Chapter 46 - Moving On
Summary: Midon seems heartbroken, and Mila comforts her brother. They travel to North Hyrule together, which may hold a cure.
The early morning sun shone brightly in Zora's Domain as Mipha and Link prepared to embark on their day's adventure. Their older daughter Mila had just finished having breakfast with them.
"Where are you two off to today?" Mila inquired.
"Today we're visiting Lake Akkala," said Link.
"We're exploring more underwater landscapes, sweetheart," Mipha added. "Now that my dear husband lives in our world and can enjoy those hidden wonders with me."
"I hope you both have a great time," Mila said. "And Dad, remember to give me more material for the journal as you promised. Unfortunately, your recent contributions have been a bit sparse."
"I'll work on doing better, sweetheart," Link chuckled.
"Say hello to Midon for us when he finally wakes up," Mipha requested. "He came home late last night and went straight to his room."
"I will," Mila assured her. "I caught a plump Hearty Bass for him and put it on ice."
"Shall we go, sweetheart?" Link asked Mipha.
After exchanging hugs and kisses, Mipha and Link left. Mila returned to the kitchen table, went over some messages about work, and began organizing her notes for the next journal update. By the time she finished, it was mid-morning, and the sun shone on the nearby Mikau Lake waterfall. She checked the time and frowned. Midon should be awake by now. What was he doing in his room? Mila rose from her seat and walked to Midon's room, stopping outside the closed bedroom door to listen.
At the moment, only the two siblings were home. Mipha and Link had gone out, their sister Lapha was absorbed in her work at the Royal Ancient Tech Lab near Hyrule Castle, and their Hylian brother Linky was staying with his wife Tila and their children, Tara and Lanka, in North Hyrule.
Mila's brow furrowed with concern as she noticed the unusual silence from her brother's room. While Midon occasionally slept late, it was never this late.
"Midon?" Mila called through the door, her voice tinged with worry. "Are you okay? I saved a Hearty Bass for you."
No response.
"At least tell me you're not hurt, or I'm coming in no matter what," Mila warned.
"I'm fine," Midon replied, his voice strained. "Now, please let me be."
Mila sighed and retreated to the kitchen, wondering what was wrong. Finally, she sat at the table and sent a message to Lapha.
Mila_ZD:To:Lapha_ZD:: Hey, Laff, do you know what's up with Midon? He's been wallowing in his room all morning, hasn't eaten anything, and told me to leave him alone when we spoke through his closed bedroom door.
Lapha_ZD:To:Mila_ZD:: I have an idea. Let me check.
Mila occupied herself with the latest Hyrule news on her Tab while waiting for Lapha's reply. Soon, a message appeared on her screen.
Lapha_ZD:To:Mila_ZD:: It's what I suspected: Larena broke up with him last night.
Mila_ZD:To:Lapha_ZD:: Oh, wow! How do you know?
Lapha_ZD:To:Mila_ZD:: Larena's younger sister Karena has a friend who works as an intern here. I just spoke to her. Karena told her friend that Larena had ended her relationship with Midon because she felt he was not spending enough time with her.
Mila_ZD:To:Lapha_ZD:: Midon must be hurting. Thanks, Laff. I'll try to talk to him again.
Lapha_ZD:To:Mila_ZD:: Good luck, and give him my love.
Mila sighed, steeled herself, and returned to Midon's door.
"Midon, it's me again," she said softly. "Can we talk?"
"Go away, Mila," came the muffled response.
Mila leaned her head against the door, her voice tender. "Please. Let me in. I know why you're hurting, Midon. And you can't refuse to see your big sister."
A long pause ensued before Midon relented.
"Big sister by only a few minutes. But okay, come in," he said.
Mila pushed the door open and saw her brother, his sadness visible on his face as he floated in his slumber pool.
"Hey," she said gently, closing the door behind her. "Can I join you in the water?"
Midon shrugged but did not object, and Mila climbed into the pool next to him.
"How do you know what's bothering me?"
"Lapha spoke to a friend of Karena who works at the lab," she explained. "She told me what happened. I'm sorry, Midon."
Midon remained silent.
"Do you want to talk about it?" Mila asked, her voice full of empathy.
"Not really," Midon muttered.
Mila inhaled deeply and wrapped her arm around him. "Look, I know it hurts. But you're not alone in this. I'm here for you. And Laff sends her love."
Midon finally reciprocated the gesture, his arm encircling Mila. They floated silently beside each other, the weight of the moment hanging heavy in the air. Finally, after some time, Midon broke the silence.
"It seemed so sudden, Mi, though if I thought about it more, maybe it shouldn't have. It was right after the party for Karena. Most of the guests were gone, and Larena and I were about to say goodnight when she told me she didn't see things working out for us anymore. I wasn't making enough time for her, and she needed someone with a stronger commitment. And I realized she was right. I'm such a jerk!"
"Hey, don't say that. You're an amazing person. Maybe the fact that you two couldn't find time for each other was a sign that you weren't right for each other."
"Maybe. But I thought she was the one, Mi."
"I know," Mila said softly. "But sometimes things don't work out how we expect or want them to. And I believe if you and Larena are meant to be together, you'll find a way back to each other. I know your work often keeps you two apart."
Midon sniffed. "Thanks, Mi. But Larena and I have been so close for years. I really thought I could spend my life with her."
"Maybe you will," said Mila. "Time will tell. But look, we're all still young, just a bit over forty. Most Zoras don't settle down until their sixties or even later."
"I suppose you're right," said Midon. "And honestly, I did realize we were drifting apart a bit. What about you and Kendal?"
"We're still seeing each other when we can," said Mila. "But we agreed not to push things too fast. Anyway, that's not the point. Larena was your first love, Midon, and sometimes that works out, but a lot of times it doesn't."
"I guess that's true. And thanks for trying to make me feel better," said Midon.
Mila hugged him tightly. "Anytime. I know we like to tease each other, but I hope you know I love you, little brother."
"What's with this little brother and big sister stuff? I'm as tall as you, Sis, and less than an hour younger," said Midon, but he managed a small smile. "And I love you, too."
Mila held the hug for another moment, and then she pulled away.
"Now, how about some late breakfast? I saved a plump Hearty Bass for you, remember?"
"Thanks. I am pretty hungry."
They climbed out of the pool and walked together to the kitchen, where Mila retrieved the fish she had put on ice and served it to him.
"Still fresh enough?" she asked as he took a bite.
"Yes, it tastes great, thanks," he said, grinning a little.
Mila smiled back. "I'm glad you like it. You know, I was thinking maybe you could come with me to visit Linky and his family in North Hyrule. The trip would help take your mind off things."
Midon looked up, surprised. "Really? You want me to come with you?"
"Of course," Mila said, reaching out and squeezing his hand. "I don't want to go alone and don't want you to be alone either. And it'll be good for you to get out of the house and see some different scenery."
Midon considered it for a moment before nodding. "Okay. Yeah, let's do it."
Mila beamed. "Great! We can catch the next ferry. When you finish eating, go get your Tab, and let's go."
Midon resumed eating and finished the entire fish.
"That was delicious and very filling," said Midon. "I think you caught the biggest fish in the lake."
They left the house and began their swim across East Reservoir Lake. Ruta sat silently in the middle, reminding Midon of his mother.
"Where are Mom and Dad?" Midon asked as they swam alongside one another.
"Lake Akkala," said Mila. "Mom is thrilled Dad can share more underwater experiences."
They reached the eastern shore, then continued on.
"Don't you have to work today?" Midon asked as they approached the tunnel under Tal Tal Peak that led to the Spool Bight pier.
"I am working, in a way," said Mila. "Anything I learn in North Hyrule can be used in the next edition of my history book."
"I guess that's true," laughed Midon, and Mila was happy he seemed to be feeling better.
As they stepped into the tunnel bathed in the ethereal glow of Luminous Stones, Mila decided to keep the conversation flowing, hoping to divert Midon's thoughts. She was acutely aware that Spool Bight pier had been Larena's inaugural architectural project, and lingering there might stir up memories of her for Midon.
Fortunately, as they emerged from the tunnel, the northbound ferry was already cutting through the water, drawing closer to the dock. Sharing the pier with them was a Zora couple who exchanged warm nods of acknowledgment, their expressions friendly. Mila and Midon returned their greeting, then faced the oncoming ferry.
"Talk about perfect timing!" Mila exclaimed. "I hope the boat is brimming with tourists from Hateno Village."
"That would certainly benefit our Domain," Midon agreed.
As the ferry glided to a stop, a small group of passengers stepped onto the dock. Mila and Midon went aboard, settling into their seats as the vessel set off again. The afternoon sun danced upon the azure waves while a refreshing breeze accompanied the boat's forward motion.
"You know, this is the first time we've journeyed to North Hyrule together – just the two of us," Mila remarked, watching the Tingel Islands slip past as the ferry picked up speed.
"I suppose you're right," Midon replied. "Does Linky know we're coming?"
"I haven't told him a thing," Mila confessed with a grin. "It's going to be a surprise."
The rhythmic hum of the engines became a soothing sound as the ferry skimmed over the water. Minutes later, Lomei Labyrinth Island loomed larger and then receded as the vessel turned west, navigating the channel toward the North Hyrule dock.
"You must have mixed feelings about this place, don't you, Mi?" Midon observed. "I remember how you were held hostage by Queen Sopha, and Dad snuck over here to rescue you."
"It was a harrowing experience for Dad and me," Mila agreed. "It's hard to believe that was 23 years ago. But I've returned here many times since then and made much happier memories on those visits."
Just then, Mila's Tab buzzed. Lapha was calling to check on Midon.
"Here, Midon can speak to you himself, Laff. We're almost at the North Hyrule dock," Mila said, then handed her Tab to Midon.
"Hi, Laff. Thanks for asking about me. I'm feeling better, thanks to Mila," Midon replied. "I guess she can heal almost anything."
Lapha chuckled, "She's an incredible sister, Midon, and I hope you appreciate her. Just remember, we all love you and will help you get through this. Say hi to Linky and his family for me."
"I will," Midon promised, ending the call and handing the Tab back to Mila just as the ferry pulled up to the pier.
The afternoon sun hung high in a nearly cloudless sky as they disembarked at the North Hyrule dock.
"Let's go straight to Linky's house," Mila suggested. "It's not far – just south of Jabu Lagoon, which lies northeast of here."
"Lead the way, big sister," said Midon, smiling.
"You should visit here more often and learn your way around," said Mila.
The walk was pleasant and short. Mila rapped on the door upon their arrival, and Tila at once opened it.
"Mila! Midon!" Tila exclaimed, eyes alight with joy. "What a wonderful surprise! Come in, come in. My husband should be back soon. He's playing with Lanka at the lagoon, and Tara is still at school."
"Hi, Tila," Mila and Midon greeted her in unison, then noticed another Zora, a stunning female, in the room.
"Oh, apologies, Tila. We didn't realize you had company," Mila said. "I should have contacted you first, but we wanted to surprise Linky."
"Don't be silly, Mi. We're all family here," Tila assured them as she ushered them inside and closed the door after them. "I gather neither of you has had a chance to meet my cousin, Princess Tiray. Midon, I understand you were still sleeping when Tiray was brought to your Domain, and Mila, you were away at Hyrule Castle. Tiray, meet Princess Mila and Prince Midon of Hyrule's Domain – Mipha's and Link's eldest children."
Tiray rose gracefully and greeted them with a warm smile.
"It's a pleasure to meet both of you," Tiray said. "Now I've finally met all of cousin Tila's in-laws."
Midon seemed momentarily tongue-tied, so Mila spoke up.
"We're delighted to meet you as well," Mila said. "We heard about the harrowing ordeal you went through, Tiray. Our sister Lapha filled us in."
"Yes, it was a terrible experience, but thankfully I don't remember much of it – at least not yet," Tiray admitted. "Doctor Fanda said my memories might gradually return over time."
"Tiray's sister, Laray, had some matters to attend to and asked if Tiray could stay with me for the time being," Tila explained. "Her sister is still worried about leaving Tiray on her own."
"I keep telling her I'm okay, but we were always very close, and I can't stop her from worrying after all that happened," said Tiray.
"Tiray, you should know that Mila is the renowned author of the widely-read history of our land, and Midon is acclaimed for his expertise in Tab coding," said Tila.
"That's very impressive," said Tiray. "I've skimmed through your book, Mila. It's a fascinating read, and I need to delve deeper into it. And I'd love to learn more about coding Tabs, Midon. Is it very challenging?"
As Tiray smiled at Midon, Mila noticed her brother was blushing.
"Well, it's not too difficult once you've studied the basics and have the right tools," Midon stammered. "I'd be happy to show you how it's done, Tiray."
"I'd like that," said Tiray, then added. "Is anyone else hungry? I could go for some fresh porgies right now, and the lagoon is just a short walk away."
"I'm famished," Midon admitted, prompting Mila to raise an eyebrow, recalling his recent Hearty Bass meal.
"Let's go together then, Midon," Tiray suggested. "We can bring back enough for everyone."
"Sounds perfect," Midon agreed, leaving the house together.
"I'm so sorry you lost your memory, Tiray. It must be a terrible experience," said Midon as they walked toward the lagoon.
"It is," Tiray acknowledged, smiling at Midon. "But as my sister Larena keeps reminding me, it's time to move forward and create new memories. Don't you think that's wise advice?"
"Moving forward? Yes, it is," Midon concurred. "By the way, that red coral headpiece looks stunning on you."
"Thanks, I'm glad you like it," said Tiray. "Coral jewelry is quite popular here."
After Midon and Tiray departed, Mila addressed Tila.
"I can't believe it. I came here to help Midon deal with his heartache, or perhaps his bruised ego, after his long-time girlfriend Larena broke up with him," Mila shared. "He spent the entire morning sulking and refused to leave his room."
"I'm sorry to hear that. I remember meeting Larena at dances and concerts when I visited you; she seemed lovely. Nonetheless, Tiray appears to have brightened Midon's spirits considerably. I noticed how much he blushed when they first met."
"Me too!" Mila chuckled. "Are boys truly that fickle? Can they move on from their ex-girlfriends that rapidly, Ti?"
"I think it depends on the nature of the breakup and who the new person in their life is," Tila pondered. "Tiray is undeniably attractive, kind-hearted, and fun. She's a phenomenal dancer, too, assuming her dance memory returns. Plus, she's intelligent without being overly scholarly."
"Wait!" Mila interjected. "Did you mention that Lanka and your husband are at Jabu Lagoon?"
"Yes," Tila confirmed.
"I better message him immediately before he questions Midon about Larena," Mila decided.
Mila_ZD:To:Link_NH:: Midon is en route. Please do NOT inquire about Larena or our reasons for being here!
Moments later, a response appeared.
Link_NH:To:Mila_ZD:: Understood. Provide details later.
"Phew," Mila sighed.
"Smart move, Mila," Tila complimented.
"Still, it's evident my dear brother was smitten with Tiray from the moment we arrived," Mila mused. "Is this your royal family's strategy for taking control of our Domain? First, you marry my youngest brother, and now your cousin captivates my other one?"
"Ah, you've uncovered our nefarious plan, Mila," Tila joked. "Your uncle Sidon has also been dating someone here on and off. We simply need to find suitable partners for you and Lapha, and our takeover of your royal family will be complete. What an amusing way to seize power!"
Both laughed heartily before Tila continued.
"Your brother is quite the catch, Mila," Tila noted. "Handsome and intelligent."
"Are you referring to Linky?" Mila playfully inquired, winking.
"Him, as well," Tila laughed. "But I meant Midon, of course. I'd say the attraction isn't entirely one-sided. Now, I must insist that you and Midon join us for dinner. I've already invited Tiray and her sister Laray. Linky will be overjoyed to see you, and Tara will be thrilled when she returns from school. Besides, one-year-old Lanka needs to bond with his aunt and uncle more frequently."
"Sounds great," Mila agreed. "Midon and I can catch the late ferry back. Maybe my dear brother's heart will heal by the time he and Tiray finish catching porgies."
"Very possibly," Tila chuckled. "There's nothing like being in water together to grow closer."
Meanwhile, Tiray and Midon found Linky playing with Lanka when they reached Jabu Lagoon.
"Midon! Welcome!" Linky exclaimed as they hugged. "Mila alerted me you were coming."
"Wow, Lanka's growing so fast," Midon observed.
"Yes, and he's quite mischievous," Linky laughed. "I'm glad you and Tiray are here. He sometimes likes to submerge at the bottom of the lagoon and swim away from me."
"We'll help if needed," Midon promised. "But now, Tiray and I are going to catch some porgies for everyone."
"Great, we can all head home together when you're done," Linky agreed as Lanka resumed splashing playfully.
Tiray pointed to a spot in the lagoon. "I heard the best place for porgies is just beyond that rock formation. How about a friendly competition to see who can catch the most? We probably need around twenty in total."
"I love a challenge, Tiray," Midon grinned. "Let's do it."
The pair laughed as they dove underwater and swam toward the rock formation. After collecting enough fish, Tiray, Midon, Linky, and Lanka returned home, where Laray, Mila, Tila, and Tara were already waiting.
"I propose we enjoy a picnic outside since our house is rather small," Tila suggested, and everyone concurred.
Linky kindled a fire to grill his fish, and everyone congregated around it, engaging in conversations and sharing stories. Mila was delighted to witness Midon gradually unwind and become more sociable as the night progressed. He shared humorous tales and lighthearted anecdotes about the teasing he and Mila exchanged.
"You have an excellent sense of humor, Midon," Tiray remarked, laughing at one of his jokes.
"I don't always concur with that, Tiray," Mila said with a chuckle. "I believe my dear brother is merely showcasing his best qualities."
As the evening wore on, Linky took his leave to put Lanka to sleep. Shortly afterward, Tara wished everyone a good night and retreated to her room.
"We should probably head home," Mila mentioned, glancing at Midon. "You need to be up early for the children. Thanks for having us."
"We should be on our way, too," Laray chimed in.
"Feel free to visit anytime," Tila offered warmly. "As I mentioned, we're all family."
After bidding farewell, Mila, Midon, Laray, and Tiray departed together.
"We can walk part of the way together since Tiray, and I reside just north of the domain, and it's en route to the pier," Laray suggested.
Midon strolled beside Tiray while Mila engaged in conversation with Laray.
"It was a pleasure meeting you, Tiray," Midon said. "Um, would you mind if I added you on Tab? Perhaps we could see each other again?"
"I'd be happy to, and I'd like that," Tiray responded. "We didn't have ample time to discuss coding."
"Fantastic," Midon said, grinning.
Upon arriving at Laray's and Tiray's residence, Mila and Midon bade their farewells and proceeded to the pier. A ferry was already awaiting them at North Hyrule, the final stop. They boarded and found their seats as a half-moon illuminated the serene water.
"You appear much better," Mila noted.
"Yes, I do feel a lot better," Midon concurred.
"Let me update Lapha," Mila said. "She was concerned about you."
Mila_ZD:To:Lapha_ZD:: Midon is faring well, thanks to Tiray.
Lapha_ZD:To:Mila_ZD:: Really? Tiray? That's even faster than your magic!
After a brief wait, they settled into their seats as the first officer released the moorings, and the ferry commenced its southwesterly voyage.
"Tiray is remarkable, isn't she?" Midon commented. "Given everything she's endured, her outlook remains incredibly positive."
"She's rather attractive as well, right?" Mila teased, observing Midon blush.
"Yes, that too," Midon admitted with a chuckle. "I think I'll take your suggestion and visit here more frequently. I may even read your book to learn more about North Hyrule."
"Read my tedious book? I'm astonished. And you plan to visit more often just because of my advice?" Mila laughed, prompting Midon to join in.
"You know what?" Mila mused. "I believe Larena might have done you a favor, Midon."
"Perhaps so," Midon agreed, nodding as Mila wrapped her arm around him.
"Little brothers!" Mila exclaimed, shaking her head and embracing him as he grinned.
"You know, I think sisters are the best!" Midon murmured, draping his arm around Mila and closing his eyes.