blade_of_odette

[Characters in Hyrule might notice Oswald skulking up to his room, his face covered in ash. His armor is streaked with what appear to be scorch marks, and the tip of his hair appears to be on fire. He does not seem to have noticed.]

If anyone needs me, I will be in my chambers.

[private, filtered to Ganondorf]

As you asked, I visited Death Mountain to deliver warning to the oni should they fail to heed our call. I was attacked by a dragon, which seemed to be acting as a guardian of sorts. It is slain.

The oni... wished me to repeat a message, but I fear you may not want to hear it.

[private; unhackable]

Though I was victorious in the battle, I remain... worried. I used the Belderiver's power more than once throughout, and my whole body aches... This is more than mere exhaustion. Something is wrong.

What is happening to me?

Sir Frog, you fought well. It was an honor to be defeated at your hands. Though this may have been my loss, it was a victory for Hyrule either way.

[private; unhackable]

I... failed. I was too impatient... I used the Belderiver's power too quickly. My whole body aches. Am I... truly so weak?

Father... I will accept whatever punishment you see fit.

[[OOC: For clarification, this post is entirely Melvin speaking. Oswald himself is standing at his stepfather's side silently.]]

Oh my, it would seem the Emperor has high hopes for us, wouldn't it? Princess Zelda, if I may be so bold, perhaps now would be a good time for us to step up our offenses? The eye of the Empire falls upon us; we would do well to catch its favor.

On that note, I should like to introduce all of you to my son, Oswald. Some of you may have seen him around the castle. I am told, regrettably, that certain rumors have begun to persist about him, and I shall take this opportunity to dispel them. T'is true that he wields the power of the Belderiver- a dark and terrible blade forged by the Shinigami themselves.

But, my dear soldiers, this is no reason to fear the boy. He is your ally: the weapon with which we shall crush our enemies and transform our beloved Princess into a beloved Empress. Aren't you, Oswald?

"Yes, Father."

Good boy.

Now, that said, take heart! With brave warriors such as yourselves, the power of the Belderiver, and the wisdom and benevolence of our lovely Princess, this war will be naught but an unpleasant memory in mere months. I shall take my leave of you; feel free to mingle with the commonfolk, Oswald.

"...!"

[filtered to Ganondorf, unhackable]

I tire of waiting. How much longer must we twaddle our thumbs before the girl can be disposed of?