What is the solution to the "The Forgotten Sword" shrine quest in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

The "The Forgotten Sword" shrine quest in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a unique and engaging side quest that involves solving a riddle to uncover a hidden shrine. This quest is located in the Hyrule Ridge region, specifically near the Serenne Stable. The quest is given by an NPC named Rola, who is found sitting near the stable. Rola will tell you about a legendary sword that was lost in the area and provide a riddle to help you find it. The riddle goes like this: "The hero's sword, lost and alone, rests where the forest dragon's bones are lain. The dragon's maw holds a secret stone, and the sword sleeps there, waiting for the hero's return."

To solve this quest, you need to interpret the riddle and locate the hidden shrine. The first part of the riddle, "the forest dragon's bones," refers to the skeletal remains of a dragon that can be found in the nearby Thyphlo Ruins. The Thyphlo Ruins are located to the northwest of the Serenne Stable, and the area is shrouded in darkness, making navigation challenging. You will need to use a torch or other light source to see your way through the ruins. The skeletal remains of the dragon are quite large and can be seen from a distance once you enter the ruins.

The second part of the riddle, "the dragon's maw holds a secret stone," refers to the mouth of the dragon skeleton. When you reach the dragon's head, you will notice that its mouth is open, and inside, there is a large stone. This stone is actually the entrance to the hidden shrine. To reveal the shrine, you need to interact with the stone by examining it. This will cause the shrine, named Shae Katha Shrine, to rise from the ground.

Once the shrine is revealed, you can enter it and complete the trial inside. The shrine itself is relatively straightforward, with a few puzzles that involve using the Magnesis rune to move metal objects and create pathways. The final challenge in the shrine is a combat trial where you will face a Guardian Scout. Be prepared with a good weapon and shield, as the Guardian Scout can be tough to defeat if you are not adequately equipped.

There are a few important tips and considerations to keep in mind while completing this quest. First, make sure you have a light source before entering the Thyphlo Ruins, as the area is pitch black, and navigating without light can be extremely difficult. A torch is the most straightforward option, but you can also use the light from a fire weapon or the glow of certain armor sets. Second, be prepared for combat, as the area around the Thyphlo Ruins is home to several enemies, including Keese and Stal enemies that come out at night. Finally, make sure you have a good supply of healing items, as the combat trial in the shrine can be challenging.

Common mistakes to avoid include not bringing a light source, which can make navigating the Thyphlo Ruins nearly impossible, and not being prepared for the combat trial in the shrine. It is also important to pay close attention to the riddle and not misinterpret it, as the location of the shrine is not immediately obvious without the correct interpretation.

Advanced techniques or optimizations for this quest include using the Stasis rune to freeze enemies in the Thyphlo Ruins, making it easier to navigate the area without being interrupted by combat. Additionally, using a horse to travel to the Thyphlo Ruins can save time, as the area is quite a distance from the Serenne Stable.

Required items and preparation for this quest include a light source, such as a torch or fire weapon, a good weapon and shield for the combat trial, and healing items. It is also helpful to have the Magnesis rune, as it is used to solve the puzzles inside the shrine.

Alternative approaches to this quest include using the light from a fire arrow or the glow of the Master Sword to navigate the Thyphlo Ruins if you do not have a torch. Additionally, if you are having trouble with the combat trial in the shrine, you can use stealth to avoid the Guardian Scout or use bombs to deal damage from a distance.

In summary, the "The Forgotten Sword" shrine quest is a rewarding and challenging side quest that requires careful interpretation of a riddle and navigation through a dark and dangerous area. By following the steps outlined above and keeping the tips and considerations in mind, you can successfully complete the quest and uncover the hidden Shae Katha Shrine.