Traversing across the West and East Necluda regions, a young Hylian girl walks on foot, taking in the world around her and tracing the steps of a legend. To many, she may come across as just another wanderer, another NPC to rescue from Bokoblins, gather a meal from, or ignore as you gallop across the lands. But follow her journey across the lands and she too has her own story to tell.
The young Hylian adventurer can be found on the road from Dueling Peaks Stable to Hateno Village. She calls herself Celessa as she strolls leisurely across Hyrule. Her brunette hair ties up into a cute bun atop her head with a couple of loose strands framing either side of her face. Knowing the dangers of the world, she wears light armor and walks with an Emblazoned Shield and a Traveler’s Sword. She won’t be taking on any vicious Lynels or roaming Guardians, but at least she’s armed and can defend herself from the smaller enemies that walk upon the road.
At first, Celessa comes across as an NPC to lead Link in a certain direction. She comments on meeting the leader of Kakariko Village, Impa, and tells Link that he should go meet her. However, upon the beginning of her journey, or pilgrimage as Celessa likes to call it, a little more personality and story starts to shine. On the road, Celessa speaks of Princess Zelda, wondering if Link has ever heard of her. “She’s not just a fairy tale. She was a princess who actually existed in the land of Hyrule” (Celessa, Breath of the Wild). Celessa’s goal is to retrace Princess Zelda’s steps traveling to the Spring of Wisdom and Mount Lanaryu.
An aura of doubt surrounds Celessa. Despite going on this journey, calling herself an adventurer and being driven, she is surprised by every step of her journey. Upon the road she comments on walking slowly and surprised to have gotten as far as she has. Her home town is never disclosed, nor if she has any family members, but one wonders if that is the source of her doubt. Even her comment about Princess Zelda not being a fairy tale suggests that people have told her that the journey is futile, based on a dream. Nevertheless, Celessa walks on.
Upon her pilgrimage, Celessa expresses a great love and respect for Princess Zelda. Even 100 years later, the Princess of Hyrule is inspiring her people. Celessa’s love for her Princess seems to also extend to the Princess’ love for history. At Fort Hateno, Celessa stops to admire the ruined structure. Speaking to her, she talks about how the wall was the last defense against the guardians. She laments for the soldiers that lost their lives and honors their sacrifice while also praying they find peace. Upon a rainy day, she’ll add that she hopes that King Rhoam finds peace at Hyrule Castle.
Celessa is one of many stories across Hyrule. Her adventure may not be epic nor world saving, but she still has the heart of a dreamer and adventurer just like our heroes. Her story is portrayed in snippets and requires much patience (or a good memory) to piece together. One day she will complete her journey to the Spring of Wisdom and, either finally uncover exactly how Princess Zelda felt 100 years ago, or at least walk away knowing she completed her journey despite all odds.
