Legends of Hylia: Conclusion of Perpetuity

[Red Thunder]

LEGENDS OF HYLIA
Conclusion of Perpetuity
​

A millennia has passed since the last incursion of divine evil, and the avatar of that evil, Ganondorf Dragmire, is now a rumor and myth, a bedside boogie-man of giant proportions and porcine appearance to frighten children into remaining in bed. The Hyrule Royal Family has carried the tradition of naming their eldest daughter Zelda, after the incarnation of the goddess Hylia to match Ganondorf, and many queens of that name have presided over the kingdom with wisdom. Not all, but many.

Over the years, the Kingdom of Hyrule has partaken in many a prolonged and arguably needless war with its neighbors. Heroes have arisen among all races, each fighting at times for noble and ignoble cause, and no war was so harshly fought as the Medallion War, a conflict in which nearly every power in Hylia vied for three magical medallions said to unleash devastating magical destruction in their area. It ended only when the artifacts were lost during the Battle of Lakeside, where, between Mount Eldin and Lake Hylia, the innumerable forces of kingdoms and tribes fought for domination. The Hyrulian Army emerged the victor, but with the medallions lost, the aim of the conflict had vanished. While there were some continued battles after, as parties accused others of having secreted the medallions away, a peace treaty was drawn up and, with the exception of a few outlying River Zora tribes, Rito eyries, and Gerudo marauders, the Hylian Peace Accords were signed by all parties involved in the fighting, returning all to status quo.

That was a century ago. A generation and a half had passed, and while there were some gentrified elders who remembered if vaguely watching their fathers march off to battle, the Medallion War might as well have been as dusting a memory as Ganondorf Dragmire himself: a thing remembered in songs, the end of which should be celebrated.

And celebrate they would. King Gustavus Recindus was hosting a celebration unlike anything anyone alive had seen, and all were invited to participate. For months, messengers had carried invitations to all corners of Hylia, passing the precipices of the North Peaks, delving the depths of Death Mountain, sailing the Sand Sea, and to all other ends of the land. They spoke of games and contents, of entertainment and vendors, of sacrifice to the Goddesses and feasting beyond anything ever before seen. Every citizen of Hyrule, and indeed, every visitor from across Hylia, would have the chance to see wonders of all kinds, and even to show their own, should they so desire. All that was requested was a powerful heart, a wise mind, and a courageous spirit from all who came.

And so very many came. The Razordancers of the Gerudo, among others, sent emissaries. The Rito village of Skye sent their most talented fliers and bowmen. Craftsmen of Kakariko Village and skilled jewellers of the Gorons of Death Mountain came in a caravan, finding each other's company convenient. Even the Hylia Priesthood of Lake Hylia directed warriors and fishermen bearing barrel upon barrel of the most rare delicacies arrived. Nor were the residents of Hyrule City negligent in appearing for the festival, and nigh on every citizen from street urchins to tutors to nobility made an appearance of some kind. All wanted to see just how magnificent Gustavus had directed this celebration to be.

It exceeded everyone's wildest dreams. From just past the gates to the city, through the Market Square, all the way to even the Hyrule Castle Gates themselves, the streets were hung with a rainbow of colors. Flowers sprang from hanging vines as if they couldn't wait to shower the world in brightness. Banners and placards of all kinds were draped from windows and balconies, displaying noble house seals and merchant emblems and celebratory exclamations. Figurines had been cast or modeled by the most skilled artisans, and gilded wooden and stone and clay statues of terrifying monsters and heroic knights greeted each party goer as they gazed in wonder about them. The occasional vendor, too, and minstrel had placed themselves strategically to pedal their wares and their songs, and none were of poor quality.

But nothing compared to the Market Square. There, planners had carefully arranged the stalls and booths of all entertainments, dividing the city center into organized miniature city blocks. Every form of wonder and joyful sight could be found, from competitions of strength, to feats of accuracy, to pubs and eateries, to jewellers and mask makers and booksellers. Musicians wandered the aisles, strumming lutes and harps and belting out well known choruses about days of legend long past. Soldiers patrolled the streets, but to a one, all seemed just as excited as those around them. All were in high spirits.

In the center of the Market Square sat a fountain, carved with the ancient Hyrulian Royal Crest and modeled as though fairies twirled about it. The water that bubbled from its top danced its way across its face to the pool at the bottom. Set up about it was a dais, a study platform of treated oak, covered in silks and flowers and bright braziers. Clearly, it would be the center of the celebration later, but for now, Tamrin the Old, Royal Teller, was weaving a tale of danger and enchantment and monsters and daring deeds to a group of enraptured young ones.

"Seven Sages, there were! Seven, given their authority by the Goddesses themselves! They were to battle evil and subdue it! And they could!

"But they didn't know that they were the Sages! They lived their lives in their own ways!" Old Tamrin paused, wrinkled fingers splayed out in all directions. A twinkle appeared in his eye. "Someone needed to tell them!"

"Who!?" A small voice cried out from the crowd, unable to contain the question any longer. "Who was it!?"

Tamrin scoffed, straightening and pulling at his multicolored, striped jacket. On anyone else, one might be tempted to call what he wore a jester's outfit, but on old Tamrin, it somehow bore a majesty and veneration that turned its ridiculous nature to one of aw and wonder.

"Who? Who, do you ask, child? Why, it was no mere peddler. No lonesome farmer for the likes of the Goddesses! No irksome fisherman, salty and bitter! No!" The expression of mock severity melted from his face, and he smiled warmly. "It was a child. A babe of the woods. It's why we venerate Green, you know. It's the Hero's colors.

"Yes, the Hero. A mere child, chosen to awaken the Sages so they could defeat the greatest evil Hyrule or even Hylia had ever seen."

And so he carried on, the children forgetting even their rumbling stomachs in their interest. From the sides, Hyrulian soldiers laughed, remembering their own childhoods, grateful that a new generation could see such peace, as well.

∆∆∆​

"We're nearing the noon bell, Captain Link."

Dexton paused his nervous pacing, glancing back into the room behind. The captain was still within, and he stood before a mirror. He eyed his uniform critically, tugging at it as he tried to erase imagined wrinkles. The deep green showed little in the way of imperfection, what fabric showed past the breastplate and spaulders, and it matched well the gilded silver of the steel armor. He was bareheaded, having foregone a helmet for the ceremony of the celebration, and his brow was furrowed in concern.

"I know," Link answered lamely. Clicking his teeth, he turned to face his friend, spreading his arms as he did so. "Well? Do you think the Princess will still like me?"

The hint of dryness didn't pass by Dex unheeded. Laughing openly, he pulled his mentor into the hallway.

"C'mon, old man. You couldn't get rid of the Princess if Dragmire himself returned and reduced the castle to boulders." Slinging his arm about Link's shoulders, carefully avoiding the back-slung sword his captain carried. "Besides, everyone will be too busy watching your wife and son to pay attention to all old man like you."

The corner of Link's mouth turned up in a smile, and he dug a solid but soft elbow into Dexton's sternum.

"Watch your openings, kid," he whispered, chuckling, before slinging an arm around the taller man's waist. Together, the went to find the Princess Zelda and young Gus, heir to the Hyrulian throne.

∆∆∆​

So we begin! The Centennial Celebration has started! Feel free to place your character anywhere within the City itself (the Castle is off limits)! Partake in the festivities, put on a performance, sulk in a corner, whatever you think your character would be doing! If you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the Discord channel! Just make sure you tag me so I see them. Thanks! I'm looking forward to this RP!

@kookyboy9 @Kjbivins @Rouge Rogue @Elle Joyner @DracoGale4 @Verran @Orikanyo @KatSea

 

[Verran]

Why flowers? It was the one thing Aedris pondered as he sat upon the main thoroughfare from the city gates, flung wide open for all the traffic. Thatch-golden hair that rested in an unruly, not to mention dirty, mess upon his head while hawk grey eyes peered intently at his surroundings and the flowers. While both indicated life and energy, the rest of him could hardly be considered such. Sallow, growing yellowy-green, skin with the sunken features crying out to a diet that was hardly heartening, let alone filling, splotched and plotched across his whole body. As if to failing disguise this, the young hylian wore raggedly and, if lucky, patched pants and tunic of equal mismatch shades of brown and grey that, despite looking and smelling horrendous, made his hair shine out above it all as a sunburst upon a cloud-ridden day. In the distance, he could vaguely make out the hubbub going on in the market square. Sadly, unless someone appeared with clothes that could almost appear respectable upon his pale, if it could even be called that, body, there was no way he'd be allowed in. One look from the guards at one of the large entrances told him that much. The good king wanted Hyrule City at its prettiest and that meant hiding whatever didn't fit that vision underneath the rug. Certainly, there were many other ways into the market square, but it wouldn't be worth it to marvel at the pretty decorations while trying to avoid the attention of guards. Or anyone really. Not that Aedris felt resentful. After all, the festival wasn't so much a time celebration, but of work. People coming to the city from all across the lands for such a momentous occasion meant so many more to beg a rupee from. He had no skill of a storyteller to entertain crowds. Nor any means of entertainment, let alone having the ability to hire a horde of little pick-pockets to make a tidy sum. So he sat with the closest thing to an uncle or grandfather he had, Ritcha, and his bowl to beg for rupees. Which lead him to his current predicament.

Certainly, many people had passed and, while a good number had that trained eye to simple slide over the pair in that awkward manner where they wanted to help but felt that their efforts were better set to charity or felt they couldn't help. Or simply glared at them in disgust, which they must have felt it put him rightly in his place. That all said, there was an excellent of scattering of individuals that left...offerings was almost the best word for it. Ritcha had a growing bush of green rupees speckled with blue flowers of matching rupees and the rare berry of a red rupee that Aedris knew he'd be more than willing to share with the young man if it were needed. Aedris, on the other hand, had flowers. In fact, his bowl had gradually overflowed with flowers. And that had not stopped them from coming. Even now, a young man passed, couldn't have been older than Aedris himself, holding a rather outrageously sized bouquet of flowers. Likely for some lady friend. When he caught Aedris's eye, he stopped, considered a moment, before plucking out a massive safflina from the bouquet and dropped it atop the pile. Ritcha roared with laughter every time it happened and this time was no different.

"Why, lad," he guffawed, "soon enough, ye'll be able to open a flower shop and bring sweet aromas to all the land!"

Aedris chuckled, but made no further reply. A flower shop? Well, that's not a bad idea either, he thought and added it to the growing list of ideas as to what to do with his life. He hoped he saw Leia today for, with his only other friend here already, Aedris had a secret to tell. The young hylian had confirmed it beyond all shadows of doubt in his mind and even felt he could put the ability on display today if someone put him to the task. It was his ticket out of here. Or, at least, life on the streets. Although he didn't doubt that he would have to leave Hyrule City as well. Not least because of Hox. If the brute ever caught wind of his ability to abandon poverty, there'd be no end of it. Not while he was alive, anyway.

Whenever he thought of leaving, his eyes were inexorably drawn to the direction of Hyrule Castle. Somewhere within its dungeons, Aedris's Mother lay imprisoned. For two more years as he prayed every night that exposure, neglect, nor abuse took her soul to the Goddesses' embrace. There was little he could do about it and nothing to do that wasn't the brink of insanity or pointlessness to try. Still, regardless of what happened in these next few weeks, Aedris had long since sworn to himself that he'd either get his Mother out or, at least, be there when she was released. Ready to free her from the shackles of poverty that she'd known all her life.

"Course, I knew ye'd be gettin' flowers, Aedris," Ritcha elderly gravel broke into the young man's thought.

"Oh, how'd you figure? No, wait. Let me guess. Nayru our benefactor of wisdom."

"No, you lunk!" he laughed, "it was Farore, our green maiden and Goddess supreme in courage who told me."

"When did she come about to give you such a tidbit that you only decided to share now?"

"Last night, a'course! She came to me in a dream, wreathed in forest green silks. Taking her adult form, you see. Made me wish that she'd..."

"Ritcha!"

"Ah right. Keep forgetting that your Mother's boy. Anyway, she appeared a beauty of green hair and silks. Pressing a flower into my reverent hand, she whispered with beauty and majesty of a Deku orchestra, but with the soft subtlety of a falling petal, 'upon your right, flowers bloom.' An' here you are, blooming flowers all over."

As ever, Aedris was never sure how serious to take Ritcha's possibly prophetical ramblings. While it was well agreed that the Goddesses cared for the world they made, the degree and manifestation was often in question. However, there wasn't any reason to question them overmuch, especially given the old man's uncanny accuracy. So Aedris gave his typical response as he clapped his hands in brief prayer and said, "well if it is the word of one of the Goddesses, who am I to doubt it."

The two fell into a traditional, amicable silence, punctuated by short begs for alms and the occasional chink of rupees landing upon Ritcha's pile. The flowers that were added to Aedris's made no sound. For the life of him, he could barely remember how he started getting them. Only that a girl had appeared from the crowd a few minutes after the gates had opened, Ritcha and Aedris having been long in place, and dropping a pair of flowers within his bowl. Thinking it cute, the young man had simply given his thanks to the girl as she scampered off into the crowd. Presumably to her parents. But as the third, fourth, and fifth flower had been added and not a single rupee, a superstition entered his mind that the wee lass had somehow primed the whole affair with her initial two flowers. How, he couldn't say, but the feeling deemed to nag at him. He couldn't even remember what flowers she'd given him as, by the time he thought to look, they'd long been buried under dozens of blossoms. Although, for all he knew, it was nothing but a strange twist of fate. All the same, not a single rupee. And why flowers? Why not food or even a change of clothes? Why flowers?

So Aedris sat and pondered as he pool of flowers gradually grew and grew. And the day had only just begun.

 

[Orikanyo]

"Why thank you young man, here, in return for your kind favor." the elderly miser of a woman flashed a greedy grin, knowing full well the price of the objects she was trading. Leek however, didn't care, the shining stones for the cucoo egg, thats what he was after. Leek had followed his master to the city for this festival. The closest thing to a rest he had gotten since he joined up with the old man in the woods. He was hopeing to have some form of help navigating this town but.. As soon as he got here.. His master somewhat...

Disappeared...

Damn old man...

Leaving him with naught but a note that read "Enjoy yourself." which was the closest thing to a shrug off he could expect.

Now, he was indeed a red blooded young man, and there was many things he'd like to see and do, maybe traverse one of those "massage parlors" he had heard his friends talk about way back when he was a lad. The type of places only teen age young men dream of going to.. And speak about in hushed whispers and half jokes. He was a grown man afterall! He could go to those places!

...Right...?

Well.. he didn't want to go there and have his face known...

Plus he was beginning to get antsy about his eyes with all these people around. he had dyed his hair blond to make it easier to hide his heritage but...

He had little to no money...

Perhaps that was a test from his master as well?

So he thought, why not do some odd jobs for rupees? Momma didn't raise no quitter after all!

So he did a job moving some crates, got a empty bottle, which he then helped the local farmer to get that bottle filled with milk, then gave the bottle of milk to a poor kid trying to feed their kitten getting a mop in return, he had then wandered into the church where he found a young monk with a broken mop, which he then traded for a extra bucket, the bucket had managed to get him a rabbit, which in turn was traded for a slightly different color rabbit the butcher found.

This rabbit however had a collar and was a pet, so he returned the rabbit to the owner and got this wierd glass-like piece of heart? Which he quickly found a trade for in the bar, a goron gave him those shiny stones.

Which lead him back to the present. Where he had now gone to the mask seller. "Hellooooo young man. Here to trade?" the eerily smiling man's voice was like nails on a chalk board, small wonder his stall was given a wide birth by most folks. "I was watching you know, running around town, exchanging things for other things. It was a eventuality you would make your way to me, with exactly what I need." the mask salesman's long finger pointed to the egg Leek was carrying.

"An egg for a mask, a fine trade don't you think?"

It was, in fact a fine trade... But... Man this guy freaked him out.. best be done with it.

With the egg given, with utmost caution not to tough the man during the transaction, he found himself the new owner of...

... What... Was this mask..?

He shrugged and put it on, not wanting to bother with the details. he was now sufficiently covered, and ready to at least start talking to people.

Mask

 

[Elle Joyner]

Leia
TAGS || @Red Thunder , @Verran ​

---

The Hollows

"Hey, Pretty Lady... You got a book there about how to win the hand of a fair maiden at a festival?"

Averting her eyes from the pile of dog-earred tomes in front of her, Leia raised a brow at the man on the other side of her cart. He was a tall gentleman, not to his credit, his appearance gangling and drawn, like someone who had lived too long on the value of his mother's chest, and not nearly long enough on hearty meats and vegetables. His hair was a startling ginger red, patches of curls peeling away from his forehead, putting his age somewhere in the mid-thirties to early forties, suggesting that that same mother to whom he'd clung a bit too long had also put upon him the importance of settling into a union, sooner, rather than later. His eyes were a fair shade of green, and might have been pleasant to look at, were they not currently fixated on her own chest with a hungry sort of suggestiveness that made Leia shudder with disdain. The reedy sound of his voice, which somehow seemed to whistle through his extravagantly wide nostrils, rather than his mouth, hovered somewhere in her ears akin to the sound of branches scraping a glass window, or the ceaselessly irritating hum of flies.

Eye twitching just ever so slightly, she set down her tome and swinging her legs about, stared up at him with fixed indifference, "These books are relating to history or science. Should a book exist to the caliber of what you seek, I can assure you, with abject relief and satisfaction I neither own nor am I selling it. Furthermore, if aesthetic value is all you're after, I'd recommend this particular book..." Reaching for a book, she held it out to the man, the title stitched across the blue leather binding in a silver text that read 'Identifying and Treating Disorders of the Eye, Ears and Throat', "For I am obviously unremarkable and ordinary in my physicality, suggesting you've something wrong with your vision. That, or you have either had far too much to drink, startling a thought this early in the day. Also possible that you were dared by a rather unkind friend who finds humor in your discomfort. There is, of course, the rather insulting suggestion that you've no other prospects, but to your credit, I choose to believe that you'd possess at least a shred of self respect and dignity, and would choose to woo someone to whom you've actually spoken before. If not and of these matters, well, sir... there's no book I can offer you, but I am not without pity for the ignorant and can therefore offer this. I have eyes. Perhaps next time you attempt to enchant a 'fair maiden', as you say, you might find your attention trained there, instead."

Dumbstruck, the man stared, wide-eyed and incidentally, a little frightened, before his cheeks flushed and he sank back on his heels, "...G-good day, madam." He stated plainly, clearing his throat before he turned to leave.

"Do you want the book??" Leia called, and without mistakenly, the man's pace quickened as he faded back into the crowd.

Eyes rolling, Leia rose from her seat, "Viola, dear, I'm going to take a walk. Watch the books and be mindful of anyone looking for a wife."

Her assistant, a petite blonde girl of perhaps fifteen or so, stared with bright eyes in mixed confusion and an expression that suggested she was all too use to said confusion. But tapping the counter with her hand, she forced out a smile and a nod, "Aye, Miss Itash! Happy walkin'!"

As she left behind the rowdy crowd circulating the market square, Leia pinched the bridge of her nose and inhaled deeply. The last few weeks, leading up to the festival should have been a source of excitement. It was, in truth, a thrilling affair, filled with immeasurably new and magnificent discoveries. A moment in history that would fill books and letters and fuel stories for years to come. For Leia, however, the past few weeks had been sullied by the nagging sense of wrongness that haunted her thoughts, driving fear into her mind with unequivocal and unrelenting fury. Aedris wasn't being honest with her. She'd known for a while, now, but it was never more apparent... Whatever condition plagued him, and whatever left his body in the state of constant degradation, he was not getting better. And she had no doubt in her mind it would kill him. Yet her fought her at every turn whenever she would offer him a place to stay - a roof overhead. And for the longest time she'd wondered what could possibly drive a man to deny himself safety and security... For a long time, she had wondered.

And now she was sure she knew.

He was afraid of someone. Someone within the slum structure. And with only a little digging, and one particularly brave excursion into the city, Leia had a name.

And whatever Aedris feared, she was all the more afraid of what might happen, should she continue to leave him on the streets. They would need to talk. And soon...

She had made herself promise (though in truth her promises as of late had been... less than stalwart), however, that it would not come to pass during the festival. Instead, wandering the crowd, Leia searched for the familiar scruff of dirty blonde and sallow skin - the mismatched robe that stuck out in the sea of colorful people. Here, worlds were combined in ways they might never otherwise be, but Aedris, she had no doubt, would be found where his lot were otherwise more apt to huddle... and sure enough, as she came to the edge of one of the cities central gates she spotted him, seated next to another of his beggar kin, two jars set before them. One, oddly enough, was spilling out flowers of every size, shape and color imaginable.

Approaching the pair, Leia stopped a little ways from Aedris and with a smile, and a nod to his companion, she cupped her hands behind her back, "If I'd have known flowers were the currency you were collecting today, I could have brought you a magnificent sampling. But I'm so certain I understand the choice... Are you hoping to trade them?"

 

[DekuNightFury]

"Roscoe! Slow down, the city isn't going anywhere."

"Oh I can't help it, Cyril! It's so big! Can you imagine what they must contain inside? And look at all these visitors! They must come from all across Hyrule. Oh look! I think I see the Gerudo and...is that a Zora over there?"

"Of course they came from all across Hyrule." The older Rito spoke with impatience of one who's had to deal with a pestering child for the entire length of the journey, his wing grabbing hold of the strap of Roscoe's bag to pull him back so that he didn't go chasing after the poor unsuspecting travelers who were innocently minding their own business. "The invitation was sent out far and wide across the land. It would be weird if there weren't many visitors from so far. Now stick with the family."

A heavy sigh passed Roscoe's beak but he slowed down and walked beside his older brother and father, though his eyes never left the magnificence of Hyrule city before them, the castle like a mountain that filled the sky the closer they drew to the front gate. He could see visitors disappearing through the gates and he was eager to be among them, to finally see what could be beyond the gate walls, his mind recalling every story he ever heard pertaining to Hyrule castle and its beautiful Princess Zelda and her Champion Hero. But these were stories from so long ago, it was hard to tell what was truth and what was pure myth, yet Roscoe believed that these stories were true. At least somewhat. There were still remnants of their origin, echoes of the past that they could see today, such as the favored tradition of the royal family naming their princesses Zelda. But they were so far and in between that the stories have become only that to most people: stories.

"Do you think we'll see Princess Zelda?" He asked his brother though his eyes remained on the castle, the green orbs sparkling with awe and wonder as though he could see the Princess through one of the windows.

"Probably," Cyril answered more reasonably. "It is a big celebration, after all. I imagine the princess will be attending it and perhaps even have some sort of role. But as for us seeing her... Well, there are so many people, we might not be able-"

"Roscoe," their father interrupted as he hefted the cart he was pushing over a bump in the road, its contents rattling from the disturbance before he was able to straighten it, "I'm sure you will have a wonderful time regardless if you see the princess or not. Just look at this." He gestured with his wing around them. "There's going to be a lot to do and plenty to see. Besides, haven't you seen enough on your travels?"

Indeed, Roscoe had been to many places and seen many things on his travels. He had been on one of his journeys when he received the letter from his father informing him to return home at once. Afraid that there was trouble, Roscoe hurried home just as the letter instructed, though he was relieved to find that there was no trouble after all. No, instead, he came to the knowledge of the invitation of the celebration going on at Hyrule Castle. Roscoe couldn't believe it! He had yet to ever go to Hyrule Castle, taking his ventures to further and smaller locations, though he had made a mental note to visit the castle someday. That day came faster than he realized. His father wanted him home immediately because he wanted his youngest son to attend. He was, after all, the best archer the village had.

Of course, Roscoe couldn't say no.

So here he was, walking beside his father and brother. Their father decided to set up their own stall and sell their craftsmanship to any who may be interested. The rest of their family stayed behind in Skye village to tend to the shop. Other Rito from their village joined in on the journey to the celebration as well such as other very talented archers as well as musicians and other talents they may have. The Rito took every chance they could get to venture from their homes and experience something new so this was no exception. They were all excited to attend this celebration and showcase some of their skills and contribute somehow to show just how wonderful their village is. Roscoe, though he flourished in showing off his amazing archery skills, was here for different reasons. For the experience itself.

He turned on his heel and began to walk backward so that he may look at his father as he spoke. "I could never see enough. There is so much in the world and you could never experience the same thing twice. There's still much I have yet to see and-"

"Look ou-" his brother interrupted as he reached out for Roscoe, but it was already too late.

Roscoe had underestimated how close they were to the gate. He bumped into someone which caused him to stumble, his feet kicking something over as his wings flailed out to try to catch himself, but luckily his brother was there to grab hold of him and steady him before he could fall flat on his face. When Roscoe looked, he saw that he had bumped into a Hylian, a female.

"Oh! I'm so sorry!" He cried, quickly pulling away from his brother and reached out to help the poor girl from the ground. "I didn't see you! I wasn't paying..."

It was then that he noticed something else: a jar knocked over with flowers scattered all about. "Oh dear," he knelt down and uprighted the jar before he began to delicately pick up the flowers to put them back in the jar.

"You're a terrible mess, you know that?" His brother scolded as he knelt to begin helping in picking up the flowers.

"Pardon me, miss," their father spoke to the Hylian whom had so unceremoniously been shoved, "you must excuse my son. He meant no harm. If you ever feel the need, stop by my shop inside and I will more than happily compensate you for the trouble. Whatever you need."

Roscoe was mortified with himself. As he was putting the flowers back, he noticed the other jar, this one filled with rupees. He lifted his eyes to see the man huddled there. It was only then that he noticed the other man there as well. He paused for a moment before realization began to dawn on him.

"Oh!" He cried out suddenly. "Beggars!"

His brother smacked him with his wing. "Don't be rude." Then, quieter, "And don't stare at them."

He began to understand the reason for the jars. But why flowers? He quickly began to pat down his pockets. He had no flowers... What a horrendous way to begin apologizing! He made a terrible mess and had no way to compensate for it.

"Uh..." He began awkwardly, then getting an idea, he plucked out one of his feathers. "Here you go." He placed it carefully with the flowers. "I'm so sorry for the mess I've caused." It was no flower but hopefully, it would make a pretty addition to go with whatever bouquet this man was making, wouldn't it?

"Roscoe!" His brother hissed quietly at him as he dragged him up to his feet. "Ignore him," he spoke more loudly to the others with a smile as he tried not to look embarrassed, "he's just very excited. Sorry for the mess." Then he was forcibly shoving Roscoe quickly along with their father to get through the gates.

"I look forward to your bouquet when it's finished!" Roscoe called back over his brother's shoulder before they disappeared inside.

 

[Kjbivins]

"Fish...I've got fish for sale. Bugs too...if anyone wants bugs...good for potions." Abokk called out half-heartedly. His stall was a minnow in a sea filled with whales. Merchants from all over the land we're here and they were vastly more experienced than Abokk and his meager collection of mostly fresh fish. One large zora next to him had several gyorg hanged up by their tails and was offering a soup made from their fins. To the left of Abokk was a Business Scrub selling giant exotic insects from the deepest parts of the swamps and forests no Hylian had ever visited before (except for maybe Link).

Abokk sighed. He had very little interest in being a merchant but he could always use rupees and he had plenty of specimens in his collection that he could sell. He had hoped to set up shop earlier before all the weather merchants arrived, but his heavy backpack and weak flying skill prevent that from happening. All Abokk could do now was mentally kick himself for his life mistakes. A few people passed his miniature stall, but only to goal at his head crest, never to but anything. That was until a white feathered rito with a yellow beak approached him.

"Abokk, is that you?" He called out. "It's me...Gall."

Abokk froze for a moment as he remembered that day. "It's been a long time Gall," he said with the same enthusiasm as he did when he was trying to sell his critters.

Gall stood there awkwardly avoiding direct eye contact with Abokk. He noticed Gall had a quiver strapped around him. "I see you've become an archer."

"I've actually entered the archer tournament but I think I'll be lucky to even place. There's this one guy named Roscoe who I've heard is really good. But I've been training hard ever since that day...I've always hated myself for leaving. " Gall went quiet again. "And what have you been up too Abokk?"

"Walking."

Gall laughed at this before noticing the dead expression on Abokk's face. "Oh...your serious. I'm sorry...about laughing...that was impolite of it."

"Don't worry about it," Abokk said. "I've gotten to see the world from a viewpoint most ritos would miss. I've learned so much and I've gotten a lot stronger. Now, do you want to buy something?"

"Yeah, you got anything that tastes good?"

"I've got a smoked Faron eel," Abokk said pulling out the lengthy fish. He charged 15 rupees for it and it was the first money he made all day.

As Gall left with the eel he said "You should come watch the tournament. The old gang is there and Sani was just talking about you the other day."

"Maybe. It was good seeing you again Gall". The two waved goodbye and Abokk watched his old friend walk to another part of the city. Once again he was alone with his stall. Time went by and Abokk hadn't made any more rupees. He was about to back up and leave the crowded city when a sparkling glimmer shot past his eyes. He looked around and managed to spot the source of the glow. It was a dazzling golden Ladybug. Seeing as he wasn't getting any business and golden bugs were extremely rare these days, Abokk put a "Closed" sign on his stall and chased after the little beetle.

He soon was lead into a dark alley far away from the main celebration, but that didn't matter, because he was going to catch this little insect. He could see the golden triforce pattern on its outer wings. The bug was getting tired and was landing to rest more often. Abokk got his bug net out and was ready to catch it as it rested on the stone ground. He approached it cautiously and raised the net slowly. One wrong move and he could crush one of the rarest insects in the world. Right as he raised the net to strike he felt a sharp pain on the back of his head and he fell hard to the ground.

"Saw dis freak at da wit da other merchants. Take him for all he's worth," he heard a voice call out. Several hylians and hyrulians surrounded him with clubs and daggers.

"Leave," Abokk said coldly. "I left all my money in the stall and I'm really not in the mood for this." Abokk imagined forked tongues sliding out from the mouths of these thugs. It filled him with rage and fear.

"What ya gonna do freak? Wack us with that bug net? You like catching bugs like a little kid?" One of the hyrulian's said mockingly. He then lifted a foot and before Abokk could say anything, he brought the foot down and crushed the golden ladybug.

Abokk said nothing as he pulled out his previously hidden sword. Several of the thugs backed off. One of them charged at Abokk. Abokk swung his sword at the thug's club, kicking it out of his hands. As the thief processed what and just happened, Abokked pushed him square in the nose. Two then tried to surround Abokk. He waited for them to get closer before jumping in the air and kicking them both in the chest. They feel to the ground clenching their stomachs which had been lightly cut up from Abokk's talons. A few more tried to attack Abokk only to receive cuts, broken teeth, noses, and a few bones.

"Damn freak!" One of the goons said as he struggled to get back on his feet.

"AMATEURS!" a gruff voice yelled. Walking into the alley was a large grey goron with a beard that looked like a collection of stalactites. "LET ME SHOW YA HOW TO REALLY FIGHT!"

Abokk swung his sword at the goron only for him to grab it in his giant hands. Abokk then tried to kick the giant only to hurt his own toes as the goron's skin was as hard as stone. "I thought all goron's were friendly?" Abokk said.

"I THOUGHT ALL RITOS COULD FLY!" The goron then punched Abokk in the chest sending him sparkling to the ground in pain. "YOU'RE A DECENT FIGHTER. I'M GONNA ENJOY BREAKING YA!"

"Gozu we gotta leave! Someone's coming!" One of the injured Hylian goons called out as he pocked his head outside the alley.

"YA GOT LUCKY BIRD!" The goron said as he curled up into a ball and rolled away. Abokk laid on the ground still clenching his chest and struggling to breathe. He turned to were the golden ladybug once was and felt his heart sink as saw its splattered remains. He would wait here to recover for a bit before he could walk away from this mess. He seemed to be good at walking away from problems rather than resolve them.

 

[kookyboy9]

Adam Lyncrest

Location: Hyrule City - Castle Town
Date: Unkown

Interactions:

Adam was elated. He had managed to use his appointment at the tailor's the previous day to evade spending the day following his father from meeting to meeting. For whatever reason, the man seemed to think that the festival was a perfect opportunity to make new trade deals and engage in political maneuvering. It was a festival for crying out loud! Why couldn't he just enjoy wandering the streets like a normal person? The activity was certainly keeping Adam more than happy. The brilliant, dancing colors of the festival going on around him both awed and amazed the young man. He'd hardly ever been out of libraries or schools in the last dozen years, except for the once his father had pulled him home to attend his sister's wedding. Speaking of...

Crap. He'd forgotten his gloves in his haste to get out before anyone questioned him any further. Although, that did explain why he'd been receiving so many more stares than normal as the morning went on. The burn on the back of his hand certainly did attract attention. He'd have to make sure he grabbed them when he returned to his room later that day.

He hid his hand in his pocket, whistling a merry tune as he walked through the streets, keeping an eye on what was happening around him. And happen things did. Merrymakers traveled in dense clusters, often with drinks or food items in hand. Bizarre and exotic foods were everywhere. To his left, a goron couple was chewing on some sort of rock, while to his right, a tiny deku shrub had some sort of bizarre insect on a stick. Directly ahead, someone was walking away from a stall with an eel of all things.

Eventually, however, he arrived at his destination. He pushed the door open, revealing the tailor's shop once more. The receptionist wasn't here today, but the tailor was sitting at the desk, reading. Apparently it was a slow day for him today. No surprise, considering that most of his jobs would've needed to be completed by today. Adam stepped up to the desk, clearing his throat. "Excuse me."

The tailor looked up from his book and gave Adam a smile. "Ah. Mister Lyncrest. Here to pick up your clothing?"

"Yep! Figured you'd be closing early today and that I should try to get here early as well."

"Good guess. We were planning on closing at noon today."

Thank goodness Adam hadn't overslept this morning. That would've been a disaster. "Definitely a good thing I came early, then!"

The tailor chuckled at that. "Wait just a moment and I'll retrieve your clothing." He stood up, then moved into the back room. As he went back to retrieve the garments, Adam took a look around the establishment. The place was a very nice shop. Master Haley had decorated the store with various bits and baubles of colorful clothing, with smaller items such as hats or gloves scattered around the shop. The front desk was well-maintained and neat, with a tastefully chosen chair for whoever was working receptions to sit at.

A few moments later, the tailor came back out of the back room, a bundle of clothing in hand. He set them down on the counter, then flipped through his ledger. "Everything appears to be in order. Have a nice festival!"

Adam glanced down at the clothing, then smiled at the tailor. "Thank you! The same to you!" He grabbed the bundle of clothing, then went over to the door. He stepped outside with a spring in his step, a smile upon his face, and a song in his heart. He had managed to sneak out to enjoy the festival, after all!

 

[KatSea]

Mau was homesick, there was no doubt about it. Despite the stream he had floated along the day before, soaking the moisture into his skin and bobbing with the tide, he still felt parched and weary. He hadn't seen his wife and children in nearly a week or so now. His adventure, while worth the trip to gather everything Gimili could have ever wanted or needed, was still tiring on Mau's older bones. It was certainly enjoyable to journey along familiar paths that he had not crossed for years on end but still...He wished he had tugged his family along for such a trip, but he knew this was meant to be a swift endeavor. His wife, Tuli, was busy hunting and gathering the appropriate food for the celebration, Gimili and her sisters were working on making the appropriate wedding armor and dresses...It was a mad dash to get everything complete on time. Mau knew he would need to do this at least two more times in his life and his eyes rolled into the back of his head at the thought. That and if Tuli ever wanted another child...even though he figured they had more than enough at the moment (as much as he loved each and every one of them.) Four was a lot of tadpoles.

Regardless, Mau knew that this time would eventually come and he took the task with welcoming hands. Flowers and other various materials such as something old and something blue (teal if his daughter was being very specific.). Flowers were easy enough to come by, Mau had a woven basket that hung from the crook of his elbow. Every so often he'd come upon a wild flower, occasionally he'd try and find a silent princess and tuck it in safely. Aware that they would wilt, he would occasionally place his basket down and attempt to retain their glorious states. His fingers would grow cold with each light use of his magic, but it was nothing in comparison to the rolling waves of ftost and intensity that would come when healing a wound. How Tuli practiced her craft without complain was lost upon Mau. His fingers faded into a light purple, a stark contrast to the blue hue that normally coated his skin.

The affect never lasted long, particularly when he managed his time between each management. He may not have had the brightest brain in the skull but he at least could understand a basic schedule. Regardless of the light pins and pains that coursed through his fingertips, the procedure was well worth it, and his bouquet was as bright and cheery as the day he had picked them. He prayed to Hylia that they would at least maintain their turgid forms until he returned to the Lake. Worse came to worse he could always buy a bouquet and see if he could find someone to enchant them...It was times like these he wished he could have been a full on magician, being able to solve problems with a snap of his fingers. You know, fix the little bumps in his brain, make his tadpole go to sleep before sundown, make his belly more muscular than round.

Shaking the fantasies from his massive head, he found himself wandering on the path to a celebration he had completely forgotten was going to take place. Tuli may have mentioned it in a previous conversation. He couldn't recall if she said to absolutely go by it and enjoy the festivities...or to avoid it entirely so he could get home on time. Knowing Tuli it was a fifty fifty chance depending on the day of the week...But it seemed so lively and festive and colorful that he found himself lumbering up the road, peeking past a herd of Rito.

I wonder if that little one still flies by every once in a while...beautiful creatures. I don't know how they are so vibrant but so skittish yet so nimble. I bet most of them don't have big bellies...Less of them to love, and that's sort of sad.

He scooted past the family, surprisingly swift for the sloth that he was. His eyes darted in wonder, venders and various folk of all walks of life. Beautiful Gerudo women and their festive attire, grand and hearty Gorons with stoney backs and boisterous laughter, Rito of vibrant colors and silky feathers... Mau thought he had left the land of the living and was welcomed into the goddess' loving hands.

Maybe Tuli did say to avoid the celebration...but...There are things I can get here. Spices for the meat for the celebration, flowers and necklaces for the bride. A teal waist cloth to make Gimili feel that much closer to the lake she thrives in. I just wish she could see how beautiful Hyrule looks today... I suppose this'll just be another story to include.

Mau delicately mingled amongst the crowd, occasionally plucking smaller flowers from his basket that were of no value to him and sticking them onto stranger's heads or shoulders. He figured it was more than friendly, and it was a good way to lighten his load.

It wasn't too difficult during his sauntering to find a vendor that appealed to him, a colorful Hylian selling colorful bouquets. The zora bit his lip, finding his hand hooked at the belt at his waist. He...did not have an incredible amount of rupees. Any amount he did bring with him was meant to be used as an emergency and...this could not be classified as such. He gave a hearty nod to the man in question, respectfully so, before peeking through the crowd and finding something that may have been worth more of his own money.

He had been gone for almost a week at this point and had no quick way to communicate with his family that he hadn't been robbed and plopped into a ditch somewhere. He was easily capable of defending himself, but Tuli was...aggressive with the idea. Anyone touched her husband and they wouldn't have a throat the next day. Or eyes. Or tails. Or feathers. She'd probably make a nice little bone necklace too- ...Beside the point, Mau did not want her to fret her pretty little head about it, and this seemed to be a good way to deliver the message that no such violence was necessary. Mailmen! Beautiful Rito with carrier bags strapped around their torsos. Gently pushing past a few of the celebrators, he placed his basket down on the ground, right beside his foot. If anyone rustled it, he would feel it. He didn't want some hooligan scampering along and stealing all of his hard work that painted his fingertips purple.

"Uh, how much for a letter to be delivered to Lake Hylia?" He questioned, voice light and cheery. A rito, tall for his species but still resting just beneath Mau's hearty neck. The man gave Mau a light shrug, sliding parchment and a quill in his direction. The starting price wasn't horrible. It was most certainly crippling to Mau's supply of rupees, but in fairness, it was more than reasonable for what Mau was asking of them. He brought his money pouch up to the desk, sliding over the necessary amount, before finishing his letter and sliding it in their direction as well. It was fairly simple. A couple of I love yous and when he should be expected back home. Hopefully he wouldn't be home before the letter, but it was a good back up, just in case he got stalled up. He graciously grasped the mans hand in a firm shake, turning from the stand and returning to the festivities around him.

Hm. He felt like he was forgetting something....

Oh well, no time to fret! This was the first time in a long time he got to socialize with people of all races and cultures, and there was no way he was gonna give up that opportunity now.

 

[Red Thunder]

@kookyboy9 @Kjbivins @Rouge Rogue @Elle Joyner @DracoGale4 @Verran @Orikanyo @KatSea

Market Square​

The blonde boy scampered off, apparently delighted with the mask he'd obtained. The mask of a keaton. Good luck for the kid, too, if myth and legend meant anything. Narrow eyes followed the boy's progress with keen interest, shadowed by a wave of blood-red hair. From the moment he'd first laid eyes on young Leek, the man's smile had never faded. Indeed, even as he turned his gaze to the egg he held, his smile deepened. Happy Masks, the sign above his stall read, and he was every bit the salesman for it. To his left, a small fire crackled merrily beneath an iron skillet, itself propped up by metal legs above the heat. Absent-mindedly, the salesman flipped his 'welcome' sign about and drew his shutters. It was time for a late breakfast.

∆∆∆
​

"Welcome to Hyrule City. Enjoy your stay."

It was becoming wearisome. Certainly not everyone required such a greeting? Honestly, did anyone even really hear it? Most just passed on by, with barely a glance at the guards posted at the city's southern gate. Pelwith leaned on his spear, sagging in a somewhat overly dramatic fashion, and most definitely not the picture of professionalism their captain expected. Guards? Against what? They were eye candy, a picture of their country's might in arms, designed to demonstrate to their so-called 'allies' that Hyrule was not to be trifled with. As if anyone would. A century. A full hundred years since the last conflict of any note. A hundred years of unprecedented peace in the entire land. A time of celebration and excitement!

And here he was, guarding a gate against- bad judgment, presumably.

Rymlost clicked his tongue. The older man was the picture of perfect professionalism. And he was Pelwith's partner. Pelwith shot him a glare.

"It's nonsense."

"Keep your words guarded, son," the older man chided through a thick and graying mustache. "We represent the King, and as such-"

"'-we hold the King's reputation upon our shoulders.' I know." The younger man straightened, stretching his back and grousing something fierce. "What for? It's not like there's any reason to. Who's gonna attack us? The Frost Fiend Thieves? Please."

"Nevertheless," Rymlost admonished, bowing his head to a cluster of Gorons rambling up to pass between them, "We represent the security that those who came before fought to secure. We make those who enter feel safe, as well they should feel."

Pelwith only snorted, glancing back into the city as he did. What he wouldn't give to join the festivities, to run from stall to stall, filling his belly with fresh beef and baked bread and perhaps even a bit of mead or ale, arm wrapped around the shoulder of a fine Hyrulian woman, whispering sweet nothings into her ear as he bought a bouquet of flowers for her.

His eye rested on two individuals seated by the road some small distance within the city, not far from where he and his partner now stood. Their clothing was ratted, and they carried a downcast appearance. Beggars? The older one certainly seemed to have made some small profit, his bowl filled with a rainbow of different rupee denominations, while the other... Pelwith stared, forehead knotted. Flowers? Who would give a beggar flowers? To be sure, Hylia for reasons known only to herself did not see fit to shower blessings on her children equally, but that should not mean-

He left his post, ignoring the shouts of frustration and indignation from his senior. It wasn't a long walk toward the pair, and soon he was standing over them. They looked hardly better up close. Indeed, the younger one with the flowers seemed to suffer from some advanced sickness of some form, and Pelwith took an involuntary step back and this observation. Nevertheless, he cleared his throat.

"King Recindus really wants everyone to enjoy the celebration, you know," he offered, a kind smile on his face that he shared with any who might still linger about them. For all his complaint about his own duty, he was very excited to see so many visitors, and the idea that even some few might miss out brought a dull ache to his heart. "There's plenty of free events and shows, if you were worried about that.

"But you shouldn't have to be." Reaching into his own wallet tied to his belt, Pelwith extracted two red rupees and proffered them to the younger man. "I would like to purchase your flowers, please; I have a sweetheart waiting for me after I finish my duty, and she would be very pleased with a bouquet like that."

∆∆∆​

The thunder of the Goron's retreat echoed through the alley, Gozu and his band beating a hasty exit as they fled from terrible and imagined foes. Maybe they might have reconsidered, had they prolonged it a moment more, but of all the things thugs and thieves are best known for, courage is perhaps not one of them. Instead, they fled through side street and alleyway, before finally mingling and mixing with the crowd to lose their pursuers.

Two yellow pigtails topped a white dress, and between was a beaming, illuminating smile. Wide eyes searched the girl's surroundings, up and down each plastered wall, prying into corners as she sought her quarry. And she looked ready for it: a bug net was propped against one shoulder, apparently ready to launch forward in an instant, and her boots, to quite the contrast of her otherwise pristine clothing, were caked in mud.

"Little buuuug. Little golden, beholden buuuug. You flew this way; I saw you. And when Agitha sees a bug, she always gets it."

She was a tiny little thing, full of a tiny little voice, but she spoke with an odd determination. She eased closer to Abokk, apparently blind to his presence there. Suddenly, she gasped before letting the net fall from her shoulder with a whine of disappointment. Only then did her sight fall onto the injured Rito.

"Hey!" She jabbed a finger in his direction. "Did you just squash my special bug?!"

∆∆∆
​

The trumpet sounded, and then another, and then another, until the entirety of the Market Square rumbled with the blast. The Master of Ceremonies stepped onto the central platform, relieving old Tarmin of his storytelling with a deep bow. He was clothed in a robe of deep green, with adornments of red and blue, and in his hat was a gold feather that scattered liquid brilliance about the square. Finally, he turned, with the mighty Hyrulian fountain behind him, and spread his arms wide to the revelers.

"In the auspicious name of Gustavus Recindus, King of Hyrule and your host this day, I welcome you all to Hyrule City!" There was a roar of returned greeting, and not a few calls to bring Tamrin back onstage. The Master ignored them. "I am Crestus, of the House Wolfos, and it is my great honor today to serve as your Master of Ceremonies! I trust that your time thus far has been spent in great enjoyment!"

Further cheers rose in answer. To the right of the podium, a long and thin clearing had been set up. It was designated with ropes of red. Stalls had been set up at one end, with clear delineations on each. On the far side, hay bales had been erected, with targets painted in red on parchment secured on them. The archery alley, for so it was, ran perhaps fifty yards from stall to target, with another fifty yards of open space even beyond that. Crestus gestured to it.

"I daresay that you have as yet enough of your heart left to enjoy a bit of archery, yes? This shall be the first event of the day: the Royal Archery Competition! Any who consider themselves archers of worth may approach the Fountain, that I may take their names!

"Ah, but what is a competition without a reward?" Crestus laughed deeply. "Captain Link, husband to her royal majesty Princess Zelda, has generously donated an artifact of unknown and likely ancient origins that he located in his famed exploits across the lands." Impatient cries of tell us and what is it cut through his speech, and he placed a hand over his heart in appropriately offended fashion. "You wound me, that you should attempt to wrest that secret from me! Yet, I must bend to the will of the people. It is this!"

From behind him, a man of perhaps four or five decades and clothed in deep green stepped forward. His plate armor glinted in the near noonday sun, and a mighty sword hung from his back. He wore a ceremonial expression behind a short, yellow beard, and he was flanked by a dark haired younger man in similar armor. Coming to stop beside Crestus, Captain Link lifted a hand and opened it. Upon it sat a blue, almost egg like, shape. It had a protrusion at one end, and holes dotted its face. Nor was it plain; gems sparkled in the sunlight, as did the golden shape of the Goddesses themselves: the Triforce. As Link stepped back again, Crestus gestured to the crowd.

"Now! Come, come! Register to partake in the competition, if you will! And quickly! At the noon bell, the first flight begins!"

∆∆∆
​

For those of you not directly referenced, feel free to set your characters anywhere within or nearby the market square! The stage is being set for our adventure, and the pieces are moving into place.

 

[Verran]

A grin blossomed across the young man's pondering face as he looked up at his other friend in the wide world. Looking as healthy and hale as ever, Leia was always a welcome sight. "By that," he replied, "I guess it means that flowers are not usually given out as mass handouts as part of a festival."

While it was true that Aedris had lived in Hyrule City all his life, he had scant memories of festivals throughout the years. For one, he was borderline bed-ridden for many of them. History of chronic illness did that to people. Or, well, he guessed that at least. For another, while many of the games, food, and delights of the festivals were free, a solid number came at the pretty cost of rupees. Of which, unsurprisingly, he had little. Of course, if he did start trying to sell the flowers, that might change for the day. Although, it was undoubtedly a wiser course of action to save any rupees he could gather. However, something held him back from the idea of parting with them so easily. Whatever it was exactly lay just beyond the horizon of his thought. An ideal to be grasped later that somehow whispered that selling these particular flowers, trinkets of nature that they may be, was not the proper course of action. Still though, it was fortunate for Leia to show up when she did as now was a good as time as any, though he didn't have much of a clue as to how to go about telling friends that, surprise! Magic!

"Listen, Leia, I've been wanting to tell you something. You and Ritcha, that is. This is him. Next to me. Goddesses this is awkward! Anyway…"

"Is this visage of beauty before my aging eyes the young maiden I've heard so much about?" the old man interjected, springing to his creaky feet, "why, Aedris! Your description, though flattering in painting her soul as benevolent as a great fairy and her mind as keen as the Master Blade, pales in comparison to all I perceive. Dressed in finery that only begins, nay, pales to hold a candle to the wondrous sight before me. My dear, if I may be so bold as to say that a man could search the world thrice over and, despite finding every treasure, not succeed in capturing the gentle jewels that dance within thine eyes."

What? Aedris vaguely thought, utterly flabbergasted. Was this his friend, uncle, and grandfather rolled into one before him? Who, while certainly had not lacked for fine enough speech, often commented that how he had dreamed…well, Aedris didn't much like discussing it as Ritcha knew full well. Yet here he was, singing elegant praise with enough ease that Aedris was sure that the old comrade had done it before. But the old coot wasn't done yet.

"My fairest lady. All I can do to even dare offer in welcoming is this," bending down and scooping up a violet, "please accept this singular adornment for your hair that, while mere drapery, should delight your brilliant face and leave all with half as much sight as speechless or as gibbering as my young land here." With a bow, he proffered the delightful bloom to Leia.

Aedris was indeed speechless, but was almost setting about gathering himself and might have managed it, if it weren't for the sudden imposition of a small flock of Ritos. Clunk and twick went his bowl and, as if launched from a poorly aligned catapult, up shot a good quarter of the flowers. Ritcha, displaying a continued sudden aptitude for grace that now extended beyond words, had swept his own bowl of rupees up and was, with a light step, out of the way a mere split-second before the family, well really just one, came bowling into Leia and the rest had descended to help the matter. Aedris, however, suddenly found himself bedecked with flowers as the launched lot came fluffing down and seemed to land half as much on him as they did in the street were the newly inspired cleaning crew, the as yet unknown Ritos, had set themselves the task of cleaning up the mess before the one who had started the whole sudden affair correctly identified their subset of mortal kind as beggars and, by way of apology, added a dainty feather to the top before the whole lot melded into the various races that made up the thoroughfare.

Aedris blinked. But before he could get a word in edgewise, Ritcha was on the move again. Slipping around, the violet was woven into Leia's hair as an adornment before he sprang, with a jaunty salute at the approaching, kindly guard, towards the gate out of the city. With a parting word, he cried, "fret not my lad! Your tale is well lain before me already! Stay a safe soul and be seeing you!"

With a skip in his gate, the old man who few knew to be Ritcha left the city. Departing far enough that few ever saw the fellow again and most who did would only recall hearing a jaunty tune that seemed to slip from their mind as soon as they tried to summon the memory. Though, whatever the reason, it was certain that his end, if there was one at that, was not an ill one.

That, however, was far flung from the immediate future, let alone the present, as Aedris, dumbfounded at his friend's actions, faced the guard speaking to him. A singular thought bloomed clear of the briar of the events that aptly summed up his internal confusion. What?

Somehow, yet another flower came drifting in from some soul in the throng to land atop the rest.

 

[Elle Joyner]

Leia
TAGS || @Red Thunder , @Verran, @DracoGale4 ​

---

The Hollows

Rather unexpectedly, or perhaps more expected than Leia liked to confess, what was three became several, and in a mere moment's notice, she found herself well acquainted with the hardened packed stone of Hyrule's footpath. Pain splintered only temporarily in her wrists and her backside, dallied away as a softly feathered hand scooped to aid her to her feet again. She opened her mouth to tell the young Rito that it was no worry. She understood the excitement, and of course, was all too well acquainted with an unfortunate lack of coordination at times. But before she could say much at all, he had spirited himself away, leaving a feather in Aedris's bowl and a whirlwind of confusion in Leia's mind.

Then they were three once more, and it was the elder of the two beggars who rose, stealing Leia's attention with profound aptitude for one so advanced in age. The violet was in her hair before she could respond with more than a dumbfounded nod, and as he, too, skipped off towards the palace gate. Fairest Lady... Were all the men in Hyrule stricken with illness of the eyes? Still, there was a coldness for the loss of his company, even for so short a time, and she was sorry, oddly, to see him go.

"Your friend is full of hot air... Fairest nothing..." She remarked with a gossamer and sheepish smile, color leeching into her cheeks at the recollection of what the man had told her. Aedris spoke of her. Often enough that she had made an impression... How incredibly odd that anyone would find her so interesting.

"But I do like him." She continued, eyes still on the gate.

Her gaze then turned to the guard and she smiled brighter, still, "Well... Looks as if you've a rather favorable little bowl there, after all, my dear friend. You would please, sire, allow him to keep the feather, of course? A Rito feather is a rare gift, indeed, and I imagine your lady too delicate for such a bright and tawdry shade of red... Come on then, Aedris. Give the man his flowers and you and I can go enjoy the festival. I'd rather hoped to run into you... It's been most unfortunately dull on my own, today, for so radiant an affair. Say you'll come?"

 

[Orikanyo]

Leek

....An archery competition!?

The man was long winded to point it out, why didn't he just say there was gonna be one!? But... Did Leek know how to use a bow? He remembered long ago helping the hunter back home with one, learning to string and make one... he practiced a little with it but getting your fore arm nearly flayed by rope every draw was enough for him to put down the thing for good...

But... he did kind of remember how to do it.

He can picture it in his mind's eye, so he can definitely do it!

Definitely!

And he wont hurt himself this time! The young man had both of his fists up in determination, that is, until he saw the prize...

...

"..What... is that...?" he questioned, staring at the object from far away. "...Egg? No.. pottery? You can't hold anything in that thing..." he grumbled to himself... But the way the man held it up, looking so important, so cool, so strong...

He had to have it.

It would be his, it has already been decided.

If he can survive the pumpkins he can do this.

If he can survive the old man's training he can do this.

This simple competition shall be nothing but a sure victory!!

It didn't take long for Leek to find the way to the registering desk, he gazed at the fellow writing down names. "Name?" the fellow with a dull look on his face asked in a droll tone. "Leek." spoke the young man, who gave but a small chuckle. "Vegetables aren't allowed to participate..." the man looked up. "...Nor are keaton... Whats your real name, no monikers..." The man's words only proved to anger Leek. "...Leek is my name...." he spoke through gritted teeth, only to get a tsk from the man.

"Fine...Show up at noon or lose your placement. Next!"

Leek grumbled as he walked from the desk, already feeling worse in mood. He only hoped everyone around this place wasn't like that man... or creepy like the mask guy...

 

[Kjbivins]

Abokk had fought off thieves before during his travels. Most were just desperate people who would back off the moment their target stood up to them. Others were organized bullies who liked making easy money. Abokk was good at fighting both types and on the few occasions, he did lose a fight he would just get bruises and at worst a broken bone that could be easily mended with a good potion. Granted this time was scarier than previous times because a Goron was one of the thugs, but Akokk was still in one piece even if he felt swore.

All robbings were scary, especially when he was just starting out. Every time he was robbed he thought about that day. Thankfully he had learned to pick up some fighting skills with other travelers, and he soon learned that the common thug was nothing compared to merciless and savage monsters. Fighting them wasn't as scary anymore, nowadays they just made him angry. The idea that they were purposefully hurting people for enjoyment and possibly traumatizing their victims made Abokk think about how defenseless he was when he was attacked. He had to remind himself that it didn't matter now, they ran away and he was okay.

Right now he was more concerned about the little girl who had just walked into the alleyway. She looked like she had just left a play wearing a colorful dress with fake fairy wings on her back. Appearance-wise she wasn't threatening in the slightest, but the way she asked him if he had squashed her "special bug" made him feel like she was accusing him of murder. The terror, anger, and sadness in her voice socked Abokk, as was the girl's bravery to enter a dark alley and point an angry finger at a giant rito with a slightly bloody sword. He figured she must be some noble's daughter who was used to going where ever she wanted without having to worry about being robbed. If she was a noble's daughter than Abokk would have to make sure he stayed on her good side.

"I didn't squash that golden ladybug. I was trying to catch it just like you until some bandits came and roughed me up. One of them stomped on it before the fight. If it makes you feel any better I gave him a few wounds before his goron buddy showed up."

Then Abokk remembered that some kids from different cultures liked to keep bugs as pets. He was partially guilty of this too, but he didn't consider himself close to his bugs. Most were kept alive so he could turn them into potions later on. Even then he had to sell them shortly after he caught them as most had short lifespans or were too delicate to be kept around for very long (unless you had the right magic bag). While a golden ladybug didn't seem like an exciting pet, golden bugs did live longer than their non-golden counterparts so it was possible the little girl was trying to find her lost pet.

"Look, I'm really sorry about your ladybug. Was it your pet?" Abokk asked. He kept his eyes out for anyone passing the alley. He was sure the gang was gone now (he heard Gozu roll-off in the distance) but he knew to always be prepared. The last beating was a harsh remember of that. Outside the alley, he saw a few people walk by, most were in a hurry to join the festival, but he did see a Hylian boy with some nice looking new clothes. He seemed to be a little lost. Abokk was glad this boy and the bug girl hadn't shown up sooner.

 

[Verran]

Blinking a few times, Aedris scrabbled about in his brain as he tried to regain a semblance of mental cohesion as the young man watched his elderly companion meander out the front gate. Still, he was vaguely aware that Leia was speaking to him and, while his words ran ahead of his brain, it still came out vaguely sensible.

"I…er…yes…I'll…sell the flowers. Some! Some of the flowers. I'll need to keep at least a few. For…How about," he gambled as his hands swept about, gathering up a bunch, while also remembering his duality towards selling these gifts of nature, that had to be held in with two hands before making the exchange with the guard. There was still over half a dozen left. Most of them were on him and had to be brushed off and gathered up with the feather.

"And, um, sure! Yes, Leia. Yes, I'll come. I'll come," he said as he got to his feet though casting idle glances over his shoulder at the retreating form of Ritcha. While the old man could be eccentric, this was exceptionally strange behavior. However, it did seem likely that, if Ritcha's farewell was to be true, that they would meet again. Yet there was something, final about it. As if, when next they met, the world will have changed, seasons shifted past, and nary a soul would be untouched. Aedris wondered at the dramatic tone of his thoughts before turning to Leia as he began make his way to the market square. He wondered why the old man had dashed off like that.

"Yah, Ritcha is certainly quite the blustering wind when the mood strikes him. Although, I've never known him to be wrong. Especially when it comes to people. So, um, what do you want to do?" Now that it came to the point of telling Leia and, for at least the second, there was calm, he found he didn't want to. Not yet, at least. After all, this festival was a big deal, he supposed, and likely wouldn't be matched for years if ever. Surely it couldn't hurt to enjoy it. At least until they decided to sit down somewhere for a quiet moment or two.

"Here ya go, mister!"

"Thank you," Aedris replied as he wondered what sort of games or displays or food was being offered today while adding the newly accepted addition to his bouquet. Wait a minute…

 

[DekuNightFury]

The incident at the gate was all but forgotten to Roscoe the moment he stepped into Castle Town. His eyes went as big as saucers with his beak slightly ajar, his head turning as though he were an owl instead of a woodpecker and so his body was forced to move with him, making complete 360 turns as his eyes tried to drink everything in. Growing up in a small village in the mountains did little to compare to the massive stone buildings with hundreds-nay thousands-of mixed-race civilians all gathered together for a celebration. His brother had to continuously push him along to keep the line moving and from blocking people's path. Every single little sight excited the young Rito; he would continuously point at things and shout excitedly as if his brother were blind and couldn't see it himself then go on to further explain how amazing it was.

"Cyril look! That person is juggling eight balls! How could one person juggle so many? Nine! He's juggling nine now!"

"That Goron just smashed a stack of fifteen bricks in one go! Wow! They're just a pile of pebbles now. Amazing! Do you think they'd be good at building or just destroying things?"

"Oh my Goddesses, look! This person is eating fire! Fire! How is he not burning?! Is he perhaps part dragon? I want to go ask-" Which his brother would proceed to pull him back and move along.

They managed to locate a good spot near the Town Square to begin setting up their stall. Their father began to unfold and transform the cart into a stall, pulling back beams that held up a small roof as the bottom of the cart became a table and the sides of the cart unfolded to make it wider. Hidden compartments contained the woodcraft and tools they planned on selling and were removed so that they could be set upon the table for passerby's to have a look at and hopefully tempt some into buying. Roscoe was in the middle of helping his father and brother set up the stall when the sound of three trumpets caught his attention. He paused and turned to face the Square to see an elderly well-dressed man step up and begin to make an announcement. The man gave his name but Roscoe was not too familiar with it and slowly began to lose interest.

"...archery...."

His ears caught onto that single word out of the jumble of other words the man was saying and his interest was immediately caught. The man had his full attention now. It was only then that he noticed the set up nearby that he quickly recognized to be an archery arena with iconic targets. His heart began to thud in his chest, his blood was pumping, his feathers began to tremble. Archery? Competition? Did this man know his favorite words? Could he really be in such luck? There was no way this could get any better.

"Captain Link, husband to her royal majesty Princess Zelda, has generously donated an artifact of unknown and likely ancient origins that he located in his famed exploits across the lands."

By the goddesses, it just got better! He was practically bouncing on his talons. This couldn't be happening! Roscoe stared with such awe as Captain Link held up the artifact. He had no idea what it was but he must win! Not so much for the prize itself but for the chance to meet Captain Link! To show the Captain how much skill he had and what he could contribute to Hyrule. To gain the attention of Captain Link... Now that was something. He wanted nothing more than to meet the man and shake his hand in mutual respect of one another. He had to be in this competition!

"Cyril! Cyril!" He could barely contain his excitement, his eyes never leaving the Square. "I have to join the competition. I must! My whole life has been leading up to this one moment!"

"Yeah yeah," Cyril responded as he began setting up the wooden figurines his family had crafted, "I'm sure it has. Look, you have plenty of time to sign up, so for right now how about you lend us-" He stopped when he turned his head only to find that his brother was gone.

Roscoe nearly crashed into the man who was just leaving the stand-who was strangely wearing a mask that made Roscoe think of some adorable fox-but he just managed to dance around him. "Sorry! In a hurry-nice mask by the way!" Then he was at the signup table with his hands slammed down on the surface.

"Roscoe Sherwood I'm here to signup for the Royal Archery Competition and I will try my very best to win so that I could meet Captain Link and shake his hand because I have heard so much about him and Princess Zelda and I would very much like to meet them both but even though Princess Zelda isn't here her husband is still a wonderful man to meet and I hope that by showing him my skills that perhaps I might prove some worth-" he said all of this in one go and only now did he take a deep breath before continuing, "-to the land of Hyrule as well as myself."

The dull-looking man just stared at Roscoe for a long moment without saying anything. "Uh... Right. What was your name again?"

"Roscoe Sherwood."

"Alright." A scribble of pen on parchment. "Remember, hear for your name at noon. Next!"

Roscoe moved away from the stand and took a glance at the sky to see if he could tell what time of day it was but it was difficult to tell with buildings so high. Oh he hoped it would be noon soon! He was more than ready than he would ever be for this.

 

[kookyboy9]

Adam Lyncrest

Location: Hyrule City - Castle Town
Date: Unkown

Interactions: @Kjbivins

Adam dashed out of the tailor's just in time to hear the announcement about the archery tournament. The object being offered up for the prize was certainly interesting, but it wasn't worth his father discovering that he'd snuck out to enjoy the festival instead of being a good little paperweight in his room. Assuming he would even stand a chance. He'd seen the archers shooting at school, but he'd never actually fired a bow himself. Perhaps it was time to slip into an alley to avoid all the eyes?

That in mind, he slipped into a nearby alleyway, just to hear a massive commotion. Taking a better look, he'd managed to slip into an occupied alley. The occupants were all strange in some way or another. There was a group of petty thugs, as well as a Rito with a massive crest atop his head. He was stalking forward with a bug net and was trying to catch... was that a golden bug!? He'd read about the insects before, but they were supposed to be incredibly rare. He'd have to remember about this. Rare things like this were always a treat. He opened his mouth to call out to warn the Rito with the bug net about the thugs, but he was a moment too late, as one of them stepped forward, striking him in the back of the head with a cudgel.

Adam began to reach for the glove on his right hand. He hadn't used serious magic since that incident with the bandits, and he wasn't sure he could do anything without messing the glove up. Which he certainly planned to do. What sort of monster would he be to let the Rito just be robbed? However, as he began tugging the glove off, the Rito turned and drew a hidden sword, slashing and smashing at the thugs adeptly.

However, things suddenly took a turn for the worst as a goron shouted and ran into the alleyway. The Rito tried to do the same he had done to the other thugs, but the Goron simply grabbed the weapon and then punched the Rito across the alley. It seemed that he could help after all. He didn't want to seriously injure anyone on the day of a festival, though. Perhaps he could intimidate the thugs? He finished tugging his glove off, manifesting a small cloud of icy shards above his hand. It wasn't any serious magic, just a conjurer's trick. But the thugs wouldn't be likely to know that.

The icy cloud still above his hand, he began closer to the fight, when the thugs suddenly up and ran away. He dispelled the cloud, heading forward to check on the Rito, when a little girl came running in from the other side of the alley. She seemed excited at first, then angrily spun on the Rito, yelling at him about having squished the bug.

Adam stepped forward, trying to get their attention. "Excuse me. I happened to see the whole thing. He didn't squish the bug at all." He turned to the injured Rito. "Are you alright? I tried a few times to help, but it looked more like I would've gotten in your way."

 

[Elle Joyner]

Leia
TAGS || @Red Thunder , @Verran, @DracoGale4 ​

---

The Hollows

Stepping back into the crowded square, the first thing Leia noticed was the sudden throng gathering around one of the booths set up. The archery contest, apparently, was quite the popular draw, and little doubt considering who by the prize was being presented. She had little interest, given her skills hardly lay in martial prowess, but judging from the multitude of people gathered, it was going to be a fun show.

"We should watch the contest. Look!" She gestured to the sign up table, "There's that fellow who gave you his feather there, and good heavens... Is that a Gerudo? Goodness, I'd forgotten just how tall they were. I wonder who might win. You're not an archer, are you? I'd sooner enter a wrestling match, myself. Certainly not a strongsuit of mine, that..." She had tried, once, to learn it, but apparently it required a great deal of strength and that, well... that was just laughable, all things considered.

Looking over, she noted the young one rush off after delivering a flower and brow quirked, she glanced up at Aedris, "...Did you send out some manner of missive? I've never seen anything quite like this... And flowers, too? How strange. Oh!" Her expressed shifted to one of interest, "You mentioned there was something you wanted to tell me?"

 

[Red Thunder]

~Agitha~
∆∆∆
​

At the sound of the unexpected visitor, Agitha squeaked and spun on her heel, nearly losing her footing as she did. Her hand went to her chest, and her breathing had quickened, but at the sight of Adam's relative mundanity, and apparent non-hostility, she sighed in deep relief.

"You shouldn't just sneak up on people like that, ya dummy! It isn't smart!"

Her diatribe trailed off, and her eyes narrowed, as if Adam's words were just now taking hold in her mind. She tilted her head, eyeing the beetle's corpse before turning her gaze to Adam again.

"He says bandits. You say he didn't squish it. Hmm." Brow furrowed, Agitha's face compressed in contemplation before exploding out again in joy. "Ok! I believe you both! Sad that I have to find another one, though. But that's how it goes sometimes."

Carefully, she kneeled down, scooping the shattered shell into her petite hand. She dropped the bug net and opened a pocket wide, methodically depositing it, as if completing a routine ritual. Finally, the girl lifted her net from the path and began skipping away, calling back in something of a sing-song tone.

"I'll caaaall you a doooctoooor, doooon't worryyyyy!"

Her voice faded as she disappeared around the corner, and soon after, vanished from hearing entirely.

~the Scribe~
∆∆∆
​

Too noisy.

He was a little man, was the Scribe. There was a crease in his brow that refused to leave, as if etched permanently into his skin. Darkness sagged beneath two dull eyes, and his skin was pale and becoming redder by the moment in the relative heat of the day. Not that it was hot, by any stretch of the imagination. But he was growing frustrated. His love, his expertise, was books and scrolls, to learn and transcribe the things said by mouth or writing, to know the deepest, most obscure knowledge within the confines of the Hyrule Royal Library.

And here he was, being forced to interact. With people. To his credit, there was no special bias against anyone. Class, race, gender: it was all the same to him. He loathed them all equally. Rather, he loathed being forced to speak to them equally. First, the vegetable kid. Then, the exuberant git of a woodpecker. Three or four before them; three or four after them. This was exhausting. His fingers almost moved of their own accord, scribbling down the would-be competitors' names, as his weary mind sought refuge in whatever dark corner of his library he could muster within it.

"And I."

The voice was abyssal, deep as Lake Hylia, yet as smooth as the ice on the North Peak. And it came from a high point above the Scribe, higher than was more common to the applicants thus far, and the Scribe looked up. The man's details were shadowed by the apexing sun, but he was very tall indeed. He thought he could perhaps perceive Gerudo styles in the man's clothes. The voice continued.

"I shall shoot the heavy bow."

"Matters little," came the reply, the Scribe dropping his eyes back to the parchment before him. "Name."

"I shoot incognito."

"'Incognito'. Fine. Be ready at the noon bell.

"Next!"

The tall man turned and vanished back into the crowd. And the Scribe prayed desperately to the Goddesses for an end to his suffering.

 

[Kjbivins]

Abokk spotted the boy enter the alleyway before the bug girl was startled. He was still keeping his eyes out for a possible escape route or if the bandits were coming back. It wasn't expecting the young man to enter here and Abokk was really surprised to hear this stranger vouch for him, even going so far as to say he tried to help. Abokk thought back to his fight; it was wild, chaotic, and fast. If the boy was afar and casting some sort of spell then Abokk could easily have missed it. After the stranger gave his account, the girl then became all cheerful and left with the dead bug while singing a slightly morbid tone (some of Abokk's feathers rose up the same why neck hair on mammal races stands on end when their scared).

"Well, that went...better than I thought," Abokk said as he watched the fairy girl skip away. "Thought my day was going to get worse for a second...actually it might still get worse." Abokk meant to be humourous but comedy was never really one of his strong suits.

"Yeah listen, I'm not used to people trying to help me, even if it wasn't much, so um...thanks." Abokk wasn't used to that. He wasn't used to the idea of having someone stick their own necks out for him. There had been a few exceptions (like that large zora he met a while ago who gave him some fishing tips because he could tell Abokk was starving) but Abokk largely saw himself as the only one he could count on. He could never be sure if someone was only helping him for their own gain, but under the current circumstances,there was nothing this boy could have gained from helping him just then.

Abokk held out one of his black and blue feathery wings as if it were a Hylian hand. "The name's Abokk. I don't have as much as some of the other merchants, but I'll give you a deal if you need any creatures for potions."

 

[Rouge Rogue]

ŋ ą ɖ ı ʝ ą ɧ
mentions: just npcs for now
__________________________________________________
​

Nadijah was fairly certain she hated the festivities.

The festival was grand, no soul could claim otherwise. The decorations were vibrant enough to be seen halfway across the kingdom, and the music loud enough to reach twice as far. In naught but half a day, Nadi had already seen more flowers than she thought possible, in colours she had never known existed. Even the amount of people alone was cause for wonder. She had not known the true meaning of a crowded street before she'd arrived and found herself just a tiny part of an ever-flowing stream of people, pushed every which way by its whims. It was a celebration unlike any she had seen before, or would ever see - of that, she was certain.

Therein lay the heart of Nadi's conflict.

Amidst the overabundance of festive glow, she felt a fish out of water - just as trapped as the large trouts in their barrels. She prided herself a warrior of remarkable stature, yet among the endless sea of people and the high stands decorated to impress heavens themselves, she felt like a grain of sand in comparison. And she knew it was by design.

They might have called this a festival of peace, but her mind was not so easily clouded by mirth. In truth, was this not just an opportunity for the king of Hyrule to flaunt his wealth and power? It was a warning dipped in honey, a threat draped in the finest of clothes - yet a threat all the same. 'Behold the men I can mobilize with a single word', the occasion screamed, 'If this is what I do to celebrate, imagine my might in war.'

Nadi scoffed. As if a million men could protect the king from a Gerudo's blade. He might have sat safe upon his throne, coddled by men clad in steel and duty, but in his chambers, sound asleep, he was defenseless as a babe all the same. The castle walls were high. They were not high enough.

The young Gerudo took another bite of her skewer, her regicidal thoughts giving way to a momentary bliss. The food was, without a shadow of a doubt, the best part of this pretentious fair, and she felt not an ounce of shame in admitting it. She had spent the better half of the day meandering around the food stalls, trying whatever she could get her hands on. She'd loved the meats the most. She didn't recognize the meat on her current skewer, but she knew it was not horse. She only recognized horse.

With the meat gone, she tossed aside the stick and moved on to the next one. A little distance away, Tamrin the Old yammered on about Sages. Nadi was willing to bet Lady Laera knew twice as much as the old coot, and with a better posture to boot. She'd forgotten how small the other races were; twice so once age started to weigh on them. Tamrin looked as though a breeze could carry him away any moment.

Now that would've been entertainment.

Yet despite his fragile appearance, Old Tamrin held some manner of peculiar charisma. He must've, because Nadi found herself listening to his story despite herself. 'The greatest evil' - was that not human greed? The war a hundred years ago had not been waged to defeat some manner of a monster, it was fought to lay claim on three magical trinkets. But that didn't make for a very nice story for the children.

"Behaving still, young blade?"

Nadijah turned to catch the approach of another Gerudo. Her tribe had sent a few others besides her - mostly older women with the skill to wield a blade, and the mind not to do so unless necessary. Raeja was no exception. Though her long hair had started to turn ashen, the fire in her gaze was still enough to burn most foreign folk to ashes. She was as wide as she was tall, and needed no scimitar to kill a man; her hands were aplenty. Nadi remembered being smacked by her a few times when she misbehaved, and swore the bruises stung to this day.

The bouquets upon bouquets of flowers tucked under her arm did not fit her image, but Nadi supposed even the fiercest lion still cared for their cubs. Raeja had no children of her own, but she took care of her makeshift garden back home like she had given birth to it. Nadi had stepped on some of her flowers once when young. She'd never done it again.

"As always." Nadijah made no attempt to sound reassuring. It would have gone to waste, anyhow. Raeja had known her since she was a girl. "Though I still think Saye would have enjoyed this more."

"Your mother did not send Saye, did she?" Raeja settled to stand next to her, opening a book Nadi hadn't realized she carried. It must've been new. 'The Language of Flowers', the cover read. Did she intend to speak to her bouquets?

"Her mistake," the young Gerudo drawled, tearing meat from her skewer to chew on, tossing away the rest. The soggy green things were the worst. She'd burnt her mouth on them earlier. It was peculiar, the magic that had managed to trap fire inside a vegetable.

"Care for that tongue," Raeja warned sternly, even if her smile was yet to falter. "If it gets any sharper, I might mistake it for a scimitar and slash away."

"You'd do me a great favour. The boredom hurts more than your swings ever could." Her skewer finished, Nadi's gaze trailed to one of the guards standing sentry nearby. Raeja had confiscated her weapons before they reached the city, citing a need to ensure she did not hurt anyone with them. After much resistance, she'd obliged - hidden blades not withstanding.

The guards had their weapons in plain view. Large swords, dangling at their hip. They seemed heavy, much like the men's armour, and Nadi couldn't imagine them to be very effective in a fight. How did the guards intend to do battle while trapped inside such steely prisons anyway? Surely, if their opponent's swift blows didn't deliver them, the heat of the sun would.

Curiosity was a sand seal, wailing in the back of her mind. She had to see one of the guards in a bout. "Do you think they'd mind if one of their guards--"

"I do." Raeja's tone was firm, but her eyes didn't leave the pages of her book. "You'd best behave."

Nadi rolled her eyes and stabbed her empty skewer into the soil of the closest flower pot. It sunk in deep.

"I'll go find more food."

- - -​

When Nadi next returned to the Market Square, she found Raeja where she'd left her; leaning against the outer fence of the square, engrossed in her book.

"By now, you must be fluent in this language the flowers speak," Nadi mused upon approach, arms full of food. Bowls of broth, skewers aplenty, even an apple or two. It had been a while since she'd tasted apple, but she remembered it to be sweet from her girlhood days. "Have you tried speaking to the potted ones? What do they say?"

"They ask for silence," Raeja replied pointedly, not moving her gaze from the pages.

"Yours, or mine?" Nadi grinned as she drew up next to her, offering some of her food. But not the apples. The apples were hers. "Eat. Books don't fill stomachs."

"They fill the mind," Raeja knew. "Yours could use a library's worth."

Nadi poked her with a skewer.

It was during their feast that Nadi's eyes strayed to the clearing on the right. The last she'd been here, people had still been hard at work setting it up. She remembered two stocky men carrying the hay bales that now stood at the far end of the area, what were unmistakably targets secured onto them. Nadi took a bite of her last apple, idly wondering what purpose the setup served. She could only think of one, yet dared not be sure. Disappointment held a bitter taste, even more so than the tiny red berries she'd found in her dessert earlier.

"Raeja? What do you think those are fo-"

Her question was cut short by the resounding sound of a trumpet. She startled at the sound, hand instinctively reaching for a blade she did not carry. At home, trumpets were a warning. Here, they seemed to herald the arrival of a yet another man clad in bright robes and self-importance. Master of Ceremonies, he called himself. The King of Fools, more like. Nadi paid his words little heed, her unenthused, slumped form a sore thumb among the cheery folk that filled the square. Next to her, Raeja turned another page in her book.

Then came the topic of archery.

A dozen summer suns lit up Nadi's eyes. So that was indeed what the clearing was for! She felt excitement flow through her like water, invigorating each and every corner of her tired body. She glanced to Raeja, catching her knowing grin. "Go on, young blade."

Nadi needn't be told twice. She weaved her way through the crowd with surprising deft - doubly so for someone not accustomed to such amount of people. She was a snake, lithe and fast, and where she saw no opening to slither through, she made one. In no time at all, Nadi stood at the head of the line. She towered over a feeble man with a quill and a book, wondering what manner of sickness had left him looking so pale. She would have asked, had the man not craned his neck to look up at her with droopy eyes.

"Name?" The scribe asked.

"Nadijah," she began, so enthused that all her words threatened to spill out at once. "Nadijah of the Razordancers, Second Daughter of Farajah, the--"

"Nadijah. Wonderful. Wait for the noon bell."

Taken aback by his nonchalance, Nadi forgot her voice for a moment. By the time she found it, the scribe gave her no chance to try and correct him. Before her lips could part, he'd waved closer whomever stood behind her.

"Next."

When she returned to Raeja's side, Nadi practically threw herself against the fencing. "Do you think they'll find a stray arrow suspicious?"

"And why might your arrow stray?"

Nadi glanced back towards the scribe, his unsuspecting back begging to be taught a lesson. Though her shoulders rose into a shrug of indifference, the venom in her voice betrayed her ire.

"No reason."