>>3143230
I don't need to get help. I can do this on my own.

>Check on Zelda.

>>3143230
>[Inform the guards]
Then
>I need to check on Zelda

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>>3143343
>>3143355
>>3143368
>Check on Zelda
>Secondary: I can do this on my own!
>Secondary: Inform the guards.

Zelda is the first priority here- even though she's annoyingly serious and lords her superior age over you, she's still a Princess, she's still your sister, and you're still chivalrous. Grabbing your sword and shield, you make a mental note to inform the guards before stepping across the hall and pushing open your sister's door. An empty bed sparks your worst fears, and you hustle down the hallway towards where you know there are guards.

One of the men on duty is the captain, your father's most trusted friend, and you know he can help you. You run into him, nearly literally, as you rush towards the gardens, mind buzzing as to where Zelda could be. "Woah there, young Prince- It's nearly midnight, so I'll call you Prince. What's the matter?" he asks with quiet concern. When you tell him what's going on, he immediately becomes serious and raises the alarm. "Stay put, princeling. We'll find your sister and this strange man as soon as possible."

As soon as he leaves, however, you decide you're going to help whether the Captain wants it or not. Going back to your room, you take up your sword and shield, making your way to the garden's entrance. The gate is already unlocked, which pricks up your suspicions, but there's no time to waste- whatever the intruder is doing is too important for you to worry about details now.

Making your way through the hedge maze is easy- when you were younger, you memorized its working inside out to jump out and scare your quieter sister. You stopped doing it after Zelda stopped reacting and chastised you for acting 'unrefined', but you can still avoid the guards with ease by passing through here. Luckily, the cloaked figure is still here, startled by the sound of guards and likely considering his options.
A close glimpse at the 'intruder' makes you suspect you know exactly where your sister is... but she has no reason to walk around at night, does she?

>Something's wrong. Keep following her, and make sure she and the guards don't see.
>Ambush your sister in the hedge maze and demand an explanation.
>It's not Zelda, it's someone in disguise!
>Sheepishly return to the Captain and explain that you were mistaken.
>[Write-In]

>>3143405
>Ambush your sister in the hedge maze and demand an explanation

Crown will be mine. Charge!

>>3143405
>*take up your sword and shield again
That was supposed to imply that Rohdan pretended to go back to bed, but we live with our mistakes.
Rule for posting rate is 20 minutes within the first reply- which should be plenty of time. I will attempt to combine the first and second most common options as often as possible- giving priority to the first, of course.

>>3143405
Ambush in the hedge maze.

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>>3143426
>>3143529
>Ambush your sister in the hedge maze and demand an explanation

Sneaking around her is simplicity itself, and soon you're able to place yourself around a hedge right where she's about to walk. Whirling around to cut her off, you raise your sword in a defensive dueling position and hold your shield up near your chest.

Zelda jumps slightly, but regains her composure almost instantly. "Rohdan, what are you doing here?" she asks in confusion, her volume little higher than a whisper. "Shouldn't you be asleep?" You shake your head and ask the same question in response. She goes silent, which only baffles you further. What is she getting at?

The sound of a guard headed your way makes her wave one of her cloaked arms. "Move, Brother. Now. This is far more important than whatever little game you think we're playing here." Even for her, her tone is extremely harsh. She stares at you with an anger that suggests she's willing to use force to make you move if you don't acquiesce. Her hands glimmer with magical power that suggests the same.

Your muscles tense up- you don't want to hurt your sister, not really, but every instinct in your body is telling you to stand your ground.

>>Add a 2d10 roll to your post. ('dice+2d10' minus quotes in Options)
>"If it's important enough to sneak about like a thief for, it's important enough to explain to your brother." [Common]
>"I might have let you pass until you started threatening me. I was suspicious before, but now I'm certain that you're up to no good." [Guardian]
>"What kind of future Queen hides her identity in her own castle?" [Noble]
>"Sorry, Sister." Beat her to the punch. [Warrior]
>Attempt to guess what kind of magic she's preparing to resist it. [Mystic]
>[Write-In]

Rolled 5, 6 = 11 (2d10)

>>3143534
Common.

Rolled 7, 5 = 12 (2d10)

>>3143534
>Attempt to guess what kind of magic she's preparing to resist it. [Mystic]

Rolled 10, 1 = 11 (2d10)

>>3143534
common

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>>3143598
>"If it's important enough to sneak about like a thief for, it's important enough to explain to your brother." [Common]
Common options are those that rely on empathy, closeness, and common sense- a high Common score means you understand others, especially those of low status.

Despite all of your teasing and rivalry, she's your sister. In your heart of hearts, you can't believe she has a truly evil motivation for all of this nonsense. Appealing to her conscience, you hope to break through her stern facade and get to the heart of this. She closes her eyes and looks up at the stars in the sky. The sound of the guards are getting closer. You can see a bit of a tear forming in one eye as she closes it.

>(11- Success at a Cost)

Leaning into you, she begins to explain. "Rohdan, you must trust me. I am keeping the Triforce safe- I must do this so that Father does not." She kisses you on the forehead with sororital love, embarrassing you a bit. "Become the man Hyrule will need in the years to come."

Before you can ask any more questions, you suddenly feel drowsy and realize that Zelda has cast a spell on you that will put you to sleep soon. She pulls her hood up and runs away as you slip into unconsciousness. The stars dance in your eyes as you use your last moments of strength to call for a guard to stop her.

(Cont)
>>3143705 Little late to the punch, sorry.

>>3143711
You wake up in your bed. It all seems like a bad dream until you notice that you're still holding your sword and shield- you definitely didn't take them with you to bed. Sitting up, you run out of your room and rush out towards the main hall.

Your sister stands across from your father, each on opposite sides of the table. The expression on your father's face is a mixture of disappointment and rage as he sees that your sister is covering her hand, from which a faint light glows. Your blood runs cold as you realize that your sister has opened the door no-one should. The royal family is entrusted with the protection of the Triforce, and it is kept in a special room always under the highest of magical wards. Only a member of the royal family may open the door, and only under the most desperate of circumstances.

She told you that she did this so your father did not, but what does that mean? Would he have done something wrong with its power? She doesn't speak, and her face is stony cold, giving you no more hint towards her motivation.

"Well?" the king demands, his temper barely restrained. "Are you proud of yourself? Have you accomplished what you set out to do?"

Zelda looks at the ground, closing her eyes wordlessly. She either has no suitable explanation, or is refusing to provide it right now.

"So be it. I expected better of you. Until you can explain why you've done this, I will regretfully have to keep you under surveillance." Your father waves his hand and guards approach to hesitantly take your sister into custody.

>"Father, this is madness! Are you going to imprison your own daughter?" [Forceful (+0)]
>Stand between the guards and your sister. This isn't going to happen on your watch. [Guardian (+0)]
>"Zelda, you must have a good reason for doing this- what's going on?" [Common (+1)]
>Stay calm. You trust your father's judgement- she will get her chance to explain. [Noble (+0)]
>Wrack your mind for any knowledge you have on the Triforce and why she might have decided to use it now. [Mystic (+0)]
>"Zelda, If you're not going to tell him, I will!" [Unlocked, Forceful (+0)]

>>3143705
>>3143710
Given there seems to be a bit of delay before the replies come in, I'm considering extending the wait time to 30 minutes after first reply to prevent missed replies, or indicating cutoff with a post (or both).

Rolled 9, 7 = 16 (2d10)

>>3143718
Guardian.

Rolled 2, 8 = 10 (2d10)

>>3143718
>Stand between the guards and your sister. This isn't going to happen on your watch.

>>3143766
>>3143823
>Stand between the guards and your sister. This isn't going to happen on your watch.
Writing...

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>>3143879
(16- Success)
Surprisingly, your well-meaning gesture isn't immediately swept away by Father's orders. The guards aren't willing to touch you without his permission, and they look to him in confusion. The King crosses his arms. "I'm a bit surprised you're defending her after being put to sleep, but I'll allow it. If you can convince her to explain and the result is acceptable, I will let this drop. Consider it your first task as a Prince."
This prompts a rare genuine smile from your sister, a fact that makes her look like your mother for a second. The moment passes as the guard captain takes your father aside, and Zelda continues to stand in silence before sitting down and addressing you.

"That man that Father spoke to yesterday was the Gerudo King. Do you understand what that means?" Your initial response is wondering whether he proposed to marry Zelda, something that makes your sister roll her eyes as if you were joking. "No, thankfully. He shares a similarity with the Thief King Ganondorf that I do with Zeldas past."
You know that the Thief King was a wicked man of great evil and eventually great power, as he stole the Triforce and attacked Hyrule in the past- after all, everyone, no matter how ignorant, knows who Ganon is. If that man is the same, he surely has similar wicked machinations in place for the world.

Your sister clasps her hands together with a worried expression. "I saw a vision of Father attempting to lay hands on the Triforce in order to prevent the Gerudo King from taking it- and the result was disaster on a scale I've never seen." She pleads with you, "I fear Father will not always be as he is now. I must leave, and you must be vigilant."

>"Leave? If you're right, you may be the only person that can prevent this!"
>"I trust you, but how am I supposed to explain that to Father? He certainly won't believe it."
>"I don't trust visions, Sister. How do you know this wasn't a trick to corrupt you?"
>"Where will you go? How can I contact you?"
>"I'll do whatever it takes. Go, and take the blessing of the Goddesses with you."
>[Write-In]

>>3143916
>"I don't trust visions, Sister. How do you know this wasn't a trick to corrupt you?"

>>3143925
>"I don't trust visions, Sister. How do you know this wasn't a trick to corrupt you?"
Writing... Slowdown indicates this will likely be the last post of the night.

>>3144030
She sighs. "I know it seems impossible, but I can't shake the feeling. It's as if I knew it as sure as the sunrise. Perhaps it's madness indeed, in which case I should leave as well. You and Father must go on without me. One day, if I am needed, I will return. Until then... Be strong." Her smile is weak and pained. You're sure you can see fear in her eyes. Despite this, Zelda seems truly unshakable in her conviction, and no matter how you plead, nothing seems to convince her to stop or change her mind. You have nothing to show your father, but after speaking to the Captain, he doesn't have the heart to imprison Zelda, leaving the Triforce mark where it is.

Your sister is present for your introduction to squiring, but vanishes four days later, along with her handmaiden, Impa. Her leaving sparks rumors of fleeing to a hidden city, but no pursuit was ordered by the King.
After Zelda's disappearance, your already-widowed father grows colder and more reserved, forcing you further into the limelight politically and as a ruler. You become proficient with sword, horsemanship, and lance, as well as in political lore, academic knowledge, oration, and some of the simpler magical arts.

Time begins to pass. You gain friends among the commonfolk and the guard, though you're not quite the image of a young Prince the ladies of the court are hoping for. It doesn't deter you, however. You're not here to gain the favor of the vain- you're here to protect your nation. The Captain becomes your regular trainer and liege, especially as you see increasingly less of your father. You try to make contact with the King, but he's mostly quiet and simply wants to make sure you're progressing in your studies. The process of losing your sister and being frozen out by your own father makes you even more determined to gain the favor of the people. Rumblings of bandit activity fills your time in training with excitement as the Captain shows you by example how to handle ne'er-do-wells.

(Cont)

>>3144069
At age 21, the past continues to haunt you. You wonder where Zelda is, and whether any of the things she feared would ever come to pass. You've been doing a bit of studying about the Triforce, but you're still not certain. A light swat to the head with a practice blade by your master snaps you back to reality, and you blink, motioning that you're fatigued and removing your helmet.

"You're improving well, my Prince, but you still need to adjust your fighting style. You're too defensive- too afraid to hurt people." The captain of the guard, past his physical prime but still your superior in skill, removes his helmet and runs his hands through his hair before replacing it and sighing. "You know the point of war is to kill the other person, right? All honor aside, that's what it comes down to."

You assure him that you'll have the nerve when the time comes, but the captain dismisses it and gestures to lead you into town. "It's not as big of a problem as I'm making it. Come on, I know you like to have meals with the troops. They've got a special on beef stew where you get a free tankard with." The offer to go to the tavern might be offensive to someone else, but you're more comfortable walking among the commonfolk than in ballrooms and everyone knows it. Protests from dukes about providing a good example won't change that any time soon. You change out of armor and into well-made but simple common clothes. Even without royal robes, you stand out a bit from the street folk. People recognize you as you approach the Jumping Fish, usual haunt of the castle guard.

>>Pick Two:
>You're quite tall for a Hylian, increasing your stride, draw strength, and raw power. Of course, it's a bit of a hindrance where bulk comes into play.
>You have an iron stomach, and will never go down first as far as a drinking contest is involved. While you can injest a lot of poisons without much more than a hiccup, you also eat for two.
>Ambidexterity is incredibly rare, giving you higher-than-average coordination and the ability to dual-wield. Two weapons are nice, but run into a brick wall when you come up against skilled or powerful enemies.
>You have a natural knack for magic, like your sister, even if it isn't quite as developed. If you run into a magical artifact, chances are you can get it to work- though other magicians will pick up on you as well.
>You're notably dashing and handsome, giving you a good impression among most folks and options the plain won't. However, your features make you recognizable and may get the wrong attention.

>>3144073
You're quite tall for a Hylian, increasing your stride, draw strength, and raw power. Of course, it's a bit of a hindrance where bulk comes into play.
You have a natural knack for magic, like your sister, even if it isn't quite as developed. If you run into a magical artifact, chances are you can get it to work- though other magicians will pick up on you as well.

>>3144073
>You're quite tall for a Hylian, increasing your stride, draw strength, and raw power. Of course, it's a bit of a hindrance where bulk comes into play.
>You're notably dashing and handsome, giving you a good impression among most folks and options the plain won't. However, your features make you recognizable and may get the wrong attention.

>>3144073
Dashing and Magic

>>3144073
>>You're quite tall for a Hylian, increasing your stride, draw strength, and raw power. Of course, it's a bit of a hindrance where bulk comes into play.
>You have a natural knack for magic, like your sister, even if it isn't quite as developed. If you run into a magical artifact, chances are you can get it to work- though other magicians will pick up on you as well.

>>3144073
>Quite tall
>Notably dashing

>>3144073
>tall
>magic

>>3144073
>Tall
>magic
Magic giant elf go

>>3144073
>You're quite tall for a Hylian, increasing your stride, draw strength, and raw power. Of course, it's a bit of a hindrance where bulk comes into play.
>You have a natural knack for magic, like your sister, even if it isn't quite as developed. If you run into a magical artifact, chances are you can get it to work- though other magicians will pick up on you as well.

>>3144069
>You have an iron stomach
>You have a natural knack for magic

>Dashing
>Iron Stomach

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>>3144082
>>3144107
>>3144311
>>3144712
>>3144733
>>3144779
>>3144784
>>3144929
>>3144945
>>3144960
>Tall: 7
>Magic: 7
>Dashing: 4
>Iron Stomach: 2
You have to duck very slightly as you enter the doorway of the tavern to avoid hitting your head on the sign. You're even taller than your father, which isn't terribly surprising, given your mother was nearly his height herself despite being a woman. Perking your ears a bit, you turn your head to see a small street magician entertain children with dancing lights. The ears of Hylians are supposed to be pointed to allow them to hear the goddesses better, but sometimes you wonder if they help you pick up on magic as well. You're a bit of a prodigy with charms yourself, though it's not your primary focus.

Sitting down, you catch up with Raven, one of your better friends among the Knights. He gardens as a hobby, which leads the ladies of the court to suspect he has a sensitive side. He doesn't. You don't have a lot of hands-on expertise with agriculture, but you can follow his complaints about crop rotation and handling pests without much trouble. Right now he's dealing with rabbits.

"Damn things chewed down my blueberry bush," he complains, leading a couple of the other knights to laugh and a smirk to crack on your face. "It's getting to the point where I'm considering getting another dog just to deal with them."

"What you need is a wife," the Captain suggests, "so you don't spend your entire life worrying about carrots." He picks up his tankard before asking, "Speaking of women, have you heard of the Gerudo lady thief leading a group of bandits near Nabooru Town? She's been specifically targeting Knights. Apparently her father was a Knight and was betrayed by his fellows for consorting with Gerudo."

"They killed him over that?" another Knight comments. "Taste in wife isn't worth blood over- usually. Especially between Knights."

"I doubt her story," the Captain says, taking a deep swig. "I think she's making excuses to stir up trouble. I'm picking out men for squad sent to deal with her tomorrow. It's a brisk morning's journey there."

>"Count me in, Captain...
>>...I'm interested in hearing her side of things for myself."
>>...I'm always up for a challenge."
>>...Those she's harmed deserve justice."
>"Count me out, Captain...
>>...I've got no business with vengeful harpies."
>>...There's something about my father that's been bothering me."
>Remain silent eat your meal, and observe the tavern for unusual events.
>[Write-In]

>>3145007
>"Count me in, Captain...
>>...I'm interested in hearing her side of things for myself."

>>3145007
>"Count me out, Captain...
>>...There's something about my father that's been bothering me."
Why are we chasing after Gerudo half bloods when we could be politicking

>>3145035
Because it's boring and requires from to remember lore

>>3145007
>"Count me out, Captain...
>>...There's something about my father that's been bothering me."

>>3145007
I'm always up for a challenge.

>>3145007
>...There's something about my father that's been bothering me."

>>3145023
>>3145035
>>3145041
>>3145044
>>3145062
>Count me out, there's something about my father... 3
>Count me in... 2
Cutoff here, I'm going offline for a bit. Next option will be open for longer.

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You express your concerns to the Captain, who looks into his tankard. "Aye, I suppose there is." Regret shows in his eyes- you can see drink is making him a bit reflective. "I won't ask you to come along, then, Plenty of men can do the work." Raven sees his commander's reaction and quietly decides to go with you when you return.

The stew is hardy and tastes decent enough, but it refuses to settle in your stomach. Even as an adult, you don't like to provoke arguments with your sire. Every year makes him fatter, less patient, and more set in his ways- You'll need to approach this carefully.

The King has retired by the time you get back, a maid that used to attend Zelda motioning you to stop as you approach your father's study to speak to him. "He's in a bad mood, Prince Rohdan. It might be best if you leave him be with his wine."

Raven places his arm in front of her to stop her from blocking you. "And let him grow more angry alone? Come on, Lissandra, let the royals speak." He nods to you, and you push open the door slightly to enter.
The room is lit with a single candle on your father's desk, and the smell of wine is in the air. Good wine, by your nose, the sort that empties pouches of rupees.

The King is considering a map, and there are models representing armies on it. That's not a good sign. War isn't supposed to break out soon- you were in the room when the Gerudo King Dragmire negotiated a mining contract in exchange for access to Hyrule food markets. He was deliberate in action, but he didn't seem the malicious figure your sister saw.

Your father handles a goblet as he moves an army towards Goron City. He sees you and puts down his drink, considering your approach as if wondering what you're doing here. The effect is not welcoming. "Just playing with toy soldiers. What seems to be the matter, my boy?" His tone and smile are forced, as most of his focus is on the map.

>"I find that a bit hard to believe, Father- You're certainly not treating it like a game."
>"I had an idea to throw some sort of ball or tournament. Things seem to be too serious as of late, and it's hurting morale."
>"...Have you heard from Zelda, Father?"
>"What ails you? You act as though you're being haunted."
>Quietly remove the wine bottle from his reach.
>[Write-In]

>>3145675
>"What ails you? You act as though you're being haunted."

>>3145675
Remove the wine from his reach.

>>3145709
>>3145798
>"What ails you? You act as though you're being haunted."
>Remove the wine from his reach.
Writing...

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>>3145878
You express your concern and remove the drink from where it rests near him to emphasize the point. He sighs and looks at you with a stern yet determined expression. "Son, you are no fool. Surely you must know of the past battles that Hyrule has faced time and time again to remain the kingdom it is. Ganon's return is as constant as it is inevitable. But what if it were not so?" That seems like an odd question to you. If Ganon's return were really stoppable, then one of the many heroes of the past would have put an end to him, wouldn't they?

"It seems so impossible. And yet I cannot help but feel that this can be yet accomplished. There is one power in all the known world that can truly grant wishes, isn't there?" he prompts you. "The Triforce. If it were brought together again, we could wish for the end of the Demon King. If Zelda had not been so hasty in her actions, this issue might have been solved long ago," he grumbles angrily. "It only stands that we must find her and the other two members- one of which will certainly be Ganondorf. If he has the Triforce of Power, he is sure not to cooperate for hopes of achieving the Triforce before us."

The King stands up. "We must find your sister- and quickly. There is sure to be another... the Triforce of Courage always finds itself in the hands of an ordinary Hylian turned warrior. We must find him too- not simply for the purposes of making the wish, but also for the fact that if history is repeating itself, Zelda and the Triforce are already in danger." He points at the Gerudo's territory. "Zelda hid herself from him... If he has the Triforce of Power, he is already biding his time and we must act now."

>"You're taking all this action based on a hunch? Perhaps Zelda was right to flee."
>"I've never seen a Triforce symbol on the Gerudo King's hand. Perhaps it's with someone else."
>"If you're right, we have no time to waste."
>"I will find Zelda myself, if it will put these fears of yours to rest. It would be good to see her again."
>[Write-In]

>>3145941
I will find Zelda herself. If it will put your fears to rest.

>>3145956
Supportin'

>>3145956
>>3145970
>"I will find Zelda myself, if it will put these fears of yours to rest..."
Writing...

>>3146028
Perhaps that was brash to say, but no more so than the rest of your kin seem to choose to act. Zelda flees, your father prepares to go to war... this nonsense needs to be settled, and by the Goddesses, if there's anyone that's equipped to settle it, you're more than a match for the challenge- you hope. The fact that you don't know where Zelda is doesn't play any role in your decision. The King is encouraged by this, thankfully, and begins preparing a map instead of arguing. "You will need to go stealthily, with as few allies as you can manage. But you must return- Hyrule depends on its heir- you, as of now."

You are supplied with a horse, traveling gear for all seasons, and given the best of whatever you need, procured quietly. Raven insists on going with you, saying, "You need an extra sword at your side before anything else. Besides, I know a thing or two about plants and animals, wild or domestic." He is given similar supplies, gathered by confused servants as the sun sets.

Having already eaten, this will be the last night you spend in bed before heading out on the road. You plan to enjoy it, though the terseness of everything makes you pace in deep thought. Looking at your family portrait, nostalgia fills your heart. You're sitting on your late mother's lap, Zelda in Father's. It as a better time. As heartsick as it makes you, you look away and focus on the task at hand.

You know a mission like this can't be undertaken with more than five or less than three. You need at least one other ally, probably two, in order to succeed in your tasks. You don't have a lot of time to procure allies, and the Captain is straight out due to his assignment, but it might be possible to call on some old friends on short notice. You've already made a snap decision today, so dammit, you might as well keep making them. Stroking your pitch-black horse's mane to calm him down, you consider who you could call on to help you search for your sister.

>>Pick at least one and up to three:
>Ojo, a tracker. He's a somewhat of a recluse and might have a few conspiracy theories, but no-one knows Hyrule's terrain better.
>Ithei, a hedge mage. She's been called a witch, but you know better. Normally patient and courteous, if pushed too far she'll throw a temper tantrum.
>Darros, a bookworm. Better than you at magic, and takes every opportunity to demonstrate it. Also a very useful source of information on anything you might find in a book.
>Ijoh, a reformed thief. She's approaching elderly age, but she's still crafty enough to get the average con done, and can easily disguise you.
>Shesha, a sprightly would-be soldier. She'd jump at the chance to join you- and besides, she's adorable enough to talk you out of trouble.
>A strange man carrying two swords hangs around the well in the center of town all the time. Perhaps his mystery is your benefit.
>There must be someone else... [Write-In what you're searching for]
(OOC: Last post of the night. Happy New Year!)

>>3146087
>Ijoh, a reformed thief. She's approaching elderly age, but she's still crafty enough to get the average con done, and can easily disguise you.
Ojo, a tracker. He's a somewhat of a recluse and might have a few conspiracy theories, but no-one knows Hyrule's terrain better.

>>3146087
>A strange man carrying two swords hangs around the well in the center of town all the time. Perhaps his mystery is your benefit.
>Ojo, a tracker. He's a somewhat of a recluse and might have a few conspiracy theories, but no-one knows Hyrule's terrain better
>Ijoh, a reformed thief. She's approaching elderly age, but she's still crafty enough to get the average con done, and can easily disguise you.

>Ojo
>Ijoh
>Strange Man

>>3146087
>Ojo
>Ijoh
>Strange Man

>>3146087
>>A strange man carrying two swords hangs around the well in the center of town all the time. Perhaps his mystery is your benefit.
>>Ojo, a tracker. He's a somewhat of a recluse and might have a few conspiracy theories, but no-one knows Hyrule's terrain better
>>Ijoh, a reformed thief. She's approaching elderly age, but she's still crafty enough to get the average con done, and can easily disguise you.

A dual wielding edgelord, a tinfoil hat conspiracy nut and an elderly lady. I literally can see no better adventuring party than these three. We can be the mage / obligatory normal guy.

>>3146087
>Ojo, Shesha and Darros

>>3146087
Super interested in how a Prince would even know a reformed thief and a recluse tracker in the first place
>Ojo
>Ijoh
>Strange Man

>>3146087
>Ojo
>Itthei
>Shesha
Bookworm could be a liability in the field and we aren't gonna find Zelda hiding in a book (probably).
Strange man could betray us as we have no idea who the fuck he is
Ijoh is tempting but I'm not sure how a retired thief stacks up to a Sheikah ninja, should Zelda have teamed up with them in her quest, also her age might work against her.
Depending on where we search the skills of a thief might not be too important, besides it's unlikely a country bumpkin will recognise us anyway, most people probably don't even know what the king looks like.

>>3146087
>Ojo
>Ithei
>Ijoh

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>>3146097
>>3146106
>>3146127
>>3146261
>>3146658
>>3146680
>>3146693
>>3146999
>>3147175
>Ojo: 9 (Unanimous!)
>Ijoh: 7
>Strange Man: 5
>Shesha: 2
>Ithei: 2
>Darros: 1

>Ojo, a tracker. He's a somewhat of a recluse and might have a few conspiracies hidden away in that brain of his, but no-one knows Hyrule's terrain better without using a map.
You know him from when you were hunting and tripped one of the traps he had (illegally) placed. He was impressed that you were able to pry open a bear trap while your leg was stuck in it, and your known ability to sympathize with the commonfolk made him more amiable to share his mad ramblings with you. You had considered turning him in, but he gave you a vulnerary that sealed the wound very quickly, as well as gave you some tips for stalking animals and with archery. Despite the distrust he has in authority, he recognizes that the loss of the only heir might not be a good thing and is willing to protect you.

He seems to be expecting you when you call on him. "It begins!" Ojo croaks, armoring and equipping himself before stuffing as many maps and as much equipment as he can into his bag. It takes less than five minutes for him to be ready to march, as he's always ready to leave at a moment's notice and lives off the land without much effort. It's a little more concerning when he burns down his own cabin afterwards, but the flames are contained and he seems satisfied with the result.

(Cont)

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>>3147368
>Ijoh, a reformed thief. She's approaching elderly age, but she's still crafty enough to get the average sneaky trick or con done, and can easily disguise you all if needed.
Tripped up in her last minor heist three years back, Ijoh got release through a mixture of appealing to the court for sympathy and serving the Knights as an informant and boxed crook. Allegedly she's a mother, though you've never met her daughter. It takes three knocks before you finally decide to politely open the door to her room. She awakes and murmurs something about the Captain and this not being the time. After a short explanation, the wrinkled trickster woman changes into her old gear and pulls a bandanna over her face. "I think I know where we should start." She closes one eye conspiratorially.

>A strange man carrying two swords hangs around the well in the center of town all the time. Perhaps his mystery is your benefit.
You approach him with a little dread, expecting a negative reaction. When the pale man sweeps around to face you, your hand goes to the hilt of your sword, but he just seems confused. He looks around as if looking for someone and then points to himself as if clarifying that you wanted to talk to him. Listening carefully to your instructions, he nods at appropriate points. When you're finished, he gives you the 'okay' sign and bows at the waist. That all went better than expected.

---

You form up before sunrise with your allies and describe the situation. Ijoh explains where she thinks Zelda is. "With the Sheikiah, obviously," she states, drawing their trademark eye on the ground with a stick. "Shadows of Hyrule. If she wants to vanish, there's few better places to hide and train."

"The Shekiah?" Ojo asks, slamming his fist on a nearby wall. "Their monasteries are just ways to get rid of unruly political enemies without getting noble hands dirty. They produce magical goods for Hyrule, but most of the monks are required to swear to chastity so they don't form a threat to the elite."

Your silent swordsman, who everyone has agreed to call Guy to avoid confusion, simply looks at Ojo with concern.

"...Right," Ijoh waves him off dismissively. "The closest monastery lies a little higher up than Darunia. It's an arduous climb after a week's travel, but we can attempt a shortcut through Goron territory if you'd rather sweat than freeze. You don't need to make your decision now- we'll have to stop in New Kasuto to resupply anyways."

"Sounds good to me," Raven nods, standing. "If worst comes to worst, we can always ask them for a lead."

>"Let's head out- No time to lose."
>"Ijoh, you seem to know a lot about the Shekiah. Mind explaining a bit more?"
>"Anything else you feel might be relevant, Ojo? Any special obstacles or other side paths?"
>"I don't plan to stop at New Kasuto- we're going to walk through the wild all the way there. Call it a hunch."
>"Raven, start without me. I need to get one last thing from my quarters."
>[Write-In]

>>3147468
>"Ijoh, you seem to know a lot about the Shekiah. Mind explaining a bit more?"
>"Anything else you feel might be relevant, Ojo? Any special obstacles or other side paths?"
Can we combine these two? It's good to get all possible info out into the open before we finally commit to a course of action.

Also
>Swordsman is a mime
HMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

>>3147468
>>"Ijoh, you seem to know a lot about the Shekiah. Mind explaining a bit more?"
>>"Anything else you feel might be relevant, Ojo? Any special obstacles or other side paths?"

>>3147468
Let's head out.

>>3147468
>"Ijoh, you seem to know a lot about the Shekiah. Mind explaining a bit more?"
>"Anything else you feel might be relevant, Ojo? Any special obstacles or other side paths?"
Wherever she may be, Zelda has enough of a head start on us that there's no way we can hope to catch up. Might as well take some time to brainstorm so we can plan our journey better.

>>3147489
>>3147531
>>3147536
>>3147552
>"Ijoh, you seem to know a lot about the Shekiah. Mind explaining a bit more?" : 3
>"Anything else you feel might be relevant, Ojo? Any special obstacles or other side paths?" : 3
>"Let's head out.": 1
Writing...

>It's a little more concerning when he burns down his own cabin afterwards, but the flames are contained and he seems satisfied with the result.
i already love this man

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>>3147591
"Well, assuming your sister is with them, it won't exactly be easy to find her," Ijoh sighs. "Some time back, all Shekiah began to refer to themselves as 'Sheik'. The uniforms aren't just for show. Unless they have a very good reason to do so, they won't reveal their identity. It prevents intimate relationships or cliques from forming."

"Why not just ask around until Zelda hears she's being called?" Raven asks. "I mean, he might be only one of two people she trusts at this point, and it's not like she's forgotten her name."

"It's not impossible to dress up as a Prince, young man. If she's there, you'll need to convince her you're the real deal, and if she's not, she may have come and gone without giving her true identity." She looks you over, considering your resolve before looking away. "The bright side is that they spend a lot of time praying, crafting, training, and performing magical rites. If you need something enchanted, improved magical skill, agility, or clarity of mind, they can help you. Very spiritual. Very reserved. One of them might come with us if you ask. They'll feed us modestly out of hospitality, though we may be asked to work."

As for the question to Ojo, he unfolds a map and runs his finger alongside a river. "Bilku River. Runs down the mountain near the Ruto Forest. Slow enough current that you can go upstream to New Kasuto a little faster than riding- save two days overall." The river is supplied by melting snow and runs along the side of the mountain. A quick guesstimate places it about a day's walk out from where you are now.

"Boring, but effective. Not very comfortable, but it's sure to be secret unless we run into someone unexpected. Have to raft and leave our horses, but they won't make it in the mountain anyways. Try to look out for the Zora that come upstream from the ocean. I hear they sink merchants rafters for fun and eat the corpses of the drowned," he whispers before closing the map again.

>"...Of course they do. Perhaps we should go by land, then." (7 days)
>"It's not adventure without a little danger and a little work. We'll go by river." (5 days)

>>3147654
That's why I picked him.
>>3147690
Go by river.

>>3147690
>"It's not adventure without a little danger and a little work. We'll go by river." (5 days)
If we can't pass the tutorial stage we might as well pack up and go home, things are only gonna get harder from here.

>>3147690
>>"It's not adventure without a little danger and a little work. We'll go by river." (5 days)

>>3147690
>>"It's not adventure without a little danger and a little work. We'll go by river." (5 days)

>>3147695
>>3147699
>>3147739
>>3147747
>"It's not adventure without a little danger and a little work. We'll go by river." (5 days) (Unanimous!)
Writing...

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>>3147808
(OOC: Alas for delays.)

On the first day, you enjoy the simple pleasure of leaving town and enjoying a trek through the calm plains of Hyrule, headed into its lush forests. It's relatively quiet going, as you're not very talkative and neither is the swordsman you hired. Ojo constantly has his eyes peeled for the slightest sign of danger, and Ijoh holds up the end of the line, complaining about youngsters but still managing to keep pace. Raven whistles to pass the time.

Soon, you enter the Ruto Forest, and make your way through a long-trodden path to a dock nearby which some merchants sit around their campfire soaked to the bone. Ojo instructs you, Guy, and Raven in the process of making a raft while Ijoh sets up camp before nightfall comes. You're finishing up carving an oar when the last rope is lashed around your craft and tied down. The merchants are staying overnight, though they don't seem to have much to trade. No wild animals to be seen, either. You saw a wolf pack on your way here, but they let you go your own way.

It seems very peaceful, and quiet compared to the city you call home. You can see the stars where the treetops clear. The meal is game, mildly overcooked to prevent disease, and local greens and berries. Not the worst meal you've ever had- royal chefs tend to get bored easily. You start to get a bit drowsy, but shake it off. No need to get lazy on the first day.

Deciding to keep yourself busy, you look around. The fire has enough wood to burn the whole night, and Guy has already gone off to sleep. Ijoh sits near the fire, surveying the sky. Ojo keeps watch, eyes scanning the water and merchants alike. Raven is still finishing up the leftovers of the meal. There must be something you can do to pass the time until resting for the day.

>Speak to Raven. He's good for chatting about anything, and you're sure you can trust him with any secrets or concerns you may have.
>Investigate Ijoh. She still seems to have more than meets the eye behind her wrinkles.
>Consult Ojo. Maybe his conspiracy theories will help you come across an important secret.
>Study what you know about magic. You'll need all the help you can get with the trials ahead of you.
>Negotiate with the merchants. They might have something you need.
>Just go to bed- You're overthinking things again.
>[Write-In]

>>3147893
>Consult Ojo. Maybe his conspiracy theories will help you come across an important secret.
>Negotiate with the merchants. They might have something you need.

>>3147893
Interact with the merchants.

>>3147893
[Write In]
>Work out a basic communication code with mysterious swordsman
Otherwise its gonna be a game of charades if Swordsman ever wants to tell you something. And let's not get started about communication in battle...

>>3147916
>>3147920
>>3147921
>Negotiate with the merchants. They might have something you need : 2
>Consult Ojo. Maybe his conspiracy theories will help you come across an important secret: 1
>Work out a basic communication code with mysterious swordsman: 1
Writing. I'm going to make the other two options secondary goals.

>>3148006
>Work out a basic communication code with mysterious swordsman.
You manage to get him awake for a short period, and try to explain the situation, but it's all you can do to negotiate out more signals than 'yes' and 'no'. You get him to agree on a signal for 'stop', one for 'enemy', one for 'friend', and one for 'go', before he drops off to sleep again. Oh well.

>Consult Ojo. Maybe his conspiracy theories will help you come across an important secret.
"Bring your own water into the desert. The Oasis near the Gerudo is spiked to make males that drink from it docile." Uh. Maybe you should speak to the merchants while there's still daylight.
You approach the leader of the merchants and express your intent to browse their wares. He's a little fatter than average, and wears fairly fine clothes that have been slightly ruined. He also has a pendant that catches your eye as magical, a gold circle with a circular inset ruby. Pointing to a crate on the side of the river, he shrugs. "If you like. All we've got left are winter clothes, soaked by the river."

When you ask him what happened, he explains, "The nearby Zora ripped our raft apart in revenge for the slag pollution in the river- but that's not even caused by New Kasuto, it's the Gorons dumping extra rocks into the river. That was the only crate we were able to retrieve. We have enough food to head back, but I've lost a month's worth of trading at least." Shaking his head, he continues, "Since they're soaked and might be molding by now, I'll take any price short of free for those clothes."

You don't have too much money, but you are fairly well off. A quick mental calculation places clothes for five at 100 Rupees. You have 500 on your person. You might not need to buy much on your trip, but that's still enough money to put a dent in your wallet.

>"We'll need them later and you need the money. I'll buy them for the full price." [-100 rupees]
>"If you're offering... I'll take them at half price." [-50 rupees]
>"We'll be dealing with the Zora. Hopefully you'll get some of your wares back."
>"What about that pendant? How much for it?"
>[Write-In]

>Half price... but we'll pay the other half should we meet him on our way back, plus
>Any stuff we may find with the Zoras
>Ask about the amulet

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>>3148129
(OOC: And that slowdown indicates that this might be the last post of the night.)

>>Half price... but we'll pay the other half should we meet him on our way back, plus
>>Any stuff we may find with the Zoras
>>Ask about the amulet
450 Rupees remaining

"Thank you," he sighs. "At least this isn't a complete loss. Please, if you can find me, my shop is known as Cornelius's Trading Post. I have another upstream, and if you bring the goods there, they should be able to contact me- I'll send you a reward for the recovery as soon as I can."

When you mention the amulet, he shrugs. "Oh, this old thing? Some man pawned it off to me in exchange for minor goods, claiming it enhanced magical powers. I've never gotten it to work, but it looks nice. Never found a buyer for it, but I've had it appraised at 300 rupees- it's not too large or fancy, but there's still a gemstone in it. Thankfully, the fishmen didn't take it from me when they dropped me in the water." He looks to you. "For you, it's 270, since you've already kept me from going totally into the red and I'm not using it for much."

You can't discern the properties of the amulet, but this might be an opportunity you literally can't afford to pass up.

>Deal
>No Deal
>"I was thinking of buying it for..." [Name Your Price]
>[Write-In]

>>3148211
>Try it at 250 because zeros and Shit
>Do it for 270 if it doesn’t go.

>>3148211
>>Try it at 250 because zeros and Shit
>>Do it for 270 if it doesn’t go.
Nice round numbers.

>>3148213
This is fine.
Man, I feel bad for the guy. We really ought to return afterwards (and maybe tip him if this amulet is all it's cracked up to be).

>>3148211
Any tips on avoiding Zoras?

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>>3148213
>>3148295
>>3148310
>Try it at 250 because zeros and Shit
Hoping to keep numbers clean, you make the offer at 250. After a little hesitation, the merchant agrees and hands over the amulet. "It wasn't selling anyways... You'll find more use for it and I need the money."
200 Rupees remaining

You can't discern its properties yet, but the amulet feels warm in your hand. Even when you let it cool off in water, as soon as you touch it, it heats up again. Seems useful enough. Perhaps it can start a fire, or help you channel heat through magic.

>>3148328
>Any tips on avoiding Zoras?
He shrugs sadly. "Not really, given we failed. I suppose not carrying anything important might help. Though given you're the Prince, your business is surely much more crucial than mine. I hope they at least respect your position after they try to make you swim."

You're stuck up a river, it seems, but at least you have paddles. Time to put that self-discipline the Captain was always trying to instill in you to work. You hold your new amulet and wonder if it might help you in your quest before walking back over to your sleeping bag and tucking in for the night.

---

Loneliness distracts your sleep.

Even when you imagine yourself a harem in the center of Hyrule, hoping to drown out sorrow with sensation, you still feel lost and distant. Pushing the imaginary women aside, you think of your sister, and see her playing a harp. Next to her is another woman, a Shekiah, who catches your interest. Then Zelda becomes a Shekiah herself, retaining her hair and eye color. You feel as though you're headed the right way as far as prophetic dreams go.

You try to memorize the first woman's features, or learn more about her, but you can't remember anything more than blonde hair and red eyes... Common to their clan. Your head spins with strange lights and the meandering images only dreams can produce.

---

That'll be it for this thread. Unfortunately, I can't say when the next thread will be, though I'll archive this and hopefully be able to continue ASAP. Thanks for being such good sports about the delays.

Archived at: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/3143230/