Chapter 40 - Normalcy
Summary: Zelda reflects upon the normalcy in her life and worries about what using her power might do. Robbie finds his research notes out of place at the Royal Ancient Tech Lab and suspects an intruder. During a family swim back home from Hyrule Castle, Raypha and Tidon bump into two classmates.
It was evening in Hyrule Castle, and Zelda's footsteps echoed through the silent hallway as she walked from the family dining room to her bedroom after a lovely dinner with Link, Mipha, and their children. Zelda nodded goodnight to the guards stationed along the way, feeling reassured by their presence. She also took comfort in Link's soothing words, which he had shared during their private time together, replaying them in her mind. They reminded her she could depend on Mipha and him, two courageous and resilient champions, should the need for their skills ever arise.
But Link had also reminded her of something else: that she, too, was not powerless.
For her sanity, Zelda had worked hard to suppress memories of the fateful day she lost her kingdom, her father, and almost everyone else she cared for. But the tragedy that day, her seventeenth birthday, had been the catalyst for finally awakening the long-sought-after power she inherited from the Goddess Hylia.
Since then, she hadn't needed to tap into the power that still lay dormant within her. And she hoped she would never have to use it again - not just for Hyrule's sake, but also for hers. It made her feel otherworldly as if she were some mystical being with powers beyond her understanding. Except for Link, who understood it all, she wondered if others who saw her in that state could ever treat her normally afterward. Would they not always have a sense of awe or even fear in their minds at what she could do? She enjoyed being treated like a regular Hylian woman by Royce and everyone else around her and didn't want to lose that.
After entering her bedroom, Zelda changed into nightclothes before opening the window facing west to let in some fresh air. The sky was clear and filled with the sounds of insects chirping and the occasional hoot of a night bird. It was a peaceful, moonless night compared to the stormy weather the prior evening when rain and wind had pounded against the windows so hard that she feared they would leak.
Looking across the castle moat and beyond the trees, she could see two neighboring buildings - the Royal Ancient Tech Lab and the Royal Academy. Some lights were still on in both buildings. She knew Robby had returned to the lab to continue his work while Royce and other instructors were busy grading exams or working on academic papers. She had briefly considered visiting Royce after dinner for a goodnight kiss but decided against it. It would disrupt his concentration and require assembling a Royal Guard entourage for protection on short notice. Instead, she blew a kiss in his direction before closing the window and settling into bed for the night.
Meanwhile, for once, Robbie had the entire laboratory to himself and relished its peacefulness. Purah had gone out to dinner in Castle Town with her sister Impa and had not yet returned, leaving him alone with her collection of lizards safely housed in their cages. Unlike other distractions in the lab, the quiet creatures did not disrupt his thoughts and allowed him to focus on his work.
But as he returned alone to the lab earlier that day, he couldn't shake off the feeling that something was off. While Purah tended to be messy and scattered, he was organized and precise. So when he noticed a few pages of his notes were slightly out of place, it immediately caught his attention. Did Purah go through his research? It wasn't like her to do that. If she cared at all, she usually asked him about his progress rather than snooping around his notes. He couldn't help but recall an incident when he was still her assistant before the Calamity.
"Master Robbie, now I want you to explain your experiment and how it works," Purah had said one day.
"I already wrote everything down in my report for you, Dr. Purah," Robbie replied.
"I don't want to read a report! I hate reading reports! Explain it to me in simple terms," Purah insisted. "If you can't explain it to me, how will you ever explain it to His Majesty or Princess Zelda? You need to be able to communicate your research clearly if you want to serve the royal family."
So, it was doubtful that Purah had read his notes. And that could only mean that someone else must have, someone who shouldn't have been there. Just the thought of it made Robbie's hair stand up on end. It seemed that they were being spied on. But before raising any alarm, Robbie needed to confirm that he hadn't simply been careless in organizing his notes last time because he felt rushed. Purah sometimes only told him of an upcoming appointment at the last minute. To test this theory, he would purposely leave one page slightly askew and check it the next time he returned to the lab. But now it was time to get back to translating and see if he could uncover any new information.
Two hours later, the lab door burst open, and Robbie jumped up in surprise. He was relieved when he saw it was just Purah.
"You don't need to rise when I enter," teased Purah. "Did you think I was the Queen?"
"No, I'm just really nervous," admitted Robbie. "How was dinner?"
"Good. We discussed what's happening in Kakariko Village with other Sheikah we know. But our conversation ended with my sister's usual caution to avoid being reckless."
"And that's good advice. By the way, did you happen to look at my notes?"
"Why would I look at your notes? Do you think I had trouble falling asleep?" joked Purah. "Of course not! Why do you ask?"
"I didn't think so, but I wanted to make sure. It seems like someone has been tampering with my notes, though. They were arranged slightly differently than how I remember leaving them.
"So, you think we had an intruder?"
"It's a possibility - I can't be certain," said Robbie.
"Maybe we should be careful about locking the door more often. Or should we request that guards be stationed here?" suggested Purah.
"Those are excellent suggestions, Dr. Purah, but I worry that any change in our routine would tip off an intruder that we were aware of their existence, ruining any chance of catching them," said Robbie. "Plus, I want to be sure before taking action."
"Well, whatever you think is best," replied Purah. "Now I need to feed my lizards and ensure they're doing well."
Meanwhile, back at the castle, Mipha thanked the guard who escorted her, Raypha, and Tidon back to their room, then closed the door.
"I'm exhausted," sighed Tidon as he and his sister hugged Mipha goodnight and then slid into the welcoming water of the slumber pool.
Tidon quickly drifted off to sleep, his gills regulating his breathing. But Raypha immediately afterward spoke up as if something weighed on her mind.
"Mom, can I ask you something?" Raypha's voice trembled with a mix of curiosity and concern.
"Of course, sweetheart. What is it?"
Raypha hesitated before finally saying, "I hope you don't mind my asking, but… aren't you jealous of Dad being alone with Aunt Zelda?"
Mipha smiled gently, admiring her daughter's maturity and understanding. "What made you think of that, sweetheart?"
"Well, because I remember how upset you were when Dad spent time with Miss Kodah. So… I couldn't help but wonder what was different this time … and it worried me."
"Don't worry, sweetheart. I'm not upset about your father spending time with Zelda."
A sigh of relief escaped Raypha's lips. "That makes me feel better," she murmured.
Mipha's gaze drifted away, memories flooding her mind as she sought to explain the complexities of her emotions. "It's just different, though it may be hard to put into words," she began.
"The Kodah part is relatively simple to explain," Mipha continued. "Kodah used to take your father to dance parties that I couldn't attend. She strove to be with him socially and competed with me for your Dad's affection. I was very jealous of her."
Mipha paused for a moment, then continued.
"With Zelda, it's more complicated," Mipha mused, her eyes searching for the right words to convey her thoughts. "I think Zelda developed an interest in your father after he served as her appointed knight for a while. I must admit, I was jealous back then. Your dad spent so much time with her, traveling with her and protecting her, and I couldn't help but worry they might grow close."
"But," Mipha emphasized, her voice growing, "I've come to understand their connection isn't romantic. It's something deeper, built on trust, respect, and shared experiences. I know they have strong feelings for each other, but it's not the kind of love that would threaten what your father and I share."
Mipha paused, hoping her explanation had shed some light on the matter for Raypha. "I hope that makes some sense, sweetheart. But please remember that emotions aren't always entirely logical. Some of what I feel is just that - feelings."
As Mipha turned her attention back to Raypha, she found her daughter already fast asleep. A tender smile graced her lips as she wondered how much of her explanation had reached her.
A short time later, Link returned to their room and found Raypha and Tidon fast asleep in the slumber pool. Mipha was standing by the window but turned to him when he entered.
"They must have been exhausted from the castle tour," whispered Link, gesturing towards the sleeping children.
"Yes, they fell asleep quickly and will sleep soundly through the night," replied Mipha. "How did your private meeting with Zelda go? It usually stirs up strong emotions for you."
"I'm okay," said Link. "It went pretty well, I think. She's worried about the future, so I reminded her that we are here for her and she is not powerless. She asked if we could visit more often, and I agreed."
"That's good," said Mipha. "Are you coming to bed before you get too tired?"
"Are you planning to sleep on land tonight?" laughed Link.
"I got plenty of water time in during our journey here. Tonight, I'll play being a Hylian. We can be together like we used to at the bed by East Reservoir Lake. Remember?" asked Mipha with a smile.
"How could I forget?" chuckled Link. "Although I always worried Ruta was watching us."
"I told her to close her eyes," giggled Mipha.
"Just remember to breathe, sweetheart. You're out of your natural element tonight," teased Link.
"Just remember to leave me breathless, my love, and I won't have to worry about it," countered Mipha as they embraced and laughed together.
The following morning, before returning home, Mipha, Link, Raypha, and Tidon joined Royce and Zelda for breakfast. Mipha, Raypha, and Tidon enjoyed fresh fish, while Zelda, Royce, and Link had vegetable omelets.
"It's good to see you again, Royce," said Link as they shook hands. "I gather you were busy grading exams last night?"
"Yes, I always aim to grade each paper consistently," replied Royce. "After I finish, I go over them all again, sometimes multiple times. It may take extra time, but it's the fairest approach I can take. I turned in all the grades just before coming here for breakfast."
"That's commendable," said Link.
"I know I've mentioned this before, but perhaps when Raypha and Tidon are older, they could attend the academy here," suggested Zelda, her voice filled with anticipation. "The instructors there are renowned for their expertise - and I might even get to see them more often."
"Maybe," Mipha replied thoughtfully. "Ultimately, it will depend on their interests and aspirations."
"If we studied here, where would we live?" Tidon asked.
"We have well-appointed rooms for students in the academy building," assured Royce.
"And we can have slumber pools installed for you," added Zelda. "You know I would do my best to make you feel comfortable and at home."
"It's something to think about when the time comes," Link said softly. "But right now, I would miss my dear children too much."
Raypha couldn't resist a mischievous tease, her eyes sparkling with playful delight. "See Ti? I told you Dad can be sweet too," she remarked.
"Just because I said Mom was sweet, I never meant that Dad wasn't," Tidon exclaimed, his tone indignant. "Are you trying to get me in trouble, Ray?"
"Now, let's remember where we are and calm down, both of you," Mipha gently admonished. Then, turning to Zelda, she added, "Are you sure, Zelda, you really want them here more often? They can be quite demanding."
Zelda laughed. "Of course I do," she reassured, her voice warm and affectionate. "I think they're both darlings. I'm sorry you have to leave so soon."
"The children have school tomorrow, and I need to prepare for tomorrow's council meeting to help my father," Mipha explained. "But thank you for having us. We all had a marvelous time."
"Thank you for coming," Zelda said sincerely. "Please give my best wishes to your father. As I've mentioned, my father often spoke highly of him."
"I will," promised Mipha. "And he wanted me to compliment you on how remarkably you have filled the role of Hyrule's Queen."
"And it was good seeing you again and meeting your children," said Royce.
The family made their way out of the castle and headed toward the eastern shore of the moat.
"Let's take the moat to the Hylia River since it flows southward, and that will be easier on your father," suggested Mipha. "We can swim as far as the Floret Sandbar, then cross by land to the Lanayru Wetlands and onward to the Zora River."
"Got it, Mom," Tidon replied.
Raypha's voice resonated with eagerness as they reached the water's edge and gracefully dove in. "Let's race, Ti!" she exclaimed. "We don't have to impress anyone when we get home!"
"You're on!" Tidon shouted back, his competitive spirit ignited. "And I'm still mad at you for what you said."
A mischievous laughter escaped Raypha's lips as she stuck her tongue out at her brother. "I'm not scared," she taunted playfully. "You have to catch me first!"
Chuckling softly, Mipha shook her head at their sibling rivalry before taking Link's hand.
"Swimming will be good exercise after that omelet, so don't count on me pulling you," she remarked, guiding him toward the water's edge.
"I thought I got plenty of exercise last night," Link groaned good-naturedly.
"You did, but that was yesterday," Mipha chuckled."Don't worry. I'll help you when the current flows against us so you don't strain any muscles again."
"Alright," Link laughed. And with that, they both dove into the water.
The current became their ally as they swam through the water, propelling them southeast toward the Boneyard Bridge, where the moat met the Hylia River. Their journey continued, taking them past the Orsedd Bridge as a gentle rain began to fall. The rhythmic pitter-patter of the rain accompanied them as they passed the Rebonae Bridge and the aptly named Wetland Stable. There, amidst the tranquil surroundings, Raypha and Tidon heard a familiar cry of friendly voices from the shore.
"Hey! Tidon! Raypha!"
Raypha turned to Tidon, their bodies treading water effortlessly. "It's Landon and his sister Fara," Raypha explained, her voice carrying a mix of surprise and delight.
"Hey! What brings you here?" Raypha shouted back.
"We and our parents are returning from Castle Town," Landon replied. "What about you?"
"We're returning from a visit to Hyrule Castle," Tidon answered, his voice tinged with pride. "Can we swim together?"
"We'd like that. Let me ask our parents after I know it's okay with yours," Fara said. "Where are they?"
"Um, they should be here soon," Tidon replied hesitantly. "Our Dad… well, he doesn't swim as fast."
Mipha and Link arrived a few moments later, and Tidon quickly explained the situation.
"These are Fara and Landon, two of our classmates in math class," Tidon introduced. "We were hoping we could swim with them."
"It's fine with us if it's okay with their parents," Mipha replied.
Fara left to check with their parents, Fala and Lanon, who returned with her.
"Good day, Lady Mipha and Link," said Lanon. "What a nice surprise to run into you here. We were planning to remain here a bit longer, but if it's no trouble for you, it's fine if our children swim back to the domain with you."
"It's no trouble at all," said Mipha. "We'll make sure they're safe. It's good to see you both again. I think the last time we spoke was in Kakariko Village when you assisted our chief architect, Kandon, on Hyrule restoration work."
"Yes, that's right," said Fala. "We both love architecture, and we think our two children are also interested in it. That's one reason we're happy they get such a good math education."
After thanks and goodbyes were exchanged, Mipha spoke to the four children.
"Now, you can play and swim on ahead; just don't get too far away from us," Mipha cautioned gently.
"Sure thing, Mom," said Raypha.
"Come on! A four-way race to the Floret Sandbar!" Tidon declared. "Then we can wait for my parents while you congratulate me."
"I didn't know the slowest racer earns any congratulations," said Raypha, making Fara and Landon laugh.
"Let's go!" said Fara.
With a resounding cheer, the race began, filling the air with laughter and splashes. Meanwhile, Link couldn't help but smile as he observed their carefree playing.
"I guess our children have classmates to play with now," Link remarked, his voice tinged with pride and nostalgia.
"Yes, and I don't want to hear any moaning about them growing up too quickly," Mipha replied softly. "Trust me - they take a long time to grow up. But we should be going if we want to stay close."
They resumed their swimming, and when they finally reconvened at the Floret Sandbar, a gentle breeze rustled through the trees on the riverbank, carrying with it the scent of blooming wildflowers. They hiked up a small hill to the east and followed the road to the shallow water of the Lanayru Wetlands until they finally reached the Zora River. As before, the children raced ahead, their laughter echoing through the air, while Mipha and Link followed closely behind, this time swimming against the current.
As they approached the Inogo Bridge, with its exquisite Luminous Stone architecture, the first Zora landmark a visitor encounters, Mipha's voice carried a sense of tradition and familiarity. "It's customary when Zora couples first return here…"
But before she could finish her sentence, Link gently pulled her into his arms, their bodies melding together in an embrace filled with love. Their lips met in a tender kiss.
"I know most Zora customs by now, sweetheart," Link said softly, his voice filled with affectionate teasing. "Even the ones you made up."
Mipha laughed. "So smart," she mused. "Now remember to honor all the rest of them, dearest."
With renewed energy, they pressed on. As the final rays of sunlight bathed the region in a golden glow, they reached the majestic waterfall at the foot of the domain, near which the four children were playing tag. A swim up it and the small waterfalls that flowed from above brought them to the plaza.
"You can all play in the plaza until Fara's and Landon's parents arrive. Then come straight home, understand?" Mipha instructed, her voice carrying a mixture of authority and warmth.
"Sure thing, Mom," Raypha replied.
"I think our dear children are going to be tired out tonight as well," said Link. "Don't you have to prepare for the council meeting tomorrow?"
"I can do it in the morning if we don't sleep late," said Mipha as she took Link's hand. "But you've been great on this trip and have gotten a lot of exercise. Come, I'll cook your fish for dinner. You must be starving after just a snack for lunch."
"Wow! Another meal cooked by a Princess," laughed Link. "You and Raypha really know how to spoil me."
"Does my cooking make it taste better?" Mipha teased.
"Everything you do makes everything better for me," said Link, squeezing her hand. "I always knew that. And I love you."
"I love you, too," said Mipha as she pulled him close for a hug and then continued, "I think some Bright-Eyed Crabs would go well with dinner. I'll snatch a couple by the shrine on the way home. They do wonders for one's stamina, sweetheart," making Link laugh.
Raypha and Tidon returned home as Mipha and Link were finishing dinner.
"That was a great time," exclaimed Tidon. "We should hang out with them more often."
"Did you both eat?" Mipha inquired.
"Yes, we grabbed some fish on our way back," replied Raypha.
"Well, make sure you both get some rest tonight. You have classes tomorrow," reminded Mipha.
"No worry! I'm even more exhausted than yesterday," chuckled Tidon as he hugged Mipha and Link goodnight before heading to his room for some much-needed rest.
When it was her turn, Raypha embraced Link first, then hugged Mipha.
"By the way, did I answer your question from last night, Ray?" Mipha inquired.
"Umm … yes, you said you were fine, Mom," replied Raypha with a yawn. Then she said goodnight and headed to her room, leaving Mipha and Link alone at the table.
"What was Raypha's question?" asked Link curiously. "If you don't mind my asking."
"She wanted to know if I was jealous of your relationship with Zelda and was worried your time alone with her would cause another incident with me, like with Kodah," answered Mipha.
"Wow, she truly is growing up," chuckled Link. "What did you tell her?"
"I told her I'm not just jealous of your relationship with Zelda…I'm envious of every moment you spend with her. And that only long, passionate lovemaking can cure me of this terrible jealousy," said Mipha mischievously.
"You didn't!" exclaimed Link, laughing. "I know you don't feel that way."
"Says the person who admits he can't read women's feelings," teased Mipha.
"Wait, you're not serious? Are you?" asked Link, with concern creeping into his voice.
"See what I mean?" giggled Mipha as she took his hand.
They both laughed as they headed to their room.
