Zora’s Domain has always had a beautiful tune associated with the underwater paradise the Zoras inhabit. But it’s rather interesting to think on this Valentine’s day that in the four games in which it appears, there is also a tragic love story that underscores these lush tones.
In Ocarina of Time, the origin of the theme, Princess Ruto gives Link the Zora Sapphire as a reward for rescuing her, but not before revealing that it is traditionally used as a symbol of betrothal, and perhaps jokingly (perhaps not) asks Link to honor that promise once they both become old enough, whether he likes it or not. Sadly, Link’s duties as the Hero of Time and Ruto’s duties as the Sage of Water mean that the promise will never be fulfilled.
In Majora’s Mask, after receiving the Zora Mask, Link is able to travel to Zora Hall, where this tune plays next. There, he learns about the sad tale of the source of the Zora Mask: Mikau, the guitarist for the Indigo-Go’s, and his love Lulu, the lead singer. Lulu had recently laid some eggs, but after they were stolen by pirates, Mikau went off to rescue them and hadn’t been seen since. Lulu has lost her voice due to all this, and their upcoming show had been canceled as a result.
For Twilight Princess, this time the story is of the love between mother and child instead of that of romance. When Zora’s Domain is invaded by Twilight Shadow Beasts, their Queen, Rutela, is tragically killed. When Link and Midna arrive to help heal the damage, they are surprised to find that her spirit lingers on, and in exchange for the Zora Armor she bids them to also save her son, Ralis, and to look after him until he is ready to move on.
Finally, Breath of the Wild returns Zora’s Domain to its roots with a story of unrequited love. The Zora champion Mipha harbored an infatuation for Link, and after her untimely demise during the Great Calamity, many of the Zora resent Link for his perceived wrongdoing. It is only after he retrieves the Zora Armor she made for him that the truth comes to light. This is also the version of the song I have highlighted for today.
At first, listen, the Zora’s Domain theme might sound cheerful or carefree. But upon remembering the loves that were cut short too soon, or would never come to pass, the song turns bittersweet. Perhaps this juxtaposition may be a comfort to you during our annual cultural celebration of love in its many forms, and to those struggling to find it, may comfort and companionship soon come your way.
