Chapter 20 - Promises
Summary: Mipha and Link read Raypha's and Tidon's essays on their family trip. Zelda visits the Royal Ancient Lab to discuss Purah's and Robbie's latest research.
It was late morning in Zora's Domain, and the whole family was home in their house by Mikau Lake. Mipha and Link were sitting beside each other and trying to grade their children's writing assignments about the recent family "school trip" with their Uncle Sidon. But the home environment was not particularly conducive to concentrating at the moment.
"You're wrong, Ray," said Tidon.
"Not a chance, Ti," said Raypha. "I'm seldom wrong."
"Seldom doesn't mean never," said Tidon.
"No, but it means I'm right much more often than not," said Raypha.
"But you're still wrong sometimes. Like now, for instance," said Tidon.
"Okay, enough is enough!" said Mipha, standing up. "Why don't you two go outside while your father and I finish reading your essays? But stay nearby and only swim in the two levels of Mikau Lake here. Do you both understand?"
"Yes, Mom," said Raypha and Tidon together.
Mipha opened the door, and both children ran outside and at once dove into the lake.
"Race you up the falls! I bet I'll win!" shouted Tidon.
"Don't sulk if you're wrong about that, too!" shouted Raypha.
Mipha shook her head, closed the door, and sat back down beside Link.
"What was all the arguing about?" Link asked.
"Who knows? But this is much better now, isn't it?"
They looked each other in the eyes, dropped their gaze to each other's lips, then leaned their heads together and kissed.
"Mm, yes, much better," said Link after their kiss ended. "I couldn't concentrate on the essay with all the noise."
"Can you concentrate now?" said Mipha as she moved closer, and they kissed again, a series of brief kisses between quick breaths that lasted several minutes.
"No, I can't concentrate," said Link as he caught his breath when they finally stopped. "You're already distractingly cute, and kissing makes me forget everything else."
"Isn't it fun to distract each other, though? Of course, you distract me too."
Just then, you could make out some cheering and laughter from outside the house, bringing their thoughts back to the task at hand.
"Yes, it is, but we had better finish grading these essays, or the children won't take their next written assignment seriously," said Link.
"Fine," said Mipha with a fake pout. "Let's plan on distracting each other later, dear husband."
"I wish you hadn't said that dear wife," laughed Link. "Now I'm getting distracted thinking about getting distracted later."
Mipha tickled him in the ribs, and they both laughed, then resumed reading the essays. They read quietly for several minutes until finally, Link spoke up.
"Okay, I'm done with Tidon's essay," said Link. "If you're done reading Raypha's, we can switch."
They exchanged essays and then discussed when they were both finished reading.
"I think they both did a fine job," said Link. "They both wrote clearly and grammatically about many places we visited and the people we met."
"Yes, I agree," said Mipha. "They both wrote very well. But did you notice the difference?"
"In tone or style?"
"Yes," said Mipha. "Tidon does a good job describing how things looked and what happened. While Raypha spends more time elaborating on how things made her feel and repeats conversations."
"I see what you mean, now that you mention it."
"Here, let me give you an example. Both children wrote about the ride in the air that the Rito guards gave them, but compare how they describe the experience," said Mipha, who then read aloud.
As I clung to the back of the Rito guard and we soared high into the air, all the surrounding landscape came into view. Rito Village lay right below us, and you could see people going about their business. Far to the west stood the tall cliffs that bounded the unknown land beyond Hyrule's borders. Below us to the east lay Rito Stable, the giant horse's head over the entrance looking no bigger than a toy. But looking beyond the stable, I could see Hyrule Castle and, even further away, mighty Death Mountain with its ribbons of red lava running down its slope. Much nearer, snow-covered mountains dotted with evergreen trees in almost every direction. The guard pointed out the flight range to the northwest, where warriors still train and work on perfecting their archery skills. We flew three times around Rito Village but stayed over Lake Totori, no doubt as a precaution in case I fell off. As we approached Divine Beast Vah Medoh, it was impressive how huge it was, and it's hard to imagine something this size could fly. Medoh's mighty claws gripped a perch comprising only a slender outcropping of rock that looked too weak to support it. But perhaps the Sheikah material Medoh is made of is much lighter than it appears, which would also explain its ability to fly. The guard told me it is customary to say a brief prayer for their fallen Champion Revali when approaching Vah Medoh, which I joined him in doing.
"The writer described some more, but now listen to the similar part of the other child's essay," said Mipha.
I settled onto the Rito guard's back and took a firm grip as he instructed. His thick, soft coat of feathers made for a comfortable seat. Then, with a brief run and a flap of his mighty wings, we took to the air. I held my breath and tightened my grip as we tilted upward and ascended, the ground quickly falling away below us. Perhaps my choice of the word falling suggests my frame of mind. The sensation of flight was obviously new to me, but we soon leveled off, and I finally exhaled. The guard sensed my tension, for he took a moment to reassure me.
"Don't be nervous," he said. "Though I know that's easier said than done. I still remember how scared I was on my first serious flight as a fledgling."
"I'm feeling better now that we leveled off," I said. "But this view is magnificent! You can see so far, and there is beauty in every direction."
The snow-covered mountain peaks glistened in the sunlight, and thick, green trees swayed in the breeze, looking more like tiny plants from so high above. As we circled Rito Village three times, the guard gave me a brief tour, pointing out notable locations such as Warbler's Nest and the archery training facility at Dronoc's Pass. He explained there were updrafts around the training facility, providing the required lift for rapid takeoff and flight. I asked the guard if he still practiced there, and he said he did now and then to keep his archery skills sharp.
"They say Master Revali could quickly destroy all twenty targets in a single dive. We all aspire to approach his incredible skill with a bow."
Speaking of Champion Revali, when we neared Divine Beast Vah Medoh on our last lap, we both bowed our heads out of reverence for him, then circled the Divine Beast. I felt so puny beside it! That four such mighty weapons were needed to help defeat Calamity Ganon makes one appreciate how powerful such an evil enemy must have been.
"The first one is Tidon's and the second one Raypha's," said Mipha. "Tidon goes into more detail about what he saw, the landscape from above, how Medoh looked up close, and so on. Raypha describes things too, but less so, and spends more time explaining how she feels and what the Rito guard told her. But both essays are fine. And each can learn from the other's approach. You agree?"
"Yes, totally," said Link. "They're both excellent students."
"They are."
Link paused for a moment and then spoke up.
"But you know, I worry that as they get older and move on to more advanced subjects, I'm afraid I won't be of much help to educate them. You know I'm no scholar. I spent my time learning combat and survival techniques, not studying in school."
"Worrying about the future again, sweetheart?" said Mipha as she caressed his cheek and gave him a sweet smile.
"I guess so. You got me," laughed Link as he shook his head, then took her hand and raised it to his lips for a kiss. "I know I promised not to worry about the future, but it's your fault if I do."
"Oh? How so?"
"Well, maybe not entirely your fault," said Link. "I always worried about the future to some extent, tried to anticipate danger, and avoid being taken by surprise in my travels. But since becoming a husband and father, I've grown more concerned about our family, that you and the children will be happy and stay well."
"Now I see how you think that's my fault," laughed Mipha as she squeezed his hand. "But I couldn't have done it without you, dear. And by the way, we'd all like you to stay happy and well too."
"And I have been, also thanks to you."
"But as for the children's advanced education, that's still some time off in the future, and their needs will depend upon their interests then. We have tutors here in the domain, you know. So, Father will be happy to provide a tutor if there comes a time when we can't instruct them properly. By the way, do you think my education was somehow lacking?"
"No, not at all, sweetheart," laughed Link. "I've always been very impressed by how much you know. I thought of you as my teacher when I was very young."
"Sometimes, I think I still am."
"Very funny."
"So let's not do what, sweetheart, as we agreed?"
"Worry about the future," said Link.
"Please repeat that one more time, dear."
"Let's not worry about the future," laughed Link. "Maybe I should write it down?"
"See? You're not such a terrible student with a little coaxing."
"Aren't we in a funny mood today," said Link. "But I'll try to remember - once again."
"Now, let's go check on the children and compliment them on their fine work," said Mipha as she rose and took Link's hand. "But don't wear yourself out swimming. Save some energy for later."
"I promise. But now I'm feeling distracted again," laughed Link as he squeezed her hand, and she laughed back.
Meanwhile, at Hyrule Castle, Queen Zelda was about to make her way to the Royal Ancient Lab for her periodic meeting with Dr. Purah and Dr. Robbie. She preferred visiting the lab instead of meeting them in her office, as it allowed her to get out and see firsthand what research Purah and Robbie were pursuing. And she would also sometimes take the opportunity to visit the Science Academy school in the other wing of the building, the one adjacent to the rear of the lab. Science was still her passion, as she firmly believed it was the key to a better life for her kingdom's people. And educating the next generation of scientists was vitally important. So she enjoyed meeting the students and impressing upon them the importance of pursuing their education.
But today, she planned to visit only the lab itself.
"Good morning, Your Majesty. I'm Captain Wold. Will you be riding or walking today?" asked the Royal Guard captain in charge of her security this morning.
Zelda glanced up at the sky, and the weather looked fair.
"Good morning, Captain. If there is no objection, I'd like to walk today," said Zelda. "I need to stretch my legs, and it looks like a fine day."
The original Royal Ancient Lab had been of reasonably recent construction compared to other nearby buildings and had been built on what land was available at the time on the North Hyrule Plain. But as was true of everything near Hyrule Castle, the lab had been destroyed by Guardians in Calamity Ganon's attack. So when she discussed restoring the lab and adding classrooms to it with the architects and planners, they decided to rebuild the lab over the former site of the Castle Town Prison. That would put the lab closer to Hyrule Castle and in a more convenient location for everyone. It did have one drawback, however.
"Your lab will be closer to Castle Town and my room now, Dr. Purah, so promise me you won't blow up anything," said Zelda when they discussed relocating it.
"I promise. I'll be as cautious as my sister Impa keeps reminding me to be," chuckled Purah.
"And I'll keep an eye on her also, Your Majesty," added Robbie.
So, it was a reasonably short walk from the castle to the lab now. The Captain signaled the three other nearby guards, and they began their trek to the lab, two guards in front of her and two behind. She had promised both Impa and Link many times to only travel with sufficient security, though there had yet been no sign of any Yiga Clan activity. Zelda recalled a conversation with Link during one of his visits to Hyrule Castle.
"Thank you, Zelda. That was a delicious meal as always," said Link as they finished an early dinner."
"Better tasting than our meals at those stable cooking pots, right?" agreed Zelda. "Yet somehow, I still fondly remember those meals."
"As do I," said Link. "But it wasn't the menu that made those meals memorable. It was the company. We had some delightful conversations back then. As we still do today."
"Yes, we still do. And thanks again for all your help working with the Royal Guards. How do you feel about them now? Are they up to the task?"
"They're good," said Link. "I've tested their knowledge, and they have the right instincts about places to avoid that could be prone to an ambush. And their combat training is solid, though I pointed out they should put a bit more effort into archery, not just swordsmanship. But on the whole, I'm satisfied with their ability to keep you safe."
"Hearing you say that is reassuring, Link," said Zelda.
"But the Royal Guards are of no use unless you use them," said Link. "So please promise me you won't go anywhere without them."
"Still my loyal knight protector?" said Zelda as she smiled at Link.
"Promise, Zelda. It's important," said Link seriously. "I know how independent a spirit you are, that you like to go off on your own sometimes. But we never know when the Yiga Clan might resurface without warning, and you're our ruler now."
"I promise," said Zelda. "You and Impa keep reminding me every time we meet."
"Because we both care so much about you," said Link.
"I know, and I deeply care for both of you, too," said Zelda with a smile. "But I see it's getting late, and I've kept you away from your lovely family long enough. Thank you for coming and sharing the new pictures. Your children have grown so much, Link, and are cuter than ever. As for Mipha, if I didn't know better, I would suspect you of repeatedly using the same picture. She hasn't changed a bit."
"She's taller now, is all, still going through what they call her growth spurt," laughed Link. "But you know how Zoras are. Yes, I should be going. Thank you for having me. I enjoy spending time together and seeing that you're well. Until next time, Zelda."
"Until next time, Link," said Zelda. "Give my love to Mipha and your children. And I want to see everyone in person soon. Pictures just won't do!"
"I will, and I'll see about our next family visit," said Link. "The children would enjoy seeing more of the castle. Now please remember your promise."
"I will," said Zelda as they hugged goodbye.
They each smiled as they ended their hug, and then Link bowed and left.
Zelda's thoughts returned to the present. The walk was pleasant enough, just a gentle breeze that fluffed her hair. The occasional squirrel or sparrow would scamper or fly away as they approached. She glanced back at the castle as they crossed the aptly named Moat Bridge that spanned the Hyrule Castle Moat. There was some scaffolding along parts of the upper castle walls where repairs were still needed. But the castle looked much better and was undoubtedly livable again, though several interior locations still required renovation work.
When Zelda finally reached the lab, Purah and Robbie were expecting her.
"Ah, welcome, Your Majesty," said Purah with a big grin. "We have some interesting research to share with you, right, Robbie?"
"That we do!" exclaimed Robbie. "But first, I must thank you for coming here in person, Your Majesty, as it forces Dr. Purah to straighten the lab up a bit."
Zelda glanced around the lab, which still looked quite disorderly to her, unlike the neat way she kept her study. Purah noticed Zelda's dubious expression.
"Well, Robbie said straighten up just a bit," said Purah as she moved some papers aside for Zelda to sit down. "You should have seen it earlier."
"I think I have on occasion," laughed Zelda. "But you tell me that only proves how hard you're working. So now I'm excited to learn the latest news about your research."
"Yes, well, showing is better than telling, Your Majesty," said Purah as she rubbed her hands together. "Robbie, bring one of those Fortified Pumpkin plants to the table. I requested my sister Impa send over some pumpkins from Kakariko Village, Your Majesty."
Robbie lugged the potted pumpkin plant to the table and set it down.
"Now watch what happens when I activate this new rune," said Purah as she picked up the Sheikah Slate she had built. She held it close to the pumpkin, then pressed the rune in question, holding it down for just under a minute, and then releasing it and stepping back.
They all stared at the pumpkin, and nothing happened for several minutes.
"Just be patient," said Purah.
After another minute or two, it was clear that the pumpkin had shrunk somewhat.
"Snappity snap! You see!" exclaimed Purah excitedly.
"You created a rune to shrink pumpkins?" asked Zelda.
"No, no, Your Majesty, to reverse their aging," said Purah. "The pumpkin is younger again."
"Oh! That is truly remarkable, Dr. Purah," said Zelda.
"Yes, it's a real breakthrough," said Purah. "But of course, we have a long way to go and a great deal more research to do before we can safely use a rune such as this on people."
"On people?" said Zelda beginning to understand.
"Yes," said Purah. "For one thing, I promised our dear Link that I would work on this so he can live a longer life with his Zora family. I feel we owe him for all he did for Hyrule. But I only hope Robbie and I can perfect it in time. I hate not keeping a promise. And of course, it will also have much wider use if we ever complete it."
"Yes, I can see that," said Zelda. "But this is very exciting! Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help."
They turned back to look at the pumpkin, but now there was only a green leafy plant in the flower pot.
"Oh!" exclaimed Zelda. "That was fast."
"Um, yes, as I said, we need to do a lot more research on the intensity and duration of the rune to achieve the desired effect," said Purah.
"Well, please be careful, Dr. Purah," said Zelda. "I could see this going horribly wrong."
"I promise," said Purah.