Exploring the vast, open world of Hyrule in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom frequently introduces players to unique domestic mysteries alongside grand adventures. One such compelling side adventure involves the sudden disappearance of a prized herd from the serene fields of the Tabantha region. Successfully solving this mystery requires tracking small visual clues left behind in the wilderness, rewarding players with useful cooking ingredients and crucial progression toward uncovering larger global rumors.
How to Unlock the Investigation
To begin this specific mystery, players must first visit the Lucky Clover Gazette located just outside Rito Village to establish their partnership with the investigative team. Once you have initiated the broader questline, journey directly to the Lucky Clover Gazette's regional partner stationed at the Tabantha Bridge Stable. Speaking with Penn and the local caretaker will trigger the official investigation into the missing animals, outlining the weird circumstances regarding their sudden escape from the pen.
The caretaker explains that the herd vanished shortly after being fed a new recipe based on a controversial princess's direct instructions. This narrative framing ties the missing animals directly to the grander mysteries circulating throughout the kingdom, making it essential for completing your journalistic reports. Preparing yourself with proper environmental gear before setting out is highly recommended due to the sudden temperature drops in the surrounding canyons.
Following the Trail of Breadcrumbs
Locating the missing herd does not require arbitrary searching across the massive map, as the creatures left a very specific trail for you to follow. Stepping out of the stable doors reveals small clusters of Hylian Pinecones scattered sequentially along the grass. Following these fallen items naturally guides Link toward the dangerous, rocky perches of the nearby Tabantha Hills area.
As you move along the path, the distance between the pinecones increases, demanding careful observation of the terrain to maintain your bearings. Maintaining an elevated perspective by climbing small ridges can significantly help you spot the glittering resources from afar. Eventually, the trail leads directly into a secluded clearing where the frightened animals have gathered to hide from nearby predators.
Resolving the Recipe Misunderstanding
Upon discovering the missing herd, players will find the animals safely huddled together but visibly distressed by their recent dietary experience. Examining the central area reveals a forgotten container that sheds light on why the creatures fled their stable comfort. It turns out the caretaker completely misunderstood the agricultural guidelines, feeding the animals whole components rather than grinding them down as instructed.
Interacting with the lead animal triggers a brief cutscene, signaling to your reporter partner that the investigation is successfully closed. Penn will descend from the skies to reward your journalistic efforts with a substantial sum of local currency and an increase in your overall agency rank. With the mystery resolved, the herd will safely return to their home, allowing you to move on to the next major story location across Hyrule.
