Sophitia rode through the city streets atop her favorite white horse, Storm. Liliana rode beside her, and a column of mounted guards surrounded them from the front and from behind. She selected this particular group of guards every time she left the castle grounds if she could manage it. She'd built a friendly relationship with each of them, and all of them favored her over any of her siblings. That would be especially meaningful now that she was in direct competition with Victorique and her brothers. She wouldn't want any of her guards informing them of her activities, whatever she may be doing.
"What exactly are you expecting from Pelletier?" Liliana asked her charge. "I'm not sure she'd ever support your claim to the throne over anyone else's. The arbiters are supposed to pride themselves on their neutrality."
"Her support is not my goal, no," Sophitia answered. "I merely wish to clarify a few things, and the Grand Arbiter would have more knowledge of this subject than anyone."
"You want to know if your father is lying to you," Liliana surmised.
"It would not be the first time." Sophitia pulled the reins of her horse, following her vanguard around the corner, the courthouse coming into sight. "My father is always looking for ways to get my siblings and I to contend with one another," the princess explained. "He says it makes us stronger. If he wanted us to fight, telling my brothers and I we can compete for the throne would be a great way to achieve that."
"I see," Liliana said, a veiled look of pity in her eyes.
"It is no matter," Sophitia assured her. "Didn't you and your siblings ever fight?"
"Of course. What siblings don't?" Liliana replied. "Although we were always more apt to fight over who would get the last helping of dessert. Never for something so lofty as a throne."
Sophitia chuckled. "I suppose my position must be somewhat unique, surely."
The column of horses trotted up to the entrance to the courthouse. The building was a grand piece of architecture. Six white marble columns lined the front of it after a short flight of stairs. On either side stood a giant statue of Nayru carved from magnificent azure stone. Each statue had the appearance of a beautiful, long-haired woman in an elegant dress. One held a harp, the other held the scales of justice. Atop the roof of the courthouse was another statue carved from the same blue stone. This one was of a giant whale - one of the forms Nayru supposedly appeared in during her contact with the Zora in ancient times. As the bringer of civilization, Nayru was worshipped as the Goddess of Law and Justice, especially among the Hylians and the Zora who favored her above the other Golden Goddesses.
Sophitia and her party dismounted, and a pair of guards came forth to take her and Liliana's horses. "Captain Reede," Sophitia said, turning to the man at the front of the column.
"Yes, Princess?"
"You and your men are to wait outside."
"As you wish."
"And please hold on to my retainer's weapon. Visitors cannot go armed in the courthouse."
Liliana and the captain both looked puzzled. "My princess," Captain Reede said. "No one inside would think to order a royal guard accompanying a member of the royal family to disarm."
"The law is the law," Sophitia insisted.
No doubt the Grand Arbiter will take more kindly to me this way.
As Liliana said, it was not likely that she'd be able to get Grand Arbiter Pelletier to put in a good word for her with her father. However, having the backing of a Grand Council member would be more useful than any noble, and it never hurt to try.
The captain nodded. "As you say." Liliana removed her sword and its scabbard from her belt and handed it to Captain Reede.
"Thank you, captain." Sophitia bowed her head slightly, then proceeded up the steps to the courthouse with Liliana in tow. "My apologies for forcing you to part from your weapon for the time being," she said to her bodyguard.
"I feel naked," Liliana said. "And not in the fun way."
Sophitia laughed haughtily. "Well, no matter. I trust you are still more than capable of protecting me."
"Of course. If you die, I'll have to find a new job."
Reaching the top of the steps, they entered the courthouse and made their way to a line of booths along the wall, looking to speak to one of the attendants. Sophitia's presence did not seem to draw too much attention. A few people within the crowded entry hall looked their way and began whispering amongst themselves, but most did not appear to recognize her.
And yet, Victorique gets recognized everywhere she goes...
"There's too many people here," Liliana said quietly, stepping closer to her charge. "We should have brought more guards in with us."
"That will not be necessary," Sophitia replied confidently, smiling and waving as she passed by the group of onlookers. "My guards may be outside, but there are many sworn defenders of justice in this building who would not take kindly to any aggression directed towards us," she said, gesturing with her hand to direct Liliana's attention to the guards posted around the room.
"Hmph." Liliana did not seem very impressed.
Ignoring her friend's concern, Sophitia stepped up to one of the booths. "Greetings, kind woman," she said to the attendant behind the counter. "Might I request your assistance for a brief moment?"
"Um. Oh! Of course, my lady." The woman may not have recognized the princess, but she could probably at least tell that Sophitia was of the nobility in some way. "How might I serve you?"
"I am looking for the Grand Arbiter. I would very much like to meet with her if she is available."
The woman winced, as if she were afraid to tell Sophitia something she may not like to hear. "My apologies, my lady, but her court is in session at the moment."
"I see. No matter. May I sit in and observe?"
"Y-Yes, of course. Please, go on in."
"You have my gratitude." The guards let Sophitia and Liliana cross the threshold and head down the hall to the grand courtroom. Quietly, they stepped through the doorway and filed into an empty bench near the back of the room.
Grand Arbiter Pelletier sat on a throne atop an elevated platform at the end of the room. Like Princess Miphela and Prince Silorn, she was a Zora, originally hailing from the Lanayru Province. Pelletier looked a good deal older than Miphela, but then again, Sophitia had never been good at judging the age of Zora. Miphela looked no older than the princess was, but in actuality, the Zora princess and her brother were both several decades older than her.
Sitting upright on her throne, Pelletier wore violet robes of fine silk. Opal and sapphire jewelry dangled from the circlet atop her finned head. On either side of her was another throne. The one on her left was occupied by a Zora man, and the one on her right by a Hylian woman. Sophitia did not recognize them, but she knew what their role was. Most trials in Central Hyrule and several of the kingdom's provinces were conducted by a tribunal of arbiters who determined the guilt or innocence of the accused. The Grand Arbiter would be conferring with the other two for this trial.
On the ground level in front of them, a Hylian man in shackles stood at a fenced-in podium with guards on either side of him.
"Allow me to make sure I understand the situation," the Grand Arbiter spoke. "You claim you were only at the scene of the crime because you were on your way to the temple."
"Yes, that's right, Your Honor," the man said, nodding furiously.
"Yes. And remind me where your place of residence is located?"
"By the east gate, Your Honor."
"I see. And I suppose you decided that, rather than walking directly north up the road to the cathedral, it was faster to head all the way over to the reservoir on the west side of the city first?"
The defendant turned bright red. Hushed laughter echoed from the observers sitting in on the proceedings. Liliana leaned in to Sophitia. "Lucky for us. Doesn't look like this will take long."
"Y-Your Honor, I, I-" the defendant stammered.
"I think we've heard enough." Grand Arbiter Pelletier raised her hand, calling for silence. "This tribunal will now convene. May Nayru be just." She and the other arbiters stood and walked out of the room through the left exit. The guards took the defendant by the arms and led him back to his seat. Some of the observers stayed to see the verdict, while others began to file out, likely knowing how it would end.
"Shame. I was hoping this would be more educational," Sophitia said. She was not intimately familiar with the kingdom's legal process. If she was truly going to be queen one day, she would need to learn all she could about every facet of the royal government.
"Shall we stay for the sentencing, Princess?" Liliana asked.
"The verdict comes first, does it not?" Sophitia reminded her.
"Sounds like everyone in the room already knows what the verdict is."
"True. But I suppose formalities are better indulged than forgotten in matters of justice."
Liliana nodded in acceptance. "So long as we are able to speak with the Grand Arbiter before her next trial. You should request an audience with her soon."
"Yes, that is a good idea," the princess agreed. "I'll speak with one of her attendants."
Following a very brief period of deliberation, the arbiters returned and read out their guilty verdict. While they were handing out the sentence, Sophitia signalled a guard over to her. "Please inform Grand Arbiter Pelletier that Princess Zelda Sophitia is here to see her," she said to the guard. Although she preferred to go by only her middle name, she found that her given name often carried a lot of weight.
"Yes, Princess." The guard shuffled off down the aisle. While everyone else was getting up and leaving, the guard approached Pelletier and spoke to her. She nodded and said something back before leaving with the other arbiters.
"The Grand Arbiter will see you in her office," the guard said when he returned.
"Very good. Thank you, sir."
Sophitia and Liliana got up and left, then made their way through the hallways until they arrived at Pelletier's office. Two Zora guards stood outside, holding silver spears with fish-tail shaped spearheads. They must have been expecting the princess, as they opened the doors without questioning her.
The Grand Arbiter's office was an interesting sight. Sophitia had visited the Zora Dominion's capital city of Ruta when she was a child, and the room reminded her a lot of how the interior of buildings had looked over there. The walls and all the furniture had a sleek, smooth design. Everything seemed to be made of silver or carved from opal or sea stone. The entire wall on the left side of the room was a glass aquarium with fish swimming around inside of it. The floor of the back half of the room was a tiled, six-inch depression that was also filled with water, and the Grand Arbiter's desk sat along the dividing line. On the desk, rather than quills and parchment, there were reeds and clay tablets, presumably because the water-dwelling Zora would not find paper very useful.
A young Zora serving girl pulled out the chair on the dry end of the desk. "Please have a seat, my princess. Shall I fetch another chair for your companion?"
"I'll stand," Liliana stated.
The serving girl bowed in acceptance as Sophitia took her seat. "The Grand Arbiter will be with you in a moment." She stepped into the water and quite gracefully waded through it over to the door at the other end, letting herself out.
"This is not what I expected," Liliana said, walking over to the wall aquarium and putting her hand on the glass.
"Did you have fish like those back home?" Sophitia inquired, knowing Liliana came from a fishing village.
"I've seen these kinds a few times at the markets in Lurelin, perhaps," Liliana answered. "They're probably from Lanayru. My father's ship usually fishes from off the coast of Ordona up to the Necluda Sea."
Sophitia nodded. "I would love to see more of the ocean. Shame we're so far inland. The Regencia and the Hylia are beautiful in their own way, but sometimes I envy those on the coast."
"Hmm," Liliana grunted. "I prefer it here."
Before Sophitia could respond, the door on the submerged side of the room opened and the Grand Arbiter entered. "My apologies for keeping you waiting, Princess Sophitia."
"No apologies necessary, Your Honor." Sophitia stood, smiling pleasantly. "You have my sincerest gratitude for taking the time to speak with me." She and Pelletier sat down on opposite sides of the desk. Liliana returned to Sophitia's side and stood with her arms crossed behind her back.
"You are most welcome," Pelletier replied. "Now, how may I be of service to the Crown today?"
"I require no great service. I merely have a few questions about the law. Specifically with regard to succession." Sophitia did not know Pelletier very well, but from what she could gather, the Grand Arbiter was probably the type who preferred to get to the point.
"Are you looking to draw up a will?" the Grand Arbiter asked, putting her hand to her chin.
"No, my lady." Sophitia smiled subtley to herself. "I wish to know about the succession of the throne."
Pelletier tilted her head curiously, her opal and sapphire head jewelry swinging as she did. "I see. What is it you wish to know?"
"Where am I in line, might I ask?"
"Fourth, of course," Pelletier replied. "First is your eldest sister. Then come your brothers. After you is your sister, and after her is your uncle, Alchon."
"But what about after him?" Sophitia asked. She hoped to frame her line of questioning as if she were concerned about what would happen should the Hyrule line die out. At this stage, it would be best to avoid being too open about her desire to become queen.
"Well, there would be no more descendants of Hylia remaining at that point."
"Yes, I know," Sophitia said. "But surely there must be some contingency in place. The throne would have to pass to someone, would it not?"
"Indeed. There are ancient laws on the books that would come into effect in that event," Pelletier explained. "Your aunt, Celessa, would serve as next in line, as she has the closest ties to the Hyrulean Royal Family by way of marriage. After her, other past marriage connections would be explored among other noble Houses."
"I see." Sophitia steepled her hands, as if deep in thought. "Could the reigning monarch choose a different order of succession?" she asked. "For instance, could my father choose who would be next in line after my aunt, so as to avoid possible infighting amongst the nobility?"
"While he still reigns, your father's word is law," the Grand Arbiter answered. "I merely interpret the laws put forth by the Crown."
Sophitia kept her hands in front of her face a moment longer to hide her grin. "Does that mean the order of succession is not set in stone at all?" she asked. "Or has it already been decided up until my aunt?"
"As I've said, your father's word is law," Pelletier repeated. "The order in place at the moment is merely the default as defined by laws already in place. King Tychon is free to override these laws and alter the sequence in any way at any point, so long as he still reigns. Whoever succeeds him could alter it again as well."
So it's true.
Her father had not been lying. Victorique was not guaranteed to be queen. He could choose any one of them to be his successor, even his fourth child.
"We have all laws of the realm on file in this courthouse," Grand Arbiter Pelletier continued. "If you wish to learn more, I could have a copy of the laws pertaining to succession and inheritance sent to you at the castle."
"That would be splendid, thank you," Sophitia said, trying to keep herself from smiling too broadly. She felt giddy inside. The spark that had been ignited in her during the meeting with her father was quickly growing into a raging fire. "Now, I suppose I should be going," she said, climbing to her feet. "I will see you at the summit tomorrow, will I not?"
"You will, my princess."
"Then I look forward to our next meeting. Thank you again for your assistance. This was highly educational. Good day, Your Honor." Sophitia bowed and turned to leave. Liliana hurried on ahead and opened the door for her.
"I take it that was what you were hoping to hear, wasn't it?" Liliana asked as they walked down an empty hallway.
"Yes. Yes it was!" Sophitia could barely contain her excitement. "My father was telling the truth. I can be queen!"
"He still could've been lying, though," Liliana pointed out. "Just because he can choose someone other than your sister doesn't mean he will."
"True, true," Sophitia conceded. "But I don't think my father's preferential treatment of my sister is anything sentimental. He truly believes she would be the best ruler out of all of us. All I need to do is prove him wrong, and the throne is as good as mine."
The princess stepped out of the courthouse with a renewed enthusiasm. They had no more time to waste. With many more items left on her agenda, she needed to return to the castle as quickly as possible.
"Princess Sophitia." Captain Reede greeted her as she reached the bottom of the courthouse steps. "Was the Grand Arbiter able to meet with you?" As he spoke, Liliana held out her hand, and the captain handed her sword back to her. She quickly proceeded to reattach it to her belt.
"Indeed she was, Captain." Sophitia looked around in search of her horse. "Bring me Storm!" she called to her other guards. Once she and the others remounted, they set off for the castle.
The next day, it was finally time for the grand summit meeting. Having taken care of everything else left on her agenda, Sophitia and her retainer strolled through the castle grounds, heading for the royal throne room that would serve as the king's audience chamber. Wanting to look her best for the occasion, the princess had opted to don her crown for once, along with her most royal-looking dress. Her crown was a braided gold circlet with three thin rubies fanning out in the center - modest enough for the fourth child of the king, yet still quite elegant. However, as nice as it looked, Sophitia had always envied the more ostentatious diamond crown her elder sister wore.
But someday, I will wear my father's crown instead.
Liliana's change in outfit was much more noticeable, as she was now wearing a full suit of armor. Although not yet a knight, she possessed some quality plate mail. Sophitia had commissioned it for her as a gift after she'd accepted the role of her personal attendant. Knowing Liliana's tastes, the princess had requested that it prioritize function over form, so it was considerably less showy than the armor worn by most of the knights of the Royal Guard. However, she still wore a cape. She'd protested at first, but Sophitia had insisted everyone must look their best at the summit.
"You truly are quite striking in that armor," Sophitia commented, looking over her bodyguard. "No one would dare attempt to harm me with you around."
"I look foolish," Liliana complained. "You don't wear a cape into battle. You could trip over it, or your opponent could grab onto it."
"But it looks royal," Sophitia asserted. "And imposing. Why do you think my brother wears one?"
"Because he's a twat."
Sophitia laughed. "Now, now. Remember what I said about guarding that sharp tongue of yours."
"Prince Percival doesn't scare me."
"He should," Sophitia told her. "Besides, he is a rival of mine in my quest for the throne now. I can't have you turning him into an open enemy."
"My apologies, Princess."
"You are forgiven. Now, let us-"
"Oi, Princess!"
From up above, an unfamiliar voice called out to her. Someone was sitting atop the wall one level above them. For a brief moment, Sophitia thought it was Dame Jeanne. The figure had the same long red hair despite clearly being a Hylian and not a Gerudo. Even from afar, her facial features were strikingly similar to that of Seraphina's bodyguard. However, this girl was much younger than Dame Jeanne, looking to be about the same age as Sophitia. She wore a violet overcoat and leather boots. Her eyes were yellow and almost cat-like, and she had her hair tied up in a ponytail with a white ribbon.
"Awfully casual way to address royalty, wouldn't you say?" Liliana called up to the mysterious girl, sounding quite peeved, even if she was perhaps being a tad hypocritical.
The red-haired girl hopped down off the edge of the wall, landing in front of Sophitia. Liliana was quick to draw her blade and step between them. "Whoa! Easy there, Dame Killjoy," the girl said, holding up her hands in mock surrender. "I was just being friendly!"
"Who are you?" Liliana asked, her monotone voice conflicting with her battle-ready stance.
"Isn't a knight supposed to name herself before asking another's name?" The red-haired girl smirked, baring an impish fang.
"I'm not a knight," Liliana corrected her.
"Well then why the hell are you dressed like one?" The impish girl laughed as if she found the whole situation amusing.
"I ask you again. Who…?" Liliana trailed off.
Sophitia noticed the massive shadow that had fallen over them. With a sinking feeling, she whirled around. Looming over her was a very tall Hylian man. He had dark black hair, a mustache, and a small, pointed beard, and he wore a dark black overcoat with red trim. As he looked down at her with deep red eyes, Sophitia recognized him. "Ah, Lord Remoth!" she said in greeting, trying to shake off her startled feeling. "Good day to you."
"And to you as well, Princess Sophitia," the man replied in a deep, calm voice, putting his hand over his heart and giving a respectful bow.
Sophitia noticed Liliana giving her a cautious look. The princess didn't blame her. She'd told Liliana all about Lord Remoth's somewhat unsavory reputation in the past. "Liliana, I would like you to meet Toren Remoth, Lord of Midoro and Lord Paramount of Hyrule Ridge." She hoped that by introducing him politely, she could communicate to Liliana that they had nothing to fear from him. "Lord Remoth, this is my retainer, Liliana."
"A pleasure," Lord Remoth said, standing up straight. "Ah, and I see you've met my lovely daughter."
Sophitia raised an eyebrow in confusion, then remembered the red-haired girl. Sure enough, behind her, the girl was smiling that imp-toothed smile of hers. "Hey there. I'm Mina." Putting her hands in her pockets, she skirted around Sophitia and Liliana over to her father's side. Mina was taller than Sophitia, but she looked short standing next to her exceedingly tall father.
"Oh! Yes. Very nice to meet you. Will you be joining us in the king's audience chamber as well, my lady?" Sophitia asked.
"Hmm, sure, why not?" Mina Remoth held up her hands in an exaggerated shrug. "But if I get bored, I'm outta there."
"I… see." Sophitia blinked. The red-haired girl did not act like one would expect a noble girl to act, especially given that she was the daughter of a man like Toren Remoth. His was not among the oldest of Hyrule's Noble Houses, but it was one of the wealthiest. This was due in large part to the many mining operations they operated throughout Tanagar Canyon, which were known to use captured monsters for hard labor. He also had a reputation for brutality when it came to dealing with lawbreakers. While not technically a governor since the Ridgelands were a part of Central Hyrule, his territory was larger than some of the smaller provinces.
Liliana once again stepped between Sophitia and the others. "Come along, Princess. Let's not keep your father waiting."
Sophitia nodded and resumed walking, trying to ignore the shadow looming over her and the feeling of Lord Remoth's gaze on the back of her head. Thankfully, they soon arrived at the entrance to the great throne room. A pair of royal guards opened the doors for them as they went inside.
Sophitia and Liliana walked down the aisle past the many rows of seats in the gallery. When they reached the Grand Council table at the end, they went past it and proceeded to one of the twin staircases leading to the upper level. There, Sophitia's father sat upon his throne. Princess Victorique sat at his right, with Prince Percival and Princess Seraphina beside her. Percival's crown resembled their father's, although the golden wingcrest part of it was longer and thinner, and it was tipped with a ruby and a diamond placed next to each other. Seraphina's crown was a pretty little gold tiara with a single red ruby upon her forehead. Two empty thrones sat on the left of the king. Prince Lancel would sit by his side once he arrived, so after ascending the stairs, Sophitia took her place in the other seat on the far end.
Liliana came to stand by Sophitia's side. Her siblings had their retainers with them as well, and the Grand Protector stood beside the king. Many other members of the Royal Guard were stationed throughout the throne room, guarding both the Royal Family and the Grand Council. Unlike Liliana, most of them were full-fledged knights, and quite experienced ones at that.
With the exception of Grand Protector Brigo, the other seven members of the king's Grand Council sat at a long wooden table on the lower level, facing the gallery. In the center were three Sheikah men. The one in the very center was Grand Minister Malkori, a tall, distinguished-looking man with a drooping mustache and a pair of spectacles. To his right sat Grand Watcher Socicila, who covered himself in dark robes with a hood and scarf hiding most of his face. The third Sheikah was Grand Alchemist Noldor, an extremely elderly man with unkempt hair and bug-eyes. Next to him sat Grand Archivist Botrick, an equally elderly yet much better-groomed Hylian man. Grand Arbiter Pelletier, the Zora judge, sat next to him. On the other end of the table next to Socicila was Grand Treasurer Loho, a Deku Scrub whose facial leaves gave him the appearance of a mustache and a bow tie. Finally, being much too large to properly sit at the table, the massive Grand Artisan Rodan sat off to the side of it. He was an elderly, white-bearded Goron with a boulder-sized rocky growth on his back that caused him to hunch over when he stood.
Out in the gallery were many of Central Hyrule's highest-ranking lords, along with their guards and servants. Lord Remoth and his daughter were among them, having taken their seats while Sophitia climbed the stairs. The princess saw many others she recognized as well, including Lord Lontha of Mabe, whose territory contained the ranch where the kingdom's best horses were bred. Also in attendance was Aurun, the Sage of Light. He was an old man with a bald head and a bushy white mustache, and he wore a cloak decorated with owl feathers. Above the gallery was an upper level made up of eight balconies arranged in a semi-circle going around the room, on the same level and across from the royal thrones. These balconies were where the governors sat with those who had accompanied them to the capital. Each balcony had a banner hanging from the railing emblazoned with the symbol of the governor's House or their territory.
On the far right balcony stood Danton Koridai, Governor of Hebra. He was a handsome, middle-aged Hylian man. Although it was mostly populated by Rito, the Hebra Province had not yet been overseen by a Rito governor in the time since it became a part of the kingdom. Many Rito were unhappy with this, which was one of the major issues on the summit's agenda. The Koridai banner showed a snowcoat fox, a small animal common to the icy Tabantha Tundra.
From the next balcony hung a banner showing a cobra, the symbol of House Vapith. Tauma Vapith, Governor of Gerudo, was a tall woman with long dark hair. She herself was not a Gerudo, but a Hylian. The Gerudo had always been quite resistant to Hyrulean governance, which had quite famously led to King Ganondorf's failed rebellion, as well as the Twilight War. The current state of the province was going to be another major issue of discussion, and likely the most difficult and urgent one.
On the next balcony was Straia Stylas, Governor of Faron. A former war hero, he had come to the summit wearing a cape and a suit of shining armor, which combined with his golden locks and confident smile to give him the look of a dashing hero. His banner showed a collie dog, crouched and ready to pounce.
To his left was Rozel Bede, Governor of Ordona, the province in which Liliana was born. Like her, Governor Bede was a round-eared Ordonian. He had the appearance and build of a man used to physical labor. Given that his sigil was a pumpkin, he likely came from a family with an agricultural background and had probably spent some time out in the fields.
The Governor of Necluda was Sophitia's aunt, Celessa of House Kochi. Her symbol was a wingcrest representing a loftwing, an extinct giant bird that Hylians used as mounts back during the Sky Era. Being the late queen's sister, Celessa looked a lot like an older version of Princess Victorique. She did not look particularly enthusiastic to be there. Although she was always kind to Sophitia and her siblings, the princess always got the feeling that her aunt did not get along very well with her brother-in-law.
While the actual governor of the Lanayru Province was King Ralis de Bon of the Zora Dominion, he was absent. In his place, he was being represented by his daughter, Princess Miphela. Beside her stood her brother, Prince Silorn. Miphela looked serious, but nervous. Silorn had a cocky smile on his face, but Sophitia could tell he was nervous, too. Rather than a personal House sigil, their banner showed the symbol of the Zora Dominion, a jewel made up of three round blue sapphire stones.
The banner to the left of the Zora was emblazoned with a grape vine. That was the sigil of Rudi Vryciaro, Governor of Akkala, and currently the only remaining member of one of Hyrule's oldest Noble Houses. He was a well-groomed, dark-haired man wearing the finest purple robes one could find outside of the Royal Family, yet despite his refinement, his meek body language indicated discomfort. Included in his party was Sophitia's uncle, General Alchon. He was not a subordinate of Governor Vryciaro, but he was in command of Akkala Citadel, so he would be partially representing the province nonetheless. Someone else in the Akkalan party who caught Sophitia's eye was a little girl. She appeared no older than ten or eleven years old, yet she was dressed like a knight and had a sword that appeared too large for her strapped to her back. At first Sophitia thought she must be the governor's daughter, but he had no children. Perhaps she was the daughter of some other Akkalan noble who planned to raise her as a knight.
The last governor in attendance was Chief Darote of the Goron Tribe, serving as the Governor of Eldin. He was much younger and much smaller than Grand Artisan Rodan, and his bushy white hair encircled his head like the mane of a lion. Like most of his kind, he had the look of a warrior and would likely be the equal of ten Hylians in combat. Out of all the governors, he had the fewest people in his party, due to the sheer size of the Gorons. From the railing of his balcony hung a banner with a red ruby proudly displayed upon it, the symbol of his tribe. While there were other tribes of Gorons in Holodrum and Labrynna, all the Gorons in Hyrule were considered to be of the same tribe, including those living in other provinces.
As Sophitia surveyed the room, she took down notes in her ledger, marking who was in attendance. She wanted to keep a perfect record of everything that happened at this meeting, as it would help her with whatever course of action she decided to take next. Just as she was finishing up, her other brother Lancel finally arrived with Sir Anselm, strolling into the chamber as if he took no issue with being one of the last to arrive. Like Sophitia and the rest of her siblings, Lancel wore his crown today. His was large and gaudy, polished to a bright sheen, with a ruby, a sapphire, and an emerald arranged in the pattern of the Triforce. He climbed the steps and walked past Sophitia to take his seat in the empty throne beside her. Sir Anselm, dressed in a cape and his usual dark black armor, took his place at his side.
"It is good of you to finally grace us with your presence, Brother," Percival said to Lancel as he sat down.
"I know, isn't it?" Lancel replied with a smirk. "You may all consider yourselves graced." Seraphina giggled and waved hello to him, while Victorique simply nodded.
Sophitia watched as her brother pulled out his own ledger and began jotting something down. "I've already made a note of those in attendance, Brother," she said, leaning closer to him. "Would you like a copy afterwards?" It felt silly to say, but for some reason she felt like she could brag about being one step ahead of him, and maybe it would make him regret arriving late.
"Ah, many thanks, my most studious of sisters! Or second most studious, at least. Certainly top three." Despite his acceptance, he continued writing anyway, perhaps taking note of something else.
They waited for a bit longer while the last of the lesser lords trickled in. Eventually, Grand Minister Malkori looked over his shoulder, and the king waved his hand, signaling for him to begin. Malkori stood up from his seat at the center of the Grand Council table and cleared his throat. "Lords and ladies who serve the realm, it is my utmost honor to welcome you all. We have come here on this day for the purpose of offering our counsel to His Royal Majesty, King Tychon Aldoranus Hyrule, so that he may determine the best course of action for the realm, and so that we may carry out his will. Our kingdom, while righteous and prosperous, faces many threats on the horizon, and these threats must be dealt with swiftly and effectively." The Grand Minister turned and extended an arm towards Governor Koridai. "First, we shall hear of the disturbance in the Hebra Province. Danton of House Koridai, Lord of Snowpeak and Governor of Hebra, if you please."
Governor Koridai stepped closer to the railing and cleared his throat as all eyes turned to him. "Your Grace, while many of the Rito people have met us with open wings, there are just as many who do not welcome our friendship. Allowing the tribal chieftains to elect a high chieftain has done little to ease the tensions between their many factions. I believe that if the high chieftain were to be appointed governor at any point, he would be killed by a rival chieftain in a matter of months. Following that, his replacement would immediately declare independence, as so many of the Rito still desire. Something must be done to quiet the unrest soon, or I fear this resistance could lead to open rebellion."
Sophitia took notes. As the governor finished speaking, she scanned the room. Her father sat there, looking almost uninterested. He would not be the first to speak up. Her father always listened to counsel first.
Should I speak, or should I wait and listen as well?
She was uncertain how best to impress her father in a situation like this. Emulating him might gain his favor, but perhaps being the first to offer a solution would better showcase her leadership abilities and willingness to take initiative.
"Who leads this 'resistance?'" her brother Percival asked, giving his attention to Governor Koridai.
The governor regarded him. "Over half the tribal chieftains oppose Hyrulean rule to some degree, but only a handful of them are vocal about it. The most fervent supporter of Rito independence is Revalco, Chief of the Falcon Tribe."
"Where is he?" Prince Percival continued questioning.
Governor Koridai tilted his head as one of his aides whispered into his ear. "His tribe inhabits the land north of Lake Totori, but he and most of the tribal chiefs nowadays spend their time in the city of Medoh, counseling the high chieftain."
"Do you have the forces necessary to take and hold the city?"
"Prince Percival," Victorique interrupted, addressing her brother with his title due to the current time and place. "I believe it is too early to be considering military intervention at this stage."
"I did not ask him to take Medoh," Percival replied, turning to his sister beside him. "I merely asked if he could."
Another aide was whispering into Koridai's ear. "We keep a garrison of troops in Medoh, but the majority of our forces are in Snowpeak. However, Medoh is built on a series of island cliffs jutting out of Lake Totori, with only wooden bridges connecting them to each other and to the mainland."
"And?" Percival asked.
"And the Rito can fly, Brother. Can you?" Lancel asked. All eyes turned to him, including a rather peeved-looking Percival. "It wouldn't matter if we outnumbered them ten to one. They'd simply cut the bridges down and laugh at us from across the lake."
"New bridges can be built," Percival stated plainly.
Lancel laughed. "While the Rito soar overhead taking shots with their bows? I hope our builders outnumber their arrows."
Percival looked frustrated, but before he could respond, Sophitia took the opportunity to step in. "It matters not how a siege of Medoh would be carried out. As the crown princess has said, military intervention is not necessary. I believe High Chieftain Kanelo is willing to work with us, correct? It would be easier to let him convince the other chieftains to accept his rule. Once they have, then we can talk about promoting him to governor."
"That sort of diplomacy has been tried with the Rito many times throughout the decades," General Alchon said, stepping up to the balcony railing beside Governor Vryciaro. "Try it if you must, but there is no sense in waiting until it fails to prepare our armies. They should be standing by waiting to move at the first sign of Rito aggression."
"I am inclined to agree," Governor Stylas declared. "If only Faron could spare any troops, I'd be saddling up to lead the charge myself."
Sophitia could not believe how easily the conversation drifted back to war.
Why even bother meeting like this if that is the only solution any of them will consider?
"Yes, yes, prepare all the troops you like," Lancel said, waving his hand impatiently. "It won't matter. You won't need them anyway."
"And I suppose you have a way to solve everything, Prince Lancel?" Percival asked skeptically.
Lancel smirked, stood up, and took a few steps towards the center in front of the royal thrones. "Chief Darote, would a Goron ever harm his brother?" he asked, directing his question to the Eldin balcony.
"Never," Darote declared. "I would sooner harm myself."
"Exactly," Percival said with a snap of his fingers. "The Rito are no different. We simply need to remind them that Hyruleans, as well as all Children of Nayru, are all one people, not just one ruling over the other."
"Do you speak of granting the governorship to the high chieftain immediately, Prince Lancel?" Victorique asked.
"No, Sister," Lancel replied. "Not yet."
"Then what is it that you suggest?" Sophitia asked.
"Botrick," Lancel went on, speaking over the railing down to the Grand Archivist. "How soon will the City in the Sky next pass over the Inner Continent?"
Sophitia was confused.
What does that have to do with anything?
"Hmm? Oh, yes, yes, uh…" The old man stirred, rocking his head as he worked out the answer. "Based on our last observations, I believe it was projected to arrive over the Tabantha Highlands within the fortnight."
"Where are you going with this?" Percival asked impatiently.
"Tsk, tsk." Lancel wagged his finger at him. "You need to study your history, Brother. Botrick, who inhabited the City in the Sky before the Oocca?"
"The Wind Tribe, my prince," the Grand Archivist answered. "It was a group made up of both Rito and Hylians - those who wished to return to the sky to live amongst the clouds as our great ancestors once did. Yes, but they were wiped out by the Demon Lord Vaati."
"Precisely!" Lancel snapped his fingers again. "The Rito and the Hylians share a common page in our history books, so to speak. We once lived together as one! That is what they must be reminded of. I propose a joint expedition made up of Hylians and Rito working together to reclaim the lost City in the Sky as it next passes over Hebra." Turning on his feet, he placed a hand to his chest and bowed to the king. "And I volunteer myself to lead this expedition."
Sophitia opened her eyes wide.
He's making his move already.
She realized she had been too passive thus far, and now her brother would likely take all the glory for resolving the Hebra situation.
I must claim the next one…
Murmurs spread throughout the room, some liking the idea, others skeptical of it. However, a dead silence soon overtook them as the king rose to his feet. "Does anyone object to Prince Lancel's proposal?" he asked.
"I do, Father," Percival said, raising his hand. "The City in the Sky means nothing to the Rito. The separatists want independence, not some floating ruins. This expedition would be a complete waste of time."
"You underestimate the symbolic value of the city, Prince Percival," Sophitia said. "The Rito would take great pride in recovering their ancestral homeland, and they will appreciate that we Hylians share their sentiment." The princess was not nearly as confident in what she was saying as she attempted to appear, but she trusted her elder brother's judgment. If it would avoid war, then it would be the preferable option.
"I am willing to support this expedition," Governor Koridai said. "But we must also prepare for the worst. If negotiations fail and war breaks out, I will need more troops than I have."
"Very well," King Tychon said. "We will discuss troop allocation once the situation in each province has been reviewed. Next item." The king sat back down.
Lancel smiled in self-satisfaction as he returned to his throne. "Much appreciated, little sister," he whispered to Sophitia.
"But of course." The princess had the thought that perhaps she should have tried to oppose Lancel's plan as Percival had done. They were supposed to be competing, after all. His proposal raised several questions, such as how the Hylians on the expedition were to even reach the floating city, and who would control it once it was secured. She jotted down a reminder to bring up these concerns later when they had their private meeting with their father.
Grand Minister Malkori stood again. "Thank you, lords and ladies. Next, we shall discuss the unrest within the Gerudo Province. Tauma of House Vapith, Lady of Taafei and Governor of Gerudo, you have the floor."
Governor Vapith stepped forward and placed her hands on the railing. "As with the Rito, the divide within the Gerudo is now worse than ever," she stated. "On one side, we have the Hylianites - those who support Hyrulean unification and share our faith in Hylia. But on the other, we have the Ganonites - those who support the old ways of the Gerudo. They want nothing less than complete independence from the kingdom, and they pray for the Demon Lord Ganon to return once again. Queen Urballa herself is a Ganonite, and she has recently sent yet another petition for the governorship of her province. No doubt a declaration of independence would soon follow - or a rebellion, should they not get their way."
So it is essentially the same problem as the Rito.
Sophitia looked over to the other side of the room, where Zora and Gorons stood upon the balconies. She found it odd that their peoples got along so well with hers and gladly remained a part of their unified kingdom, while the Rito and the Gerudo were mostly unwilling to do so. She supposed it made sense, though. Hebra was separated from the rest of Hyrule by the massive Tanagar Canyon, so it had not been absorbed into the kingdom during the Unification War like the other provinces had. It joined later, which meant its people hadn't had as much time to adjust. The Gerudo, on the other hand, were unfortunate enough to have had a truly evil king. It wasn't their fault they'd been misled by the lies of a demon.
"Do you have another archaeological expedition in mind to resolve this crisis as well, Prince Lancel?" Percival asked mockingly.
"No, that's alright, Brother," Lancel replied. "I'll just let you hit it with something until it's fixed."
In the gallery, the Sage of Light stood and cleared his throat. "If I may speak," he began. His voice was deep and authoritative, but somewhat raspy, revealing his many years. "The Gerudo's demon worship must not be ignored any longer. We all know where it leads. The last thing this kingdom needs is another Twilight War."
"Has the Sage of Spirit spoken out against demon worship?" Sophitia asked, directing her question to both Aurun and Vapith.
"No," Sage Aurun replied. "I have requested that she do so, but Sage Nashorla concerns herself with neither Hylia nor Ganon. Her only devotion is to Alkawbra and Nephysis."
Sophitia dug through her memory for knowledge of the Gerudo religion. Alkawbra was their current Patron, the Goddess of Spirit. Nephysis was their greater goddess who had long ago left this realm - the Goddess of the Sand who had supposedly walked the Earth in the same era as Hylia. The princess also noted that Aurun did not sound particularly fond of his fellow sage. According to the history books she had read, the original Six Sages had been a close-knit group, working together while remaining tied to this world as spirits for centuries. However, the current Nine Sages were almost all mortal beings, and they rarely collaborated. Sophitia had hoped to find a solution by appealing to the people's faith, but she couldn't see an obvious route to take.
"How closely has Queen Urballa followed the terms of your agreement with her, Governor Vapith?" Victorique asked.
"She appears to be following it to the letter," the governor responded. "However, she occasionally finds loopholes and exploits them. But more importantly, while she explicitly or implicitly forbids what we ask her to forbid, she has failed to adequately impede the spread of demon worship and promote Hyrulean unification."
"Is demon worship expressly banned per our agreement?" Percival asked.
"The queen and her royal government are disallowed from promoting it," Vapith explained. "She cannot have statues or places of worship constructed in its name, for example. But the Gerudo people may still individually worship as they please."
"It is better this way," Victorique explained. "Denying them that right would only lead to immediate open rebellion."
"I am well aware of that," Percival said, sounding calm but still somewhat defensive, as if he felt he was being talked down to. "But if it is not a reaction to any constraint we have placed upon them, why exactly is Ganon still gaining supporters? The Demon King has been dead for a hundred years."
"Hylia's been dead for much, much longer than that, and things are going pretty well for her," Lancel pointed out.
"Only her mortal form has passed," the Sage of Light corrected him. "Her Grace still lives on with the Golden Goddesses in the Sacred Realm."
Sophitia saw her younger sister smile. Both Seraphina and Victorique put their thumbs and forefingers together in the shape of a triangle, bowing their heads as if in acceptance of a prayer. "Governor Vapith," Victorique said after lifting her head. "How much sway does Queen Urballa's word have over her people?"
The governor considered the question for a moment. A few of her aides stepped to her side. They held a quick, hushed discussion before she spoke. "There are many who do not agree with her beliefs, and many who view her actions as lacking in conviction. However, most respect her as a good leader who cares for her people, and her armies strike fear into those who view her as an enemy."
"Grand Watcher," Percival spoke up. "Does the Gerudo queen have a proper army?"
"Yes," Socicila responded, his soft voice barely more than a whisper, but still able to be heard clearly throughout the council chamber. "A substantial one. Footsoldiers, camelry, mages. It is mostly stationed in Naboris, with smaller divisions at key points throughout their territory within the province."
"Then that is all the more reason for diplomacy," Victoique said. "Can Queen Urballa be reasoned with?" she asked, turning back to Governor Vapith.
The governor knit her brow. "The peace between our peoples has lasted this long only because of her cooperation," she said. "However, this peace has always been strained, and even if she wanted to, she may not be able to hold her people at bay much longer. Furthermore, she has grown persistent with her demands for my governorship to be transferred to her. Whether she will declare independence or not, she desires total control of the province."
"Perhaps it would be best to stall," the Grand Minister suggested. "Renegotiate a new agreement with Queen Urballa, but do not give up the governorship until she is succeeded by a Gerudo who is more loyal to the Kingdom of Hyrule."
Lancel chuckled. "And how long do you think it'll be before that happens?" he asked. "The voe is being raised to marry Urballa's daughter, is he not? He'll be the one to take Urballa's place, and no one hates Hyrule quite like Gerudo kings, do they?"
"But Sabah will be queen. She likes us. She wouldn't do anything to cause a fight," Seraphina interjected, her voice filled with childish optimism.
"This is true," Victorique agreed. "Princess Sabah has been known to attend services in Naboris at both the temple of Hylia and the temple of Nephysis. If her mother is not a suitable governor, perhaps she may one day be. Governor Vapith, do you believe Queen Urballa would be willing to give up her pursuit of the governorship in exchange for some concessions on our agreement?"
"She has been placated this way in the past," Vapith said with a nod. "As long as she sees progress toward her ultimate goal, yes, I believe it may work again. But as I've said, the Ganonite faction has strong support beyond just the queen. What may be enough to appease her will not be enough to appease all of them."
"If she cannot keep her people in line, then she is no worthy queen," Percival declared. He tried to give a subtle glance over to his father, probably hoping this statement would please him. The king had no visible reaction, but that certainly sounded like the sort of thing he might say.
Victorique ignored him. "Father, I would like to travel to Gerudo to discuss terms with Queen Urballa. We should station a military force outside their borders as a contingency, but I believe I can convince the Gerudo queen to bend the knee once again."
Sophitia's eyes went wide.
Again! I was too slow again!
There was no helping it, though. If she tried to jump in now, she would appear to be trying to take credit for her elder sister's ideas.
"And, if possible," Victorique went on. "I would like Princess Seraphina and the Sage of Light to accompany me. I believe their presence will be the key to drawing the support of the Hylianites."
"Yay! I wanna go, too!" Seraphina cheered her agreement.
Even my little sister is managing to beat me.
Sophitia stomached her disappointment and sat up straight, determined to stay focused and look for her next opportunity.
"Very well," King Tychon agreed. "Sage Aurun, you will accompany my daughters to Gerudo."
"Yes, Your Grace," the sage agreed. "I, too, believe my presence is necessary to help spread the good word of Hylia."
The king nodded, then looked over the room. "Any objections?" This time, no one spoke. The king's gaze traveled across the lords of Central Hyrule in the gallery before eventually landing on one in particular. "Lord Remoth."
All eyes silently turned to look at the man who had been addressed. Slowly, he stood up and rose to his full height, towering over his daughter sitting beside him, like a tall, dark pillar at the end of the room. "Yes, Your Grace?"
"Until the forces of Governor Koridai and Governor Vapith can be supplemented by reinforcements from the east, the armies of the Ridge will provide reserve support to both Hebra and Gerudo," the king commanded. "Divide your forces as you see fit, but prioritize Gerudo."
"It will be done, Your Grace." Lord Remoth bowed and took his seat again. As she watched him, Sophitia accidentally made eye contact with his daughter. Perhaps noticing the look of apprehension on her face, Mina smirked and winked at her, flashing that impish fang of hers. Sophitia furrowed her brow and looked away in bewilderment.
What an odd girl.
The Grand Minister stood once again to herald the next governor. Sophitia told herself she would jump at the next opportunity to take charge of a situation, but the next three provinces did not have any major grievances that she could take charge of. Faron was on edge about the Lynel horde amassing in the south, so Governor Stylas was not willing to spare any troops to help with the other provinces. He seemed confident his army and the adventurers he hired could handle the Lynels on their own, and Sophitia had no interest in monster slaying. Governor Bede of Ordona spoke only of poverty, but the Grand Treasurer offered the simple solution of recruiting more soldiers from the province with the promise of rupees in exchange for their service. Aunt Celessa had the fewest major issues to report, with the only urgent matter being the presence of the ice dragon atop Mount Lanayru, which overlooked Hateno. Since the mountain was technically Lanayru territory, she merely demanded that the Zora Dominion handle it.
"Miphela de Bon, Princess of the Zora Dominion, representing her father, Ralis de Bon, King of the Zora Dominion and Governor of Lanayru. You may proceed," Grand Minister Malkori announced.
Miphela cleared her throat. "My father sends his deepest apologies for not being able to be in attendance today, my lords and ladies," she began. "The Dominion faces a time of great turmoil of its own, and my father is quite preoccupied with managing it all." She turned to acknowledge Celessa. "I have heard your request, Governor Kochi, and I assure you, the Dominion will deal with the dragon before it causes any great harm. However, in addition, we have had an unprecedented rise in piracy from Blins attacking human ships traveling over our seas, a near unmanageable influx of humans from Holodrum and Labrynna settling around Lanayru Bay, and infighting of a grand scale in our undersea territories." Miphela turned to her brother and nodded to him.
Prince Silorn stepped forward holding a clay tablet. "Therefore, as decreed by our father, King Ralis de Bon, the Lanayru Province will spare neither troops nor resources to aid the other provinces until such time as our internal situation is settled, barring a direct royal decree from the King of Hyrule. In exchange, the Lanayru Province will request neither troops nor resources from the other provinces."
Upset murmuring spread throughout the court, even more so than when Governor Stylas said basically the same thing.
Damn. Another missed opportunity.
Sophitia would've gladly offered her assistance in some of these matters, but it seemed as though the Zora king was not accepting outside help at this time.
After some light questioning from some lords and council members, the statements of the Zora princess and prince were tentatively accepted. The Grand Minister moved on to the seventh governor. "Now, Rudi of House Vryciaro, Lord of Vigjaro and Governor of Akkala, we will hear your report."
Governor Vryciaro cleared his throat. "There is but one issue of great concern that requires resolution. Namazu, the God of Earthquakes, has chosen a Zora priestess by the name of Laverta to be his sage. This rogue sage claims that Namazu is the rightful god of the earth element, and she has set out on a campaign to take the Earth Temple from the true Earth Patron, Neshai, and his sage, Barsud. At first, Laverta had but a handful of followers, but worship of the earthquake god has grown into a full-blown cult that stretches from Ulria to Rist. They will not rest until Sage Barsud has been removed from the Earth Temple and Laverta has taken his place."
This is my chance.
Sophitia had been following this conflict, though not as closely as some others, and it seemed to have progressed further than she had realized. However, as it was a conflict of the gods, this was a problem that she could get some real recognition for solving, and she believed herself well equipped to handle it.
"Have you spoken with this earthquake sage, Governor?" she asked.
"I have, Princess," Vryciaro answered. "I commanded her to cease her campaign, but she does not recognize my authority when dealing with matters of the gods, and she holds her beliefs with great conviction."
"On what grounds does Laverta claim Namazu is the rightful Patron of Earth?" Percival asked, steepling his fingers.
"According to her, Namazu has been directly aiding the people of the province for some time," Governor Vryciaro explained. "She believes Neshai's infrequent appearances in our realm are proof enough that he cares less for us than Namazu does."
"The bull god appears about as frequently as Laemora," Percival pointed out, noting that the city's own Patron of Light had not been seen in a few years.
"Aye," the Goron chief Darote said in agreement. "It proves nothing. Lord Neshai has important duties to attend to. Sage Barsud was chosen to oversee things in his absence. This false sage is a liar and a cheat, end of story."
"Not to mention, it would be rather outlandish for a god like Namazu, who chooses the form of a giant catfish, to be the God of Earth," Lancel said with a grin.
Sophitia saw the look of bewilderment on her bodyguard's face. "The gods are fuckin' weird," Liliana whispered to her.
"Speaking of the Sage of Earth," Sophitia spoke up, suppressing a laugh. "Has he attempted to contact his patron to request an audience with him? If Neshai's long absence is causing his followers to lose faith, surely this can be remedied by even a brief appearance in our realm."
"Barsud claims he has spent much time praying in the Spring of Power for just that reason," Governor Vryciaro replied. "However, while the god speaks to him on occasion, he has not appeared in material form."
"I see," Sophitia said. She was actually quite glad the problem had not resolved itself already. That meant it was still open for her to solve. "Well, if the rogue sage will not listen to the Sage of Earth, and she will not listen to the governor of her province, perhaps she will listen to a member of the royal family," she suggested. "I would very much like to speak with her, if possible." Sophitia did her best to conceal her self-satisfied smile.
This is it.
"We are well past the time for negotiation," Uncle Alchon said, standing beside Governor Vryciao. "Laverta's cultists are armed and dangerous. Their presence is now a rebel insurgency, and they have already begun clashing with the kingdom's armies and the earth sage's supporters."
What? No!
"This is true," the governor confirmed. "The other provinces may need the support of our armies some time in the future, but Akkala is in need of it now. War is upon us already. I come here today to formally request additional troops to help deal with this cult."
"Then perhaps I shall go to Akkala," Percival stated. Lancel chuckled lightly, but Percival ignored him. "Rather than sending an envoy to negotiate, I shall bring a few divisions of Central Hyrule's reserve troops to command them on the battlefield."
Damn you, Brother…
Sophitia knew she couldn't sigh in frustration like she wanted to, so instead she merely turned to Liliana unhappily. Her bodyguard nodded with a sympathetic look on her face that seemed to say 'I know, I know…'
"I agree," Victorique interjected. "Laverta and her followers gave up their opportunity to end this peacefully when they chose to take up arms against the kingdom. We must show them the error of their ways, and our pact with the Nine Patrons must be upheld."
Of course you'd say that.
Percival and Victorique often spoke similarly in front of their father, especially in regard to matters of war and dealing with traitors. Sophitia couldn't exactly blame them since they were probably right about the correct course of action in this case, but it still felt like they were sweeping her off to the side and ignoring her suggestion.
"However, it should not just be Hylian troops that deal with the situation in Akkala," Percival continued. "The Gorons and the Zora should contribute to the effort as well." He glanced at Chief Darote, and then at Princess Miphela.
"Sage Barsud is a brother of the Goron Tribe," Darote proclaimed, tapping his chest with his fist. "We will stand and fight beside him, on our honor as warriors." This came as no surprise. The Gorons were notoriously protective of their own, even beyond their borders.
The Zora princess was less enthusiastic about the proposal. "My apologies, Prince Percival," Miphela said, looking confused. "But it was my understanding that we were already in agreement. The Dominion cannot spare any troops at the moment."
"It matters not," Alchon replied. "The combined forces of Akkala, Eldin, and the reserves from the capital should be more than enough to route this insurgency as it stands."
"That is nonsense," a voice from behind the general spoke up. Some people down in the gallery strained their necks, trying to see who was talking. The little girl dressed like a knight who Sophitia had noticed earlier walked up to the balcony railing, standing beside the governor. "Do you not see the prince's point? It is not a matter of how large a force is required. This is a feud between Gorons and Zora. It should be Gorons and Zora who take responsibility for it." The little girl's voice was high-pitched and childish, but haughty and commanding.
I wonder if that's how I sounded at that age...
Miphela and Silorn looked the girl up and down, visibly confused. "Um…" Miphela seemed unable to come up with a response.
"As my sister has said," Prince Silorn jumped in. "We simply cannot spare any of our forces for this matter. Moreover, Laverta is a citizen of the Akkala Province. She is not the responsibility of Lanayru."
"Nonsense!" the girl repeated. "She's your flesh and blood. If I were out there leading a rebellion against our kingdom, would you expect the Kokiri Tribe to sit idly by, doing nothing about it?"
Kokiri Tribe?
Just as the young girl's words started to make sense, a small, winged, glowing ball of light flew out of the girl's clothing. The fairy hovered by the girl's head for a moment while she stared down the Zora prince and princess from across their balconies. The fairy then made a noise like the ringing of a bell and disappeared back into the girl's clothes.
Sophitia was amazed. She had thought that the girl-knight was some lord's daughter playing dress-up, but as a Kokiri, she was probably a few hundred years old.
Since when do the Kokiri leave their forest? Or become knights?
"That is enough, Dame Mila," General Alchon said. "It is not your place to speak to royalty in such a manner."
The Kokiri knight glared at Sophitia's uncle, then reluctantly bowed her head. "Apologies, my lord." She shuffled back to where the other Akkalan knights were standing, pouting to the point where she truly did look like an eleven-year-old.
Alchon then glared at Governor Vryciaro, no doubt silently reminding him to control his retainers better. "Please accept my apologies as well," the governor said. "However, she does bring up a valid point. The Gorons have already pledged their assistance. I believe it would be prudent for the Zora to do so as well, as a show of good faith."
"Agreed," Prince Percival interjected. "Princess Miphela, Prince Silorn. I don't care how few you send, you will send someone." He spoke authoritatively, as if he expected his orders to have as much weight as his father's.
Miphela looked troubled. "A moment, please, my prince." She stepped back and huddled together with her brother and some of their aides, whispering a hushed conversation. Sophitia could barely hear them, but they were speaking the Zora language, which she had some difficulty understanding. After a moment, the Zora siblings returned. "We shall speak to our father on this matter. I am certain we can accommodate this request somehow," Princess Miphela announced.
Percival had a very self-satisfied look on his face. "Good. See that you do."
After the matter of Akkala was settled, the court moved on to discuss the Eldin Province, and then opened up the floor to any Central Hyrulean lords that had problems of their own that required attention. Sophitia saw a few opportunities, but nothing as grand as the problems her siblings would be tackling, so she did not offer her help.
It will be pointless if I don't do something that will set me apart from them.
By the time the summit was over and she and her siblings were dismissed, Sophitia was greatly disappointed. Her brothers and sisters were poised to garner great accomplishments that would impress their father and make them more likely to be named the next ruler of the kingdom, yet she had nothing. However, she was not without hope.
I have an idea...
There was still a way to salvage the situation - a way to prove her worth to her father and her value to the kingdom while making herself stick out amongst her siblings.
"Where to next, Princess?" Liliana asked, following behind her charge as Sophitia briskly walked to the exit.
"The library. There is work to be done," she replied, stepping through some double doors.
"What work?"
"Hebra," she said simply.
"Hebra?" Liliana repeated. "I thought your brother was going to be working on Hebra."
"He is." Sophitia smiled at her bodyguard. "And I'm going to take it from him."