Chapter 49 - Lake Akkala
Summary: In the Victory Timeline, Mipha and Link take a memorable day trip to Lake Akkala. Lapha feels frustrated at North Hyrule's secrecy over technology but still wishes to collaborate. Lapha recalls a traumatic incident with her sister Mila and feels she should be home to support her with Midon's recovery.
"A swim down two more waterfalls, sweetheart, and we're there," said Mipha, her voice filled with anticipation.
"I'm very familiar with the area," said Link as he nodded. "I've traveled here before."
"Trust me, you are not familiar with where I am going to take you, sweetheart," said Mipha, who was especially keen to share some memorable underwater experiences unique to Zoras with her cherished husband.
Mipha and Link had decided to spend a day at Lake Akkala, a familiar spot known for its peaceful serenity. Before leaving, they had bid farewell to their eldest daughter, Mila, at their house located by Mikau Lake. She and her brother Midon were the only ones home at the time, but Midon was still in his room when they departed. Their journey began by swimming up two waterfalls, originating from the expansive lake that bordered Zora's Domain.
Mipha was in a very happy mood. Life had never been better for her, and she felt more fulfilled than ever. Being married to Link, the man she deeply loved, and seeing him overcome his previous water limitations, was more than she could have dreamed of. From the start, he had shown nothing but love and consideration. Even as a Hylian, he had agreed to adapt to her aquatic lifestyle, such as sleeping in the water with her. But their life together had improved tremendously since then. Now they could share every waking moment, even enjoying their newfound ability to be together underwater.
Of course, all this had been easier for her than for Link. He was the one who gave up his former life. So now and then, Mipha felt the need to reinforce her hope that he harbored no regrets over his decision.
"Happy to be a Zora?" she asked as they held hands and strolled toward Toto Lake.
"Of course I am! You need to keep asking?" said Link, trying to reassure her. "I admit I was initially shy about it, especially with Zelda. But that was more because I worried needlessly about her reaction. Being your husband the way you always deserved has been nothing short of amazing for me, sweetheart, and I hope for you, too. I know I made the right decision - for both of us."
Mipha squeezed his hand and smiled, feeling reassured once again. Then to lighten the moment, she couldn't help but tease him.
"That's wonderful to know, but I guess how you feel doesn't matter anyway. The change is permanent, dearest, and you're stuck with me forever as Zora to Zora."
"And I don't mind that one tiny drop," laughed Link as he squeezed her hand back, knowing her sense of humor.
The weather was beautiful today, with the mid-morning sun lighting up the sky, its reflection glimmering on the surface of Toto Lake. Mipha and Link waded into its southern edge, frightening away a Hot Footed Frog that scurried out of sight.
"This tiny lake holds some fond memories for me," said Mipha as she grew quiet for a moment, and Link was careful to avoid interruption.
Toto Lake was indeed a treasure chest of childhood memories for Mipha, particularly of her late mother. It was a place where her parents would sometimes take her to swim. One particularly unforgettable moment occurred when she frightened her parents, deliberately letting the water's current carry her over the waterfall and into South Lake Akkala. Her father remembered the incident quite well and sometimes mentioned it, saying it showed his daughter's courage and fearless spirit, even at a tender age. But he would also confess that it wasn't seen that way when it happened. She recalled a time her father had explained the incident to Link.
"Mipha was quite adventurous as a small child, Link. One time the three of us, my dear Marena, Mipha, and I, went to Toto Lake. Little Mipha happily played in the water, splashing and chasing fish or frogs. Marena and I must have turned our back on her for only a moment or two. When we turned back, she was gone. Marena screamed out her name, and we rushed to look for her. After searching, we saw her floating below in South Lake Akkala. We dove down to her as fast as we could, fearing she had been washed over the falls and was hurt. I would have never forgiven myself if any harm had come to her, and Marena's heart would have broken on the spot. As we rushed to her, we both wondered how she could have been washed over the falls so easily. The current is not strong in Toto Lake, and she was always a good swimmer. When we reached Mipha, she smiled at us, pointed out some of the fish there, and was completely unhurt. We realized she had deliberately gone over the falls to see what was below. Marena was so relieved she held her in her arms and kissed her, not letting her go the rest of the afternoon. Mipha was her pride and joy."
Anyway, now Toto Lake was a calm body of water and simply a stop along their way.
"Shall we continue?" Mipha asked finally, her thoughts returning to the present.
"Yes, lead on, sweetheart," Link responded with a gentle smile.
They next swam down the falls into South Lake Akkala. And as they continued north, they navigated the central waterfall of the three cascading falls that lead down into Lake Akkala. Mipha's eyes followed Link's fluid movements, proud to see how well he more easily negotiated the waterfall.
"Your waterfall descents have improved dramatically, darling," Mipha remarked, a delighted note in her voice as they floated beside each other at the waterfall's base. "It's more a purposeful glide now and less a hapless plunge like before."
"Funny, but you can't entirely blame me, dearest," laughed Link. "Thanks to your armor, I had far more practice going up waterfalls than down. Going down, I used to paraglide. But yes, I think I'm adapting well to my new form. But I still need to be mindful of my actions sometimes and think about what I need to do."
Mipha responded with an encouraging smile, her hand interlacing gently with his. "In time, it will become instinctual. But for now, you're doing wonderfully."
They let the current slowly float them away from the falls and were soon greeted by a chorus of quacks from a trio of nearby Bright Chested Ducks, their flamboyant feathers gleaming under the sun. There was nobody else there, and the serene ambiance of the vast lake made it seem as if it was their own private retreat. The only sign of civilization was Tarry Town, visible far above. And as Zoras, they could choose to remain underwater if they wished and out of sight of any nosy distant onlookers.
There was some underwater motion, and Link suddenly lunged forward, his agile movements netting two perfect fish for a quick midday meal.
"Nicely done, catching two fish at once, dear," said Mipha approvingly as she took one of the fish from him. "I should have known that Zora skills involving meals would be the quickest ones you mastered."
"You still can't get over teasing me about my appetite, can you?" laughed Link.
They enjoyed their quick meal and then floated beside each other, surveying their surroundings.
"It's very scenic here, with the cliffs, forest, and wetlands," said Link
"We're fortunate to have such picturesque retreats so close to home. It makes for a perfect short escape," Mipha replied, her eyes mirroring his appreciation.
"And just beyond the northern shore is the Malin Bay and great Akkala Sea," said Link as he stared in that direction.
"You remember it or sense it?" said Mipha.
"Maybe a bit of both, I guess," said Link thoughtfully. "I can feel a hint of salt water in the offshore breeze, though I'm not sure exactly how I feel it."
"That's good that you are growing acclimated to your new senses," said Mipha. "We Zoras can sense the presence of water if it's not too far away. It's a hereditary Zora survival instinct from ages long past."
"I can understand that, given the need to soak every so often."
"Anyway, shall we proceed underwater? There's something special I want to show you. And there's no need to brace for a deep Hylian breath anymore," teased Mipha.
"You're such a comedian," laughed Link as he shook his head and then felt Mipha's hand wrap around his, guiding him below the surface and deeper into the lake's depths.
The aquatic world below was a riot of life, painted in diverse shades of blue and green. Small groups of Hyrule Bass flickered swiftly past while the less common Hearty Bass swam with placid elegance, preferring to stay nearer the waterfalls. An occasional Staminoka Bass lumbered by, their large, robust bodies, a testament to their endurance. Mighty Carps darted, cutting through the water like arrows, while Armored Carps glinted like pieces of moving armor.
Link and Mipha, effortlessly aligned, navigated the serene waterscape, pausing now and then to marvel at a peculiar fish one of them pointed out or a striking underwater rock formation. The sun's light dimmed as they plunged deeper, its rays piercing the aquatic roof in softer wavering shafts of light, their eyes acclimating easily to the subdued glow.
As they swam further north, Mipha directed their attention toward a hidden cave entrance surrounded by green underwater plants that seemed to dance with the movement of the water. They swam hand in hand, and as they neared the cave, Mipha felt a growing sense of excitement.
An old wooden wagon rested near the cave's entrance and looked like it had been there for a long time, with its wood slowly rotting and sinking into the underwater sand. It was a piece of history, a forgotten item from a time long passed. Who knew what stories the wagon could tell about the journeys it had been on before it ended up here? After briefly examining the wagon, they entered the cave together.
Inside the cave, Link was greeted by an unexpected sight. The cave walls were not dark and dreary as he expected but instead were dappled with bright blue patches. A closer examination revealed this was due to luminescent algae coating sections of the walls, and this natural light bathed the whole cave. Link's expression betrayed his pleased surprise, and Mipha smiled, as this was what she had wanted.
Swimming further in, they could make out breathtaking formations of stalactites and stalagmites that must have been created long ago when this cave was once above ground. These formations were all around them, which was a sight to behold. Mipha and Link took a moment to admire the view until a passing Hyrule Bass startled them for a moment. Then they grinned and shared a brief kiss before swimming deeper in, Mipha eager to show Link more.
The cave opened up into a large chamber filled with more intermittent clumps of luminescent algae that twinkled against the cave's ceiling and walls like clusters of stars, creating a mesmerizing effect. You could almost imagine you were looking at the sky, not inside a cave. Their Zora eyes automatically adapted to the dimmer conditions, making the glowing algae stand out even more. The whole place looked magical and something Link had never seen before. He had been on many adventures and seen many wondrous things, but he had never seen something so unique. It made him realize how much he loved exploring new places, especially underwater ones. And sharing this experience with Mipha made it even more special. He felt even more confident that he had made the right choice in life.
A gentle tug brought his attention back to Mipha, and he turned his gaze from the cave to her. Her eyes sparkled with a fiery golden light, and an inviting smile graced her lips. He recognized her mood in this underwater refuge, which kindled a desire that also welled up in him. Without needing words, they kissed, embraced, and continued on from there, their bodies passionately joined in perfect harmony.
Afterward, they held hands and slowly exited the cave, again pausing to admire the unique rock formations on the way. They ascended toward the lake's surface upon leaving the cave, breaking through into a clear evening sky. Time had passed more quickly than they realized. But the smiles on their faces radiated their contentment.
"That was wonderful, really special," said Link. "I never imagined something so beautiful lay underwater. And making love in such a special place was just amazing!"
"It was for me, too, and I loved having a chance to share that spot with you," said Mipha as she brushed her fingers across Link's cheek until their lips met in another kiss.
"I love you so much!" Link whispered against her lips.
"I love you, too, with all my heart," she answered before pressing their lips together again.
This trip far exceeded Link's expectations. From the luminescent allure of the cave to the captivating splendor of the lake, every moment was etched in his memory.
The Bright Chested Ducks were roosting for the night, their vibrant feathers dimming with the receding sunlight, and the water was peaceful, the thunderous sound of the waterfalls competing with the chirping of night insects.
"I believe it's time we returned home," Mipha proposed, then checked her Tab to see a message from Mila.
"Oh, it looks like Mila took Midon to North Hyrule, and they expect to return tonight," said Mipha.
"That's nice though rather unusual," said Link. "I think something must be up with Midon. We haven't seen or heard from him since he left for Larena's party the night before last."
"I'm sure we will learn all about it when Mila and Midon get home," said Mipha. "But Mila has an uncanny instinct of knowing how to care for someone."
"Indeed she does, much like you. She literally saved my life more than once," said Link.
They paused to gaze at the stars for a moment, and then Link spoke up.
"But this has been an amazing day, sweetheart," said Link as he took her hand. "That cave was a complete surprise. We should do this more often."
"Of course, we will, dearest," said Mipha with a smile. "We have all the time in the world now."
"Yes, yes we do," Link replied, his voice soft with contentment.
"Let's head home, and it sounds like we may have the place all to ourselves for a while," said Mipha.
"Yes, that's great! Um, are you hungry yet, by the way?"
Mipha laughed and shook her head.
Meanwhile, an intellectual exchange was in progress at the Royal Ancient Tech Lab. Lapha was in deep discussion with Aldora, a scientist from the Sheikah community of North Hyrule, focused on their enigmatic technology.
Lapha addressed Aldora, her voice echoing a tone of concern and curiosity, "I perceive, Aldora, that there's a reservoir of scientific knowledge within your community, secrets that you haven't disclosed to us. It's been 33 years since my parents first ventured into your realm and 23 years since your ruler pledged loyalty to the Queen of Hyrule. Wouldn't it be fair to say we've earned your trust?"
Aldora nodded understandingly, replying, "There might be certain aspects of technology we haven't disclosed, Dr. Lapha. However, I'm not privy to all such information. My journey in the Sheikah hierarchy began merely eleven years ago as an apprentice, and my current position isn't high enough to be informed about all such matters. Master Saldon and Queen Faray handle such things. But rest assured, I will pass along your concerns to Master Saldon."
Lapha, persisting in her inquiry, questioned further, "What about the knowledge within your grasp, Aldora? Can you enlighten me about your latest invention, your Tab with three-dimensional photography capabilities?"
Aldora responded cautiously, "It's in the prototype stage, Dr. Lapha. We intend to share the specifications and blueprints as soon as it's ready for general usage. Remember, trust is a two-way street. We hope our actions over the years have solidified your trust in us and you understand that we would never act against your interests. Any technology we withhold is simply to prevent any potential harm."
Just then, Lapha's Tab buzzed, indicating a message.
Mila_ZD:To:Lapha_ZD:: Midon is faring well, thanks to Tiray.
"Excuse me, Aldora," said Lapha. "It's a message from my sister, Mila. I'm afraid we've had some family drama today."
"I hope it's nothing serious," said Aldora.
"Oh, no, not terribly serious," said Lapha. "My brother Midon and his girlfriend Larena broke up yesterday evening. Larena is quite a skilled architect, having designed the Spool Bight pier. And you may have met Larena's younger sister, Karena, who studied technology here. Midon took the breakup hard, and Mila took Midon to North Hyrule today to keep him from moping about the house and hopefully lift his spirits. While there, I gather Midon was introduced to Princess Tiray. It seems meeting Tiray brightened Midon's mood considerably. Let me quickly answer Mila."
Lapha_ZD:To:Mila_ZD:: Really? Tiray? That's even faster than your magic!
"Still, I think I should go home tonight," said Lapha. "Mila has been working all day to cheer Midon up, and it's only fair I help her, even if he seems more on the road to recovery than we thought, thanks to Tiray."
"Ah, yes, Mistress Tiray," said Aldora, nodding. "We want to study what happened to her in greater detail. It seems Ancient Energy holds some surprises, even for us. I imagine you wish to learn more also, Dr. Purah, given your interest in healing and such."
"Yes, indeed I do," said Lapha. "It's just a matter of finding the right time to do so. Do you want to work together on this matter? I think a collaboration would benefit us both."
"I see no reason why we cannot, but I'll speak with Master Saldon to be sure. But given Mistress Tiray is a Royal family member makes matters more delicate. Queen Faray and Tiray's sister Laray are very protective of her, not wanting to jeopardize her recovery through our examinations. But we will get to it eventually."
"Yes, I agree," said Lapha.
"And from what you say, it sounds as if Mistress Tiray may be a member of your royal family too someday," laughed Aldora.
"That's a bit premature, Aldora," laughed Lapha. "But stranger things have happened. However, Mila and I will try to ensure Midon doesn't rush things. Sometimes he is a bit impetuous."
"Then I will wish you goodnight and safe travels and will see you when you return," said Aldora.
With her belongings gathered, Lapha made her way towards the nearby ferry terminal, departing from the lab's familiar environment. The thought of returning home brought comfort to her, but it was tinged with a feeling of concern for her sister, Mila. Leaving her as the sole sibling responsible for managing Midon seemed unjust.
Mila's healing power was a double-edged sword; while it allowed her to aid others, it also made her more vulnerable. It instilled in her an intense sensitivity, a deeper sense of empathy that extended to all around her, and unfortunately, that included a heightened propensity for anxiety and worry.
While awaiting the ferry, she found herself revisiting a memory that had left a significant imprint on her mind. It was the distressing time when her brother, Linky, had nearly succumbed to severe blood loss. Mila had been left in a desperate fight against time on Wintre Island, trying to stimulate his body to produce more blood — a feat she had never before attempted.
"We're losing him, Mila," said Midon as he watched his unconscious brother grow paler and his breathing slow.
"Will you clam up and let me concentrate!" Mila cried out in frustration, then wiped some tears from her eyes.
"Just do what you can, Mi," said Lapha as she gently touched Mila's shoulder. "We know you're doing your best."
Mila took a deep breath, then her hand glowed again, and she began running it up, down, and over Linky's inert body as everyone anxiously looked on, and Mila wiped away tears every few minutes. He can't die! Please, Nayru, he can't die, Mila silently prayed as she continued to work.
"I think it's working, Mi," cried Lapha after a few more minutes as she noticed some color returning to Linky's face.
Encouraged, Mila concentrated even harder. After several more minutes, suddenly Linky coughed up some blood, then coughed again and opened his eyes.
"Mila?" Linky mumbled.
"Stay still. I'm not done yet," said Mila wiping away tears, but tears of relief now. Lapha and Midon were wiping their eyes as well.
Mila worked for a few more minutes, then stopped. Linky's breathing was back to normal, and his color had returned.
"I'm feeling a lot better. I need to get back to North Hyrule to be with my wife and daughter," said Linky, about to get up when Mila held him down.
"You're not going anywhere but home in our Domain until we're sure you're all right," said Mila.
"I was told to let you know that your wife, Mistress Tila, and daughter Tara will be meeting you at the Domain," said Kalon. "They are traveling here on one of our fast watercraft. And Her Majesty, Queen Faray, said she also wants you to remain here for now. Um, she added that it was not a request."
"Fine," said Linky in a resigned voice. "I had hoped to return to North Hyrule not to worry anyone."
"It's a little late for that now, Linky," said Lapha. "You already worried every drop out of all of us."
"I'm sorry," said Linky as he sighed, closed his eyes briefly, then opened them again. "I wasn't as smooth in combat as I used to be. But I learned my lesson. It won't happen again."
"You should have done more combat practice in the simulator before going into battle," said Midon. "That's what it's for."
"You're right," said Linky.
"Okay, let's get home, our home by Mikau Lake," said Mila.
Mila finally took out her Tab, saw the list of unanswered messages, then messaged her parents that they were on their way home.
"Another few minutes, and Mom and Dad would have been here to see how serious this was," said Mila.
"Speaking of that, can you at least play down the severity of what happened? If Tila knows, I will never hear the end of it," said Linky.
"Not a chance!" said Mila. "You don't know what you put me through. I want you to remember this and learn your lesson, and the more people who remind you of it, the better."
After getting home, they helped Linky into his room and then into the slumber pool there.
"I'll stay with him until Tila arrives," said Lapha as she joined Linky in the pool and put her arm around him.
"Okay, good night," said Mila and Midon as they left the room.
"I'm glad you're okay, Linky," said Lapha as she held him. "You nearly broke a lot of hearts today."
"I know," said Linky. "I should have trained more first, as Midon said."
"Now, don't worry and rest," said Lapha. "Your body still needs to get back to normal."
"I love you, Laff," said Linky.
"I love you, too," said Lapha as she kissed him on the forehead.
Linky closed his eyes and soon fell asleep. It was an hour or so later that Tila and Tara arrived, Tila holding Tara's hand. Lapha climbed out of the pool.
"He's fine, just tired now," whispered Lapha. "He'll be thrilled to see you both when he wakes up."
"Thanks for staying with him," said Tila. "Growing up, you always were the best at looking out for him."
"I know, but now it's your turn," said Lapha. "Good night."
Lapha hugged Tila and kissed Tara goodnight. Then she turned to leave but paused at the door as she watched Tila and Tara climb into the pool with Linky, and both put their arms around him. Tara rested her head on Linky's shoulder. Lapha smiled, then turned and closed the door behind her. Everything would be okay now.
Then Lapha went to check on Mila and heard sobbing behind her closed bedroom door.
"Mi, it's Laff," said Lapha. "Can I come in?"
There was no answer, but this was not the time to stand on ceremony. Lapha entered the room and found Mila floating in her slumber pool and crying. Lapha at once joined her in the water and put her arm around her, which Mila ignored for a moment, then returned her hug.
"It's okay, Mi, don't cry. It all worked out well," said Lapha.
"But I was so close to failing, Laff," said Mila. "I never tried so hard, yet I was still so close to failing. I would never forgive myself if Linky had died."
"But you didn't fail," said Lapha. "And if you had, it would have been from his injuries in battle, not because of you. You did great, Mi. You were wonderful under pressure. You need to believe in yourself and stay strong - for all of us."
Mila's sobbing began to lessen as she held Lapha close.
"It was just so incredibly stressful," said Mila. "I prayed to Nayru not to let him die. I prayed over and over while I tried to heal him."
"I'm sure that helped as well, Mi, and your prayers were answered," said Lapha. "Now you need to rest and remember you did well. You're the hero in this."
Mila relaxed in Lapha's arms, and soon her breathing stopped. She was exhausted and had fallen fast asleep. Lapha stayed with her all night.
So, there were moments when the dynamics of sibling roles were inverted, and the youngest had to step into the role of the eldest, providing guidance and support to her brothers and sisters. The predicament Midon found himself in was by no means as severe as the life-threatening trial Linky had faced. However, Mila's compassionate nature would still yearn for Midon's well-being and happiness. Therefore, it was important for her to be there, to lend her support and make sure Midon bounced back to his cheerful self.
After a brief wait, the hum of the approaching ferry broke the silence. She stepped aboard the vessel and watched it pull away, leaving behind the lab. Soon she would be home. Wouldn't her parents be surprised!?