Dragon's Dogma 2 announced! Finally!


Sending this out early due to my exams. Remember meeeeee!

Skyward Sword reference!


Chapter 3: Ruin and Renewal

As the elevator ascended Babel, Link and Zelda stood side by side, the hum of machinery surrounding them. Zelda's curiosity piqued as she observed the intricate workings of the contraption, capturing the details with her Purah Pad. She snapped a few pictures, hoping to analyze them later and perhaps learn something new.

With a satisfied smile, Zelda tucked away her device and returned her focus to the handbook she had obtained from the Guild. It contained a wealth of supplementary information on various topics, including magic and the ominous Dungeon itself. She delved into its pages, absorbing the knowledge and preparing herself for their upcoming tasks.

"I hope we can find someone capable of repairing the Master Sword," Zelda remarked, glancing at the damaged blade resting in its sheath at Link's backside. "And it's crucial that we locate a skilled doctor or healer to examine you. Your well-being is of utmost importance. Of course, let's not forget to replenish our energy with a good meal as well."

Link nodded in agreement, his expression conveying gratitude and weariness. He trusted Zelda's judgment and knew that seeking the right professionals would aid him in his journey. His mind also couldn't help but wander to the mention of food. They had been on the road for some time, and another nourishing meal would undoubtedly rejuvenate their spirits.

Their first priority was to find someone capable of repairing the Master Sword, and Eina had mentioned two noteworthy Familia that might be able to assist them: the Hephaestus Familia and the Goibniu Familia. Given their proximity to the Hephaestus Familia's store, Link and Zelda agreed to make it their first destination.

As the elevator doors slid open, Link and Zelda found themselves in a grand hallway adorned with opulence and luxury. The walls were bathed in a golden hue, and every step they took seemed to resonate with the richness of the surroundings. Lining the hallway were exquisite displays showcasing a vast array of weapons, armors, and enchanting artifacts.

The weapons gleamed with impeccable craftsmanship, each blade expertly forged and adorned with intricate designs. Armor sets of various styles and materials stood proudly, their polished surfaces reflecting the ambient light. Enchanting artifacts, pulsating with magical energy, held an air of mystery and power.

Zelda's eyes widened as she beheld the remarkable collection before her. She approached one of the displays, Purah Pad in hand to record intricate engravings on a gleaming sword. The attention to detail and the sheer beauty of the weaponry was breathtaking.

"This is extraordinary." Zelda complimented the equipment on display. "Such craftsmanship... It's as if each piece tells its own story."

Link's nod indicated his acknowledgement of the impressive craftsmanship on display, but his true focus remained unwavering. The glimmer in his eyes was not driven by a desire to possess the extravagant weapons and armors before him. He had learned from experience that his heroic endeavors often led to the destruction of lesser weapons, making their high price tags a discouraging factor.

Instead, Link's gaze shifted beyond the alluring displays, his thoughts centered on their primary objectives. The repair of his damaged Master Sword and finding a skilled healer or doctor were of utmost importance.

"Looking at the prices... Hm, I'm not sure if there's even a currency exchange. We didn't bring any Rupees," Zelda pondered aloud, her brow furrowing with concern. "That brings up our monetary issues, which expand to the likes of accommodations..."

The unfamiliar realm presented new challenges, including the need to navigate its financial landscape. Without the local currency, their options for securing necessary provisions and lodgings were limited.

"Come to think of it," Zelda mused, her voice filled with contemplation, "these adventurers... They make their living by entering this Dungeon of sorts to harvest resources and magic stones from the environment and monsters. I'm sure you're overqualified on that matter."

Link's expression remained stoic, his eyes reflecting the depth of his experiences and the weight of his journey. Having traversed countless dungeons and confronted formidable foes, he had grown in strength and resilience. Each trial had tested his mettle, allowing him to recover not only his physical prowess but also the fragments of his lost memories.

"Well, let's think about that later." Zelda interrupted her train of thought, shaking her head slightly. "Our priority now is to get your Master Sword to an expert. Its restoration is crucial."

Link nodded in agreement, recognizing the significance of his weapon's repair. The Master Sword held a deep connection to the fate of Hyrule, and its restoration was paramount for the challenges that lay ahead.

"Let's go look for someone belonging to the Hephaestus Familia," Zelda suggested, her voice resolute. "Their expertise in crafting and forging may provide us with the solution we seek. Let's find an expert who can assess the damage and restore the Master Sword to its former glory."

/-/

Tsubaki Collbrande, Captain of the Hephaestus Familia, took a moment to relax and stretch her tired muscles. Having diligently worked through the night to complete a client's weapon order, she relished this brief respite before immersing herself in the next task at hand.

As she loosened up her hands and arms, a member of the Hephaestus Familia approached her with a sense of urgency. The tone in their voice conveyed a hint of uncertainty and intrigue, piquing Tsubaki's curiosity.

"Captain," a familia member called out, seeking her attention.

Tsubaki turned towards them, her expression attentive. "Yes? What is it?"

"There's a customer who wishes to have a weapon repaired. However, there's something... unique about it. It possesses an aura that feels..." The familia member hesitated briefly, "Divine. I believe it would be wise for you to personally assess it and maybe consult with Hephaestus herself."

Tsubaki's interest was instantly piqued. She understood the significance of such a request. The Hephaestus Familia was renowned for their expertise in crafting and repairing weapons, and encountering an item that held a distinctive energy was a rare occurrence.

"Divine? Interesting… Very well," Tsubaki replied with a decisive nod. "Lead the way. Let's see what they brought."

Tsubaki approached the store front with a measured stride, her eyes quickly focusing on the two Elves standing before her. Her sharp gaze analyzed their appearances, taking note of the dazzling beauty of the young lady and the warrior-like aura exuding from the boyish young man. As she drew closer, a subtle intuition tugged at her senses, hinting at a trace of divinity emanating from the young lady and another enigmatic energy resonating from the sword hilt visible within the young man's grasp.

"Welcome to the Hephaestus Familia's store," Tsubaki greeted them, her voice carrying a tone of authority softened by genuine hospitality. "The names Tsubaki. How may I assist you today?" Her attention shifted momentarily towards the sword, its blue decorated hilt catching her eye once again. Tsubaki's curiosity burned brighter, as if drawn to the faint enigmatic energy emitting from the weapon. "And I must say," Tsubaki continued, her voice tinged with a blend of admiration and intrigue, "that sword you hold carries an intriguing energy. If you're seeking repairs or any form of assistance with it, you've come to the right place. Hephaestus Familia specializes in weapon craftsmanship and restoration. We take great pride in our ability to breathe new life into even the most extraordinary blades."

"My name is Zelda, and this is Link," Zelda greeted Tsubaki with a polite nod, a hint of intrigue evident in her voice. "It's a pleasure to meet you. We are indeed seeking your assistance in repairing a weapon."

Tsubaki's gaze sharpened as Link drew the blade from its scabbard, revealing a sight that both fascinated and troubled her. The flickering energy that emanated from the sword's surface was unmistakable, but it carried a sense of dwindling power, like a once blazing ember now fading to a feeble glow. The physical evidence of the sword's state was impossible to ignore—the shattered fragments and dark marks that tainted its surface, signs of decay and corrosion.

"Yikes..." Tsubaki couldn't help but utter, her voice laced with a mix of concern and intrigue.

Her gaze remained fixed on the damaged weapon, her trained eyes scrutinizing its shattered form and the dark marks that marred its surface. This was no ordinary repair job; it was a profound quest to revive a weapon that had faced immense challenges. The restoration would demand not only exceptional craftsmanship but also a deep understanding of the sword's history, its nature, and the powers that coursed through it—powers that extended far beyond mortal comprehension.

Tsubaki's pondered the words that resonated in her mind, words she had only heard once or twice from her own deity. They were words that could remotely describe the essence of the Master Sword.

"A divine weapon," Tsubaki murmured softly, her voice carrying a deep reverence.

She understood the significance of the sword before her, recognizing it as more than just a weapon. It was a vessel of divine energy.

"Yes. The Master Sword," Zelda said somberly. "The legendary sword that seals the darkness. The Master Sword of Resurrection... I suppose you've never heard of it?"

Tsubaki shook her head, her curiosity piqued. "Fraid not. Sheesh. I can feel it. Your sword has been through a lot. More than an Elf's entire lifespan. A divine weapon before me. Wow... And in this state too..." She paused for a moment, her thoughts racing. "I... I believe we will need the guidance of Hephaestus herself. My skills, as much as I'd like to think highly of them, may not be sufficient to make sense of such a blade. This is a task that requires the wisdom and insight of the divine."

While she possessed a deep passion for challenges and a love for her craft, she knew that the repair of the Master Sword was beyond her current capabilities. Its divine nature and the intricacies of its history required a level of expertise and insight that she simply did not possess.

Zelda nodded understandingly. "Thank you, Tsubaki. We appreciate your honesty."

"Not a problem. It's a smith's pride and honor," Tsubaki assured Zelda with a determined expression. She then called out to a nearby member of the Hephaestus Familia, raising her voice. "Oi! Someone, fetch Hephaestus!" Turning her attention back to Link, Tsubaki's eyes sparkled with curiosity. "So, you're the wielder of this masterpiece? Silent fellow, ain't ya? What's your story with the blade?"

/-/

"Sorry, kid. Maybe when you're stronger," the familia representative said, closing the door with finality.

Bell let out a dejected sigh and glanced down at the sheet of familias that Eina had provided him. It was the twentieth familia that had turned him away, yet the rejections did little to quell his dreams and aspirations. Despite the setbacks, he knew that there were still opportunities out there for him.

There was nothing he can do but go forward!

With his spirits slightly lifted, Bell set off to continue his search, determined to find a familia that would accept him.

As Bell continued his search for a familia that would accept him, his ears caught snippets of faint and frantic gossip circulating among the people of Orario. Whispers of powerful monsters suddenly appearing in the far west and northwest regions of the city reached his ears, igniting a spark of curiosity and concern within him.

"Have you heard?"

Bell caught a fragment of a conversation as he passed by a group of people.

"There's report from travelers that the entire Alv Mountains is..." another voice chimed in, their words muffled by the surrounding noise.

"Northwest of the city..." a third person whispered; their voices barely audible over the bustling streets.

"... it's causing an uproar amongst the Elves."

The rumors spoke of creatures that surpassed the strength and ferocity of anything previously encountered outside of the Dungeon. Tales of villages being decimated and experienced adventurers being defeated sent shivers down Bell's spine.

His thoughts turned to the rural village he once called home. Nestled within the mountains north of Orario, he hoped that the villagers were safe from the supposed incursion of these powerful monsters. Memories of his peaceful life in the village flooded his mind, fueling his determination to become stronger and protect those who couldn't defend themselves.

With a determined glint in his eyes, Bell held steadfast to his dream of becoming a hero. His aspirations encompassed more than just slaying mighty monsters and protecting others; he yearned for the adventurous life and the thrill of exploring the depths of the Dungeon, just like his idol, Link. Though he couldn't help but feel a tinge of uncertainty when it came to the "picking up girls" part of the hero equation.

'I'll be a hero!' he reaffirmed to himself, a mixture of excitement and determination coursing through his veins. He knew the path ahead wouldn't be easy, but his unwavering spirit and unyielding belief in his own potential propelled him forward.

The vivid image of himself adorned in gleaming armor, brandishing a mighty weapon, and fearlessly confronting perilous challenges fueled Bell's every step forward. While he acknowledged that this vision might be somewhat of a delusion, he couldn't help but hold onto the possibility that it could become a tangible reality. It was a dream that held a pure and unwavering essence, motivating him to push forward with unwavering determination.

With the hope of finding a familia by the end of the day, Bell pressed on, driven by the desire to have something to showcase to Link and Zelda when they reunited at the Guild. Even if it was a small accomplishment, he yearned to impress them and prove that he was making progress on his heroic journey.

/-/

Back at Babel, within the Hephaestus Familia's shop, Tsubaki and Zelda sat together, sharing a moment of laughter as they looked at the pictures Zelda had in her Purah Pad.

The images captured daring adventures of Link's and carried stories that brought amusement to both of them. Despite their seemingly different backgrounds and personalities, one being a supposed Elf or Goddess in disguise, and the other a Half-Dwarf, they appeared to get along remarkably well.

Meanwhile, Link remained silent but not unnoticed, swiftly devouring entire trays of food that Tsubaki had taken from the Hephaestus Familia's mess hall. His voracious appetite was evident as his stomach growled loudly, prompting Tsubaki to provide him with a generous portion to satisfy his hunger. The sound of his chewing and the clinking of cutlery filled the air as he indulged in the hearty meal, appreciating the sustenance after his long journey.

"Wahaha! Talk about showing off!" Tsubaki exclaimed, slapping the stone table with amusement as she wiped a tear from her eyes.

Zelda grinned mischievously and moved on to the next image. "Oh, that one was tamed compared to this one."

She displayed a series of selfies featuring Link's encounter with a formidable blue-maned Lynel. The first picture captured Link's confident smile as the Lynel charged at him with a deadly Lynel Spear.

In the next image, Link tilted his head and adjusted the camera position skillfully, narrowly avoiding a massive fire arrow whizzing past him.

The third image portrayed the Lynel in a state of rage, bull-charging at Link with its face blurred and dangerously close to him.

Finally, the last picture showcased the Lynel defeated and sprawled sideways on the grassy ground, while a triumphant Link proudly held the giant Lynel Spear and its bow.

"Hoh! What an interesting monster!" Tsubaki exclaimed with a wide grin, intrigued by the giant weapons wielded by the Lynel. "It looks very strong, not to mention intelligent to use weapons like that!"

Tsubaki pondered the origin of those colossal weapons. Were they crafted by humans, or were they inherent to the monster itself? The design and construction seemed different from the landform weapons often used by Dungeon monsters, raising intriguing possibilities.

"Lynels possess intense intelligence, resilience, and strength," Zelda explained. "They're considered one of the most fearsome creatures in our realm. What makes them even more terrifying is their natural resistance to all elements."

"Wow, they sound like formidable opponents," Tsubaki remarked, "To possess such intelligence and strength, along with resistance to all elements…"

At that moment, the room was filled with an aura of divinity as Hephaestus herself made her grand entrance. The Goddess, with her crimson eye and fiery red hair cascading down to her neck, commanded attention with her sharp features and slender figure. Her eyepatch over her right eye added a touch of mystery to her already captivating presence.

"Tsubaki. I'm here. What's the mat...?" Hephaestus began, but her words trailed off as her gaze shifted from Zelda to the Master Sword that had captured her attention. Her eye widened in shock and disbelief, her voice trembling with a mix of horror and outrage. "Wh-wh-what happened to that sword?!" she exclaimed, her divine presence filling the room. "A-a divine weapon of th-this quality...! Vitiated like this!"

Hephaestus's reaction spoke volumes about the significance and value of the Master Sword, leaving an air of tension and urgency in the room.

"Ah..." Both Zelda and Tsubaki spoke up simultaneously, caught off guard by Hephaestus's swift reaction.

Before they could fully explain, the Goddess had already moved to Link's side, her gaze fixated on the damaged Master Sword. Link raised an eyebrow, observing Hephaestus as she carefully scanned over the blade, her hands hovering near it but not daring to touch it.

"Three... No, four? Five? Four." Hephaestus muttered, her words becoming a jumble of ramblings that even Tsubaki, with her enhanced hearing, struggled to decipher.

Hephaestus delved deeper into her examination. The weight of her divine presence seemed to intensify, filling the room with a palpable sense of focus and purpose. The others watched in anticipation, their eyes fixed on the Goddess, waiting for her expert analysis and guidance.

Zelda marveled at the presence of a true Goddess standing before her. The unmistakable aura of divinity emanated from Hephaestus, yet she appeared disguised in the form of a mortal, as if she had deliberately chosen to limit herself so as not to overwhelm those around her. It was a humbling realization, reminding Zelda of the immense power and responsibility that the Gods and Goddesses carried.

In that moment, Zelda couldn't help but wonder about the reasons behind this choice. Was it to prevent their mere presence from causing harm to mortals? Or perhaps it was a way to better understand and connect with the world they governed.

"Ahem! Lady Hephaestus," Tsubaki called out, trying to bring her back to the present moment. However, the Goddess appeared lost in her thoughts, her mind seemingly drifting to the realm of the heavens. Undeterred, Tsubaki raised her voice once more. "Lady Hephaestus!"

"Tsubaki! Can't you see I'm... Ah, my apologies," Hephaestus composed herself and straightened her posture, regaining her usual air of authority and confidence. She let out an embarrassed chuckle, recognizing her momentary lapse. "My apologies. I seemed to have gotten lost in my own musings."

"That's an understatement." Tsubaki said with amusement. "Seeing your reaction just now, I don't think I need to explain why I called you here."

"Indeed, the state of this divine weapon speaks volumes," Hephaestus replied, her voice carrying a touch of sadness. She directed her gaze towards Link and Zelda, her crimson eye studying them intently. "A divine weapon of this caliber should not exist in the mortal realm. I'm curious to know how it found its way here, how you came to possess it, and most importantly, how did it end up in such a dire state."

"It's a rather long story, Lady Hephaestus," Zelda began, turning towards Link. "I suppose we can provide you with a simplified version that led up to this moment."

Hephaestus took a moment to study Zelda, sensing the diluted divinity that lingered in the air around her. The Hylian was not a Goddess, but there was undoubtedly a trace of divinity within her, albeit diluted. The realization intrigued Hephaestus, adding another layer of complexity to the situation at hand.

"… Let's discuss this further in my office. Tsubaki, make sure no one disturbs us."

/-/

Hephaestus, the Goddess of Smithing, listened intently as Zelda recounted the events that led to their current predicament. The story unfolded, revealing the exploration of an ancient underground ruin, the awakening of an evil entity, and the subsequent confrontation that left Link, Zelda's knight, weakened and the Master Sword in a state of decay. It was a concise summary of their journey, but Hephaestus knew there was much more to uncover.

"… and that's how we ended up here." Zelda concluded.

Zelda's presence is also a great mystery. As a mortal possessing a sliver of innate divine essence, her existence defied conventional understanding. However, being a divine being comes with the ability to discern lies and the Goddess conducted a series of tests on Zelda prior to their conversation as Gods cannot detect lies from other Gods.

The tests were brief but thorough, designed to gauge the authenticity of Zelda's words and intentions. Hephaestus observed her closely, searching for any signs of deception or hidden motives. Yet, to her surprise, Zelda's words held true. There was no trace of falsehood in her demeanor or the information she shared.

Which makes her tale all the more shocking and frightening.

Hephaestus's attention shifted to the Decayed Master Sword, resting delicately on her desk. As a Goddess of Smithing, the sight stirred a mix of emotions within her—sadness for the state of such a sacred artifact, curiosity about the extent of the damage, and an unyielding determination to restore its former glory.

Hephaestus had an innate affinity for craftsmanship and the restoration of artifacts, and the state of the Master Sword presented both a challenge and an opportunity.

Though she was genuinely interested in hearing the full details of their story, at this moment, her focus shifted primarily to the weapon itself. The intricacies of its design, the divine energy contained within, and the potential for restoration fascinated her.

"I see the extent of the damage," Hephaestus murmured, her voice laced with a tinge of sorrow. Her eyes lingered on the Decayed Master Sword. She couldn't help but feel a deep sense of reverence and respect for the weapon that had faced such formidable challenges. "I can't say much about the entity you've faced," Hephaestus continued, her voice steady but filled with a solemn weight. "But for it to cause this kind of damage to a divine weapon of such significance... It speaks volumes about its power and the threat it poses."

She paused for a moment, her mind racing with possibilities and implications. The sheer power required to inflict such damage on a divine weapon left her both intrigued and concerned. The entity they had faced must have possessed immense strength and abilities that rivaled the Gods.

She's going to have to inform Ouranos about this.

There's also the inherit danger of restoring a divine weapon in the lower world. It's the risk of collateral damage, though something tells her that the Master Sword is incapable of such a thing.

"..." Link let out a heavy sigh, a mix of regret and contemplation in his breath.

His thoughts danced with the what-ifs and the possibilities of a different outcome. Was there an alternative he could have taken to alter the course of events? If he could have made different choices to prevent the damage inflicted upon the sacred weapon?

Zelda's hand rested gently on Link's shoulder, her touch conveying both comfort and a hint of guilt. She couldn't help but feel a sense of guilt for the role she played in his injuries. She understood the weight he carried, the burden of always prioritizing her safety above all else. It was a responsibility he had shouldered countless times before, and yet it pained her to see him suffer the consequences once again.

In that fateful encounter with the evil entity, Link had placed her well-being above his own, as he had done so many times in their shared journey. It was a testament to his unwavering devotion and selflessness, but it also meant that he had paid a steep price for their safety.

"I want to make something very clear. I cannot guarantee that I can restore a weapon like this, but I'll be foolish if I were to not take this opportunity to at least try and understand it." Hephaestus positioned herself in front of the Decayed Master Sword, her long black gloves firmly in place. With a focused expression, she prepared herself for the task ahead. "Let's get started. I'll be examining the blade." As her crimson eye met Link's expectant gaze, she could sense the weight of anticipation in the air. "May I?"

Link nodded deeply, granting her permission to handle the revered weapon. "You may."

"So, you can talk," she remarked with small smile tugging at her lips. An attempt to lighten the crestfallen mood that had settled over them.

With utmost care, she extended her gloved hand and gently grasped the Decayed Master Sword, its hilt fitting comfortably in her palm.

As Hephaestus held the Decayed Master Sword in her hands, a surge of divine energy enveloped her. The aura of her divinity condensed along the blade, forming a pale radiant aura that pulsed with power. Her crimson eye narrowed, focusing on every detail of the sword's intricate design. Despite its deteriorated state, she could sense the dormant strength that lay within, waiting to be awakened.

Continuing her assessment, she sensed a presence within the divine blade, a subtle yet undeniable energy. Hephaestus let out a soft gasp.

It was a spirit slumbering within the sword, gradually regaining its vitality.

The spirit's essence intertwined with the sword's ancient power, blending together to form a unique and enigmatic force. She felt a flicker of consciousness, a fragment of an entity that had been bound to the sword. It briefly awakened, responding to the recognition of a divine presence.

"Identifying the domain of divinity… Acknowledging intent. Limited access granted."

Zelda's eyes widened in recognition; her astonishment evident. She had heard this voice before, a voice that had guided her when she placed Link in the Shrine of Resurrection. Hephaestus also shared a similar sense of astonishment, her curiosity piqued by the permanent incorporation of a spirit into the Master Sword.

Meanwhile, Link remained unfazed, a calm expression on his face. Deep within him, a sense of familiarity stirred. He felt an inexplicable connection to the voice, as if he had known it intimately all along.

The spirit emitted a gentle, ethereal sound that resonated in the room, capturing the attention of all three present. It was the voice within the Master Sword, an echo from its storied past.

As the sound permeated the air, a surge of energy enveloped them, carrying the echoes of the sword's origin and the legendary journey it had undertaken. They could feel the divine essence imbued within the sword, forged by a Goddess, bestowed to her chosen hero, bathed in three Sacred Flames, and blessed by the very deity who had once wielded its power. The weight of its awe-inspiring legacy hung in the air, filling the room with a sense of reverence and ancient power.

Then the chiming faded, putting an end to the surge of energy that had surrounded them. The room returned to its usual stillness, the echoes of the sword's history lingering in their minds.

Hephaestus gently placed the Decayed Master Sword back on her desk and took a moment to gather her thoughts.

"The Master Sword's condition may have deteriorated, but it is in a state of slow recovery," Hephaestus explained, her voice filled trembling slightly.

Zelda's eyes widened as she tried to find the right words. "That was... an embodiment of the sword's origins," she finally managed to say.

"It was an epitome of this weapon's beginning," Hephaestus affirmed, her eyes fixed on the Decayed Master Sword. "As for the sword's recovery, it is difficult to determine an exact timeline. The process is gradual and can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the strength of the spirit within."

"Do you have any means to expedite its recovery?" Asked Zelda, a hint of concern in her voice. "We have pressing matters to attend to, and the Master Sword's power is crucial to our mission."

Hephaestus paused, contemplating the question. "While I possess considerable knowledge and skill when it comes to forging, the recovery of a divine weapon is a complex matter. Especially of this caliber." She let out a sigh, her expression filled with frustration and admiration. "I hate to say this, but even if I were to take this to Heaven and use my full power, I don't believe I can replicate its true potential it had." Her eyes shifted to the Decayed Master Sword. "The creation of the Master Sword involved a series of specific and unique requirements, a convergence of divine elements and blessings that cannot be easily replicated or imitated. It's what gave this weapon its exceptional nature."

Her answer made Link and Zelda realize the gravity of the situation. The Master Sword, with all its power and history, was not something that could be easily restored. They exchanged worrying glances.

"Then…"

"However, the spirit within the sword revealed, or rather, we heard, the foundations of its creation." Hephaestus interjected. Her gaze fixed on the Decayed Master Sword. "There's a way to restore it, but we'll need permission and help."

A spark of hope ignited within Link and Zelda's hearts. They knew that their journey to restore the Master Sword would be arduous, but they were determined to rise to the challenge. They'll survived and overcame their darkest moments, and they'll do so again.

"Will you help us?"

"For a price."

"?!"

Hephaestus's initial statement left Link and Zelda tense, their minds racing to find a solution to the potential monetary demand. However, her following words brought immense relief and gratitude. Her chuckle filled the room, breaking the tension.

"Is what I would say if it were any other situation," Hephaestus clarified, a playful glint in her eye. "There's no price in the world that can be put on a divine weapon. If there was, the entire lower world would be drowning in Valis," she added, rolling her eyes. "Although the Gods of Wealth would be ecstatic about that. No, being able to witness and participate in restoring this masterpiece is both the price and reward for me."

Link and Zelda couldn't help but smile, grateful for Hephaestus's understanding and generosity. The weight of a potential financial burden had been lifted, allowing them to fully focus on their mission to restore the Master Sword.

"Thank you, Lady Hephaestus," Zelda said, her voice filled with genuine gratitude. She bowed deeply, and Link followed suit. "Words cannot express our gratitude for your assistance and willingness to help us on this crucial quest."

"Think nothing of it," she replied, her tone casual yet sincere. "I recognize the significance of an artifact like the Master Sword and the importance of restoring it." Her expression turned serious, a flicker of solemnity in her eyes. "I heard it very briefly when the spirit communicated with us. It revealed glimpses of its original purpose: to combat a being whose strength rivaled that of the Gods."

Throughout her entire existence, she had never heard about such an entity, but the description of this particular foe sent shivers down her spine. She felt the presence of something tyrannical, hateful, and resentful—a defeated entity whose influence continued to linger, fueled by its grudge against both the divine and mortals.

Whatever it was, in whatever shape or form, Hephaestus knew that the malevolent entity they faced posed a potential direct threat not only to mortals but also to the Gods themselves. Its power and resentment were palpable, and the implications of its existence sent ripples of concern through her divine being. The Gods were not invulnerable, and even they had their limits. The entity's strength rivaled that of the divine, and its grudge against both mortals and the Gods held the potential to disrupt the balance that governed the realms. It was a force that needed to be confronted and neutralized before it could bring harm to all that existed.

"… The Demon King!" The words slipped from Zelda's lips.

The Demon King, an ancient being of darkness, whose name had been etched into the depths of her memory. The mural they had discovered in the underground ruins had depicted the malevolent entity; its sinister presence evident in the intricate artwork.

Unbeknownst to her, the current incarnation of the Demon King extended far beyond the mere 10,000 years of recorded history. Its origins were shrouded in the mists of time, belonging to a long-forgotten era that had faded from the collective memory of mortals and long-lived beings. A forgotten era where humans lived in the skies, far removed from the perils that lurked on the surface of the world. It was an age of wonders and harmony, where the divine and mortal realms were closely intertwined. But as time passed, the memories of that era faded, and its existence became little more than a whispered myth. Only remnants of its existence survived in the form of ancient tales and legends, passed down through generations.

But there was one who still held fragments of that forgotten era—the spirit that resided within the sword. The spirit, with its timeless wisdom and memories, carried the echoes of a bygone age. Through its whispers and fragments of knowledge, the spirit had revealed glimpses of the origin of the malevolence that constantly plagued Hyrule.

"It seems like you have some knowledge about it," remarked Hephaestus.

"There was a mural we discovered in the ruins. It depicted a fierce battle and a figure that emanated a sense of fear and darkness."

Hephaestus nodded thoughtfully. "This particular area is not my specialty, but there is another God who might have insights. Ouranos. He might be able to shed light on this matter. I can try to arrange a meeting with him for you. In the meantime, I will need to clear my schedule and reach out to Goibniu. Another smithing God who has more experience dealing with spirits. "A sly smile spread across Hephaestus's face as she continued, "But before that... I'm guessing neither of you have a place to stay?"

Zelda and Link exchanged glances before Zelda responded, "We haven't figured out an arrangement regarding that..."

"Well then," Hephaestus said, her eyes gleaming brightly, "I wouldn't mind letting you two stay – in exchange, you'll let me handle this beauty until it's needed!"

As Hephaestus made her proposition, a shiver ran down the spine of the slumbering spirit within the Decayed Master Sword.

/-/

King Larfal Ljos Alf stood by his window; his jade eyes filled with helplessness as he watched the unfolding destruction ravage their beloved forest. His long, disheveled hair, the same color as the emerald leaves, was tied back in a loose knot. The gold circlet on his head sat crookedly, a reflection of the turmoil within his heart. His once-handsome face now wrinkled with worry, pale in the face of the devastation before him.

"Your majesty! We must move!"

The urgent voices of his most trusted knights snapped the king out of his daze. Without hesitation, they guided Larfal away from the window, their arms supporting him as they urged him to leave the Alf's Royal Forest. They knew the importance of ensuring the safety of their beloved ruler, to distance him from the chaos and destruction that threatened their land. Larfal's heart weighed heavy with concern for his kingdom, but he understood the necessity of heeding their words.

"Hurry! Before we're completely surrounded!" the captain of the knights shouted.

As Larfal was ushered through the crumbling hallways, his thoughts turned inward, consumed by the weight of his own choices and the path he had taken as king. He couldn't help but wonder if things would have taken a different turn if he had ruled differently, if he had embraced a different perspective.

Deep within his heart, Larfal harbored a disdain for the Gods. He viewed them as depraved beings, reveling in amusement while disregarding the struggles of mortals. It was this belief that led him to keep the Alf's Royal Forest isolated, a sacred haven untouched by the influence of the divine. The forest served as an idol of worship for the Elves, a place where they could find solace and protect their purity.

In his paternal instincts, Larfal once tried to prevent his daughter, Riveria Ljos Alf, from leaving the forest. He feared the corruption and dangers that awaited her beyond its boundaries. However, he eventually relented, realizing the importance of her personal growth and safety. Now, amidst the chaos unfolding around him, he found irony in the fact that his decision had kept Riveria out of harm's way. He couldn't help but reflect on his own desires and ambitions, once strong but subdued by the weight of his royal responsibilities. He had been timid and afraid of being left behind by those who ventured beyond the forest, causing him to try to keep Riveria confined within its borders.

Larfal's knight led him to where their cavalry awaited, a group of elite knights skilled in magic and horseback combat. Their loyal mounts pawed the ground nervously as the approaching monsters drew nearer. Without the blessings of the Gods, their strength was limited, but their determination remained unwavering.

"Get his majesty on a worthy mount!" commanded one of the knights.

"Monster! Incoming!" shouted another, alerting the rest of the group.

A colossal monkey-like creature descended from the sky, crashing into the castle, causing untold destruction. It was a Silverback. Its once pristine fur now stained with a sinister dark crimson color. Glowing veins of sickly purple tainted its muscular arms and body.

GRRWOOOOOO!

With a deafening howl, it sent shockwaves through the knights, causing the cavalry mounts to panic and flee in fear.

With a grunt of surprise, Larfal managed to secure himself on the horse just in time, but his grip was tenuous as the horse wildly galloped away in terror. The deafening roar of the monster reverberated in his ears, causing intense pain and disorientation. As his consciousness waned, he slumped on his mount, oblivious to the gruesome fate befalling his loyal knights.

Meanwhile, the once majestic and proud Alf's Royal Forest withered under the overwhelming forces of the relentless monsters. The realm's serene beauty and tranquility were shattered, leaving behind a landscape mutilated by destruction and chaos.

Alf's Royal Forest had fallen.


You think we could had expand more, or show and not tell?