Chapter 49 - Wedding Rehearsal
Summary: Queen Zelda and Royce's wedding rehearsal takes place at Hyrule Castle.
It was a beautiful sunny morning in Zora's Domain, and Mipha, Link, Raypha, and Tidon were finishing breakfast when the Sheikah Slate on the table began buzzing with an incoming call. Link handed the device to Mipha without even looking at it.
"Good morning, Zelda, "Mipha greeted, smiling knowingly at Link.
"Good morning, Mipha. Do you know what time you'll be arriving? I could really use your company," said Zelda, her voice tinged with anxiety.
"Calm down, Zelda. Everything will be alright," reassured Mipha. "We should be there in a few hours."
"Please come straight to my room when you arrive," requested Zelda. "I imagine your family can find things to do during our time together?"
"Yes, they'll be fine," said Mipha. "Now I must go so we can start our journey. Take a deep breath, and don't stress. I'll see you soon."
"Thank you. I can't wait for you to get here," said Zelda as they ended the call.
"Is that like her hundredth call this past month?" asked Link. "It's been very sweet of you to be so supportive. You've been a lifesaver to her all this time."
"It's what I do," joked Mipha. "But seriously, she's very anxious about the wedding and has no family or other close friends to confide in. That's why she calls me."
"I wish your healing powers worked on mental issues like nervousness," said Link.
"I wish that, too, sweetheart," added Mipha with a smile. "Just imagine all the kisses we could have shared on our journey across Hyrule if I could have cured a certain someone of his shyness."
Raypha and Tidon both joined in on the laughter while Link shook his head.
"Anyway, let's meet Sidon and get ready to leave," suggested Link.
It had been a month since Mipha and Link's visit to Hyrule Castle, and tomorrow was the day of Zelda's wedding to Royce. Zelda had invited Mipha's entire family to attend, and as part of the wedding party, Mipha was required to arrive a day early for the rehearsal that afternoon.
"Before we go, just a reminder," Mipha told Raypha and Tidon. "We can have fun at the reception afterward, but tomorrow is Zelda and Royce's special day, so let's ensure we're respectful and quiet during the ceremony. We want everything to go perfectly for the happy couple."
"Of course, Mom," Tidon replied. "We're teenagers now, not little kids anymore. We know how to behave."
"Sometimes I find little kids less troublesome than teenagers," laughed Mipha.
"Don't worry, Mom. I'll make sure Tidon behaves properly," Raypha joked.
"Very funny, Ray," Tidon said. "But I'm excited to see what a royal wedding is like. It must be really special. I wish I could have seen Mom's and Dad's."
"I think your grandfather would have been very upset with me if you had," Link laughed. "But I expect it will be a beautiful event, with a lavish feast afterward."
"Yes, let's not forget the most important part - the feast, dearest," teased Mipha. "Shall we go?"
As they made their way to the plaza to meet Sidon, "I'm surprised Father didn't accept the invitation," said Link.
"I talked to him about it," said Mipha, recalling their conversation.
"Why won't you attend, Father?" Mipha asked. "It will be fun and good for you to get out. The other rulers from different regions will all be there."
"I think weddings are for young people and families. The other rulers attending are all your and Link's generation. Plus, I've become too large to move comfortably in the castle. I'll take up too much space and get in the way of others."
"The castle is quite spacious, Father. And Medli, the Rito leader, is older than Link, as are the Sheikah attending. But I sense there is more to it than just that."
"You always know how to read my emotions, sweetheart," King Dorephan sighed with a smile. "There is one more reason. I last visited Hyrule Castle for King Rhoam's coronation years ago. By then, he and I had become friends after his visits here. Returning to the castle would bring back fond memories of him for me, and no one should be sad at a wedding."
"I can understand that," said Link as he nodded. "I would have difficulty visiting the other Divine Beasts for the same reason."
When they arrived at the plaza, they found Sidon waiting for them along with two guards, Rivan and Gaddison. After exchanging greetings, Gaddison spoke up.
"We know things are safer than ever now," she said. "But we still have orders to accompany you to ensure everything goes smoothly."
"And we get to enjoy Castle Town while you're busy with the wedding," Rivan added.
Mipha nodded understandingly and said, "I know how my father feels when his entire family travels together. Shall we go?"
The journey was uneventful, but as they arrived at Castle Town, it was clear that this was a special occasion. Vibrant banners displaying the royal emblem shook in the gentle breeze atop the castle turrets. Excited chatter and laughter could be heard from visitors eagerly anticipating the upcoming celebration. Vendors enthusiastically advertised their souvenirs and delicious dishes while musicians provided background music.
"Wow! It looks amazing!" Tidon exclaimed. "It's even better than I imagined."
"It does look wonderfully festive," added Raypha. "That means full of happiness and cheer, Tidon."
"I know what festive means, Ray," replied Tidon.
"Just remember what I told you both," said Mipha. "And don't tease your brother, Raypha. Now, I better go directly to Zelda's room to help calm her down."
"I agree," chimed in Link. "I'll hold onto the Sheikah Slate, and you can use Zelda's to communicate with us if you need anything. For now, we'll explore Castle Town."
Mipha quickly headed towards the castle entrance and climbed the stairs to Zelda's room on the upper level. As Mipha knocked on the door, she announced her presence.
"It's me, Mipha."
Zelda hurried to open the door, and they hugged each other tightly.
"Thank you for coming," said Zelda with a grateful smile as they parted. "I've never been so nervous in my entire life."
"Try to relax, and let me help however I can."
"I keep going over our preparations in my mind, worried that we may have forgotten something," admitted Zelda.
Mipha smiled and said, "Zelda, everyone adores you. Even if you did forget something, it won't matter to anyone. All your subjects want is for you to be happy."
"Thank you for saying that. By the way, how do I look? I tried a different hairstyle today. Is it alright?"
"I'm not the best person to ask about hairstyles, but you always look beautiful, Zelda, and your hair looks lovely," replied Mipha. "Don't worry so much. Weddings can be nerve-wracking, but everything will turn out fine."
"Were you nervous before your wedding?"
"Definitely!" Mipha exclaimed. "I was a bundle of nerves the day before, and I couldn't even stomach a meal. Thankfully, Alira was there to calm me down on the morning of the ceremony, and I could finally eat properly. I'll always be grateful for how much she helped me. It's totally natural to feel anxious, Zelda. But believe me, once it's done, you'll wonder why you were ever worried."
"That's comforting," replied Zelda, who paused momentarily before continuing. "The other thing is…well, at a time like this, I can't help but think that my dear father should be here to walk me down the aisle. And it's partly my fault he's not here anymore. If only I had discovered my sealing power sooner…."
"Enough of that, Zelda," interrupted Mipha as she put her arm around her. "We've been through this countless times. What happened was not your fault, and dwelling on the past won't change anything. Remembering your father is fine, but now you need to focus on the future and the incredible life you're about to share with Royce."
"You're right, of course," agreed Zelda as she wiped away some tears. "But you can see why I need your company."
Then, after a moment, she continued, "Oh, let me show you my wedding dress," as she led Mipha to her closet. "After that, we can start preparing for our rehearsal."
"It's lovely," said Mipha as she admired the dress. "And going through a rehearsal should convince you all will go well and help calm your jitters."
Meanwhile, Link, Sidon, Raypha, Tidon, Rivan, and Gaddison strolled through Castle Town, occasionally stopping to examine various wares being sold by different vendors. The aroma of cooking meat wafted through the air, causing Link's stomach to grumble, which Raypha noticed.
"You should get something to eat, Dad," said Raypha. "You didn't have lunch, but all the rest of us grabbed some fish on the way here."
"Good idea," said Link.
They were near a colorful food stall, and the vendor, a burly goron with his arms folded across his chest, called out to them good-naturedly.
"Hey there, travelers! Looking for something to fill your bellies? Try my specialty - rock brisket!" He held out a chunk of what appeared to be petrified meat.
"Thanks, it does look tasty," said Link. "But my rock-eating days are over."
As they moved on to find another food stall, Tidon spoke up.
"Did you really used to eat rocks, Dad?"
"Only with Daruk once, and I just nibbled very carefully after the rock was softened by heating and pieces could flake off," said Link. "Daruk didn't pay close attention. He was too busy laughing, talking, and chowing down a whole rock roast of his own to notice. He was a truly fun-loving guy. You just needed to watch out for his 'pats' on the back! They could send you flying!"
Link paused momentarily to reminisce about his fallen friend before returning to the present.
"I must admit, though, that the aroma of that brisket has me tempted to indulge in a nice juicy steak right now."
"How about something healthier instead, Dad?" said Raypha as she took Link's arm and led him toward another food stall.
"You know how Mom feels about you eating red meat, Dad," added Tidon.
"I guess Mom has you both looking out for me now, too," laughed Link.
"She'll be happier, which should make you happier," said Raypha, making everyone chuckle.
"It's wonderful to see your children taking such good care of you, Link," said Sidon. "They truly are my sister's children."
"Everyone in the family has been wonderful to me," said Link.
The food stall Raypha led them to bore a sign reading "Castle Kippers Shop" and, underneath in smaller letters, "Fresh Smoked Porgies." It was apparently run by a couple from Lurelin Village.
"A party of five Zora's and only one order of fish for a Hylian?" exclaimed the vendor as Link paid for his meal. "We can also serve our fish raw, and these were caught fresh this very morning."
"Unfortunately, we've already eaten," said Rivan. "But we may return later. Those porgies do look quite tempting."
"You won't regret it," said the vendor with a nod. "We get another fresh delivery close to dinner time."
After finishing his plate of smoked porgies, Link and the others continued to explore Castle Town until Tidon spoke up.
"Ray and Uncle Sidon, how about some races around the castle moat?"
"Is that okay with you, Dad?" Raypha asked. "You're in charge now with Mom gone," she added with a playful grin.
"Are we back to teasing me about that again?" laughed Link, "Okay, but stay underwater so you don't disturb the boaters."
"They won't even know we're there," laughed Raypha.
"We'll keep your children company," said Gaddison with a nod at Rivan.
"And you can adjudicate any arguments about who won," laughed Link.
"Let's go then!" said Tidon as they ran to the moat and dove in.
Link watched the group disappear into the distance, then found a seat on a nearby bench. He pulled out his Sheikah Slate and checked for messages, but there were none. Mipha was no doubt quite busy with Zelda. Then he raised his gaze to take in the bustling town square. Laughter and chatter filled the air as people bustled about their business, preparing for the upcoming festivities. Moments like these reminded Link why events like this were so important for Hyrule - they united people and brought them together in celebration and joy. It was the peaceful Hyrule it had been his goal in life to help create.
Meanwhile, the wedding party assembled for the rehearsal at the Hyrule Castle Sanctum. Zelda's soon-to-be husband, Royce, stood with his best man, whom he affectionately called "Uncle" Ryan. As Zelda and her matron of honor, Mipha entered the room, everyone bowed in respect. Then, after exchanging greetings, Zelda made her way to Royce, and they shared a warm embrace and a kiss.
"Love your hair," said Royce. "It looks beautiful - as do you."
"I'm glad you like it," said Zelda. "And you look handsome enough to marry," she added, making Royce chuckle.
Zelda wore a simple yet elegant blue flowing gown that complemented her golden hair, which was softly braided. Royce wore a blue tunic, while Ryan wore his Royal Guard uniform.
The Hyrule wedding official was a tall, distinguished elderly man named Gavin, respected and well-known amongst the kingdom's folk. He had a head of silver hair with bright blue eyes and carried himself with an air of solemnity that seemed to bring an immediate hush over the room when he began speaking.
"Ladies and Gentlemen," Gavin began in a soothing baritone. "We are gathered here today to rehearse the celebration of unity between our beloved Queen Zelda and her betrothed, Royce. In my long career as a wedding officiant, I've seen many unions - some filled with apprehension, some with joy, but each bearing the promise of a bright future. You are entering a new phase of life, bound by love, trust, and mutual respect for one another."
Zelda held Royce's hand tightly and could feel his fingers wrapping around hers—solid, warm, and reassuring.
"Queen Zelda, Royce, have you thought about what you would like your vows to be?" Gavin asked.
"Well…" started Royce nervously. "We did discuss this, and we prepared something that expresses our love for each other and our shared love for knowledge."
Zelda nodded in agreement and handed Gavin a rolled-up parchment she had carried in her sleeve. "That's right," she said. "Our bond began over our shared interest in the sciences. We want our ceremony to reflect that. We've written out our proposed vows to each other and practiced them several times."
Mipha smiled at this. It was such a Zelda thing to say and do. The young princess she and Link knew had been so enraptured by her studies, finding comfort and purpose in them when her sealing powers wouldn't awaken. And now here she was, about to marry a man who shared her very passion for science.
"Thank you, that makes things much easier," said Gavin as he took the manuscript.
Gavin then discussed the ceremony in detail—when the bride would enter, where they should stand, how they should face each other—and both Zelda and Royce listened attentively. They also practiced their vows, smiling shyly at each other when Royce stuttered over his words.
"I promise I'll get it right tomorrow," said Royce, blushing slightly in embarrassment.
"At least get the 'I do' part right, sweetheart," teased Zelda as she squeezed his hand to comfort him.
"Rest assured, dearest, the 'I do' part is the easiest," returned Royce with a sheepish smile. "I don't even have to think about it because it comes straight from my heart."
They both laughed before returning their attention to Gavin, who continued with additional instructions.
After the rehearsal was completed, Gavin wished the couple well and said he would see them the next day at the ceremony. Royce began speaking with Ryan to discuss some details, and Mipha took this opportunity to approach Zelda with a small velvet box, which she opened to reveal a delicate necklace. A blue Zora sapphire was nestled in its center, surrounded by intricate patterns of polished silver.
"This has been passed down through generations of Zora, and we believe wearing a sapphire at one's wedding will bring blessings from the Goddess Nayru," Mipha said softly. "For example, as a Zora princess, I wore a tiara adorned with sapphires on my wedding day. This necklace was my mother's and her mother's before her. I would be honored if you would wear it on your special day tomorrow. I didn't want to present this to you earlier because you had so much on your mind."
Zelda looked at Mipha, her eyes filling with tears. "Mipha… this is too special … I couldn't possibly…."
"I insist," Mipha interrupted gently. "You're family to us, Zelda."
With trembling hands, Zelda reached out to touch it. "It's beautiful, Mipha," she whispered. "Thank you. I will be honored to wear it."
Zelda paused to admire the necklace, her eyes fixating on the deep blue sapphire resting at its center. Its flawless appearance held a mysterious allure, and as she stared into it, she began to imagine herself standing before a pool of deep, pure blue water that beckoned her to dive in and feel its refreshing embrace. Then she shook her head to clear her thoughts and looked up to see Mipha smiling at her.
"It has that effect on you, too?" asked Mipha. "This gem is said to have a special power, luring those who gaze upon it into visions of water. It is why we hold it in such reverence. Some even say it was touched by Naydra during her travels, for it was not discovered in a mine but found in the waters near Mount Floria centuries ago."
"It does seem almost magical. The rich blue beauty of the gem is truly captivating," Zelda concurred. "By the way, Royce and I were wondering if you and your family would like to join us for dinner tonight at seven? Additionally, I have arranged for three rooms to be reserved for your stay: one for you and Link, one for your two children, and one for Sidon. You said your guards prefer to remain outside?"
"We would be delighted, of course," replied Mipha. "And yes, that would be perfect."
"Excellent, we will see you then," Zelda smiled gratefully at Mipha. "Thank you for coming early and helping calm my nerves. And I cannot express how touched I am by your allowing me to wear this magnificent and sacred Zora sapphire. It brings tears to my eyes just thinking about it again."
Mipha smiled. "I'm glad you agreed to wear it, Zelda, and I pray it brings you the blessings we Zoras hold dear. Now, I should go and check on my family. I'll take a leisurely walk around Castle Town until I find them."
They hugged goodbye, and then Zelda left to join Royce. Mipha left the castle and walked down the path until she reached Castle Town.
"Maybe finding my family won't be as easy as I thought," Mipha said to herself as Castle Town had grown busier and significantly more crowded since they first arrived.
She strolled past lively shops and busy food stalls, the sound of laughter and conversation filling the air along with some upbeat music played by a troupe of performers. But after about half an hour of walking, she spotted Link sitting alone on a bench.
"Did the family abandon you?" Mipha asked as she sat down next to him.
"Oh, hi," Link replied with a smile as they exchanged a brief kiss. "They're having underwater races around the castle moat. Did the rehearsal go well?"
"Yes, fine," said Mipha. "But Zelda is still a bit nervous. I tried to comfort her as best I could, but you know how she wants everything to be perfect. By the way, we're all invited to have dinner with Royce and Zelda at seven. If the others don't return soon, I'll have to swim after them."
"That's great. I'd go with you to get them, but it would take too long for me to dry off. I'm always impressed by how quickly you Zoras do, though. Water just rolls off your skin like it was never there."
"Oh, now I finally understand," said Mipha with a grin. "So when you run your hands across my body and caress my skin, you're actually just checking for dryness?"
"You're such a tease!" Link laughed but blushed as well. "You know I love the feel of your soft, smooth skin. But before this conversation goes much further, perhaps it would be wise to find the family. It's not that long until seven o'clock."
"I'll hold the thought for later then," laughed Mipha as they exchanged another kiss.
Then she made her way to the moat and dove in. It was about 45 minutes later, everyone returned to where Link was waiting.
"That was fun!" said Sidon. "I haven't raced like that in some time."
"I beat Ray in most of the races," said Tidon. "Sidon won all of them, but he's older."
"How does beating me in six out of twelve races count as most?" said Raypha. "We didn't finish the last race because Mom stopped it."
"I was ahead of you at the time," said Tidon.
"I was saving my energy to swim faster at the end."
"Alright, you two," said Mipha. "Consider tonight's dinner as part of the wedding and be on good behavior, understood?"
"Enjoy your dinner," said Gaddison. "I think Rivan and I will return to the Castle Kippers Shop for some fresh porgies, then listen to the music from the water."
"My thoughts exactly," laughed Rivan. "Should be a fun time."
"Then enjoy yourselves, and we will see you tomorrow," said Mipha.
The family made their way to the castle and then to the family dining room, where Royce and Zelda were already waiting.
"I hope we're not late," said Link.
"No, not at all," said Royce. "Zelda wanted to come down early to make sure everything was ready for you."
"Planning other things takes my mind off worrying about wedding preparations," laughed Zelda. "But now let me properly introduce Mipha's brother, Prince Sidon. You recall Mipha's and Link's two children, Raypha and Tidon. You met them at breakfast during a past visit. Please meet my fiancé Royce."
Greetings were exchanged, and then everyone sat down for dinner.
"I guess it will be no surprise that fish features prominently on the menu tonight," said Zelda. "I hope it's to everyone's liking."
Dinner was indeed a feast, with various dishes made from the day's fresh catch. The table was adorned with plates of raw and grilled Hearty Salmon, trays of raw and crispy fried porgies, and a large bowl of Hearty Blueshell Snails cooked in a creamy white sauce.
"Fish is always to my liking," Sidon laughed. "And the same can be said for my sister and her family."
"Those races in the moat earlier worked up quite an appetite," Tidon admitted, eyeing the spread on the table with evident delight. Beside him, Raypha nodded vigorously, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.
As the meal progressed, conversation flowed freely among the diners. They chatted about everything from Zelda's upcoming wedding preparations to Sidon's and the children's education. Royce proved to be a good listener and an engaging conversationalist; he had a knack for asking questions that sparked lively discussions, especially about education.
As the evening wore on, Zelda stood up with a wine glass in hand for a toast.
"I would like to thank Mipha and her family for joining us tonight," she began. "Your presence here reminds us all of the ties that bind us together, and I hope we will all remain as family in the years ahead."
"Just a sip," Mipha whispered to Raypha and Tidon as everyone raised their glasses and cheered. "We don't want to have to carry you to your room."
After the toast, Royce stood up and cleared his throat, his gaze moving from face to face with genuine warmth and affection.
"Tonight has been a truly special evening," he began, his voice resonating sincerely. "I am honored to be welcomed into this wonderful family, and I look forward to many more moments like this in the future. Let us continue to support one another through all the joys and challenges life may bring."
"Well said," said Link as he nodded in agreement.
The room buzzed once more with laughter and chatter as they enjoyed dessert. Eventually, as the candles dimmed, it was time to say goodnight.
"Everyone needs to rest," Mipha said. "Sidon and the children must be tired after racing this afternoon."
"We all do," added Royce. "Though I am not sure how well I will sleep - I'm too excited."
After goodnight hugs were shared and Royce left, Link prepared to depart with his family when Zelda stopped him.
"Mipha, can Link stay for a moment? I'd like a private word," Zelda asked.
"Of course, Zelda," Mipha replied before leaving.
Alone with Link, Zelda opened up. "Before my wedding to Royce tomorrow, I wanted to speak with you," Zelda's voice held emotion. "You've always been special to me, Link. I hope we never lose that bond."
"We won't," Link assured her. "You're immensely important to me, Zelda, regardless of what happens with our marriages."
"You know, there was a time years ago when I thought it might be us standing at the altar," Zelda said softly.
"I remember," Link sighed. "Maybe in another life, we will. It was very hard for me to tell you I loved Mipha."
"I sensed it," Zelda nodded sympathetically. "But you handled it with grace and kindness. Now we're both happily in love with others. Royce may not be the brave hero you are, but I can tell he loves me deeply."
"At this point in your life, you don't need a knight to protect you from danger," Link spoke earnestly. "You need someone who loves you unconditionally, who wants to share their life with you and build a future together. And it seems like you have found that with Royce - someone who shares your passion for science and loves you deeply. I cannot ask for anything more for you, Zelda."
"You're right. And I appreciate your kind words," Zelda smiled.
"You will always hold a special place in my heart, Zelda," Link said, his voice trembling slightly. "Our journey together forged an unbreakable bond - your blood carrying the power of the goddess and mine holding the spirit of the hero. Nothing can ever change that."
Zelda's gaze softened as she replied, her voice filled with tenderness. "And let's make sure nothing ever will, Link," she said firmly. "Goodnight. And thank you for everything."
"Goodnight, Zelda," Link echoed, pulling her into a tight embrace. "And thank you."
They held each other for a moment longer before parting ways, Zelda retreating to her room while Link joined Mipha in theirs.
"Is Zelda okay?" Mipha asked when Link returned.
"Yes, it's just an emotional moment," said Link. "You know we're both special to each other, and she wants to ensure we don't lose that."
"I'm sure you won't," said Mipha. "And I understand completely how you both feel. Now, to change the subject, and before you're too tired, maybe you would like to check my skin for dampness?"
"Damp or dry, I would love to," laughed Link as he took her in his arms, and they began kissing.