Chapter 39 - Leaks Without Water
Summary: Someone at Hyrule Castle is spying on behalf of the Yiga Clan. Zelda convenes a meeting to discuss what to do about the information found in the ancient chest.
On a calm, late evening in Castle Town, the cloudless sky was adorned with bright stars and a slender crescent moon. The day's bustle was winding down as merchants packed away their goods and secured their shops for the night. A small yet eager crowd seized the opportunity for a late-night bargain as they huddled around food stalls offering discounted perishables that required sale today or disposal.
However, one solitary figure went unnoticed among the late-night shoppers. Shrouded in a hood drawn low over their face, this lone soul made their way to a humble stone memorial near the town square — a sad testament to the souls lost to the Calamity. They gently placed a bouquet of four luminescent Blue Nightshade flowers at the site, their radiant glow bright against the darkness. Pausing momentarily in what appeared to be a silent prayer, the figure then slipped away and vanished into the night.
The following day brought a storm from the Lanayru Sea, transforming the evening's weather into gusting winds and relentless rain. The individual who had left the flowers lamented their misfortune at traveling in such inclement conditions. Nevertheless, they trudged onward in the late-night downpour, their path leading westward past the old quarry towards the Carok Bridge.
As they hoped, they had the road all to themselves, and the short stone tunnel before the bridge gave them a brief respite from the storm's fury. But as they exited the tunnel, the sound of a distant conversation carried by the wind shattered their illusion of solitude. It signaled the approach of two Hyrule Guards who were patrolling the road from the west and making their way across the wooden bridge. This was more bad luck, as guards were seldom seen on this typically desolate stretch of road. However, recent orders from castle security had instituted random patrols, making such encounters unpredictable.
Intent on remaining unnoticed, the traveler veered off the path, rapidly seeking shelter behind a tall rock outcropping to their left, just behind an old unused well. To ensure their concealment, they retrieved a vial of purple liquid from their pouch, then managed to barely avoid gagging as they swallowed the bitter concoction. Hidden behind the rock, they waited, breath held, until the guards' voices and footsteps faded into the stormy night.
Once the coast was clear, the traveler resumed their slow and steady journey. Upon reaching Carok Bridge, they were greeted by the steady drum of heavy raindrops against the wooden surface and the rush of water from the Regencia River below. Casting a vigilant glance around, the figure crossed the bridge, then carefully veered to their right and climbed down into a small hollow in the cliffs that formed the easternmost edge of the Breach of Demise. Another figure awaited them there.
"It's about time," uttered the shadow-clad figure in a hushed tone. "We received your signal. What information do you bring?"
The speaker's identity was shrouded in mystery. A mask concealed their face, and their voice was unrecognizable. You couldn't tell if the person speaking was a man or a woman. But then again, it didn't really matter, for these people could disguise themselves as either.
"I've got something important, but it's going to cost you extra," the first figure firmly replied. "And I need another vial of your stealthy elixir. I ran into a couple of guards on my way here."
"I hope you're using these elixirs sparingly," the second figure remarked, exchanging a new vial for the empty one offered. "Ingredients are scarce, and our reserves are not as plentiful as they used to be."
"Believe me, I only drink it when I absolutely have to. What? Do you think I enjoy its foul taste? Anyway, I need you to pay me triple tonight because I have some valuable information."
"Triple? That's a lot of Rupees. Don't start getting greedy on us. It doesn't pay," the second figure said, chuckling at their joke though their voice held a not-so-subtle menace.
"And don't you get tight-fisted with me," countered the first person. "You and I know I'm your best link to the castle's secrets, no pun intended. You're getting a bargain, believe me."
"You enjoy mentioning names of people we hate, don't you?" said the second figure as he weighed the proposal and then conceded.
"Alright, triple it is for tonight," they agreed, handing over a substantial amount of Rupees. "But if this information isn't worth it, you'll regret it. Understood?"
The first figure nodded, pocketing the Rupees.
"Here's what I learned: A chest of ancient manuscripts was unearthed beneath Hyrule Castle. Its origins are a mystery and might even originate from your outfit's ancestors. Anyway, one of the crackpot Sheikah scientists at the lab, Robby, apparently deciphered some of the documents. They're concerned with ancient technology and also reveal two locations where more secrets may lie."
"Which locations?"
"I'm getting to that," snapped the first person, irked by the interruption. "One is beneath Hyrule Castle, and the other is at the Forgotten Temple, once known as the Temple of Hylia."
"Must you invoke the name of that accursed deity?" the second figure grumbled. "You're doing that to annoy me, aren't you? But that's it? That's all you have?"
"All I have!? What more do you want? It sounds to me like some valuable ancient technology may be involved in this discovery. Perhaps even powerful artifacts or weapons are waiting to be found. Your people only need to be vigilant and ready to swoop in if anything useful is discovered. I think you're getting this cheap."
"We'll see. I'll pass it on," the second figure replied, sounding unconvinced. "But keep your eyes and ears open for anything else. My master won't be pleased if this turns out to be a fool's errand."
With a nod of agreement, they parted ways. Glancing back, the first figure noticed their contact had already dissolved into the shadows. They would do the same before the elixir's stealth effect ran out.
The morning sun shone brightly over Zora's Domain the following morning, the previous night's storm having faded away as it drifted further inland. Link awoke in their shared slumber pool to find Mipha already awake and smiling at him.
"Did you sleep well, sweetheart?" asked Mipha, brushing his hair aside and giving him a loving kiss. "I hope I didn't disturb your rest."
"No, I had a peaceful sleep," replied Link with a smile, returning her kiss but holding it longer. "We did have quite an eventful evening, didn't we?"
"Yes. And mm, that kiss was … sweet," said Mipha with a smile before they kissed yet again.
"For me as well," agreed Link after their kiss ended. "Were you going to say something different?"
"I was about to use a Zora expression. It would sound strange to you and you couldn't relate to it," said Mipha with a chuckle. "Sometimes I forget you're a Hylian, sweetheart. But I caught myself in time. Love you!"
"I love you too," said Link with a smile before they shared another kiss. "Very much!"
"By the way, sweetheart, I noticed the exercise and nutrition plan I've had you follow seems to have enhanced your stamina," Mipha added playfully.
"Perhaps," Link agreed, laughing. "And I'm sure the Staminoka Bass at dinner also helped."
Then, the sounds of chatter and laughter emanating from the kitchen interrupted their loving embrace.
"It seems our dear children are awake, and I know they're eager to see you before they leave for classes," Mipha remarked. "It's time we got up."
"Yes, we should," Link agreed, sealing their conversation with one final kiss before they both rose from the pool.
As Link dried off and got dressed, he couldn't help but admire Mipha's natural beauty. It amazed him how water effortlessly rolled off her soft, smooth skin, leaving her dry to the touch within moments.
Once they were both ready, they stepped out to join their children, Raypha and Tidon, who were happily enjoying their breakfast at the table.
"Oh, good, you're both finally up," said Tidon after swallowing a bite of Hyrule Bass.
"And good morning to you, too," replied Mipha with a chuckle as she gave each child a kiss on the forehead.
"There's some fresh fish on ice for you both," said Raypha.
"Thanks, I'll take care of cooking mine," said Link as he retrieved the fish, brought Mipha's to the table, and then returned to light the stove.
"Are you prepared for your classes?" asked Mipha.
"Absolutely, Mom," answered Raypha. "I take my studies seriously."
"I am too," chimed in Tidon. "The instructors are amazing."
"That's wonderful. Your father and I are proud that you value education," said Mipha.
Just then, there was a knock at the door. Link was still busy cooking, so Mipha went to answer it. A Zora guard stood outside, holding an envelope.
"Forgive the interruption, Lady Mipha," said the guard respectfully. "We received this letter with the Hyule Royal Seal and thought it might be important."
"Thank you, Nolan," replied Mipha as she took the envelope from him.
Nolan bowed and left while Mipha closed the door behind her.
"Hmm … a letter with the Hyrule Royal Seal," observed Mipha as she examined the envelope.
"It must be from Zelda. Maybe it's an invitation to her wedding?" suggested Link as he finished cooking his fish.
"Queen Zelda is getting married!?" gasped Raypha in surprise.
"No, no," chuckled Mipha. "She would have told us beforehand. And this envelope looks official, not like a wedding invitation."
Mipha opened the envelope and quickly scanned its contents.
"I won't read the letter aloud, but basically, Zelda is inviting you and me, sweetheart, to a meeting this weekend with Impa, Purah, Robbie, and herself to discuss what to do about some information gleaned from an old chest discovered beneath Hyrule Castle."
"That sounds intriguing," responded Link as he sat down to enjoy his now fully cooked fish. "There are always discoveries waiting to be made in such an immense and old castle."
"Can Ray and I come too?" Tidon asked. "We're big enough not to need you minding us while you attend the meeting."
"You want to come with us, Tidon? I thought you were the one cheering to stay home the last time your father and I traveled," Mipha teased.
I guess I overreacted a bit, Mom," admitted Tidon.
"And we both loved exploring Hyrule Castle during our last visit," added Raypha. "It's so grand and educational. Don't you want to encourage our education, Mom and Dad?"
"Yes, we do, sweetheart. And I'm sure that Zelda spoiling you like an aunt has nothing to do with your eagerness to visit," joked Mipha. "But you're both in luck. I haven't yet mentioned Zelda's postscript.
Please feel free to bring your delightful children and brother Sidon along, if available. I can arrange to have someone stay with them while we meet, and there will be ample time afterward to socialize. Consider this request just short of a Royal Command: I miss them - and you!"
Yay!" exclaimed Tidon with excitement.
"Are you going to translate Tidon's 'yay' for us again, Raypha?" teased Link, recalling a previous incident.
"I believe it means yay, we're going to Hyrule Castle!" laughed Raypha. "
"Well then, you better hurry off to class," said Mipha, breaking up the excited chatter. "You wouldn't want to be late and miss all that valuable education."
After hugs and kisses all around, Raypha and Tidon headed out, leaving Mipha and Link alone.
"I wonder how Zelda's meeting will go?" said Link as Mipha handed him the letter to read for himself. "She doesn't say much; it all sounds a bit cryptic."
"Yes, but I'm sure it's because Zelda did not want to commit too much to writing in case the letter went astray," said Mipha. "Now I need to see Father and explain matters."
"Great, and I'll clean up," said Link. "I still have a lot of energy."
"Try not to use it all up cleaning dishes," laughed Mipha. "I'll be back soon."
Mipha followed the path to the throne room and explained the situation, finding her father, King Dorephan, available while Sidon was in class.
"I hate to turn Zelda down or disappoint her," said King Dorephan. "But I'm afraid your dear brother has other plans this weekend. He's very much looking forward to his class's overnight field trip to Lanayru Bay and having fun with friends. Your little brother is growing up, sweetheart."
"Oh, I see. Well, I'm glad he won't be disappointed to miss our visit at least," said Mipha. "And you, Father, try not to worry when we're away."
"I will worry a lot less than when you all wandered off into the Gerudo Desert. But as a parent, you understand one never stops worrying. Give my best wishes to Queen Zelda. From all I can tell, she's doing a marvelous job, and I know her father, King Rhoam, would be proud of her."
The rest of the days leading up to the weekend were uneventful, and it was midday when Mipha, Link, Raypha, and Tidon arrived at Hyrule Castle, where a guard awaited them.
"Lady Mipha, Captain Link, Sir, and family, welcome to Hyrule Castle," said the guard. "My name is Toron, and Her Majesty alerted us to be on the lookout for you. Please follow me. I will show you to your quarters and, after you have time to freshen up, will take you directly to Her Majesty. She hoped to see your family before her meeting begins. "
Toron led them to the same room they had stayed in during their last overnight visit. It was nicely furnished with two beds and a large slumber pool filled with fresh water built into the floor. After a few moments, everyone was ready, and Toron escorted them to a small meeting room.
"Her Majesty will be along presently," said Toron. "I already informed her guards that you're here."
"Now remember we need to show respect to Her Majesty when she arrives," said Mipha, and both Raypha and Tidon nodded.
It was only a moment later when Zelda entered the room. Everyone knelt on one knee, but Zelda quickly reached out and hugged Mipha, Link, Raypha, and Tidon in turn.
"It's about time you brought the family to visit again," said Zelda finally. "You all look wonderful. And Raypha and Tidon, you look so much more grown up each time I see you-probably because I don't see you often enough."
"We will try to do better about that, Zelda," Link acknowledged with a chuckle. "I don't want to be arrested again for failing to visit."
"Have you eaten? We're serving a buffet lunch at the meeting, but Raypha and TIdon, would you like something to eat? And please call me Aunt."
"Thank you, Aunt Zelda," said Raypha. "But Tidon and I had some fish on the swim here."
"In that case, I was hoping you might enjoy continuing your castle tour where we left off the last time," said Zelda. "Two of our history scholars are waiting to show you around - with your parent's permission, of course."
"It's fine, Zelda," said Link after glancing at Mipha and seeing her nod.
"And we would love that, Aunt Zelda," said Tidon. "The castle is amazing!"
Zelda stepped to the doorway and signaled to two individuals in the hallway.
"This is Helena and Collin, and both are very knowledgeable about the castle and its history," said Zelda. "I think you will find it interesting to see some of the less traveled areas of the castle, like some of the underground passages."
After introductions, Helena and Collin led the two children off to begin the tour.
"Now, we should all adjourn to the meeting room to have lunch and begin our discussion," said Zelda. "Impa, Purah, and Robbie are already here. Oh, and I made sure to have fresh fish for both of you - yours cooked Link, of course."
"Thank you, Zelda, that's very thoughtful of you, isn't it, dear?" said Mipha, giving Link a satisfied look that made him shake his head and laugh.
Zelda led the way down the hall to another room, and upon entering, Mipha and Link were greeted by Impa, Purah, and Robbie.
"Impa, it's good to see you again," said Link. "It brings back memories of the days we spent in Kakariko Village while Her Majesty lived there."
"That was quite an interesting time. But you both should visit Kakariko Village more often," said Impa.
"Perhaps we could all get a plate of food and sit down," Zelda announced. "We can work while we eat, as I would like to leave ample time for discussion."
Everyone did as asked, and when they were seated, Zelda spoke up again.
"As Dr. Robbie has been the lead researcher on this matter, I will ask him to begin our meeting by sharing his findings," stated Zelda.
"And remember, Robbie, people are more interested in your discoveries than your method of finding them. So try not to pat yourself on the back too much," Purah whispered to him with a smirk.
"Yes, I'll save all my praise for your research, Dr. Purah - whenever it finally bears fruit," countered Robbie with a sly smile.
Then, clearing his throat, Robbie rose from his seat and addressed the group.
"I'll keep things concise and stick to the important details," he began, explaining the discovery of the chest and its contents as far as he could translate them.
"While the material we found is immensely valuable to science, it also hints at some hidden secrets beneath this castle and in the Forgotten Temple," concluded Robbie.
"Thank you, Dr. Robbie," acknowledged Zelda. "And now we come to the heart of our discussion – should we seek out whatever these documents suggest may be buried or leave things undisturbed? The scientist in me is eager for exploration, but the ruler in me understands the importance of caution for the safety and well-being of our people. Hyrule's history has taught us that venturing into the unknown can have dire consequences. This is why I value everyone's opinions on this matter, though ultimately, I bear full responsibility for any decision. So let us hear from others. Dr. Purah, would you like to share your thoughts first?"
"I am in favor of exploration. Technology is the future for Hyrule. We have seen how ancient technology brought about a golden age before, and perhaps our discoveries can help us restore it once again," said Purah.
The group discussed the good and bad moments in Hyrule's past until Purah finished speaking.
"Dr. Robbie, would you like to go next?" Zelda asked.
"Yes. Although I don't make a habit of it, I also agree with Dr. Purah in this instance. Our research could benefit greatly from any new findings. The future belongs to those who are bold, not those who are timid. I vote for investigating these locations."
Zelda then turned to Impa and asked for her input.
"I believe we should leave things as they are," replied Impa. "Though it may not have been how we hoped for, we defeated the Calamity in the end, and most monsters are no longer a threat to our people. Shouldn't we be content with this outcome? We can create our own golden age through hard work and perseverance. Why risk pursuing something unknown? It may be hidden for a reason - perhaps it is dangerous, and we could unleash something we cannot control."
Mipha agreed with Impa's stance: "Our kingdom has already suffered greatly, including the loss of loved ones, before achieving the peace and prosperity we have now. I fear that we may have more to lose than to gain."
"What about you, Link?" Zelda asked after a moment or two of silence.
"I am facing something of a dilemma because I am unlike the others in this group. Dr. Purah and Dr. Robbie are both scientists who want to explore the unknown and find potential benefits. Mipha and Impa, on the other hand, are rulers or have been raised as such. They understand that new discoveries may bring good things for their people but also consider the potential harm they could cause. I am not a ruler or a scientist but an adventurer. I love Hyrule and its people dearly and will do anything to protect them from danger. But I am also an explorer at heart and have felt the excitement of uncovering something new. Additionally, I have faith in Goddess Hylia and trust that she will provide the means of protection when needed. I suggest picking one location to investigate, preferably the more remote one, and proceed cautiously."
"That's three votes for exploration versus two for caution," said Zelda. "But please do not blame yourselves if any negative consequences arise from your vote. Your words are simply advice; ultimately, the decision is mine alone. I will consider everything we discussed and pray to Goddess Hylia for guidance. We can end our meeting now, and you are welcome to stay here as long as you wish."
"Thank you, Your Majesty, but I wish to resume work on further translation," said Robbie. "What I learn may help your decision and our exploration if you decide to proceed. And so I will bid everyone farewell."
"And I wish to spend some time with my sister and catch up on things," said Impa. "She's an elusive person to get together with. So she and I will also say goodbye."
As the others departed, Zelda turned to Mipha and Link.
"I hope you two don't also have something you need to rush off to," said Zelda.
"No, Zelda, we're free to stay with you all weekend," replied Link.
"Excellent! That makes me happy," exclaimed Zelda. "Let's find your children now and plan on having a lovely dinner together, just the five of us. I'm eager to hear all about what you've been up to."
"Forgive me for prying, but will Royce not be joining us for dinner?" asked Link. "I was hoping to continue our conversation from last time."
"Unfortunately, he is busy grading final exams today," explained Zelda. "Grades are due tomorrow morning at the academy, and Royce always takes his teaching duties very seriously. He reviews each student's work multiple times to ensure fair grading. If there's ever a lull in the conversation, ask him about his teaching methods and sit back while he passionately talks about it."
"That's good to know," chuckled Link. "And dinner sounds wonderful. I'm actually starting to get hungry."
"Don't worry, Link," said Zelda with a smile. "Mipha already informed me of your favorite fish and the correct portion size."
Then Zelda and Mipha laughed while Link shook his head.
Dinner was served in the cozy family dining room where Zelda used to eat with her parents.
"So, how was the castle tour?" Zelda asked Raypha and Tidon. "I hope you enjoyed it."
"We did, Aunt Zelda!" exclaimed Raphya. "We never realized there were so many secret tunnels. One even took us from the library right to the dock, where we could get in some water time. And other tunnels gave us stunning views of the castle moat."
"Aunt Zelda, have you explored every part of the castle?" inquired Tidon.
"Most of the accessible areas," Zelda replied. "We've spent years scouring the castle for ancient Sheikah technology. But I'm sure there are still uncharted regions, possibly hidden behind sealed walls."
"I hope you expressed your gratitude to Helena and Collin for their assistance," Mipha chimed in.
"Yes, we both did. And we also invited them to visit our domain anytime for a tour of our magnificent home," Raypha added.
"That was very considerate and mature of you," Link complimented. "I'm impressed."
After dinner, everyone but Link said goodnight and promised to meet for breakfast the following morning. Then Mipha escorted the children back to their room, giving Link some private time with Zelda.
"You look happy and well, Zelda," Link said with a smile. "But as you well know, I'm not the best judge of women's emotions. So, I hope I'm right."
"Funny," Zelda chuckled. "You seem to have improved, though, because I am genuinely happy. Royce and I have a strong relationship, and I've been able to delegate more tasks to my ministers, which has greatly reduced my workload."
"No more nightmares or sleepless nights?"
"I rarely have nightmares anymore," Zelda replied. "They only occur when I remember that our kingdom still has dangerous enemies who hide in the shadows. But I'm glad to see Mipha is keeping you in shape, Link. We may need your help again someday."
"I know Mipha does it to extend my lifespan, but your point is well taken," Link agreed.
"Speaking of which, Dr. Purah is still working on something to prolong life, but progress has been slow. I hope she finishes it in time for it to be useful."
"That would be amazing."
"And what about you, Link? Are you happy with your life?" Zelda asked after a moment.
"Very much so. Life with Mipha and our family is wonderful. I just hope I can be a good husband and father for as long as possible."
"You know, I was serious when I suggested you visit more often," Zelda said softly. "You and Mipha are the only ones I feel completely comfortable sharing everything with. Maybe someday, I'll reach that point with Royce, too. But he didn't live through what we did, and I don't want to burden him with my…issues just yet."
"I understand completely, Zelda. And please know that both Mipha and I will always be here for you whenever you need us," Link reassured her.
"Thank you, Link. You have a kind heart," Zelda said gratefully.
There was a pause before she continued.
"But I can't help but worry that I will make the wrong decision about what we discussed."
"Don't worry, Zelda," said Link as he took her hand. "We are in this together, no matter what challenges may come. Mipha and I will always be by your side, along with your many loyal subjects who love and support you."
"I already know in my heart what you say is true. But hearing you say it helps ease my concerns," said Zelda. "It may seem strange, Link, but I still see you as my true protector."
"And I see you as ours, Zelda. You are the descendant of Hylia and have the strength, wisdom, and courage to guide us through any darkness," Link continued, determination evident in his voice. "And we will stand by you every step of the way. Together, I know we can overcome any evil. It's what we do."
Zelda smiled as she embraced Link, grateful for his unwavering faith in her. They held each other tightly, savoring the feeling of how uniquely special they were to each other.
"Now I've kept you long enough. I had better let you go to your family. Goodnight, my brave hero," Zelda whispered as they parted ways.
"Goodnight, my princess and queen," Link replied before heading off to join his family.