How do I complete the "The Silent Swordswomen" shrine quest in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

The "The Silent Swordswomen" shrine quest in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a unique and engaging challenge that requires careful observation and problem-solving. This quest is located in the Kakariko Village area and is tied to the shrine named "Dah Kaso." To begin the quest, you must speak to Dorian, one of the villagers in Kakariko Village. Dorian will tell you about a legend of two sisters who were skilled swordswomen and how their story is connected to a hidden shrine. The quest involves uncovering the shrine by following the clues related to the sisters' tale.

To start, you need to head to the location where the shrine is hidden. The shrine is located near the Kakariko Village, specifically to the east of the village, near the cliffs. The exact spot is marked by a small pond with a tree and a stone pedestal. The pedestal has an inscription that provides a clue about the shrine's activation. The clue mentions that the shrine will appear when the pedestal is struck by a sword at the right time. This is where the mechanics of the quest come into play.

The key to solving this puzzle is understanding the timing and the method of striking the pedestal. The clue hints that the shrine will appear when the pedestal is struck by a sword at the "right time." This "right time" refers to the time of day when the sun is setting, specifically during the golden hour just before dusk. To trigger the shrine, you need to strike the pedestal with a sword during this specific time window. It is important to note that the sword must be a one-handed sword, as two-handed weapons or other tools will not work.

To prepare for this quest, you should ensure you have a one-handed sword in your inventory. If you do not have one, you can find one in various locations around Hyrule or purchase one from a merchant. Additionally, it is helpful to have a way to track the time of day. You can use the in-game clock by opening the map and checking the position of the sun. Alternatively, you can wait at a campfire until the desired time.

Once you are ready, position yourself near the pedestal and wait until the sun is setting. As the sun approaches the horizon, draw your one-handed sword and strike the pedestal. If done correctly, the shrine will emerge from the ground, allowing you to enter and complete the trial inside. The shrine itself contains a straightforward puzzle that involves using your sword to deflect energy orbs, so be prepared for some combat mechanics.

There are a few common mistakes to avoid during this quest. One mistake is striking the pedestal at the wrong time of day. If you strike it too early or too late, the shrine will not appear, and you will need to wait for the next sunset. Another mistake is using the wrong type of weapon. Only a one-handed sword will work, so make sure you have one equipped. Additionally, some players may overlook the importance of the time of day and try to brute-force the solution, which will not yield results.

For advanced players, there are a few optimizations you can consider. If you have the Sheikah Sensor upgraded, you can set it to detect shrines, which will help you locate the pedestal more easily. Additionally, if you have the ability to create a campfire, you can fast-forward time to the desired moment, saving you from waiting in real-time. This can be particularly useful if you arrive at the location during the morning or midday.

In terms of alternative approaches, some players have reported success by using different methods to strike the pedestal, such as using a thrown weapon or a remote bomb. However, these methods are not guaranteed to work and may require multiple attempts. The most reliable method is to use a one-handed sword at the correct time of day.

Overall, "The Silent Swordswomen" shrine quest is a great example of how Breath of the Wild encourages players to think creatively and pay attention to environmental clues. By following the steps outlined above and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully complete the quest and unlock the Dah Kaso shrine. This quest not only rewards you with a spirit orb but also provides a deeper connection to the lore and history of Kakariko Village, enriching your overall experience in the game.