruta for the night.