Chapter 7 - Speaking Zora
Summary: Link begins to embrace Zora culture. He and Mipha make a belated honeymoon trip to Lurelin Village.
It was a sunny and quite warm afternoon in Zora's Domain, and Link was sitting next to Mipha on Ruta's trunk high above East Reservoir Lake. They had both spent the morning in a council meeting with King Dorephan, and after lunch had the afternoon to themselves. The view was gorgeous as the ice blue cliffs sparkled in the sunlight.
"If there is a more beautiful place in all of Hyrule, I don't know where it is," said Link as he gazed at the breathtaking view. "And my view of the person sitting next to me is also the most beautiful in all of Hyrule."
"Oh my, such a sweet tongue!" said Mipha. "Is it me or the domain that brings this out in you? You used to be so quiet, and now you're such a romantic!"
Link truly never felt happier. He had completely fallen in love with the domain, to Mipha's delight. And of course, he had completely fallen in love with her some time ago.
"But I still want to test you on your studies, sweetheart," said Mipha. "Do you recall what the last one means?"
Link had promised Mipha he would immerse himself in Zora culture, and besides studying their history, had been trying to learn some Zora expressions. But, as expected, he kept getting confused.
"Sorry, I can't quite remember that one," said Link rubbing his head. "But I didn't say what I did to change the subject. I just felt a surge of emotion looking around and then seeing you."
"You give up?", said Mipha ignoring the sweet talk. "Dive right to the depth means to get right to the point. Try to imagine you live in water and think about what it could mean."
"That's easier said than done," said Link.
"You mean a click is not a catch," said Mipha.
"I wasn't practicing expressions, I was just answering you," said Link. "How would I know what that last one meant?"
"Clicking to locate a fish is easier than catching it," said Mipha. "It's practically a word-for-word translation."
Ruta let out two soft bellows, which gratefully were quiet because they were sitting at the end of Ruta's nose.
"That's a little harsh, Ruta," said Mipha. "He's still a good husband."
"What!?" said Link. "What's Ruta's problem with me now? Is it, uh, she saying I'm stupid or something?"
"It might be best not to discuss Ruta's thoughts right at this very moment," said Mipha. "Let's keep to the fish at fin."
"The task at hand. I got that one," said Link. "But do we always have to review what I've studied here on Ruta? I feel like Ruta's looking over my shoulder."
"You mean she's riding your wake," said Mipha. "But honestly Ruta wants you to learn more about Zora culture, and I want to show Ruta you're not … I mean show Ruta how smart you are."
"Fine," said Link. "Whatever makes you happy. And Ruta happy as well I guess."
"I can see you're getting a little frustrated," said Mipha as she reached out and stroked his cheek. "We can move on from expressions to something else. Let's discuss some history. We'll start with a straightforward one. Now, I don't want to add to the pressure, but you had better remember this subject given where we are at the moment. Tell me what you know about Princess Ruto."
Link knew this one and explained the story of Princess Ruto and how she fell in love with the hero of time and gave him the Zora Sapphire and then later went on to become a sage and help in the successful fight against Ganondorf.
"Good," said Mipha.
Ruta bellowed softly once.
"I know it was easy, Ruta, but Link needed some encouragement," said Mipha. "I do love him, you know."
Ruta was silent.
"Now what?" said Link. "She's sulking or jealous or something?"
"No, no, she's fine," said Mipha.
"What about Queen Rutela?" said Mipha.
Link remembered this one too, the tragic story of Queen Rutela and her son Prince Ralis being rescued by Ilia and the hero of Twilight.
"That's good," said Mipha. "But perhaps that's enough questions for now. I think you need to exercise your body as well as your mind. We were sitting in a meeting all morning. A swim together would be nice."
"Yes, I could use a break," said Link. "Are you sure Ruta doesn't mind me taking you away from her?"
"Good point! Let me ask," said Mipha teasing him.
Link made a face.
"I'm teasing you," said Mipha.
Link relaxed.
"And she said it's fine," laughed Mipha.
Then she tickled him in the ribs as he made another face.
"I'm teasing you again, sweetheart," said Mipha. "You come first in my life, and Ruta knows that very well, right Ruta?"
Ruta squirted some water from under them, soaking them and sending them both into hysterics.
"She does like you," said Mipha. "She likes to tease me about you because she knows how much in love I am."
Mipha adjusted the trunk so they could return to inside Ruta, then they left by the entrance and dove into the Lake. Mipha raised the entrance platform back up, and then they swam together to the northwest pier. They climbed ashore, and then Mipha turned to Link and gave him her sweetest smile.
"I hope you want a kiss," said Link. "Because when you look at me that way, I can't help but give you one."
"You are such a quick learner!" said Mipha happily. "Well, about some things you are. But catching is better than clicking."
"Actions speak louder than words, right?" said Link. "Wow! I got that one right!"
"I wasn't testing you, sweetheart, I was speaking to you," said Mipha as she reached out for him and they embraced then exchanged a long and passionate kiss.
Then they kissed again and again. Mipha helped pull off his clothes, as Link gently caressed the back of her neck and kissed her on the neck and throat. Then Mipha pressed her body against his and used the tips of her nails to gently stroke his back, sending a thrill through his body. Finally, they collapsed on the bed together and made love.
Afterward, they lay side by side, looked at each other, and smiled.
"I love you," said Link as he reached over gently caressed her waist. "Very much."
"And I love you," said Mipha as she stroked his hair. "I'm glad we took a break."
"Were your moans of pleasure Zora expressions?" said Link.
"Were yours Hylian?" said Mipha tickling him again and sending him into a fit of laughter. "But all kidding aside, I'm happy with how seriously you've been taking learning about Zora customs and such. I love you for doing it."
"I'm trying," said Link as he brought his laughter under control and held her. "But so many Zora expressions are based on experiences I've never had, like using high-pitched clicks in the water. So it's pure memorization for me."
"I know," said Mipha. "But understanding these expressions will make you more comfortable in conversations around the domain. And if you hear them enough or, even better, start to use them yourself, you'll remember them. As for our history, you should learn it since you are part of our family and live here."
"I can see that," said Link. "And I want to be a good father when the time comes and know what my children will learn."
"Oh, we're up to children already, not just a child?" laughed Mipha. "You know Zora mothers typically only have one or two eggs at a time, right?"
"Yes, I read about that," said Link. "I'm hoping for two."
Mipha laughed.
"Let's swim to refresh ourselves," said Mipha. "Come on. You don't need your armor. I'll pull you if you get tired."
Mipha took Link's hand, and they dove into the water together, scaring a pair of ducks who had been swimming nearby.
"The water's delightful, isn't it?" said Mipha as she floated on her back.
"Yes, it's very refreshing," said Link. "I'm so used to wearing your armor in the water that I feel helpless without it now."
"Here, take my hand and just float on your back next to me," said Mipha.
They floated together quietly for a few moments.
"Do you remember when we came here, and I taught you how to swim?" said Mipha.
"Yes, a little of it at least," said Link. "I was pretty small. You told me I needed to swim better to play with my friends here. I remember you were very patient with me, and I think we spent all afternoon here. I learned a lot, but I think you wore me out and I fell asleep."
"Yes, you fell asleep while we were sitting on the pier here, drying off," said Mipha. "I carried you to the bed, and you slept for over an hour. But you don't remember what you did when you woke up, do you? I'll never forget it."
"No," said Link. "Nothing bad, I hope."
"No, just the opposite," said Mipha. "You gave me the most adorable smile. I had expected you to wake up startled, surprised where you were. But instead, you woke up so happy to see me and it just melted my heart. I told Father about it later when I came home."
"I don't specifically remember that, but I do remember how kind you were to me," said Link. "It's amazing how long we've known each other and how our feelings have evolved. I used to think of you as an aunt or a big sister."
"And now you've caught up to me in age," said Mipha. "But I still think you're adorable."
Link smiled at her and squeezed her hand.
"You know, I've been thinking. We never had a honeymoon. We went from marriage to hunting monsters. Wouldn't it be nice to get away for a week on our own someplace nice, like Lurelin Village say?"
"That does sound romantic," said Mipha. "I can check with Father if he can spare us for a week. We can even take a boat there, and that would make it even more fun. I could get in some water time anytime I need to, and I can catch all the fish we need. Come, let's speak with him now. But, uh, don't forget to get dressed first."
Link dressed and they made their way to the throne room. The guard, Fari, stopped them at the foot of the stairs.
"Lady Mipha," said Fari bowing his head. "His Majesty is in a meeting. Of course, if it is urgent, then please proceed at once."
"No, thank you, Fari, it's not urgent," said Mipha. "We'll come back in a little while."
"You know, all that 'swimming' made me a little hungry," said Link. "Can we grab a bite first?"
They stopped at the store, picked up two fish, Link cooked his fish, and they walked to one of the gazebo structures to eat.
"It's also nice to see how fond of fish you've become," said Mipha. "It's good for you. If we go to Lurelin Village, we can enjoy saltwater fish and crabs. And swimming will be fun too. I am so looking forward to it!"
"You can't think of any reason we can't go, can you?" said Link as he swallowed a bite of fish.
"No, there is nothing special happening now," said Mipha. "Are you sure Queen Zelda doesn't need you? Or perhaps you would like to invite her along?"
"Can I?" said Link. "You don't mind?"
The look Mipha gave him could have frozen Lake Hylia.
"I'm joking," laughed Link quickly. "You think you are the only one who can tease?"
"If you are finished with that burnt thing on your plate, perhaps we can see Father now," said Mipha.
King Dorephan's meeting was over, and they were admitted to the throne room at once.
"Ah, why aren't you two off enjoying yourselves instead of returning here?" said King Dorephan. "Wasn't this morning's meeting long enough for you? Even I felt like diving in the water to get away."
"That is just it, Father," said Mipha. "Link and I would like to take a week-long trip to Lurelin Village if you don't need us here."
"By all means go, and don't give a thought to anything here," said King Dorephan. "You have more than earned some vacation with all you've done for us and Queen Zelda. And I will explain to Sidon, though it may cost you another adventure or two, Link."
"That's fine," laughed Link. "We just had our fifth adventure the other day. So, I'm all caught up."
"Thank you, Father. Then we will say goodbye tonight, and be off tomorrow morning," said Mipha happily. "I need to arrange for a boat."
"I will take care of the boat for you," said King Dorephan. "You want to sail from Lanayru Bay? Just relax and leave things to me. Think of your vacation as starting now."
That night after dinner, they said goodbye, and at the promise of two more adventures with Link, secured Sidon's permission to leave for a week.
The next morning they made their way to the Lanayru Bay shore where a sailboat awaited them.
"You know how to sail, right?" said Mipha.
"I've had some practice," said Link. "More with a raft than a sailboat. But I'm sure I can manage."
"Then let's be off," said Mipha as they pushed the boat into the water, and Link adjusted the sail and rudder to head east out of Lanayru Bay and toward the sea. The wind and weather were both favorable, and Mipha sat by him in the rear of the boat as Link held the rudder and the rope controlling the sail.
As they sailed east out of Lanayru Bay, you could see the majestic snow-covered peak of Mount Lanayru to the south. Mipha and Link exchanged a glance.
"Yes, I remember it too," said Link. "I spent all day with her there and did my best to comfort her as we walked back. But she was beyond comforting at that point, and nothing I could say made a difference. She felt a complete failure. Anyway, that's all in the past now."
They continued into the sea and then turned south past Wintre Island and along the Afromsia Coast.
"We're making good time," said Link. "It's nice, just the two of us on the water."
"Yes, it is," said Mipha snuggling against him. "Do you need help?"
"No, I'm good," said Link. "Unless the wind dies down."
But the wind continued, and Link was able to keep the sailboat on course as they rounded Mapla Point and started heading west. But then the weather began to turn, and looking at an impending storm they decided to break their trip for the day and stay at Hateno Village. They pulled the boat ashore at Hateno Beach and secured it, then made their way laughing to Hateno Village as it began to pour rain. They took shelter under one of the store awnings and watched the rain pour down.
"We should probably just stay here for the night," said Link. "We can start again first thing tomorrow, weather permitting."
"Fine," said Mipha.
They secured beds at the Great Ton Pu Inn, and when the next day dawned bright and sunny, they were soon on their way.
Mipha decided to swim on her back alongside the boat to get in some water time. She seemed to have no trouble keeping up.
"You comfortable?" said Link
"Perfectly, sweetheart," said Mipha. "I'm enjoying the trip there. You?"
"I miss having you sitting next to me to hold," said Link. "But otherwise fine. How much water time do you need?"
"Not too much more," said Mipha. "I can get plenty of water time when we get there. And I promise you that we will have a wonderful time. You will never forget this trip. I guarantee it."
"I'm getting excited just thinking about it," said Link. "I never realized how much it would mean to you."
"You're surprised that I would enjoy a visit to the sea?" said Mipha. She spiraled around once then dove down to the depths, swam quickly upward and burst through the surface high into the air, then fell back gracefully into the water with a splash.
"Ah, that felt good," said Mipha as she swam over to the boat again.
"It looked very acrobatic," said Link. "Very impressive."
They were rounding Soka Point now and heading northwest around Cape Cresia toward Korne Beach and Lurelin Village harbor.
"We're almost there," said Mipha excitedly. "You're coming swimming with me tonight."
"Swimming or 'swimming,'" said Link.
"Hopefully, both," laughed Mipha.
It was late afternoon as Link steered the boat into the harbor and docked it. They had reserved a hut, but Mipha thought she would prefer to sleep in the water whenever possible. But having the hut would be nice, she said smiling.
"How about some porgies for dinner," said Mipha. "I'll catch some."
Mipha caught some porgies and Link built a fire on the beach. He cooked his porgies, and they ate side-by-side as the sun set. Gentle waves rolled in as red and green crabs scurried across the sand and the wind rustled the palm tree leaves.
"I know I love the domain best of all, but this isn't bad either," said Link as they sat side by side, their arms around each other.
"It is beautiful," said Mipha. She leaned over toward him, and they kissed.
"Now are you ready for our swim?" said Mipha.
"Is it safe at night?" said Link.
"When you are with me in the water, you have nothing to fear," said Mipha. "Come."
Mipha took his hand and led him into the sea, and they swam together as the stars appeared. Soon a crescent moon appeared and then Mipha took his hand and led him to a spot in the water.
"Wait here," said Mipha as she dove under the water.
A few moments later, she rose and took his hand.
"Now take a deep breath and hold it," said Mipha.
Link did as she asked, then she dove under the water and pulled him with her. At first, the water was dark, but then a short distance further Link could see a swarm of tiny luminescent creatures. They stopped, and Mipha took her finger, gently drew a heart shape amid the small animals, which pulsed in brighter light as she touched them. The result was an image of a heart pulsing brighter and darker. Then she pointed to herself and Link as if to say she loved him. By then Link needed to surface, and she pulled him quickly to the top.
"That was beautiful, sweetheart," said Link catching his breath.
"It was a Zora expression, sweetheart," laughed Mipha. "And I think you understood it."
"I understand that I love you so much," said Link.
"You must be getting tired," said Mipha. "I'll pull you to shore. We can stay in the hut tonight."
Mipha pulled him ashore, and they made their way to the hut. Link undressed and they climbed into bed together. You could hear the clicking of the palm tree leaves as the wind gently rustled them.
"This is the honeymoon we should have had," said Link. "Better late than never."
"You mean …" said Mipha.
But she never got a chance to finish because Link pressed his lips to hers in a passionate kiss and then they made love. Zora expression lessons could wait, Link thought.
Next morning they had breakfast and then decided to take a walk to Lover's Pond, a heart-shaped body of water near the summit of Tuft Mountain.
They made their way up the path and finally reached the pond itself. It was a quiet spot they had all to themselves.
"Let's sit together here," said Mipha.
They sat at the edge of the pond, their feet dangling into the water.
"You know, legends say that those who find this pond are sure to find their true love," said Link.
"But I didn't need it to find mine," said Mipha as she snuggled against him.
"Neither did I," said Link. "A kiss for good luck?"
They exchanged a kiss, then sat together, enjoying the sunny weather.
"When we are done sitting here, there is a nice view of the seacoast from the top of the mountain," said Link.
"I'd like to sit a little longer," said Mipha as she rested her head against his chest.
"Of course," said Link.
"You know we should enjoy these carefree times we have together," said Mipha. "Once we have a family that will keep us busy."
"So you are thinking about a family too," said Link.
"Yes," said Mipha. "I can tell what a wonderful father you will be."
"I'm ready when you are," said Link. "But I agree, it's nice to be together with each other for now. It's been such a long road for us, so many obstacles to overcome. I thank Hylia every day that we found love with each other."
Mipha looked at him and smiled.
"I followed my heart," said Mipha. "It's what I always believed in doing. And here we are sitting together at Lover's Pond."
Link leaned over, and they kissed, then sat together as a gentle breeze moved the flowers and rippled the water. Finally, they stood up and walked to the summit of Tuft Mountain and enjoyed the view of the seacoast below them. Then it was time to head back. It looked like another storm was approaching.
"I guess we can't swim tonight," said Mipha. "Electrical storms and water are not a good combination."
"That's fine," said Link. "Our hut is cozy. We should go."
They made their way back to their hut before the storm struck, then they stood together, their arms around each other at the hut doorway, and watched as the rain burst forth and the storm began. The rainfall was a heavy one, and the palm leaves swayed back and forth in the wind.
"You know, I used to like it when it rained when you visited with me at the domain," said Mipha. "When we took shelter together, you became more talkative and would open up about yourself, what you were doing, and what you were thinking. I liked that. I worried when you became so quiet, holding everything in."
"Was I?" said Link. "I guess that's right, thinking back. With nothing else to do, I guess I had to talk."
"Yes, it seemed like talking to me was like a last resort," laughed Mipha. "But I understood. And now you've become such a romantic. Who would have believed it?"
"You bring out the best in me," laughed Link.
The storm continued to send waves of rain across the area. Fishers had long since raced to the safety of their huts. And their empty boats bobbed up and down in the harbor as the wind churned up waves. They both stared out at the sea.
"You know, I was reading about Zora history, and at one time there were separate seawater and freshwater Zoras," said Link. "Does anyone know what happened?"
"No, not really," said Mipha. "We must have intermarried long ago and become one race. But I do sometimes wonder about what exists far out to sea beyond what we can see? Who knows what lands or peoples may live there?"
"Someday when travel is faster someone will explore them," said Link. "Maybe during our children's lifetime."
Mipha burst out laughing.
"You do have a one-track mind, don't you?" laughed Mipha.
"You mean a one depth dive?" said Link.
Then they kissed as the storm began to lessen.
"Oh, what's the Zora expression for 'better late than never'?" said Link. "I interrupted you with a kiss."
"Better late than never," said Mipha. "I was going to say that you mean this is truly our honeymoon. But the kiss was nice."
Link burst out laughing.
"Come to bed sweetheart," said Mipha taking his hand. "Before you get tired."