hackergirl: RELOADED [zelda x ninjago x mario x tih x reader]

[prologue] - at death's door

"Thank you for making the time for this evening, Queen [Y/N]," Head Scholar Lettore tells you graciously as he clasps his hands together. Bowing his head, he continues: "we understand these are rather trying times for you."

"Of course," you murmur back. Although it seems Lettore was planning on breaking the news to you himself, you've heard the rumours floating around. Isle Delfino, the very birthplace of light itself, is gradually plunging into darkness. Less and less Shine Sprites are gathering by the holy gateway in Delfino Plaza. Tourists are far and few between.

And the people. Their livelihoods are at stake if you don't fix this.

For now, you're in a chamber far from the prying eyes and ears of outsiders. But you and Lettore aren't alone, of course. You're gathered with the Shine Sprite Scholars, those who dedicate their lives and passions to maintaining the pure sunshine that streaks across your lands. Each dressed in a deep red robe, adorned with golden embroidery and other motifs of your kingdom. The Hall of Royals, of course, is closed off to the public, and for good reason.

After all, this place houses your family's sacred treasure...the Arms of the Shine Queen.

"I always knew the light was dwindling here," you admit to them from your seat at the table, "but at this rate? I'm worried we won't make it through the winter."

"It's true," Vetri agrees, flicking through several pages of a report obtained from the mayor's office. "Sindaco's practically giving away houses in the village...but it's like it doesn't even matter! Everyone's still leaving."

"I don't blame them," you murmur. "But why? Why is the light disappearing?"

"The Shine Sprites are scared." To your left, Caligine shifts her glasses closer to his face. "You should be asking why they're scared, Your Majesty."

"Or perhaps what's scaring them away."

As you rise from your seat, you glance around the room. A shiny new plaque behind Head Scholar Lettore depicts the names of each Shine Sprite Scholar, of which you are included:

[Y/N] [L/N], Shine Queen

Arthur Lettore, Head Shine Scholar

Teruma Caligine, Vice Shine Scholar

Lisa Vetri, Shine Scholar

Nicholas Matron, Shine Scholar

Ezra Ron, Shine Scholar

Oliver Parker, Shine Scholar

Deborah Sarese, Shine Scholar

"When we assumed our roles," you begin, admiring its sheen, "we made a promise to protect the Shine Sprites no matter what. That promise doesn't change." You turn to face the seven once more. "I would like for you all to return to your homes and look into this matter further. Ask everyone you can, keep an eye out, see if you can help the Shine Sprites with whatever troubles them. And please keep me updated."

"Yes, Your Highness," they all respond.

As they depart the chamber, you return your gaze to the plaque, or rather, what lies above it. The Arms of the Shine Queen...so beautiful and radiant. The circlet purportedly protects against the most vicious of psychic attacks. The cuirass is said to deliver a divine strength from the heavens in the wearer's darkest hour of need. And the Sword of the Shine Sprites...its blade is as radiant as the Sun itself.