There is a electricity in the air. 

The hustle and bustle of the droves of individuals along the roadway is filled with joy and excitement, Just cresting the northern part of Hyrule field after a near weeks long journey. We find dozens of people of all races, Intermingled and discussing the upcoming festivities with glee. Massive Gorons carrying barrels of Liquors and wines, Zora's strumming instruments, Gerudo's dancing along with the soft melody. Cart's filled to the brim with varying raw ingredients from all corners of the continent, Lingering within the Joyful atmosphere is more than enough to bring a smile to even the sternest of individuals. 

The Centennial Ballad is only days away, The grandest celebration the people of Hyrule have ever witnessed. To say no expense has been spared in this event would not give it justice, the path on which the people travel is already decorated in White and Blue streamers affixed to wooden posts that wave softly in the warm breeze carrying through the Field. 

And there over the hill you can see, The marble palace of Hyrule. A symbol of good that shines even in the dead of night, From this distance you can already make out the sounds of laughter and music as the celebrations have already begun. 

Among the countless droves of individuals a hearty laugh escapes a Goron, Who is by far the largest member of this crowd. Dwarfing even the tallest of Gerudo, This massive being made of Muscle and stone has been debating with a Zora. The topic of this debate: Which Champion was of more aid to the Hero when he used the blade that seals darkness to defeat the Calamity. Naturally both believe the Champions of their own kind were more instrumental in this great Victory.

“NOT A CHANCE” The Goron bellowed, spewing saliva from his mouth, Which found its way onto a rather displeased Gerudo. As he adjusted his grip on a large barrel he cut the Zora's attempted retort off. “DARUK WOULDA MOPPED THE MINES WITH YURR LASS” Proclaiming loudly for all to hear.

As it so happens, these words reach the ears of four particular individuals who even among a crowd as diverse as this, Stands out.

Please Introduce yourselves.

Rae walks amongst the bustling crowd.  Several heads turn away from the commotion caused by the goron and zora to take glances at Rae, the 7'6'' zora with bright yellow skin covered in blue polka dots.  Some looked out of habit as Rae's skin pattern seemingly demanded for attention while others stole multiple glances to admire her toned muscles.  The tall, zoran woman stuck out like a sore thumb, but she was used to the stares of her onlookers.

Rather than the fish-like shape that typically adorned the top of her zoran brethren's head, her's was a stingray.  The stingray's 'fins' drooped down her head to mimic a bob cut and its long, spiny tail dropped down the full length of Rae's back as a sort of ponytail.  In terms of clothes, the zoran female wore no more than a top that resembles a sports bra.

Rae stopped to observe the argument, saying under her breath, "Oh hoh, perhaps a fight will break out.  I wonder how the zoran will fare against such a large opponent."

Sitting at a small table with a mug of ale (almost as big as his head) is a halfling, around 3’ 6”. His name is Theodore Von Azalar (or Theo for short). His sandy blonde hair dangles in front of his thim rimmed spectacles, and he gingerly brushes a strand out of the way. A curious looking weapon sits in a holder on his waist, and a bigger version rests across his back. His emerald green eyes search for the sound, trying to discern what was going on. He finishes the mug, wipes his face with a handkerchief, and gets up, wandering around in the general direction of the shouting.

”Huh,” he says aloud to no one, with a slight Irish accent. “I wonder what could be going on over here.”

A 3' 5".. scruffy orange haired Kokiri, making his way through the crowded streets looking at everything he sees in amazement. He has never seen such sites... stone building, tall people of all races, so many wonders to explore he doesn't know where to start. Paca, a male kokiri, having left his home for the first time at the age of 50, doesn't look a day over 13 years old to most. Paca hears this gaff between the Goron and the Zoran and watches from a safe distance thinking some sort of a fight is about to break out. "Whoaa. This is getting intense. Maybe I shouldn't be here... " Paca paces around wondering if he has mixed in with the wrong crowd. He casts find familiar to summon his fairy. "Lizi.. do you think I am in danger here?"

Walking along just off the edge of the road, feeling obviously uncomfortable surrounded by so many people in jubilant mood, is a blue skinned Hylian dressed in furs. He is wearing an ox skull adorned with feathers atop his head as a hat, under which his hair is tightly braided to his head and is also a shade of blue. On closer inspection, his eyes and even lips are different shades of blue as well.

He is not particularly tall compared to some other traveller's, being only 5'10", but he is a fairly imposing individual. Especially the large sword strapped to his back, along with a number of other weapons of varying kinds.

As the Goron bellows, the blue Hylian stops in his tracks, one hand whipping up to almost clasp the handle of his sword as his eyes scan for some threat. He cocks his head to the side and as quickly as his reflexes kicked in he relaxes, seemingly happy that there is no imminent danger.

Overhearing a large yellow Zora with blue polka dots commenting on their kinfolks chances against the larger Goron, he grunts and looks up at them.

"It would be foolish to mistake size for strength. No matter how loud they bellow", Praxius says simply.

Within the cool air a spark of soft green magic ignites, appearing before the Kokori amongst the crowd is a small green fairy. What amounts to a small sphere of warm-green light with transuluscent wings that hover softly around the Kokiri. "Im sure your fine!" A impish, high toned voice seeps from the creature. "Gorons enjoy boasting, But its all harmless fun! Im certain that if things grew even the slightest bit hostile the Goron would  calm the situation!" The fairy floats threw the crowd but never strays far from the Kokiri. 

The Goron chuckles as the Zora stutters over their words, the dark blue colourization and fins typical of most Zora. "Mipha was among the Hero's most trusted!, There is simply no comparison between the two" They exclaim in contrast to the Gorons words. While both are in direct contention with each other there is no note of Hostility, both of them seem to be enjoying the friendly debate. The Gorons wide grin plain for everyone to see while only those with the keenest vision could even notice the slight upturn of the Zora's lip.

The clatter of hooves drew the attention of the Zora, Pointing up the roadway to the six riders heading in the groups direction. "Soldiers? Maybe a Knight?" They remark idly to the Goron, who squints and raises his free hand to his brow in an effort to block the overhead sun. "Aye, Me thinks that's a Knight in the lead....Perhaps a squad to see us to the gate?" Inquisitive as no other group had a formation of Hyrulean Soldiers ride up to greet them as they grew closer to the city.

Sure enough, if you were to look down the road you would see Six riders as they trotted up to the Group. All within a line formation to take up the entirety of the road you are traveling on. While five of these riders wear the traditional Steel armor with a royal blue, cloth Tunic of the Hyrulean Army along with a full helm that conceals their identity.

The sixth and the one leading the formation is a Hyrulean Knight, Considered to be the best in their respective fields. Knights are a rarity in the army, A position in which one is deemed the master of a particular skill, from Swordcraft to Archery. Typically there can be anywhere between 2 to 10 Knights, Personally chosen by the King.

This Knight in particular is clearly a Hylian, Long auburn hair that has been pulled back into a tight bun at the top of their head. Wearing the simple clothes of a traveler but with the sky-blue cloak of a Knight hanging from their shoulders and no visible weapon.

“Ya reckon they are just coming out to say hello?” A voice breaks within the crowd, sourceless the question meant for any who could hear.

Rae responds casually to Praxius who interjected himself into her conversation of one, "It would also be foolish to assume size has nothing to do with strength.  Especially when punching above your own weight class."  The yellow zora, standing nearly 2 ft taller than Praxius, looks down to her interlocutor and smiles, "That said, it is equally foolish to assume the small are weak."

Rae conversed with the blue individual in a non-hostile tone.  Though her opinions opposed the blue fellow's statement, the smile on her face made it clear that she was enjoying the brief conversation.  "Although it seems that we will not be seeing a fight."  Rae extends a hand in greeting, "The name's Rae.  And you are?"

Rae allows the blue fellow time to introduce himself.  When introductions are made, Rae comments on the arrival of soldiers and the knight, "Oh, would this be a part of the Centennial Ballad?  I am new to Hyrule culture, so this is all very foreign to me."

Praxius looks for a moment at the outstretched hand, confusion evident on his face. It has been a long time since a hand has been offered him in this manner. His pause is almost too long, bordering on offending this person whose name he now knows is Rae. But this is not his intention, and he gingerly reaches out with his own hand, clasping Rae's in a firm yet friendly grip.

"I am....Praxius. I think we can agree that we should neither make assumptions of our opponent, nor underestimate them", he says with the hint of a grin.

As he spots the soldiers, he quickly removes his hand, reaching up to cover his head with the hood of his cloak. Which anyone around him might consider odd, as his cloak hadn't had a hood a moment ago.

"I am unsure, I have not visited in some time", he says in a low voice.

Paca, having overheard Praxius and Rae, approaches them and asks politely. "Excuse me, I couldn't help but overhear your conversation. It sounds as though you two are fighters of some sort? My name is Paca and well, you see, I have recently left home in search of adventure but it seems as though the world is full of danger. I am not very good with a weapon and was hoping possibly I could stick near you two?" 

As he says this, he notices the soldiers approaching. "You don't suppose this is one of those dangers coming this way now do you?" Well, if it is, I may not fight well, but I can empower and heal you with my magic." 

“I don’t think it’s danger, but I’m not sure what it is,” Theo says, stepping up to the group, extending a hand to Paca, a fellow short (sorry, vertically challenged) guy. “The name’s Theo. Sorry if I’m bargain in, but I can help with some of your questions. From what I know, the patrol is regular, though there aren’t that many now. But the Knight,” he rubs his glasses, peering through them inquisitively, “is pretty unusual. They usually travel alone and only appearing in the city when summoned. What is it doing with a group out here? I don’t know if any danger out here, aside from a debate getting heated.”

Praxius turns his attention to the smaller folk as they introduce themselves. He wasn’t sure exactly what was happening. Was it the custom now to make friends with any random stranger. Better to look like I belong than to stand apart and stand out though.

“Praxius”, he says simply from within the hood of his cloak as he regards Paca. “I cannot promise you will face less danger sticking with me, but the safety of numbers is something I have not had in some time. Stick close if you like”.

He turns to Theo. “You seem to have some useful knowledge. Perhaps you would also stick close and share more of your wisdom as we approach the city?”.

Rae welcomes the two newcomers with a smile, "The name's Rae, a pleasure to meet you all." 

Rae turns to Paca, "I happened to stumble onto some extended vacation time, which is why I've come to attend the Centennial Ballad.  I hear that company makes an event more enjoyable so you're welcome to tag along."

She then addresses Theo, "As are you." 

Finally, Rae poses a question to the group, "Do you think it's possible the knight is making an appearance as part of the event?  I did not come here seeking trouble nor adventure, so I hope nothing has gone awry."

Theo smiles. “Nice to meet you too, Rae and Praxius. I myself wouldn’t mind a little adventure.”

He watches as the group approaches. “I don’t think that a Knight would just arrive for fun, especially with a company of 5 other soldiers. Still, I would like to stick around, if that’s fine with y’all.” He turns to Paca. “Don’t worry, if a fight breaks out I’ll stick with you. No one will get near us with my Pepperbox and Bad News.” He touches his small pistol in a leather pouch on his hip and a shouldered musket across his back respectively.

Paca replies to Theo. "Are those musical instruments of some sort? If so I would be very eager to hear you play them! I am a musician myself you see.."

Paca now turns to the Rae and Praxius and asks. "Oh! Do you two also play instruments? If so we may have quite the quartet on our hands here! We will be called Paca and the Funky Bunch! Our name will reach across this land and we will be remembered forever!" In his excitement Paca has to stop and take a breath and notices the other three looking at him strangely.

"Oh..sorry. Getting a bit ahead of myself there..."

Theo laugh a loud, hearty laugh. “No, these are my weapons. I call them guns.” He takes Pepper out of its holder and does a little twirl. “They’re going to replace arrows, if the idea spreads. They are a lot faster and more powerful. This one here is Pepper. She’s small but feisty, and fires up to 6 bullets, or little pieces of ammunition, before needing to reload.” He puts Pepper back in its pouch.

Taking the much larger one off of his back, Theo puts it up to his eye. “This one here is Bad News, and that’s not a joke. He only fires one shot, but if he hits you you’ll be in a heap of trouble.” Slinging it back on his shoulder, he says, “I created them myself, with the help of a blacksmith. They’re my weapon of choice. I can decimate enemies without ever getting close to their face.” 

Praxius shrinks deeper into his cloak as the soldiers draw nearer. Or had the cloak grown? It was hard to tell.

He listens to the others talk though, staying close to appear part of their group.

"I used to know how to play the horn, not so much to make music though. It's been a while though", he says to Paca a little solemnly.

As Theo shows off his weapons, he turns with interest to get a closer look. The world has changed more than I know if bows and arrows are no longer a good choice of weapon, he thinks.

"I prefer to be close", he says to Theo, "But most people prefer I don't". He chuckles a little, the sound seeming odd, as if it is not one that has escaped his lips for some time.

He listens to try and hear how close the riders are coming to them, not wanting to turn and look.

Perception: 9+3=12

The riders continue down the roadway, with the same voice from before chiming in "Are-are they going to run into us?" People began to murmer and discuss among themselves much like you have been. There is discussion about standing their ground near the front of the group, some whispers about maybe turning off the road to let the riders pass. The Goron from before, who even among a crowd filled with other Goron, Gerudo and Zora, Dwarfs even the tallest of them. Even Rae must crane her neck upwards to gaze upon his face. He steps threw the crowd, walking towards the front seemingly in a effort to greet the riders. "HO FRIENDS, WHAT BUIS-" Is all the Goron manages to get out before the Riders turn from the roadway and deftly blow past the group of people. A cloud of dust is kicked up and stirred by the gallop of the hooves, the Hylian mares carrying them known for their heavy footfall and reliable stamina. 

"Well" The Goron rubs the top of his head as the riders go around the group, their pace never slowing. However now you can plainly see, the Soldiers are all grasping weapons in their free hands. "A display of technique?" The Zora questions the purpose of the riders, just as confused as the Goron.

Praxius:

Praxius removes his hood, which seems to disappear entirely, and cocks his head to the side slightly. He then turns to look to the South.

"It is clear why the soldiers are here. Damned Bokoblins!", he says, the last bit in a bit of a growl.

"Still want to stick close?", he says to the others as he starts to move South himself, trying to get between the civilians and the Hogs path. As he moves he draws a javelin from the assortment of weaponry on his back, and scans beyond the Bokoblin looking for more. Where there is one...

"Bokoblins? I have no idea what those are but they sound dangerous. I'll follow your lead!" 

Paca follows Praxius. If there is time Paca will use Bardic Inspiration to inspire Praxius giving him 1d6 inspiration die. If not he will follow and ready his weapons, staying slightly behind Praxius either way.

“Watch out!” Theo jumps on top of a table, right in front of the Zora and Goron. Singling Bad News off of his back, Theo pops a piece of ammunition into the musket. “Time to test my new weapon.” 

Attack: 6+9=15 to hit

Damage: 6+6+5=17 piercing damage