Love In Zora's Domain

by andremoi

This story about Link's and Mipha's married life together is a direct sequel to the story titled 'A Tale of Two Princesses'. In an AU, on the day of the Great Calamity, Mipha put her love for Link and concern for Zelda ahead of Daruk's plan to rush to her Divine Beast. Art is by Nurple(twitter dot com/nurpleynurple)

15. School Trip - Part 1

Chapter 15 – School Trip - Part 1

Summary: To further their children's education, Link's family tours part of Hyrule. Link meets with Purah and learns of some promising research. Mipha and Link meet some old acquaintances, and share some memories along the way.

It was a rainy evening in Zora's Domain, as Mipha met alone with her father, King Dorephan. Her brother Sidon had already gone to sleep for the night and her husband Link was home with their daughter and son, Raypha and Tidon.

King Dorephan was quiet, thinking about what they had just discussed. Then he spoke up.

"I don't know, Mipha," said King Dorephan finally, shaking his head. "I know Sidon would love to go, and the trip would certainly be good for him. He was very disappointed he couldn't accompany you on your visit to Lake Hylia and the sea. But you know how I feel about both of you being away from home at the same time. You can understand that I worry."

"I can understand perfectly, Father, and if you're too uncomfortable, then I certainly won't try to dissuade you," said Mipha. "It was just an idea. But we are traveling through safe areas now, and both Link and I will be looking out for everyone. We're both pretty capable of doing that."

"Yes, I certainly agree with you, sweetheart," said King Dorephan. "There are doubtless none in Hyrule as capable as you two. But you will have three people to look after at the same time."

King Dorephan thought for a moment.

"Very well," said King Dorephan. "I'll agree to let Sidon go with you if you agree to take along two guards for additional security. Would that be acceptable to you?"

"Yes, that would be fine, Father," said Mipha happily. "Thank you. I think everyone will have a great time, and it will be educational too."

"I'll arrange for the two guards. And I'll let Sidon know when he wakes up tomorrow," said King Dorephan. "It's just as well he's gone to sleep. If he knew now, he would probably be too excited to sleep at all!"

Then King Dorephan smiled, reached out, and Mipha came to him as they hugged each other.

"How are you, sweetheart? I must say you look as well and happy as I've ever seen you!"

"I am, Father," said Mipha as they held each other. "Link has been the perfect husband, every bit as kind and loving as I could want. And he has been a wonderful father, too. The children adore him. Raypha looks out for him and takes him under her fin in the water. And Tidon hangs on every word of his stories. I'm truly living my dream, Father."

"And you deserve it, sweetheart," said King Dorephan. "You've done so much for our family, our domain, and Hyrule itself. Nothing makes me happier than to see you enjoy your life with Link and the time with your two lovely children. Speaking of which, you should get home. It's late, and you'll have a busy day tomorrow, so I had better wish you goodnight."

"Goodnight then, Father," said Mipha as she kissed him on the cheek. "I'll see you in the morning when I pick up Sidon."

Mipha left the throne room and paused for a moment at Hylia's statue to say a prayer, at the same time luxuriating in the feel of the steady rain washing over her. Then she walked home, expecting Raypha and Tidon to be fast asleep by now. And when she arrived home, the children were indeed fast asleep. What she didn't expect was to see Link also fast asleep along with them, all three of them floating heads up in Raypha's slumber pool, their arms around each other.

She had to smile. Knowing Link, he had probably gotten into the pool with them to tell them one of his adventure stories, and the inevitable happened. They looked so cute together, the three people in Hyrule she loved the most. She rushed to retrieve the Sheikah Slate Zelda had loaned them, returned, and took a picture. Then she returned to her room, climbed into the slumber pool there, and fell asleep.

Link awoke the next morning to the sound of some noise from the kitchen. The two children were still hanging onto him, fast asleep. He gently pried himself loose without waking them, then made his way to the kitchen.

"Morning, sweetheart," said Link as he went to her, and they kissed.

The rain had stopped by now, and the sun was shining.

"Did you sleep well?" said Mipha.

"Yes, I slept fine. I guess my story was too boring, even for me," said Link.

"You know they love your stories, and I think you were all just tired from all the swimming yesterday. I didn't want to wake you, you three looked so peaceful together," said Mipha. "Father has agreed to let Sidon accompany us if we travel with two guards for security. So, there will be seven of us altogether. I assume you won't mind?"

"No, not at all, it's a good idea," said Link. "I'm glad Sidon is coming with us, and I think the children will have more fun with him along. Besides, while Sidon keeps the children company, I can also keep an eye out for any possible danger though I don't expect any."

"That's settled, then," said Mipha. "We can leave later this morning, and we should stick to water as much as possible. That will be the most comfortable for the children, and I know you can manage with our help. Also, we don't have to hurry from place to place. We can take our time and pace ourselves."

"Yes, of course," said Link. "We want Sidon and the children to see Hyrule, and the journey itself is part of their education, not just the destination."

"Very well said," said Mipha. "Are you as excited I am?"

"I am," said Link. "It's a nice break from lessons for all of us, and a vacation of sorts for the two of us. It will be fun revisiting some places we haven't been to in quite a while. Did I ever tell you how much I love traveling with you?"

"I know you do," laughed Mipha. "And the same goes for me."

"I planned our route based on what we talked about earlier," said Link.

"That's great," said Mipha. "But let's wait for the children and share it with them too. I have a Hearty Bass here ready for you."

It was a short time later that Raypha and Tidon made their way to the kitchen, and after good morning hugs, Mipha explained their plan.

"Hooray!" said Tidon. "Uncle Sidon is coming too!"

"Yes, and I can see how excited you are," said Link. "I'm sure you'll have fun with him, and he will benefit from seeing more of Hyrule too."

"Maybe you can go over the route now, so everyone knows what to expect," said Mipha. "I'll let Father know when I pick Sidon up."

"Yes, of course," said Link. "Since we want to travel in water as much as possible, I suggest we take the Rutala River north to Castle Town, then spend a short time there. After that, we can travel southward down the Regencia River to Jeddo Bridge. From there, we need to go on foot for a while, but, weather permitting at some point on our trip there or back perhaps we can visit Sanidin Park, where there is a breathtaking view to the east, and Satori Mountain, which has a beautiful grove with delicate pink flowers. It's a good walk from Jeddo Bridge to the Tabantha Bridge Stable, but we can take our time. From there, we can travel on horseback to Rito Village, perhaps stopping on the way to visit one of the Great Fairies. Afterward, again weather permitting, perhaps we can do some shield surfing. We can return home by a more southerly route past the Great Plateau and the Hylia River, across the Lanayru Wetlands, and back to the domain. If we feel up to it, we can even take a small detour and visit Kakariko Village."

"It's a pretty ambitious plan, but I think you are all old enough now," said Mipha. "And don't worry about the cold. I have warm clothing for everyone if needed."

"Surf boarding in the snow sounds like fun!" said Tidon.

"It is," said Link. "But I think you will also be impressed by how beautiful Hyrule is, and you can learn some history along the way. Even places we can't visit, we can see from a distance and discuss."

"Yes," said Mipha. "Of course, we want you to enjoy the trip and have fun, but it's intended to be educational too."

"I'm excited to see some of the places Dad told us about in his stories," said Raypha. "We were all tired last night, Dad. It wasn't that your story was uninteresting."

"That's nice of you to say, sweetheart," said Link. "But maybe I made the story too long for so late at night."

"After we finish breakfast, I'll go get Uncle Sidon and the two guards who will be accompanying us," said Mipha. "Then we can be on our way."

"I can't wait!" said Tidon.

Mipha made her way back to the throne room, and Sidon ran to her and into her arms.

"Thanks so much, Sis!" said Sidon. "Father said you convinced him to let me go too."

Mipha hugged him and kissed him on his forehead.

"You know we always love to spend time with you if we can," said Mipha. "We're counting on you to be a big uncle on this trip as well as have some fun."

"You can count on me, Sis," said Sidon proudly, and flashing a grin.

He loved it when they treated him as one of the grown-ups!

"Let's say goodbye to Father then, and we can start," said Mipha.

"You're ready to leave?" said King Dorephan. "Be safe, and Sidon, listen to Mipha and Link. Oh, I assigned as your guards two people you and Link know. I thought that would make for a more enjoyable trip for you both."

After goodbye hugs, Mipha took Sidon's hand and made their way to the foot of the stairs where two Zora guards stood waiting to join them. She recognized them at once: it was Rivan and Gaddison, two members of the Big Bad Bazz Brigade that Link used to get himself in trouble with.

"Lady Mipha, Prince Sidon," said Rivan, bowing his head. "We are your security detail, and honored to be of service."

"Well, this is a nice surprise," said Mipha. "We will be guarded by two of Link's old brigade friends. I imagine this will make Link happy."

"I hope you are pleased as well, Lady Mipha," said Gaddison. "As your loyal subjects, we take our duty of protecting our Royal Family very seriously."

"Forgive me, Gaddison," said Mipha. "I didn't mean to imply I wasn't pleased as well. I only meant that I am sure Link will enjoy having you two as companions, people he grew up with and knows so well. Link loves to reminisce with all of you and relive some of the many, how shall I put it, pranks you were all prone to do back in the day. But shall we go?"

They all met at the house, and Link was indeed pleasantly surprised.

"Gaddison and Rivan!" said Link when he saw them, and they exchanged hugs. "So, we have a partial brigade reunion. This should be fun!"

"We're happy to be of service," said Gaddison.

"One of us will swim ahead, and the other stay behind you," said Rivan. "We are ready whenever you are."

They made their way to the lower level of the domain, Gaddison dove in first and took the lead.

"A kiss to start the journey?" said Link.

"Always," laughed Mipha as they kissed. "It's funny how some Zora customs you picked up instantly!"

Then the rest of the party dove in, and Rivan brought up the rear.

It was comfortable swimming in the favorable current from Ruto Lake to the Zora River and down to the Rutala River. Link swam next to Mipha, while Sidon swam with Tidon and Raypha, playing some games.

"We can start the educational aspects of the trip when we get further away from the Domain," said Mipha. "Let them have fun for now."

"Of course," said Link.

The weather was perfect, and they made excellent time in the fast current. Rivan swam over to Mipha and Link.

"We would like you to stop at Woodland Stable," said Rivan. "Gaddison and I will scout ahead, then return when we confirm it's safe. Agreed?"

"Of course," said Mipha. "You two are in charge of security."

So, the five family members stopped at Woodland Stable, while Rivan conferred with Gaddison, and Link saw them swim further down the river toward the castle.

Someone Link recognized was sweeping up, and she stopped and approached him.

"Link, isn't it?" said Brena. "Do you remember me? I took care of Epona and Her Majesty's horse."

"Of course I remember you," said Link. "This is my family, my wife Mipha, brother-in-law Sidon, and children Raypha and Tidon."

Everyone exchanged greetings.

"What a lovely family!" said Brena. "But it's been some time since you traveled here with the then Princess of Hyrule, hasn't it? I couldn't believe my eyes seeing her alive, and I still remember the shock and happiness that washed over me then. I suddenly was filled with hope. I pray for Her Majesty's success every day."

"Yes, it's been a while now, but your outpouring of support came at just the right moment for her and made her feel more optimistic as well," said Link. "We're just stopping here for a moment, but it's good to see you again, Brena. I'll say hello to Her Majesty for you when I get a chance. I know she will remember you."

Just then, Gaddison and Rivan returned, indicating it was safe to proceed. Link and the family said goodbye and were soon underway again. As before, Mipha swam next to Link.

"I met Brena a couple of times," said Link. "Once, when I picked up Epona here before my battle with Ganon, and then afterward with Zelda to pick up her horse right after our victory. They had brought our horses here from Outskirt Stable."

The rest of the swim was uneventful, and they arrived in Castle Town in time for a late lunch. While they could have caught fish along the way, Mipha and Link wanted Sidon and the children to experience eating at a restaurant. Gaddison and Rivan excused themselves, saying that they preferred to grab a fish or two from the moat, and they would meet them by the fountain later. Then Mipha and Link selected a seafood restaurant called the Castle Catch. The host welcomed them, and seated all five of them at a large table toward the back, leaving menus on the table. The restaurant was about half full, the rest of the patrons all Hylians.

"Now, your father thinks of himself as the expert on proper Hyrule etiquette," said Mipha to the children. "So, as he felt compelled to point out to me, when we eat publicly with Hylians, we need to eat our fish cooked."

"Ugh!" said Tidon. "Really, Mom? Why do we have to eat here, then? I passed up some tasty looking fish on the way here because you told us to save our appetite."

"Consider this part of your education," said Mipha.

"Why do Hylians get so upset at the way we eat, though?" said Tidon.

"Most Hylians can't stomach the idea of eating fish raw," said Link. "It makes them feel sick seeing it."

"I know it's strange," said Mipha. "But, for example, we find the idea of Goron's eating rocks hard to swallow. Sorry for the bad pun. So, when we eat out at a restaurant like this, we have to eat our fish cooked. But we can ask them to cook it as lightly as possible."

"Is the same true for crabs and shellfish?" said Raypha.

"Mostly," said Link.

The waiter stopped by and introduced himself, then took their order.

"The decorations are nice, at least," said Raypha looking around.

On the walls were pictures of various aquatic creatures, different species of fish, crabs, and snails. When the meal came, Sidon, Raypha, and Tidon picked at it carefully but managed to finish, with the help of several glasses of water.

"All right," said Mipha, noticing their rueful expression. "We won't force you to eat any more meals like this. But at least you have the experience."

"It wasn't too bad," said Tidon. "It just had so little taste."

"Sometimes, we Hylians season our food with salt or spice to add flavor," said Link.

Link had asked for the bill and was paying when he heard a familiar voice.

"Link! And Mipha! What a surprise!"

"Dr. Purah?" said Link as he turned.

Purah was there with Robbie about to have lunch.

Link introduced his family, then Purah said she needed to speak with Link about something.

"I'll take them," said Mipha. "We can all meet at the fountain."

"Here, sit with us for a moment, Link," said Purah. "Robbie, order me some grilled Staminoka Bass if the waiter comes by."

Purah turned back to Link.

"You may have heard, our lab is all rebuilt now, and we've resumed our research," said Purah. "And thank Hylia, my sister Impa isn't looking over my shoulder but has decided to stay in Kakariko Village. Anyway, I've been doing some thinking about something that will no doubt be of interest to you, having married a Zora."

"You know, Dr. Purah, you shouldn't discuss this yet," said Robbie.

"Yes, yes," said Purah with a wave of her hand. "It's still very preliminary and very much only at the development stage, but I feel I am on the right track."

"What is it then?" said Link.

Purah looked around the restaurant and lowered her voice.

"I'm working on an age reducing rune," said Purah. "If perfected, it can reduce one's age, essentially extending one's lifespan. I thought it would help us keep our military young and healthy, but then I thought about you too. You're the only Hylian I know who married a Zora, and you age so much faster. I thought this would be of great benefit to you too."

"Indeed, it would!" said Link excitedly. "I think about it sometimes, growing old so much faster than my family. But Mipha refuses to talk about it. I think it upsets her, and she doesn't want to face it."

"Try not to say anything about it yet," said Purah. "I don't want to give out too many false hopes. But I thought I should at least tell you. So, don't lose heart."

"Thank you," said Link. "I take heart from this and appreciate you telling me. But my family's waiting and I should go now. Goodbye, Robbie."

Link made his way outside, then walked to the central fountain where everyone was already waiting. However, there were two Royal Guardsmen there as well.

"I'm sorry, Sir, but our orders are to bring you and your family to the castle," said the guard speaking to Link.

"What?" said Link. "What for?"

"I'm sorry, Sir, but I was only told you committed some inappropriate actions," said the guard. "I imagine the details of the charge will be read to you there. Please, follow me."

It looked serious for a moment, but behind Link's back, the second guard smiled and gave Mipha a wink.

"I'm sorry, Lady Mipha and Link," said Rivan. "But, this is outside our jurisdiction."

"What did Dad do now?" whispered Tidon to Mipha as they walked behind.

"Don't worry. Everything will be fine," whispered Mipha to the children as they followed.

"This is ridiculous!" said Link, muttering to himself. "Inappropriate actions?"

The family made their way to the castle, and when they crossed the entrance were shocked to see Zelda waiting for them there.

"You can leave the miscreant in my custody now, Ralton," said Zelda.

"Yes, Your Majesty," said Ralton. He and the other guard bowed and left.

"Your Majesty, I mean Zelda, what's going on?" said Link.

"It should be a crime for you to bring your family to Castle Town and not visit me," said Zelda. "Quite a serious one, in my opinion. One of my guards noticed you and your family, and word reached me. Your two friends were in on the ruse."

"I'm sorry, Zelda," said Link. "We were just taking the family on an educational tour, and it was kind of last minute. I felt funny bothering you about it."

"So, you admit intent as well, Captain Link," said Zelda. "Well, the punishment should fit the crime, and that is that all of you are invited to dinner with me and can spend the night here at the castle. Now, I want hugs from everyone. And Sidon, Raypha and Tidon, I can't believe how much you've grown already!"

"Hi, Aunt Zelda," said Raypha as she hugged Zelda. The others exchanged hugs as well.

"By the way, I had the guards invite Rivan and Gaddison to join us, but they said they would have more fun together in Castle Town," said Zelda. "Now, since your trip is educational, perhaps I could give you a brief tour of part of the castle before we have dinner? Shall we go?"

Zelda led the way, and took them through the rooms on the first level, giving a little background to each.

"I have to say, the castle looks great, Zelda," said Link as he surveyed the rooms and remembered the terrible condition they were in. "You're making a lot of progress on such a massive job."

"I've been diverting most resources into rebuilding towns and villages first," said Zelda. "Once the castle became livable again, I felt the priority was our people. Oh, and restoring the Royal Lab was important as well. I know Purah and Robbie were very eager to resume their research."

"Of course," said Link. "That's very proper. And I ran into Purah and Robbie in the restaurant earlier."

While they walked down the hallway toward the next room, Mipha spoke with Zelda.

"Are you comfortable here now, Zelda?" said Mipha.

"I'm getting better," said Zelda. "Of course, this place holds a good many memories for me. As before in Kakariko Village, the key is keeping busy and looking toward the future."

Zelda then resumed her tour.

"We call this the observation room, for obvious reasons," said Zelda as she led them up the stairs to the viewing platform, which provided an excellent view of the castle entrance and Castle Town beyond.

"I remember coming here as a little girl to look out at Castle Town, wondering what all the people were doing there, imagining all the wonderful goods from all over Hyrule that must be in the shops there," said Zelda. "When I was older and could go there, it turned out to be less exciting than my young imagination. But this is a nice vantage point."

"There's the restaurant we ate at!" said Sidon, pointing to the location.

"Please don't remind me," said Tidon. "Yuck!"

"Tidon! If you don't mind your manners, you are going to sit out the rest of this tour!" said Mipha.

"I'm sorry," said Tidon.

"I apologize, Zelda," said Link. "The children were not very fond of cooked fish. It's an acquired taste for Zora's, I imagine."

"No apology needed," laughed Zelda. "Shall we go on?"

"We can skip the dining hall since we will be eating there later," said Zelda.

They walked to the eastern side of the castle.

"Unfortunately, much of the artwork was irreparably destroyed," said Zelda. "Now and then, we find something in the rubble that survived. But here is our library. The structure was rather badly damaged, but fortunately, almost all the books survived and just needed some cleaning and re-shelving."

"This is amazing!" said Raypha as she saw the enormous number of books. "It would take forever to read all these!"

"Yes, it certainly would!" said Zelda. "But there is a good deal of reference material here. There are books on the history of Hyrule, stories about past legends, books on science, including the various plants and animals that live here. And there is a section on mathematics and astronomy. There are also works of fiction and poetry here. It's the finest collection of books in the kingdom, built up over many years."

They walked along the lower floor.

"Behind that panel is my father's study," said Zelda. "I found his diary there, still intact, and reading it brought me some closure. He felt he couldn't show his love for me out of a sense of duty as king, and I understand that better now. I'm not sure I would have made the same choice with a daughter of mine. But all that is in the past."

"Where do these other metal panels lead, Aunt Zelda?" said Tidon.

"Oh, some lead underground to the dock," said Zelda. "Perhaps on another visit we can tour some of the more remote parts of the castle. I need to give your parents an incentive to return here with you."

"Oh, come on," laughed Link. "You know we love to visit. But point taken."

"You know, should you ever be inclined, the children are very welcome to study here when they're older," said Zelda. "I can arrange for tutors, and as you can see, we do have the finest library in Hyrule. I would love to have them here, as well as both of you whenever you wish."

"That's very generous, Zelda," said Mipha. "We will certainly consider it when they're old enough to be away from home for a while."

"I think we should head back to the dining room," said Zelda. "I imagine everyone is hungry by now."

They made their way back to the dining hall, and a buffet meal had already been set up.

"Once I learned you were here, I was going to have some fish dishes prepared," said Zelda. "But then I luckily remembered Zora's like to eat their fish raw. So, I arranged for dinner buffet style, and there is a selection of both cooked fish as well as raw fish on ice for anyone who prefers it."

"Hooray!" shouted Tidon, and Mipha gave him a look.

"Thank Hylia, you're not Gorons, or we would have to search for the best rocks," laughed Zelda. "Shall we help ourselves and sit down? It's very informal."

Everyone took a plate and helped themselves.

"I use this room for larger meetings as well," said Zelda. "They did a fine job restoring it. My father sometimes had large state dinners here with ministers and dignitaries from all over Hyrule in attendance. When I was old enough, I joined those meetings for the experience. When I was young, I had some birthday party's here with friends. Now this large room is mostly empty. But perhaps in time, it will be full again."

The rest of the dinner conversation centered on what the children were learning in their studies.

"It sounds like you're doing a fine job teaching them," said Zelda. "And Sidon, I notice you speak very well."

"My father arranged lessons for me," said Sidon. "Do you know my father very well, Aunt Zelda?"

"No, not very well, Sidon," said Zelda. "He and my father were good friends, though, and for a long time. My father always spoke highly of yours as a wise and gracious ruler. I hope I can do as well for Hyrule. I'm sure he is also a good father to you and your sister."

"He is," said Mipha.

"And I am sure Link is a good father, too," added Zelda. "It's wonderful to see all of you as such a happy family. You're what I want for all of Hyrule, the chance for people to be safe and able to live happy and productive lives."

The dinner conversation went on until the children showed signs of being tired.

"I think our younger ones need some rest," said Mipha.

"Oh, of course," said Zelda. "Sidon has the room right next to yours. Do you remember where it is? Or I can ask a guard to escort you."

"I remember," said Mipha. "Sidon, why don't you and I take the children back to our room and give Uncle Link a moment with Zelda."

They exchanged good night hugs, then Mipha, Sidon, Raypha, and Tidon left.

Link turned to Zelda then.

"How are you, really, Zelda?" said Link.

"It's just as I told you," said Zelda. "I'm doing well. Don't worry. I'm not prowling the halls at night or sleepwalking."

"You said you wanted everyone in Hyrule to have the chance for a happy life," said Link. "If I may be so bold, Zelda, that is what all of us want for you as well. I worry that you're lonely here. I apologize for asking, but is there no one in your life yet?"

"Oh, I see what you mean," said Zelda. "Well, it's a little difficult for me to go on dates. But there is someone in my life. It's still too early to tell, but we've grown close. I met him before the Calamity when his father served as one of the Royal Guards who protected my father. His father died along with mine. He's quite nice and handsome too. So, don't worry. I do have a life."

"I'm glad to hear it," said Link. "And forgive me for butting into what isn't my business."

"I know why you asked, and it's sweet of you," said Zelda touching him on the cheek. "I know you still care about me, Link. I can read it in your eyes, and I'm happy that you do. You will always be special to me as well. So, don't apologize. But don't worry either. I'm doing fine. Now, you had better run along to your family. I have meetings in the morning, but I'll pop out to say goodbye. And next time you visit Castle Town, you had better let me know, or I will have you arrested for disobeying a royal command!"

"I promise, Your Majesty," laughed Link.

They reached out and hugged each other good night, then Link made his way back to their room, while Zelda made her way back to hers. Zelda took a moment to update her diary, then got ready for bed.

"Where are the children?" said Link when he arrived at their room.

"Sleeping over with Uncle Sidon," said Mipha. "They're right next door. Is Zelda all right?"

"Yes, and it seems she met someone," said Link. "I'm glad."

"Come to bed," said Mipha. "Tomorrow is another long day."

The next morning they had a brief goodbye.

"Visit again soon," said Zelda. "I enjoyed seeing you."

"We will," said Mipha. "Thank you for spending so much time with us. We enjoyed it, too."

They made their way to the castle moat, and dove in, then swam to the western side of the castle until it flowed into the Regencia River.

"What was it like when you and Dad journeyed here on your mission?" said Raypha.

"The countryside looked the same, but you had to beware of enemies," said Mipha. "There were flying machines with energy ray weapons, and monsters lurking about here and there. You just had to keep your eyes open for danger."

As they swam, you could make out the newly rebuilt walls of the Royal Ancient Lab.

"Quite an improvement!" said Link. "Purah must be happy."

"Speaking of Purah, what did she want to speak to you about at the restaurant?" said Mipha.

"Oh, something still very much in the development stage," said Link.

"Go on," said Mipha.

"Purah feels she might be able to develop a Sheikah Slate rune that would reduce one's age, make one younger again."

"You weren't going to tell me about that?" said Mipha.

"I wanted to, but I wasn't sure I should," said Link. "I know how sensitive the subject is to you, and I didn't want to raise false hopes. But anyway, let's keep our fingers or fins crossed."

"Yes, and I'll add a prayer to Hylia," said Mipha.

They passed under the Carok Bridge, which had been rebuilt to stand sturdier.

"What's that glow in the distance, Dad," said Tidon, swimming back next to Link and Mipha.

"That light comes from atop Satori Mountain," said Link. "It's a beautiful location, and if you're lucky, you can see what some refer to as Satori or the Lord of the Mountain. It's said that Satori was once a sage, and now watches over the animals that dwell in the forest. Satori glows a bright blue that can be seen from a great distance. As I said before we began, I was hoping we would be able to visit Satori Mountain if time permits."

Tidon swam back to Sidon and Raypha and explained the light to them. They continued to follow the river past the stone overpass that connected Mount Gustafson to the West Hyrule Plains.

"Do you remember when we came here?" said Link to Mipha as they swam side-by-side.

"I remember everything about our trip together, sweetheart," said Mipha. "But I like this trip much better!"

"So do I," laughed Link. "So do I."

The river curved southward, then divided into the Tamio River to the west and the Regencia River to the east. They turned west following the Tamio River as far as the Jeddo Bridge, which stood high above. There was a flat area of land directly beneath the bridge.

"We should rest here," said Link. "We have a long climb ahead of us."

Link swam ashore, but the rest of the group remained in the water. When everyone indicated they were rested enough, Link spoke.

"Now, take your time," said Link. "Mom and I will be right alongside you to help, Raypha, and Tidon. Sidon, if you get uncomfortable climbing, just stop, and I'll come back for you. All right, everyone?"

Everyone agreed.

"I'll climb up first," said Rivan as he began. "Give me a moment."

"Now, for my sake, let's hope it doesn't rain," said Link to Mipha. "I know you Zoras can climb in the rain, but I sure can't."

Fortunately, there was no rain, and they finally made their way to the top alongside the Jeddo Bridge. A Winterwing Butterfly fluttered out of reach as they stood up and looked over the area.

"Wow! Look at all those ring-shaped rocks!" said Tidon.

"Yes, it was a shrine challenge," said Link. "You need to shoot an arrow through two rings."

"Can you show us how you did it, Dad?" said Tidon. "And when I'm older, will you teach me to shoot a bow?"

"Yes, I'll teach you," said Link. "I'll teach Raypha too. But maybe Sidon would like to try? You've had some basic archery training, Sidon. Since we're short on time and have a long walk ahead, let me give you a hint where to stand."

Link directed Sidon to the location where you could frame a shot, and after three tries, Sidon pierced both rings with an arrow.

"Well done!" said Mipha as Sidon beamed and flashed a big grin.

"That was great, Sidon," said Link. "Now, we had better start walking. It's going to take the rest of the day to reach the Tabantha Bridge Stable on foot."

"We'll be fine," said Mipha. "We all got in enough water time."

"It's my turn to take the lead," said Gaddison.

After giving her a head start, the rest of the group began the walk north past grassy hills and small clumps of trees. Then the road forked, and they turned west. The giant mushroom-shaped trees of the Serres Scablands loomed on their right. Pink and Blue-Winged Herons strutted alongside the way, then took to flight as they approached. The occasional fox could also be seen just off the road. Gaddison walked a few paces ahead, then Sidon walked between Raypha and Tidon, holding their hands. Then Mipha walked with Link, and Rivan followed behind.

"They look so cute, don't they?" said Link nodding toward the children.

"Yes," said Mipha. "And my brother loves playing the big uncle to them."

The road was empty, save only for one horseman who rode by going in the opposite direction. He nodded to them but continued on his way without slowing down.

Finally, the road curved to the north, and you could just barely make out Divine Beast Vah Medoh from behind one of the giant trees, and the horse-shaped roof of a stable. Seeing their destination close at hand, everyone picked up the pace a bit. Even so, it was sunset when they reached the stable.

The stable wasn't busy, and Link arranged for beds for everyone, Raypha, and Tidon doubling up, as did he and Mipha. Rivan and Gaddison said they would take turns sleeping.

Medoh was now clearly visible, and everyone stopped to look.

"What a huge bird!" said Tidon.

"This is the second Divine Beast you've seen," said Mipha. "Do you recall the names of the other two?"

The two children repeated their names, Rudania and Naboris, in unison.

"Good," said Mipha. "Now, I have some fish for each of you, then you need to sleep. We have another long day tomorrow."

"Do any of you need more water time first?" said Link. "There are usually some shallow pools of water in the gully's nearby."

"No, we should all be good until tomorrow," said Mipha.

The two children ate a fish each, then went to bed.

"And no talking or fooling around," said Link. "You do need to rest."

"Of course, Dad," said Tidon.

"It's pretty safe here, I would imagine," said Link to Rivan.

"I'm sure it is, Link," said Rivan.

"But we prefer to be very sure," said Gaddison.

"I hope we have some time for us to chat," said Link. "I was hoping we could reminisce a little."

"Perhaps later in the trip," said Rivan. "I think everyone is tired after that long walk. Get some sleep, Link. We'll be fine, and we can chat later, or when we get home."

Link joined Mipha, and the bed was so small you had to cuddle right against each other.

"These beds aren't made for two," said Link.

"It may not be as good as water," laughed Mipha. "But at least we're close together."

"Yes, and it tends to encourage what you call my amorous impulses," laughed Link.

"Which I'm afraid we both have to control, sweetheart, under the sleeping circumstances," said Mipha as she held him tighter.

They both soon fell asleep holding each other.

The next morning dawned bright and sunny. Link awoke first, and Mipha was wrapped around him, her arms and legs both holding him. She looked so peacefully asleep that he didn't dare move. The stable was reasonably quiet, and the only sounds some birds and the occasional neigh from one of the horses as the stable hand fed them. Finally, Mipha opened her eyes and saw Link looking at her. She squeezed him tighter and smiled.

"This is very nice and cozy, isn't it?" said Mipha.

"It kind of makes me not want to get up," said Link.

Just then they heard some noise.

"I'm going to smack you, Tidon," said Raypha. "You keep hitting me in the head with your tail fin. You were doing it almost all night!"

"Sorry, it's not my fault, Ray," said Tidon. "I'm used to moving around at night in the water."

Sidon had been asleep, then awoke to the conversation.

"Looks like it's time to get up," laughed Link.

"Yes, indeed," laughed Mipha.

They went over to the children's bed.

"I'm sorry about the bed," said Link. "I know it's made for a Hylian. But it was just for one night, and you can sleep in the water tonight. And today it should be more fun. For one thing, we're going to ride horses. I'll take one of you with me, and Mom will take the other. Then we are going to visit one of the four Great Fairies, and you can spend some water time in Strock Lake. By the evening, we will reach Rito Stable, maybe even Rito Village."