Chapter 29 - Castle Secrets

                                    

                                          
Summary: Zelda enjoys a romantic picnic lunch with her sweetheart. Some ancient Sheikah documents of uncertain importance are found beneath Hyrule Castle. Mipha's and Link's outward show of affection after their Lover's Pond holiday slightly bothers their son Tidon.
As midday neared, Hyrule Castle basked in the sun's bright glow, the calm weather the picture of a perfect day. Queen Zelda was tucked away in her office near the castle's pinnacle, finalizing various papers. As she glanced at the clock, the hands nearing twelve, anticipation bubbled within her. Soon Royce would arrive, and she could shed her mantle of rule for a time, allowing herself to be simply Zelda.
The blossoming romance between Zelda and Royce was a sweet sanctuary from the pressures of royal life. Their lives had first intersected at the local academy, where Royce taught science. Zelda had at once been struck by Royce's passion for education and scientific exploration, an enthusiasm they both shared.
Their initial encounters were marked by endearing clumsiness, a discomfort more noticeable on Royce's side. A fond smile tugged at her lips as she remembered his earnest struggles between formality and familiarity, how to address her until she gently eased his anxiety. But by now, they had gotten way, way past that.
And as she discovered more about Royce's world and perspective, her affection for him deepened, eventually blossoming into love. Royce was not just a joy to be around, but he had the ability to make her feel cherished in a way she had seldom experienced. Not to mention, his physical allure added an undeniable spark to their relationship.
And beyond the exhilarating thrill of newfound love, her relationship with Royce was a healing salve for Zelda. It quieted the ghosts of her past and steered her gaze toward the beckoning horizon of future possibilities. Link's wisdom had indeed proven true - this emotional sanctuary was precisely what she required to chart a new course for her life.
Meanwhile, Royce made his way briskly up the palace steps, his pace slackening only as he neared Queen Zelda's office. The guard on duty, a familiar face named Ryan, acknowledged his arrival with a knowing glance.
"Uncle Ryan, how do you fare?" Royce inquired, his voice light and friendly.
In truth, Ryan was not Royce's uncle. Royce had no living blood relatives to speak of. However, a deep bond existed between the two men, rooted in the legacy of Royce's late father, a fallen Royal Guard soldier. Ryan, a lifelong friend of his father, had never married and often frequented their home as a guest. From Royce's earliest memories as a young child, Ryan always made time to play with him. To some extent, Royce was the son Ryan never had.
"All's well, Royce," Ryan responded. His gaze took in Royce's appearance, and he added, "You seem to be in good health."
"I'm holding up, doing my best," Royce assured, catching his breath from the brisk ascent. "But I should go. I wouldn't want to keep Her Majesty waiting. She requested my presence at noon sharp."
"You may proceed. As usual, knock first," Ryan advised.
Upon knocking and receiving consent from within, Royce gently pushed open the door. He exchanged warm smiles with Zelda as he closed the door behind him. Then they rushed into each other's arms, their lips meeting just as the castle clock tolled the hour.
"Perfect timing," Zelda mused, laughter touching her voice as they concluded their third kiss, their hands now interlaced.
"I dared not risk incurring a royal censure," Royce joked. His eyes twinkled as he added, "Besides, I couldn't wait to see you, darling, and you are as enchanting as ever."
"So sweet," said Zelda as their shared laughter was punctuated by two more kisses.
Pulling away, Zelda announced, "Given the glorious weather, how about a picnic lunch in the castle garden? I've taken the liberty of arranging a basket. As I remember, your next class isn't until 2 o'clock."