Chapter 70 - Secrets and Promises
Summary: In the Victory Timeline, tabloid journalism offers a wild theory for Astra's disappearance. In North Hyrule, Sheikah Chief Saldon meets with Queen Faray and her sister Tila to explain timelines, which causes a dilemma for Tila. Link succumbs to another wave of water rapture with amusing results. Midon and Tiray grow closer as they spend a weekend swimming together.
It was an otherwise typical morning at Hyrule Castle. Queen Zelda had risen early and was already at work in her office. Princess Zelda and her husband Randall had dropped off their ten-year-old son Horwell for his lessons, then joined each other for a late breakfast in the family dining room. The sun streamed through the long windows, casting warm rays of light onto the table settings as Princess Zelda glanced over her Tab for anything important.
Suddenly, she slammed her fist down on the breakfast table with a resounding thud, her anger evident in her furrowed brows and clenched jaw. The elegant plates and utensils shook slightly at the impact, causing a soft clinking sound to fill the air.
"Sorry. But don't these journalists have anything better to do?" she exclaimed to her husband, her voice laced with irritation.
"What's bothering you, my love?" Randall asked concern etched into his features as he reached out to place a comforting hand on Zelda's arm.
"It's this ridiculous article in the Hyrule Inquirer," Zelda replied. "They not only bring up Astra's absence and make me relive the pain of it, but now they're speculating that she's dead, and I had something to do with it. They suggest I killed her out of jealousy!"
"Let me take a look," said Randall, trying to calm his wife's nerves. "I know it's hard, but we shouldn't let ourselves get worked up over baseless rumors from the press. You know the Inquirer is notorious for sensationalized stories when they have nothing substantial to report. They read more like a gossip column, except I think they make up their own gossip."
Randall pulled out his own Tab and quickly navigated to the Hyrule Inquirer. He scrolled through various articles before finding the one he was looking for, his expression hardening as he read through the distasteful accusations against his wife.
The Vanishing of Princess Astra: Uncovering the Truth?
Whispers of a dark conspiracy have begun to surface surrounding the disappearance of Princess Astra. After more than two years of silence from the Royal Family, it may be time to question the official story and consider other, more unsettling possibilities.
For readers who may not remember, on the first day of the tenth month in the year 58, Princess Astra vanished without a trace after her seventeenth birthday celebration at Zora's Domain. The Royal Family's official statement claimed that she had embarked on a secret mission for Goddess Hylia, but this explanation lacks any means of verification and leaves many unanswered questions. Where is this mysterious mission? How long is it expected to last?
Known for her exceptional athletic ability, Princess Astra was a force to be reckoned with. Hyrule Guards privileged enough to see her in action report that her combat skills were unmatched, rivaling even those of the legendary Champion Link. With cute short blonde hair and gorgeous blue eyes that could captivate you with her gaze, Princess Astra's beauty was equally renowned. And at seventeen, she was no longer a child and had become an adult in the eyes of the law.
As theories continue to swirl about what could have happened to the beloved princess, some have proposed that perhaps her older sister, Princess Zelda, grew envious of her younger sibling's beauty, talents, and accomplishments as Astra outshined her in many ways. Is it possible that Princess Zelda caused Astra's demise in a jealous rage? And if so, is the Royal Family hiding this dark truth to avoid a terrible scandal?
No evidence supports these speculations, but they cannot be entirely dismissed, as sad examples of fatal sibling rivalry have certainly occurred in the past. As time passes and no new information emerges, it becomes increasingly likely that Princess Astra is no longer alive. If this is true, we can only hope that justice will prevail and that whoever is responsible for the tragedy will face the severe consequences they deserve.
In the meantime, we will leave no stone unturned in our continuing search for the truth. Keep following our investigation as we explore the mystery of Princess Astra's disappearance.
Randall clenched his jaw as he read the reporter's insinuation that Zelda had something to do with her sister's disappearance. He knew how much Astra meant to his wife and how much she had suffered after her departure. He found it appalling that someone would use such an event to stir up rumors and controversy.
"No stone unturned? That sounds about right, as the sleazy writer must have crawled out from under a rock. I completely agree that this is pure nonsense," said Randall, squeezing his wife's hand for support."But I think the best course of action is to ignore it."
"That may be the wise course, but I can't just let these accusations go unanswered," replied Zelda, her voice trembling with emotion and tears starting to fill her eyes. "I miss Astra so much! My birthday last week didn't feel the same without her playful teasing. To be accused of murdering my beloved sister, whom I would do anything for, is infuriating. I must write a letter in response, which they better publish or else!"
"I wouldn't even dignify it with a response, sweetheart, but if you insist, I'll do whatever I can to help you," Randall promised gently.
He stood, put his arm around Zelda, assisted her up from her seat, and then pulled her into a firm hug. She smiled through her tears, grateful for his comfort.
"I love you," he whispered, wiping away the tears on her cheeks.
She sobbed for another moment, finally composing herself with a deep sigh.
"That's better," Randall said, noticing her change in demeanor.
"Thank you, sweetheart," Zelda replied as they kissed briefly.
"Do you feel all better now?" Randall asked.
"Not all better, but your hug and kiss helped. And you're right - I shouldn't let such nonsense bother me so much."
"I'm glad I could help. Then, can I ask you something? You're not too upset to answer a question, are you?" Randall asked with a quizzical expression.
"No, you can ask me anything, sweetheart."
"Are you more upset about being accused of murder or of being jealous of your sister who, quote, 'outshined you in many ways'?" Randall playfully teased.
Zelda couldn't help but laugh.
"Keep joking at inopportune moments, my love, and I might just murder you to see which feels worse," she joked back as she tickled Randall in the ribs, and then they resumed kissing for a few more minutes until Zelda spoke up.
"But honestly, Astra and I were never jealous of each other. We're different but have more in common than most half-sisters. We have the same mother, and our fathers were first cousins, so there's that. Astra has more of the adventure spirit in her, which was evident from an early age."
"That's certainly true," said Randall noticing how Zelda always spoke of Astra in the present tense.
"Now, let's both get to work. I wasted enough time on this ridiculous article," said Zelda.
"Will your mother see the article, do you think?" Randall asked as they left the dining room together, holding hands. "She may also be outraged."
"Mother generally limits her news reading to the Hyrule Herald, a more responsible organization that would never publish such nonsense. So, hopefully not. There is no need for both of us to get upset."
Meanwhile, in North Hyrule, Tila, her husband Linky, and their two children finished their breakfast meal together in their cozy home near Jabu Lagoon. The aroma of Linky's cooked fish still lingered in the air as the family prepared to go about their day. Twelve-year-old Tara eagerly helped clear the dishes, while nearly two-year-old Lanka gazed curiously at his family from his seat.
"Sweetheart, did I mention that your brother is staying at the inn here again?" Tila casually inquired.
"No! Really?" Linky's eyes widened with surprise and curiosity.
"Yep," Tila confirmed with a knowing smile, placing a loving hand on her husband's shoulder. "Midon was out late with Tiray last night, swimming under the stars. And they're meeting again this morning to spend the day together surfing at the north shore."
A teasing grin spread across Tila's face as she continued, "I think your brother is utterly infatuated with Tiray. And I've heard that your Uncle Sidon is dating another of my cousins, Arana. Perhaps North Hyrule will capture two more of your domain's royalty in marriage, just like I did you." She winked playfully at Linky, adding, "Catching the boys seems easy, though. We'll have to work on your two sisters next, and our conquest of your domain will be complete."
Linky chuckled warmly at his wife's joking. "Very funny, sweetheart," he responded good-naturedly. "You come from such a large family on your father's side – it feels like half of your domain is a relative! But how do you know we're not the ones working to take over your domain? Since I married you, we only need to find someone suitable for your sister, Faray."
"Good luck with that," Tila replied with a laugh. "Fa is pretty selective when it comes to dating."
"By the way, how do you know all this? You sound like you work for a gossip column."
"Tiray and I were – and are again – very close friends," she explained with a smile. "She tells me everything and relies upon me in certain matters since her memory loss."
As the conversation flowed between the couple, Tara couldn't help but interject with a pressing question on her mind. "Mom, if my father's brother marries my mother's cousin, what does that make Uncle Midon?"
Tila exchanged a smile with Linky before gently patting Tara's head. "He's still just your uncle, dear," she reassured her daughter. "But your Dad and I were just joking – nobody's necessarily getting married quite yet." She paused thoughtfully before continuing, "We Zoras view marriage as a lifetime commitment, so we tend to date for a long time to be sure we're right for each other."
Tara nodded in understanding. She was wise enough not to mention her mom and dad's relatively short dating period due to Hylians aging so quickly – something that could easily dampen the light-hearted mood.
"Anyway, I'll walk with you to class today, Tara, instead of Dad, as Aunt Faray needs to meet with me, and your school is on the way," said Tila.
"Okay, Mom, though I'm big enough to go alone," said Tara.
"I know you are, sweetheart, but I like to spend extra time with you when possible," Tila replied.
"Then I guess I'll take care of Lanka," said Linky, reaching out and caressing Lanka's forehead and earning a smile. "Is anything wrong?"
"Faray is meeting with Sheikah Chief Saldon, and whenever there is any non-routine subject for discussion, Faray wants me to attend to keep informed," Tila replied.
"Come on, Mom, or I'll need to leave without you," said Tara.
"It's nice to see someone so excited about going to school," laughed Linky.
"And excited to see friends," said Tila, leaning over to kiss Lanka goodbye. "But Tara is an excellent student, so it's no surprise she enjoys learning."
"Mom! We need to go!" said Tara, pulling Tila's hand.
"Bye!" Linky waved as they left.
Tila and Tara walked hand in hand towards the school, the morning sun glinting off the calm waters of Jabu Lagoon. As they approached the school building, Tila gave her daughter a quick hug.
"Have a great day, sweetheart. I'll see you this afternoon," Tila said, smiling warmly.
"Thanks, Mom. Good luck with your meeting!" Tara replied, waving as she hurried off to join her friends.
Tila watched her daughter disappear into the school before turning towards the path to the central square. As she approached, she noticed Sheikah Chief Saldon already waiting outside, his silver-white hair and traditional Sheikah garb standing out against the darker architecture.
"Good morning, Chief Saldon," Tila greeted him with a respectful nod.
"Mistress Tila," Saldon returned the greeting with a slight bow. "I trust you are well this morning?"
"Yes, shall we go up?" Tila responded, and with a nod from the guards at the foot of the stairs, they both ascended to the throne room.
"Chief Saldon, Sister, welcome," said Faray.
"I think we should meet in the private room," said Saldon, referring to the room Sopha had built during her reign to hold secret conversations. They made their way to the small room adjoining the throne room and closed the door as everyone sat down.
"Shall I make some tea?" said Faray.
"That would be nice," said Saldon, who was already betraying some anxiety.
Faray lit a pot to boil water, mixed it with tea leaves, and poured three cups from the pot.
"Chief Saldon, what is the reason for this urgent meeting?" inquired Faray.
Saldon leaned in and spoke in a low voice, "There is a secret that we Sheikah have kept hidden since your sister Sopha's reign."
He proceeded to explain the existence of two timelines in Hyrule and how North Hyrule had access to them, just as he had shared with Aldora the day before.
"We were reluctant to share this knowledge during the reign of your sister, Sopha, given her conquest ambitions," said Saldon in conclusion. "And then felt there was no reason to bring it up afterward."
When Saldon finished, Tila was amazed. "This is incredible news! My family will be delighted!"
Saldon cautioned her, "But it may not be wise to inform your family. This is something that must be discussed further."
Tila protested, "How can I keep such an incredible secret from my family? My father-in-law Link's daughter lives in the other timeline. If there is a chance for them to be reunited, they deserve to know. And what about my mother-in-law Mipha's father and brother? They must have been mourning Mipha's loss for 145 years!"
Saldon explained, "We Sheikah have always been cautious about contamination between timelines. Knowing another timeline's accessibility could alter the course of events in both timelines."
Tila pointed out, "But you yourself mentioned accidentally leaving evidence of our timeline in the other one. Isn't it too late to suddenly act morally superior?"
Saldon conceded, "True, but there is also a possibility that the evidence was lost at sea, Mistress Tila."
Faray interjected, "Let me make a decision on this matter. If the evidence you speak of is never found, we should leave things as they are. But if people in the other timeline become aware of our existence, I agree with my sister. It would be cruel to deny those special servants of the Goddess contact with lost loved ones."
Saldon conceded, "Very well. We will abide by Your Majesty's decision."
"How will we know if the other timeline has discovered our existence, Chief Saldon?" Tila inquired.
"Mistress Astra has her Tab with her, and we can listen for any messages from it through the timeline portal," Saldon explained. "If she or someone using it contacts us, I promise to let you know."
"Very well," said Tila.
"But this also means you cannot reveal this secret to your family, Tila," Faray added. "It must be considered a state secret."
Tila reluctantly consented, "It will be difficult for me, but I will do as you say."
"Then I think that concludes what I needed to discuss with you," said Saldon.
Faray nodded, her expression thoughtful. "Thank you for bringing this to our attention, Chief Saldon. We will handle this information with the utmost discretion."
As they stood to leave the room, Tila's mind was racing. The possibility of reuniting loved ones weighed heavily on her. She knew keeping this secret from her family, especially her husband Linky, would be challenging.
Once Saldon left, Faray turned to her sister. "Tila, I know this puts you in a difficult position. But I trust you understand the importance of keeping this information confidential. We have to honor our agreements with the Sheikah who live here. If we cannot trust one another, our kingdom will fall apart."
Tila nodded, her expression conflicted. "I understand, Fa. It's just… it feels wrong to keep something so significant from my husband's family. But I'll do as you ask."
Faray placed a comforting hand on her sister's shoulder. "I know it's not easy. We'll revisit this decision if circumstances change. For now, let's focus on our regular duties."
As Tila made her way back home, she couldn't help but imagine the joy on her father-in-law Link's face if he could be reunited with his daughter Astra. Then she sighed and shook her head as she thought about what tale to invent for Linky that their meeting was about.
Meanwhile, in Zora's Domain, Mipha awoke to an empty slumber pool - her beloved Link was nowhere to be found. She gracefully emerged from the water and made her way to the dining area, where she spotted her daughter Mila enjoying breakfast alone.
"Good morning, sweetheart," greeted Mipha with a gentle smile.
"Hi, Mom. I caught some Hyrule Bass for you and Dad. I left them on ice for you both," replied Mila cheerfully.
"You haven't seen your father then? He's not here."
"Oh! No, I haven't seen him. He must have gone out very early," said Mila, her tone reflecting her surprise.
"I wonder what possessed him to leave without telling us, " Mipha pondered before quickly deciding to go look for him.
"I'll come with you, Mom," Mila offered.
Together, mother and daughter ventured out of their home and scanned the area for any sign of Link. Walking down the familiar path toward the central part of the domain, they noticed a small crowd gathering near the edge and peering down to the lower level.
"What's happening over there?" Mila asked curiously, pointing towards the source of the commotion.
Squinting to try and make out the source of excitement, Mipha couldn't help but feel a twinge of concern. "I'm not sure, but we should check it out. Your father could be involved."
As they approached the growing crowd, they could hear laughter and excited chatter filling the air. Pushing through the group, they finally caught sight of what was causing such a stir.
Link was below, partially hidden under one of Zora's Domain's waterfalls that flowed to the lower level. He was floating face-up in the crystal clear water, his body completely relaxed and his face adorned with a serene expression as if lost in a delightful dream.
"It seems like he's enjoying water rapture again," chuckled Mipha, shaking her head. "He's like a juvenile Zora now."
Both mother and daughter dived down to join him, Mila calling out to him first with a mix of concern and amusement in her voice.
"Dad?" she called out, trying to rouse him from his peaceful state. "Wake up."
Link's eyes fluttered open, and he turned his head towards them with a dreamy smile on his face.
"This feels so good! The water's melody is even more enchanting than the Mikau Lake waterfalls," he murmured happily. "I couldn't resist coming here to experience it."
"Of course, it's better," replied Mipha with a fond smile. "We Zoras built these waterfalls ourselves and ensured their sound was appealing."
"Do I have to get up?" Link mumbled, closing his eyes again in bliss.
"Yes, my love. It's time to come home with us. You're causing a scene, and I don't want to read about you in Bab's Babble Bubble," scolded Mipha playfully.
Mila and Mipha each took one of Link's arms and helped him upright.
"Let's swim up this waterfall together that you adore so much," suggested Mipha.
"Fine," said Link. "I am getting hungry now that you mention it."
"Who mentioned food, Dad?" laughed Mila. "And you need to control these impulses. But let's go!"
Meanwhile, it was later that morning, after sleeping in, that Midon awoke at the North Hyrule Inn. He was at once filled with anticipation, so much so that he had no appetite for breakfast. He had spent last night with Tiray swimming in Jabu Lagoon under a clear starlit sky, and they had gotten along so well. Tiray was intelligent, fun to be with, and gorgeous too. She surprised him more than once with her technical knowledge, and he realized some of her memory must be returning. Several times, he had wanted to kiss her last night, but the moment never felt quite right. And he didn't want to scare her off by being too pushy. Still, lhe couldn't help but feel a growing desire to do so when they were together.
Midon at once left the inn and made his way toward Laray's and Tiray's residence. He had learned Queen Faray had arranged to have the tiny house built for Laray after she lost her sister and served as full-time ambassador to Hyrule. As Midon approached their home, he couldn't help but admire its charming appearance. Ivy crept up the walls while coral-shaped purple and blue bushes bloomed around the doorway. With each step closer, a nervous flutter danced in his chest.
He rapped on the wooden door, the sound echoing louder than expected as he anxiously awaited an answer. To his surprise, only Tiray greeted him.
"Ready to head to the north shore, Ti?" he asked, hoping she wouldn't notice his nervousness.
"All set," said Tiray cheerfully. "My sister is finally comfortable with me going without her, so no chaperone this time. She's off at meetings."
"Great!" he exclaimed. "Not that I minded Laray being there too - whatever makes everyone comfortable."
"We can head there by crossing through Crimson Grove," Tiray suggested. "The waves should be strong and fun today. Don't you agree surfing is more fun than swimming up waterfalls?"
"It's definitely more fun to do it with you," he admitted.
Tiray blushed slightly at Midon's compliment, a warm smile spreading across her face. "You're sweet," she said softly. "I enjoy spending time with you too."
As they set off towards Crimson Grove, the morning sun cast a golden glow over the landscape. The air was crisp and invigorating, filled with the scent of blooming red flowers and the salty tang of the nearby ocean.
"So, has some more of your memory returned each day?" Midon asked curiously as they walked side by side.
Tiray's expression turned thoughtful. "It's hard to say. Sometimes, I get flashes of memories, like puzzle pieces falling into place. Other times, I seem to know things without remembering how I learned them. It's a strange feeling."
Midon nodded sympathetically. "I can't imagine how frustrating that must be. But you've been handling it remarkably well."
Tiray flashed a smile, and Midon felt his heart skip again - she looked so beautiful when she smiled like that!
"I'm lucky to have the support of my sister and friends; it's been easier to adjust with their help. The only thing I struggle with is being treated as a research subject by the scientists studying my condition. However, they claim it will benefit others if they can better understand what happened to me. After all, not many people come back from being presumed dead. So, of course, I cooperate."
"I can understand a little of how it must feel to be treated that way," Midon said sympathetically. "My younger sister Lapha can be quite clinical in her attitude sometimes. I still remember one time that happened when my two sisters and I were swimming together."
It was a rainy afternoon, and Mila, Lapha, and I had been swimming and racing in Toto Lake and the adjoining waterfall. I carelessly swam too close to one of the ancient structures there and scraped my right fin.
"Zodont! I hit my fin!" I cried out in pain.
"Here, let me heal you," said Mila, rushing to my side. "But will you watch your language, Midon?"
"Sorry, Mi," I answered.
"Wait, Mila, don't heal the subject yet!" said Lapha as she rushed over. "I want to first record the wound's measurements and other physical attributes for my research."
"Your brother is in pain, Laff," said Mila. "I'm not going to let him suffer."
"Fine, let me quickly record what I can," said Lapha as she used her Tab to gather what data she could while Mila healed my wound.
"So, I guess that's a small inkling of what you must be going through," chuckled Midon.
Funny," said Tiray. "And thank you, Midon, for being so understanding."
As they continued their walk through Crimson Grove, the vibrant red foliage surrounded them, creating a stunning contrast against the blue sky. The path wound gently through the trees and shrubs, occasionally offering glimpses of the sparkling ocean ahead.
After a few more moments, they finally emerged from the lush forest of onto the sun-drenched sands of North Hyrule's north shore. The soft, warm sand sank slightly beneath their feet as they walked closer to the water's edge. The rhythmic crash of waves filled the air as they gazed out at the pristine beach in front of them. A few other Zoras were already out enjoying the surf, gracefully gliding through the swells.
"Let's race to the water!" Tiray declared with a mischievous grin, already taking off across the sand.
"Hey, not fair!" Midon protested with a laugh, chasing after her and catching up once they both jumped into the refreshing water together. Tiray expertly dove under an incoming wave before resurfacing a moment later, her scales glistening with droplets.
"Let's swim out past the breakers," she playfully suggested.
The two Zoras swam out past the breaking waves, skillfully diving under larger swells as they made their way to the prime surfing area. Once they reached a suitable spot, they treaded water and scanned for promising waves on the horizon.
"So, what exactly counts as keeping up with you?" Midon asked curiously.
"Do I really have to explain it?" Tiray laughed. "You should know it when you see it – riding a wave into shore without falling behind and maintaining your balance while doing so - not floundering about like an upside-down crab."
"Alright then," Midon chuckled. "I think only you and my sister Mila have ever compared me to a crab!"
"Enough talking - here comes a good wave," Tiray said excitedly, pointing towards a growing swell.
They positioned themselves to catch the approaching wave, their bodies poised and ready. As the swell lifted them, they both pushed off with powerful strokes, riding the crest of the wave toward the shore.
Tiray gracefully maneuvered along the face of the wave, her movements fluid and precise. Midon, determined not to be outdone, focused intently on maintaining his balance and speed. He found himself matching Tiray's pace, the two of them gliding side by side as they rode the wave. Midon couldn't help but steal glances at Tiray, admiring her skill and the joy evident in her expression.
As they neared the shore, Tiray executed a perfect flip off the wave, landing smoothly in the shallower water. Midon, not to be outdone, attempted a similar move but slightly miscalculated, resulting in a less graceful splash.
Tiray laughed good-naturedly as Midon resurfaced, shaking water from his head. "Not bad," she teased. "At least you kept your balance until the end. Shall we go again?"
"Of course, and this time I'll do better," said Midon, then felt a thrill as she took his hand and they swam out side-by-side.
As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, they continued swimming, enjoying every moment together, until it was finally time to head home.
"Will you be able to get home tonight?" Tiray asked. "I know you said you had to work tomorrow from your room, where your rune development equipment is set up."
"I can still catch the late ferry back to our domain," said Midon as they began retracing their earlier steps. "But I didn't want to miss a moment I could spend with you."
"I'm glad," said Tiray. "I guess if I said I can't remember the last time I had so much fun, it wouldn't mean much to you, given my memory loss."
"It would still mean everything to me," said Midon.
They looked into each other's eyes first, then Midon alternated between her eyes and her lips.
"Go ahead. I won't bite," said Tiray with a smile.
Midon reached out and pulled her close as they kissed where Crimson Grove met the shoreline, then shared several more kisses until Tiray finally spoke up.
"You're going to miss your ferry," she laughed, gently caressing his cheek. "And my sister will start worrying about me soon."
"Yes, you're right," said Midon as he took her hand and walked her the rest of the way home. "But I don't want this special moment to end."
They kissed goodnight at Tiray's doorstep, then she went inside and he heard her greeting her sister as the door closed. Midon checked his Tab for the time.
"I better hurry!" he said to himself as he rushed off to the ferry terminal, arriving as they were boarding.
He made it with a few moments to spare and took a seat. But it felt like he had floated all the way there. He was definitely in love!