Chapter 26 - Gerudo Desert Trip - Part Five
Summary: Mipha, Link, Sidon, Raypha, Tidon, Gaddison, and Rivan continue their trip to the Gerudo Desert.
Link groaned and turned in his sleep as he relived an event in his dreams.
The sun had just risen over the Gerudo desert, and tall palm trees cast long shadows across the dry sand. Link stood up and yawned, stretched, then stamped out the remaining embers of the small campfire he had lit to keep warm. He had been forced to camp behind the Kara Kara Bazaar inn, leaning against the wall, and though the oasis moderated the temperature somewhat, the desert night was cold. He was Princess Zelda's appointed knight on this trip, though much against her wishes. Zelda made no secret that she resented his company wherever they went. "Not in need of an escort," she had told him by the Ancient Columns. And keeping track of her when he could not follow her into Gerudo Town made his job harder. So, he tried to keep an eye on her without getting in her way and thus avoiding another confrontation.
As he waited for Princess Zelda to wake, despite her ill-treatment, he couldn't help but admire her. She was a smart and self-reliant individual with a deep passion for science. The discovery of ancient Sheikah technology had seized her imagination, and she could not get enough of it. She carried her beloved Sheikah Slate everywhere and was constantly snapping pictures. And like him, she was tenacious, someone who worked hard and never gave up.
But he also had to admit that guarding Her Highness was no easy task. His appointment as her knight companion differed from what people, including himself, may have expected. He remembered his fellow guards congratulating him and doing a little teasing, too, after he ran into them a short time after his appointment.
"Nice going on the promotion, Link! Now you get to rub shoulders with royalty!" said Logan as he patted him on the back. "You made a lot of us jealous, didn't he, Hadon?"
"Maybe Link can literally rub shoulders with Her Highness soon now," laughed Hadon. "She's beautiful and about the same age. Perhaps he will invite us to a royal wedding before long, where we will see him become prince Link, right Logan?"
"Are you guys kidding?" said Link. "From the little I've dealt with Her Highness so far, it seems she can't stand the sight of me and would rather be on her own. I'm caught between my duty to His Majesty and pleasing his daughter."
Link finished stamping out the campfire and was about to sit down again and resume waiting for Zelda to emerge from the inn when something caught his eye.
"For the love of Hylia!" Link exclaimed in alarm and instantly berated himself for not keeping better watch.
He could see Zelda making her way across the desert, apparently having snuck out of the inn without him seeing her. And he could also make out something else she hadn't seen yet: three Yiga Clan warriors were pursuing her, one from behind and two moving to outflank her on either side. All three held Vicious Sickle weapons, ready to draw royal blood. Link began to run as fast as he could. And as he did so, he saw that Zelda finally noticed the danger behind her and began running too.
Link used all his energy to reach Zelda in time. And fortunately, the Yiga Clan's cruelty worked to his advantage. They enjoyed seeing the terror in their victim's eyes before ending their life and would sometimes even announce their intent to kill before striking. Rather than attack the Princess at once, their enemy approached slowly with his sickle weapon in hand, enjoying the sight of his victim lying helpless between the three of them. Barely in time, he caught up with the Yiga warrior behind her and finished him off as he was about to strike. Then he confronted the other two. They could read the menace in his eyes, perhaps sensed the power of his legendary blade, and saw what became of their comrade. They thought better of attacking him and fled. Then he put away his sword and turned to Zelda. And for the first time, he saw some admiration and appreciation in her eyes.
Link jerked awake to shouts of "Vasaaq" and "Sarqso" as the Kara Kara Bazaar market sprang to life, its merchants hawking their wares to passersby. He opened his eyes to find himself floating in the large pool of water at the center of the oasis and squinted at the bright sunlight peeking over Spectacle Rock to the east.
Then he heard a voice next to him.
"Good morning, sweetheart, you're finally awake," said Mipha as she caressed his cheek. "Or should I say Sav'otta, like the Gerudo women in your life?"
"Good morning, sweetheart, and very funny," said Link as he turned to her, and they kissed.
"Are you okay? You were turning in your sleep a bit just now and awoke rather suddenly," said Mipha.
"Um, yes, I had a dream about something stressful that happened here not too long ago, though it ended well," said Link. "But I must have been exhausted to sleep so long. Is everyone okay?"
"Yes, fine. The Sidon and the children are already up and exploring the marketplace with Gaddison and Rivan," said Mipha.
"We should get up, too. The Gerudo will want to escort you to their city before the desert grows too hot."
"Says the person who slept the latest!" laughed Mipha. "Come on, then, let's go."
Mipha took Link's hand, and they made their way out of the water, bought some food for breakfast at a nearby stall, then found the others on the far side of the bazaar, checking what vendors had to offer. After exchanging good mornings, they discussed their plans.
"As I mentioned before, we will need to split up today," said Link. "Mom, Raypha, and Gaddison can visit Gerudo Town, which is well worth doing. However, the rest of us must find something else to do, as the Gerudo have a longstanding law against admitting males to their village. And I hope everyone had a good breakfast, as lunch for some of us might be a bit late."
"I wouldn't mind doing more Sand Seal surfing," said Tidon. "It was fun!"
"Me either," said Sidon.
"I'm sure we will need to take Sand Seals wherever we go," said Link. "But Raypha and Tidon, let's not forget this trip is intended to be educational, and you should be thinking about what you will write about in your essay."
"And Sidon, Father will be happier if you can tell him what you learned," said Mipha.
"I understand, Sis," said Sidon. "Just looking for some fun in the process."
Almost as if on cue, Captain Arana and one of the guards from last night, Banda, approached them.
"Savotta! I hope you all slept well," said Arana.
"I certainly did," said Link. "I think everyone else did as well."
"Excellent! Chief Ryla would like to join all of you for dinner here tonight. In the meantime, if you are ready, Velda and I will accompany Princess Mipha, Raypha, and, if you wish, your guard Gaddison back to Gerudo Town. Lieutenant Banda and Dorna can escort the rest of your party to wherever they wish. Velda and Dorna are waiting just outside the bazaar with Sand Seals for everyone."
"Thank you, Captain," said Mipha. "We look forward to visiting your town and learning more about your people. As my husband was just now reminding our children, the purpose of our trip is educational and not just for them. It can benefit all of us to see more of the beautiful land of Hyrule and learn about its people and culture. So, that should guide our activities."
"Then perhaps while you and your daughter visit Gerudo Town, Princess Mipha, I suggest the others take a Sand Seal trip past the giant skeletons of the Palu Wasteland and then onward to the statues of the seven heroines at the East Gerudo Ruins. But they can discuss their plans with Lieutenant Banda. Now, Princess, I recommend we leave immediately before the sun grows too strong. I can only try to imagine how difficult our hot and dry climate must be for an aquatic race."
"Enjoy your visit," said Link to Mipha and Raypha. "I look forward to reading about your experiences in your essay, Raypha."
"Of course, Dad," said Raypha. "I'll be sure to provide a detailed description of all the Gerudo women we meet."
Mipha burst out laughing.
"Speaking of which, are there any ex-girlfriends you want us to say hello to for you, sweetheart?" said Mipha.
"Now, are you two both ganging up on me?" laughed Link. "No, I don't have any ex-girlfriends there. They all thought I was too scrawny. But say hello to Aspa for Linka if you see her."
"Who is this Linka person Dad keeps mentioning, Mom?" whispered Raypha.
"I'll explain later," laughed Mipha.
Then Mipha, Raypha, and Gaddison accompanied Captain Arana as they walked to the southern end of the bazaar where Velda and Dorna were waiting.
"Savotta!" said Velda as she greeted the party. "Here, each of you can take a shield and hold the reins of your Sand Seal. Please follow Captain Arana, who will lead while I bring up the rear. Our destination is to the southwest and not far."
After taking a shield, everyone took hold of a Sand Seal's reins and were soon on their way. As they left the vicinity of the bazaar and glided over the desert sand, the first sensation was the heat. The water at the oasis moderated the temperature somewhat, sheltering people there from extremes. But out here in the open, there was no such relief. Instead, the sun beat down from a clear blue sky, creating a hazy mirage effect in places. As for the desert itself, sand stretched as far as the eye could see, dotted with rocky outcroppings and the occasional desert foliage.
"I know conditions are harsh, but I hope you will come to see the beauty of the desert," said Arana as they rode together. "The sand shifts with the wind, creating unique and beautiful patterns."
"I suppose one could imagine sand dunes as being like waves on a lake," said Raypha.
They passed several green cacti bearing ripe red Voltfruit at their tips and the occasional shrub of Hydromelons. But everyone was happy when they finally arrived at the entrance to Gerudo Town.
"You may leave the Sand Seals here," said Arana. "They are tame and will be returned to their pen. Now, I know Chief Ryla was eager to welcome you, so please follow me."
Upon entering Gerudo Town for the first time, Raypha and Gaddison were struck at once by its unique architecture and layout. The town was built into a large canyon with tall stone walls on either side. The buildings were made of sandstone and decorated with intricate carvings and textiles, and its streets were lined with market stalls and shops selling various goods. Arana led the party directly to the Chief's residence.
"I am sure you will have time to explore the town further after the Chief welcomes you," said Arana. "I will leave you here, and the guards on duty will escort you in. I will also be available later to accompany you back to the Kara Kara Bazaar."
"Sarqso, Captain," said Mipha.
One of the guards at the entrance led Mipha, Raypha, and Gaddison inside. And as they entered the structure, they could see Gerudo Chief, Ryla, and her second in command, Dendra, by her side.
Ryla at once rose to greet them.
"Princess Mipha! Sav'aaq and Vasaaq!" said Ryla. "It seems long since last we met at Queen Zelda's coronation. I am happy you undertook the long journey here to visit us."
"Sarqso, Chief Rayla," said Mipha. "I appreciate your hospitality. But, first, let me introduce my daughter Raypha, and our guard, Gaddison."
"Princess Raypha and Gaddison, I am pleased to meet you," said Ryla. "Come, you must all be tired and thirsty from your arduous journey here. Please sit down and join me for some refreshments and lunch. Hydromelons and their juice are the most beneficial for quenching thirst. I know it cannot be easy for a Zora to visit us. I suspect you must think our desert home horrible, lacking in water as it does."
"Travel here is certainly challenging for us, but we can manage with periodic time spent in water," said Mipha. "And we appreciate the desert has a beauty all its own."
"Now, tell me all about your family, starting with your lovely daughter here," said Ryla. "I look forward to meeting your son this evening and renewing my acquaintance with your husband."
Meanwhile, at the Kara Kara Bazaar, Link, Sidon, Tidon, and Rivan prepared to accompany Banda and Dorna on their tour of the East Gerudo Ruins. After everyone was paired with a shield and Sand Seal, they were ready to depart.
"We will be heading southeast through the Palu Wasteland and then onward to the East Gerudo Ruins," said Banda. "I'll lead, and Darna will bring up the rear. There is unlikely to be any danger, but let us all stay together just in case."
"Are there any more of those Lizalfos things around? I'm just wondering if I should be on the lookout since I'm supposed to help keep us safe," said Sidon.
Banda glanced at Link, who nodded, and Banda understood.
"It's always possible, though unlikely, one would try to attack a whole group of us," said Banda. "But some species can burrow quickly through sand, so if you see anything suspicious, please cry out."
"Will do," nodded Sidon.
The journey took them past a mixture of desert terrain, including occasional rock formations.
"What are those crumbled walls?" asked Tidon.
"An ancient Gerudo settlement, long since abandoned," said Banda. "Our people have deep roots here and once were more numerous. Unfortunately, these crumbling walls are all that remain of this outpost."
Link wondered if their biology contributed to their lower population, as they were prone to bear only female offspring, who were then forced to search Hyrule for a husband.
They continued on, Sidon and Tidon both laughing as they enjoyed riding up and down the dunes until they approached a massive skeleton partially buried in the sand.
"This is huge!" exclaimed Tidon, amazed by its enormous size.
"Are any of these creatures still alive?" asked Sidon.
"There are occasional sightings of a creature of almost the same size called a Molduga," said Dorna. "But Molduga are very territorial and do not wander from their territory. In any case, these skeletons are much older and are believed to belong to an extinct species."
"There are several similar skeletons scattered about the desert," said Banda. "The finest and best preserved is far to the southwest. They all indicate the long and complex history of our desert. Legend has it that many ages ago, this area was once part of the sea, and these are the remains of large aquatic creatures. I imagine you would have found visiting here more to your liking back then."
"Not me!" laughed Link. "But I'm sure the rest of my family would. There are other such skeletons in Hyrule, though. Some of these leviathan species may even have had the power of flight. In any case, as Darna said, they all went extinct long ago."
They spent several minutes examining the skeleton.
"Our destination is not much further, and there is some welcome shade there," said Dorna.
"Shade sounds good," said Rivan.
They headed east, and it was not long before they passed through the natural gateway that marked the entrance to the East Gerudo Ruins, then paused to take in the sights.
"Oh! Wow!" exclaimed Sidon, Tidon, and Rivan at once as they beheld the cluster of seven massive statues that rose up from the desert floor, encircling and towering over them.
Each statue faced toward the center and held a giant stone sword in front of them, along with a pedestal and basin extending from the blade's end. The statues inspired reverence and awe as if these giant beings were immensely powerful and might even come alive. The deep silence of the location only heightened these sensations.
"I will let Dorna explain this location to you," said Banda. "She has studied more of our people's history than me."
"I believe my scholarship was one reason Captain Arana selected me for this mission," laughed Dorna. "Please follow me as I explain what we know. I only wish we knew more."
They followed Dorna until she stood directly in front of one of the statues.
"These are the statues of the legendary Seven Heroines of the Gerudo," said Dorna. "The heroines are honored as the divine protectors of our people, and it is said that at one time, it was common for people to make pilgrimages here seeking their blessing. So let us look at each statue in turn."
They slowly walked around the enclosure while their Sand Seals rested and munched on Warm Safflina. The sacred nature of the location inspired Link to silently offer a prayer that Urbosa's spirit would rest in peace. Perhaps even now, she was sharing the Spirit Realm with these Seven Heroines.
"You can make out distinctive markings on each statue, though many are badly eroded from the wind and the sand," said Dorna. "We believe each statue originally contained intricate carvings and decorations that reflected the stories and accomplishments of each heroine. And each heroine is said to have unique powers: skill, spirit, endurance, knowledge, flight, motion, and gentleness."
They took a few moments to study each statue, admiring the craftsmanship and attention to detail, but especially the enormous amount of work it must have taken to create such massive sculptures.
"As a Zora, I can certainly admire the architectural skill of those who crafted these magnificent statues," said Rivan.
"They're even bigger than the fish sculpture from our home, which I thought was huge," said Sidon.
"Yes, building these must have been a massive undertaking, and you can still see the remains of some scaffolding that the workers must have used," said Dorna. "But now I want to call your attention to the giant orbs you see scattered about. Legend has it that when the symbols of the seven find their place, a sacred path will be revealed. Now, let me explain."
They walked over to one of the orbs, which was huge as you came closer.
"If you examine the orb, you will see it has a design that will match the design on one of the statues. So, the legend indicates that the orb must be returned to the pedestal in front of its corresponding statue. But we have not had the time or resources to attempt moving the orbs. If you check, you will find that each orb is made of solid metal and is much too heavy for even a whole group of us to lift, though I doubt we could even get a firm grip on its slippery surface. We would need to craft some special equipment to deal with it, which has not been our priority."
"It's a pity Mipha has the Sheikah Slate with her," said Link. "I'm sure we could use its power of Magnesis to levitate these orbs. Perhaps someday we can return here and assist with the quest."
They made the rounds of the enclosure, and by the time they finished, it was afternoon.
"It's been interesting soaking in the experience of visiting here," said Tidon.
"Yes, and speaking of soaking," said Link. "Perhaps we should head back to the bazaar. I think Sidon, Tidon, and Rivan will need some water time soon. And I have a pair of Ice Breath Lizalfos tails I wish to sell."
"Yes, let us go at once," said Banda. "But if you don't mind, Link, let me sell the tails for you. I can get you a better price from the merchants inside Gerudo Town. They know me there, and I am a shrewd bargainer. I can return the funds I receive to you later this evening."
"That would be fine," said Link as he handed over the tails, and both Sidon and Tidon grimaced at the sight of them. Then they rounded up the Sand Seals and at once left for the Kara Kara Bazaar.
Meanwhile, Mipha, Raypha, and Gaddison had finished lunch and their meeting with Chief Ryla.
"Now, perhaps you would like to go off and explore our town on your own," said Ryla. "People will act more natural without me there with you. So please feel free to go anywhere you wish. Then, near sunset, we can all travel back to the Kara Kara Bazaar. Perhaps we can even have a small Sand Seal race on the way."
"That would be fun, Chief Ryla," said Raypha.
"Thank you for you a delicious lunch," said Mipha. "I can't imagine where you obtained the fish!"
"Someone from the Gerudo Canyon stable supplied them this morning, and we kept them on ice from our northern ice house," laughed Ryla. "I knew you and your party would prefer it."
Mipha, Raypha, and Gaddison then took their leave and began exploring Gerudo Town.
"We have all afternoon, so there should be time to visit most locations," said Mipha. "We can start here in the town center."
Besides being accomplished warriors, the Gerudo were also known as skilled merchants. Throughout the town, many Gerudo women were going about their daily business, some soldiers training with weapons, others working in shops, resting, or conversing with each other.
A Gerudo woman standing before the Oasis Hotel called out as they neared.
"Vasaaq! Forgive me, but I'm sure I remember you," she said to Mipha. "We don't get Zora visitors, so it would be hard to forget."
"Yes, I was here before," said Mipha.
"And you had a cute Hylian Vai for company, as I recall."
"Yes, that's right. She is not with me now. But I know she is doing fine and very happily married to the person of her dreams if I don't say so myself," said Mipha.
"I'm glad to hear it! Finding the right person to marry can be difficult, can it not?"
"Sometimes finding them is easier than getting them to express their feelings," said Mipha.
"Also true," laughed the woman. "But, perhaps our famous spa beauty treatment helped her to find the person of her dreams. And speaking of spa treatment, are you and your party perhaps interested? I could offer you a group discount."
"Sadly, we don't have time this trip," said Mipha. "But Sarqso."
After they left and wandered to the other side of town, Raypha finally spoke up.
"Okay, Mom, what's going on? Who is your cute Hylian Vai friend who married the person of their dreams?"
"Your Dad," whispered Mipha.
"What?!"
"Your father had to disguise himself as a Vai so we could enter here together and meet with their acting leader then. He needed a female name, so I called your father Lanka, and that's the Lanka person you keep hearing about."
"Blessed Nayru!" laughed Raypha. "I would love to have seen that!"
"I don't think your Dad wants to try sneaking in here again in that outfit," laughed Mipha. "He said he had a bad experience with the guards who threw him out on his ear while trying to guard Zelda. But maybe we can talk him into modeling the outfit when we get home. Now I'm just hoping I don't run into the relationship counselor, Aspa, who offers a class your dad and I attended. It did help each of us grow closer to the one we loved, just not in the way the instructor expected."
"Mom, you have to tell me all about this!" said Raypha. "I feel like you're leaving out the best parts of your past visit."
"When we get home, sweetheart," laughed Mipha. "The less said about it here, the better. And it will be more fun discussing it with your Dad present. So let's look at the rest of the shops while we have time."
As promised, it was close to sunset when Captain Arana and Velda escorted Mipha, Lapha, and Gaddison to the Sand Seal race starting line, where Rayla and one of her guards were waiting.
"We won't follow the race course but just head straight for the bazaar," said Rayla. "This is our most popular form of entertainment, and it would be a shame for you to leave without experiencing it. Perhaps I should give all of you a headstart? I have had a good deal of experience with racing when growing up, though not as much lately, of course."
"No, that is unnecessary, Chief Ryla," said Mipha. "We are all good sports and graceful losers."
"Give us a moment to make sure the path is clear, Chief," said Arana, who nodded to Velda, and then both went on ahead. After a few moments, they saw a wave from Arana, indicating all was well. Then the rest of the group lined up at the starting line, and one of the guards signaled the race to begin. It was great fun, the speed and agility of the Sand Seal making navigation easy, and the sand feeling smooth as they glided over it.
"Reminds me of shield surfing near Rito Village," said Raypha as she maneuvered her Sand Seal to keep on track.
Rayla easily won the race, but it was a close second between Mipha and Gaddison, Mipha edging her out, with Raypha finishing a not-too-distant fourth. Everyone was laughing when they reached the perimeter of the bazaar and released their Sand Seals.
"Great fun, thank you, Chief Ryla," said Mipha, and the others agreed.
Captain Arana and Velda had followed them and arrived a moment later.
"I see Link and the rest of your party floating in the water, Princess Mipha," said Arana as she pointed.
"Something perhaps we should all do as well if there is time," said Mipha.
"Yes, of course," said Ryla. "We need some time to set up the banquet I planned. Then we will summon you when all is ready."
Mipha, Lapha, and Gaddison headed at once to the water.
"Ahh!" sighed Gaddison as she swam over to Rivan. "There's nothing like water!"
Raypha swam over to talk with Tidon and share experiences while Mipha first checked on Sidon, and then joined Link.
"You're being a Zora today? Chilling out in the water?" said Mipha after they exchanged a kiss.
"It feels very refreshing after a day in the sun," said Link. "How was your day?"
"Very interesting," laughed Mipha. "I did not run into Aspa, but the Gerudo outside the Hotel Oasis recognized me."
"How could she not?" laughed Link.
"She asked about you, and I told her you were doing fine, very happily married," said Mipha.
"As are you, I hope," laughed Link, then they kissed again.
After about an hour, Arana came to get them.
"Chief Ryla has arranged a small banquet inside the inn," said Arana. "Please follow me."
"A small banquet?" laughed Link as he entered the inn and saw the vast number of different dishes of food laid out. The air was filled with the aroma of spicy and savory fruits and meats, as well as fresh fish.
"Vassaq!" said Ryla. "I hope you will find something appetizing among all this variety of dishes."
"Let me introduce my brother, Sidon, our son, Tidon, and our guard, Rivan, Chief Ryla," said Mipha. "You already know my husband, Link, of course."
"Vasaaq! I am glad to see you again, Link, and happy to meet you, Sidon, Tidon, and Rivan," said Ryla. "I hope you will all leave with fond memories of your visit."
"It has been very instructive, Chief Ryla," said Tidon.
"The statues of the Seven Heroines were awesome," said Sidon.
"Now, let us enjoy a meal together," said Ryla. "It is buffet style, so please help yourself to whatever you like."
"As for the food, it all looks delicious to me, Chief Ryla," said Link. "I am sorely tempted to try every dish!"
"Now tell me about your recent travel and experiences," said Ryla.
Mipha and Link shared some of the events in their lives, and Ryla listened intently, especially about their experiences with Zelda.
"I am glad to hear Queen Zelda is doing better," said Ryla. "She was the favorite of our great Chief, aunt Urbosa, who treated her like a daughter. My aunt would want Zelda to move on from all that happened and live a happy life. I will pray that she does so."
Finally, Mipha and Link closed, explaining how they hoped this trip would be educational for Sidon and their children.
"Now I have interrupted your meal with too many questions," said Ryla. "Please eat while I perhaps aid in everyone's education by discussing the history and culture of my people."
Ryla shared stories and legends about the Gerudo people, some of which had been passed down through generations. She was a skilled storyteller, and everyone was captivated by her narration. You could also sense the immense pride Ryla had for her people and their heritage. By the time she was finished, it was already late, and everyone had eaten more than their fill.
"Thank you, Chief Ryla, that was most instructive," said Mipha.
"I am always happy to talk about my people and appreciate such an attentive audience," said Ryla. "But I understand your long journey home begins tomorrow, and I do not wish to keep you up too late. You also should not need to worry about your safety. Therefore, I have asked Captain Arana and her squad to accompany you across the Gerudo Highlands, as I do not want you to encounter any more roaming Lizalfos."
"Sarqso, Chief Ryla," said Link.
"And now, before I say Sav'orr and Sav'orq, I have something for each of you to remind you of your visit," said Ryla as she signaled to one of the guards. "I hope you will find these gifts useful as well as attractive. Our famous Starlight Memories Jewelry shop made them."
Each of the Zoras was presented with a Topaz Circlet to offer some protection from electricity, and Link was given a pair of Topaz earrings which did the same thing.
"These are indeed beautiful, Chief Ryla, and very useful for us Zoras," said Mipha. "Sarqso on behalf of all of us."
"Sarqso, Chief Ryla, these are perfect," said Link.
"Yes, Sarqso," said Sidon, Raypha, Tidon, Gaddison, and Rivan.
"It warms my heart to hear you all speaking our language," laughed Ryla. "And now I should go. Safe travels tomorrow and always."
Ryla left, and Lieutenant Banda came over to Link.
"Link, here are the funds from the sale of the Lizalfos tails," said Banda. "I know I got a good price when the merchant complained so much at the end. But I know she will easily sell them for more. These tails are quite rare now."
"Sarqso, I appreciate it," said Link. "I hope you are not offended, but may I offer you a commission?"
"Sarqso, no, that is unnecessary," said Banda. "I know the merchant well, and despite all her grumbling, she knows she received some valuable merchandise. So she will reward me when the items sell. And now I will also bid you Sav'orr until tomorrow morning when we will escort you and your party back to the Faron Sea."
Everyone returned to the water at the center of the bazaar and prepared to settle in for the night. Mipha and Link cuddled together in the water.
"Aside from the educational aspects of the trip and the emotional memories it brought back for me and us," said Link. "It also made me realize how much I love our home. Our domain is still the most beautiful place in all of Hyrule to live."
"Is that why you married me? So you could live there rent-free?"
"Very funny," said Link. "Well, I admit it didn't hurt. It's a nice perk."
"But I'm glad you love living there," said Mipha as she pulled him close. "Because you're stuck with me forever now. And I have no intention of leaving."
"I couldn't wish for anything better," laughed Link. "I love you!"
"I love you, too," said Mipha. "No bad dreams tonight?"
"I'll dream about you, sweetheart," said Link. "That way, it won't matter when I wake up. I'll still be living my dream."
"So sweet, dearest," said Mipha as she caressed his cheek with the back of her hand, careful about getting too close with her nails. "Does visiting the Gerudo area bring out this romantic side of you?"
"No, missing you all day does, sweetheart," said Link.
"I missed you too," said Mipha.
Then they kissed again and soon fell asleep in each other's arms.