Here's the next chapter to celebrate the one year release of Majora's Mask 3D! Thanks so much for the review and fav by the way. I'm glad you're enjoying this!
Anyway, this is the last chapter where Mikau is a baby. Although I wanted to skip ahead a few years to show him as a playful "guppy" (term use o describe a young Zoran child) there are certain scenes where its require for me to do while Mikau is still a squeaky little tadpole. Plus it'll be confusing if I skip a few years ahead, so there.
Love ya! Have fun!
I do not work for Nintendo. Otherwise, the remake of Majora's Mask wouldn't have so many unnecessary changes like bosses with big goofy eyes or nerf Zora swimming...
Syolannika, 8:30 pm
Blue wide eyes view the detailed, underwater realm of the Zoras as his mother escorted his back to their home. The baby Sea Deity follow closely, struggling to in his feeble attempts at swimming. His vision blurred occasionally and he'd had difficults staying awake Ruuna stay close to him, using great fins as a resting platform for her tiny Zora pup. but the sights around him were too much to resist. Although ready to sleep, Mikau couldn't resist swimming off coarse to investigate the many wonders around him.
The night were illuminated by an entire city that look like a cyberpunk version of Atlantis, glowing blue, aquamarine, and purple. The city stretch for thousands of miles, connecting with other smaller Sylovaakien metropolises and Domains. It was very beautiful civilization to behold! Mountainous seascape stretch as far as the eye could see, protecting the entire city and surrounding wilderness in their towering might.
Colorful shells were all over the place, some even swimming. A hostle Shell Blade came dangerous close to the tiny pup, however, but his brave Mommy-Zora was there to defend him. She growl, urging Mikau to remain hidden in a small crevice which he gladly did. With her great speed and agility, she dodge the charging attack from the crazed mollusk. Angry, the deadly creature open its shell as if to roar, exposing his soft insides. Taking her chance, Ruuna rush at him in blinding speed. With a mighty swing of her arm, her blade slash right through the fleshy interior, cutting the Shell Blade in half. With the danger over, Ruuna squeak to encourage her son to come out of hiding. Mikau shakily emerge, spooked by the terrifying encounter. As Ruuna swam to his side and snuggle him, the baby Zora's fears melted away.
Neon bubble ooze from everywhere, ranging from tiny spheres to mammoth orbs, some in which the little Zora actually found himself trapped in. "Meep!" He floated all over the place in them, watching the schools of nocturnal fish, squids, and giant jellyfishes wiz pass him, leaving trail of bubbles and light from their bio-luminescence. An elder cuttlefish watch him from her little cave, rumbling in her laughter at the adorable display. It was a fun little ride to say the least, until his Mommy-Zora came and pop the bubble, freeing him from his exciting mode of transportation. No fun. He continue to follow her, nipping her ankle fins for the fun of it.
Unfortunately, his fun is often cut short with frequent stops, unable to push on. He always struggle to keep up with his mother, and yet he desperately will himself to follow. Instinct to swim alongside his parent had made him determine to not give up, but alas he was only a feeble Zora runt. He didn't have the same energy as a normal tadpole of the same age. He settle himself down on a large reef station, laying flat on his belly as he close his eyes, emitting tiny, barely audible squeaks. The sapphire symbols glowed dimly.
Ruuna stop and peer over her shiny, brightly lit shoulder to see if her son is still following. She swam at a painfully slow pace so he'll be able to keep up and rest on her if he needed to. Though, the baby lag back and was slump on colorful rock. She swam over, gently blowing soft bubbles at his puny face to wake him up. The response was a squeaky sneeze from the Tadpole, who upon seeing his mother wag his tail the best he could. Poor thing. Ruuna tuck him in her arms and rock him slowly while staying afloat.
"Come on Mikau, you have to swim to build up your strength. It'll do you some good"
Mikau stared back at her with heavy eyelids. His gills slowly exhale the water he was breathing and his tail only twitch in response to her words. Ruuna sigh and lightly press her nose against his little muzzle, her body rumbling as she purred reassuringly. She soon turn around and bolted for the upper class district behind the underwater mountains, where their home resides in. Zoras immediately parted ways for Ruuna as their their Alpha Female zip past them without so much a word. Her top priority is to get Mikau back to his family where he'll receive extra care.
Ruuna glide over the mountains and saw the various homes and neighborhood hidden beyond the dense forest of coral and numerous glades. Using her large pectoral fins, she elegantly twist her body as she preform a barrel roll during a dive, since Sylovaakien Zoras do not have tail lobes to help them turn.
Mikau perk slightly at the sudden action. Everything around him is moving in circles! He close his eyes and instinctively press himself closer to Ruuna's chest. Frigid cold water brush at his face and bubbles obscure his vision. He felt his mother jerk upward slightly and swivel her fins. Opening his eyes, Mikau chirp while his mother dodge the tree-like coral, swirling left to right, up and down. He grew wide eyed when she suddenly backflip over a large sunken ship and dart her way through its old watch tower. Powdery golden snow bellow in glowing, starry clouds whenever her strong legs and flippers pound the blanketed sea floor as she race near the bottom. Despite he weak state, Mikau wanted to wiggle free and taste some of the yellow stuff. But just like that, the forest gave way and large houses came into view, line in a neat row.
Zoran Heroes swam about, and they often stop to greet Ruuna, only to be surprise at the sight Mikau in her arms. Ruuna kept moving, scanning the large neighborhood for any sign of her residence. After a few minutes of searching, she finally spots her domain within the suburban jungle. She zoom towards it, careful not to scare Mikau too much as made it to her house. A couple of her sons and her two remaining daughters were currently outside slinking and frolicking about with their father, so it came as no surprise for them to greet them upon her arrival.
"Mom, you're back!" one of her sons said in relief. His fins flutter excitedly in greeting as the two Zoras nuzzle their noses together. His face fell though when he saw his brother. "Is he ok?" the Zora said as he address the tightly curl Zora pup in her embrace. "He doesn't look so good."
"He is still very weak after hatching last night," Ruuna softly grunted as she held her tiny infant closer. A few stray snow flakes sway around her and land on Mikau. He jerk with a start, but drift back into a shaky sleep. "Come on. We have to get him inside and have him look after. Right now he's going to need all the care he could receive."
Nicoda casually walk over to Ruuna. Their son still look miserable, but at least he didn't appear frighten anymore. Deep down, however, he was still concern for the pup's future. Watching him now, its hard to imagine that he of all Zoras was chosen to be Nayru's knight. Seeing Ruuna perk at his approach, the bull spoke with a small grin. "I see you made your promise. I'm very glad he made it through the night. However...he... still needs a name." 'I can't just tell her of the prophecy Nayru showed me, at least not yet.' Nicoda thought to himself. 'She'll only go into a panic, or worse... I'll have to for the right moment...'
Ruuna smile, stroking her runt with a finger as her older children cooed over their baby brother. "I thinking the name Mikau would be a perfect fit."
"Mikau?"
"Mmhm. It means Night, and I thought it would be appropriate since were are nocturnal Zoras. Plus its a way to pay tribute with our respected ancestors who shares similar names."
Thinking, Nicoda remember the vision of the Sea Deity back at the Temple, and seeing how Mikuru and Miaku were both Sea Deities, nodded his head. It was actually an interesting name that fits perfectly. "Couldn't thought of a better name myself."
Meanwhile noises from in front and above briefly caught Mikau's attention. The baby peered from his spot to gaze at the group of Zoras. One came over and tilts her head in his direction. Although tire and shaking, he copy her curiously, and she emitted a cross between a high pitched trill and a giggle, making him hide in his Mommy-Zora's arms, his eyes peeking frightfully. "How cute!" she chirped, rubbing her index finger on his slippery forehead.
Mikau felt his Mommy-Zora swim into the building, her pack following and swimming by her side. His Big Sister resume to petting his tiny head, purring to keep him calm. Mikau soon doze off as his Big-Sister continued to stroke him. He huddle close to his mother, her chest was nice and smooth against his soft squishy body.
Four hours later
The baby Zora barely open an eye as someone tapped him lightly on his back, making sure he is still with them. He heave pitifully, a hoarse squeak barely above a whisper as he struggle to move. He remain where he was, laying on his side in his nursery and barely awake most of the time. A big brother watch him through the glass, one hand in the tank, the other holding an eye dropper fill with plankton and Zoran egg whites. Mikau felt himself being lifted off the soft sandy bottom, fidgeting more actively as he became more aware of his surroundings.
His Big Brother, Neoa, sat on the chair made out of various sea shells. His own pups, Nalna and Spuuk, peer from their dad's shoulder to see their tiny relative. Poising his little brother on his lap and supporting him with his hand, Neoa place the eye dropper just in front of Mikau's tiny mouth. The baby Zora sniff weakly at it, but didn't bother to nip it. His eyes just stared back at his older sibling in an apparent daze.
"C'mon, Mik," Neoa said as he adjusted his arm with the pup while poking the hatchling's snout with the eye dropper. "Please eat already. You hadn't had anything when you came into the world last night. Aren't you hungry?"
When Mikau still refuses to take any samples, the adult male signed. He nudge the little tykes who were scuffling about on his shoulder, trying to bypass their father to get a closer look at the runt half their size. Being Tadpoles themselves, they were eager to play with the sick pup. His gaze fell on his teenage sister sitting on the coral-made couch a ways away from him. She already seem ready to help with his problem, her markings lighting up in response.
The female Sylovaakien Zora, named Aditu, came over from her spot on the couch and help Neoa to gently open Mikau's mouth, showing his little sharp teeth. With his mouth open, the male Zora encourage his younger sibling to bite the eye dropper, and when he finally did, he began feeding as if it were a bottle. It was odd for the Zoras to see one of the own kind feeding like a mammal would, but he was too weak to find his food and this seems to be the most effective way of providing for him.
Soon it was Big Sister Aditu's turn in Mikau's care. As soon as he had finish feeding, she grab him and had him belly up on his back. She rub his soft tummy around with her finger, careful to not poke him with her sharp claw. The baby flutter his pectoral fins at her as she help move his digestion, catching glimpses of the Mark of Nayru. Aware of their bloodline, she was constantly reminded that this little Zora may be a future protector and hope, so the Sylovaakiens can't take any chances of losing him. Its hard to believe he, of all Zoras, was chosen to be a high ranking protector of the oceans, especially when the world is at a state of peace. But Nayru always has a trick up her sleeve, and Aditu had faith she'll help him pull through if he was needed.
'And be a great Sea Deity,' she thought to herself.
After few moments of rubbing, she pulled her hand away. Mikau yawned and snug into a little ball, fitting comfortably in her palm. Closing his beady eyes, he resume his current slumber from before, only this time with a full stomach. Aditu felt her heart swell at the cute sight. She sat next to the chair where her brother was, leaning her head on his side as the siblings and baby Zora share this moment of peace with the little Sea Deity.
The baby Zoran Hero had been carefully monitor by Zoran doctors and mages days later. He barely remain awake as his mind came and went, sometimes sleeping away the usual nocturnal night. The Zoras had to poke him awake each time he must feed, and had to sometimes place the food in his mouth and help him chew. They often examine his heart rate, scale color, eyes, mouth and nose for any sign of poison leakage from an infection. With a high death rate of Zora hatchings inheriting contaminated poison genes from their parents' overexposure of it during the war, the Zoras of Syloaanika are prepare to face the worse.
Mikau's household had been relatively quiet the pass couple of weeks, the lighting dimer then usual even during their waking hours. Ruuna, Nicoda and the others spent every moment they could with the Zora runt, sitting silently on their family rocking chair as the parents made eye contact with their son. He only stared back, whimpering sadly as he tremble in his mother's arms. Ruuna shushed him with a stroke of her finger, rocking the chair back and forth slowly as to not scare him. Holding him closer to her heart, Ruuna sang to him a song about their breed, the Sylovaakien Zoras, to give him the strength and courage to pull through.
His siblings share similar moments with him. They quietly sing and hum for the tiny Zora in their care, pressing noses with him, blowing soft bubbles and tickling his tummy. Mikau grew close to them, and they bonded with him. He felt safe at the sight of them, and he can feel the warm glow of the Zora's Sapphire on his fins, feeling a sudden presence he couldn't see. It was strange, but for some unknown reason this presence made him feel more safe and relax, melting into his relatives' embrace.
Meanwhile Lulu had heard of the Sylovaakien's plight and had taken pity on them, especially for Mikau. She had halt her band's current concert to travel to the deep, mountainous region of the Sylovaakien people, arriving at their residence about a week later. The family were at first slightly hostile, flailing their great fins at the sight of an intruder, which didn't surprise her as this is the norm for territorial breeds. They relax as soon as they realize it was her, and allow her access to their little relative. As soon as she saw him, sneezing and wheezing, she took action.
Lulu stay in a spear room as she help the Sylovaakiens care for Mikau. She too took a moment of her time to sit in the rocking chair and simply bond with him, but will also feed him, clean him and sing to him every time. Mikau remain timid of her at first, but as soon as she began to sing, he instantly felt at peace. Something about her singing had really gotten to the little Zora, and he'll sleep to her beautiful voice every night. For every time Lulu sang, Mikau close his eyes and will purr quietly, snuggling closer to her embrace. They weren't even the same breed and yet she treated him like one of her own.
Slowly, steadily, Mikau began to gain some strength. He'd try to follow the older Zoras on certain occasions, but he'll soon grow tire and sink to the bottom, clicking to address the others of his needs. Still, it was a promising start. He tried again, wiggling his little tail as he propel himself to catch up with his family, all the while his Sapphires glowing more and more. Each night he swam, and each night he remain swimming for longer periods of time before giving in. Soon he was swimming side by side with one of his cousins, Haru, whose had been visiting. He slept less often on his second week of life, instead watching from his cozy moss blanket as Zora will expect him for unhealthy signs of illness. Now he spends part of his time awake, though he's still very weak, the Zoras are all relieve to see that Mikau is behaving more and more like a regular Tadpole, even if it were slow. But Sylovaakiens are patient creatures, and the family knew that with co-operation and love is key to his recovery.
Everyone are managing to help the tiny Zora and interact with him.
By his third week, the pup began to explores his world, nudging and poking with his nose curiously before taking a tiny nibble in hopes of better understanding his domain. The place is GIANT! The home gave off its own natural glow of soft purple. It was so big, decorated in colorful walls and flooring with swirling patterns and some of the finest expensive furniture. Moss were use as cushions and blankets for beds. All over the large residence, diamonds and other jewelry litter the mansion in neat pile stack in random places. Some were use to decorate the many pillars, portraits, furniture, and even engraved or hanged from the ceiling where they sway in the ocean currents. Large fancy shaped openings were neatly carved in the ceilings and walls throughout his home in place of doorways, having the Zoras come and go as they please.
Many coral grew naturally up against the walls and dangling sea plants on the openings, serving as an excellent playground for a youngster such as him. Various fishes swam in and out of the mansion, and he watch as two of his brothers Aleer and Shoal, simply clamp their jaws shut whenever the animals are within range of the seashell couch they had lazily been laying on. The fishy actually look like him, and they were eating them! Why? Would they eat him too? Scared, Mikau had swam away to another decorated room.
And he explored. He became familiar with the world around him and establish his turf. He ruined the sea flowers by pulling them roughly, knock over glass Zora figures and seashell plates, and rolled in the sand from turned over coral pots. What a mess he made! And when his Mommy and Daddy-Zora swam into the dining room in search of him, they found him fast asleep in a teacup imported from Clock Town, curl into a snug little ball and squeaking quietly in his blissful sleep. Ruuna and Nicoda couldn't help but smile lovingly at the adorable display before them, despite the mess he made. What can they say? He was only a tadpole who just wanted to explore his new world. Its only natural in a baby Zora to make crazy messes.
Ruuna pick up the teacup by its handle and peer inside with her partner. Mikau snore soundly from his cozy "nest." She could never be upset with such innocence, even if he did smash some of their antique plates and prized glass figure collection. That didn't matter right now. She could always purchase more in the supermarket in the spring, when the Carnival of Time was celebrated globally. She softly tickle his squishy head with a finger, watching him stir a little in his sleep before unconsciously nibbling on his tail. The proud mother lean against her equally proud mate as he too reach in to pet him.
But all is not well.
Nicoda hadn't had luck with his own child however. The minute the little one was pass over to his father, the hatchling started to panic. He'll squeal in complete terror, squirming frantically to try and get away. Nicoda had try multiple times to coax him to remain relax, but the baby isn't having none of it. Every time the Zora have a hold on the runt, Mikau will somehow wiggle free and race right back to his mother, crying on her chest or shoulder. He tried approaching him carefully, whistling softly to the paranoid pup to present himself as nonthreatening, but the whimpering runt will curl into a tight ball with his eyes shut.
Ruuna, Lulu and the others' moment of celebration was cut short by the baby's obscure behavior towards his father. This deeply hurt Nicoda to see his own son terrified of him. He dreaded to imagine the little tyke growing up absolutely scared of his own father, willing himself to take action. During these times, Nicoda had skip out of work, having his brother and niece take over in city guardianship. He will sit himself in an enclosed room full of coral and hiding places where Ruuna will meet him with the pup. Placing him with Nicoda, she had left them alone, just as her Mate had advice. Ruuna and her partner can only hope this would work for Mikau's sake.
Mikau fearfully stray away from the older male darting from place to place. However, once he realize he had nowhere to go, tear bubbles bloom from his sapphire orbs. His body shook, whimpers were made audible, and the tiny form sank to the ground curled in a weeping mess.
Nicoda wanted to bolt to the door to shout for Ruuna, telling her to reclaim their Tadpole, but he didn't. He remain calm and gave him space. Eventually he begun approaching ever so slowly...calling to him by name as he slowly, carefully, reach his hand under the child for him to sniff. He only lay his hand in front of the other, no longer advancing. The pup was still crying, but stop briefly to take a whiff of the adult's hand. His posture relax for only a fraction of a moment, the tiny runt sniffing more and more of Nicoda's hand. Only when he glance up to his father's face did it break the spell, finding himself again rushing in fear. Hope had swelled in Nicoda even when Mikau swam away to another corner. The baby actually stopped to investigate him, which is a good start. He soon summon Ruuna a while later, not willing to stress out the tiny creature.
Many snowy nights passed by steadily. Nicoda had sat in the same room night after night with the frighten Tadpole, avoiding eye contact in the first few hours as he talk toward the shivering baby. He'll scoot a little closer over time, still not looking at the Sea Deity pup directly yet. Eventually, Nicoda will be right next the Zora tadpole, who'd stare up at him with sorrowful eyes. Never glancing at him, Nicoda gently stroke the baby, only for him to break away from him. Trying again, Nicoda let his hand lay motionless on the shiny floor, pretending to be totally focus on something else. He'll remain like this for an hour, giving Mikau time to adjust. The little wonder that is the Sea Deity gather all of his young courage and approach the giant, bit by itty bit.
Nicoda felt the tiny thing poke his palm, inspecting it with his cute, short muzzle. He continue to "ignore" him as the young one grew bolder. Ten minutes pass, then fifteen, then twenty, before the baby Zora unexpectedly used his hand as a nest, snuffling in to make himself comfortable. He wore a peaceful expression on his tiny snowy face, eyes curious and tongue out for licking, though he didn't quit do this. Nicoda felt his heart swelled in feeling the tadpole's soft tummy and cute tongue press in between his fingers. He finally look down at him with a fatherly smile, using his thumb to stroke his little Sea Deity. However, Mikau eventually fled in sudden terror at his face, but instead of hiding, he simply swam out of his hand a swam a little way away from him, eyeing him with those beady eyes of his. Sighing, Nicoda resume to stare in the opposite direction, muttering words of comfort to his son. The Tadpole slowly slink forward, then back away, then swam a bit closer. And closer, and closer...
The night drag on, the feeble runt soon fast asleep on the smooth floor...
Eyes open. Mikau no longer slept on the swirling patterned floor, but instead rest on his back in his father's arms. The adult Zora smile at him, stroking his cheek and poking the nose. This person is being just like his mother. He was comforting him, hugging close and rubbing their cheeks together. For the first time, Mikau began to feel secure with Nicoda. He understood the other is nothing like that scary being with the dangerous eyes. No...this one is like his mommy, kind, gentle and safe to be around with. The little tadpole flap his fins at the larger Zora, reaching for him, begging for him. The pup even started licking and nibbling his father's fingers whenever they came within range, gaining more and more trust as the interaction continue on.
Nicoda began bonding with Mikau. After all that he's been through, he started to face his fears and maybe even forget about his rotten grandfather-Suddenly scared squeaks emitted from the tadpole runt. Nicoda shook his head and look at little Mikau, blue eyes releasing bubbles of fear as he shook violently. He was wide eyed with fright at his father's face, but miraculously never fled. Instead he remain in his arms crying and reaching for him in the most pitiful manner he'd seen. As the tear bubbles pop upon contact to his face, Nicoda try to hush the little Sea Deity as he kept himself from growing into a panic. Is there something wrong with Mikau? He look around rapidly to try and find sometime fast, until he fell upon his reflection on a nearby mirror. The world around him shattered and faded into a black void, the cries of his pup muffled as Nicoda stare at himself. He watch in realization, staring into his eyes. He understood now.
His red eye...
That cursed, bloody eye...
Nicoda felt his heart pound against his powerful chest, threatening to hammer its way out of his body as his fought the trembles in his very being. He should've known. Disturbing thoughts began to seep their way to his conscience unwillingly, each revolving around the tiny creature weeping helplessly in his arms. The voices he once heard in his days of warfare taunted him once more in his mind...trying to get him to snap, to turn on the little Zora while he still can. Eyes twitched, lips struggling to keep his teeth from exposing, body shook uneasily.
Suddenly he snapped out of his trance, shaking his head violently. He mentally growl at his blood red eye as he brought the baby Zora to his shoulder to comfort him. He now realize why the pup had been so scared of him. That disgusting curse eye had prevented the tiny runt from trusting his father...
It only reminded the pup of his cursed grandfather under the same spell.
Disgrace by his appearance, Nicoda push himself off the floor and casually swam out, cradling the more or less calmer Sea Deity. Opening the door with a free hand, the Alpha male was greeted by Ruuna, who had been standing guard the entire night by the doorframe. She is incredibly patience, sometimes staying in an area for days at a time if it came to it. Its one of the many things Nicoda admire about her.
She didn't waste any time in nuzzling her lover's cheek affectingly, purring lovingly and nibbling his floppy ear fins which she love so much. Her pup squiggle his itty bitty fins at her, hoping for affection. Thus he was rewarded with kisses and nuzzles from his Mommy-Zora, resulting in him forgetting about the evil eye his father wore. Feeling better, he squeak and licked her whitish cheek in return.
Nicoda, however, was not in for some family cuddles. He soon present Ruuna with the squeaking tadpole, who she took in her arms. She watch his expression carefully, realizing something is amiss.
"Ruuna," Nicoda spoke with a hint of command. "Watch over the pack for the meantime. I have something to take care of..."
"What do you mean 'something to take care of?'" his mate reply warily. Already Ruuna seemed confuse, suspicious, and worry in a span of a split second, hugging the tiny baby protectively. Nicoda understood where she was coming from, but he can't let his beloved sweetheart hold him back from what he was about to do. Already he felt guilty for hiding their son's destiny from her and the rest of his family, he didn't want to have to lie to hear again. He felt his child depended on this, though and was share that Ruuna would understand when he returns.
"Don't worry about it. Just stay here with Mikau and the others and keep him safe."
"Nic-"
"I'll return, love. I promise. But please stay here. Right now our son needs you."
Silence fill the hall. Ruuna felt uneasy at Nicoda's words. The male Zora knew he was rash and unpredictable at times, which often ended with his life in grave danger more then he can count. And for that, Ruuna had become suspicious and annoyed overtime. Despite this foolish behavior, Nicoda had done these for a good cause which always benefited the Zoran race. He knew what he was doing, and always have tricks up his fins to get out of the most deadly of situations.
But once he promise something, it'll be he's number one priority to keep that promise.
"Alright. Just be back as soon as you can," Ruuna reply, moving in to lean by his side.
Nicoda stroke her back and tickle Pip's belly before turning away from them, the light of the city bouncing off his shiny skin to create shimmering colors. "I will." Without another word, the leader of the Sylovaakiens bolted through the open window and disappear into the night, clusters of bubbles left in his wake.
Hell's Trench, 5:55 am.
The night crawl away steadily and swiftly like a Sheikah stalking in the shadows. Few plants sway and twist in the currents, glitters of snow wishfully dancing in the water. The Moon belonging to the Zora's Goddess slowly gave way to her Sister's Sun, dawn already making itself known as the light of day shatter the horizon and the sea became clearer. The purple hue of the night evaporated and dusky green slowly took over. The underwater terrain here was barren of life, dropping straight down to a black abyss. Not a single soul in sight.
Nicoda swam into the territory quietly, scanning the terrain for any suspicious characters that may lurk in these waters. Right now, no one seem to be here. Good. It is exactly what he wanted.
Nicoda came to a abrupt halt at the edge of a steep drop-off, just in time to see the blackness below glowed into a horrid bloody red, currents leading to its depths without end. Hot bubbles gurgle from its Hellish depths. Across the cliff side were another seascape of rocky canyons. This is Hell's Trench, an infamous undersea canyon said to bring death and chaos to passing ships or ocean dwellers. It is rumor by Zoras throughout Termina's history that the trench is gateway to Hell and all evil are spawn from it. Zoran Heroes, especially Sea Deities, had use this flaming crack in the earth to trap and imprison the most vile beings and warlords to ever swim Termina's beautiful waters. The Sylovakiens and their great white cousins, the moody Koreoip Zoras who are unaware of the former's existence, had taken extra care in safe guarding it to ensure no soul would misuse it and unleash unspeakable evil.
No-one else is around though, most likely tending to their young. It makes sense as its the pupping season after all. Nicoda, satisfied by this, gave a deep breathe before suddenly sharpening his fins. His head flooded with demonic voices coming in all at once, making the Zora shake violently and holding his head. They were becoming angry, taunting him, trying to control him, and making his other eye bleed in red.
The Zora snarled dangerously, fangs and claws enlarging while scales and fins darken in color. Nicoda angle his fin-blade at the left side of his face, eyes narrowing at the angry voices as the sharp tip of the sword gleam from what's left of the moon's light.
Without hesitating, Nicoda thrust his blade, stabbing his cursed red eye with all his might. Everything stop. The voice screamed wildly as negative energy race out of his bleeding socket and disappear into the hellish depths below. It took an extreme amount of will power for Nicoda to hold back a agonizing scream as he sank to his knees...
The waters around the city remain calm and silent, only the sound of bubbles being heard from his tank. The rays of Din's Sun bathe the ocean world in gold, with some of her light leaking their way into his home and right on the little Zora. Mikau poked his tiny white face from the teacup he grow accustom sleeping in, clicking curiously as he swam around his enclosure at a steady pace. Now more or less strong enough to swim without help, at least in short burst, Mikau had been given new friends to socialize and play with. There are currently four other Tadpoles sharing his tank today, sleeping peacefully in company. Two the little ones are his Big Brother Neoa's kids, white with black arrow birthmarks like him. The other two were new faces belonging to their neighbors. Mikau poke at them, trying to wake the sleepy-heads up. One Tadpole was light green with small, jagged pectoral fins and black arrows. The other pup is creamy white in color, orange tinted muzzle, amber fins and the typical black arrow head. Both of the Zoras are little girls, but they and the other Tadpoles almost dwarf Mikau, because while still tiny themselves, barely fitting in the palm of a human hand, the runt in question is only half their size.
Mikau nudge and lick the other pups, trying to encourage them to play. He like them, and they liked him the moment they first met hours ago, trying to persuade him to join there newly establish pack. Now Mikau is reversing the rolls, asking for some fun time with his new friends. Though it doesn't seem they are up for some games at all which made Mikau miss his Mommy-Zora already. At least she and his siblings would give him tickles...
"Meep..."
He yawn and nearly drifted to sleep when he spy a small pair of red hoops swaying in the water of his nursery tank, the colors very appealing to him. His tail wiggle hard to build up speed as he dart through the rings playfully, but his energy has yet to reach full potential. Sinking to the bottom and spying something shiny, Mikau picked up a small stone in his mouth and made an attempt in dropping it on a clam, but instead collided with some hollow crystal seashells which made a sweet musical melody. He stop and stare, trying to comprehend what just occurred, but liking what he heard. He picked up the pebble and drop it on the shells again, the nice tone echoing soothingly around his aquarium.
"Meep!" Mikau chirped happily, his normal Tadpole energy finally beginning to shine. The sound reminds him of Miss Lulu-Zora and her voice. Very pretty, he must hear more!
"Meep?" squeak one of the Tadpoles, shaking herself awake. Mikau turn to her gleefully, fluttering his pectoral fins in excitement as he grab hold of the pebble and release it yet again on the shells, ringing their music for all to hear. The other Tadpoles, now awake and listening, wag their tails happily and study the tinier Zora's action. He drop stone after stone to create the lovely sound, each more graceful then the last. It look like he is trying to preform. Like a concert almost.
The other pups snuffle at the sand to search for the nearest pebbles they could find, grabbing them eagerly and dropping them on random ornaments, copying the other. Each crash made a different sound, some heretic while other were rather nice, but none match the tone of sweet harmony that little Mikau had created. They tried again, meeting with the same nice/cringewrothy results. Confuse and disappointed, the baby Zoras soon grab their tools and swam over to Mikau, dropping their stash onto his pile. Within moments, a chorus of sweet ringing emitted from the sea shells, brushing their inner ears in their song. All the Tadpole squeaked happily, catching their respected stones in their mouths and learning to take turns from each other. Such fun! Very pretty!
Suddenly, a shrill scream from outside reverberated across the neighborhood, amplified by the water. The Tadpoles in their spot, eyes widening and gills puffing instinctively. Then they scatter, squealing for help and racing around the tank. Fear rose from within the pups as they desperately made a mad dash to hide behind sponge, borrow under the sands, and curl up within coral branches. Mikau headed for his little sleeping spot in the coral cover rock, crying frantically for Mommy-Zora, Big Sister/Brother Zoras, Lulu-Zora, even Daddy-Zora to come save them from the scary sound! Unfortunately, in the young Zora's panic, the tiny markings of the Zora's Sapphire illuminated and glowed in his eyes, causing the little one to dart in every which way in desperation and ultimately bumping his forehead on the glass of his tank.
"Meep..!" Down he sank, puffing up sand and debry as his tiny round body hit the sandy floor. Too scared to move, Mikau lay there, weeping in pain and fear of the scary scream, eyes tightly close. The other Tadpoles remain trembling, crying themselves even, as they await for what is in store for them.
Sylovaakien Zoras suddenly swam into view, passing the tank without giving it a second thought. They spun over to another Zora entering the domain, squeaking and clicking frightfully. The commotion reach the young Sea Deity's ears, forcing him to open his beady blue eyes to view the situation. Upon closer inspection, Mikau quickly realize it was the Zora with the scary eye. He tremble at the faith memory of the evil thing, but the sight of him entering the home the way he did made him stop otherwise.
His father returning from who knows where, Mikau notice with some fright of the missing red eye. He came stumbling in, looking dazed and barely swimming in a straight line as he cover his open socket. Unable to remain afloat, Nicoda had to lean on to the wall for support. Blood spurred from the gory wound at an alarming rate, turning into an ugly brown color as it mixes with the salt water before dissolving completely. Immediately the whole family were rushing to his aid, helping the disoriented Zora to lie on the couch. Lulu had timidly approach the larger Zoras, eyes scared and glancing back and froth between them and the tank Mikau and his friends reside in.
"Ruuna, what should I do?" the diva squeak in fright.
Ruuna look down at the smaller female, her stance taking up a commanding position and her normally gentle voice firm and to the point. "I want you to alert the Medical Mages of the situation immediately."
The Malletila Zora nodded hurriedly and bolted off to another corridor of the house. Ruuna then turn to her teenage daughter Aditu, who had no clue on how to help her father and as a result is on the verge of a panic attack. She was swimming around the scene in circles, her eyes looking wild.
"Aditu, take the baby Zoras to another room so they wouldn't become frighten. We can't have them witnessing scenes that will scare them, especially your brother. Stay there to comfort and play them so they'll erase the display from their minds."
Snapping out of her thoughts, Aditu shook her head and reply back. "Oh, ok mom. I'll get right to it!" The female Zora darted over where the tank is and open the hatch. Swimming inside, she began assembling the Tadpoles one by one until she notice her tiny brother laying on the sand with a bruise on his head.
"!BABY BROTHER! Are you okay? Here, let me make that boo boo go away," Aditu scoop Mikau in her hand and gave him a little kiss to his forehead. Mikau seems to feel better as he now try to reach for her with his tiny fins, just as he did with his Mommy-Zora. Soon, all the little Zoras were escorted out of the tank and encourage to follow their older leader. Mikau lag behind, though he turn to catch sight of Daddy-Zora. He looked pained and ready to pass out. Not good.
His mother remain by Nicoda's side at all time, barking orders to her comrades for the necessary equipment for their devoted father until the Medics finally arrived. They got to work right away, the other Zoras giving them room to preform the healing spells while Mikau briefly heard his Mommy-Zora muttering something about stupid stunts and missing eye. His young mind was unable to comprehend why his Daddy-Zora is the way he is, but something in the little Zora prompt him to swim over to him. The scary eye isn't there anymore, and Mikau darted forward, his timid squeaking becoming more bolder as he swam. But three strangers hid his Daddy-Zora from view...What are they doing to him?
Mikau continue swimming, attempting to see where Daddy-Zora could be. However he was snatch up by Big-Sister Aditu and taken to another room. With a squeal of complain, Mikau peer from her shoulder as the Zoras disappear behind the wall of the next room. His older sibling place him with the other Tadpoles, who all shuffle over to be with him. Mikau whimper. He felt sorrow for his Daddy-Zora and couldn't understand why. His scary eye is gone, but his father is sad. Mikau found it hard to be happy, even with his little Tadpole friends and Big-Sister Aditu by his side. The older Zora sense her brother's distress and collected him in a gentle hug.
"Poor thing...You're worry for our Daddy are you?" she spoken softly. "Its ok Mikau. Daddy will be fine, you'll see. He'll be up and swimming in no time."
The other Tadpoles, sensing their comrade's sorrowful mood, all joined in to silently reassure their friend. Mikau found himself feeling much better with all the nice gestures and kindness he's receiving. He merely snuggle closer to Aditu and close his eyes.
Soon Nicoda enter the room with Ruuna and their other kin passing by to greet the little ones. Ruuna remain by her mate's side in case he needed support. His wound had been healed, all that's left of it is an ugly red scar running down from the top of his socket to the base of his jaw. Nicoda could now swim correctly, though admittingly is still sluggish from the blood loss. Lulu is currently escorting the Sylovaakien Mages out the door, giving her thanks before turning and entering the same room.
Mikau open his eyes and try to turn his head around from his sister's embrace. He stare at his Daddy-Zora, little face entirely focus on the other's. A small "Meep" quietly slip pass his tiny mouth, his fins fluttering somewhat. His Daddy-Zora is ok. All of his previous sadness were forgotten, though a wave of shyness wash over him, the memory of the wicked red eye still fresh in his mind. Mikau remain unsure on weather he should approach or remain where he was, but slowly he felt the strong urge of greeting his father overcome him. His Sapphire symbols glowed softly, and he found his confidence growing. The eye isn't there anymore. There's no longer any more reason to fear his own parent.
He felt safe now.
Mikau wiggle his way out of Aditu's grasp and swam away, heading straight for his parents. Aditu stare at her arms where Mikau was just at seconds ago. The other Zoras pause in their track and watch the baby Zora approach them. Ruuna cooed and held a hand out for him.
"Hello Mikau. Come here sweetheart."
Mikau sniff at her offered hand, but didn't sat on it like he normally would. Instead he turn his attention away and stare at his father. Nicoda was little surprise by this, as he had come to expect his son to go for his mother, possibly favoring her more. However, Mikau swam over to him, little tail beating fast until his stop in front of his face. They stare back into each other, one unsure while the other remain curious. Nicoda decided now be a perfect time to speak.
"Hello there," he smile tiredly as he reach out with a hand. Mikau seem to be taken aback by his action but instead of swimming off he sniff at his fingers and palm briefly. Feeling a little more confident, Nicoda move gently to cup the tiny Zora in hand, but Mikau had other ideas. Instead, the baby Zora swam to his face, tilting slightly as he watch the larger Zora, then wag his tail. He swam up, no one sure what he was up to. To everyone's surprise, Mikau swam to the top of his head and settle himself snugly on Nicoda's colorful crown. He position himself to get more comfortable, his fins fluttering happily as he peered from his unlikely perch.
The Zoras watch in surprise and amazement by the display. By some miracle, Mikau had shown to trust Nicoda to the point he'll hitch a ride from him.
"That's so cute!" Aditu squeal delightfully. The rest of the Tadpoles send happy whistles, as if agreeing with her.
"Indeed" Lulu chime as she poke the runt with a finger. "You're so sweet. He really seem to like you now Nicoda."
Nicoda seem surprise by his son's strange action, but upon feeling him shuffle and cuddling his head, the surprise look melted into a fatherly smile. The pain of losing his eye wash away, forgotten as the baby made himself cozy on his unlikely spot. Carefully, he reach up and stroke Mikau with a finger, and the little Zora responded by trying to lick it. It had worked. By eliminating his cursed eye, he had gain the trust of his boy.
His efforts had been wroth it after all.
Ruuna place a hand on his broad shoulder, having him look into her eyes. A soft smile was shone on her face, her nose rubbing against his own as she let out a sigh. "You know, I was about to skin you for preforming another one of your stupid stunts and having me worry. But seeing as Mikau has grown fond of you, I'll let it pass..." The glint in her eye never left as she nudge her pup, who squeaked happily at her, but still remain on his father.
Nicoda shudder at the sensation of their noses touching. He form a tired smile at her, his son Aleer helping him sit on a coach with the child still on his head. Everyone got to work in Nicoda's injury, holding him in position as Ruuna barked her orders. Shoal cupped his baby brother in his hands and took him with the other Tadpoles. The Alpha Male felt pride swelling in him for his son, and unbeknownst to him, tears of joy threaten to push their way through. Though never one to get emotional, especially with such a important task of protecting and leading the Zoran Heroes, Nicoda will sometimes exceptions with his children. Picking up his son, he press him close to his strong chest, the whole family watching with smiles.
Mikau gratefully nibble his father's nose, just as he did with his mother back at the temple. His parent purred and blew bubbles at him, which he popped with his waving fins. For the first time in his life, Mikau finally accepted the leader of their pack as his father, not a threat to be avoided. He had brought the whole family together in his acceptance and felt a strong bond growing within him. Daddy-Zora is his family too. And nothing will ever come in between them again.
Months had come and went. It all blurred together in a long fuzzy memory for the Sylovaakien Zoras. Nicoda had temporarily step down from his guardian duty to continue working with his son Mikau. The two Zoras, one a warrior and leader and the other a Sea Deity with great potential, grew closer and closer each passing day. Over time Mikau had develop a strong powerful bond equal to his mother, siblings and even Lulu-Zora. He'll sleep on his father's hand, tug at his head fin playfully, follow him around, and of coarse hitch a ride on his head. All throughout the winter.
Mikau began to notice the world around him is changing. The golden snow began to vaporize rapidly, revealing colorful sea plants and hidden reefs. Sponges grew and dotted the many coral gardens and forests in great numbers. As the waters grew warmer strange animals he never witness before flock the seas in the hundreds as they migrate from Nayru-knows-where. The purple hue of the ocean night also change; it had become a lighter shade of the mysterious color, thus slightly more visibility during the night. An array of celestial stardust pour into the oceans from the heavens glistening peaceful in place of snow. It was like star gazing under the sea.
Lulu had also begun acting strange in the last few days. I all started in the month of February. She swam in circles for minutes at a time. Her belly had gone plump in over three months and seem ready to burst. She would give out strange Zoran calls to no one in particular. Lulu hasn't even sung any of her songs to him, something which he had grown quite accustom to and dearly enjoyed. The household was always filled with her pretty songs he grew to love. And when Mikau set out one day to seek Lulu-Zora, she was gone. Mikau didn't understand. What is this new world? Where is the cold yellow stuff going? And what did it do to Miss Lulu-Zora?
"Spring is coming," he heard his father say one day. Mikau turn around in confusion and swam over to his Daddy-Zora whom lay on his bed with the sleeping Ruuna. The baby Zora sank to rest on his muscular chest as sparkling eyes stare curiously at his parent for answers. A small "Meep?" emitted from his mouth, prompting his father to continue. "Spring is very wonderful, Mikau. There's nothing to be afraid of. You'll see the world in a whole new light and be able to play outside. If you're lucky, you might even make new friends."
He didn't what he meant, but at the sound of "friends" and the way he said it made his eyes sparkle. This spring sounds nice. Now his Daddy-Zora had him eager to see this so called spring, now looking forward to it.
April had rolled in from the horizon, and thus spring had come at last! It was just around sunset. The normally blue waters now bathe the ocean realm in gold as Din's Sun sink beyond the horizon. The world had been fully transformed from golden swirls of winter's dust to vibrant arrays of rich colors. Mikau was carry in to a glade by his mother and set to view his surroundings. His eyes grew wide. Mikau explore the newly expose world in awe, poking and nipping at anything he comes in contact with. Star dust from the heavens floated everywhere in the water, fishes flock his vision, and coral tower in mighty forest while anemone and multicolored sea grass sway in the currents.
Mikau found a small shell which had gotten him excited. He picked it up and hurry over to his parents. His pectoral fins flap about in happiness, dropping the shell on the rocky reef. It bounce and roll off the limestone and into the sand. Mikau stare in confusion and pick it up to again. Ruuna and Nicoda watch their son try again and again to make the stones produce music with little success. All that came when hollow sounds muffle by the water.
"Are you trying to make pretty music Mikau?" Ruuna purred as her Tadpole continue failing at his task. Mikau release a sad squeak, discourage by the lack of the soothing ringing, until a stem of grape-like sea berries catch his eye. The parents watch as he flutter up to the fruit and inspect it. He poked it first, instinctively closing his eyes while doing so, then bit it with tiny fully develop canines. Creamy juice pour into his mouth releasing a rich sensation of flavors, and Mikau squeal delightfully at the taste of the new treat. The adult Zoras chuckle at their child's display.
Upon gobbling up the berries like a miniature shark, Mikau darted off, skimming and rolling in the sand playfully, swimming back and froth to his parents and dashing through various obstetrical in the environment. He then turn to chase after a flashlight fish he spotted to play with, who are clearly not to keen on the idea of a baby Zora nipping at her tail. They dash in between coral branches, dodge some sponges, disappear in caves and crevices and zip by many occupied cleaning stations. Such fun!
Mikau whistle happily to himself when he heard another Zora reply. He stop, listening to the sound as it emitted from the east of his position. It sounded young, young enough to be another Tadpole. Wagging his tail, Mikau headed to the direction of the sound. He snuffle the sea floor every now and then to scavenge for stones, clouds of sand puffing up around him. The sand block his view, and he couldn't see where he was going. Amiss his temporary blindness, Mikau bump into another Zora Tadpole. He let out a surprise squeak, and both of them tumble and roll on the dancing sea grass.
Wiggling about, Mikau and the unknown Tadpole landed in a heap in the grass and now try to separate through tangle tails. When they finally broke free, the Tadpoles swam a ways away from each other, hiding behind bushy corals as they spy on the other. Neither move. They remain staring at each other until they finally decide to investigate from their hiding place. Mikau swam closer to the other, and upon closer inspection he noted how strange he is from other Tadpoles.
He had no arrow marking on his head, instead it remain blank. His head instead sported two short fins hanging just behind his emerald green eyes. His scales were greenish-white in color, and his pectoral fins bare no spike like his does. Except for his head fins, the rest of his fins resemble that of a fish he once saw...
"Trevalley." his father once when he and Mikau sat on the reefs to sight see the local wildlife. Or in Nicoda's case, dinner. "They are trevallies. Do not approach them Mikau. They're mean to Zoras."
"Meep!" with his squawk of fright, Mikau back away from the Trevally/Zora thing, bumping and flailing against the rocks jutting out of the seafloor. The little Zora roll off of the spongy rocks and onto the waving sea grass, staring as the other little Zora watch him with interest. He swam closer to the Sylovaakien Zora, eyes sparkling with excitement.
"Doo!" he suddenly squeaked, tail wagging in happiness.
Mikau grew confuse at what was just said. What does it mean? "Doo?"
"Doo!" The green eyed Tadpole nudge Mikau eagerly, signalling that he wants to play with him. He whistle and tug on the runt's fins in hopes of getting a positive response before squawking his favorite word again. "Doo!"
"Doo!" Now Mikau was started understand he meant no harm. He wants to play with him! Such joy ran through his tiny being and the Zora poke at the other in greeting. "Doo! Doo!"
In his excitement, Mikau picked up a stray stone and poke the other Zora with it. He squeak in confusion, tilting head as the Zoran Hero tadpole Wiggle away with it. Gaining the impression of chase, the baby Trejax hurry over, nipping the other's tail. Mikau flinch in surprise, but quickly forgotten about this when he found what he was looking for; the crystal seashells. He drop the stone and watch as it produce its lovely music upon contact. The young Trejax watch in amazement, intrigued by the wonderful sound. Mikau pick up the stone and again nudge him with it. The little Tadpole seem to understand and grab the pebble in his mouth. He dropped it on the shells, and grew delighted to hear more of its song. Mikau pick another stone and tap the shells while the Trejax drop his stone. They created a little session with each other, and the boys were growing more excited as they continue to work together with their pretty sound. Such fun they're having!
"Doo!"
"Meep!"
"Mikau," call the voice of his mother. Mikau stop what he was doing and flutter his pectoral fins happily at the sound of her voice. The tiny Zoralings heard the rushing sounds of bubbles and the sound of corals bending. Out of the shrubby coral brush came the two Sylovaakien Zoras in search of their Tadpole. They purred happily upon seeing him, and Mikau shook his tail side to side as he hurry over to his parents.
Ruuna and Nicoda embrace their son, tickling his tummy and blowing bubbles at him. They took notice of the little Zora Tadpole hovering above the sea grass and their tails flag skywards in alarm.
"A baby Trejax? In Sylovaakien territory?" Ruuna spoke with concern evident in her voice. The idea of a Trajax, let alone a young one, in such deep waters exclusive to certain breeds of Zoras is unusual and worrisome. Sea life down here can be extremely hostile to anyone not familiar to it and more then willing to eat a lone Zora Tadpole.
Nicoda swam over to examine the baby for any sign of injuries. Thankfully, the little visitor is in perfect condition and even swam up to poke his nose. The Bull Zora smile rub his nose against the other's muzzle, who squealed gleefully and pulled at Nicoda's floppy ear-fins. "Don't worry Ru. He's okay and safe now that we're here." He turn around and gave Mikau a good petting on his snout, earning some curious nibbles to his fingers. "Good job Mikau. Its your first little rescue! It was a blessing that he found this tiny fella when he did."
Ruuna felt Mikau breaking away from her and swimming over to be with his newly establish friend. The adult Zoran Heroes decided to wait for a few moments to see if the child's parents would come back. Its possible they've might of left him hidden here to chase off threats. They whistle and chase each other for a bit, snapping at each others tail in mock dominance. She floated over to the two boys, nudging them with her nose to her chest. The little Zoras scuffle into position next to her and Ruuna lay down with them now curl against her cheek. She close her eyes and vibrated in her comfort, assuring both Tadpoles they are safe. The Trajax Tadpole cuddle close to her and her child as if she were his mother and Mikau were his brother. She had to wonder where the boy's parents are at? Surely they wouldn't leave their defenseless Tadpole all alone in the wild, untamed ocean..
Nicoda close in on the group to join his Mate when a loud scream suddenly pierce the waters like a thousand spears, scattering hundreds of various fishes in all direction. The spooked animals swam blindly in their panic, obscuring both Nicoda and Ruuna's vision as they try desperately to locate to interloper. Nicoda was struck back by some sort of dart-like object and send crashing roughly to the ground, coughing sand and blood as agony grip at his ribcage. Ruuna was brutally rammed in the skull by another of the same creature, stars exploding chaotically in her dazed vision as her body collided against the rock. The Tadpoles, especially Mikau, cry frantically for the stunned Zoran Heroes, unable to comprehend what is happening in their moment of panic.
The fish had soon fled the area, revealing the Sylovaakien's offenders. The adults, shaking the daze and pain away for the moment, stared back in bewilderment as two very agitated Labrynnian Trejax Zoras stood before them. One was a muscular male with aqua color scales, long head fins (typical for their breed) sap green eyes and a nasty scar on his chest. The other was a sleeker female with green-white scales, dark green eyes, and only one head fin covering half her right eye. They tower over the tiny Zora shaking fearfully at their feet, eyes piercing daggers at the two adult Shark Zoras and their canines bared. Nicoda realize they are the same Zoras swimming by the Great Bay Temple months earlier.
Infuriated by the sudden assault, the Sylovaakien Zoras stared momentarily at the Jack base Zoras. Then they spat and growled threateningly, their now unsheathe fin blades rattling dangerously. They flash their patterns in warning flashes, circling the smaller Trejaxes in a threatening, shark-like manner. Although not interested in harming the Trejaxes, the Zoran Heroes will make sure they'll submit in their presence even if it means scaring the living daylights out of them. The Trejaxes suddenly grew stiff at the sight of their fins extending and sharping as potential weapons. These were not the typical defense type fins that many breeds process as a means of protection.
These fins were design to kill.
Realization ram them like a charging orca, their eyes growing wild in desperation. The Trejax Zoras look frantically for an escape route, knowing full well they had anger some of the ocean's most dangerous Zoras imaginable. And Shark Zoras at that. Eyes lock on to the much larger breed, with the female grabbing her child protectively. The other Zoras were at least two to three times their size, streamline and muscular all the same. Their claws and fangs were the deadliest they have ever seen on any Zora. Even a Koreoip's serrated teeth may be put to shame when compare to their claws alone. And those fins...Those razor sharp fins...glinting in the dying sunlight...
The Trejaxes suddenly scream and swam around chaotically, crashing into each other in their terror and scrambling to their flippers. They bolted out of their as fast as they could with their baby, the Zoras becoming blurred streaks trailing bubbles behind them. The Sylovaakiens watch briefly as the other Zoras swam away, becoming smaller and smaller until they fully disappear into the ocean gloom.
Both Zoras immediately turn around to check upon their own Tadpole, shaking in his terror and whistling for much needed comfort as he lay curled up on the sand. Tears bubbled from his shimmering, sapphire orbs, staring back at his Mommy and Daddy-Zora. The adult Zoran Heroes spoke to him, stroking his head and blew gentle bubbles to calm their tiny offspring. Mikau, though on the verge of crying, lifted from his cowering position and softly nudge the bubbles. When they pop, Mikau soon became invested in popping them all, forgetting about the ordeal as he try to snap at them.
Not wanting to risk anymore freak encounters that may otherwise traumatize Mikau, Nicoda and Ruuna picked him up and swam in the direction of the city where their remaining offspring roam. Mikau remain with Ruuna momentarily throughout the first half of the way back, until he suddenly wiggle free and hurried over to Nicoda.
"Nic, a little someone wants to be with you," Ruuna chime. Her body still ache from the Trejax attack, but she honestly dealt with a lot worse in her lifetime.
"Hm?" The larger male had to stop when he took notice of his son coming towards. Mikau didn't stop in time and clumsily bump into Nicoda's sensitive nose, causing the Bull to shudder and Mikau to be push back by the impact. Shaking his daze away, he eagerly tug at the father's ear fin and settle onto his head, hoping for a nice ride. Nicoda couldn't help but smile at his pup as he continued to lead the way, his mate now side to side with them.
However, the encounter with the Trejaxes only reminded him of the vision he witness back at the Great Bay Temple. The bloodshed, war, and the lone Hylian boy replayed in his mind again and again. He look at his son and his symbol. Mikau had grown quite brave in the past few months and the Mark of Nayru continues to glow more confidently every passing day.
"Ruuna," Nicoda address to his mate. The female Zora look at him from the corner of her eye despite not having pupils. "How would you feel if I were to tell you our son is truly the next Sea Deity?"
Ruuna didn't say anything for a moment, but turn her head to face him. "To be honest, I wouldn't be surprise at all. I've always felt this strong energy in him that were absent in other pups baring the same symbol. Its scary to think what might happen to him when the rest of the city takes notice. I'm more worry about them taking him away."
"Don't worry," Nicoda gently cooed, pressing his head against hers. Mikau shuffle in between to snuggle both parents. "We'll work it out. I'll make sure they never take him away. Even if I have to fight for his freedom, I'll do anything for our child. His deserves a happy and carefree childhood."
Ruuna smile, her eyes sparkling with compassion for both Nicoda and Mikau. "I'm sure you will."
Meanwhile...
The Trajaxes, more or less confident they outswim the Makos, finally came to a stop, huffing and wheezing from exhaustion. Their son squirm out of his mother's grip and snuffle the sand, scaring the timid garden eels in the process.
"You...said...there-were no...Shark Zoras in that region!" the female spat, still shaky from their encounter.
"Don't look at me," the male huffed. "Blame that Hyrulian Italiek for misguiding us like that." The male Trejax Zora continue in defense.
"Doo!" squeak the tiny tadpole happily. He poke at his parents, trying to get their attention.
"Not now, Japas," he heard his mother say as she continue to breathe heavily.
"Well, at least know never to go back there again," the male muttered.
"At I know who to clobber when we get home! Have you seen the size of those Zoras? Those were the biggest Makiiekdo Zoras I've seen in my life! They were the size of freaking Koreoip Zoras!"
"Doo!" Japas puff his gills in annoyance as his parents continue to bicker. He wants to show his momma and pops something pretty!
"Maybe that's why the Zorthora government and other Zoran cities restrict access to those otherwise gorgeous areas; they might be crawling with ferals and dangerous breeds."
"Doo!" Japas snuffle the sea floor until he found a tiny pebble. He then search for the rare shells usually found in Sylovaakien territories. He found a few, push them together in a bundle and turn back to his parents.
"I guess you have a point there... Those Zoras could eat a Pernemoca Zora if they wanted to!"
"Doo! Doo!"
"What is it, son?" the male ask to his frantic child. Delighted to get their attention, Japas pick up a stone and flutter over to a small pile of glittering crystal seashells. He dropped the small rock on them, ringing a hollow melody. The parents perked as their son repeated the process again. And again. And again.
The jack base Zoras stare in wonder, curious as to where he learn this unusual behavior. The melody rang and echo far and wide in the surrounding waters, brushing their inner ears with its sweet music.
"Well," the female spoke with a sideways glance to her partner. "this is interesting."
Hell's Trench-A dangerous and deadly deep sea trench located thousands of miles off the coast of Great Bay. It is rumor by Zoras throughout Termina's history that the trench is gateway to Hell and all evil are spawn from it.
Koreoip Zoras-Large hulking Zoras who are descendants of Great White Sharks. They're are a short-temper, arrogant fighting breed whom should be treated with caution and respect. Once one shows them they mean no harm, a Koreoip will relax and open up to that person, becoming curious and quite pleasant. However they are not very talkative, so if one grains their trust, conversation are more frequent then those who are seen as unworthy in their eyes. They prefer to hang with docile individuals and are loyal to their true friends, willing to fight to the death to protect love ones.
Trejax Zoras-Any Zoras with long bang-like fins on their head, such as Japas, Rutella, Ralis and the other Twilight Princess Zoras are known as Trejax Zoras. They are a nimble and agile breed known to be some of the swiftest Zoras in the seas. Trejaxes are evolve trevallies, animals known to use their heads as battling rams. The animals are also known as Jacks, thus the Trejax's name is a combination of the two words describing the same creature. Trejaxes have strong skulls, able to break rocky corals in one ram. They are semi-aggressive and are nervous around Zoran shark breeds.
"Doo"-It's "dude" in baby language. Japas fail adorably at trying to mimic the word lol.
