Chapter 50 - Royal Wedding - Part One
Summary: Purah lectures Robbie on her age reduction research. Queen Zelda and Royce marry, ushering in a new era for Hyrule.
It was a sunny morning at the Royal Ancient Tech Lab near Hyrule Castle, and Dr. Purah was standing at a blackboard she had borrowed from the adjoining Royal Academy and lecturing to Dr. Robbie. Nearby were three large folders, one labeled "Flora," a second labeled "Insects," and the third labeled "Lizards."
"For a given species p, let their normal future life expectancy at age x be e(p,x). We have these values through observation and experimentation," she added, nodding toward the folders. "Let the subject's mass at age x be m(p,x), since different individuals of the same age can be different sizes.
Purah scribbled the math notation on the blackboard.
"Now, let A(t) represent the age reduction rune applied for a length of time t," said Purah as she continued.
"Then we have to derive the specimen's new age after applying the age reduction rune. Let's call this new age y."
"Given we know e(p,x), A(t), and m(p,x), the value of y is given by the following functional equation:"
"y = f(e(p,x), A(t), m(p,x)), where f is the formula we need to derive.
"The ultimate goal is, for a given species such as a Hylian, to find the value of t, the length of time needed to expose a subject of age x and mass m to the rune to achieve a given age reduction to age y."
"That is the heart of the problem, is it not?" Robbie interjected.
"Yes," said Purah. "All of that is theory. Now, as to experimentation, how do we actually measure ages post-treatment? For insects with short life spans, for example, we can determine their new age y by simply seeing how long they actually live after the age reduction treatment. If E(p,x,t) is their new life expectancy after treatment of length t administered at age x, then their new age y is the value for which E(p,x,t) = e(p,y) and their age reduction is x-y."
"That's clear enough," said Robbie.
"For longer-lived species like lizards, we can't wait for them to live out their lives after treatment to observe E(p,x,t) directly. We need to estimate their new age y by taking cell samples and comparing various measurements of their physical condition to the cells of a normal untreated specimen at different ages."
Purah paused a moment, then continued.
"As you can see, a significant amount of data is required to determine these values through experimentation. Hence, my slow but steady progress. As you can also see, I am being thorough and systematic in my research and ensuring no harm comes to any of my test subjects, including checking that the treatment has no unintended side effects. In fact, I've helped many of them by extending their lifespans," Purah explained proudly.
Their conversation was suddenly interrupted by the sound of sheep bleating and a dog barking just outside the lab.
"What in the name of Hylia!" Robbie exclaimed, jumping up from his seat. He quickly threw open the door to find a shepherd and his sheepdog herding a flock of sheep into an enclosure next to the lab.
"Oh, perfect! My new test specimens have arrived!" Purah exclaimed with excitement, rubbing her hands together. "I need larger test subjects than lizards for the next stage of my research."
"We're raising sheep now? No wonder you were so secretive about those new fences you had built. And speaking of subjects, we're Queen Zelda's subjects and are both invited and expected to attend her wedding today. So don't get too caught up in your research," Robbie reminded her.
"I'm rather eager to begin. Do you think she would notice my absence?" Purah replied, but before Robbie could answer, he saw from her grin that she was teasing.
"I need to let the sheep calm down and get settled in their new environment first anyway," said Purah. "By the way, I should have asked you this first. You know how to take care of sheep, right?"
"What?! You expect me to do that? You realize I have my own research to attend to, don't you?" Robbie protested angrily.
"Relax, I'm just teasing you again," laughed Purah. "I've hired a shepherd from Hateno Village to care for them. He was willing to come cheap when I told him he could expect extra wool from a longer-lived flock. Let me go speak to him and check everything is okay."
Meanwhile, at Hyrule Castle, Link awoke to find himself alone in their room, and after getting up, he found a note from Mipha on the dresser.
Morning sweetheart,
Thanks for checking my skin for dampness last night.
I left early to help Zelda prepare for her big day and brought the Sheikah Slate with me to take pictures. But more importantly for you, a guard said there is a buffet breakfast and lunch with refreshments being served in the family dining room for all wedding invitees, so help yourself. It's a convenient place to wait before heading to the wedding. Afterward, the reception will be held in the main castle dining hall.
See you soon. And don't be late for the ceremony!
Love you!
P.S. Remind our two darling children to behave when you see them. You're in charge now. And please check on Sidon if you don't see him.
Link laughed and shook his head, then dressed and headed to the dining room, where Raypha and Tidon were already sitting at one of the tables and eating some fish. No one else was there, and they had the room to themselves.
Good morning, Dad," said Raypha. "Glad you're finally up. Where's Mom?"
"Oh, is it that late?" said Link. "I didn't check the time. She's with Zelda, helping her get ready for the wedding. Oh, by the way, Mom said,… I mean, I want you to remember to behave today, okay?"
"Trust us, Dad," said Tidon with a grin. "We're young adults now … kind of."
"Of course," added Raypha. "Try the cooked Hearty Salmon, Dad. It's a great way for you to start the day."
"Maybe that and some eggs," said Link as he helped himself and then sat down. "Have you seen Sidon?"
"He already ate then left to meet Gaddison and Rivan in Castletown," said Raypha. "He said he didn't have much of a chance to explore it yesterday. A Hylian guard went with him, saying it was Queen Zelda's orders if we went out alone."
"Very thoughtful of her," said Link. "Mm, these eggs are tasty."
As Link and his children ate, workers were busy putting the finishing touches on the Sanctum, including temporary seats for attendees and decorating the room with Silent Princess, Blue Nightshade, and Swift Violet flowers.
It was about an hour after Link finished breakfast when Sidon returned.
"It's amazing! Castle Town is going wild with excitement," said Sidon. "Spots close to the castle are already taken. Gaddison and Rivan thought I should return before it got even more crowded. We had to take the moat around to the side of the castle."
"Good thinking," said Link.
"Uncle Sidon, why don't we give you a brief tour of the castle," said Tidon.
"Is that okay, Dad?" Raypha asked. "Will you be alright alone here?"
"Sure, just don't wander too far and get lost. And don't hesitate to ask a guard for directions if you do. Please return here no later than two hours from now so we will be ready to leave for the ceremony."
"Let's go," said Tidon as they left.
During the rest of the morning, the other guests arrived. Gerudo Chief Ryla was the first.
"Link! Sav'otta! It's good to see you again," said Ryla. "I guess Mipha is busy helping Zelda."
Ryla's fiery red hair was adorned with an elaborate headdress resembling a golden crown with a large ruby-like gem at the center. She wore a sleeveless top in shades of green and gold, adorned with intricate patterns and a blue gem at the center of the chest. Around her waist was a gold belt with a large blue gem at the front. Her orange and yellow silk skirt was loose-fitting and featured a slit on one side, revealing her thigh. She also wore several gold bangles around her wrists and neck.
"Yes, and Sav'otta Chief Ryla," said Link. "My brother-in-law Sidon and children are also here, but off exploring the castle together."
"I want to say that whatever you did is nothing short of miraculous," said Ryla. "The Yiga Clan are like best friends now, not that some of us feel we can trust them yet. But they have opened up their hideout and sworn loyalty to us while living in our land. I never dreamed this day would come."
"It is somewhat miraculous," admitted Link.
Just then, Darno from the Gorons arrived and came over to them.
"Greetings Link and Sav'aaq Chief Ryla," said Darno. "Or is it Sav'otta?"
"Either is fine, Chief Darno," laughed Ryla. "Good morning or good day; I'm happy to hear you learned either one."
Darno wore a blue Champion scarf around his neck that once belonged to his father, Daruk, and was secured with a large buckle. As was typical of Gorons, he also wore a simple loincloth in a shade of brown.
"I should personally thank you for all the diggers you provided at the Forgotten Temple," said Link. "Their help was enormous, and I'm sure we would never have made so much progress without their help."
"You're welcome, and we love digging," said Darno. "But excuse me, I think I'll just check out the buffet. I see some juicy-looking Rock Roasts heating at the far end of the table, and I rolled all the way here."
"I should eat something as well," said Ryla. "The reception is still quite a ways off, and it was a long journey here."
Some workers from the kitchen periodically refilled some trays of food and brought in some new ones as well.
Then, a few moments later, Medli of the Rito arrived. He spotted Link and came over to say hello.
"Link, good to see you, and thanks for what you accomplished, though I can't say I understand how," said Medli. "I was told your family would be here. I imagine your children have grown quite a bit since I last saw them - though we could still easily fly them anywhere."
Medli was wearing armor consisting of a breastplate adorned with red, white, and teal geometric patterns. The breastplate has a circular emblem at the center. He also wore shoulder guards with similar designs and colors. Underneath his armor, Medli wore a light brown tunic that extended down to his knees. Around his waist was a belt with a large, decorative buckle.
"Good to see you again, too, Chief Medli," said Link. "The children are off touring the castle with my brother-in-law Prince Sidon, and we all still fondly remember our trip to your village and your kind hospitality."
"You and your family are welcome there anytime," said Medli. "Let me go say hello to the others."
Impa arrived next dressed in a traditional Sheikah outfit and also approached Link first.
"Lady Impa, good to see you," said Link.
"And you too, Link," said Impa. "I'm so happy for Zelda that she finally found someone to be with and help her look to the future instead of the past."
"Yes, me too. I feared it might never happen," Link replied.
"Maybe my urging her had something to do with it, but who knows? She can be quite stubborn about some things. 'Impa, you are very wise, and I value your advice on many matters - just not my love life,' she told me. You know, I admit I once expected you to be at Zelda's wedding, just not as a guest."
"I know you did, and it was understandable," said Link with a smile. "I wasn't very forthcoming about my feelings for Mipha - not even with her."
Link noticed Sidon, Raypha, and Tidon had just returned and were checking some of the newly delivered food.
"Is my sister not here yet?" said Impa as she glanced around the room. "I hope she didn't forget about the wedding. She sometimes attaches too little importance to things like that."
"Is that possible? I guess we could ask a guard to check the lab before it gets too late," said Link.
But a few minutes later, Purah and Robbie arrived, both involved in discussing their research.
"Ah, you finally made it," said Impa, interrupting their conversation. "And hello Robbie."
"Don't blame me," said Robbie. "I kept urging Dr. Purah to come sooner, but you know how she is: always one more thing to do. It wasn't until I threatened to leave without her that she finally relented."
"Hi Sis," said Purah. "Unlike you, I don't always play things safe. But I'm here in plenty of time."
"Not really, dear sister," laughed Impa as just then a guard interrupted everyone's conversation.
"It's time for me to escort everyone to the Sanctum," said the guard. "The ceremony will be starting soon. Please follow me."
"Oh! I guess that was closer than I expected," muttered Purah.
"I'll meet everyone there," said Medli. "I know where it is and can fly there more easily than climbing stairs."
Everyone else followed the guard along castle passages and stairways until they reached the rear of the Sanctum and entered. Sunlight streamed through the magnificent glass windows onto the rich red carpeted floor, casting a warm glow over the assembled guests. Elegant tapestries of red and blue, embossed with the gold royal symbol, hung from balconies and horizontal flag poles, their soft rustling adding to the atmosphere of majesty and tradition. Besides the rulers, many high-ranking Royal Guards were present, as well as some others Link didn't know. The delicate fragrance of the Silent Princess, Blue Nightshade, and Swift Violet flowers adorning the Sanctum filled the air. Musicians played some background music, which masked some of the conversations.
Link and his family took their seats, along with the other invitees who had come from the buffet. Link thought the Sanctum restoration had gone quite well. The last time he remembered it being intact was the Champion's Inauguration Ceremony, which seemed like ages ago now. The next time he saw it, the room was terribly damaged, and he had other matters on his mind - like dealing with Calamity Ganon.
Meanwhile, Mipha was still busy assisting Zelda in her room.
"The dress is lovely, Zelda, and you look beautiful in it," said Mipha as Zelda checked herself in the mirror.
"Thank you," said Zelda. "Can you help me with this precious necklace? I'm afraid of dropping it."
"Of course," said Mipha as she undid the clasp, placed it around Zelda's neck, and then fastened it.
Zelda again checked herself in the mirror.
"It's truly elegant," said Zelda. "Thank you. I feel honored to wear it. Now, one last piece of jewelry."
Zelda went to one of her desk drawers and removed a silver bracelet adorned with three gems: an emerald, ruby, and sapphire. Then she slipped it on her right wrist.
"This was my mother's," Zelda explained. "I have distant memories of her wearing it on my and Father's birthdays, perhaps other special occasions as well. Father gave it to me when I turned fifteen. I was amazed to find it still intact inside my desk amidst all the destruction. Perhaps she was looking out for it. I wish …."
"It is beautiful, Zelda," Mipha interrupted. "And the gems represent the three goddesses, whose blessings I am sure you will have."
"Yes, thank you for keeping me focused," said Zelda with a sigh and a smile. "I hope at least my luck in life changes now, and this wedding will not suffer my family curse."
"What do you mean?"
"I sometimes think some malevolent force follows me in life," said Zelda. "Just before I turned seven and was to begin learning from my mother how to access my sealing power, my mother died. And then, just as I turned seventeen and was again perhaps about to gain my sacred power, Calamity Ganon attacked. It seems some evil befalls me at pivotal moments in my life."
"If that were once true, it was no doubt the work of Ganon or his followers," said Mipha. "Both are gone now, so you need to stop worrying. I believe your future with Royce looks watery… I mean, it looks bright. Isn't that what you Hylians say?"
"Yes, that's right," laughed Zelda, who paused momentarily then continued.
"But looking to the future instead of the past, I also know my choice of husband goes beyond simply our own mutual affection. The official coronation will come later, but my husband will be named King of Hyrule and must know how to govern, especially if something happens to me as it did with my mother. I hope I am correct in my assessment that Royce has that in him. I know Father did."
"I'm sure he will with your guidance," said Mipha. "And I am certain you and Royce will have many happy years together. Now, let me check the back of your dress once again. And then I'd like another picture of you wearing the bracelet and necklace."
Mipha knew she would have trouble keeping Zelda from thinking of her lost family and past. It was normal to think of family at one's wedding, just as she thought about her mother when she and Link married. But it was important not to let it ruin the present.
After taking a few pictures, there was a knock on the door.
"Yes?" said Zelda.
"I was told to inform you, Your Majesty, that everything is ready, and you can leave for the service whenever you are," came a voice from outside the door.
"Thank you, it will just be another moment," said Zelda.
"Well, it's time," said Zelda, turning to Mipha. "Thank you, Mipha. I couldn't have gotten this far without your help."
"I'm glad I could," said Mipha. "I've always wanted to help you, Zelda. I hope you know that."
"I do," said Zelda.
"Perfect! I just wanted you to practice saying that," said Mipha, and then she and Zelda both burst out laughing.
"You're amazing," laughed Zelda. "You know how to cure my mood. Let's go."
After everyone had been seated for a while at the Sanctum, the musicians suddenly stopped playing, a sign that the wedding party was about to enter. Everyone stood and turned to the rear, and the musicians began a different tune as the wedding procession walked down the aisle to the front. First came Gavin, who would perform the ceremony, followed by the groom, Royce, dressed in a finely tailored royal blue colored suit that combined elements of traditional Hyrulian attire with modern sophistication. Next came his best man, Ryan, dressed in his Royal Guard uniform, followed by Mipha, who wore her best Zora jewelry for the occasion.
"Wow! Mom looks amazing!" whispered Tidon, which elicited a shush from Raypha.
When the wedding party reached the front, they all took their positions facing the rear, and the musicians paused once again. Finally, after a moment of silence, they began playing another song Link assumed was the Hylian wedding march, and everyone's eyes were glued to the rear where Queen Zelda stood.
As Zelda slowly made her way down the aisle, she was a vision of grace and elegance in a gown that shimmered like the stars, flowing white with intricate silver embroidery containing royal family symbols. A gold circlet adorned her head, bearing the royal family's crest. Zelda also wore the Zora sapphire necklace, whose deep, rich blue looked perfect along with her other attire, as did her mother's bracelet on her right wrist. Zelda carried a bouquet of Silent Princess flowers, and as she walked down the aisle, her gaze met Royce's, and they shared a brief smile.
When Zelda reached the front, Mipha turned and took a position to Zelda's left while Royce stood to her right and Ryan next to Royce, all facing Gavin, the music having stopped.
Then Gavin spoke up, and his commanding baritone voice echoed through the high ceilings of the Sanctum as he began, "We are gathered here today to bear witness to and celebrate an event of deep personal significance and importance for our kingdom. Queen Zelda and Royce have prepared their wedding vows, which they shared with me. I now ask them to recite their vows so all may witness them. Queen Zelda has elected to say her vows first."
Zelda cleared her throat and then began.
My Dearest Royce,
In a kingdom full of adventures, I never imagined that my greatest adventure would be with you. As Princess of Hyrule, I faced many trials and triumphs, but nothing compares to the joy I have found with you.
Our passion for science and the world's mysteries united us from the moment we met. Your dedication to pursuing knowledge, curiosity about the world around us, and boundless enthusiasm have made you the perfect companion. And from that common interest, our friendship grew into love.
I vow to be your partner in everything and always to support you, just as you have supported me. I promise to cherish the moments of quiet study as much as the grand adventures, to celebrate your achievements, and to comfort you in times of challenge. We will create a legacy of love and knowledge together that will stand the test of time.
With all my love and devotion, I vow to be your wife, friend, and eternal companion.
Then it was Royce's turn.
My Beloved Zelda,
I never imagined that I would find a love so profound, so extraordinary, as the love I have found with you. As a humble science teacher, my world was transformed the day our paths crossed, united by our shared passion for discovery and the mysteries of life.
You are not only the Queen of Hyrule but the queen of my heart. Your strength, wisdom, and grace have inspired me in ways I never thought possible. Together, we have explored the depths of knowledge, and in doing so, I have discovered the deepest truth of all – my love for you.
I vow to stand by your side and support you in your royal duties and our shared quests for understanding. I promise to honor and cherish you, to be your steadfast companion in all of life's adventures, both great and small.
Zelda, you have shown me that the greatest discoveries are not just in the stars or the pages of a book but in the heart and soul of the one you love. We will create a future filled with love, learning, and endless possibilities.
With all my heart, I vow to be your husband, confidant, and eternal love.
As Zelda and Royce exchanged their vows, their voices trembled with emotion, and tears of joy glistened in their eyes. The attendees in the Sanctum smiled and wiped away their own tears, moved by the couple's heartfelt words and the obvious love between them. The officiant, Gavin, smiled warmly as he witnessed the exchange.
Next came the exchange of rings.
"Zelda, I give you this ring as a symbol of my love, and with all that I am and all that I have, I honor you in the name of the Goddess Hylia," said Royce as he slipped the ring on her finger.
Then Zelda did the same to him.
Finally, in a symbolic gesture, Zelda and Royce each took a Silent Princess and a Blue Nightshade flower from the altar and intertwined them, representing the unity of their hearts and the joining of their families.
"Now I come to the official part," whispered Gavin with a smile.
"Royce, do you take Zelda to be your wife, to live together in holy matrimony in devotion to the Goddess Hylia, to love her, to honor her, to comfort her, and to keep her in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, for as long as you both shall live?"
"I do," said Royce in a firm and resolute voice.
"Zelda, do you take Royce to be your husband, to live together in holy matrimony in devotion to the Goddess Hylia, to love him, to honor him, to comfort him, and to keep him in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, for as long as you both shall live?"
"I do," said Zelda.
"Then, with the authority vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife before the Goddess Hylia and the kingdom of Hyrule. You may seal this union with a kiss to symbolize your love and devotion."
The guests erupted in cheers and applause as the couple sealed their vows with a tender kiss, the sunlight casting a radiant glow around them.
"I love you so much!" whispered Zelda after their kiss ended.
"No more than I love you, sweetheart," whispered Royce back.
As the newlyweds turned to face their subjects, hand in hand, Gavin declared, "It is my great honor to present to you, Queen Zelda and King Royce, united in love and in service to the kingdom of Hyrule!"
At that, the castle bells rang out to notify everyone the wedding had occurred. The Sanctum erupted again in joyous applause, the sounds of laughter and cheers echoing through the castle and into the streets beyond, where the people of Hyrule joined in the jubilation, their hearts filled with hope for a bright future under the guidance of their beloved Queen and her new King.
As planned, Zelda and Royce left the Sanctum, made their way to a balcony overlooking the castle grounds, and then waved to the people below who were cheering and applauding.
Meanwhile, Mipha finally reunited with her family.
"The ceremony went perfectly," said Link. "And you look fantastic, sweetheart."
Unlike her normal silver headdress, Mipha wore a golden headdress today with a large sapphire at the center. Around her neck, she wore a matching gold necklace with a large, blue pendant that matched the gemstone in her headdress. She also wore gold bracers on her upper arms.
"Yes, Mom, you should wear that jewelry more often," said Raypha.
"You're saying it's the jewelry that makes me look good?" laughed Mipha. "But this jewelry is reserved for special occasions. I thought Zelda looked lovely and very happy. I helped her overcome her nervousness again this morning and some dwelling on the past. But she was very well composed when the ceremony started."
"Um, I think we should follow everyone to the dining hall for the reception," said Link. "That should be fun! And full of good food!"
"And we can even dance, sweetheart," said Mipha as she took his hand. "Do you remember your Gerudo lessons, Linka?"
"I'm sure they will come back to me," laughed Link.
With that, they followed everyone else as they headed to the main dining hall for the reception.