How do I start the "The Mystery Polluter" side quest in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

To start "The Mystery Polluter" side quest in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, you need to travel to Zora's Domain, a key location in the game. This quest involves investigating a mysterious substance polluting the water around the domain. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you complete this quest successfully.

First, you need to reach Zora's Domain. This area is located in the Lanayru region, northeast of Hyrule Castle. The easiest way to get there is by following the path from Kakariko Village, heading east towards the Lanayru Wetlands. Along the way, you will encounter various enemies and environmental challenges, such as rain that makes climbing difficult. ItÔÇÖs a good idea to prepare by having stamina-restoring food or elixirs, as well as weapons and armor suitable for combat.

Once you arrive at Zora's Domain, look for a Zora named Laflat. She can be found near the central area of the domain, close to the throne room. Laflat is concerned about a strange, oily substance polluting the water and asks for your help to investigate the source. This is how you officially start "The Mystery Polluter" side quest.

The next step is to locate the source of the pollution. Laflat mentions that the substance seems to be coming from the East Reservoir Lake. To reach this area, head east from Zora's Domain. You will need to climb or use the nearby waterfalls to ascend to the higher areas. Using the Zora Armor, which allows you to swim up waterfalls, can be very helpful here. If you donÔÇÖt have the Zora Armor yet, you can obtain it by completing the "Divine Beast Vah Ruta" main quest or by finding it in a chest in Zora's Domain.

When you arrive at the East Reservoir Lake, you will notice the oily substance on the waterÔÇÖs surface. Investigate the area carefully. You will find that the pollution is coming from a group of Octoroks. These enemies are shooting the oily substance into the water. To stop the pollution, you need to defeat these Octoroks. They are usually found near the edges of the lake, so approach cautiously.

Combat with Octoroks can be tricky because they can shoot rocks or the oily substance at you. Use a bow to take them out from a distance, or use stealth to get close without being detected. If you have the Stasis rune upgraded, you can freeze them temporarily, giving you a chance to attack. Make sure to have enough arrows and a good bow, as Octoroks can be quick and evasive.

After defeating the Octoroks, return to Laflat in Zora's Domain to report your success. She will thank you for your help and reward you with a Silver Rupee, which is worth 100 rupees. This completes "The Mystery Polluter" side quest.

Some important tips and considerations include making sure you have enough arrows and a good bow before heading to the East Reservoir Lake. The Zora Armor is highly recommended for easier navigation around the area. If you encounter rain, which is common in this region, be prepared with stamina-restoring items to help with climbing.

Common mistakes to avoid include not being prepared for combat with Octoroks. They can be more challenging than they appear, especially if you are caught off guard. Another mistake is not having the Zora Armor, which can make reaching the East Reservoir Lake more difficult.

Advanced techniques include using the Stasis rune to freeze Octoroks, making them easier to target. You can also use stealth to avoid detection and take them out one by one. If you have the Sheikah Sensor upgraded, you can set it to detect Octoroks, making it easier to locate them.

Required items and preparation include a good bow, arrows, and the Zora Armor. Stamina-restoring food or elixirs are also helpful, especially if you need to climb in the rain.

Alternative approaches include using bombs to defeat Octoroks from a distance, though this can be less precise. You can also use the Cryonis rune to create ice blocks in the water, providing cover or a platform to stand on while fighting.

In summary, "The Mystery Polluter" side quest involves investigating and stopping the pollution in Zora's Domain by defeating Octoroks at the East Reservoir Lake. Proper preparation, combat strategy, and navigation are key to completing this quest successfully.