K η ι g н т

To think that the 100 year slumber would serve as the Goddess’s greatest mistake. In a bide for recovery, none would come to realize just how much would return to the being reincarnated through this endless cycle. Shards of himself, flayed, gifted with the immeasurable strength of humanity only to be cast into one pivotal roll in the timeless turmoil that to an outsider, seems like the biggest game beyond anything else. Mind and Heart torn away from the plane of morality, allowed to drift through dream and the essence of slumber forged a connection that leads to the truth.

Ever since his awakening, Link himself unshackled in ways that felt nonsensical to his long living soul. A weight that grounded itself upon his soul with golden chains had found themselves loosened, slacking, lost with the direction of his memories that naturally guided him to calling of reaping this land’s evil alongside the hard work of others.

People, while they remain the grand importance to his life, they also served as the lynch pin of to keep the deity of ferocity bound to the strings of the Goddesses. These time spent traversing the wilds to his own whims, without the rhyme or reason of guides, pinpointed directions outside a natural urge to save the princess he befriended, it allowed memories to return, times that were not spent in a waking second of this land.

Only under the curtain of night, staved away from the Eye of Din did he find hints of that past, times where he danced with an untamed and equally sincere ferocity amidst lands he couldn’t comprehend. Clouds almost seem to be the construct of the land, as stardust and the endless void of space-- colors, all sorts of figures that stirred happiness and anger danced within his mind. Link found himself clutching tight to these visions as they served as a breath of air fresher than any one time experienced on this world. It felt as if for the first time in a long time, amidst all of this confusion and fear, he was more then a simple envoy summoned during this game’s plight to right the wrongs.

He was alive, he was free.

Connecting with these dreams to such intimate scales after the fall of Calimity Ganon aspired Link to begin a new search. It’s a quest that stirs the unease of the protectors of these lands, conscious of the ancient strength beginning to stir within their Chosen Hero, the very embodiment of the void they managed to constrict had finally found it’s pivotal weakness, all due to the chaotic construct of this current Hyrule, one that seems to meld together so many of those shattered timelines into one. Could this be why the stir of chaos, dangerous foes that held an uncanny build of light tied with the primal darkness was beginning to form?

Only time could tell. If one were to note closely, streaks of silver were beginning to wade through the golden glaze of his hair, a silver haze clouding those once bright blue irises.

While being an ally of these very lands despite their creators, the hero would begin to find the truth, to who he is, to realize just how far the manipulations were taken once Demise’s curse served as the official lock on his once steadied chains, tied in hand with the Triforce of Courage that aimed to draw his lines of fate to their wishes.

Just a curious ask on out here but whose interested in adventure RPs? Whether Zelda base/crossover/Smash and just getting your characters on out there to show off a bit? I’ve always held a natural love for those.

“Verily,” she confirms, her heart warmed at the mere thought that this could bring some solace to the traveler who has fallen victim to time’s neverending cruelty. “I can assure you that we will be able to find some way back to your time, ser!” 

She could feel as though the eyes of the Talking Timbers followed the two as they pressed forward. Zelda didn’t really mind the timbers in spite of their uncanny faces, supposedly they made for good conversationist if one were to believe them to be alive as they had once been in the Dark World. Yet on a night such as this where the clouds would cover the skies obscuring the moon and stars, making the night an inky darkness, they most certainly came off as unsettling. Zelda thought that she had heard their whisperings laced with mockery and soft chortles ringing throughout the night. Her horse seemed somewhat spooked by them yet not enough to cause too much of a scene, she instead trudged in a slightly faster manner and Zelda would try to keep up with the mare. She comes to a stop once he points out something to her. Her body chants in horror as cold dread seeps through her bones.

“Who… what could have caused this?” Her heart blossoms with sorrow upon the tragic and ghastly sight that the young man would point out. She bows her head and tore her gaze away she offers a silent prayer to the gods for those poor animals to find peace within the spirit realm. The remnants of a brutality that was committed remained the princess that was an occurrence in the more isolated areas of Hyrule yet much to her surprise and some smidgen of relief (it had for she knew that civilians were getting slaughtered where her power could not reach them), these attacks are not as frequent as it had been with Agahnim in rule. She’d never seen a rather vicious act and due to this she had felt an inkling of fear; death that went hand in hand with danger was lurking around the corner, at any given moment ready to strike after catching the two off guard. 

Zelda begins to mull over his question, her memory was quick to provide an answer. She can oh so clearly recall that around three years ago, the darkness was unleashed and poured out into the golden lands forever corrupting her kingdom. Monsters of all sorts came through the door to darkness. There were far too many to keep track of and at best, Zelda only knew a handful of them due to her experience spent in the Dark World.

“Ah, indeed I know of a few. Around this area, there are Snap Dragon, Wolfos, Lynel, Taros–– Moblins are more common here but I never knew that they can be this cruel. Perhaps there’s something out there that even I do not know about.”

The several forks in the road was an inconvenience though one that could be easily remedied by just a single glance to the worn parchment which was clutched in her trembling hands. She takes a deep breath, trying to remain calm in a situation such as this. “… if the beast came from the more eastern direction, then I believe we should go north. From here we’ll still be able to make it to the grove however it will be a longer route than the one to the east of us. I must confess, I prefer if we go north for the beast could’ve either gone back to where it came or go westward… our destined direction. We can make haste with my horse, Storm, what say you?”    At this, a howl would ring out, surrounding the two making it hard to discern which direction it was coming from and she stares back at him in wide-eyed silence.

“We must make our decision now.”   

Their time runs short. Hearing the lustful call for blood upon the horizon had kicked in the timeless instincts that forged his fighting spirit. Her plan, her granted warnings, they were all considered on top of the finally putting his rupees where his promises lie. His composure remains firm, now taking this moment to reach his hands up, messing with his hood in order to draw the cloth to prevent it from obstructing his vision. His features sharpened alongside the cool breeze that drifts by.

“Very well. Settle yourself onto Storm, get yourself prepared and we’re bolting the instant we catch sight of where our enemy arrives. That--!” Footsteps! Hearing the snaps of twigs and old grass from her predicted direction, the words held true as the initial gleam of a menacing tear could be see tied away by the shadows and bark. After a quick survey of it’s prey, Hylians, a steed, it believed for it to be another worthy quarry. Their bloody maws snapped in delight, a primal growl rumbling within their throats, aching for the fear to ripen their flesh before attempting an attack of their own. However.. This wasn’t the cocky or boastful they faced..

Those eyes.

This wasn’t just any party they aimed to sink their insatiable appetites into. The ground rumbles strong as the pack of three Wolfos tear into the clearing, hoping to intimidate and work through numbers to ensure the quick kill. As their elongated claws were bared, arched and prepared to sink down into their hearts and flesh. In return, Link quickly snaps a hand back, grasping firm onto the hilt of his royal broadsword, firmly tugging in order to allow the weapon to sing as it tears from it’s sheathe, prepared to vanquish the foes standing before them.  Once they all locked into within striking distance, their attention directed themselves solely onto the charging knight.

Claws tore through the air, intending to rend and maim, hungry jaws snapped and lurched for for a pre-emptive treat. Yet all they’d find was not just the empty air earned by their hungry lunges. Yet, alongside that would be the piercing gleam of silver as the swordsman moved in pace that’s clearly in a league of it’s own. One horizontal slash, a momentum laced blow that struck and sliced through the Wolfos’s chest that caused it to violently lurch back. Afterwards, he’d brace himself, quickly tilting his torso downward in order to avoid the slice of claws that held decapitating intentions. Quickly jolting back, Link’s posture quickly straightened, delivering rapid pace of sword, puncturing at flesh in fur, staggering down the next.

The instant Link’s eyes had locked with the next, the violent rise in danger caused the Wolfos to think twice as it’s companions aimed to clamber back onto their feet. Cautious respect was made in that quick exchange of attacks,

It was all that he needs in other to quickly switch gears, turning back towards Zelda, the knight’s pace escalated while quickly sprinting from the opposition to quickly set himself onto Storm as well. Directing a glare towards his opposition, his suggestion was hastily drawn forth.

@soulxfcourage Count some more back up here!

“   GOOD.   Just stand in front of me  ,  side of me , & everywhere else so they DO NOT come   NEAR  me  !!  “

”Wherever danger roams I’ll see to it that your night is made leagues easier.” Here’s another swordsman by your side.

Past the events, prior to her temporary death, he’d gotten so quiet, silently holding onto the burden of being a knight, appointed for Zelda protection no less. But now, no longer was it present, more or less, which made it pleasant, to be able to hear him. Truly, she was glad, hence the soft smile soon resting ‘pon facial features.

Mipha listened, unable to supress a small chuckle. ‘’You know, i have not a big appetite’’, unlike whom seated next to her and Daruk. Perhaps any Gorons for that matter. Aye, Hearty Salmons were quite a luxury, not easy to track down either, unless going around the Ritos home.

‘‘Its fine, Link’’, fishes it may not be but it won’t be disregarded either. ‘‘If there is still too much, i’m sure the folks at the stable won’t mind getting some’’, considering one of the mentioned place, was rather closeby. A bit of generosity would not hurt after all.

”!! I erm, I know..” She always wound up trying to save more for him instead of vice versa. Even now it remains one of those still pondered memories, how could one go on eating so modestly? Yet in the same amusing vein, he knows many probably held questions about his own energized appetite.

Being back around her again, having a chance to actually ensure they remain a constant in each other’s lives was making him a touch more protective than intended. As if the smallest falling or inattentive edge would whisk them away back to that realm beyond. “That sounds like a great idea. It.. Reminds me of a time I cooked around one of them before. It turns up to be a big hit with the children.” He mentions, a bashful chuckle escaping him seconds afterward.

“Then. How about we enjoy what we can? I’ll get the rest saved and stocked up.”

Chomp.

In the days leading up to Link’s arrival the young chieftain worked subtly on her preparations for their outing, although the excitement within her was waiting to burst forth. She was accustomed in conducting herself in a sophisticated matter before the expectant eyes of her people, keeping her true thoughts behind a stately mask. Beneath the ornamentation and regality she was a merely girl, enlivened by her own sprightly nature and the onset of wanderlust. 

On the evening of her departure she sat waiting her bedchamber, finishing letters of consultation to Buliara and her cabinet of advisors in her refined script. Already she was swathed in the billowy fabrics of her travel robes with a single satchel resting near her feet. She knew there was little need to pack heavily for their journey–Link would have had everything they needed in that bottomless knapsack of his.

It was just as she concluded her final letter with a stamp of the royal emblem when a familiar rhythm, familiar only to her ears and her ears alone, sounded from the rooftops. In an instant she rose from her desk, quickly downing the last of the safflina tea that would keep her warm through the night before snatching up her bag and slipping out of the arched doorway. Her gaze caught his with a quick glance skyward, prompting her to smile broadly in greeting. 

❝This way,❞ Riju uttered into the dark, waving a hand as she crept onto the thin ledge just outside of her room. From there it was a small hop into the waterways that coursed over Gerudo Town’s walls. At the westernmost corner of town a rock structure allowed them an easy descent to the grounds just outside of the high walls. 

❝Surely you must be cold in that,❞ she said teasingly, tugging on his veil to reveal the face she had been waiting to greet. He smelled of pine needles and other faraway things, and his eyes always looked like they had  grand stories to tell. She considered herself lucky that she would be able to be a part of some of those fantastic adventures once more. ❝Go on and get changed. I wouldn’t want you freezing before we reach the canyon.❞ 

Meeting the gesture of his good companion had prompted his body to move in a instant. Slipping from the stone edge, it was a harmless fall down the bottom, reunited by her side once again as the promise of them entertaining that inner calling was nigh. As the side of her welcoming gaze, the knight’s lips quirked into a smile of his own. From here on out it was time for them to breeze by an infamous route that got them away from the city walls. For a momemnt, it caused him to forget just how breezy this garment could be especially on a chilly night.

Their movements was quick, almost thick as thieves would how swiftly they drawn themselves out of her established town.  Once they hit the sandy banks of the outside, only then the body heat drawn from movement began to weight. Needless to say the girl’s amused eye had caught onto that all too quick, his hands smoothing over his arms in some feeble attempt to gather up warmth. “Y.. You have no idea..” A soft glare containing no ill will was shot her way before he abides by those words.

After getting a makeshift instance of privacy, all it takes for Link to switch into more comfortable garb would be through the technological light of the Shiekah slate, quickly fixing his attire back into something a lot more notable.

Tucked into a pair of sand boots and pants, it’d be the following of the Hylian made fabric of his Champion’s tunic alongside the fairy enchanted ruby circlet, comfortably settled onto his head while joining back to Riju’s side. Being drawn away from the expensive silks and back into a more adjusted line of comfortable had twisted away that earlier expression. The last thing he needed was any run ins with interested company.

”Did you manage to get Patricia out for this adventure as well?” It was a simple question to start them off, knowing they typically do these ventures (at least by the desert ends) in a party of three. Sides her lively nature never failed in bringing that extra dash of contentment even upon the unforgiving waves of the desert. Stepping up towards Riju, he’s idly brushing the side of his head, doing the small things to warm himself up further.

“I’ve made sure to bring by some fruit for her this time around.”

“From what I could understand I believe you are saying that––– you are not from this world or rather, time, but from another time? How curious… but I apologize for your unfortunate circumstances.”

Her mind was quick to conjure up theories upon theories upon theories after his brief story was given breath. She knew the existence of the two worlds. The dark world and the light world and thanks to a fateful encounter with a native who came from the other kingdom that was not from either of those worlds: Lorule a land parallel to Hyrule. Travel between these planes was made possible through various ways that involved magic. A mirror, a bracelet, among other items and methods. Yet to travel through time by sheer magic alone was something she had never heard of. The concept of controlling time was nothing new to her. She’d read texts, tomes, and scrolls detailing the full history of the royal family and occasionally there would be an entry that mentioned the possibilities of manipulating time through an instrument. One had said it was a harp passed by the royal family for generations while the other would say that it was a flute or an ocarina, yet another instrument that’s been passed down as well. 

Her memory, for the most part, was one that she could count on due to the immense knowledge she held within her mind; granted the Triforce of wisdom is the reason for carrying such great amount of knowledge but the point still remains. But for once, her memories were vague with this subject.

“I’ve read various ways to control time yet I did not know that you could travel from to a time that is not your own.” 

Try as she might she could not remember the location of both the harp and ocarina and what their true usage was used for. Her brows would knit together as she would begin to twirl the ends of her hair while murmuring, her old habits whenever she was deep in thought. He could be lying, a thought had popped up yet Zelda was quick to dismiss that thought. He had no reason to lie to her at this point and as she had stated before: there were ways to travel through worlds and control time. This situation was an anomaly yet not one that was too far-fetched. 

Something would pop into her mind, her eyes giving away whatever idea she may have as she excitedly turns to her companion. 

“I think I know of a way to return you to your own time! There is this book… the Book of Mudora. It has various collections on the history of Hyrule, some of the texts would detail time travel. I believe that if we find this book then you can return back to where you belong. Back home.” A pause as she remembers something crucial. 

“However, the book is now in the library near Kakariko… and due to the fact that the library is currently closed, we must wait until the marrow to retrieve that book. Until then let’s continue on our trek. I believe we are almost near the Haunted Grove. Should you hear a flute then that means we’re one step closer to Kakariko.”

“I... You do..?” Link’s expression settled into personal disbelief made from his own end. Gracious, accepting and also oddly to the point. If the previous reactions made by townsfolk, alchemist and the breed of mages were anything to go by, a swiftly negative reaction had been the best expectation. Personally he couldn’t bring himself to blame them either.

Even in his land of Hyrule dabbling into magic that spans into the stream of time itself was nothing more than a legend. For all the mystery and wonder, magic and death defying beast that roamed within those lands, such direct breeds of magic outside of the roaming dragons of Din, Farore and Nayru, alongside the Princess and her champions left it a rare commodity. Of course this also counts the various enemies powered by the Calamity to control the elements.

Yet this never dabbled into time itself until Ganon’s foul sorcery had swept the both of them away.

Seeing this girl’s earnest efforts to find a solution motivated him.

“By Farore, really?’ Nearly stumbling in his steps, just as quick does he collect himself, standing tall and attentive to take in whatever leads she made of scrounged. At the mention of a certain tome, hope began to swell strong within the warrior’s chest, an opportunity was finally presenting itself. “Then that-- Mm. Very well. In that case that’s only more reason to temper our drive to reach there in a timely manner.” With that internal flame rekindled, it was time for them to brave through the grove standing between them and Kakariko.

Keep focused. Venture onward.

Before anything else he needs to ensure that she makes a safe passage to where she must venture.

Their pace allowed their stamina to be fully retain as the transition to the next area was met with overt details, passing through a squeeze of rocky terrain until the next area was reached.. Link would quietly scan the surroundings, picking up an interesting turn in how the trees were of an entirely different breed here. It’s as if they were staring back at him, faintly reminiscent to his adventure within the Lost Woods once upon a time. It never failed in unnerving him, fingers softly clutching at the air, all too prepared to take hold of his blade if it calls for it. Whereas there was one route, the roads became scattered as options were opened.

Whether it was to the true ends or a dangerous folly remained another question. “..Look at this.” Directing her attention to the east, the view of grizzled bark, gouged away by claws could be witnessed upon the now torn faces of some of the trees. Alongside that just like the earlier cases, fallen animals could also be witnessed as their life’s blood made a heavy disconnect to the emerald green of the grass.  Their timing hadn’t been any better between their pace and the route taken. Nightfall was nearing.

From where she’d seated herself, curiosity was stored within golden eyes, merely capable of noticing inches of what was being prepared. Admittedly, Mipha had not touched food for fewer days and that made it all but deserving to consume an edible or two. 

She actually missed the other’s cooking, whether it’d be him or from another Champion. Sure, it was not seafood based but that did not stopped the zora from trying other type of meals. She didn’t do so very often.

Thruthfully, the zoran princess felt bliss, at having been able to return 

                                               alive…

‘‘No need, its going to be enjoyable, i’m certain’’. In fact, as soon as the plate got left in front of her, she’d look at the meat curry mix. The scent was nice, refreshing but it felt like quite the portion. ‘‘Mayhaps it would be best to share this’’, she didn’t wanted to make it a waste, from eating half of that meal.

Hearing her earnest words never failed in drawing a bashful light from his complexion. During their time apart, much could be seen, much about him has changed in some aspects for the better. No longer that was stony silence such a prominent part of who he was. Being vocal, expressing himself in many more things outside of actions had been a big part in sharping Link up to who he was at this moment.

”Half? I mean, if you do insist, I’d like that.” Had he been that obvious? Thankfully more than one plate was present for him to work on splitting the portions, having the savory combination of a meal being set not at the opposing angle, yet, alongside Mipha’s as he comes to take a seat next to her instead. However it was obvious enough he left her with bigger set.

He couldn’t help but get the idea that a hearty meal would be the perfect solution to see that her energy is returned.

”I know it’s not the same as something I could whip up with Hearty Salmon, but, I did ensure the meat is of good quality. Consider this a bit of what you can inspect when we do get some of your favorites into the mix.” It could be considered a promise at this point. Thankfully, one he can keep with one of the biggest kindnesses the goddesses could’ve graced them.

A smile finds its way on her lips. Quite the kind stranger wasn’t he? She could hear the honesty saturating his pledge, causing some reassurance to ring in her mind. Rare was it to come across benevolent travelers on a night as late as this, there were many that were understandably hyper-conscious of their surroundings, not taking the risk to openly trust strangers met on the road. She could only assume that this young man was a capable enough warrior and it’s because of this reason alone was why he would take her offer. And though there was an immense amount of gratitude to be felt towards she could only hope that his words hold true. Her gratefulness belies a great quell of worry for his well-being for there’s little she can do in helping him should thieves or beasts were to come to intercept them from their path. She wasn’t a fighter. She was not made to fight. That task is reserved for her hero alone. No, Zelda was far more suited to play the role of the princess, acting as the people’s hope while carrying a great burden that the crown brings. Blessed magic bestowed by the goddess Hylia and the seven wise sages was all she had. 

In a gentle manner, she tugs at her mare’s reigns and begins to trail behind him. “I thank you, ser… but in return, I shall offer mine magic to you. If you are in need of healing then please, do not hesitate in asking. That said, take care that you do not hurt yourself.”

“Aha ha. Well, I feel a bit embarrassed about my reasoning. I visited the shrine to offer an orison to the gods of the old,” she says while once again drawing her attention to the map. She had decided that it’d be wise to check it once she takes notice to the groups of apple trees that began to gradually pave their path. It seemed that they were out of Lake Hylia’s vicinity yet it would still take some time to approach the Grove. No, she knew that the hauntingly beautiful cue would indicate their arrival to the Haunted Grove. 

“The winter solstice is drawing near,” Zelda continues. “And all I could do is pray for a merciful year. I did not expect to come back this late, I suppose I was too lost in prayer.”

It was her sacred duty as the princess of Hyrule to ensure the safety of her people through various means, this meant that she had to sacrifice so much in order to keep the common folk safe as well as satisfied. Yet she could not combat against the brutal fury the winter solstice brings. It was as though their gods had turned their backs, as though they were testing the endurance of the Hylians. 

“May I ask why you were out here as well?”

“For that, I thank you.” ...It was almost nostalgic, hearing these things from her in more ways than one.

Hearing of prayer being the reason had almost caused his heart to act before his mind. As his lips faintly part, no voice is offered as he captures what could’ve been an impulsive reply. Memories from another world, far back as too many years to count, it draws a complicated emotion from a thoughtful mention that should be so minuscule in hindsight. Walking like this alongside another, it used to be a duty he faithfully carried out, even at the cost of recessing into a mind made shell due to expectations.

Of course he knows those times are now far pass. “I’ll give you my word. As your reasons, what could ever be wrong about that?” Link’s voice quipped up just a smidgen for emphasis. “A merciful year doesn’t strictly applies to one’s self. It’s for those, the many who do need it, right? Everyone could use as much strength or good fortune they can muster.” It wouldn’t be just through good prayer they’d push through however. Another important tidbit while not spoken, but likely held in mutual understanding is that people depend on each other, working together, to make this success.

Her question draws another silent nod, the set pace of his stride thrown to autonomy as he reflects on the line of events that drew him to this point. A hint of tension lingers, causing the knight to clench his teeth from impulse before allowing his emotions to simmer.

“I’ll be honest. I don’t belong in this world.”

”It’s due to a fiends dark magic that I’ve been torn from my time and placed into this one.” This could’ve been a blasphemous claim if it hadn’t been for the sheer conviction carried in his words. Sounds of steel colliding with taste, unholy roars that matched with his roar cry, the sacred blade that powerfully sung, dancing by his side in the chaos of battle could be envisioned so clearly. Then came the Calamity’s ace in the hole, a way to bide for time while tearing them both from the Goddess blessed land and off into an entirely different realm.

Could a remnant or even all of the Calamity be lurking here as well? That question only adds stress to the situation that couldn’t be recklessly charged into. His eyes shift towards his companion before continuing.

“I’m on a search, to find some form of magic that can assist me to getting back to where I belong. I can’t say for certain what I can find as a lead, but no first steps can be made if I mull over this fact.”

“Until then I aim to help along those I can while trying to find that lead.”

“It’s not much, but I hope it’ll be enough to suffice. Can’t really get your day onward without a meal to back it up. So consider this one on the house.” Thus the plate prime meat curry was set upon the table. It was a meal lavished in the seasoning of Goron spice, tucked in with Hylian rice and the stock of the meat turned into a fine sauce assist flavoring the meat. Looks like someone was being modest.

Goodness this just shows my struggle with coding. I apologize you ran into this mishap, I’ll have to get them fixed up. Though in the meantime--

Here is a link to my rule’s page. It’s a sweet and easy list to follow by if I say so myself.

“Indeed. Their appetite knows no bounds, unfortunately.” 

Golden strands manage to spill past her cloak as she gives an inclination of the head, Zelda’s gaze shimmering with relief that he did not oppose her offer to help as most warriors of these lands would. They were all blinded with the glaring, dangerous flaw that only arrogance could bring, thereby refusing to take any aid granted to them. They wore pride as their armor, deluding themselves that they’re invincible to any threat, capable of handling danger. A great horde of vicious monsters would soon suggest otherwise. Fine fissures would crack within her heart, burdened it was with the heavy knowledge that these brave yet foolish warriors would be found dead in the early hours of the morn. So each time after journeying to the springs, she would often arrive at the fields during the precarious night hours, because of this Zelda made sure to prioritize a wayfaring person’s safety above her own should she come across anyone, regardless if they are able to hold their own or not. “Ah, so I take it that you are a warrior then? Well, I can assure you that this is no problem. I would be more than happy to offer some assistance to you.” 

“Aye, I know these lands very well, actually. There is a village not too far off from here, I am not sure if you are familiar with it but it is known as Kakariko Village. I shall lead you there.” She found it to be rude to stay upon her horse while walking alongside with the stranger, Zelda would climb off of the mare–– taking extra care to not fall on her skirt and stands beside him. “We best be heading off now before witching hour truly begins.” 

The holy realm of Hyrule is a vast kingdom. Far too easy was it to get lost within the fields, spending hours upon hours searching to find any signs of human life. Without a map to navigate through the plains, death would no doubt find its way to the poor victim. She always carried a map at hand, more for other people to use it rather than her self. Zelda had spent many nights memorizing these lands during her youth. She reaches into one of the many pouches that hung for the saddle and spreads out a yellowed map after she finds it. Pointing towards the upper left of it she turns to the young man.

“Right now we are near Lake Hylia, the Haunted Grove is to the north of here while Kakariko towards the northwest of that place. We will first make our way to the grove, it’s the best shortcut we have… and then from there, we should be able to reach our destination. Will you be ok to travel so far? If not then I can try to find a nearby tavern (though I am not sure if there is one… the Haunted Grove scare off many people).”  

A solemn nod would confirm the her question. Little time was held for stories until they could navigate themselves to a place where rest truly beckons. He was caught by the extent of the stranger’s kindness as they soon found themselves side by side by side. (The horse counts as well.) Trying times usually provoked the desperation and less savory traits of many as he’s come to experience personally. Her good will in seeing that her fellow man was well equipped earned his appreciation.

Shuffling just a bit closer, his eyes would survey the worn parchment with pensive eyes as thoughts were realized. Strange. This was Hyrule yet not the same land his blade was ultimately in charge to protect. Many of the markers were lands, towns and smaller details that were completely foreign to him. With the lack of futuristic towers throughout this region, the map feature of the Shiekah Slate would be useless from here on. “Aye. It hasn’t been too long since I’ve found rest and some game to my name.”

It was enough to keep his strength sustained and wisely made rations were kept and sprarsely salted for safe keeping. Difficult as it may be, a thankful smile is settled on the knight’s face as he finds himself with a new ally, for however brief it may be.

“Then consider my talents yours for the time being. Whatever trouble may come my way, I’ll be the blade that keeps all harm out of the way of your direction. Would that suffice for you taking me along?” Believing in efficiency, his legs began to move, keeping the noted directions in mind as they begin to steer down the path beaten down by many travelers. Being drawn from the grip of solitude allowed focus to be refreshed in his mind, preparedness now being one of his many blades to draw once again.