Parallel Destiny: A Parallel Legend of Zelda

by Firebird-X

Four thousand years after Parallel Hearts and three thousand years after the "final" quest of the Hero, in a world where Link to the Past and Four Swords Adventures were the same tale, Ganon is dead and Hyrule seems to be at peace. Alas, the curse that haunts the Hero is older than the Great King of Evil, and the cycle comes full circle at last...

10. Part 2, Ch 4: Parallel Lives

Standard explanation: #This notation# is for telepathic communication.

~ o ~ o ~ o ~

Parallel Destiny: A Parallel Legend of Zelda

Part II: Twilight

Chapter Four: Parallel Lives

Cia leaned back and watched the great Demon Lords squabble like children in Hyrule's throne room. What in Hylia's name have I gotten myself into? she wondered, not for the first time. Wizro glared at Volga, who in turn stared coldly upon Decole. The Dark Hero ignored them all, looking away from the entire group. At least he is worth watching, Cia mused. Only Karuna the Moblin Prince remained impassive, regarding the proceedings with stoic reserve.

"This is ridiculous!" Decole threw his hands in the air. "We have an army without number, monsters to shatter cities, I hand you Hyrule on a golden plate – and that ridiculous boy crosses half the kingdom without anyone noticing?" He paced wildly before the throne. "Yes, Gorko was with him, but still! They cleansed Mount Eldin over a week ago –"

"Twelve days," Dinrova interrupted, faking a yawn. "Do you know how I know this, Decole? Because you have come in here every morning from that day to this to rave about it."

"We have to kill him!" Decole exploded.

"Before he kills you, you mean," Dinrova chuckled. She lounged in Anju's throne, wands dangling from the armrests. "Calm yourself, Demon Lord." Decole scratched his longer horn at the Elemental Sorceress' epithet. "You will rule this nation in His Majesty's name, if you remain wise." She glanced at the Dark Hero, whose sullen glare threatened to consume an ancient portrait. "We still control the situation. It is taking them time to find the temples. The Hero's successes were expected. They might even be inevitable."

"Pah!" Dark Link turned his hateful gaze on Dinrova. "I can kill him! I will kill him! His own screams will deafen him! His torment will be eternal!"

"What is more important, Lord of the Blade," the Moblin Prince demanded, and all eyes turned to him, "the death of the Hero, or the rebirth of the Demon King?"

Dark Link glanced down, sullen gaze melting to grief. "His Majesty, of course," he whispered. "Well spoken, Prince Karuna. Yet how do we resurrect our master while that dog of the Goddess lives to protect her?"

"We distract him, of course," Cia yawned. The looks the others turned on her were less than flattering. How dare they look on that pig-man with such respect, and me like – that? Lady Cia willed herself to ignore them. "Time has ever been the weapon of the Princess and her Hero. I say we turn it against them."

Dinrova scoffed, but Prince Karuna bowed. "If you can aid our master, my lady, we shall do all we can to grant your wish," the Moblin swore. "What is your plan?"

At least he has some wit, Cia thought, then gestured above her. Weaving the portal magic that was her family's specialty, the Dark Sorceress opened twin gateway windows. "If the Demon Realm is not enough, we find others."

She pointed to the gateway above her right shoulder. "When the Hero of Time lived in parallel to his own quest, he separated our world from the one where he first confronted King Ganondorf. There, only a flood sent by the gods thwarted his return, and it was centuries before that Hero rose to defeat him. A new Hyrule has been built, and recently the Demon King was barely thwarted. His seal is no match for our magic, and his minions would leap to aid us if we did the same for them."

She indicated the window on her left. "In another, the Hero of Time fell to Ganon, who conquered the Sacred Realm itself. Only the sacrifices of all the Sages and Knights of Hyrule kept him from returning. That world's Agahnim nearly freed him, but that era's Hero succeeded where he had failed once before. However, another realm's meddling has resurrected that Ganon, and the current Hero ironically freed him from an absurdist paint-mage."

Decole stared in wonder at the rightmost window, while Wizro glared at the left. Dinrova simply nodded. "Indeed. Work your dire sorcery, witch-sister," the Elemental Sorceress commanded. "If one realm's infinite armies are not enough, then perhaps three will suffice!"

"Will we not draw the attention of their Heroes, as well?" Volga asked, head cocked to one side. "I welcome the challenge, but our armies will not."

Cia shrugged. "It will take time for those other Links to notice. That should give us the time to capture this world's Hero. With our might combined, we can crush each Hyrule's resistance one by one." Wizro cackled, Karuna nodded, and even Dinrova smiled. Only Dark Link's reaction concerned the sorceress, as he turned away and sulked at another portrait. You cannot have the Hero, my beautiful monster, Cia thought. He is mine!

~ o ~ o ~ o ~

For the first time since being driven from her home, Zelda felt almost comfortable. Gaepora's presence at her side was almost like her father's. Eagus, Aveil, Robin and Luda all pored over the war maps, each making their own notes. Impa was at her back, which meant she was safe. We have momentum at last, the princess decided. The enemy's attention is divided. However, so are we. Now, we must unite the resistance, then take the offensive.

She glanced at the Hero, and her comfort shriveled away. Oh, my Hero, she despaired. Looking at the map, Zelda's stomach fell away where Link had drawn a path to the Kasuto Mining Facility. It was east of New Kasuto, situated near Lanayru Sea. There, the cliffs provided numerous sources of ore to refine. Nayru's wisdom guide us. How did a simple factory shrine become the third temple? The thought of the great facility's Charm machinery being weaponized against the Hero Eternal almost made her shiver. Nayru's wisdom does guide us. It was her Eye that showed Link the way. I wish that brought more comfort.

Pipit strode in, then dropped to one knee and saluted, fist on chest. At least he didn't lower his head, Zelda thought, waving for him to rise. "Well?" Eagus ordered.

"The path to the factory is overrun with lightning-infused dangers," Pipit reported, standing. "Giant hermit crabs. Yellow chuchus. Thunder spumes. Bokoblins armed with electrified batons."

"Technoblins," Link clarified.

Pipit blinked, shrugged, and rubbed his shoulder. "Why not? Also, the hroks there are hostile."

Aveil crossed her arms, glaring back at the map. "Like too many of Hyrule's creatures." She turned back to Pipit. "What of the people there, and the landscape?"

"Kasuto has dried out somewhat," Pipit explained, pointing out areas on the region map. "The Cult's forces have blocked off portions of the Rutela, filling some sections with Ganon-spawn and setting up dams to cut off tributaries." He placed a few markers to show where the dams were. "Even the demon forces use the main river for transportation, but they're determined to cut off the Zoras."

"Efforts that have no doubt redoubled since the cleansing of the Earth Temple," Zelda noted. Long training let her absorb the minutiae of Pipit's report for later, while considering where to move next. Not that there's much to consider. The magical activity in the Valley of Seers is too dire to be ignored. She nodded to Pipit when the scout was done. He bowed, clapped Link on the shoulder with an encouraging smile, and left. "Is there any question as to what must be done next?" Zelda asked.

"No, Your Highness," Luda said, and the other Ministers nodded. "The Hero will travel by stealth to Kasuto, there to cleanse the recently forged 'temple.' With the Grandmaster protecting our civilians," she continued, Robin nodding in acknowledgment, "we can spare forces for an offensive. Accompanied by most of those blessed with the Great Fairy's might, our vanguard shall cleanse the Valley of Seers."

Before Dinrova can complete whatever ritual she's planning, Zelda thought, nodding back. "Excellent. If you have need of me, call. For now, I will rest."

Luda smiled, shoulders dropping in relief. "Wise, Your Highness." Zelda let herself smile back. Goddess. I have two of them now. The warmth she felt within belied her musings. Hopefully, that means Luda will heed me when I tell her to finish healing. She left the tent, letting Hyrule's Ministers attend to the finer details of strategy. Link followed, and Zelda's contentment vanished again. What do I say to him? How do I say it? She dared a sidelong glance as they threaded through the crowd. The Hero's impassive expression melted, slowly becoming a smile. That smile. The princess' knees weakened. Can I say it?

"How are you holding up, Zel?" Link asked once her tent was in sight.

Zelda took a deep breath, released it. "I should be asking you that, my Lord Hero," she said, folding her hands. That kept them from shaking.

"Me?" Link snorted. "I'm the Chosen One, remember? I don't think I can break down before this is all over. Good thing, too." Zelda shivered. Folding my hands doesn't keep my body from betraying me, she decided, jaw tightening. "Zel? Talk to me," he pleaded.

"It is...a great deal to manage," Zelda admitted. The tent loomed above her, and while she had neither right nor reason to be surprised, their sudden presence at its opening amazed her all the same. "I need to meditate. Impa can remain, if you both insist," she added. "I appreciate all you have done, more than I can say, but I need some time to think."

"Of course, my lady," Link said, bowing. "It's just, I'm worried about you. You're pale. You're shaking. If there's anything else I can do–"

"You can barely stand half the time," Zelda snapped, and Link shot up straight, eyes wide. "Do not lecture me on overwork." She deflated at the sight of his quivering jaw. No choice that is not cruel, and the only god I can blame is myself. The princess looked away. "Forgive me, Link. That was unfair. All the same, you concern yourself with me too much. If you wish another's company while I am occupied with matters of state, I will not take offense."

Link chuckled at that. "I could play Charm games with Dorgan." Zelda raised an eyebrow at him. "Come on, Zel, I'm not stupid. I know this Hylia thing's hit you hard. If you can't talk to me now, I understand, but love of Nayru, talk to someone. Please."

"Later," Zelda conceded. "For now, however, I must ask you to leave me be." Again, Link winced, and the Hero bowed wordlessly before leaving. "I'm sure you have something to say, Lady Impa. Speak your mind."

Impa appeared from the princess' shadow. "I am too close to you both," she replied, her voice filtered through Sheikah reserve. "Your choice is your own, in this matter above all others. I'm sure you realize that the Hero will not be so simple to dissuade."

"Perhaps," Zelda whispered. "There are many who would know bliss incarnate to have the Hero's affection. Now that he wields the Master Sword, Cia cannot claim him again. This is for the best." The Sheikah coughed, but said nothing. Without another word, Zelda turned and entered her tent, sitting cross-legged in the central rug and failing to clear her mind. I must free him. Her heart twisted in her chest. If Link returns to me, that is well and good, but it must be his choice, and there must be a choice to make. A small, quiet voice deep in her soul called it madness. Zelda resolved to ignore it. Nayru, help me.

~ o ~ o ~ o ~

"Hah!" Lana shouted, firing balls of lightning at defenseless target dummies. Her Sorceress Tome crackled with force. She danced around the practice field, blasting a dummy into the air.

"That's one fence post that'll never threaten anyone again," Dorgan quipped, and Lana squawked in surprise, diving back with a protective ward up. Then she blinked at the smiling Gerudo, blushed, and closed her magic book with a thump. "You all right, kid?"

"I'm the same age you are," Lana retorted, banishing her tome to fairy space. She looked northeast, sighing.

Dorgan waited a few beats, then folded his arms. "That's not an answer, you know."

"You'd think the one person," Lana blurted, whirling on Dorgan, "the one person who'd know how to treat the Hero right would be the Princess of Destiny!" The war-mage backed away, hands raised, though he grinned as he did. "He's heading off alone to a giant Charm-machine death trap, and he looks like he just buried his favorite pet!"

Dorgan chuckled. "And you make seven." Lana stopped, blushed again, and looked away. I really wish I didn't know what he meant, she thought, even her inner voice small and quiet. "Relax, Lana. He's Link. The Kasuto monsters'll be back in the Demon Realm before they can ask the name of the wagon that hit them."

"Dad isn't so sure," Lana muttered as she traced symbols in the air. The dummies repaired themselves, bouncing slowly back into place. "Link's amazing, but he's not invincible. Goddess, he wouldn't be half as amazing if he was." She summoned her Faron Spear, spinning it experimentally. "Every temple is harder than the one before it. This is a dangerous time for the Hero."

"He also gets stronger with each temple he cleanses," Dorgan reassured her, one enormous hand falling on Lana's shoulder. She smiled at the huge warrior, patting his knuckles. "Link and I have been through all kinds of trouble together. Gaepora's job is to worry. Our job is to kick monster flank." He chuckled again. "As for the other bit, so you've got a crush on the Hero. That's about half the women and a tenth of the men in Hyrule."

Lana bit her lip and turned her attention back to the dummies. "And that was fine back when Princess Zelda wasn't being stupid about him," she babbled, practicing spinning blows on the targets. They swayed like grass in the wind when she struck them. "Do you have any idea how hard it is to not chase after him with her acting like this?"

"That's exaggerating a bit," Dorgan murmured. "Besides, what are you resisting for? If you're interested, scout the terrain." To Lana's surprise, his smile beamed with a friendly, disarming air. "Check out the lay of the land. See if it's worth moving in."

"Link's not an occupied province, Dorgan!" Lana gasped.

"You really need to learn the art of innuendo," Dorgan laughed, folding his arms again. "Besides, you might actually have a shot. You're smart, pretty, fun, upbeat – it's easy to hang out with you when you're not being aggressively cute."

"Right," Lana mumbled, hands twisting together as she looked at the ground. "Before Aunt Cia lost her mind, she was half a mom to me after...well, Dad's the best, but he's also the Welfare Minister. My magic's weird, I'm part of the royal court, Cia was a racist lunatic even before she betrayed humanity, and – and – I don't belong anywhere," she insisted, spear drooping. "Even if Link wasn't so in love with Zelda that being dead is no excuse for missing it, who'd be interested in me?"

For several seconds, they stood there, the only sounds were distant conversations and the flow of winds blowing across Hyrule's green fields. "So. Who were you?" Dorgan asked at last.

Lana shook once. Gripping her spear, she looked up, meeting Dorgan's gaze. He was still smiling. "Veran," she whispered. "Zelda knows. Not many others do, though."

"You've improved," Dorgan drawled. Lana gaped at him, then laughed. "That's better. Now, think about who I might have been, then guess how much Link cares. Ganon, I'd probably do some scouting of my own if it weren't for that torch you're carrying."

For a moment, Lana's thoughts locked up. Wait, is he interested in Link too? she guessed, then dismissed the notion. That's not what he meant. Who would my 'torch' stop him from...eep! Lana's jaw dropped. Smart. Hot. Fun. Upbeat. And he's available. Dorgan took a breath to continue. Lana interrupted him with a quick kiss on his cheek, then gasped and ran like Dinrova was chasing her. By the time she stopped, the sorceress was at Peatrice's distribution post. She leaned on a stack of wood, panting. "Saw the Hero without his shirt?" Peatrice quipped.

"Worse," Lana replied, shaking her head. "I think I kissed Dorgan."

"You 'think' you kissed him?" Peatrice laughed. "Honey, I'm pretty sure it's one or the other."

Lana exhaled and sat on the ground, leaning against the wood pile. "I'll get back to you."

~ o ~ o ~ o ~

The Hero stared at the massive golden door, suppressing a glare. Reflections of the Power Charm conduits keeping Kasuto Mining Facility running glowed along it. "Nayru's Eye," he whispered, casting his mind out. #Naboru? Nelson? Any idea why there's one of these giant vaults in here?#

#I am so sorry, Lord Hero,# the old robot replied. Link could feel it droop where it hovered, outside the building. #My captors kept me entirely ignorant of their modifications to the facility. Until Naboru rescued me, I had no idea how far the invasion had spread.#

#You have nothing to apologize for, Nelson,# Link rushed to add. #It's just strange.#

Naboru sent a laugh through the spell-enhanced bond. #The invaders turned it into a temple,# she noted dryly. #That's all the explanation we need.# Her anger rippled through the psychic connection. #Though I'd call it more dungeon than temple. Tearing the Chronolyte from our robot-folk to power their mechanical horrors? That's low, even for the Ganon Cult.#

It's just a Tuesday to them, Link thought, but didn't share his opinion. #You still haven't told me what you were doing here, Sage,# he replied instead, looking over his twisting key. More of the Sky Era came back to mind. So far, Naboru's been the only significant change to the facility.

#Teaching you the Bolero of Blades,# Naboru sent with a wink. #Seriously, Hero, even you can't save everyone by yourself. I came here to rescue the robots. Succeeded, too, in case you hadn't noticed.#

Link gave in and glared at the door. #You could have said so earlier.#

#Yeah, but your face is so cute when it's all scrunched up.# Link sighed while the Gerudo Sage laughed again. #You would have worried about me, insisted I not go alone.#

#That's dangerous,# Link shot back.

#I brought my swords!# Naboru replied, laughing again.

Nelson's mind rushed through the union. #Is the Din's Might I shared with you functioning properly?# he asked. Link couldn't help a smile, sending a mental nod back. Rather like another robot strengthening my Beetle, millennia before history began, he mused. #It should serve you in multiple ways, granting greater lifting strength to you in addition to your enhanced Din's Hand.#

Huh. Link considered that, then shrugged. Not now. Puzzle first. Putting Naboru's fierce Gerudo humor and Nelson's scholarship aside, he shifted the key until it slid into the door, opening the way. Fi and Proxi radiated confidence, calm in the former case and exuberant in the latter. Let's hope that our scorpion friends don't have any further surprises for us.

An enormous room filled with sand greeted the Hero, which was familiar. Something large and hard-shelled burrowed underneath, which was also familiar. When it burst out of the sand, though, the monster that faced him already had an enormous eye, and two extra limbs bearing halves of a shield to cover it with. It also had the pincers and tail of the ancient monster he'd defeated so long ago. #Fi! Proxi! Analysis!# he sent.

#Ancestral Memory Arachnid: Moldagohma,# Fi reported. #This hybrid horror wields the combined might of the thousand-year scorpion and its parasitic descendant. Beware its deadly optic beam, in addition to its pincers and stinger tail. From a hundred defeated predecessors, it carries a hatred for the Hero's soul that spans all the ages of humanity.#

#Its eyes are still the weak points, Link!# Proxi added, swirling around him. #You can slash the ones in its pincers if you're careful, but you'll need to shoot the one in the center when it's vulnerable!#

Link grimly drew sword and shield, circling the monster warily. #So what do I need the Gust Bellows for?# he wondered, blocking a tail stab and slashing the eye in the larger claw. It closed its claws, eye bulging. Link quickly drew his crossbow and fired, but it deflected the shot with its shield. Goddess. I really need the Sacred Bow.

#It may burrow beneath the sand, Master,# Fi reported. Link nodded, then waited for Moldagohma to retract its shields. Once it attacked, he deflected its deadly beam with his own shield, then fired again. Got you! He leaped in and slashed at the eye. As ever, that hurt the monster, but when it recovered, Link didn't see the pincer slashing in until he was in its grip. Goddess, it's stronger than ever! Its squeeze cut into his arms and chest, crushing the life from him.

Once more, inspiration struck. "Din's Might!" he shouted, and that gave him the strength to wrestle free of the monster. His arms glowed with red-gold light. With a snarl, he renewed his assault. While the added strength didn't let him crash through Moldagohma's protection, Link reclaimed the momentum with a spin attack that caused its smaller pincer to explode in Dark Fire. It became more aggressive with its tail, slashing as often as it lunged. Its eye narrowed, glowing red, and Link agreed with Fi's assessment of its loathing for him. This thing really wants me dead. It dove under the sand, as predicted, and Link smiled without humor as he summoned the Gust Bellows. He blew away its cover and hybrid Gohma-spawn alike, tracking its desperate evasion with ease.

Then it exploded back to the surface with a wild spin that slammed Link into a wall. The Hero felt ribs crack. New pattern element. Noted. Ow. It charged, remaining pincer grasping for him. Not good!

Link rolled away, sprang to his feet, and performed a spin attack. That destroyed its large pincer. Moldagohma wailed, eye bulging as it prepared to fire again. You're out of tricks, then. He braced himself, blocking with his shield. That means you're done. Another crossbow bolt sent it reeling, and he dove in to slash again. This time, he felt its defenses fail, and with a Din-driven lunge, he pierced its eye all the way to the Master Sword's hilt. It wailed, shuddered, and exploded, leaving only a Heart Container in its wake. "Thank Hylia." He stumbled into the enchanted vessel, letting its healing magic strengthen and restore him, then followed the path onward.

After a long cart ride along a beautiful Light track, dozens of robot statues saluting him, Link emerged on the surface once more. Outside, he saw a massive Hylian Phoenix rise over what looked like the facility's shrine, though he couldn't see it past the enormous blue dragon curled up in front of it. As brilliant sapphire as the Rutela River, its back gleamed in the noonday sun. Lanayru. Has to be. Just as Link took this in, he realized there were two smaller figures in front of the dragon. Almost missed them in the big guy's shadow. He started to head toward the pair. #Naboru? Nelson? Is that you?#

#Is what us – no, Link, it's not!# Naboru warned, and Link froze. The Sheikah Eye blossomed crimson-red across his brow, and he was glad he'd called when he realized who the figures were.

Decole floated near Lanayru's shoulders, turning in the air as he practically danced in place. When his face came into view, Link tightened at the sadistic grin he saw. The former State Minister was garbed in his old suit, but no longer wore his hat. Two horns, as asymmetrical as Moldagohma's pincers, curved out from his hair. "See, Demon Hero? I told you we'd catch him!" the traitor exulted.

Demon Hero, Link snarled. It fits. The Dark Hero strode around the great dragon, fingers tracing almost gently along Lanayru's back. "Indeed. I must admit, Minister, I expected a coward from you. Watching you fight was a pleasant surprise." He smirked at Decole once they were face to face. "Perhaps we can kill the Hero together."

"A pleasant thought," Decole replied, shrugging, "but if he shows up, Dinrova's Gohma surprise should do the trick."

Link quietly ducked behind rubble, summoning Epona. When he peered over his cover, Dark Link was shaking his head. "No ordinary monster will slay the Hero, alas," he replied, drawing the Demon Sword. "If we are lucky, Moldagohma will wear him down, but only two weapons are likely to ever kill Her Grace's boy-dog." He hefted the Blade of Hero's Bane. "The Trident of Power, and this."

Link flew up like an arrow, hiding in the sun's blazing light. "You're probably right," Decole admitted, sighing. "It's better this way. After all, it means we get to destroy him." As he pivoted, Link saw that all of Lanayru's extremities – neck, arms, legs, and tail – were all bound in a single tangle of wire. His mouth had likewise been bound shut, and the great dragon whuffed in wordless distress. Behind Lanayru was a great clicking gear of Light, adorned with the symbols of the Hylian Church. The Gate of Time, Link remembered, licking his lips. Goddess help us.

Diving out of the sun, Link leaped down sword-first. When Dark Link turned, eyes widening, the Hero let out a fierce war cry. The Demon Hero danced away as Link stabbed where he'd been. Decole screamed and scrambled back. "You want me? Wish granted!" he roared, attacking his evil counterpart.

Dark Link spun away from the Hero's initial assault, summoning his shield. When he engaged Link, the two found themselves as evenly matched as ever, movement and skill in eerie synch. "So kind of you!" the villain mocked, slashing and blocking with phenomenal grace. "This time, though, I'm the one with the ally!"

Link slashed at the blast Decole threw at him, sending it back at the traitor. It knocked the diminutive demon-convert out of the air. "Mine are better, Dim," the Hero hissed, an old trick flickering into memory. He lowered his defense, aiming at his counterpart's arm.

"Ah-ah," his Shadow retorted, curling for a spin attack. Link raised his shield just in time to avoid being slashed half-open, and was knocked back several feet all the same. "Never use the same trick twice, on any Hero."

"You're no hero, Dim," Link spat, then lunged. Dark Link leaped back. "And I'm sending you back where you belong." He concentrated on the Master Sword. #Fi?#

#Much like yourself, Master, Dark Link displays superior mental and physical prowess, as well as expert command of magic.# Fi paused. #Further information on your Shadow is protected from divination by a powerful and evil aura. Please be careful, Master. I am certain that his hatred for you is absolute.#

#Don't forget Decole, boss,# Proxi warned. #He's not nearly as powerful as tall, dark and ugly there, but he's been invested with strong demonic magic. Why he hates you too is beyond me, but he does.#

Link nodded to them both. #I'll deal with them.# He glanced between assailants. Lanayru's the priority. If I can get past them for just a moment, I can free the dragon, then turn my attention to bringing them down. He shifted, preparing for a run at the protector of eastern Hyrule.

Instead, Decole launched a volley of small, ghostly maws, all screeching hungrily for him. A spin attack dispatched them, but Dark Link dove in while the Hero was distracted, and he took a slash along his recently-healed ribs. Ow. Again. Dark Link licked his lips, while Decole floated on the edge of Link's vision. They know how to fight together. Din burn them.

Then a whooping battle cry filled the shrine, and Decole wailed as he retreated from a lunging Naboru. Predictably, she laughed. "Am I late?" she asked, saluting the Hero with one sword. The Sage gathered magic around the other.

"You're right on time," Link called back, smiling in relief. "I'll hold off these two while you help Lanayru. Then we can make them regret ever coming to Hyrule." The Hero paused when a staccato of snapping metal sounds echoed through the shrine.

Dark Link leaped to Decole's side, but Naboru wheeled away, laughing again. "I brought help," the Sage retorted. Nelson flew around to the edge of the shrine, nodding defiantly at the demon lords, while Lanayru uncurled and floated into the air.

A beard of thundering cloud grew from the dragon's chin as he spread his arms. Lightning played between his claws. "So, Demon Tribe," he intoned, voice booming, "you thought to capture the spirit-champion of storm and sea, wisdom and wizardry?"

Decole swallowed. Dark Link sighed and snapped his fingers. A swarm of skytails descended on them, followed by hroks. "Yes, blowhard," Dark Link sighed, "we did. I suppose we'll just have to slaughter you instead."

Link instantly took in the fight. They wouldn't remain unless there was something worth winning. Memory flashed through his mind again, of his mother and a white-clad Zelda fleeing through the Gate. And then... Nodding to himself, the Hero rushed the ticking gear, sheathing the Blade of Evil's Bane. Once he was close enough, Link summoned his bombs. Dark Link screamed just before the Hero threw.

The explosion was spectacular, rippling through the world of mana as much as the physical plane. Shards of priceless Chronolyte rained down. The approaching monsters scrambled wildly through the air, directionless. Dark Link glared at the Hero. "You think you remember enough? When I tear your precious maiden's soul from her flesh, a thousand Gates will not save you!" With that, he and Decole vanished in a storm of dark, sharp motes.

Lanayru cleared the sky of monsters with a single burst of lightning. "Hmph," the dragon snorted. "All that for some obsolete enchantment?"

With a sigh, Link walked to the ruins of the Time Gate, scooping up a handful of shards. "Even after all the eras that have come and gone," he whispered, "there's nothing obsolete about this wonder." He let all but one of the pieces spill to the ground, then pocketed the last. Spotting the Goddess Crest, he let a Skyward Strike fly. The great facility rang like a gong, and the Sapphire Tablet floated to him. "If you are safe, my lord dragon, I must go. Her Highness must know of this."

"I am," Lanayru assured him. "Take this," he offered, levitating a sapphire scale on a cord to Link's hands. "It will help you later in your quest."

"Thank you." The Hero nodded in gratitude, his thoughts consuming him. If they can go back before the Demon King's defeat, all our victories can be undone in an instant. I must warn Zelda.

~ o ~ o ~ o ~

"Hold fast!" Zelda cried. "We must reach the Gate!"

The Valley of Seers had descended into near-chaos. Phoenix Knights and Goron soldiers struggled in a violent mass clash with the demon hordes. Cia laughed from her perch at the Gate of Souls. Bulblins, the forest-green cousins the Bokoblins slaughtered so long ago during Ganon's last invasion, had returned – but instead of remembering the brief peace they'd forged with Hyrule, they fought mindlessly for the Dark Sorceress. Bolstering the Bokoblins, they had halted the army's advance. Above them, furnixes and hroks led swarms of keese and skytails, keeping the Loftwing Knights in check. From the rear, Volga marched down on them, leading several Darknuts.

Zelda fired countless bolts of Light into the demon force, banishing them by the platoon. More boiled forth to take their place. #Eagus, Aveil, status! We must break through their lines soon.#

#We know, Princess of Destiny,# Eagus replied, mind grim as he crashed through a dozen skytails, #but our position is bad. When Volga rallied the horde, we lost the advantage. I welcome your wisdom, Your Highness.#

Frustration threatened to overwhelm Zelda, but she clamped down with cold resolve. #We have several strategists. Cia has one. Target Volga with all our champions. Even the dragon knight must retreat or fall, faced with such odds.#

#A welcome thought, Your Highness,# Aveil replied, #but one that has proven fruitless thus far. With the Hero absent, only Dorgan is likely to stand up to Volga in single combat, and he is preventing our eastern flank from collapsing.# Zelda swapped bow for saber with a thought, cutting down a squad of approaching Bokoblins. Her mind raced while her body dealt perfunctorily with the horde's foot soldiers. Impa appeared in a burst of Shadow power, exploding through another approaching force.

That's it, Zelda thought, mind casting out to Eagus' overhead view. #Then we will not indulge him in single combat. The demon horde has no interest in chivalry; we dare not embrace it to excess. Impa, go to Lana's aid. Together, you will either drive Cia's champion from this field, or this incarnation. I don't care which.#

#I will not leave you unguarded, Your Highness,# Impa stated, following a kunai volley with a deadly slash of her naginata. #You may court-martial me later, if you wish.#

Zelda psychically pointed out the two closest Phoenix Knights. #I will accept aid, Impa, but you will go to Lana, or I will.# The princess carefully avoided smiling at the string of invective that burst through Impa's mind – the Sheikah able to keep it from the others, but not Zelda.

"Sir Senza! Sir Zuko!" Impa shouted. The two knights rushed to the Sheikah's side, casually slashing through 'blins foolish enough to stand before them. Dear gods, I think they're identical, Zelda thought, immediately chastising herself. That's uncharitable. That armor obscures everything. Impa glanced between the two. "I have been ordered to join Lana in an offensive. You will guard Princess Zelda with your lives." Both saluted. Impa paused, turned a cool gaze on the princess, and vanished.

Well played, Lady Impa, Zelda thought, swallowing her irritation, but unnecessary. I know that I am not yet expendable. After a moment's examination of the battlefield, she released all her pent-up outrage on the massing Bulblin forces moving to flank Dorgan. "Sir knights, follow me. We have demons to repel." They saluted and followed.

A small part of the princess was horrified at the terrible satisfaction she took in obliterating entire companies of invaders. They're not even dying, she reminded herself, just being sent back to the Demon Realm. She nearly flew across the battlefield, hundreds of foes falling to her power. Senza and Zuko followed with dogged loyalty and determination, serving as shields to her rear while she soaked the battlefield in Light and fury.

Just as the princess began to worry, a ragged cheer went up from Hyrule's forces. She looked up to see Volga flying westward, his dragon form ragged and torn. Briefly indulging in a wan, grim smile, Zelda then sought a larger knot of ground forces. It didn't take long to spot Aveil dancing through Bokoblins and Darknuts, and even less time to join her. Together, they cleared the heart of the valley in a handful of minutes. The army cheered again, with a stronger voice that time. "Well met, Your Highness," Aveil called, saluting with a blade and a grin.

Zelda nodded, sheathing her saber. "Well met, Minister. Status."

"The battlefield is under control. All we need do now is push on to the betrayer Cia." Aveil pointed at the Shrine of Souls with one sword. "There, we can put an end to her scheme. Hopefully, to Cia as well."

Before Zelda could reply, the air screamed and wept, twin gateways howling as they tore the world open. Dripping magic and sorrow, the new Gates of Souls broadened until they were large enough to fly the Red Lion through. Cia laughed wildly, new magic surging from her fingertips. Zelda winced, her psychic senses pulsing like infected teeth. The original central Gate of Souls was bad enough, as the Usurper King Zant emerged from it, reconstituted by Cia's toxic sorcery.

The other Gates were worse. From one came a sound like churning metal, only to reveal that it was churning metal. A great iron beast, with wheels for shoulders and hips and a surprisingly human face, clawed through the gateway. It landed heavily, its body almost bear-like aside from the material. Through the other walked Ganon himself, regarding his surroundings with an incongruously serene air. This version of the King of Evil looked like a giant blue Moblin, wearing red and gold armor and wielding a massive trident.

The iron beast bellowed wordlessly, his roar as much howling engine as raging beast. Ganon laughed. "Ah, perfect!" the King of Evil said, nodding. "Yuga was an enjoyable tool, but in the end he was weak." The massive Demon King gazed down into the Shrine of Souls. "Are you stronger, Shadow Sorceress?"

"I am," Cia replied, her voice more subdued than Zelda expected. "We seek to resurrect your counterpart in our realm." Ganon's smile turned Zelda's blood to ice.

Time itself rumbled, like an earthquake in the mana, and the bloated Gates of Souls shrank. They didn't disappear entirely, but all three monsters turned to look at the sudden change in the power flow. Link, Zelda realized, hope reborn within her, as Cia's magic faltered. "What – how – Link," the Dark Sorceress said, and the princess almost smiled. "He must have destroyed the Gate of Time. Magnificent, even as an enemy." Ancient memories flashed through Zelda's mind. The Lanayru Mining Facility. We found the Gate of Time there once, beyond history. That's the true reason they used Kasuto – to recreate it, and strengthen Cia's ritual here.

#Your Highness?# Eagus sent, circling the summoned conquerors.

#We retreat,# Zelda ordered, #for now. Cia's master stroke may yet prove the Demon Realm's downfall.# The army fell back, their princess' mind racing to guess what they would face next.

~ o ~ o ~ o ~

Link trudged through the refugee camp, ignoring the rain. Cuts no longer bled, but he could feel where both Moldagohma and Dark Link had torn his body. Divine blessing kept his body going, but mortal exhaustion hungered for rest beneath the surface. Devotion to Zelda kept him moving, but every step felt like it carried him further from her. Three temples. He held out his hand, and the united Ancient Tablet floated above it. They lead to a secret. And after that, more temples. Always more. He sat on the ground, letting the water roll down his body. #Fi.#

#Master,# Fi replied, appearing by his side.

He looked up at her. Does she not know what I'm going to ask, or does she not want to answer? Link sighed. "We have the completed map. Where does it lead?"

Fi studied the tablet, head tilting to one side. "These coordinates appear to indicate a location immediately south of Castle City," she reported. "Given the surface world's many geographical transformations, I cannot provide an exact percentage. However, I surmise a likelihood that the Ancient Tablet leads to what was once the Sealed Grounds. There, the Demon King was imprisoned, and eventually slain. Is there a temple south of the city, Master?"

The Hero stared for a moment. "Yes, there is," he finally explained. "When Hylia worship was rediscovered, Her first temple was built there, over two thousand years ago. It's become more museum than church since then, but it survives." He looked back at the Ancient Tablet. "Is that where you think they'll try to resurrect Ganon?"

"Shuuen," Fi corrected, "the Demon King, whose curse was responsible for the creation of the being known as Ganon. It is, however, highly likely that you are in all other ways correct." She sat down beside the Hero. "I am concerned for your well-being, Master. You are exhibiting signs of stress and fatigue considerably beyond normal parameters."

"Zant. Other-Ganon. Some demonic beast-engine thing. Armies unlike anything Hyrule has ever faced. Every time I think we've managed a victory, the Ganon Cult pulls another nightmare out of their arsenal." Link shook his head. "I'm watching helplessly as Zelda slowly collapses. My parents and best friends are all on the front lines. Everyone I love is one mistake away from death – those I haven't already failed – and I don't know what to do."

"That is illogical, Master," Fi replied, spreading one cloak-arm around his shoulders. "You are doing precisely what you are meant to. You have liberated countless thousands from Dinrova's tyranny in Eldin and Kasuto. With a single bomb, you halted Cia's summoning ritual, preventing her new allies from adding their armies to the Cult's. Each temple you cleanse brings Hyrule closer to victory."

Link tried to think of a reply, but weariness drained his wits. The rain was downright soporific. I probably shouldn't fall asleep out here. He looked at Fi. "I'll give you the rest for now, but what about Ganon-Too? We've got a whole extra King of Evil on the field."

"How many times have you triumphed over him, Master, regardless of the Demon King's form?" Fi floated up and around to face the Hero, sitting in front of him. "A Ganon from another stream of time is still a Ganon, and you have always defeated him."

Link took a deep breath, let it go. "You're right, Fi. I'm sorry. I'm just..." a yawn interrupted him.

#Yeah, that,# Proxi cut in. #I was letting you and Mistress Sword alone for a bit, but your fairy partner says it's time for food and bed.#

Link nodded and stood. #Once I check in with Zel, I promise,# he sent, then continued his journey. After a few more minutes, he entered the command tent, where Zelda and Robin went over the battle maps inch by inch. "Marth" sat in a nearby chair, mask and slouch belying her deadly sentry watch, while Impa hovered nearby in Shadow. He bowed to his princess, who nodded curtly. Link straightened, clamping down on the pain her remoteness shot through him. "Your Highness."

"Well done in Kasuto, Hero," Zelda replied. Robin looked up in surprise, turning from princess to Hero and back. "Have you further news?"

He held out his hand and summoned the Ancient Tablet. "The map is complete. Fi's analysis suggests a sacred location beneath the First Temple of Hylia called the Sealed Grounds. She believes that the original Demon King was slain there, and I agree. If they're close to resurrecting their master, that's probably where they'll try to finish the job."

Robin leaned on the table, folding his hands. "They'd better not be too close to it, then. You did some damage in the Valley, Zelda, but the invaders still occupy a majority of Hyrule." His eyes darted over the maps.

"We will find a way," Zelda insisted. "We must."

"Maybe a commando raid," Link muttered, leaning over the table to examine the central kingdom map. "We can't get an army through, but a small, powerful task force might be able to disrupt whatever ritual they have planned."

"A lightning assault," Robin whispered, "just south of Castle City." One hand rose to his chin, and he slid around a detailed regional map. "That would probably get their attention in a hurry."

Link nodded. "We'd have to move fast," he admitted. "Go in, make a mess, get out."

Movement from the shadows caught Link's attention. Marth stood, walking to Robin's side, a smile spreading beneath her mask. "I know that look. You have a plan, don't you, Grandmaster?"

"It's one of my more complicated ones," Robin said, lips twisting on the edge of a grimace without ever quite forming one. "This might not work."

"That would be difficult to judge," Zelda said dryly, "without hearing it."

Robin grinned and rubbed the back of his neck. Zelda glanced back at the maps. "Fair point." He tapped the image of Castle City. "Neither invaders nor tyrants are ever popular, and the Ganon Cult is both. According to the Sheikah, only fear of the occupation's ruthlessness keeps the city under control. Given a real chance, they'll fight."

"And be slaughtered," Link jumped in, slapping the table. "We can't just turn Castle City into a battlefield again. Millions will die."

To the Hero's surprise, Robin smiled back. "Link, where did the Castle City invaders spawn from? Did you ever find out?"

The Hero froze. Zelda straightened and gasped. Marth's smile widened. "You think they came from the Sealed Grounds," Link realized.

"If your Fi is right, it's the only logical explanation," Robin continued, pausing to smile wryly. "Well, insofar as you can use logic with magic, anyway."

"The main force came from the west," Link objected, pointing at the map. "How could they move troops in those numbers without anyone realizing?"

"Decole," Zelda replied.

Again, Link stopped, jaw tightening. And the treacherous monster vanished right in front of me. He returned to the present when Robin nodded again. "I'm not saying it'll be easy. We have to send the occupation into disarray. That's where the complicated part comes in." He glanced from Hero to princess. "We're going to distract them twice over."

"I'm not sure I follow," Marth said. "What kind of distractions are you talking about?"

"The kind that have real objectives," Robin explained. "First, a team's going to go into Castle City and rescue Queen Anju." Zelda locked up, hands forming fists. "As soon as they liberate her, the whole invasion will turn into an anthill somebody kicked. That's when we hit the Sealed Grounds."

"While they're paying attention to the rescue," Link agreed, nodding. "It's perfect."

"Unless the rescue fails, and we lose the queen," Zelda rasped.

Link smiled and reached for Zelda's hand. He carefully didn't flinch when she pulled back. "Don't worry, Zelda. I'll get her out."

Zelda looked from Link to Robin in surprise. "Won't we need the Hero at the Sealed Grounds?"

"He won't go in alone, of course," Robin noted. "We couldn't keep Luda out of this if we tried. Once they get away from the wards, the Sheikah transport Anju here, while Link hits the Sealed Grounds by loftwing. All those blessed by the Great Fairy join him there, hit the place hard, cleanse it as fast as possible."

"Wait, that's a distraction as well?" Marth cut in. "What's the real plan?"

Robin's smile grew a keen edge. "Well, we need that spawn point closed, but if it works, that's when the Shepherds lead an air drop into the city. Without infinite reinforcements to fight, cleaning out the capitol should take hours at most."

Marth chuckled. "Especially with the Cult's forces scrambling from one hot spot to the next." She shook her head. "It's crazy, reckless, and completely brilliant. Standard Robin plan, then."

The Hero slumped in relief, eyes falling half-closed. "It should work. We just have to keep their leaders distracted. Infantry demons are spectacularly stupid." He yawned.

"Noted," Zelda replied sternly. "That means we're done, so you are going to get some food and sleep, Hero."

Link smiled. "Of course, my lady."

The princess straightened, then looked away. "Hyrule needs you at your best," she added, clasping her hands behind her. "Dismissed." The Hero bowed and left without another word.

The last thing he heard from the tent was Robin blurting, "Okay, what in Grima's name was that?" For some reason, Proxi chuckled.

"Did I miss a joke?" Link asked, then found himself yawning.

"You're too tired," Proxi demurred. "Ask me again when you're older."

Before Link could retort, his stomach rumbled loudly enough for two passing soldiers to notice. Food, then sleep, he decided, striding toward the mess tent.

~ o ~ o ~ o ~

Beneath her cloak, Lana hugged herself tightly. Goddess. I never imagined.

The Cult was everywhere.

Guard posts at every major intersection. Patrols on every street. Loftwing pilots above every district. Checkpoints between every district. Under her cloak, warded by wizardry both mighty and subtle, Lana felt their eyes peering inside her. Worst of all were the hungry stares, Ganon-spawn waiting for an infraction, a mistake, any excuse to strike. The cowed civilians went about their lives, but with heads lowered, eyes always moving. The terror was palpable on every street. The ubiquitous blood-red glow of the Power Charm network emphasized the Cult's control. Even as a clock chimed eleven, without a cloud in the sky, the shroud of cruelty made the city feel dark.

As she had when they entered the city, Lana turned to the Hero, and felt safer immediately. He seemed made of Master Ore, unshakeable, indestructible. Link looked back and nodded, and in spite of her recently-changed interests, she blushed and ducked into her hood again.

#Honestly, child, master yourself,# Luda sent. Lana nodded, radiating wordless apology, amazed by the High Sheikah's resilience. The older woman's movement was as fluid as the Rutela itself, her mind as cool and unrelenting. #Great Hylia, I've recovered long since. More than a week of planning would have revealed it had I not.#

#Princess Zelda would have had a few things to say about her presence if she hadn't,# Link noted.

Morsego Batreaux, their fourth companion, shared a laugh through the bond. #Zelda? Minister Aveil would have wrapped Luda in bandages until a Gibdo would have stared,# he quipped.

Lana felt the High Sheikah consider and reject a handful of responses, though her mental defenses were such that even a sorceress of Lana's skill hadn't the slightest idea what they'd been. #Please focus, Master Batreaux,# Luda replied. Morsego straightened. #As Anju remains a captive, her prison must be impressive. Though she is not trained enough for a Tear, I have taught the queen a handful of Sheikah Arts for such emergencies.#

#Old royal tradition,# Link added, a hint of fond nostalgia rippling through the bond. #Hm. High Sheikah, I would not ask if the situation were any less dire. I know I have not been granted my own Tear, but it strikes me as wise that two of us wield the Arts while infiltrating the occupation.#

The bond went silent. For a moment, Lana feared that the High Sheikah was about to explode. She's not going to give the Hero grief for that! Lana thought, gripping her staff. #You've been avoiding use of the Sheikah Arts all this time because you haven't passed the exam?# Luda asked. The sorceress' concern fell apart. Okay, now that's something to worry about.

#I've used the Eye, traveled Shadow at direst need,# the Hero replied, #but I haven't used more advanced Arts, no.#

#Lana, Morsego, if you would separate your bond from ours, please?# Luda sent. Her voice sounded mild and almost gentle to Lana. The sorceress had never departed other minds so quickly.

#I don't blame you,# Morsego quipped as his mind joined hers. Then they both stared as the High Sheikah's hands lashed out, gripping the Hero's temples. Master and student stiffened, motionless, for one second.

Before Lana could do more than start to panic, they both relaxed, and Luda folded her arms within her cloak once more. Their minds reached out, and Lana reconnected both Minister and Hero. #He passed,# Luda explained. #Come. We're near the passage we're here for.# Link felt dizzy for a minute, but recovered in short order.

Patrols were more dense and regular around the city's eponymous castle, but Luda seemed to know every alley, wall, and corner. I never thought about how colossal Castle Hyrule is from down here, Lana mused. With the Dark Fire rippling beneath the masonry, the shadows of the towers left the sorceress feeling chilled.

To Lana's surprise, the oppressive sensation vanished once Luda opened a section of wall and led the quartet inside. Though only dim violet lights glowed to guide them, none of the cruel demon flame touched their secret passage. "We may talk openly now," Luda whispered, "though you should keep your voices down all the same."

Noticing Link hanging back, Lana focused on her book, turning the pages as she attempted scrying. The High Queen's location burst into her mind like a thunderbolt. "Ow," she winced, closing the book. She switched it out for the Summon Gate she'd managed to piece together from Cia's magic before their retreat. "Her Majesty is guarded by several false knights and Stalkin, and one giant warrior with a ball and chain." The Hero whirled to blink at Lana briefly, then focused on rear guard once more.

"Good work, young lady," Luda replied. "Now follow, and keep your magic subtle until we strike." Lana nodded, and the High Sheikah led them through several more turns before they came to a halt beneath a grate. "Link. Now," she whispered.

A tiny whuff, almost like a mouse sneezing, echoed around the Hero. Link seemed to vanish, replaced by a young Sheikah with red eyes and most of his face covered in wrappings. Lana stared. Sheik? She spun, turning her attention to the grate. Focus.

Above them, the sound of marching echoed in alternating metal clangs and bony clacks. Occasional huffs and snorts rumbled from all-concealing helmets. Lana braced herself. The High Sheikah nodded, and the quartet exploded out of the passage.

Lana plowed through Stalkin, her summoned Dodongo rolling through them. Morsego and Luda attacked the Darknuts, the High Wizard's vast power and the High Sheikah's incredible speed leaving the demon warriors in disarray. Link pelted the Ball and Chain Trooper with kunai, leaving the monster confused but unharmed.

The sorceress gasped when the huge warrior swung his wrecking ball at the Sheik-Hero, but the figure vanished, and Link reappeared behind the monster as himself. His spin attack tore into the trooper, and in less than a minute the battle was over. "Zelda's going to be jealous," Lana quipped. Link sighed.

"Zelda?" All four froze, then raced to the room's sole prison cell. There, High Queen Davnesi stared blankly back at them, skin pale, eyes wide.

Link and Lana both reached for magic, but Luda and Morsego were ahead of them. Lana's jaw dropped as the High Wizard she remembered conjuring spheres of Light to juggle for children tore the bars away with a single, savage gesture. Luda appeared before Anju in a burst of Shadow Art, locking eyes with the queen.

Anju shivered once. The color returned to her face, intelligence to her gaze. "Luda." She looked up. "Hero. None of you should have come."

"Nonsense," Luda insisted, half-aiding, half-hauling Anju to her feet. The High Sheikah pulled one of the queen's arms around her shoulders. "Your people need you. Your daughter bears Hyrule upon her brow." She made a fist. "And there are countless demons to be returned to their Realm."

The queen sagged, then straightened. "Of course. I presume you have a way out of this death trap? I was bait for my daughter and the Hero."

"They should have made your location clearer, then," Link rumbled, knuckles white against his sword hilt. "Until Minister Luda recovered, we had no idea how to reach you."

"Don't worry, Your Majesty," Lana added, holding out her Gate of Souls with a smile. "Once we have their attention, getting out will be easier than getting in."

Anju blinked at the young sorceress. "You want their attention? Child, Dinrova and Dark Link visited me personally. They were quite pleased with the terrible fates they have planned for would-be rescuers."

Luda turned a gentle smile toward her queen. "Grandmaster Robin guides our plan, my lady. Rest assured, the Cult of Ganon will not be pleased for long."

~ o ~ o ~ o ~

Link does not exist, the Hero thought, mental voice echoing within. I am Sheik. I am the Shadow, the invisible hand of justice, the blade by night for those who hide evil by day. I am Sheikah, the guardian in the dark, the shield of the dark. To those who live honestly, we are salvation. To those who threaten the innocent, we are doom. I am Sheik.

It was harder than Sheik expected. Even after years of practice and preparation, suppressing the spirit of the Hero was like trying to stop a geyser with one hand. Desperate, overwhelming need to protect others leaked through his Arts, jets shooting between fingertips. Calm. Control. The depths of a castle conquered by evil is no place to lose the Sheikah form.

Occasional bursts of speed and blade sent small packs of Ganon-spawn back to the Demon Realm. Were Dinrova and the Dark Hero lying to Her Majesty? It would make a certain vile sense if they were trying to break her. Sheik darted from one ceiling corner to the next, easily evading the attention of the monsters around him. #High Sheikah? The first three corridors are clear,# he sent.

#Fine work,# Luda replied, leading the others in his wake. #Remain cautious. I suspect Dinrova deceived Queen Anju to weaken her resistance, but we should beware a trap nonetheless.#

#I am Sheikah,# he replied. #We always suspect traps.# A faint smile echoed back through the connection, and Sheik moved forward.

More knots of demons patrolled the next three corridors, and Sheik destroyed them all. I wonder what Her Majesty wishes to retrieve that is worth this risk. I can think of no artifacts greater than those in our possession. Perhaps some castle Charm that will aid Robin's assault, he guessed. That seems the most likely answer.

The Sheikah froze, sinking into Shadow, as Decole thumped into view. "Ridiculous," he muttered, balled fists quivering at his sides. "If convincing the queen were easy, they would have managed it by now." He shook his head, eyes shrouded by Sheik's angle. "What did they expect, killing her consort and holding her in the old dungeon? No one listens to me, not the court, not the Cult. Maybe I should have moved to Plegia."

Burning fury lanced through Sheik. Second thoughts? Now? Far too late, traitor. The Hero stirred at that, and Sheik clamped down the harder for it. Leaping through Shadow, he emerged in front of Decole. The ex-Minister shrieked briefly before a kick sent him sprawling. "That was for Lanayru, collaborator," Sheik hissed.

When Decole tried to stand, the Sheikah darted to the villain's side, grabbed the larger of the two horns, and slammed him to the ground. "And this? This is for Kafei." Sheik raised his dagger high, ready to strike.

"I yield," Decole cried, releasing the magic he'd been gathering. Sheik paused. Decole's smirk felt like oil down his back. "You could kill me in battle, Your Highness," the turncoat sneered, "but cold-blooded murder? You haven't the stomach for that."

"Not murder," Sheik whispered, and Decole's smirk turned into a terrified gasp, "but execution, traitor!" Decole kicked Sheik between his legs, then howled when all he impacted was bone and armor. This form is without such vulnerabilities, Sheik thought, the Shadow cold and merciless in its judgement. Your last mistake.

The Hero's soul became a storm of denial, and Sheik's form rippled as if through desert heat. Decole gaped as the kunai vanished, the Hero's right arm bursting through the Sheikah garb. No! I can't do this! Link resolved, green and gold rays shining through the gaps in Sheik's armor. The figure's right eye turned blue. He surrendered! It would be murder!

The Sheikah have this authority, Hero, the Sheik personality replied, thoughts cool and violet. You are of the Trained. Decole killed thousands. Withdraw, and let this be done. Shadow coiled in the darkness and prepared to strike.

I. Said. No. Sheik vanished in an explosion of Light and Shadow, and Link held Decole's horn. He glared at the Minister. "Yell, and I'll still break your jaw," the Hero warned. "Fight, and I will kill you." Decole nodded frantically. Dragging the transformed Minister behind him, Link trudged back to the group, his prisoner limping alongside.

"Why?" Decole whispered.

Link froze, then turned, forcing Decole to face him. "You surrendered. I've killed, too many times, but the rules of battle exist for a reason. They're what separate knights from murderers." He leaned in, and Decole trembled. "Make no mistake, I expect you to betray me. You handed the greatest kingdom in history to an army of incarnate evil spirits. Still, if you have enough wisdom left to behave yourself, a trial will determine your fate." Link shuddered, his fury barely contained. "If not, you will die."

"I thought you were Zelda," Decole rasped. "You had me cold, and you were a Sheikah, yet you spared me? It's madness."

"No," Anju replied, Link's four companions rounding the corner. "It is the soul of the Hero. Neither loyalty to crown nor tutelage in Shadow can change the heart of Hylia's Chosen One." She flashed to Decole's side, gripping his throat in both hands. With a strength that caught the Hero by surprise, Anju hauled Decole into the air, choking him. "I am another matter, butcher. I watched my beautiful Kafei die not ten feet from me, a Moblin spear through his chest. My champions are slaughtered by the thousand, my subjects terrorized by demonic tyranny. All your doing." Luda placed one gentle hand on the queen's shoulder. After a few seconds, she let the turncoat drop.

The former Minister rubbed his throat. "I spent a lifetime serving this kingdom, and for what? So I could be the highest-ranking delivery boy in Hyrule? Ministry of State, bah! I'm every bit the magical genius Batreaux is," Decole snarled, pointing at Morsego, "and politician enough to run two empires – one right under your nose! Yet when court was gathered, which of us was the last to be heeded, hm?"

"That," Luda whispered, "is because you were a traitor from the beginning, and in spite of her trust in you, the High Queen knew poor advice when she heard it." She drew her kunai, pointing it at his throat. "The Hero can never do this. The Queen should not. I, however, am the High Sheikah." Lana gasped. Link turned from Decole to Luda. Do I have the right, he wondered, to interfere, to not interfere? What do I do?

"He might have useful information," Morsego noted, hands folded.

Anju turned to the High Wizard, her body shaking once more. "Can we trust it?" she asked.

Morgeso tapped his forehead. "There are ways, if he is willing." His gaze fell on Decole. "If he is not, Luda's option remains."

Anju nodded. Luda's dagger vanished. Lana and the Hero exhaled in near-perfect unison. "Very well. Come. This demon convert has cost us too much already." She let herself lean on Luda once more.

Link moved to take custody of Decole, but Lana snatched his shorter horn before the Hero could reach him. Lana? Huh, he mused. "Go ahead," she said to the prisoner, gaze and voice both icy, "underestimate me."

Link transformed once more, and Sheik cleared their path. They followed the queen's directions through the dungeon, up three levels and through two secret doors. At last, they found themselves in a room that the Hero didn't recognize. From the looks of the others, Sheik thought, shifting uncomfortably at his core self leaking through the Shadow-shell, only Her Majesty knew of this place. Even the High Sheikah seems unfamiliar with it. Inside was a single desk with three Light Charms, one each of red, blue and green. Every wall was covered in shimmering magical writing, as was the ceiling.

Morsego whistled, fingers running across ancient Hylian script. "If I may ask, Your Majesty," he whispered, "what is this place?"

"Castle Hyrule has been overrun twice before," Anju explained. "Construction began on the titan it is today after the Five Swords War. That era's Queen Zelda created this place as a weapon of last resort." She placed her hands on the red and blue Charms, slowly turning them. The script on the walls moved in time with her motions. "It has three possible functions. It can destroy the castle and all within, should the worst come to pass. It can also shield the castle, if we have enough warning." She stopped the two Charms, and their green counterpart glowed brightly. "We are not yet to the point of using the former, and it is too late to activate the latter."

"Should he be seeing this?" Lana asked, shaking Decole's head. The captive glared sidelong at the sorceress.

Anju's smile was cold and dispassionate. "The third function is a sacred purgative, meant to deal with an occupation very much like this one. It will banish the weaker invaders, and ward against the stronger, driving out most. One interesting side effect is protecting the secret of this place." She glared again at Decole. "I don't know exactly what it will do to our erstwhile Minister, but his knowledge will not be a concern." With that, she slammed her hand onto the green Charm, and it lightened to become almost white, shining like a miniature star.

Decole collapsed, unconscious. Lana gasped and let go, his limp body sprawling on the floor. Link sighed and reached for him, but Morsego gestured, and Decole floated over to hover behind the wizard's shoulders. "I have him," Morsego assured the Hero, then turned to the queen. "Your Majesty, Dinrova and her court will surely have felt that."

"Yes," Anju agreed. "They're feeling it right now, as ancient magic forged by our greatest leaders drives them from our home. Farore's Wind should be safe as houses now, quite literally."

Morsego grinned and cupped his hands, then raised them skyward. Five heroes and one villain vanished.

~ o ~ o ~ o ~

The Sealed Temple, long protected by the Sheikah and Hyrule's priesthood, was overrun by monstrous foes. They emerged from all four towers around the temple and through a hole in the roof of the temple proper, but a majority marched out of a cavernous opening at the base of the great Goddess statue that faced it. Zelda quivered, the effort of restraining herself almost all she could bear. How dare they, she fumed, glaring down at the army of Bokoblins, Moblins, Stalkin, Stalfos, Lizalfos and assorted demonic anomalies. How dare they!

#Patience, Your Highness,# Impa sent, the Sheikah's endless pool of serenity giving Zelda strength. #Our task force was well-chosen. It shouldn't be much longer.#

Dorgan glared at the martial display below, spinning his enormous swords in his hands. #Gods, I hope not,# he replied. #My blades have appointments with Dinrova's face.# He planted one sword in the ground to scratch his shoulder. #Besides, this underbrush isn't natural.# Zelda relaxed, hiding a smile behind one hand. It's really not that odd, she mused, looking at the renewed forestation that made it so easy to hide from the demon army. Perhaps it grew with supernatural speed, but they're just trees and bushes. Shrubbery that favors us greatly, now.

From the heart of Castle City, a titanic emerald flare shot into the heavens. Above them, the skyward monsters swirled in a mass of fury and chaos. #Earth of Din, what was that?# Aveil asked, amazed.

Zelda's heart soared, and the Light Bow formed to hand almost of its own accord. #Mother! It has to be!#

From far above, she felt the Grandmaster nod. #That's your cue, Zelda,# Robin sent, leaning over the edge of the Red Lion's great wing. #Hit 'em hard!#

With whooping cries of fury and triumph, the armies of Hyrule rolled, flew, and leaped down on the unsuspecting demonic horde. "For Hyrule!" Zelda roared, a storm of arrows raining down on panicking Bokoblins.

"FOR ZELDA AND HYRULE!" the army cried in response, and Zelda slowed, her face flushed with heat. Her people charged down, weapons of every sort unleashed on their foes. By the dozen, then by the hundred, the monsters fell. The entire field became a rippling wave of Dark Fire clouds, left in the wake of their banished enemies.

#We're doing well,# Zelda sent to their commanders, #but taking the Temple will serve little purpose without the Hero.# She scanned the battlefield, one corner of her mind cataloguing the acknowledgments of her commanders. The Temple isn't the source of the Ganon-spawn, she realized. It hasn't been the Sealed Grounds' most sacred place in a hundred centuries. Her gaze slid to the Goddess statue. Most of the invaders come from there. She grimaced. #Dorgan, I need your help.#

#Do more 'blins need a double dose of sword edge?# the Gerudo laughed, carving through another pack of Bokoblins. Their Moblin commander waddled toward Dorgan, but the war wizard darted around the beast and tore it apart with twin blows.

#I need to reach Gaepora,# she explained, sliding back and clearing her area with a burst of arrows. #He'll know what lies beneath the Goddess statue.# Dorgan's laughter faded away, and with a silent nod, he raced to Zelda's side. Leaning on the Gerudo mage's power, she cast her mind across half of Hyrule, even then just barely able to reach camp with her psychic talents.

#Hm? What? Dear Goddess, Zelda, is that you?# Gaepora's mind stabilized the telepathic link, his quiet strength as familiar and reassuring as her own father's. #What's wrong?#

#Not wrongness, just a missing puzzle piece.# Zelda shared her vision, both physical and mental, with the Welfare Minister. #Can you tell me what is below the Sealed Temple grounds?#

Gaepora nodded. #A great spiraling labyrinth,# he explained, #ancient when Hyrule was young. It had remained buried under the remains of the first Temple of Time, itself built on the ruins our ancestors restored through their own magical talents and temporal exploration. Though I believe the modern Sealed Temple resembles its distant forbear almost exactly, the old Earth Keep buried here dates back to the time of Hyrule's original founding.#

#Then that's where the demons are spawning from,# Zelda replied. #Thank you, Gaepora.# She let the bond go, both Hylian and Gerudo sagging in relief. They straightened a moment later. #Eagus. Aveil. We need to carve a way into the ancient keep beneath the statue,# she added. #Link will no doubt have challenges enough without an army to fight through.#

As if summoned, the Hero appeared at Zelda's side, along with the infiltration team. The princess turned to greet him, but froze at the sight of one of the newcomers. "Mother?" she whispered.

Anju smiled at her, touching two fingers to Zelda's cheek. "There will be time for reunion later, my beloved child. For now, Hyrule needs its leaders."

With an effort that felt like moving Death Mountain, Zelda tore her eyes away from her mother – Alive! She's alive, they saved her! – then spared the briefest of glares for Decole. "Link," she whispered, not daring to meet his eyes. "We need you to brave what Gaepora calls the Earth Keep, the true temple beneath the Sealed Grounds. If you can cleanse it–"

"I will," Link said, saluting with the Master Sword, then bowing. "An honor, as ever." With that, he whistled and leaped, Epona forming out of Light beneath him. Together, they charged the demon army, trampling and slashing them with ease. Zelda's mother cast a questioning glance at the princess, but said nothing.

Before Link reached the statue, the entire battle came to a halt as the ground rumbled. "Earthquake!" Orielle shouted from across the field.

"Here?" Gorko cried back. "Impossible! This must be wizardry!"

With that, Dark Link appeared in the palms of the Goddess statue. He laughed, doing a strange ritual there, and the entire Grounds heaved and rumbled. He's raising the entire Earth Keep! Zelda realized, aiming at the villain. She lowered her bow almost immediately. Out of range, Din burn him! A sudden realization sent a chill through the princess. Not Earth Keep. Sky Keep. He's setting something free! Memories older than Hyrule itself rose to warn the princess. That's impossible, it's dead!

As the Sky Keep floated up and Dark Link jumped down, Zelda's thought proved true. The Keep's rise revealed an enormous pit below, a great mystic circle inscribed at the bottom. While statue and Keep floated away into the sky and Dark Link watched from the edge of the pit, the circle flared with Dark Fire, defiling the sacred seal. Phantom Ganon appeared within, the massive horned figure laughing up at the battle. Once more, Bokoblins and Moblins began to spawn in the depths of the pit, charging up the ramp while their master absorbed the Dark Fire around him.

With a battle cry familiar to evil across the ages, Link spurred Epona down the spiraling path. Dark Link raised the Demon Sword, then glared at the arriving army. "Hear me, hordes of the Deathbringer! The Phantom Flame is nearly whole! The demon king returns! Until then, you will keep that whelp from reaching His Majesty. I don't care if the whole lot of you get lodged on the end of his blade. Do not fear the Hero...fear my wrath if you fail!"

In spite of the terrible situation, Zelda blinked in surprise. Phantom Flame? That's what we've been calling the Dark Fire all this time! What does that mean? Before she could consider further, however, memory and need brought her back to Dark Link and his words. That speech is familiar. Almost identical to another, from long ago. Royal blue eyes flickered from Demon Hero to Demon Sword. His origins have changed over the ages. Only the blade has remained the same. What are you, Shadow of the Hero?

A quick glance at her mother showed the High Queen restored to her full might. Anju's spheres of Light exploded into Bokoblins, destroying their physical forms. Luda was by her side, Sheikah Arts keeping her safe. Another scan found Dorgan charging after the Hero, whooping as he tore into the ragged remnants Link left behind. Dark Link sneered, twirled his blade, and stalked towards the ramp. Oh no you don't, Zelda seethed, summoning her loftwing and flying at the villain. You've hurt my Hero for the last time.

The Demon Hero caught her arrival in time to avoid a Spiral Charge, but his back flip retreat allowed Zelda to land between Dark Link and the pit's entrance. She pointed her blade at him, calling on the Light to fill her with its power. "No farther, devil," Zelda warned.

For a handful of seconds, Dark Link stared, unmoving, at the Princess of Destiny. Then he laughed, shaking his head. "Challenging me, little maiden? With a sword?" In an instant, his entire demeanor transformed from amusement to fury, laugh becoming growl, smile consumed by snarl. "I would have come for you anyway, but if you stand between me and my master, I promise you suffering beyond your pitiful imagination!"

Zelda smiled back, grateful that her dress hid the shaking of her legs. "Prove it," she demanded.

The Demon Hero screamed and charged.

~ o ~ o ~ o ~

The rhythm of the Master Sword's attacks would have grown nearly monotonous to the Hero, had the situation been less dire. Great spirals of power exploded from each swing, tearing through Bokoblins and even some Moblins. A few of the better-armed scarlet giants required somewhat greater attention, but no single foe – indeed, no ten foes – presented the least challenge to Link. What was it Aran told one of my prior incarnations? Some tyrants believe that quantity has a quality all its own? Having long since dismounted, the Hero Eternal forged ahead, desperately pushing through the onrushing horde. Demons by the hundred gave even the greatest of Hyrule's champions pause. There is truth to that, it seems.

With an ululating Gerudo cry, Dorgan leaped in, his vast power clearing Link's right flank with a raking series of lightning bursts. "Pick up the pace, Hero!" he laughed, winking. "We have a war to win!"

In between strikes, Link pointed at Phantom Ganon with the Master Sword. Dorgan's laughter died on his lips at the sight of the monstrous titan, twenty feet tall and growing, part Dark Beast and part living maw. Horns sprouted from a brow the size of a wagon, above rows of teeth that could crush buildings. Its arms dangled ape-like near the ground, sometimes aiding the horror's balance. Invincible scales covered it from head to literal toes, the curving white claws one of only two chinks in its armor "What in Farore's name is that?" the wizard exclaimed.

"An imprisoned phantom, set loose on Hyrule," Link replied, forcing his way onward. At least the force fields that keep me from leaping down to Ganon also prevent it from climbing past us. The giant phantom probed its prison with its massive foreclaws, pacing the depth of the pit as it fed on Dark Fire. Phantom Flame, Link thought, that's what Dim called it. Hot jets of air began spurting from where he'd run over small green fruits, gathering mana from them. Great, an even more hostile environment.

Like an explosion, memory burst through the Hero's mind. "Cover me!" he shouted, running towards the Imprisoned Phantom. Dorgan gasped, then gathered power beyond measure. Just as the explosion behind him scattered the demon horde, Link unfurled his Sailcloth and rode one of the air jets past the force walls. A few moments' work brought him to the Imprisoned Phantom's brow, already massive and still growing. There, in the center, was a bone-white X with the flickering image of a sacred spike above it. Marks the spot, Link thought, leaping and driving the Blade of Evil's Bane into the X.

The giant's reaction nearly threw Link off his foe. The Imprisoned Phantom howled, bucking and writhing as he threw his head back. The Hero gripped the Master Sword's hilt with both hands, grimly hanging on. Phantom Imprisoned imploded, shrinking to become Phantom Ganon. That pushed the Master Sword from the ghost-demon's brow, and Link fell to earth with a grunt.

Phantom Ganon shook his head, eyes focusing on the Hero as they cleared. Link took the opportunity to regain his footing with a Sheikah kippup. He reclaimed his shield and faced the would-be King of Evil. The phantom smiled, new horns growing from either side of his head, a massive greatsword forming from Phantom Flame between his hands. "Brave as ever, little Hero."

With that, the ancient foes charged at each other. Link blocked the phantom's overhead slash, countering with a spin attack. His cut tore at Ganon's side, and the villain leaped back, lunging from outside the Hero's range. Link felt a cut blossom over one rib where the blow slid past his shield. "Only one of us bleeds, Hero Eternal," the Demon King rumbled.

Link responded with a Skyward Strike, and the battle was joined in truth. In spite of the phantom's power and skill, Dark Link's ritual had been incomplete, leaving only one likely outcome. The Demon King roared in fury when, at last, Link buried the Master Sword in his chest. "You will die, Hero of Legend," the Deathbringer snarled, Phantom Flame consuming his ghostly shape from the wound out. "You will die, and I will rule all that is forever..."

With that, the ghost-king vanished, and Link fell to one knee, spent. Not even a Heart Container, curse him, the Hero grumped. He looked up, scanning the pit. Dorgan was fighting the reborn Zant, the Gerudo's methodical spellsword style a curiously even match for the Twilight Usurper's whirling insanity. The rest of the battle was above him, with Link unable to make out anything more than teeming masses of combat. When the Goddess Crest formed over the pit's circular sigil, he dutifully rang it with a Skyward Strike.

The entire grounds echoed with the crest's chime. The gap between dimensions sealed shut, closing off the Demon Realm. Ganon's forces wailed in despair, while Hyrule's champions cheered. Zant screamed, redoubling his attack on Dorgan, but a broken chunk of stone sculpture flew from Zant's robe to hover over Dorgan's shoulder, an imp of Twilight energy taking form beside the stone. Midona? Link wondered. No time. Later. He raced up the spiraling ledge, relief pounding with his heartbeat when the sorcerous barriers vanished.

Above them, the alien Ganon appeared in an explosion of Phantom Flame. He laughed, plunging his trident into the earth, and the entire battle fell apart.

~ o ~ o ~ o ~

"What are you waiting for, fanfare?" Midona needled. Dorgan snarled, childhood memory tinging the Shadow Sage's words with unmeant venom. "Send this lunatic back to the Wheel!"

"I'm working on it!" Dorgan roared back, then leaped at Zant. He dodged, bending backwards until everything above the knees was parallel to the ground. Then he sprang up, spinning like a murderous top. Dorgan parried every blow, then countered with a magical explosion. "Either help or close your yap!"

Midona's diminutive avatar grinned, her smile all edge and fang, and snapped her fingers. A mane of crimson hair shot out of the stone armor piece, forming a hand the size of Dorgan's arm. It snapped its fingers as well, and another burst of power threw Zant back. "How's that?"

Dorgan smiled back. "Perfect." He rushed forward, swords outstretched like wings, then leaped. Zant wailed and vanished, leaving only square motes of Shadow behind. "Coward," the Gerudo rumbled. Midona leaned on his shoulder and grinned, and Dorgan responded in kind. "So, how are you here?"

"This thing is a Fused Shadow shard," Midona explained, holding out her tiny hand. "It's letting me project this memory of a past life." She pointed up with her hair. "Come on, big guy. The Hero needs us."

Dorgan nodded, then looked up. His eyes went wide. The giant-pig Ganon roared above them, sweeping armies aside with his Trident of Power. Gathering his mana and courage, he raced up the ledge. The moment he heard Link and Impa scream as one, the wizard knew he'd been too late at something. Before he could reach out with magical senses, Midona gasped. Zelda. It has to be. Gods, help us. After a full minute of running, he reached the Temple once more. There, Link, Impa, Orielle, Gorko and Queen Anju herself were all engaged with the alien King of Evil. A blast from the Trident threw the High Queen and Goron champion aside like dolls. "Rabble! Dregs! I will crush you like the insects you are!" He raised one massive foot, swivelled it towards the queen.

Dorgan ran, but Link was faster. He transformed into a Sheikah, vanished, reappeared in front of Anju, and returned to his Hero's form, sword held high. Ganon stepped right on the upraised Blade, then howled and hopped back. Where's Impa? Dorgan wondered, then stared at the Sheikah in horror. Impa crawled toward the battle, legs twisted at odd angles, one arm bent behind her. "Din!" he swore, running to the side of his best friend's mother. He banished his swords, took out a red potion and uncorked it, then cradled Impa's head in one hand. She nodded, and he poured the healing liquid into her mouth.

Impa thrashed briefly, arm and legs snapping and straightening. Dorgan winced, but the Sheikah nodded and leaped to her feet. I know that hurt, the wizard thought, her stiff movement belying her casual expression, but she's up and fighting, and that's what counts. "Ganon overwhelmed us," she admitted, "and the Demon Hero took Zelda." She gazed at imp-Midona briefly, blinking, then returned her attention to Ganon.

"Then let's finish this," Dorgan snarled, calling his blades to hand once more. Midona nodded, a magic ball of Light and Shadow – Twilight, Dorgan realized – forming in her hand of force-hair.

Impa put a hand on Dorgan's shoulder. "It will not be so simple," she warned, blades ticking into her free hand. Link charged at the foreign Evil King, who parried with his trident. "This is not our Ganon. Even should we defeat him–"

Ganon bellowed and vanished.

Dorgan blinked. "Well." He sent his swords to fairy space with a shrug. "Now what?"

As once, Impa and Midona turned to face Castle City. "We follow Robin's plan," Impa replied, crossing her arms. "Then, we must find the Princess of Destiny. The Hero's Shadow will pay for this." I hope so, Dorgan worried, fists clenching. Right now, I'm out of ideas.

~ o ~ o ~ o ~

Princess Hilda exhaled, the motes of violet energy fading around them. We made it, Hilda thought, exhaling in relief. I helped cause this nightmare, I will help undo it. She turned to the Hero of Hyrule, clad in red and green. The boy smiled and nodded.

The Princess of Lorule didn't smile. It would have been a lie. Our Ganon is here, with our Zelda and Ravio, she seethed, gripping her staff. Magical power surged around it. She turned and faced the stampede of monsters charging at them, preparing to annihilate the fools. Link gasped and readied himself. "Attack us at your peril, beasts!" Hilda cried, raising her staff.

The monsters screamed in terror and turned, running down another street. Hilda stared after them. Did those animals just show a fragment of wisdom? she wondered, turning to Hyrule's champion. Link shrugged, then gasped and pointed up at the buildings around them. Hilda followed his gesture, and stared in disbelief. What is this place? the princess wondered, jaw dropping. The buildings seemed impossibly tall, glowing with mighty Charm magic unlike any she'd even imagined. As the duo turned to take in the land they'd arrived in, they saw wonders of magic science neither had dared dream of: wagons powered by enchantment, giant birds of wood and steel, screens of Light hovering above.

Most of the vehicles were discarded on the curbs, unused. The screens of Light all said the same thing: "Please stand by," written in deep, ominous blood-red. Hilda's eyes narrowed. This place is a violated wonder, much like my homeland, the heroine mused grimly. Unlike Lorule, however, they did not bring this on themselves.

An all-too-familiar bellow snapped Hilda's attention back to their purpose. She turned to Link. As one, they nodded, then charged toward the sound. More monsters dared stand against them, and met the fate they deserved. We must save this world. Somehow.

Together, they fought their way towards the center of the city, and the massive, exquisite castle at its heart. These beasts seem in disarray, in spite of their numbers and variety, Hilda noted. Rounding a corner, they finally found a group of natives, heavily armored knights fighting alongside an all-female force in lighter armor. The unit was advancing through the demon throng, but the enemy seemed to be singling them out. Hilda snorted and raised her staff, magic lashing out to crush their foes. Link, of course, rushed in, carving through the larger monsters with his golden Master Sword.

Once the battle ended, the eldest of the women warriors stepped forward, golden eyes flickering from Hilda to Link. She looked uncertain to the Lorulean princess. "Hero?" she asked. "Is that you?"

The red-clad Hero ducked his head and cleared his throat. "Erm. Not yours, but I'm the Hero of my Hyrule." He looked up, serious again in an eyeblink. "Our Ganon is here on your world, somewhere. We're here to help."

The woman smiled, weariness writ across her face. She sheathed her blades and stuck out her hand. "I am Aveil," she explained, and Link accepted the offered arm, "Minister of Justice and Captain of the Gerudo Guard."

"This is Link Smith," Hilda explained. "I am Princess Hilda of Lorule. My failures permitted Ganon's resurrection." Link gasped, turning, a denial already forming. "Please don't, Hero of Hyrule," she continued relentlessly. "Tell us where we are most needed."

A steam-churning roar echoed across the city. Aveil looked up, and Hilda followed the warrior's gaze. The princess of Lorule, most powerful wizard of an entire Realm, stared in horror at the hybrid beast-machine atop a great tower beside the central castle. Great horns spiraled from its head, almost reaching out to his massive snout. Strange wheels covered its shoulders, churning and spewing steam. It clutched the spire with one hand, and a blue-clad figure in the other. "Robin," Aveil breathed. At Hilda's raised eyebrow, the Minister added, "A brave ally from our closest neighbor, and our greatest strategist." Hilda nodded and prepared to fly to the rescue, but before anyone could act, the titan vanished.

"Oh, no!" Zelda cried, and Hilda looked up in surprise. That must be their Zelda, she thought. "We're too late!" Around the corner, a younger version of their Hyrule's princess came running, followed by a diminutive Hero in green.

That Hero let out a familiar blurt, and Hilda smiled for the first time since Ravio's kidnapping. "Your Realm's Hero and princess, Minister Aveil?" she asked.

Aveil stared, bemused, at the newcomers. "No," she said, and Hilda blinked, smile vanishing. "No, they are most decidedly not ours."

~ o ~ o ~ o ~

Link stared out into Castle City, its white stone painted deep orange by the sunset. He could hear the cheering and weeping, even from atop the highest tower in Castle Hyrule. We've retaken the capitol after only a month. Two more Heroes have joined us, alongside two princesses wielding powerful magic. This should be a great victory. It tasted like ashes. The Hero pounded the railing. Zelda. Robin. Our greatest leaders, captured right under our noses by that other Ganon. He let out a ragged breath. Zel. I let them take her. I let him take her. Again. Dark Link's mocking laughter echoed through the Hero Eternal's memory. In spite of his turmoil, the puzzle-solving part of Link's mind churned. There's something different about this Demon Hero. Something unlike any version before him, yet incredibly familiar.

Recognition eluded the Hero. Sear him. If it's important, I'll remember. He shoved himself off the railing and headed downstairs, trying not to think of dinner with Zelda on top of the world.

The court was eerily sparse. High Queen Anju was once again on the throne, but she'd lost several pounds, and the emptiness of the throne beside her echoed through the hall. Luda stood in her usual place, but the other three Ministers present had gathered where the nobles would normally be. Lord Morsego watched the room with a hawk's eyes, while Impa observed from a far corner. Gaepora must still be at the refugee camp, making sure everyone's cared for, Link realized. Marth paced relentlessly across the hall, her only companion another masked Shepherd. Only a few others, all directly involved in the war effort, were also in the room. Not even Dorgan, Link thought, heart sinking. I hope he's not blaming himself. This is my failure. Proxi razzed him. The Hero ignored her.

His counterparts were the most jarring presences in the room. The taller of the two, still shorter than the Hero Eternal by nearly a head, was bedecked in powerful crimson armor. His Master Sword was a bright golden, almost like the Triforce itself. Beside him was a shadowy twin to Zelda, with deep violet hair and Sheikah-red eyes, her face turned away from the crowd. I'd bet a gold Rupee she hears every word, though. Across from that duo was an even shorter pair. That Hero was wearing a dark blue shirt with four buttons, a cap like a mail carrier's, and leather gloves. His sword reminded Link of Fi, but it wasn't a Master Sword in truth. The Zelda beside that Link was gentle and reserved, but the steel core in the heart of the former Goddess had been tempered. Every Zelda has strength, but she's just recently learned to wield hers.

The group fell silent as the Hero Eternal approached. Link approached the foot of the steps to the throne dais, dropped to one knee, and bowed to Queen Anju. "Your Majesty," he said.

"Rise," Anju whispered, and Link obeyed. "Know that your counterparts have agreed to a simple naming system, one familiar to you from the Five Swords War. 'Red Link' is to your left, with Princess Hilda of Lorule and the golden Blade. 'Blue Link' is to your right, with his Lokomo Sword and my daughter's counterpart." Link glanced at the diminutive blue Hero. "He informs us that his current garb suits him." Blue Link smiled and waved. Link nodded back. "Rise, Hero. Morsego."

As Link obeyed, the High Wizard conjured a map of the region. "Two demonic barriers have appeared nearby," Morsego explained, evoking two spheres of Light on the image. "The one on the edge of the city, here," he continued, pointing out one of crimson and violet, "is smaller and more fluid."

"Cia's mansion," Link noted.

Morsego nodded, tugging a bit at his tiny beard. "Transformed and dangerous, but yes, quite." He pointed next at the larger field of amber and Shadow. "The Valley of Seers is occupied once more. The shield there is larger and stronger, but more rigid."

Red Link raised his hand. "Does the shield type make a difference, sir?" he asked.

"I'm glad you asked me that," Morsego replied, brightening.

"Short version, Batty," Aveil quipped, smiling.

The High Wizard deflated, mustache drooping. "Ahem, yes. Each is suffused with demonic energy, meaning they are evil magic. The Master Sword can pierce each. Whereas the larger shield will take more effort to destroy, it will shatter once penetrated. Cia's shield, however, can be disrupted to permit a wielder of the Master Sword to pass, while preventing all others from entering."

"By design," Impa hissed, "no doubt."

"So which captive is at which location?" the other masked Shepherd demanded.

Marth placed a gentle hand on the Shepherd's shoulder. "Easy, Gerome." Gerome grimaced, nodded, and stepped back, while Marth strode forward. "We are almost certain that Robin is held at the Valley of Seers, while Princess Zelda will be in the Dark Sorceress' lair." She traced a circle around the Valley with her finger. "This area is one of the last places in eastern Hyrule the cult still controls. If they can use Robin's power to secure the region," Marth continued, her arm trembling faintly, "we could be fighting a war on two fronts."

"Not to mention losing the Grandmaster," Link noted, glaring at the map. This is grim. He whirled to meet Marth's eyes. "Could they use him to resurrect Grima?"

Marth and Gerome froze, then looked at one another. "That shouldn't be possible," Marth said slowly, turning back to the map. "Robin destroyed Grima once and for all."

"By sacrificing himself," Gerome whispered. "Now that he's back...we can't discount the possibility, Lucina."

When most of those present took breaths to start speaking, Link held up one hand. Everyone stopped. Thank Hylia. He nodded. "Time is short. They'll sacrifice both soon, whatever their reasons. Given the circumstances, there seems little choice in how to proceed. I go to Cia's manor, while the rest of you take Red Link to the Valley of Seers. He can destroy the barrier there, where you can save Robin and drive out the Cultists."

"That leaves you, alone, against Dark Link and Cia at the very least," Impa said. Her tone was even and her posture unshaken. The Hero could feel her worry for him, and Zelda, through the mere memory of the psychic bond.

Link shrugged. "I don't see any other choice," he admitted. "I'll still have Fi and Proxi, but fate will have its way, it seems."

Anju nodded and rose. All present bowed to her. "Let it be done," she commanded, and they straightened. "Were there another way, we would take it. There is not. Link, you must leave immediately. Everyone else is to meet upon the Red Lion at best speed."

With brief, silent nods of agreement, the group trailed out. Link pressed his hands together, preparing the kuji-in that would take him through Shadow. "A moment, Link," Impa called, padding to his side.

"Yes, Ma?" Link swallowed his fear and looked at his adoptive mother with all the calm his Sheikah training could afford.

"Two things," she said, handing him a small, eight-sided emerald. The instant Link touched it, memory of magic surged through him. "Something from the Sheikah archives," she explained, and the Hero smiled. "We normally discourage such shortcuts to magic, but the Hero's quest has ever been an exception. It was simply a matter of regaining access."

Farore's Wind. Link cast the spell on the spot. So long as the castle's magic protects it, this will be as good a place to return to as any. He glanced at his counterparts. I wish there was time. The Blue Hero smiled and waved, the Zelda beside him mirroring her partner. Link nodded back. "The other, ma'am?"

"The Dark Hero," Impa warned, and Link sobered. "His behavior is unprecedented. I like it not."

Link made a fist before he realized it. "He murdered Kagerin and stole his body, Ma. Dislike will be the least of his worries."

"Link." The Hero straightened instantly at her tone. "The Goddess alone knows what traps he's prepared for you. Zelda needs you, and so you dare not tarry, but likewise must you be cautious even by your legendary standards." Impa darted into a hug, and Link held her close for the moment they could spare. "Come home, son. Both of you."

When she let go, the Hero smiled. "Ma, I know I'm not perfect, but have I ever failed in this?" With that, he formed the kuji-in once more and summoned the Shadow.

The last thing he heard before vanishing, carried on the Shadow itself, was his mother's voice. "Once, long ago. Please, Link, be careful, for you go where I cannot follow..."

~ o ~ o ~ o ~

The first sound Zelda heard as she came to was smug, musical laughter. The princess groaned and shook her head. What hit me? I was fighting Dark Link, then...oh, Goddess, they have a Ganon. Memories of her duel with Dark Link flickered through her mind, interrupted by a sudden blow from the Demon King's infamous trident. The moment I was vulnerable, Dark Link and Cia each grabbed an arm, and then – darkness. She blinked and opened her eyes.

It was all she could do. From the neck down, Zelda was stone, bound in shadow ribbons, and held in a psychic grip. Surrounding her was a pale pink crystal. Pink. Why pink? she wondered. A brief struggle told Zelda that her body was completely paralyzed, and both the Demon Hero and Dark Sorceress had set magic beyond even her strength to holding her fast. For now, the princess decided, pooling mana from the faint trickle that reached her.

"Ah, our guest is awake," Dark Link chuckled, and Zelda glared down at the Hero's vile counterpart. Is he...dancing? Cia laughed from an unseen corner while the princess stared in disbelief at the villain's strange jig. The weak flow of magic threatened to reverse, and Zelda turned all her willpower to holding onto it. "Don't bother, Your Grace," the Demon Hero continued, "we have you quite helpless. Again."

The princess glared at the shadowy monster. "Hylia is no more, fiend. My name is Zelda."

"Then it is Zelda we will sacrifice," Cia added. Zelda craned her neck as much as her stony form permitted. She realized with a quiver that the walls were covered in portraits of the Hero from every known incarnation. Well, the ones where he served as the Hero, at least. Cia stalked out from behind Zelda, each step measured and even. "The Hero will be heartbroken. Don't worry, Your Highness. I will comfort him."

"Beware, Lady Cia," Zelda growled, glaring at the sorceress. "His embrace might not bring you comfort." She held onto her life force, but it was like scrabbling at a crumbling ledge with her fingernails.

"Do you like your prison, spirit maiden?" Dark Link asked, halting his dance to face her directly. "I couldn't decide how to hold you, to be honest. My ancient magical grip, Vaati's stone sorcery, crystal imprisonment, bonds of shadow, they all seemed so perfect." He threw his arms wide. "So I used them all!" His laughter was entirely unlike Link's.

Knowledge struck Zelda like a thunderbolt, and in that instant, she remembered. "Where does the Blade of Hero's Bane come from?" the princess whispered. Cia froze, eyes narrowed in an icy glare, but Dark Link beckoned with a circling hand. "The mystery of the Hero's Shadow has haunted the champion of Hyrule throughout his lifetimes. True, it created heroes in its wake, but that was ever an unintended consequence."

Dark Link's smile vanished. "Renato long ago, then Dalkin-become-Kagerin." He thumped his chest. "I finally got revenge on that rogue spirit, and good riddance. Do you know how he made me feel?"

"Furious?" Zelda asked with a sword-sharp grin. "Outraged? Sick with anger?" Her smile grew as Dark Link bared his teeth at her. "Yes, Demon Sword, I recognize you now. As with Cia, I know you, and name you – Ghirahim!"

Cia turned a confused look on the Demon Hero. Dark Link – Ghirahim – sighed and pressed his fingers to his forehead. "I hate spoiler trolls." He snapped his fingers, and diamonds swirled around his stolen body. A large crimson jewel, identical to the one in the Demon Sword's hilt, formed in the center of his chest. He looked down at it, scowling. "Stop that."

"No," Zelda retorted, redoubling her resistance. I must break free somehow – or barring that, at least keep them occupied. Her magical energy continued to flow through her, though in little more than a drip.

"Would you like to see how the effort to rescue you is proceeding?" Cia gibed, conjuring a Light screen in the center of the chamber. It showed an empty road outside Cia's palace, the night lit by a shimmering curtain of red and violet. The Dark Sorceress smiled. "Oh my. It seems there's no one at all."

On cue, Sheik appeared from Shadow, transforming into Link with a quick gesture. Cia's grin vanished. "Your predictions are as reliable as ever, I see," Zelda noted, raising an eyebrow.

Ghirahim drew the sword that was his true self, and pointed it at Zelda with a vicious lunge. The Phantom Flame tore at her life, her very soul, seeking to crush all she fought for. Gritting her teeth, the former goddess clung to magic and hope. Nayru, help me, she prayed. Somehow, Zelda resisted. "Stop that! Stop it, you ridiculous bag of meat! How can the pathetic mortal you've become defy the living weapon of the Demon King?"

"You've always...underestimated us," Zelda gasped, watching Link force his way through the barrier with the Master Sword. "Mortal life is precious beyond your understanding. Every moment has meaning. To reclaim sacred might from this fragile flesh will make it all the sweeter, for all Hylia's children."

"They will reclaim nothing! The Demon King will devour you, and through you, claim the Triforce! All Realms, Sacred and incarnate alike, will be his forever!" Ghirahim redoubled his assault. Still Zelda fought. "Die, girl! DIE!" With a sudden resignation that left the princess reeling, the false Hero let his sword drop, assault vanishing. "Why won't you die?"

"It doesn't matter," Cia reassured him. Link readied himself on the screen against a small horde of Bulblins and Stalkin, led by a trio of Stalfos. The halls before him were decorated with statues of his past lives, and giant rose bushes with massive thorns. "The Hero will exhaust himself against our army, and when my puzzles lead him to me, I will bring him here, turned to our cause." She glared at the princess. "We'll see how precious she finds her mortal life then."

"Goodbye, Cia," Zelda replied, sighing. The sorceress recoiled briefly, then fled the room. The doors sealed behind her. "This is the last time, Demon Lord," she added, almost snarling at the living sword. Again she struggled against her bonds, and with Cia gone, she felt them weaken briefly. I can break free, she realized, if I can just have a few minutes without that blade's interference. Princess of Destiny and Demon Hero glared at each other, fury echoing across millennia. "Never again will I be your helpless sacrifice."

"True enough!" Ghirahim laughed. Though he still wore a Shadow of the Hero's face, his voice had become his own once more. "Your death will mean the return of the one true King! When I restore master Shuuen this time, it will be with an army at his back, twin creations of his glory at his side, and the Triforce within his grasp!" He took a step toward the princess. "Best of all, your dog of a lover will be dead, only to reincarnate for all eternity under the yoke of the Deathbringer!"

Zelda spared a glance at the screen. Link had slain the monsters, worked out the puzzle for the first set of doors, and found a music sheet. "If you insist," she replied simply, focusing on thwarting Ghirahim's ritual. I can't even try to move, a part of her despaired, wincing as Link dodged one Moblin's spear only to be thrown across a hall by another's spin attack. The walls of the mansion were breached in places, revealing the ever-shifting gap between dimensions. Cia, what have you done?

Ghirahim seethed in the center of the chamber, glancing from princess to portal and back with manic regularity. He paced, spun the Blade of Hero's Bane in his stolen hand, and glared. Together, they watched as a wounded, winded Hero faced a Manhandla, using the Gust Bellows to disorient its heads in place of the absent boomerang. Victory won him the Hero's Bow, which appeared floating above Link's outstretched hand before vanishing into his fairy space. There's something strangely right about watching him do this with no sound, Zelda mused.

More mind-bending riddles awaited the Hero. The classic block-onto-switch puzzle gained a literal twist with corridors that warped through space, floors becoming walls. Link eventually worked out how to use the shifting gravity to his advantage, continuing onward. Another pack of Bulblins large and small attacked him, the Hero dispersing them in seconds. Ghirahim raged as Link strode into the central chamber. All he need do now is head north. They must have one trick left.

On cue, Cia appeared before the Hero. She looked at the portal, winked, and waved her wand directly at Ghirahim. "And now, Hero," she breathed, stalking towards Link with a hungry smile, "come and show me what that sword can do!" She turned on the sound. Adorable, Zelda thought wryly.

Link spun the Blade of Evil's Bane, glaring at the sorceress. "I don't think you want to find out, traitor," he snarled. Almost as one, Zelda and Ghirahim turned amazed looks on the Hero. I've never heard him sound like that, the princess thought. That was more than anger. Ghirahim merely smiled and stroked his counterfeit chin.

"Oh ho," Cia retorted, swirling her wand above her, "that sounds like confidence. One might even say...pride." With savage force, she whipped her wand down, and a Shadow Link appeared from a gateway above her. "Have the Master Sword and the Great Fairy's blessing filled you with certainty, Hero?" A second Shadow Link appeared after the first. Cia's smile vanished when both evil duplicates screamed and charged the Hero Eternal. Zelda paled. Oh, no. Cia, you fool.

Link's eyes narrowed. With a swift parry-riposte, he impaled the first of his duplicates. It vanished in Phantom Flame. "I've been guilty of pride, Dark Sorceress, of that I have no doubt." The second Shadow leaped and stabbed at the Hero, who blocked with his shield and sliced the copy in two with a vertical spin. "I thought I was enough to protect Hyrule. I was wrong." Cia took a trembling step back and summoned another Dark Hero. This one charged silently, teeth bared. "But pride is not my sin." The Hero lunged, bypassing the Shadow's shield and thrusting the Master Sword through its chest. The replica exploded into nothing.

Cia stumbled back, summoning two more Shadow Links. They likewise charged wildly. "Years of privation have left me ever uncertain about food. I eat like a man on the edge of starvation, even before plates overflowing with the finest fare." He decapitated the first Shadow Link. "But gluttony is not my sin." He sidestepped the second fake with icy control. "Those same years left me deprived of sleep, constantly hunting places to hide from hungry wolfos. There were days my mother despaired of dragging me from my bed. But sloth is not my sin." Link fought defensively until his berserk duplicate left an opening, and he tore it asunder.

"Back!" Cia cried, summoning four more Shadow Links at once. The effort left her shaking, and she retreated to lean on the pedestal of a statue to Zelda's first hero, the champion of Skyloft. "Goddess, stay back!"

"You pray to the Goddess?" Link whispered, his own teeth bared as the four monstrous clones attacked. "You?" He tore through the first of the four without hesitation. "I've known lust, greed, envy. Hungered for the greatest of women, for things wondrous and petty, for lives not my own." All three remaining Shadow Links attacked him at once. He threw them back with a single mighty spin. "But none of those are my sin, either."

Link leaped and stabbed one of the fallen Shadows. When the other two rose and charged, he slew them with contemptuous ease. "Tell me, seer, which vice does that leave? What is my sin?" The Hero's snarl was almost bestial as he stalked toward the quivering sorceress.

"Well now," Ghirahim gloated, obscene tongue licking the air, "perhaps Cia's boast wasn't empty after all. Perhaps, after all this time, pain and suffering will blight the Hero's soul at last." He laughed, arms punching skyward. "Won't that be a sight!"

"No, my Hero, please," Zelda begged. Link kept striding towards the Dark Sorceress. Cia only let us hear them. Gods, help me! I can't lose him to this, not Link! Cia fell back desperately, firing blasts of power, summoning torrents of Phantom Flame from the ground, filling the air with flailing arcs from her wand's extending whip. The Hero countered them all with the casual simplicity of a man who'd been fighting villains for uncounted lives.

At last, it came down to a simple stumble. Cia turned to flee outright, only for her boot to catch on a rug. She fell, scrambling away on her back like a crab fleeing a fisherman. Link brought her to a halt with a boot on her hem, then raised the Master Sword high. Fi and Proxi swirled up and out, each hovering over one shoulder. "I yield!" Cia screamed, waving her hands up in surrender. "Gods, please, spare me, I yield!"

Link froze as if struck by a Gibdo's scream. "You...yield?" he gasped, shaking. "Proxi and I rescue you from Ganon's forces, and you repay us by bottling my friend and forcing your attentions. You try to murder Princess Zelda, you betray Hyrule, slaughter its people, summon evil incarnate, and hand the living Goddess to my Dark counterpart, and you yield?" Cia nodded mutely, arms outstretched, wand cast aside. "How dare you?"

"Not like this," Cia pleaded. "I do not fear death and rebirth, but to fall to your hatred...to die at your hand because I have twisted your heart...Goddess, please, not like this." Zelda's jaw dropped, her gape slowly turning into a smile. Some good in her after all, even if it's just a candle flame in a Phantom sea. Ghirahim's gloating smirk, by contrast, had vanished into a furious grimace.

For a handful of seconds, Link stood poised over the helpless seer, still shaking. Then he screamed and stabbed down. Cia bleated wordlessly, then stared wide-eyed at the Master Sword, three inches from her face. "Wrath," Link rasped, "is a sin. It is." He stumbled back, fell to one knee. "Goddess, forgive me, I almost...no. Never. I am the Hero. She chose me. I must not fail Her. I will not fail Her." Cia shifted, then froze when Link pointed the Master Sword at her. "On your belly. Hands over your head." She obeyed without hesitation. "Do not mistake my mercy for stupidity. One trick, one spell or blade, and I end this now."

As Link wearily rose, Ghirahim snapped his fingers. Cia vanished in a storm of amber diamonds. The Hero stared at the empty space the Dark Sorceress had occupied and howled in frustration. Cia's lost wand twisted and changed before the Hero, transforming into a more traditional Fire Rod. He scooped it up absently and trudged on.

Meanwhile, the prone seer had reappeared in the chamber with the Demon Hero and sacred maiden. "What?" Cia asked, rising. She stared at her hands for a moment, then looked up at Ghirahim. "Dark Hero, what is this?"

"You had him," Ghirahim hissed, glaring at Cia. The sorceress, looked down, oddly abashed. "He was consumed by pain, rage, hatred. And you talked him down!" He pointed the Demon Sword at her. "Why should I not kill you now, you feckless witch?"

To Zelda's amazement, Cia looked back up at Ghirahim, her expression stony and unmoved. "Because I told Link the simple truth, Demon Hero," she retorted. "I do not fear death. I still have yearnings, though, hungers that I can admit rule me. We might yet be of use to each other."

"This is all you are, Cia?" Zelda accused, struggling futilely against her transformed body. "You may well have saved the Hero from the poison you inflicted on him, yet now give in to such base desires?"

Cia shrugged. "I've lost all things, even hope, save one," she said, arms dangling at her sides. "Your Hero conquered his hate. I haven't the strength to resist mine." Ghirahim blinked, then laughed again.

"You're not Vaati any more," Zelda insisted. "There's still something decent in you. It saved Link. Lana still believes in it. This doesn't have to be your fate."

Mechanisms shifted and whirred in the great main door. Cia shook her head, calling forth a new wand to replace the old. "Perhaps not, but it is all the same." Zelda slumped, then renewed her magical struggle. Ghirahim, straightening and recasting his fighting style to become Dark Link once more, readied himself for the Hero's arrival.

With explosive force, the double doors slammed open. Link strode in, cut, bruised, and battered. He'd bandaged one arm with a length of red cloth. One of Cia's tapestries, most likely. One eye was half-closed, swollen from a blow Zelda had not noticed. He looked unstoppable, more force of nature than mortal man. "Welcome, Hero!" Dark Link called, slashing the Demon Sword in the air dramatically. Link kept walking, his pace as steady and implacable as a machine's. "Really? No quips? No witty repartee?" The Demon Hero sighed. "You haven't changed. You really are a dog of the Goddess, coming back again...and again...and again."

Link stopped just outside of their mutual sword range. Without a word, he darted in and lunged for the red jewel in the center of his counterpart's chest. Yelping, Dark Link barely deflected the thrust with his shield. The ever-blazing eyes burned fiercely, Zelda seeing the glow several inches from his face. "You filthy mutt!" Ghirahim snarled. "You have reawakened a wrath that has burned for eons! This is the day I drag you into torment for eternity!"

"Link, he's not you!" Zelda cried. "There never was a Shadow of the Hero!" Link was too experienced a swordsman to take his eyes off his foe, but his jaw fell all the same. "It's the Demon Sword. It – he – is the Demon Lord, Ghirahim. It wasn't created for the Shadow, it created the Shadow!"

"Silence, maiden!" Ghirahim roared, slashing the air behind him. A Shadow bond sealed Zelda's lips, but Link forced the Demon Hero into a desperate defense, and the princess blasted the gag away with motes of Light.

"No," Zelda shot back. "Link, you never had enough evil within you to create that abomination. It was Ghirahim's sadism all along, tormenting you across lifetimes, but it's a lie! There's just the Demon King's weapon, and the greatest Hero in all of time!"

For a few seconds, Zelda thought she'd doomed her beloved. Even with Cia watching from a corner, her only action strengthening Zelda's prison, the Demon Hero's sudden berserk attack seemed enough to overwhelm the stunned Hero of Legend. It was an illusion. Link's defense was automatic, lifetimes of training giving him the skill to cover for his shock. As realization followed the princess' words, a smile spread across his face. That smile! Zelda exulted. Link was at peace. He was serene. He was free, and in that freedom he became more than an engine of demon-slaying. Link remembers. He is forever the Hero. With that memory came a fluid counterattack that set Dark Link on the defensive in an eyeblink. "You lose, Dim," he said, a thrust striking home against the red diamond.

Ghirahim wailed and flew back, cracks forming in the Shadow shell animating Kagerin's corpse. "Never! If you're so intent on hurrying to your grave, I'll be happy to show you the way!"

"You're really starting to repeat yourself, Demon Sword," Zelda quipped. Again, she shifted in her prison. My shoulders itch. She blinked. Wait, I can feel my shoulders! A quick glance confirmed that, indeed, she'd driven the stone curse down a few inches. Out of the corner of her eyes, the princess caught Cia sneaking a glance at the fight. Her concentration's divided. I can do this. Pouring her strength, her will, and her love for Hyrule and the Hero into her magic, Zelda struck back at her prison with everything she had – everything she was.

Link's duel with his Dark counterpart had become a frantic, whirlwind affair. Both warriors moved with a speed to defeat ten normal foes in any given exchange. All the same, Link pressed his advantage, slicing Dark Link's off shoulder to leave the villain's shield drooping. It cost him a cut along his collarbone, but the Hero managed a second thrust to strike the pulsing gem in his foe's chest. It rang and cracked, Dark Link flaking away from Kagerin's body like vanishing Twilight. Ghirahim screamed again, fury and frustration mingling.

Cia grunted, pointing her wand at the princess. Zelda looked down, and saw that her body was flesh nearly to the elbows. Ghirahim glared at her, and Zelda's slow drive toward freedom stopped, but Link took the opportunity to press his attack, and all of the Demon Hero's attention returned to fighting her champion. With all her might, Zelda made one final push, and her body was flesh and blood once more. Yes! The princess twisted in her Shadow bonds, attempting to use her Sheikah training to wriggle free, but they were too many, and magically sealed to her body. That's fine. Round two it is. She threw herself into her strange duel with Cia. The Light itself poured through Zelda, tearing away the bonds one by one. I was ready for this trap, Zelda thought, feeling triumphant as her restraints disintegrated.

For the last time, Dark Link looked over his shoulder, red eyes burning like twin stars. Zelda's bonds held fast, and for an instant so brief she barely noticed it, his psychic grip pressed at her throat. Before she could even be afraid, the Hero took the moment's distraction to drive the Master Sword through the red diamond, past the Dark Link shell, and out the other side of Kagerin's body.

Dark Link wailed, thrashing, limbs flailing wildly and eyes wide with pain and fury. After several seconds, the shell that had been the Demon Hero exploded into motes of Shadow diamond, and Kagerin slid off the Blade. He was smiling as his body disappeared into Light, the Violet Hero's spirit at peace. Zelda's remaining Shadow bonds vanished into nothing. Goodbye, Kagerin. Din cleanse you, Nayru heal you, and Farore welcome you home.

The Demon Sword clattered to the ground, spinning near to Cia's feet. It twitched in place, then erupted into a great blade twice its original size. Jagged edges and a more ornate, clawed crossguard distinguished its true form from its divine counterpart. It then changed into the Demon Lord, pale gray skin peeking out from a white body suit and red mantle. Even restored, Ghirahim staggered, falling to one knee and glaring at the Hero. "This is preposterous," he gasped, teeth bared, fist trembling. "Driven to my knees by a simple child yet again. Ridiculous! No matter how many lifetimes we clash in, no matter the agony I subject you to, I can't prevail! You think I can't defeat you? You think I can't win? Boy...what are you?" he demanded, question echoing down through the millennia.

This time, the Demon Lord got an answer. "I am the Hero Eternal," Link replied, his fury gone. He smiled, pointing the Blade at Ghirahim. "No matter the Realm, no matter the life, for the sake of Hyrule and Zelda, I shall fight – always!"

Zelda's crystal prison exploded, Cia's last effort expended. She threw off Ghirahim's telekinesis with a simple glare, then floated to the Hero's side. "And I fight at his side!" she roared, summoning her saber with a sweep of her hand. "'Never again,' I swore, and never again shall it be!"

"Accursed maiden!" Ghirahim snarled. "You shall scream forever in the Demon King's heart!" With that, he snapped his fingers, and both villains disappeared in a storm of force diamonds.

Link sheathed the Master Sword and slumped, breathing heavily. "Nayru's Heart," Zelda chanted, passing her hand over the Hero's back. His wounds vanished, eye opening wholly once more. Tunic and armor were repaired as well. Good as new, the princess thought, smiling, the relief soaking into her soul. Well, almost. The rest won't take a spell. 'Greatest of women,' was it? She laid a hand on Link's shoulder as he straightened. "Are you all right, my Hero?"

With a quick glance around and an exhausted sigh, Link nodded. "What about you? That escape looked rough, and this isn't over yet."

"True enough," Zelda replied, "but the immediate danger has passed, at least." Then she threw her arms around Link and kissed him as thoroughly as she knew how.

The Hero let out as much a gasp as Zelda's hug permitted, then surrendered to her embrace. When they came up for air, all he could say was, "What?"

"I've wronged you," she admitted, holding him tightly. Zelda let her smile vanish, head resting on his shoulder. "If I did not love you, want you, that would be one thing, but to deny our bond and cause you suffering..."

"Your intentions were noble," Link insisted, "and your choice is your own. Always."

"And that is only one of countless reasons why I love you, my Hero." For a moment more, she let herself take shelter in Link's arms, then slowly extricated herself. "Let us leave this sad, empty place. Unless another crisis awaits us, I could dearly use some rest."

Link bit his lip, and Zelda's heart froze. "Zel, they got Robin in the same battle where they captured you." He held out his hand, Farore's Wind glowing within it. "I can take you to the palace, but once there I must fly to the Valley of Seers."

"I'm coming with you," Zelda insisted. Link sighed again, clearly resigned. "Even if Robin were not a dear friend, even if he had not joined a war not his own in our darkest hour, he is our greatest strategist, and was the Avatar of Grima. Either one of those would be worth the risk, even in my current state." She offered him her hand.

The Hero nodded, clasped her hand, and cast Farore's Wind. Cia's manor vanished in a swirl of emerald light.

~ o ~ o ~ o ~

"Press forward!" Lucina roared. "We're almost there!"

Dorgan glared at the wall of monsters between Hyrule's army and the Grandmaster. Link will save Zelda. It's what he does. Flickers of imagery from the Five Swords War flashed through the Gerudo's memory. Blue Link was the closest thing we had to a kid brother. The youngest, the smartest, the most versatile wizard. Then he died the youngest. A Moblin was stupid enough to step into the big warrior's path, and Dorgan carved him in three. We lost you before your time once, Robin. Not again.

Imp-Midona floated beside him, summoning globes of Twilight power and casting them into companies of Bokoblins. They exploded magnificently, throwing rapidly disintegrating bodies in every direction. Nearby, Lana summoned monsters by the handful, from Dodongos to miniature Gohmas to Manhandla stalks. Creepy. That cute dance she does isn't helping. He shook off the worry with a shrug. It works, and that's all that matters. Losing her patience, Lana cast her largest circle for the second time that battle, and a giant cucco emerged to tear a hole in the enemy's line. "There!" Dorgan shouted, running towards the disarray the titan had created. "We advance through there!" He spared a moment to flash Lana a grin and a thumbs-up, then raced up the steps. Lucina and Gerome led the Shepherds through the gap, while the Phoenix Knights and Gerudo Guard raced behind Dorgan. The twin Links and their princesses moved to block advances against them.

"Ah, my son, you have such valiant friends," an unfamiliar voice declared. A mockery of admiration, Dorgan thought. Wait, "son?" That must be Validar – but he's dead! A Gohma blocked their path, but Midona moved to face it. With an insistent point of her tiny arm, she directed him onward. "A pity they'll be too late all the same."

"I don't fear death, father," Robin declared with a calm Dorgan envied. "Can you say the same?" Lucina charged their enemies like a woman possessed. I don't sense the Great Fairy's power in her, but she's a match for any of us. Dorgan rushed to guard her back, and he found himself fighting beside "Marth's" fellow masked hero, Gerome. She won't die until Robin's free or dead, but after that – best not to take the chance.

Validar laughed. "We may be enemies, Robin, but I am surprised to find myself proud of you," he said. Dorgan recognized the Phantom Flame Validar summoned forth. "It is truly a pity that you refuse to accept the gift of becoming Grima's vessel. You could have been a god. Instead, you inherited Phoeni's weakness."

"Don't bother taunting me with my mother," Robin shot back. "I remember her now. She saved me from you. I'd rather have every failing of all her ancestors than a single strength of yours."

"In that case," Validar replied, "you will become nothing at all."

"Thank you," Robin retorted. "Better obliteration than becoming Grima, or worse, you. Every moment of my life with Grimleal in it has been pain and sorrow." Lucina exploded through the last handful of demons, Gerome and Dorgan just behind her. "I fight so that others will never know the misery that is my life."

"Then fight no more," Validar intoned. Lucina drove the Falchion into the door, and it exploded inward. The northern keep lay exposed before them. Lucina gasped. Dorgan couldn't blame her. He was simply too stunned to speak.

Robin was stripped to the waist, a bloody Mark of Grima carved into his chest. He was chained, spread-eagled, to a charnel altar in the keep's center. Surrounding the altar were Risen, mostly soldiers with two chiefs and a handful of mages, their glowing crimson eyes all turned on the arriving heroes. In the center was a stick figure of a ghost, Phantom Flame pressed into something like unto a body. He so obviously looked a villain that for a moment, Dorgan was certain he had to be a decoy. Thin mustache, long pointed beard, claw-like hands, an ominously glowing tome hovering near one hand, a raised dagger in the other, a headpiece that made it look like he had horns – they all made him look like some overwrought parody. The malevolence in his gaze when he turned it on the intruders was another matter. He's the real thing, all right, Dorgan realized, memories of turning an identical glare on his best friend making him feel sick. "You dare, girl?" Validar snarled "You, who pretend to be the Hero-King like a child playing dress-up?"

Lucina stalked warily towards the sorcerer-ghost. "I am a princess before I am a daughter or sister," she replied, Falchion at the ready. "The spirit of Exalted Marth gives me strength. If you doubt me, then fight me!"

"If you insist." Validar cast the dagger aside, floating into the air. Dorgan blurted a wordless cry when the dagger turned in the air, flying at Lucina's face, but it struck the mask. The dagger fell to the ground, inert, while the mask split in two and fell away.

In that moment, several Shepherds and champions of Hyrule arrived at the keep door, in time to see Lucina flinch back and turn. Wait, some of them didn't know? Dorgan wondered, a few looks of surprise turned on the Ylissean heroine. "I should have remembered," she whispered, smiling, then racing to Robin's side. When Validar cast a bolt of Phantom Flame at them, she parried it with Falchion. "Thank you, dead man," she called up, "for reminding me who I am. You face Lucina, princess of Ylisse, bearer of the strength granted by the man and woman who chose that name."

"Okay, it wasn't all pain and sorrow," Robin admitted, struggling against his chains. "Be careful, Lucina. This is Validar's last chance, and he knows it."

"I will live again!" Validar screamed. "The false Marth will die, and my body will rise from her entrails! It is written!"

"Blah blah blah, fate," Basilio snorted, charging to Gerome's side. "He never learns."

With that, the battle was joined, a chaotic melee that quickly filled the altar room. When Lana and the Ylissean sage Miriel joined Dorgan's side, they countered Validar's magic as one, and the other Shepherds surrounded the altar. Risen, Stalfos, and countless Stalkin charged the circle, and the fell by the hundred. Yes! Dorgan exulted, as an increasingly frantic Validar cast bolt after futile bolt against the three spellmasters.

Once Robin was secure, Lucina leaped onto the altar and cut his chains free, Falchion shattering the bonds. With an explosive breath of relief, Robin sat up. "Naga. I bet this never happened to Princess Zelda."

"Imagine what Link would do to such a villain," Lucina retorted, smiling as she tossed Robin a spell tome and his Levin Sword. With a glare that made Validar recoil, her mouth turned into a grim, thin slash of a line. "On second thought, don't bother. Just watch." She leaped into the air, over the three wizards, and plunged the Falchion deep into the wraith's chest. "Back, monster!" she roared, and Validar cried out as she leveraged the legendary blade to slice up through his body. "Back to the Wheel, and be done with you!" Phantom Validar collapsed and disintegrated, motes of Phantom Flame burning away in the fading light.

"My hero," Robin grinned. Humor and sincerity at once, Dorgan noted. "Okay, let's clean up here. We have the high ground, but we should advance lest the Cult pin us down here."

"Funny," Volga crackled, fire trickling from his lips, "I was thinking something very much like that." He marched toward the door, legions of monsters following in his wake. Oh Ganon! Dorgan swore, summoning his twin swords and moving towards the entrance. The Red and Blue Links were fighting their way through the force, as were Hilda and young Zelda, but they were doing well just to stay alive.

Before anyone else could act, twin streaks of Light shot overhead. A red flash burst in front of Volga, swirling away to reveal the Hero Eternal, Master Sword pointed at the Dragon Knight. The blue slowed to reveal Zelda's loftwing, circling the gathered warriors. "Think again," Link shot back. On cue, the first rays of dawn bathed the field.

Volga's smile looked almost psychotic. "Ah, Hero. You might not grant Cia what she desires, but me, you cannot deny." Link's gaze was cool and unshaken. "This day, however, I admit as yours." The blood-red knight saluted the Hero with his spear, and with that, Volga's entire army vanished.

The cheer was almost deafening. Lucina threw her arms around Robin, then recoiled at his wince. The Grandmaster smiled, put his hand on her cheek, and kissed her. The Shepherds let cry another cheer. Dorgan was just turning to check on the Hero and Princess when Lana grabbed his arm, gave him a quick once over, then half-tackled him into a kiss of their own.

I could get used to this, the Gerudo decided.