Before embarking on the search for the elusive fifth sage, it is crucial to ensure that certain prerequisites have been met. The journey to uncover these ancient secrets begins after the completion of the “Crisis at Hyrule Castle” main quest, which involves confronting and defeating the formidable Phantom Ganons within the confines of Hyrule Castle. Upon successfully quelling this crisis and returning to Purah at Lookout Landing, the “Find the Fifth Sage” questline will be initiated.
Additionally, the Camera function for the Purah Pad is essential for progressing through the initial stages of this quest; this tool is acquired early in the game through interactions with Robbie as part of his research endeavors at Lookout Landing. While the quest can be started without it, a significant hurdle awaits later in the form of a door requiring at least 10 Heart Containers to open, making it advisable to have accumulated sufficient hearts by then.
Kakariko Village and the Ring Ruins: Your Initial Lead
The search for the fifth sage commences in Kakariko Village, a settlement nestled in the Northwest Necluda region, to the southwest of Zora’s Domain. Players can easily locate the village by referencing the map for the Makasura Shrine, with Kakariko Village situated just to its south. An alternative fast travel point is the Sahasra Slope Skyview Tower, from which a glide eastward will lead directly to the village. For precise navigation, the geographical coordinates of Kakariko Village are approximately 1816, -0951, 0113.
Upon arrival, head to the northern part of the village where Paya, the village chief, and Tauro can be found engrossed in the study of one of the Ring Ruins. Engaging in conversation with them will trigger the “Secret of the Ring Ruins” quest, a pivotal step in the overarching mission to locate the fifth sage. Paya and Tauro will request your assistance in examining the ruin that has captured their attention. To gain entry, locate the ground level directly beneath the Ring Ruin and utilize the Ascend ability to phase through the structure from below.
Once inside, access the Purah Pad and activate the camera function. Your objective is to photograph the ancient writing adorning the inner walls of the ruin; this visual record holds a crucial piece of the puzzle. After capturing the image, use Ascend once more to exit the ruin and present the photograph to Tauro and Paya. Through their combined knowledge, they will decipher key elements of the inscription, providing a new direction for your investigation. Their interpretation will point towards a “dragon land” situated to the southeast, potentially linked to the Zonai ruins scattered throughout the Faron region.
The initial phase of this quest serves as an introduction to the investigative nature of the search for the fifth sage, emphasizing the importance of observation, interaction with non-player characters, and the utilization of key abilities like Ascend and the Purah Pad’s camera. The Ring Ruins, with their enigmatic inscriptions, act as the catalyst that propels the player into the subsequent stages of this unfolding mystery.
Following Tauro to Dracozu Lake: The Next Destination
Following the revelation from the Ring Ruins, Tauro will relocate to the Popla Foothills Skyview Tower, which lies to the south of Kakariko Village. Players who have already activated this tower can expedite their journey by fast traveling directly to its location. For those who have yet to unlock this travel point, the tower can be reached by heading south from Kakariko Village along the main road towards the Dueling Peaks Stable, and then proceeding westward until the tower becomes visible to the south.
The precise coordinates for the Popla Foothills Skyview Tower are 1344, -1170, 0166. Upon reaching the tower, look for Calip, who is often found near the campfire. Engaging in conversation with Calip will reveal that Tauro has already departed for Dracozu Lake, situated to the southeast of the tower.
To reach Dracozu Lake, proceed southeast from the Popla Foothills Skyview Tower, navigating across the Popla Foothills. An alternative route involves fast traveling to the Jiukoum Shrine, which is located southeast of the tower and north of the lake, and then gliding southward towards your destination. The eastern shore of Dracozu Lake is where Tauro has set up camp amidst the Faron Zonai Ruins; look for a noticeable campfire around the coordinates 0945, -2529, 0009 or 0972, -2533, 0009. Upon locating Tauro, initiate a conversation. He will share his progress in deciphering another set of ruins, specifically a mural that presents a cryptic riddle: “Wear the electric garb hidden at long-necked dragons along the wide-mouthed forest serpent. Offer a Zonai charge to the altar at the tail.”. Tauro will clarify that the Dracozu River corresponds to the “forest serpent” mentioned in the riddle.
This stage of the quest emphasizes the interconnectedness of the game world, requiring players to follow the movements of key NPCs to advance the narrative. The introduction of the riddle provides a clear objective, tasking players with finding a specific type of attire and locating a particular altar to proceed in their search for the fifth sage.
Gearing Up with the Charged Armor: Finding the Electric Garb
The riddle provided by Tauro speaks of “electric garb,” and the first piece of this attire can be found in the very ruin where Tauro is currently located. Within the same structure, a treasure chest will be visible; open it to claim the Charged Shirt, the initial component of the electric armor set. The entrance to this ruin is approximately at coordinates 0972, -2533, 0009 or 1006, -2539, 0014. To acquire the second piece, the Charged Trousers, players must follow the course of the Dracozu River southward, which Tauro identified as the “wide-mouthed forest serpent.” Along the riverbanks, keep a watchful eye for statues resembling dragon heads – these represent the “long-necked dragons” from the riddle.
Your search will lead you to another small ruin, distinguished by its bright illumination, situated on the western bank of the river, roughly midway between a bridge and Dracozu Lake. The coordinates for this location are around 0981, -2692, 0007 or 0951, -2706, 0013. The entrance to this ruin might be obstructed by cracked rocks, necessitating the use of a Bomb Flower or the power of Yunobo to clear the path.
Once inside, the chest containing the Charged Trousers awaits. The final piece of the Charged Armor set, the Charged Headdress, can be found further south along the Dracozu River. As the river’s path begins to curve, look for another brightly lit ruin on the eastern side of the southern segment of the river. This ruin is almost directly across from a prominent dragon head statue perched on the western cliff. The entrance to this location, around coordinates 0969, -2802, 0007 or 0985, -2829, 0013 , will likely be concealed by vines. To gain access, position yourself on the opposite riverbank and employ a fire-based attack, such as an arrow fused with a Fire Fruit, to incinerate the vines. Within the ruin, the chest holding the Charged Headdress can be found.
This phase of the quest requires diligent exploration and the application of problem-solving skills to overcome environmental obstacles. The riddle acts as a guide, leading players to specific locations within the game world where the necessary armor pieces are hidden, emphasizing the importance of interpreting clues and paying attention to environmental details.
Clearing the Storm at the Tail: Unveiling the Next Step
With all three pieces of the Charged Armor – the Shirt, Trousers, and Headdress – now in your possession, the next step is to equip the complete set. The riddle mentioned an altar at the “tail” of the forest serpent, which refers to the southernmost point of the Dracozu River. Follow the river’s winding path all the way to its southwestern end. The general area you are aiming for has coordinates around 0688, -2744. In this vicinity, search for another Zonai ruin; the altar you seek might be located inside, possibly behind a large tree situated atop a prominent rock formation. Once you have located the altar, access your inventory and select a Zonai Charge.
Hold the charge and then drop it onto the surface of the altar. This action will trigger a significant cutscene. The dragon head statues that line the Dracozu River will illuminate, and the ominous storm clouds that have been obscuring the Thunderhead Isles in the sky will dissipate, revealing your next destination in the vast expanse above.
This part of the quest serves as a direct application of the knowledge gained from the riddle, requiring players to not only locate specific items but also to use them in a particular manner at a designated location. The clearing of the storm clouds acts as a visual reward and a clear indicator of progress, opening up a new area for exploration.
Braving the Thunderhead Isles: Navigating the Stormy Skies
With the storm now lifted, the Thunderhead Isles are accessible. Launch yourself into the sky using the Popla Foothills Skyview Tower and glide southeast towards the now visible formation of sky islands, which constitute the Thunderhead Isles. It is crucial to remember that even with the initial storm dispelled, the Thunderhead Isles are still subject to frequent and intense thunderstorms. Therefore, before venturing further, ensure that all metallic equipment, including weapons, shields, and bows, are unequipped to avoid attracting dangerous lightning strikes. Opt for non-metallic gear such as cloth armor and weapons fused with monster parts like bones or claws. Navigate through the various floating landmasses that make up the Thunderhead Isles.
The path may appear straightforward at times, but skillful gliding and climbing will be necessary to progress. Exercise caution as the persistent rain can make surfaces slippery and challenging to ascend. Utilize the Ascend ability whenever an opportunity presents itself to gain vertical height or access hidden areas. As you explore, you will encounter push blocks that require electrical power to be manipulated. These can be activated by waiting for lightning to strike nearby metal rods and then rotating the block accordingly.
Alternatively, if available, Shock Fruit or Riju’s unique lightning ability can be used to provide the necessary electrical charge. Your ultimate objective within the Thunderhead Isles is to reach Dragonhead Island, which is situated at the southeasternmost part of this archipelago, resembling the head of a colossal dragon. Keep an eye on the horizon for its distinctive shape as you navigate through the stormy skies.
This segment of the quest tests the player’s ability to navigate a complex environment under adverse conditions. The persistent thunderstorms introduce an element of danger that requires careful preparation and awareness, while the puzzles involving electrical power add another layer of challenge to reaching the final destination within the isles.
Discovering Mineru’s Mask: The Zonai Relic
Upon reaching Dragonhead Island, your primary task is to locate the large, ancient Zonai structure that dominates the island’s landscape. In your exploration, you will likely come across the Joku-u Shrine. Be sure to activate this shrine as it will serve as an invaluable fast travel point should you need to return to this location later. Behind the Joku-u Shrine, you will find a grand, imposing door. This door is not easily opened; it requires the player to possess at least 10 Heart Containers. If your current heart count is insufficient, you will need to dedicate time to completing more shrines or acquiring additional hearts through other means before you can proceed.
Once the heart requirement is met and the door is opened, step through into the chamber beyond. On a pedestal within this room rests a mysterious mask – this is Mineru’s Mask, an ancient Zonai relic of great significance. Interacting with Mineru’s Mask will initiate a cutscene and officially mark the beginning of the “Guidance from Ages Past” main quest. As the quest begins, the mask will emit a focused beam of bright green light, pointing directly downwards towards the surface of Hyrule below.
This stage of the quest presents a significant progression barrier in the form of the heart container requirement, encouraging players to engage with other aspects of the game to strengthen their character. The discovery of Mineru’s Mask is a pivotal moment, revealing the identity of the fifth sage and setting the stage for the next phase of the adventure.
Journey to the Construct Factory: Following the Light
Now in possession of Mineru’s Mask, use your Ultrahand ability to carefully lift it from the pedestal. Just a short distance from where you found the mask, you will likely find a collection of Zonai devices: a Wing, a Steering Stick, and a Fan. These components can be combined using Ultrahand to create a rudimentary glider. Attach Mineru’s Mask to the front of this glider, ensuring that the green laser beam remains unobstructed and visible. With your makeshift aircraft assembled, launch it from the edge of Dragonhead Island, aiming precisely towards the spot on the surface of Hyrule where the green laser beam is impacting.
This point of impact is located in Tobio’s Hollow within the Faron region, with approximate coordinates of 1322, -2470, 0083. Upon landing in Tobio’s Hollow, you will observe the green light pointing towards a small pedestal situated near an ancient statue. Carefully place Mineru’s Mask onto this pedestal. This action will trigger the opening of a hidden passage, revealing the entrance to Tobio’s Hollow Chasm, a descent into the perilous Depths. Carry Mineru’s Mask with you as you enter the chasm. You will encounter another pedestal further within; place the mask upon it. This will activate a platform or an elevator, initiating a deep descent into the underground realm of the Depths. The elevator’s journey will conclude at a vast and enigmatic location known as the Construct Factory.
This part of the quest showcases the player’s ability to utilize acquired tools and abilities to traverse long distances, guided by a specific visual cue. The descent into the Depths marks a transition to a darker and more challenging environment, setting the stage for the intricate tasks that lie ahead in the Construct Factory.
Assembling the Construct: Retrieving the Missing Parts
Upon arriving at the Construct Factory, carefully carry Mineru’s Mask towards a large, incomplete construct frame located near the entrance of the facility. Use your Ultrahand ability to place the mask into the designated head area of the construct. You will then hear the voice of Mineru, explaining that the construct lacks its arms and legs, which are stored in four separate depots scattered throughout the area. These depots are often identifiable by the presence of green lanterns or turquoise flames marking their entrances in the distance. To aid in navigating this dimly lit environment, locate and activate the Muokuij Lightroot, situated to the south of the elevator you used to enter the Depths. Activating this Lightroot will illuminate the Construct Factory and its surroundings, significantly improving visibility. Your first task is to retrieve the left leg. Head southeast from the Construct Factory to find the entrance to the Left-Leg Depot. Inside, activate the terminal to release the left leg, which will be contained within a protective casing.
You will then need to solve a puzzle, often involving the strategic use of rockets and a ramp, to maneuver the encased leg out of the depot and transport it back to the Construct Factory. Once back at the factory, use Ultrahand to carefully place the left leg into its corresponding position on the construct frame.
Next, travel east from the Construct Factory. Your journey might involve ascending a colossal bone structure to reach the Uisihcoj Lightroot, followed by gliding eastward to the Right-Leg Depot. Enter the depot, activate the terminal, and solve the puzzle within. This puzzle typically involves utilizing fans and a rail system to transport the right leg.
Retrieve the leg and attach it to the construct. For the left arm, venture southwest from the Construct Factory. You will likely need to ascend a fallen log to reach the entrance of the Left-Arm Depot. Activate the terminal inside and solve the puzzle, which often involves navigating treacherous lava flows using large wheels and a steering stick.
Return to the factory and attach the left arm. Finally, head west or northwest from the Construct Factory. You may need to use the Ascend ability on some elevated stone platforms to reach the Right-Arm Depot. Activate the terminal and solve the puzzle, which usually involves using small wheels on an electrified platform and then constructing a small vehicle to drive the right arm back to the factory. With the final piece in hand, attach it to complete the construct.
This lengthy and intricate phase of the quest demands significant problem-solving skills and resourcefulness. Each depot presents a unique challenge that requires players to think creatively and utilize the various abilities and Zonai devices at their disposal to successfully retrieve the missing limbs and bring them back to the Construct Factory for assembly.
Reaching the Spirit Temple: The Final Destination
With all four limbs now attached, the construct will awaken, and Mineru will express her gratitude. She will then mark the location of the Spirit Temple on your map, indicating that it lies to the southeast of the Construct Factory. Mineru will suggest equipping her newly formed construct with weapons that can be found in nearby armories.
Look for glowing green weapon racks scattered throughout the area. By pressing the ‘X’ button near these racks, you can attach various weapons, such as Spiked Balls, Flame Emitters, Shock Emitters, and particularly useful Cannons, to the construct’s left hand, right hand, or back. Cannons will prove especially effective in the upcoming confrontation. Proceed southeast towards the marked location of the Spirit Temple, now controlling Mineru’s Construct.
Be aware of the patches of Gloom that cover the ground in the Depths; however, the construct is capable of traversing these hazardous areas without taking damage. You may encounter various enemies along your path; utilize the construct’s equipped weapons to defend yourself effectively. Consider making a detour to activate the Sitoju Lightroot, located at coordinates 1215, -2540, -0612, along your route. Illuminating this area will make navigation easier.
The Spirit Temple is situated at approximately coordinates 1391, -3118, -0638. Upon reaching the vicinity of the temple, you might find a section of broken pathway leading upwards. If this is the case, attach a Rocket to the back of Mineru’s Construct and activate it to propel yourselves up to the temple entrance.
This phase of the quest focuses on the practical application of the assembled construct, allowing players to experience its unique capabilities in both exploration and combat within the challenging environment of the Depths. The journey culminates at the Spirit Temple, the final destination in this questline.
Allying with Mineru: The Sage of Spirit
Having successfully navigated to the Spirit Temple, guide Mineru’s Construct towards the imposing statue located at the center of the temple grounds. When prompted, examine the statue. This action will trigger the activation of an elevator, which will descend into an underground arena, preparing you for the final challenge. In this arena, you will face the Seized Construct in a boss battle. This encounter is essentially a test of your piloting skills with Mineru’s Construct; your objective is to maneuver the construct and strike the Seized Construct, knocking it into the electrified fence that encircles the arena. Repeat this process until the Seized Construct is defeated.
Upon its defeat, a platform will materialize. Head towards the altar on this platform and claim the Secret Stone of Spirit. With the acquisition of the Secret Stone, Mineru will fully manifest, solidifying her presence as the Sage of Spirit, and grant you the Vow of Mineru. This invaluable ability allows you to summon Mineru’s Construct to fight alongside you at any point in your future adventures. While the core objective of this section is now complete, reporting back to Purah at Lookout Landing will officially conclude the “Find the Fifth Sage” main quest, marking the end of this significant chapter in your journey.
The culmination of this questline involves a unique boss fight that directly utilizes the assembled construct, providing a satisfying payoff for the challenges overcome. The acquisition of the Vow of Mineru grants the player a powerful new ally, significantly enhancing their combat and exploration capabilities for the remainder of their adventure.