The Tale of a Shooting Star

The chill of winter had created a blanket of pristine snow across the kingdom of Hyrule. The familiar landscapes, once vibrant with the hues of autumn, now glistened under a layer of powdery white. Towering pines, laden with snow, stood sentinel over the land, their branches bowing in homage to the season.

The winter day had begun with an unexpected gift for Link—a rare day off from his knightly duties. Princess Zelda, recognizing the hero's tireless efforts, granted him a break to savour the joy of the season. Furthermore, in recognition of Link's unwavering dedication in preparing for the looming threat of Calamity Ganon, The King of Hyrule gave Link a special privilege: the permission to stay overnight wherever he desired for the night. Before departing from the castle, Link shared his warm wishes of a Merry Christmas with everyone present, including Zelda, the King, and the two Royal Guards standing vigilant. He planned to travel to Zora's Domain, a realm of both beauty and awe, but more importantly, the cherished home of his childhood friend, Mipha.

After some walking, Link arrived at Wetland Stable. Observing the snug appearance of the place, Link couldn't help but chuckle at its charming coziness, surrounded by a thick blanket of snow. It was complete with a mound of snow crowned atop the giant horse statue, a signature structure crafted from cloth and wood that graced every stable in Hyrule. Link walked up to the counter, where Lawdon warmly welcomed him.

"Howdy Link! Long time no see! Back to visiting Zora's Domain I suppose?" he asked with a chuckle.

Link usually passed by Wetland stable when he visited Zora's Domain, so it wasn't a surprise that Lawdon managed to guess he was on his way to visit the domain. He smiled and nodded, and Lawdon promptly summoned Epona, Link's treasured horse.

"Safe travels!" Lawdon called out as Link rode away, and Link nodded and waved back in return. Despite having ample time before dusk to reach Zora's Domain, his excitement urged him to quicken his horse's pace. The anticipation of reuniting with Mipha fueled his eagerness, making the journey more than a simple passage, as it was a joyful anticipation of cherished moments to come.

* * *

"Don't worry, he's gonna come!" Mipha said to Sidon as he impatiently tugged on her arm. "He promised me he would, and I don't think Link is going to break his promise, or I'll punish him!" Mipha said as she giggled slightly, which made Sidon even more impatient. "He's gonna arrive soon!"

It was the Christmas season in Zora's Domain, and the Domain was decorated with lots of jewels and crystals. The cascading waterfalls, typically fluid and lively, now wore a frosty coat, the waters beneath partly frozen, creating a unique pattern of delicate cracks and murmurs. The architectural elegance of the Domain was highlighted by the soft glow of the numerous luminous crystal ornaments adorning every nook and cranny of the Domain, reflecting the ambient light in a dazzling dance. The festive decorations adorned the Domain's architecture, creating a picturesque scene of beauty. Mipha looked around in awe, her breath taken away by the serene beauty of the Domain. It was the descendant of the winter's grace, where the chill in the air was tempered by the warmth of the community, and every glittering snowflake held the promise of joy.

As Mipha and Sidon watched the sun slowly set, a small commotion could be heard in the plaza. Mipha and Sidon peered over, and found out Link had arrived! The guards were welcoming him and about to bring him up to the throne room. Upon seeing this, Mipha rushed down the stairs, along with Sidon, and ran over to where Link was.