What Happens to the Sages at the End of Tears of the Kingdom?
The conclusion of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom sees the newly appointed Sages solidify their roles as protectors of Hyrule, standing united alongside Princess Zelda. After the epic defeat of Ganondorf, a post-credit scene reveals a pivotal moment where Zelda invites the five Sages – Tulin, Sidon, Riju, Yunobo, and the spirit form of Mineru – alongside Purah, to the platform where she first recovered the decaying Master Sword. This gathering signifies the Sages’ formal commitment to Hyrule’s future. They reaffirm their dedication to standing by Zelda and upholding peace, mirroring the ancient Sages’ vow to Rauru and Sonia during the Imprisoning War. Mineru, now a spirit, expresses her joy that Rauru and Sonia will witness their dedication before she departs to the afterlife, offering a final thanks. Essentially, the Sages remain in their respective positions, ready to defend their lands and offer aid to Hyrule in the future, though their direct involvement in Link’s adventures concludes at this point. They do not leave their posts or experience any significant changes to their roles in the kingdom.
The Sages’ Role After Ganondorf’s Defeat
The post-credit scene isn’t just a nice send-off; it’s a critical moment solidifying the Sages’ new positions of power. They are no longer just individuals blessed with unique abilities; they are now cornerstones of Hyrule’s security. Their commitment symbolizes the rebirth of the kingdom, built on the foundation of courage, wisdom, and power, echoing the values represented by the Triforce.
The Sages, though no longer actively assisting Link’s primary quest, continue to maintain their individual responsibilities and lead their respective peoples. Tulin remains in Rito Village, ensuring the safety and well-being of the Rito people. Sidon stays in Zora’s Domain, guiding the Zora people and maintaining the stability of their region. Riju remains in Gerudo Town, leading the Gerudo and safeguarding their lands from threats. Yunobo stays with the Gorons, supporting them in their mining endeavors and protecting their unique culture. And, although she departs to the afterlife, Mineru, through her spirit, symbolizes the wisdom and guidance passed down to the present Sages. They each become beacons of stability and protectors of their own domains, ensuring that Hyrule remains a safe and prosperous land.
The Significance of the Post-Credits Gathering
This formal gathering of the Sages is more than a simple reunion. It’s a declaration of unity and a demonstration of the collaborative spirit that will define Hyrule in the aftermath of Ganondorf’s defeat. By choosing the location of the recovered Master Sword, Zelda is invoking both the past and the future. She’s acknowledging the sacrifices made, and simultaneously, she’s laying a foundation for future prosperity. This scene suggests that the Sages, working together and under Zelda’s guidance, will ensure no threat as formidable as Ganondorf will ever arise again. They’ve learned from the past, and this understanding will empower them to meet future challenges.
The Sages are also a representation of the bonds formed during the crisis. Their commitment demonstrates the lasting impact of Link’s and Zelda’s efforts to unite the various peoples of Hyrule. They are not just warriors or leaders but also a symbol of hope, showcasing a Hyrule that is prepared, united, and ready to defend itself against any form of darkness. Their oath is a testament to the strength and resilience of the people of Hyrule, offering a peaceful prospect for the future. This scene is a powerful culmination of their journey, affirming the Sages’ enduring commitment to the wellbeing of the kingdom and its citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Sages in Tears of the Kingdom
What happened to Mineru?
Mineru, as a Zonai, was deceased prior to the events of Tears of the Kingdom. She exists as a spirit and manifests to assist Link. Her journey concludes after the final boss fight when she acknowledges the new Sages’ commitment and peacefully transitions to the afterlife, confident that Hyrule is in good hands.
Do the Sages appear in the post-game?
No, there is no post-game exploration beyond the post-credit scene. Once the player defeats Ganondorf and watches the ending, they are returned to the title screen. The story does not continue, so there is no additional content that features the sages after their commitment is made.
Are the Sages present in Hyrule after the ending?
Yes, each of the Sages remain within their respective areas of Hyrule. They can be seen in their original positions at Zora’s Domain, Gerudo Town, Rito Village, and Goron City. This ensures they continue leading and protecting their peoples even after the story ends.
Can you still use the Sages’ abilities after the final boss fight?
Yes, though the game returns to the state right before the final battle after completing the game, you can still activate the abilities of the Sages once they have been formally acquired. This allows you to continue exploring and interacting with the world using their powers.
Does Sidon marry Yona at the end of the game?
While there is no specific scene showing Sidon’s wedding, it’s made clear that he is engaged to Yona. It is implied that the marriage will happen soon. The future of Zora’s Domain is secure with their leadership.
Do the Sages know about the events of Breath of the Wild?
The Sages are generally aware of the events that transpired in Breath of the Wild, particularly related to the Calamity and Link’s prior history. This information is crucial in their acceptance of Link and their overall motivation to help him.
Are the Sages’ powers related to the Triforce?
While the Sages possess unique powers, these aren’t explicitly linked to the Triforce. Their powers appear to come from the individuals themselves, their lineage, and their unique connections to their respective lands.
Will the Sages be featured in future Zelda games?
It is impossible to know for certain. Nintendo has stated there are no plans for DLC for Tears of the Kingdom. However, it’s possible that some of the Sages, particularly the younger ones like Tulin, could be referenced or even featured in future Zelda games, as their roles are now central to the history of Hyrule.
Are the new Sages replacing the ancient Sages?
The new Sages are not replacing the ancient Sages; they are their successors. They are carrying on the legacy of the ancient Sages, echoing their dedication and responsibility to protect Hyrule. The new Sages have learned from the stories of the ancient Sages and are continuing their work in a new era.
Is Purah considered a Sage?
Purah is not officially considered a Sage, despite her integral role in helping Link and Zelda. However, her inclusion in the final gathering underscores her importance in the narrative and her position as a central figure in Hyrule’s development.
Do the Sages interact with each other outside of the story?
The Sages generally don’t interact outside of scripted scenes. They remain mostly in their own respective areas. However, they are all aware of their shared purpose in protecting Hyrule.
Does each Sage have their own unique connection to a specific element?
Yes, each Sage has a strong connection to an element that complements their region: Tulin embodies wind, Sidon has water, Riju has lightning, and Yunobo controls fire. This connection to nature highlights their deep rooted ties to the lands they protect.
Are the Sages always linked to their respective domains?
Yes, the Sages in Tears of the Kingdom are deeply connected to their respective regions and its people. They do not leave their posts once they become Sages. They are seen leading their people and protecting their lands.
Are the Sages’ vows similar to Rauru’s vow?
The Sages’ vows closely mirror the ancient Sages’ vows. Their vows showcase their dedication to Hyrule’s safety and their commitment to serving under Zelda’s guidance, echoing the historical duty to protect the kingdom.
How does Mineru’s spirit affect the other Sages?
Mineru’s spirit serves as a reminder of the past and the importance of the Sage’s roles. She represents the continuity between the old and new Sages and provides spiritual wisdom to the newly instated members, further solidifying their commitment to protecting Hyrule.