Of Royal Blood - The Legend Of Zelda

ImmortalsBlade · Nov 29, 2017

[X] Mipha doesn't want to seriously hurt or kill another person
-[X] Bring up how she said she thought Hylians were so alike, by saying you also aren't a big fan of just killing. Then ask her what she thinks, while emphasizing you aren't judging her but instead care about her.

"You don't sound weird at all Mipha," You tell the Zora Princess, you rest your arms on the railing watching the fish swim up to the surface as though expecting to be fed before you finally say, "I... I do not wish to kill people either."

Mipha looks up, yellow reptilian eyes wide in surprise. Then she sighs, resting her chin on her arms, "I thought I was being less obvious..."

She watches the river with you for a moment with half-closed eyes, letting no word pass between the two of you. When she speaks, it's barely above a whisper, "I just... I feel so cold at the thought now. Protecting others, beating back monsters I feel fine with but.... just the thought of taking someone's life..." She shudders, closing her eyes tightly. You put a hand on her, and she relaxes, tilting her head slightly so you could see her smile.

"There's nothing wrong with that Mipha," You offer to her, and she gives a small nod.

"I know... It's... It's just the regret I feel..." Her fins flex slightly as she straightens up, leaning forward with both hands on the railing, "Link, you've only known me for such a small amount of time. Before I met you, before you brought Zelda back into my life I was.... there was a reason those men were afraid of me."

Her grip tightens on the railing, her voice as quiet as the stream below you as she explains, "When my mother died, my father and brother did everything to keep our kingdom from falling apart as monsters closed in. They faced countless hordes, things that were from our deepest nightmares and triumphed again and again. They turned their grief into an inspiring strength that pulled my people up from the depths of their sorrow at the loss of their queen. If... if it wasn't for them, I might have never gained my healing abilities," She says with a chuckle before her expression falls again, "Yet all I could think of was how they had come too late to save my dear mother, and I sank into a darkness that no one could draw me from. And then..." She smiles slightly, happy memories flooding in, "And then I was introduced to Lady Zelda. She had lost her mother and only friend so quickly after each other, and our shared grief let us pour our hearts out to each other..."

She pauses, slouching slightly as she lets out a long breath, "We became such close friends, and... and though we had lost something that could never be replaced together we could move on, and I know both our mothers were smiling down on us. It is... hard to put into words how close we became in those days, two broken children together finding a way to put ourselves back together even as the whole world seemed dark and terrifying. When she departed, we promised that nothing would stop us from seeing each other, and would play together at the sacred grounds."

Her grip suddenly tightens on the railing, her lips curling back in a snarl that revealed pointed teeth, "Then... then word reached us that everyone... Th-that they had butchered everyone in the castle after unleashing unthinkable atrocities on them. Zelda herself suffering a truly horrific fate, only for the Empire to claim they were following her will after entombing her broken body where we had promised to play, marching on my home to turn my people into slaves," She spat out, physically shaking. She stops for a moment, composing herself and when Mipha does she looks utterly drained, "I was sooooo.... angry. When they came I was right there on the front lines, against everyone's wishes, just a child with a too large sword. When we lost and my father was captured we gathered members of our court and fled into the swamps, those who remained behind either surrendering or disappearing into the populace."

The next words Mipha spoke were quiet, her expression remorseful as she continued, "I was... obsessed with my rage, my anger at everything. So I... I started killing. I... I wanted to make them hurt, suffer for everything they did. All I could think about was how I imagined Zelda looked in her final moments, nothing else entered my mind for long. I'd throw myself against impossible odds, wanting to hurt or.... or see my friend and mother again..."

You reach out and put a hand on her back and Mipha shifts slightly closer to you. You don't feel embarrassed about it, not while she was telling you this.

"Then... then you showed up, Link, and right there beside you, she was there," She looks up to your face, giving you a small smile, "Zelda was still so small, still the same girl who dives into muck to pull out worms. Those scars she had... I thought if I could heal them she'd be exactly as she was. But she... She was a young woman now, and I didn't realize until the fight I was as we-"

She stops suddenly and pulls away from you while looking away from your face, stuttering out, "A-a-anyways, seeing how what had happened... what has happened hurt her in ways I can't heal it.. changed me. With Zelda back I.... All the anger left me. I saw everything I had done and couldn't help but imagine the people I had hurt... how many of them had loved ones? How many were just there because they had signed on to protect their families from monsters? How many families had I... had I hurt like we were?"

Mipha straightens up, wrapping her arms around herself, with one hand gripping her upper arm tightly. Head bowed she quietly tells you, "I couldn't continue, couldn't continue fighting that hopeless war. Couldn't watch the others starve in the woods anymore... But I didn't know what to do, until you..." She looks up at you, a warm smile appearing on her face, "Link... Seeing how you're with Zelda.... how you were always there to help I finally saw why she missed you. You were.... are her knight, can help her in ways I can't and... you helped me too, pulled me from a dark place. I guess well... us Princess's always need our dear knight to come save us..." Mipha gives a strained laugh and suddenly looks bashful, one arm hanging at her side as she nervously rubs her arm, looking away from you, "It's strange... when you were both leaving I-I knew I needed to be wi- like you. To travel and defend those I care about. To protect you both with my healing magic, I guess... I guess that was me unknowingly realizing I was one of the seven sacred maidens..."

Mipha pauses, eyes downcast as she considers what to say next, "Yet... looking back I can't help but feel selfish for forcing my brother and the others to follow us and now..." She turns slightly, looking back towards the river, "After spending time in this village I couldn't... couldn't possibly be how I was, hurt people like I did. But..."

"It feels like you might be forced into it..." You say grimly, and Mipha nods.

"Yes... That power I can use so casually... You know, my mother could redirect rivers to wipe entire monster camps off the face of the earth yet it feels I could do the same without even realizing it, and I am so untrained..." She waves a hand and a violent whirlpool forms in the water, churning with foam, terrified fish and river mud, that races down its length before splashing into the bank as the river curves, the fish trapped inside fleeing in all directions once freed "I... I feel like my power only has one purpose and that... that scares me..." She doubles over, hugging herself as though an intense pain shot through her. You rush to her side, crouching down to tend to her yet she continues speaking, "Goddess, what's going to happen to my people when they find out? How many will die rising up in rebellion if they find out I live and have the powers of Ruto?" A hand covers her mouth as the look of horror deepens, "I can't... I can't even save my father without bloodshed and horror erupting through Lanayru!"

"It doesn't have to be that way. If we're supposed to alter the moon itself than surely there'd be a way to free your people without bloodshed! I know Zelda, she won't rest until she found a way to do it!" You try to reassure Mipha, and the Zora Princess nods, swallowing slightly before speaking.

"Y-yes, yes you're right Link. Zelda she.... we spoke before and she said the same. Whatever plan the goddess has for us... we must see it through, learn what we can do. Kapson always says as such."

You nod and help her up. For a moment you both stand in silence watching the river before she says, "Thank you, Link. I-I needed someone to listen to me, more than anything else. Let me speak my heart without worry of hurting anyone..."

You give her a reassuring smile, "Hey, Zelda and I both are here for you, always. But... I think the others would understand, especially your brother. I know they'll support you, no matter what."

Her head lowers as she brings a hand up to her heart, but you can see the faint hint of a smile there, "Link..."

A moment passes before she coughs and turns away, reaching up to play with one of her head fins, "A-anyways we should probably head back... Would you mind walking with me?"

"Of course."

So the two of you walk back towards the manor, a few idle if slightly nervous jokes about what Impa will do to you both passing between the two of you. Suddenly though Mipha stops, a worried look of contemplation on her face.

"Mipha? You alright?" You ask, and Mipha shakes her head.

"I'm fine Link I just..." She pauses, looking you in the eyes "I've... I've had a horrible thought regarding my power as a holy maiden."

"What is it?"

"I... The legends never mention the maidens using their powers destructively!" She tells you, her voice dripping with dread.

"I don't know these legends but isn't that a good thing? Doesn't that mean we can pull this off?" You say, a bit confused on what she's so worried about. Isn't this a good thing?

Realization visibly dawns on Mipha's face. "Right.... right you've never heard them. Link, the maidens are supposed to empower the hero! Give him the strength to vanquish evil!"

You feel like a stone hit your gut as you consider what that meant, "Oh..."

"Link if I'm capable of doing all of this.... what will you be capable of?"

You don't have an answer for her.

++++

When you finally reach the manor a sombre cloud hung over the both of you. Impa was there, actually smiling slightly but it vanishes as soon as she see's both of your expressions.

"H-hey, it's alright. I'm not mad at either of you. I'm actually impressed!" She tries to reassure the both of you, and seeing the normally stoic Sheikah slightly flustered was amusing enough to get you both to perk up.

"No no Lady Impa, Link and I were just... well, I was worried that um..." Mipha tries to explain to Impa, "Well, I was worried my healing powers wouldn't be as um... It's a selfish worry so-"

Impa shakes her head, "Nonsense, I've never seen healing magic as impressive as yours. I can assure you, we will always be grateful for it."

Mipha smiles, and bows at the waist to Impa, "Thank you Impa, truly."

Impa nods, giving Mipha a warm smile that caught you off guard. You don't think you've ever seen Impa smile like that before, her face normally frozen in a look of stern watchfulness. It... suits her.

Koko and Cottla choose that moment to run in and latch themselves to Mipha's legs, followed quickly by Paya and Zelda in the doorway.

"I wanna see magic, I wanna see!" They both shout repeatedly, and Mipha promptly obliges, summoning water which she molds into shapes in the air as Koko and Cottla oohed and aahed. Zelda joined in, summoning a ball of light she set into the middle of them that made the water sparkle and shimmer, casting flowing shadows onto the walls of the entrance way.

As they played Mipha began to laugh, her face filled with joy at what she was doing with her magic and a warm feeling settled into your chest. This was proof alone that Mipha's abilities didn't have to be destructive.

Yours though...

++++

You take an early night, yet changing into your pyjamas you can't feel an inexplicable feeling of dread washing over you. At the same time, you felt restless and agitated like you were expecting a fight. It was an oddly familiar feeling, but where you had felt it before was drawing a blank. You conclude it was the summer heat, as you began to feel suffocated, as though a heavy pressure had settled on you. Sliding open the window to get some fresh air you freeze as you notice something, or rather the absence of something. The summer night, normally nearly deafening with the sounds of insects was as silent as a tomb. A terrible thought worms its way into your head, and you look up into the clear sky, hoping against hope as you look towards the moon, your heart dropping when you catch sight of it.

Bright as a torch, larger than anything you could imagine and red as blood.

You run out of the room, sword in hand and almost run straight into Impa who was already dressed in her armour. Without a word she nods towards the dining room and the two of you head over there. The others had already gathered, clad in their nightclothes. Dorian was with his daughters, armed to the teeth but holding them close to him as they whimpered in terror. Mipha and Paya were crouched down praying, Mipha to Nayru and Ruto and Paya to Hylia and her ancestors. Zelda was sitting by the window, so still, you'd have thought she wasn't breathing if you didn't see her blink. She was staring out at the sky, watching red curtains of light trace their way through the black sky like poison filled veins, the stars seemingly absent.

You sit down beside her, sword in hand. She makes no acknowledgement of your presence, no sign she even knows you're there. You keep an eye outside, watching the picturesque scene of the sleeping village be bathed in a hellish glow, shadows twisting into gnarled, grasping claws. Lights began to appear, almost like fireflies yet twisted by some perverse power, the light coming from these embers oily and polluting. Black mist rolled in from nowhere, making homes seem blurred and rusting, clinging to your lungs and choking you as though you were breathing in some foul blood-smelling resin. Black tendrils curled from the ground like candle smoke, writhing snakes that dissipated into more of that choking mist.

Clouds began to come in, faster than they should have, churning like a stormy sea and flashing with silent lightning. That was the worst of all, the silence that muted even the voices of those near you. Yet no matter how the clouds gathered the moon still shone through, a beacon warning of the darkness that was coming.

For hours you sat in this state, listening to prayers repeated over and over again as the moon grew so bright it was practically day. Then there was a shudder, as though the whole world had just taken a breath as the dark mist suddenly rolled over everything in a great wave. Then, as though someone had snuffed out a candle the night turned to near complete darkness. For a moment nothing made a sound, until suddenly... insects. The buzzing of countless creatures just outside. Pale silver light began to filter down from the sky, and thousands of pinpricks spread across the night sky.

The blood moon was over, and audible sighs of relief came from everyone. No matter how often it happened, sometimes even happening several nights in a row, no one ever got used to the blood moon. Nor the monsters that were always brought back to life.

You look over to Zelda expecting her to be freed from her trance, only to find her with her eyes closed and resting her head on the windowsill. Her chest rose and fell gently, her expression one of someone at total peace.

Zelda... had managed to fall asleep during a blood moon? You look around, but the others aren't reacting to it other than Mipha who looked to you with concern as you both realized something disconcerting.

This was how she was every blood moon...

++++

You barely manage to get any sleep after crawling back into your bed. When you finally do Zelda is at your door, rousing you from your slumber to your great irritation. To your surprise however her eyes were bloodshot, deep bags under them and her hair an unkempt mess. Zelda looked like she hadn't slept at all, which was strange as she was out like a light when you saw her last.

She joins you for breakfast after you get washed up and dressed, wearing again her overalls, a white shirt and those thick glasses, her hair tied back in a pony-tail. She doesn't say anything, just silently eating her meal with the enthusiasm of someone who dearly wished she was back in bed right now. After a few moments however she does say, "Link... should we talk about what we're going to be doing after we leave? I mean... if you aren't busy today."

She doesn't sound particularly enthused about it, and you half-consider taking her somewhere to cheer up a bit. Of course given how she's dressed you doubt Zelda wants to go anywhere today, if you go somewhere you'll be half-dragging her. You also haven't seen how Impa and Sidon are doing with their duties yet.

What do?
[] It is important to get a plan, stay here with Zelda.
[] Go to Prince Sidon.
[] Help Impa with her duties.
[] Write-in.

ImmortalsBlade · Dec 5, 2017

[X] It is important to get a plan, stay here with Zelda.

"We better get the plan sorted out rather then doing it last minute," You tell Zelda, and she nods.

So after eating your breakfast the both of you file into Zelda's room. She takes out the Sheikah Slate and taps at the screen a few times before setting it down, eye side up. The eye flashes for a minute before to your surprise a transparent, blue-tinged approximation of Hyrule materializes in front of you. Sheikah runes danced a mesmerizing blue in the air in front of you as the map bulged and twisted to conform to the very land of Hyrule until you were looking at a perfect 3D replication of it. Only one slight issue...

"Uh... your map is missing a bunch of towns," You point out to Zelda, who sighs as she takes a seat.

"I know, my map is horribly out of date by... well I'm not sure how many thousands of years," She tells you, crimson eyes looking over the map from behind her glasses, "The Sheikah Slate scans the local area as we travel and slowly processes it but its range is very small. We'd need to find Sheikah Towers and get them to scan the local topography and then manually try to apply scanned in map data to it. Not an easy task, but one that would make things much easier."

"Another thing on the to-do list then," You say, leaning against the wall and folding your arms over your chest.

Zelda makes a wordless sound of agreement and begins tapping and swatting at various Sheikah runes, making them swirl around in the air. Suddenly icons appeared on the map.

"Right, so starting off with what we're going to be doing in a few days," Zelda says as she leans back in her seat, "The blue icons you see appearing are Travel points. The only two we have are the one near your old home and that shrine where we met Mipha. The place we'll be going too is a Warp Gate, which will connect to this Nexus. Warp Gates should also have a travel point attached to it."

"What's the difference between a Warp Gate and a Travel Point, what do they do?" You ask.

"Well, a Warp Gate is a big well... Sheikah Gate. It creates a portal that connects to another Warp Gate. Step through the Portal and appear at your destination. The Sheikah used to use them to transport large amounts of people and supplies. A Travel Point can be activated with the Sheikah Slate, and it will immediately teleport the owner to that location. Sadly it only transports the owner. However, I've read passages speaking about groups, horses and carriages teleporting at once so maybe there are devices out there that'll let us do that," Zelda explains before she taps a rune and the map shrinks slightly.

"Now, of course, we'll have to reactivate this Nexus, a Nexus of what I'm not sure of. I'm also not sure where in Hebra Mountains the Kakariko Warp Gate will take us so I've already prepared a bunch of warm clothes for us," She tells you, readjusting in her seat, "What exactly will happen there I don't know, but I do know our next location after that."

She taps a few more runes and the map zooms in on a plateau surrounded on all sides by walls. On top were verdant forests and farmland and a mountain that reached to the heavens. The Great Plateau. Zelda points to a church complex of staggering size, its architecture in a style strikingly similar to that of the ancient Hyrule castle, "Here's the Temple of time. The monks who live there develop clairvoyant abilities along with others and all possess a deep loyalty to the royal bloodline. They could direct us to the other maidens, or some ancient magic to aid us or protect us from Yiga clan detection."

"How do you know they're loyal?" You ask.

Zelda goes quiet, looking towards the ground with half-lidded eyes, "I... My father's advisor was the head priest there. He and his students were always there for us. Akko said the temple had been untouched by the empire, so the empire might not have..."

You nod, "I understand. I'm sure they're safe."

Zelda gives you a small smile before going to swiping at runes, enlarging the map of Hyrule again, "Right so, the maidens. With you, Mipha and myself all having some spiritual significance we're operating off the theory that all of them are related to the Seven Sages in some way. If Medli turns out to be one of us than that basically confirms it. Therefore the best thing to do is find the remaining living Sages and test their closest relatives."

"With everything the Empire has done, is there still a chance..." You trail off, not willing to continue that dark thought.

Zelda shakes her head, "I... don't want to consider that possibility. Besides well... I know Grand- I mean Great Witch Maple wouldn't have let herself be caught by the Empire."

"Great Witch?"

"Witches are practitioners of old magic, communing with ancient spirits and creating powerful elixirs," Zelda helpfully elaborates, straightening up as she adjusted her glasses, "Maple was the greatest of them all and the Sage of the Forest, though I'm surprised you don't remember her Link. She used to constantly sneak us candies."

You wrack your brain, trying to remember your distant childhood. Hrmm, you do remember an old lady bent over from age, covered in wrinkles with a crumpled pointed hat perched on her head who would give you candy... and a lecture when you and Zelda got into mischief.

"Yeah... think I remember her lectures more. She has any relatives?"

Zelda nods, "Yes, I do remember her mentioning a daughter who was the same age as our mothers. But Maple... she stayed with me for a bit after our mothers passed until she vanished suddenly. Impa told me later she received a letter and then took off. I don't know where she could be..."

You frown, she could be anywhere in Hyrule by now. Still, keeping an ear out for a witch should be easy, "Who else is there?"

"There's Seres, the Sage of Spirit. She was the youngest Sage, only twelve when I last saw her. Her parents had passed away during the plague, so my mother took her in," Zelda goes quiet for a minute, fond memories coming to the forefront, "She was so quiet and demure... I wish I got to know her more instead of always trying to show her bugs and frogs. After my mother passed she went to live with her grandfather, the great Scholar Sahasrahla in Rauru, studying to become a nun at her father's old church."

"It doesn't sound like she has any relatives," You observe, and Zelda gives a despondent nod.

"I know but maybe... maybe she's the maiden of spirit? There's no reason for her not to be and... I'd like to see her again."

You nod in understanding, before asking "So, who's the last Sage?"

Zelda looks at you confused, "You don't remember Lady Urbosa? She practically took Impa under her wing, and always kept an eye on all us."

Now that she mentions it, you did remember a tall dark-skinned young woman with long red hair laughing heartily as you and Zelda chased each other with sticks, clapping a mortified Impa on the back and telling her to join in on the fun. Goddess, actually comparing Impa to this Urbosa from your memories reminded you that Impa really is only a couple years older than you. Was she really that young when she was made Zelda's bodyguard? "Yeah... yeah I remember her...She was the Sage of Light right?"

Zelda doesn't seem to notice your realization, instead leaning in with a wide, mischievous grin splitting her face, "Did you remember her full name? Urbosa Dragmire?"

You feel your jaw drop, "Wait... what? Does that mean she's-"

Zelda nods excitedly, "Yep, she's Sir Ganondorf's sister. Well... half-sister but I didn't learn about that until I asked Impa recently. And get this, did you know Sir Ganondorf is married and has a daughter?"

Your brow furrows, "He never mentioned it..."

Zelda leans back, her good mood suddenly vanishing, "Yes... actually that's something Impa mentioned. Lady Urbosa never spoke of her brother or mentioned her last name. When he visited the castle, she and Sir Ganondorf never once interacted. She only knew from my mother. She also only knew Sir Ganondorf had a wife and child as my Father had asked how Queen Aveil and their daughter were doing. She recalled finding it strange that my father didn't know the name of Sir Ganondorf's daughter, but knew little else about it as Sir Ganondorf did not speak much about them."

You fold your arms over your chest, deep in thought, "Ganondorf abdicated shortly after our mothers passed away, right? If he had a wife and daughter... why did he go into exile?"

Zelda shakes her head, "I don't know, and I know very little about Gerudo customs. I do know Lady Urbosa returned home shortly after she heard, and that when she found out a lightning storm raged over the castle until she departed. But other than that... nothing. We will need to travel to the Gerudo's home though. If anyone is the Maiden of Light it must be that girl, whoever she is. Lady Urbosa will also surely be overjoyed to see we both survived."

You nod, the Gerudo have had nothing to do with the Empire from what little you know. They'd be excellent allies, and you see no complications other than the harsh realities of travelling through the desert. Which... actually might be a challenge for Mipha. You might need to visit the Temple of Time solely to find magic that won't result in the Zora Princess ending up frying on the hot sand. Still, there was one question lingering in your mind...

"So... if we got the others down then..." You begin to say, "Who's the Maiden of Shadow?"

Zelda sighs, "I... don't know. You ended up being the legendary hero and you have no relatives..."

You scratch the back of your neck, "Actually... I discovered that my mother might have family in Necluda. I was meaning to ask if we could..."

"Of course! Even if it wasn't for the legend I'd have agreed to go there, Link!" Zelda exclaims, "I'd love to help you find your family."

You feel the corners of your mouth tug upwards, "Thank you, Zelda. Is there anything else we'd need to do?"

She nods, "We need to see what's going on with Lon Lon ranch, They were always deeply loyal to my family and undoubtedly are suffering under the boot of the Empire. We must free them, and I remember from when I last visited their ranch there's a Warp Gate out in their field, so we may even be able to bring them here. I would also like to search for Auntie Purah and Professor Robbie. I worry about Auntie and Uncle and wish to see them return home, regardless of the fact their research into Sheikah magic can help us. Professor Robbie, however, is a genius in ancient Sheikah technology and could help create weapons or armour for us to use, or help us destroy anything the Yiga throw at us."

"And Lanayru..."

Zelda gives a dejected sigh, "I... I want to help save Mipha's father and free her people. Mipha and I... discussed it the other night, and she told me that we should not even think about it until we find the other Maidens."

"Yeah," You say with a nod, your tone sombre "Mipha and I talked about it yesterday."

Zelda makes a wordless sound of acknowledgement and you both go quiet, the issues of Lanayru and the potential consequences weighing heavily on your mind.

After a few moments you break the silence, "So well, I guess this covers everything then? We seem to have a pretty good idea of where to go."

"Y-yeah..." Zelda mutters, glancing towards her desk. On it, you could see several painted knights, standing at attention. They must be figures for that game you saw the book of. Zelda was biting her lip, clearly holding back from asking something as crimson eyes darted between them and you behind her glasses.

What do you do?
[] Ask if she has anything to test strategic thinking. (Play the game.)
[] Just hang out with her for a bit.
[] Ask if she wants to go into town.
[] Go spend time with someone else?
-[] Write in who.
[] Write in.

ImmortalsBlade · Dec 17, 2017

Had a bunch of stuff come up so that's why the update took so long. Probably won't take as long with Christmas coming up.

[X] Ask if she has anything to test strategic thinking. (Play the game.)

"So hey, I think we should kinda focus on learning strategy with-" You begin, only for Zelda to immediately shove a box into your chest.

Zelda started making a rather high pitched noise, like air escaping from a balloon as she grabs another larger box and starts pulling out handmade castles and trees, not even stopping to even consider if you would say no.

"So um... what is...?" You begin to ask as Zelda takes out a box of... dice? Why does it need...

Zelda stops, clapping a hand to her mouth as realization dawns on her, "Oh I am so sorry Link! Of course you wouldn't know how to play!" The princess then grabs the Sheikah slate and begins thumbing through it, until she taps something and immediately shoves it into your hand, "Here, this should tell you everything about how to use your army. I gave you the knights cause you know~" Zelda gives you a knowing look, a smug grin on her face. It falters noticeably when it meets your utterly blank look of confusion.

"It's um... under the topic headed knights... I um... copied the lore and rules from the books to um... make it easier..." She mutters, pulling out another box and doing her level best to not meet your eyes.

With a sigh and knowing it'd break Zelda's heart if you refused you begin reading through the rules. Apparently, it was some type of army game? The rules were fairly complex, and your faction had rules for all its units as well. You were kinda glad you were a fast reader, as going through all the information and expecting to immediately play was a bit much to ask for. Still, you are able to parse through it all rather quickly, even reading up on the various factions. Apparently the faction Zelda had forced upon you relied on small groups of elite units and specialists with a unique ability or piece of gear that could greatly affect the battlefield. The faction Zelda was playing seemed to like using more general units and magic users, with a lot of buffs and protective spells. Paya (the only other player in Kakariko village apparently) preferred using an army that consisted of magic users that utilized spirits alongside powerful individual knights, though she wasn't playing with you.

The lore was rather interesting, apparently a mix of Hyrule's myths, culture and histories while changing enough names around to be its own thing. Apparently, the version Zelda had was out of date but it was a bit hard for Kakariko to obtain recent editions. She did have a few new models, and judging by how oddly similar the designs were to Imperial troops you're assuming there was an influence even on this kind of game. You could even see a bit of it in the factions backstories.

After you familiarize yourself with the rules and set up your models you finally get started, both you and Zelda taking turns rolling dice and inching them forward, a handy ruler helping you. While a lot of it was guesswork on your part and moving groups just because you had to move them Zelda was utterly focused, biting her tongue as she apparently was thinking out strategies well in advance. Even before any fighting had started it felt like you were struggling to catch up to a silent, calculating foe.

At least at first...

"Go riders! Crush those knights before they get into our line!" Zelda commands as she moves her forces into position. You raise an eyebrow but think nothing of it as you continue, dealing with a group Zelda had sent to flank you-

"Noooo! Their sacrifices will not be in vain! Go footsoldiers, let us avenge them!"

"Haha, Lord Detheronious once again shows his superior leadership! He will take a large cut from the spoils of our victory! He will return to his wife a true hero!"

"Commander Deiaminet is wounded! Protect him! All for one and one for all!"

"Archers! Unleash a volley to cover their retreat! Mages form a barrier! By the Goddess, we shall not fall today!"

You stare at Zelda, who was practically bouncing with how excited she was. She didn't even notice you had stopped in the middle of your turn. Eventually, she looks up, giving you an impatient frown until she notices you watching her. Her brow knits together as she seems a bit confused until you shake your head and wave a hand, going back to moving the tiny miniatures around.

Zelda continues her narration as you play, weaving a tale of a desperate battle against your faction using lore you really don't get. Certainly, you didn't think any of the characters had names, then again it looks like she had named some of the grunts as well. It doesn't take long for her to crush you horribly, and she bolts upright to point at you with a triumphant grin "Haha! Your forces lay defeated today General Link! Do you surrender?"

"...I guess? Unless there's a rule where you get a chance to win even if all your guys are dead?"

Zelda notably deflates, mumbling out, "W-well no... I um... yeah I won..."

You nod, "Alright, well that was a lot of fun Zelda, didn't realize each model had... quite that much story attached to them."

The princess immediately brightens up, regaining that excited spark, "Oh yeah, there's like books and books of it! Oh oh you got to read them!" She then dives for her bookcase, tearing books out like a squirrel digging for buried nuts. When Zelda turns back to you an entire stack of books is filling her arms which she sets down next to you before grabbing one of them, "Here this is my absolute favourite!! Read it! Read it!"

"Alright alright!" You cry out as you push Zelda back as she shoves it in your face. Taking it from her hands you examine the cover, noting the title of the book is "Hyrule Warriors Tales: The Lady and the hero." You open it to a random chapter, skimming over-

"You shall me accompany young hero!" She told the young man, who seemed to be quite taken aback by her declaration.

"To where?" He asked, shaking his flowing blonde locks from his face.

"To the ancient ruins, for you truly have the strength to brave their trials. I know that lurking within we will find the sacred pendants of the goddess which will help us through the Sorcerer King's magic!" She clasped her hands together, all her heart put into this plea, "Please brave hero, together we may finally bring peace to Hyrule!"

...That was disturbingly familiar.

You flick back, a nagging feeling at the back of your head as a mounting suspicion gathered like a storm at the edge of your awareness. Finally, you find it, and your heart sinks as you read through,

A young man was standing over her, a look of concern and relief on his face as she opened her eyes. Such crystal clear blue eyes met hers, a warm ocean she could disappear forever into. His blonde sideburns flowed like a golden waterfall over his dignified, pointed ears, his hair so perfectly parted to the side she wondered how he managed it in the wilds. Together they formed a golden frame around his gallant features that were still soft with youth. She realized then that he must have been the same age as her, a lad out on a journey as she was.

He was dressed as the forest people were, a green tunic over a white shirt, rings of chain poking out from the hem. Gloved hands brushed away a loose strand of hair from her face, as though he did not realize she was fully conscious yet. His touch was soft, delicate and sent a shiver through her as though his hands were coated in yellow chuchu jelly. A crimson cloak lay draped over his broad shoulders, and she could just make out his well-built frame even through the chain and tunic. He wasn't overly muscular like some of her father's men were but lean and athletic, a survivor to the knights who lived on plenty. A pointed green cap completed the ensemble, hanging limply off his head.

You look up at Zelda who was watching you with hands tightly bound into fists, leaning forward with an expectant look, as though she expected you at any moment to declare what a literary masterpiece this book is.

You, however, could only look back at that description, shock eroding any reaction you could have made, utterly at a loss at what to think.

Zelda... Zelda had dressed you up as the hero from a romance novel. One by the looks of it aimed at young adults and teenagers.

"Uh..." You manage to get out, setting the book down.

"IT'S AMAZING, RIGHT?!" She yells, suddenly getting far too close then you are comfortable with right now.

"Y-yeah... I'm amazed..." You tell her, refusing to look Zelda in the eyes. She doesn't notice though, vacating your personal space with a look of pure joy on her face, her smile the widest you had seen it, "Hey uh... could I skim through the other books real quick?"

"Of course!" Zelda tells you, handing you one. You flip through it quickly, looking through the dialogue. A sour taste enters your mouth as another revelation dawns on you, and you snatch up another book to confirm it.

This entire time... this entire time Zelda has been quoting these books. Deliberately acting out scenes. That's why so many things she said seemed like it was something Zelda rehearsed. She had been, by memorizing these books cover to cover, or scanning them onto her Sheikah Slate to read. She was probably acting out one of the chapters when you caught her with your sword at the inn. You had seen her act herself, you're sure of it, but thinking back was it only when she was truly excited like now or when she was severely emotionally compromised?

You feel your stomach clench as you consider those times, how she always seemed to refer to wanting to be someone else, never herself.

...

Goddess, her behaviour with the elders! She must have just learned then the author(s) of this book series based the hero's appearance on the mythical hero of legend, of who you were an incarnation of. Had she rationalized it away as being that she was on a journey to defeat evil like the heroine of this book series? Was that how Zelda was coping with it and the extreme importance placed upon her, even if she was more important than any book character?

"Oh oh! We should bring in Paya to discuss them as well!" Zelda suddenly announces, "She loves these books as well!"

You can't imagine what Paya must have thought as she saw you approach. You look up at Zelda who was watching you with that wild smile, and you give her a weak grin in response trying to ignore the things you hope you are imagining about her now. Like the way her hands seem to slightly shake, the slightly dishevelled hair, the weird facial tics, the slightly glazed look in her blood red eyes...

You need to get her out of this room, do something that isn't... this. You can't bring it up with her. Calling it out, saying anything really... you'd probably hurt her less if you started kicking her repeatedly in the face. It'd utterly destroy her. It was a small wonder the others seemed to walk on eggshells around her.

"Actually, could use some fresh air. Want to come with?" You ask, and Zelda's expression falls.

"O-oh, um sure? Where do you want to go Link?"

Where should you take Zelda?
[] Walk around the outskirts.
[] Walk to the farms and orchards.
[] Check out the village centre.
[] Write-in

Yes, I had this planned the entire time. Go back and read through.

ImmortalsBlade · Dec 18, 2017

[X] Walk around the outskirts.

"How about the woods? Not far enough to lose sight of the village, but it'd be nice to be back in the woods again," You tell Zelda, and she nods in understanding.

"A-alright! Just let me get changed, alright?" She tells you, and you take it as your cue to leave. Stepping out of her room and closing the door behind you, you take a deep breath and lean back against her doorframe, head held back and eyes closed for a moment before you continue to your room to get changed into more appropriate outdoor clothes.

Dressed you wait for Zelda at the entranceway, and it isn't long before she arrives wearing an outfit very reminiscent of Paya's, except with a woven hat for the sun. You catch the flicker of a frown as Zelda notices you wearing your blue tunic, and not the green one, but it disappears quickly as you both set off.

The sun absolutely was relentless as it glared down on you, but as soon as you entered the woods the temperature dropped to a more pleasant one, a cool breeze sending shivers through the treetops as the two of you began to follow pathways made by the villagers through the ancient moss-covered woods. A silence that sent your gut churning stretched out as you walked through the woods, not from the forest as it was alive with insect and animal calls, but between you and Zelda. Occasionally it'd be broken by Zelda spotting an animal or interesting patch of fungi and she'd stop to explain or take pictures with her Sheikah Slate but other than that... nothing. She was doing something that was her, something she genuinely enjoyed and that made you happy but... it wasn't helping her.

As you continued on Zelda grew more and more silent, ignoring things you would point to quietly (so as not to spook any animals) to look at her Sheikah Slate, and you suspected what she was looking up. Soon the only sounds you were making were sighs, this really wasn't working-

You hear something whimpering.

You hold up a hand which Zelda walks right into, letting out a yelp of surprise and jumping back rubbing her nose. Sadly the whimpering became quiet so you couldn't apologize. Instead, you take off like a flash, moving through the woods with a speed born of years of living in them. You see trails and paths open up before you as you dash between the tree trunks to where you heard the noise. It doesn't take you long to get there, but what you see takes the breath out of your throat. It was a massive dog, with grey fur, pointed ears and a long snout, covered in cuts and scrapes that dyed its fur a dark red in places. Flies were beginning to gather on it, indicating it had been there for awhile if the ribs poking out from its sides told you anything. It was trying to pull its paw free of some snare, probably intended for rabbits by the Sheikah. Looking closely it seemed to be missing an eye, the eyelid scarred over completely.

It turns to look at you, too tired to snarl yets its single fierce eye was fixed on you with an intensity that told you this dog (a male dog by the looks of things) would not go down without a fight.

Slowly you raise up one hand, squatting down to bring yourself to eye-level as you reach into one of your belt pouches. The dog's ears press back against its head as it watches you, before perking up as you pull out a piece of jerky. Slowly, ever so slowly, you approach the injured dog and carefully offer it to him. The dog snatches the meat up, happily wolfing it down. Reaching up with one hand you scratch it behind the ears, whispering gently "Good boy, good boy. Stay calm, stay calm. I'm going to cut you loose okay?"

The dog seems to understand, and even leans in as you scratch his ear as you pull out your knife. It does seem to eye the Sheikah blade cautiously as you reach down and with one swift motion cut the dog's paw free.

"See, not so bad rightWHOA!!" You cry out, as suddenly the dog pounces on you, slamming two massive paws into your chest. Hot breath hit your face as the dog leaned in close and-

"AGRABLAGHADNADHASA!!" Dog slobber! Dog Slobber!

"Link! Where have you-EEP!" Zelda shouts out as she leaps down from a tree near you. She scrambles back, a knife in her hands as she watches you get drenched in dog slobber.

"Hey Zel- Let me sit up boy! Haha! Zelda! I found this guy trapped here! Seems he doesn't have an owner so-"

"Link," Zelda cuts you off, her tone strangely serious, "That's a Cold-Footed Wolf."

"Eh? No he isn't, it's a dog," You say, looking over at her confused. You then reach over to scratch the dog's cheeks, "Aren't you boy? Aren't you?" You coo.

The definitely-a-dog-and-totally-not-a-wolf gives an affirmative bark.

"See? Oh we're going to have to get Mipha to look over you. Yes we are, yes we are!"

Zelda looks like she wants to retort but can only manage to shake her head in disbelief as you begin to wrestle with the dog. He surely must be trained, as he's responding so intelligently to everything you say.

"A-alright... Link can tame wolves in seconds... Okay Zelda... Okay. Not the strangest thing... Okay it kinda is but..." Zelda mutters to herself, shaking her head as she apparently is still trying to come to grips that you are just playing with a really really big dog and not a wolf, "H-have you named it yet?"

"A name... Hmm... What do you say boy? How about...."

What do you name your new ~~wo-~~dog?
[] DD
[] Arn
[] Sif
[] Write-in

You guys picked the one option that let you get this guy early...

ImmortalsBlade · Dec 29, 2017

Created from the earth by dark magic they have plagued Hyrule since ancient times.

Their arrival a portent of a greater evil...

BLIN FAMILY

Bokoblin Moblin Bulblin Hinox

Bokoblin

Description

This common species is a nuisance all over Hyrule. Wielding primitive weaponry they sometimes unify into small tribes to ambush travellers who're far from civilization. While not very clever, they are at least intelligent enough to hunt beasts and grill the meat for food. Though they're typically ferocious carnivores, they actually enjoy fruit as well. In recent years they've been reported to be gathering in larger and larger tribes as attacks have skyrocketed. What could have caused this troubling change in behaviour is currently unknown.

This common species is a nuisance all over Hyrule. They're tougher and have stronger weapons than the red Bokoblins— and are a little more clever, as well. At the very least, they figured out that sharp metal weapons are usually better than poorly sharpened sticks.

The remains of Bokoblins appear in the dark of the night. While they're fragile enough to crumble from a single blow, as long as a skull remains intact, they'll continue to pull themselves back together and go on fighting. Sometimes the body will pick up the wrong skull, but this doesn't seem to be a problem...
Moblin

Description

This heavyweight species of monster can be found all over Hyrule. They're physically strong, their legs alone strong enough to resist the force of a bomb blast. They're much more dangerous than Bokoblins. In fact, Moblins have been known to pick up Bokoblins and throw them as makeshift projectile weapons. Some have been observed donning armour and using metal weapons in recent years, but where they are getting them and who taught the Moblins how to use them remains a mystery.
Bulblin

Description

The intelligent if physically weaker cousins of the Bokoblin race this cowardly species preys on outlying villages throughout Hyrule. Amassing into large bandit tribes they raid villages for supplies and hostages. However, they lack the courage and equipment to fight off serious resistance and will rout easily when faced with it. Some Bulblin tribes have been known to negotiate with villages, demanding tribute in exchange for "protection" from other monsters.
Hinox

Description

One of the largest monsters to make its home in Hyrule, the Hinox lives primarily in forested areas. A keen awareness of your surroundings is paramount when facing one, as Hinox are known for tearing entire trees from the ground and using them as weapons. A deft hand can steal weapons off the necklaces they wear. Many Hinox's have been reported to be migrating somewhere in recent years, where too no one knows...

The mere remains of what was once a giant monster known as a Hinox. These skeletal beasts appear at nighttime. Much like their living counterparts, the Stalnox will tear entire trees from the ground to use as weapons. Furthermore, even if it appears defeated at first, it will keep coming back for more as long as its eye is left intact.

CHUCHU FAMILY

Chuchu Electric Chuchu Fire Chuchu Ice Chuchu

Chuchu

Description

This low-level, gel-based monster can be found all over Hyrule. It tends to spring its attacks on unsuspecting prey from the ground or from trees. Its strength varies by size, and the type of jelly it drops varies depending on whether the Chuchu was heated up, cooled down, or shocked. Due to the value of its gel and lack of brains Hylian's have begun to farm them, creating questions among scholars if they're really a monster or are a natural creature.
Electric Chuchu

Description

This low-level gel monster is engulfed in electricity. Its strength varies depending on its size. It tends to explode if attacked from close range, so the use of spears, arrows, and other ranged weapons is advised. Due to its dangerous nature, this type of Chuchu is not farmed.
Fire Chuchu

Description

This low-level gel monster is engulfed in flames. Its strength varies depending on its size. It tends to explode if attacked from close range, so the use of spears, arrows, and other ranged weapons is advised. Due to its dangerous nature, this type of Chuchu is not farmed.
Ice Chuchu

Description

This low-level gel monster is engulfed in freezing-cold air. Its strength varies depending on its size. It tends to explode if attacked from close range, so the use of spears, arrows, and other ranged weapons is advised. Due to its dangerous nature, this type of Chuchu is not farmed.

ALFOS FAMILY

Lizalfos

Lizalfos

Description

These quick-witted, lizard-like monsters can be found all over Hyrule. They're a sly species that lurks underwater or uses camouflage to blend in with the environment to launch ambushes. Moreover, they never sleep. They're meat eaters by nature but will enjoy the occasional insect or two. Highly organized and intelligent Lizalfos have been known to form great armies and besiege Hyrule's lands, only being driven back at great cost. Rumours are Lizalfos scouts have often been seen near villages and cities doing little more than observing before disappearing, spreading fears another army may be gathering in the dark corners of Hyrule.

The remains of Lizalfos appear in the dark of the night. They're as sly as ever, even now that they're just some bones stacked atop each other. However, their bodies are much more fragile, and a single solid hit can reduce them to pieces. If a skull remains intact, they will pull themselves back up and continue to fight. They've been known to grab the wrong skull at times, but they never seem to mind...

Subject to expansion as more monsters are encountered.

ImmortalsBlade · Dec 29, 2017

Ancient beings who once protected the sacred lands, long thought gone...

Will Hyrule disappear as they did?

MYTHICAL CREATURES

Fairy Great Fairy Korok Picori Keaton Blupee

Fairy

Description

Small beings that at a distance resembles a ball of light with gossamer wings. It's easily mistaken for a firefly at first, but it glows in the daylight as well as night. Upon closer inspection, they're revealed to be small humanoids, most commonly resembling a young woman. Sometimes they have antenna and wands, sometimes they don't. Some prefer fancy clothes while others do not. Whether this wide diversity is a product of different subspecies or shapeshifting abilities remains unknown. What is known is that fairy's often possessed powerful healing abilities that can even bring someone back from the brink of death.

Fairies are believed to be attracted to holy sites and figures and to have some connection to the gods. While myths claim that fairies are very shy beings, many believe that a lack of faith has lead to their disappearance from the world. The only confirmed sighting of a fairy presence was by Princess Zelda, which many believe confirms this theory.
Great Fairy

Description

Mysterious beings of unimaginable power, the only hint of their presence is the traces of phenomenal magical power near long abandoned fountains and shrines along with whispered tellings in the old myths. Where they came from, who they were and what did they desire remains a mystery to this day, though old folktales that they were protectors of villages and granters of magic suggest they were altruistic if mischevious. While long since gone from this world some scholars believe that the limitless wells of power at the Sacred Shrines of Knowledge, Courage and Power are not from the gods but from Great Fairies residing within them, but if there are any their lairs remain hidden and sealed.
Korok

Description

Originally believed to be the friendly spirits of children who got lost in Hyrule's many forests who would guide children away from certain doom many believed them to be fairy tales. The Legendary Hero Link and Princess Zelda have confirmed they are simply friendly, playful spirits with a very childish disposition. They love to play games, most popular being hide and seek. If found the Korok will happily divulge any information it may know before disappearing, though they have very short attention spans so it may be a bit unreliable. It remains to be confirmed however if the Koroks home is truly the strange and terrifying Lost Woods.
Picori

Description

A race of beings popularized through many fairy tales. They originally were said to only be able to be seen by well-behaved children, though recent stories have evolved to include those of pure heart. Resembling anthropomorphic mice these diminutive creatures are said to leave treasures in tall grass and pots for Hylians to find. While always well-known through children's books they've exploded in popularity in recent years thanks to released documents revealing that Princess Zelda was obsessed with them. It is imperative that the recent popularity is documented by the still-living Princess. For scientific purposes, she's an adult now and is not still totally obsessed with them. Merchandise must also be purchased as soon as possible, the fate of Hyrule depends on it.
Keaton

Description

A fictional magical fox creature that was popular in many old children's tales, especially among the Sheikah. While originally just mischevious in recent years they've been villified into a thief monster resembling an anthropomorphic fox. This coincidentally coincides with rumours of fox-like creatures appearing around Hyrule. Perhaps there is truth to the old Sheikah myths, and the Keatons are not the monsters people claim they are. However, it would take a Princess and her trusty knight who better help her with this to dispell this myth.
Blupee

Description

They may look like mere rabbits at a fleeting glance, but these strange and aptly named creatures glow with a mysterious blue light. While the details of their origins are entirely unknown, there is one thing we do know: these peculiar little things have a penchant for collecting rupees.

GODS AND THE ANCIENTS

Golden Goddesses White Goddess Hylia Fierce Deity

Golden Goddesses

Description

This trio of ancient deities are the three creator Goddesses of many cultures myths. Nayru, the Goddess of Wisdom. Din, the Goddess of Power and Farore, the Goddess of Courage. While there are many sacred sites devoted to the Goddesses worship of them has declined over time in favour of The White Goddess Hylia and the Fierce Deity. As Sheikah are primarily worshippers of Hylia the increasing prominence of the Winged Goddess in religious affairs lead to much friction among those cultures who primarily worshipped one or all of the Golden Goddesses and the Sheikah. Because of the wide disparity in depictions, it is hard to determine what was the original myths of the Golden Goddesses, a truth that may likely only be held within the temple of time.
White Goddess Hylia

Description

Known as both the White Goddess and the Winged Goddess, Hylia is one of the most prominently worshipped deities in Hyrule. Said to be the ancient protector of Hyrule Hylia is involved throughout every culture's mythology, and has a close association with Nayru. She is also the chief deity of the Sheikah, who say she is the goddess who created their race. While worship of her remains strong among the Sheikah her worship has started to decline in recent years in other cultures in favour of the Fierce Deity.
No Picture Currently Available
????; The Fierce Diety

Description

A mysterious entity said to be a mortal who fought until he became a god, this relatively obscure figure has exploded in popularity in recent years. Likely encouraged by the influence of the Rozsa Empire. While ancient Sheikah manuscripts speak of an unnamed dark god who slew a great evil this relative obscurity is not shared by other cultures. Many in fact seem to claim Hylia is the lover of this god, something never mentioned in far more ancient Sheikah texts, and seems to minimize the Goddess's role. Currently how the Rozsa Empire views this God is unknown. More detail will need to be gathered by the author, Princess Zelda Saria Ilia Hyrule.

ImmortalsBlade · Jan 11, 2018

Sorry for taking awhile, life keeps getting in the way.

[X] Sif

"...Sif?" You ask, and your new friend gives a happy bark of affirmation.

You reach over to scratch Sif behind the ears, the rapid wagging of his bushy tail telling you he quite enjoyed it "Well Sif it is, heh," You give a small laugh as Sif lunges forward and gives a few slobbering licks of your face, as you half-heartedly try to push him off.

Zelda carefully walks up beside you, still rather cautious around Sif, "So what now? Even if you have him under control those injuries are still pretty bad, we'll need to take Sif to Mipha."

"You wouldn't happen to know where Mipha is, would you? I haven't seen her since the morning," You ask, finally pushing Sif off you.

"Yes, Mipha told me she might visit the river to catch lunch, we should check there first."

You nod, standing up. The two of you then head off, Sif following just behind you, the going slow with how he was limping. You felt bad about forcing him to walk but he'll be healed up when you get to Mipha.

Zelda leads you on a circuitous route back to the village and the river Mipha was at, but you do get there relatively quickly. Sure enough, Mipha was there, sitting on a stone next to the riverbed as water slowly dripped off her. She must have just gotten out of the river, judging by the fish held in her hands. Great chunks had been bitten off from its side, and you watch as she opens her mouth wide and sinks her fangs into it and rips off a strip of flesh that she happily chews, rivulets of crimson blood dribbling down her chin. She hadn't seemed to have noticed the three of you yet, and you raise your hand to call out to her when Sif lets out a great bark and hobbles over to her.

Mipha looks over to Sif, confusion on her face before she see's your new friend. Her eyes go wide and she lets out a loud "EEP" when she notices just how close he was for a rather injured canine and falls backwards into the river with a tremendous splash.

You and Zelda both grimace before running over to check if Mipha is alright. Thankfully her head emerges from the water, a strangely unperturbed frog perched on top of it as she looks up at the two of you first with caution then confusion when she see's who it was at the edge of the river, "Link? Zelda? Wha-"

"Sorry, didn't expect my new dog to run out to you like that," You apologetically tell her. Mipha only looks more confused, and she looks over to Zelda, who shakes her head.

"It's tame, somehow. I think it was owned by someone but escaped. Link... Link somehow got it to listen to him and now... now we have a pet wo-canine," Zelda explains, and Mipha gives a nod of understanding that is betrayed by the expression of disbelief on her face.

You then interject, getting to what's important, "Sif's badly injured, can you heal him? I'll be eternally in your debt Mipha!"

"O-okay... um yes. Could you help me out?" She asks, shaking her head to dislodge the frog from its perch, who gives an angry croak before swimming away.

You offer a hand which Mipha takes, and you pull her from the water. Mipha takes a moment to just stare at Sif before shaking her head and getting to work, only occasionally interrupted as Sif tries to lick her face.

It only takes a few moments before after a quick bath Sif was right as rain, his grey fur and angular features now clear and proudly displayed after he drenches you all with a shake of his body. Strangely though, one scar had not healed. When you ask Mipha only shakes her head, "I'd love to give him back his eye but the injuries too old, he must have had it since he was a puppy. I'm beginning to believe as well he was owned by someone, I'm not sure at that age in the wild to have an injury like that would be survivable. But I'm not a wildlife scholar."

"I could make an eyepatch!" Zelda chimes in, "He'll look rather good in it, I think."

"Then we better head to the manor, you don't think Impa would mind bringing in a dog, would she?"

Zelda suddenly looks nervous, biting her lower lip as she rocks back and forth on the balls of her feet, "Uhm... I'm not sure. I mean... I don't want to leave him outside but... I'll talk to her, okay?"

You nod, "Thank you Zelda, that means a lot."

Now, how would the others react?

++++

"HEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE?!" Paya shrieks as Sif pounces on her, licking her face with mad abandon as his tail wags a mile a minute. She seemed to have completely frozen up, arms held closely up to her chest as her hands twisted into some claw gesture.

"SIF! NO! You can't jump on every person you meet!" You yell, and Sif reluctantly peels himself off and pads over to you, head held low. You reach down to scratch his ear, "It's alright, just wait until she lets you, okay boy?"

Paya's head jerkily turns to you, eyes wide in stark confusion as Zelda immediately interjects, "Link tamed it! We uh... now own it I guess? He's called Sif."

Paya's expression immediately shifts to one of amazement, admiration and disbelief, which felt odd to you as it wasn't like owning a dog was a big thing. You always wanted a dog though just could never afford it...

Paya suddenly lets out a surprised "EEP!" As two white heads of hair push past her and immediately rush to Sif, burying themselves into his fur.

"PUPPY!!" Cottla and Koko exclaim as they immediately shower attention onto Sif with all the enthusiasm two small girls can muster.

You laugh, shaking your head as Sif enjoys every bit of attention thrown on him. To go from being out in the wild to being adored must be a pretty big change for him, yet your new dog had adapted extremely quickly. It's nice that things had turned out so well-

Impa was standing behind the two girls.

No one moved as every eye fell on the older Sheikah woman who was intently looking down at Sif. You could hear your heart beating in your chest as the Sheikah woman regarded your new dog for a moment before reaching into a pouch.

You have half a mind to call out to her stop, to rush forward and protect Sif when you see Impa pull out a piece of Jerky and give it to Sif, who happily snatches it up before looking up at Impa with a pleading expression for more, tongue lolling out the side of his mouth.

Impa then looks at you, her expression stoic as she says "I'm not letting him out at night."

She then turns and walks into the manor, leaving all of you to breathe out a sigh of relief.

++++

Sif ends up sleeping in your room that night, a fresh eyepatch on his head. It was a bit warm in the summer so you ended up having to push him off the bed and get him to sleep on some old blankets in the corner but as someone who always wanted a dog but could never afford one you couldn't be happier.

You hope Epona and Sif will get along.

++++

After extracting yourself from under Sif in the morning after Zelda wakes you up and getting dressed and washed up you head over to the kitchen to grab breakfast. To your surprise, there wasn't much left to eat, and you end up having to settle on some bread softened in milk. Not sure how shopping is handled here you quickly finish up and get up to find something to do today when Zelda, Paya and Mipha walk in, Paya and Zelda's hair still wet from getting washed up. They were leading in a still half-asleep Cottla and Koko. As Mipha and Paya get them seated for breakfast Zelda walks up and quietly tells you "Hey Link, Impa would like you to help with buying food, do you mind heading over to her room while we watch Cottla and Koko?"

"Sure?"

"Thank you Link," She says, telling you which room to go to before disappearing into the kitchen.

So you end up making your way to where Zelda had told you to go, just catching sight of Prince Sidon heading out the door whistling a jolly tune as he made his way to meet up with the guards. Reaching the room you reach out to knock on the door when before you even brush the wooden door with your knuckles a voice calls out from inside, "Come in Link."

Dropping your hand you slide open the door and step in, only to freeze as you got a sight of what was inside of it.

The room was much like yours, including an armour and weapon stand upon which sat what you could only assume was Impa's armour, along with her Naginata. Yet decorated on the walls were trophies and symbols of her previous rank. Most noticeably were three sets of massive horns belonging to beasts much larger than any oxen, the largest having tufts of golden fur at its base, while the other two seemed to come from a silver beast. You knew who they once belonged too, even if you had any read about them. Those were Lynel horns. Yet to have killed silvers, nevermind a mythical Gold Lynel... those things could devastate armies as their weakest type, and Impa had slain the strongest of them! A beast so powerful it could regenerate even the most grievous of wounds in seconds! Considering her age, she must have been a young girl when she had did it as well! That was incredible, and you strongly suspect they weren't even the worst monster she had slain, as you notice horns and claws belonging to beasts you could not identify.

The rest of the room was oddly spartan, and in fact rather similar to Paya's. There was a place where she probably prayed or meditated, a small bed that had been carefully made and a writing desk, which had a small mirror set on it. Around the table were pictures hung on the wall that looked like they had come from the Sheikah slate, yet how they had been made physical and placed on the wall you didn't know. You notice the bespectacled woman who you had seen in Paya's pictures who you presume is Purah sitting next to a small girl with a fierce expression. Very familiar tattoo's graced her face, and in her hands was a much smaller Naginata then the one Impa now wielded. On the Purah's lap was an adorable looking girl with white hair who was shyly trying to hide her face. Another had her with a small girl, barely five years old. She had a wide smile and was dressed in an ornate dress yet you could still see the familiar ruby eyes and blonde hair. Next to the young Zelda was a boy with blonde hair and blue eyes, staring stoically forward as though he had no idea what was happening.

...Wow, did you really used to wear that kind of expensive looking clothes?

Another picture had Impa standing next to Purah. Yet there was two other woman with them. One looked like a carbon copy of Zelda, except significantly taller. The only difference was a maturity Zelda didn't have, along with her face being decorated with blue Sheikah tattoo's and her hair as white as the other two Sheikah beside her. She was wearing a set of ornate robes of Sheikah design, of such complexity you wonder how she possibly moved in them. Intricate designs were sown into them yet she was strangely bereft of jewellery, save a tiara of obvious Hylian design. That was the late Queen Tetra, Zelda's mother. Which would make the woman next to her...

Something catches in your throat.

It was a Hylian woman in ornate clothes signifying that she was of Hylian nobility. Yet like the Queen she didn't seem to be wearing a gaudy amount of jewelry. She was a tall woman, yet she seemed to radiate a kindness that made your heart ache. Blue eyes peered out from the picture, ones you remember so clearly and so much resemble your own.

You look away, and only then realize that a woman had been sitting silently at the desk, carefully fixing her hair as she looked in a mirror. You'd been so caught up in the pictures you completely missed her. She was wearing clothes much like Zelda and Paya had, opting for a skirt rather then the pants Paya so often wore. Her hair, while significantly longer then Paya's, was carefully arranged in a similar style and now that she was satisfied with it she carefully pulled out a necklace of remarkable quality, made of silver and jade that was delicately arranged to resemble the swirling designs you saw painted on the walls, all leading to a larger piece designed to look like a Sheikah eye that she afixed around her neck. She stood up, and you were transfixed by the presence she seemed to command, as though she exuded a power that drew the eye to her as soon as she entered a room. Then she turned to look at you, crimson eyes regarding you with a calculating expression. Yet by her face and familiar tattoo's you immediately realized who this was.

"I thank you for coming to assist me Link, it'll go much faster with two sets of hands and..." Impa sighs, and you see for a moment a flicker of sadness cross her face, "And sadly Lady Zelda and Paya are not able to help."

It takes you a second to realize this was Impa wearing casual clothes, not the outfit she wore normally. It was shocking, to say the least at what a change a different set of clothes could do to someone, to the point you didn't even recognize her!

A single white eyebrow moves up a millimetre as you realize you're still staring at her, "Is something the matter? You're staring at me. Do I still have some of breakfast around my mouth? Something caught in my teeth?"

What do you say?
[] Write-in

ImmortalsBlade · Jan 19, 2018

Armies clash in the sacred lands, turning the rivers red with blood...

Will nothing be left of the old world?

THE LOST FORCES OF THE KINGDOM OF HYRULE

Hyrule Kingdom Hyrulean Militia Hyrulean Army Hyrulean Marines and Sailors Knights of Hyrule Royal Guard

Hyrule Kingdom

Description

The Kingdom of Hyrule, the sacred land, is the oldest known kingdom to have ever existed prior to its conquest by the Rozsa Empire, older even than the Republic of Labrynna and the City State of Horon, found in the land of Holodrum. While technically an empire, the independence traditionally granted to its provinces, vassal states and territories along with the negative connotations associated with empires, tradition and being a major holy region ensured that the term was never applied to Hyrule.

Hyrule is as stated a monarchy very similar to neighbouring nations, with the royal family of Hyrule ruling since its founding. Traditionally, it is normally headed by the King of Hyrule with the Queen of Hyrule serving as the religious head, taking on the title of the "Goddess Sage." However, unlike many neighbouring nations direct female relatives of the King of Hyrule (normally the Princess of Hyrule) may become the head of state, as only members of the direct royal line may inherit the throne. Unfortunately, many of these descendants of the author, Princess Zelda Saria Ilia Hyrule, were not recognized as Queen Regnant until much later in their rule.

Tradition dictates, in fact, that the female head of state cannot begin the process to be officially recognized as Queen Regnant until they have come of age, even if they essentially fulfill the same role. A surprising tradition though is that the Royal Family of Hyrule is allowed to marry those of common descent or accept children born of a union between a commoner and a member of the royal family as the heir, even if it proves to be scandalous at the time. While direct historical accounts are lacking it is theorized this was established during more tumultuous times to prevent foreign influence. While rarely exercised by past kings it has been surprisingly common amongst past Queens and Princesses, these men often from a wide variety of backgrounds such as blacksmiths, ranch hands, farmers, sailors, engineers and knights. Very little is often known about these men in history and how they held the attention of a member of the royal family, the actual records and portraits of them having never been witnessed by the author, and may be lost forever now. The best-known example of a female commoner being married by the King of Hyrule and even being granted a royal title is Queen Tetra Hyrule, mother of Princess Zelda Saria Ilia Hyrule.

From Hyrule Castle the Royal Family ruled Hyrule and its provinces and territories; Central Hyrule, Tabantha, Hebra, Gerudo, Ordon, Faron, Necluda, Lanayru, Eldin, Akkala and the Great Sea Territories. They did so through a series of various noble houses, much like other nations. Hyrule did have a significant amount of social mobility, and democratically elected officials are often present in towns that decided to have them. The great amount of independence present to even small villages, along with the nations inside Hyrule such as the Goron Patriarchy, Rito Tribes, Gerudo Tribes, Ordon Duchy and Zora Kingdom is often considered strange by neighbouring nations, who have sometimes accused Hyrule of using its elite military to suppress internal disputes.

This could not be further from the truth, as while Hyrule maintained an elite and well-trained army Hyrule never believed in using it in an offensive role, even if at times it was forced too. Mostly, the military was used to protect settlements and travellers from monsters who have plagued Hyrule since ancient times in great numbers. This lead to Hyrule's military being very small for Hyrule's massive size but consisting of well-equipped and highly skilled soldiers. Hyrule also allowed territories under its stewardship to maintain its own militaries, which allowed protection against increasingly more aggressive monsters and allowed Hyrule's diverse cultures to not feel occupied.

Hyrule maintained much of their economic success thanks to their large agrarian economy, the volcanic soil, the vast fields of central Hyrule and mild climate in the main agricultural centres of Hyrule coupled with magical assistance has lead to many in Hyrule enjoying a high standard of living. High education standards lead to many skilled craftsmen, along with friendly relations with the Goron leading to safe and efficient mining of vast deposits of mineral wealth lead to a great many works of art and beautiful buildings, Lanayru itself thanks to the Zora's ingenuity becoming a work of art that drew visitors from across Hyrule. Technological innovations working in tandem with magical means ensured a great interconnected network of industries throughout Hyrule, supporting both luxury trade and the trade in necessary goods and services. However trade outside Hyrule was limited outside of ship trade, due to Hyrule being segregated from neighbouring nations by vast monster-infested mountain ranges, giving many the impression Hyrule was isolationist rather than limited by terrain features.

Hyruleans are made up of many races, promoting a vast and varied culture. The majority race are Hylians, with the largest minority race being Humans. Zora, Gorons, Gerudo, Sheikah and Rito make up the rest of Hyrule's people, but due to prefering living in their specific provinces, external factors or due to biological reasons have much smaller populations then Hylians and Humans. Due to this and the vast array of different cultures allowed to maintain their identities, it is next to impossible to really claim one culture as distinctly Hyrulean, as even the closest cities are often vastly different compared to the culture of Castle Town. More details on the various races will be covered in another article.

Hyruleans primarily worship Hylia, the protector deity of Hyrule along with the Golden Goddesses. However, there has been much-heated debate on how much Hylia has been honoured. The Great Plateau and Temple of Time are world renowned as the holiest sites in the world, not just due to their significance to Hyruleans as the birthplace of Hyrule but to their importance to the worship of Hylia and the Golden Goddesses. Worship of the Goddesses varies greatly amongst every province, with some cultures (notably the Zora) strongly honouring one specific diety compared to the others.

All of these factors lead to Hyrule being viewed as a mythical, sacred land by other countries. But as can be seen, it is Hyrule's people and their ingenuity and perseverance that lead to its success prior to its conquest.
Hyrulean Militia

Description

Consisting of locally trained forces this group is hired by lords and officials. The main army helpfully provides arms, allowing them to be well equipped for any danger. They are most often used as guards for towns and cities, keeping the streets safe from thieves and thugs, and dealing with any monsters that approach. Because their training is reliant on local resources their skill often varies greatly. They are usually equipped with basic armour, a brigandine or chainmail with a helmet. A notable problem with the Hyrulean Militia other then the wide disparity in skill and lack of formal training was that many were only Militia part-time, meaning gear was often ill-maintained.
Hyrulean Army

Description

The Soldiers of Hyrule make up the vast majority of Hyrule's military strength. Armed with excellent quality gear and plate armour they are well disciplined, well trained and experienced from constant conflicts with monsters. Supported by cavalry, well-trained Mages, a skilled engineering and medical corps, cannons and artillery they prove devastating on the battlefield. However, they lack great numbers for the size of Hyrule meaning they are often stretched thin, and when the monsters increased in numbers could not keep up.
Hyrulean Marines and Sailors

Description

The men who man Hyrule's great fleet, they were whipped into an elite fighting force by Grand Admiral Linebeck a few years before the birth of Princess Zelda Saria Ilia Hyrule. Excellent seafarers all, they defend Hyrule's coasts and Island communities with skill and efficiency. Their armour is usually light due to the environment they fight in, but they are just as well armed as Hyrule's soldiers. The ships they sail on are marvels of modern technology, some hulls clad in metal and using turrets instead of cannons. Some don't even use sails! What happened to the Navy after the conquest of Hyrule is currently unknown.
Knights of Hyrule

Description

The Hyrulean knights are elite soldiers tasked specifically with defending Hyrule from the greatest of threats. Usually taken from the ranks of nobility some are often commoners who have demonstrated great skill in combat and thus recieve the honour of joining the knight's prestigious ranks. Given powerful arms and armour they often supported the main Hyrulean army or attacked as shock troops deployed ahead of the main force, the elites among them often armed with elemental weapons, given to them by the royal family. Often they were tasked with slaying a great monster or break a horde of monsters under their horses thundering hooves. Their great skill, courage and chivalry have made them a popular subject in Hyrule's fiction and they are just so cool.

Father said I couldn't join but Link could well I guess he's a knight now but they're so amazing. They worked alongside the Sheikah to just destroy massive monsters, and they all knew some magic which made them superhuman, it was the only way they could use their weapons after all! And when they really showed they were incredible they joined the royal knights! And there are so many good books about them! Oh, Paya and I could go on about how courageous and gallant they were, striding into battle with their gleaming armour one day and helping travellers lost in the woods the next. How they were champions of the people as much as they were my family. It's a good thing Link didn't look closely at Paya's shelf and saw it was filled with all our knight books, oh it'd have been so embarrassing! Luckily I distracted him with my totally awesome collection of novels, he never suspected a thing! Hee, I bet it inspired him to really act even more like Sir Raven! Anyone would after reading them, and he was so into them! Paya was absolutely thrilled when I told her how much he liked them! A shame he didn't want to talk about it, but he obviously needed time to truly process their greatness.
Royal Guard

Description

They're. Just. So. AWESOME. You can't even join the royal guards unless you slay a great monster like a Hinox! People used to think all they did was stand around in ceremonial armour or those fancy uniforms, but they actually were deployed to defeat the greatest of monsters! Impa was only captain for a short while, but under her command they slew countless monsters, giving respite to many villages in between blood moons. Their weapons and armour, while ornate in design were some of the greatest designed weapons and armour in all of Hyrule! And the elite among these elites? Had their very own specially crafted gear, enchanted to such an extent they could destroy armies by themselves! Of course, I never expected Impa actually being able to throw out that fire dragon spell at Link! Impa may have been the best, but just imagine what they could do! I wonder what Lieutenant Alfonzo could... Actually thinking about it makes me sad. I should think about the future. I must see if I can get a tailor in castle town to replicate one of the uniforms, Link would look perfect in one of those! The blue tunic already fits so well on him! Oh if we could find one of the elemental swords, it may not be royal gear but oh it'd look so cool! So cool Paya and I didn't get any sleep when we talked about it! Oh, we should bring it up with Mipha, I bet she'd be on board with it!

ROZSA IMPERIUM (EMPIRE OF THE ROSE)

Rozsa Empire

Rozsa Empire

Description

The Rozsa Empire is the tyrannical empire that conquered Hyrule when it was at its weakest solely out of greed. It's ruled by an Emperor, and the Nemesis is his son. It's terrible and uses slaves. The author doesn't know much more about it.

Subject to change.

ImmortalsBlade · Jan 29, 2018

[X]No, nothing that's your fault. Some of the pictures... I just wasn't expecting to see my mother again. It has me a little out of sorts, sorry.
-[X]Combine that with the new outfit and I didn't recognize you for a second.

Impa's stoic features break as you finish saying that, her expression becoming pained and sorrowful, "I... M-my apologies, I'll remove the picture-" She says with a slight hitch to her voice, it seemed so out of character for someone like Impa, and you're struck by how much she resembles Paya in this instant. As if she was Paya's sister rather then her aunt. Of course, you remind yourself, she was only two years older then Paya so not much of a shock at all.

You shake your head, "No no like I said it's alright, just caught me off guard," You tell her, and Impa visibly relaxes, returning to her stoic demeanour so quickly it was like a switch had been pulled.

"Very well," Impa says, "Shall we head out?"

++++

As the two of you headed into the village towards the general store you kept an eye out on how the other villagers reacted to her walking with you. From what you could gather Impa walking out to get food wasn't a rare occurrence with how few seemed to spare a lingering glance towards the two of you. Those that did though gave you the oddest look, a look of sympathy along with tired resignation that you couldn't quite place the reason too.

Impa herself walked through the village with confidence, though even in the centre of her village Impa's trained eyes scanned every shadow for a threat. No one could mistake her for anything but a warrior out on patrol, each movement she made seemed more like a predator stalking amongst the trees then a young woman who dressed up to go to the market, even the act of brushing her hair out of her eyes when the wind picked up a bit seemed to look more like she was reaching for one of the needles stuck into the bun under her rice hat than a normal reaction. And though you avoided staring at her despite at how much her appearance had been changed you did catch sight of the handle of a Sheikah knife hidden under her overcoat. Impa really was the type of person who seemed like they weren't comfortable unless there was a weapon within arms reach.

Still, you can't help but notice the similarities and differences between Impa and her niece and charge. Her hair was as white as Paya's, resembling a cascade of fresh snow in the sun on a cold winter day, a comparison certainly helped by her cool demeanour. Yet unlike her niece, she wore her hair nearly as long as Zelda's with it flowing well past her waist down to her knees. In fact, she seemed to have it incredibly similar to Zelda, which gave you a rather strong suspicion that it was Impa, not Paya, who helped Zelda with her hair when Zelda bothered to brush it. Unlike her charges Impa's skin was tanned, clearly showing how much she spent outside even if Zelda no longer looked like she had never stepped outside in her life thanks to your constant travels. Physically they also bore a resemblance in how athletic they looked, even if Impa was closer to your height then Zelda. A sharp contrast to her niece, who was as delicate as a frozen rose. Like Zelda as well, Impa's arms were like thick tree trunks but while in Zelda's case that was because Zelda was an archer who specialized in firing massive war-bows Impa lacked the trace scars on the inside of her arm that Zelda had from the bowstring hitting her. You can only assume Impa's Naginata was in fact MUCH heavier then it looked, which actually made you pause when you considered how easily she swung around and how she had sparred with you. She must have really been taking it easy on you!

Comparing to Paya, you were surprised actually paying attention how closely they resembled each other even with Impa's far more athletic build. They could easily pass as sisters with how closely their faces resembled each other, with the main differences being in how they carried themselves. Impa's stern expression and constantly standing on edge made her look far older than she actually was, while Paya's shyness was quite disarming to anyone who approached her. It's when they were contemplative that the two seemed so alike, or in that moment of vulnerability when you had mentioned your mother. If you would have to compare the two using metaphor Impa resembled a Cold-footed Wolf, the wolf subspecies you had read about who made the Hebra mountains its home. Its snow white fur was beautiful beyond compare with travellers remarking how so quickly they were enchanted when they spotted one stalking in the treelines, and how deadly they turned out to be in an instant. Paya meanwhile resembled a Snowcoat fox, skittish and rarely seen they were seemingly totally harmless, the adorable counterpart to the wolves serene beauty. Yet when travellers saw them in action, they were left as breathless as they were watching the wolf.

You quickly look over to watch the activity around the village when you notice Impa's eyes dart over to you and a slightly quizzical expression form on her face before her expression returns to its neutral sternness. Okay, you had to finally admit to yourself you had been appreciating Impa's presence as a young man rather than as someone united with an old childhood acquaintance. As much as you hated to admit it, as they were your first friends in a long time and they were deeply suffering, it was pleasant spending time with all the girls. You weren't a flirt (as weak as that sounded in your head) just someone who may have spent sometime around the tavern bards when you went to the village, the small musician inside of you settling on metaphor rather than admitting your eyes were occasionally wandering when you spent time with them. Still, your friendship and concern for their well-being always came first especially in such a dangerous lifestyle, only a complete creep would let it be otherwise. You weren't the type of person who leads people on and tried to keep to things with a clear heart.

"I did not expect you to be as good with animals as you are Link," Impa suddenly brings up, which makes you look over at her with a confused expression on your face. Seeing this she clarified, "How you handle the horses and your new pet, you certainly rival even Paya."

"Huh...?" Paya was good with animals? But you saw her at the farm...

"Did you not notice how Sif immediately leapt to her?" Impa asks, raising an eyebrow.

"I thought that was just Sif being friendly, the other dogs act the same way?"

"And Chipmunks, foxes, birds... Even a deer when she was younger," Impa explains, clearly reminiscing with a slight smile, "She does not get out enough for more people to notice, but animals practically flock to her."

"That... that can't just be her timid nature...." You say, and Impa gives a small nod.

"Yes, she must have some measure of spiritual power and it is manifesting in that way. Yet as you noticed she has no wish to take it up..." Impa says, her expression becoming slightly pained.

You look forward, feeling your pace slow as you considered it. Yeah, you directly heard Paya reject the offer to be taught how to use the Sheikah's magic. You knew the thing with her duties was just an excuse she told herself as it seemed she just accepted everyone else's duty, but now that you think about it why didn't Impa force her out to learn it? You had a good suspicion Impa didn't want to push Zelda despite Zelda's utterly incredible power due to her issues but what about Paya? Then again, had you not noticed Paya's self-destructive way of thinking? Impa had undoubtedly noticed as well, and while you were simply a recent friend to Impa Paya was practically a sister and her actual niece.

"I'm sure she'll find the confidence to learn it someday, I believe in her," You offer, and Impa gives a small smile.

"I am glad that you all became such good friends, Purah will undoubtedly be overjoyed to hear about it," She then sighs, and you just catch her muttering, "If only she could go with them..."

Before you could ask Impa notices you had walked all the way to the general store, and immediately makes a beeline for it.

You follow behind her into the building. Trissa is there and looks up with a smile that strangely falters when she see's who had entered, "Ah... Lady Impa. Here to shop..."

Impa nods, "Yes, and to educate Master Link about how our village works."

"Ah good... good. I'll be over here if you need me..." Trissa then sighs, grabs a book and sits down behind the counter and begins reading, something that seems awfully surprising to you compared to how she was before. Why would any shopkeeper be completely disinterested in how- Did she just flash you a sympathetic look? What's going on?

"So uh... what's going on?" You ask, but Impa seems to mistake it for the go-ahead to begin lecturing.

"What is going on is the backbone of our villages economy. While we Sheikah have many talented craftsmen we cannot produce everything our village needs. So we send out traders from those of us who most resemble Hylians. Trissa is the one who organizes it. She buys produce from our farmers and then sells it to the traders, who then sell the produce and using the money they warn to buy useful items from the nearby villages which they then sell to the villagers. Without Trissa and her work Kakariko Village would be in very dire straits," Impa explains, and then looks over to Trissa expectantly.

Trissa, however, is still reading her book and takes a moment to realize Impa is looking at her, "Oh um, yes Lady Impa, I am only doing my small part in helping the village."

"It is truly a necessary part though, and we are all thankful for your service," Impa says, before turning to the rows of fruit and vegetables laid out before her, "Now, I believe we are to shop. Link, if you would grab a basket please."

You nod, grabbing one and walking up beside Impa. Impa nods, evidently pleased you can follow orders and then turns to the carrots sitting in a bin in front of her. She then carefully picks up a carrot and begins to turn it over in her hands, eyes darting over every inch of its surface. This goes on for several minutes before she carefully sets it back down in a different way then she had picked it up as though to mentally mark it and then picks up the carrot next to it and repeats the process.

It takes her picking up at least five carrots for you to realize what she was doing, and why everyone had been giving you sympathetic looks. Impa was the type of person who had to inspect every fruit and vegetable for imperfections. Something that would be very tedious for everyone not Impa. With mounting horror you also remember that Impa was not just the guardian of Kakariko village but was the personal guardian of Princess Zelda. You remember how immaculate the dinners you had with the royal family were, how perfect everything looked. How everything in the manors pantry had the same level of perfection.

That was where Impa had learned what a princess's meal must contain. Impa was only going to pick the very best for Zelda, even if it took searching through everything in this store.

And you were supposed to stand here the entire time. Waiting.

...Trissa wasn't going to lend you her book, was she?

Damn... what to do?

Well, you could try making small talk with her actually, maybe that would also distract Impa enough she would have slightly less care over what she would pick out and you wouldn't stand here the entire day.

But what topics should you try to talk to her about?
[] Write-in.

ImmortalsBlade · Feb 7, 2018

[X] Ask her about life in the castle and what it was like when I lived there.

She looks at you, eyes widening in surprise, "You don't recall?" Impa says, seemingly forgetting the carrot in her hand.

You shake your head, "No, is it that strange?"

"It is fairly surprising, as Zelda remembers them quite vividly," Impa pauses, bringing a hand up to her chin as she considers your situation, "Then again, Zelda has told me of your life prior to your reunion. I could understand why those memories were lost to you."

Yeah, the daily struggle for survival left you with very little time for reminiscing. Were it not for your father's dagger you might have forgotten you were ever a duke's son.

"Well," Impa begins, closing her eyes as she remembers a happier time, "To say you and Lady Zelda were inseparable would be quite the understatement. Many noble families and royalty belonging to nearby kingdoms even expressed concern about it, even if the king made it clear on several occasions that he would not allow an arranged marriage to Lady Zelda."

Impa's brow furrows, and you see the trace of a frown on her face, "I was far too young to understand at the time, but your close proximity was not odd amongst the Sheikah, though we have never been as well off as Hyrule's nobility and both your mothers were of common birth and did not subscribe to the same viewpoint as the nobles did."

"So," She continues, "you took lessons together and would spend every free moment with each other when possible, with myself shadowing you when not training. Though it was often the case that Lady Zelda herself would seek you out, as you already styled yourself a knight in training by the time you were five. Lady Zelda was quite adventurous at the time, and would often explore the gardens with you to find some animal or defeat an imaginary beast. Many visiting nobles did not recognize that she was the princess and assumed you were play sword-fighting with a royal guards son."

You can't help but feel the faint hint of a smile touch your lips as you recall the faint hints of memories, even if quite a few of them involved being beaned in the head with a wooden sword or forced to try an... attempt at an elixir. You had to wonder how it looked to visiting nobles that the girl covered in dirt and wearing boys clothes was, in fact, Princess Zelda herself. Though... it was hard to compare the Zelda who was always outside to the Zelda you know now, the one who sequestered herself away from the world. So you changed the subject.

"Were there others?" You ask.

"No," Came the immediate reply, "You were her only playmate, or rather the only one she did not slip away from with the ease borne from her Sheikah heritage."

Oh... and you suspect the reverse held true for you as well. But hold on...

"Why weren't we forced? Surely the other members of the nobility would have wanted their children to be playmates with us for political reasons," You ask and to your surprise, Impa gives you a shrug.

"The king's advisor convinced him it would be fine, and in truth, the complaints did go down with time."

Advisor? Well, you definitely don't remember him. Still, you can't help but figure that the reasons the complaints disappeared were because Hyrule was dealing with a massive plague.

"I must say though, it's a bit amusing thinking of how many times I had to pull the two of you away from sneaking into the kitchens and seeing who you've grown into Link. I take it you've found it much easier to take honey directly from the source rather than try to sneak around the chefs, no?" Impa asks with a chuckle, her face lighting up with an amusement you've never really seen from her as she evidently recalls a memory you probably didn't find funny at the time.

"Well um..." You reply, suddenly feeling a bit awkward, "I'm uh... actually deathly allergic to bee stings."

"Oh..."

[X] Ask her about her family.

"I take it when you ask about that you are more specifically referring to my sister and brother-in-law's absence?" She asks, and you give an awkward nod.

Impa sighs, her expression wistful as she sets the vegetable she was looking at down, "It is a... difficult subject, you must understand. Though one you have a right to know about, considering your time at the manor. Purah and Symin are..." She pauses, evidently struggling to find the words, "They care about Zelda and Paya greatly, and my sister is a very driven woman. Anything that she views would aid the two of them she will pursue with all her being. Unfortunately, this means her research keeps her from home."

"What is she researching?"

"Old Sheikah runes, and technology like the Sheikah Slate. Her and Symin believe there are vast stores of data held within Sheikah Shrines, and that they are connected to a network. The largest deposit of data they've found is located in a shrine close to Hateno, so they've been travelling between here and Hateno for the past several years. As Hateno is a fair distance from here, this does mean they are often gone for significant periods of time. They've wanted to take Zelda and Paya along but..."

You nod, neither of them probably looked like they'd be able to leave the village until recently, and even then Zelda almost immediately ran into assassins.

"It is hard on my sister and brother-in-law, as much as it is on Lady Zelda and Paya," Impa states, absentmindedly grabbing one of the carrots and throwing it into the basket, the topic fully occupying her attention, "One of the reasons they're so driven is so they may remotely access the data store they found from the village, so that they wouldn't have to be away from Paya and Lady Zelda. Though... Lady Zelda won't be around much anymore to assist them when they return..."

You hadn't considered it before but Impa probably wasn't having an easy time with Zelda having to leave the safety of the village a second time. Not just because of her duty, but because Zelda was like a sister to her. Nevermind on top of it having people she thought were dead returning out of the blue with Zelda. It probably has already dawned on her that Zelda would probably miss Purah's return due to the necessities of the trip, which you are sure Zelda wouldn't be happy about missing either. But maybe...

"You know, Zelda wants to head to there lab and it would be a good idea to visit Hateno on our journey. There might be a Sage there as it's fairly large, and once we activate the various gates Purah and her husband will be able to return home much easier," You explain.

Impa actually seems a bit surprised at your response, looking over to you with an expression of surprise before she shakes her head, laughing quietly to herself as you see a wide smile forming on her face, "Purah's going to be quite shocked to see you all turn up, you know. But thank you Link, I'm sure Purah and Symin will have something for you as well so you don't have to make the trip just to put us all at ease."

[X] Talk to her about cooking, where did she learn to cook for one.

"My sister...? Why do you ask?" Impa asks, raising an eyebrow for a moment.

Well, this is awkward, "I... well..."

"The boy's a master chef at heart and is trying to see if you enjoy cooking as well Lady Impa," An old voice answers from behind a book.

You actually see the tips of Impa's ears turn just the slightest shade pinker as she quietly says with only the slightest embarrassed tone, "Oh..."

A long silence breaks out between the two of you before Impa states, "Paya usually cooks."

You nod, and the awkward silence continues for another minute until Impa says, "You... probably know which of these are actually high quality and have been keeping your mouth shut to not be rude, haven't you?"

You rub the back of your neck, not meeting her eyes, "Well.... um... figured you had Zelda and Paya's tastes in mind..."

She hands you the basket. You can't help but notice her ears are starting to look even redder.

++++

So after quickly filling up the baskets and returning home you suddenly find yourself with a lot of time of free time on your hand. Impa, however, seems a bit lost what to do with herself. She evidently was taking a day off as Prince Sidon and Undyne had taken over many of her duties, but it seemed she had fully intended to spend the day shopping, not used to quickly picking out ingredients.

You could probably take her someplace to spend the rest of her day off, but where too? Cottla and Koko were being watched by Zelda, Paya and Mipha. You could also have her actually interact with some of the villagers, as you get the subtle impression they mostly knew her from her scary guard persona. She also enjoyed being around Sif, so perhaps taking Sif and Elrora out would be something Impa would have fun with. Or maybe you can think of a better idea, not like everyone was completely committed to what they were doing, even if you needed to keep things in mind like "Someone needs to watch Cottla and Koko" and "Don't bother the guards on Duty."

[] Play with Cottla and Koko.
[] Head to the Village Inn.
[] Take Sif and Elrora out.
[] Write-in

GM note: Cold and minor health issues is why the time between updates has increased recently. Will try to get on them more, just haven't been 100% lately.

Of Royal Blood - The Legend Of Zelda

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