Chapter 159 - Hyrule Invasion - Part 7

Summary: Monster attacks continue throughout Hyrule as Princess Zelda assumes command in her mother's absence. Link joins Queen Zelda at Hateno Village, and they journey together to Eventide Island.

It was morning at the Soh Kofi Shrine near Inogo Bridge, and there were now eighteen Zora guards stationed there accompanied by Midon, Linky, and Mila. Black Lizalfos were now the regular enemy and were battled in teams of six. Hours earlier, the first Silver Lizalfos had appeared, and it was agreed that Linky and Midon would save their strength to aid in the fight against these stronger enemies, and the Zora guards would handle anything weaker. As Link had demonstrated, generous use of Ice Arrows led to easier and safer combat.

But it was not foolproof. One Lizalfos had shaken off the effects of an Ice Arrow sooner than expected and managed to slash one of the guards with its weapon before finally being destroyed.

"Here, let me help you," said Mila as she rushed to aid the Zora guard, who was clutching his shoulder in pain.

"Thank you, Lady Mila, having you here is a blessing," the guard moaned as she used her inherited healing magic to close the wound. "Those things are fast!"

When the wound was healed, Mila returned to where Midon and Linky were sitting, weapons in hand. Both looked tired but determined and were relieved to get some rest when anything less than a Silver enemy appeared.

"Do you need some more fish?" Mila asked, but both shook their head. They had eaten a Hearty Bass not too much earlier, though its effects were wearing off.

"Maybe in an hour or so when the other guards eat," said Midon, and Linky shook his head in agreement. Mila yawned, then sat with them and waited.

Meanwhile, it was morning at Hyrule Castle, and Queen Zelda was saying goodbye to her two daughters before leaving to meet Link at Hateno Village. Zelda was wearing the Sheikah outfit Impa had supplied her with and had the Bow of Light with her.

"You look very Sheikah, Mom," said Astra. "It's cool!"

"It's for added stealth, sweetheart," said Zelda. "The outfit is very comfortable."

"It looks good on you, Mother," said Princess Zelda.

"Thank you," said Queen Zelda. "Well, it's time for me to go. Zelda, do you have any questions before I leave?"

"No, Mother, we've been over everything, and I feel comfortable handling your duties while you're gone," said Princess Zelda. "I will work with General Haston after you leave."

"I still think I should go with you, Mom," said Astra. "I could help."

"I know you could, dear," said Queen Zelda. "But Link will be with me, and he wants to keep it to just the two of us. Besides, I feel better knowing you will be here to defend our people if necessary, including our family."

Then Queen Zelda stood to go, and she hugged and kissed each of them.

"Give Horwell a kiss for me," said Queen Zelda. "He's an adorable little boy."

"I will," said Princess Zelda.

"I love you both so very much," said Zelda. "I've had the joy and privilege of watching you grow into the capable individuals you've become, and I couldn't be prouder of you. Be well, and may Hylia watch over you."

"I love you, and may Hylia watch over you, Mother," said Princess Zelda.

"I love you too, Mom," said Astra, as she wiped her eyes.

Queen Zelda left while Astra and Princess Zelda watched her go.

"You know, Astra, at first I felt uncomfortable about Mother using that anti-aging rune to make herself young again," said Princess Zelda. "Now, I'm glad she did."

"I always liked the idea, Zel," said Astra. "Why shouldn't she?"

Queen Zelda made her way to where a small watercraft with two Royal Guards awaited her.

"Good morning," said Zelda. "How is the passage downriver?"

"It's quite safe, Your Majesty," said the Captain. "Rudania is holding the shrine on Crenel Hills, and the Orsedd Bridge is secure. Hateno Village itself is also secure. The weather is fair, and it should be a quick ride south and then east on the Squabble and Fir Rivers on into Lake Jarrah."

"That's good to know, thank you, Captain," said Zelda. "If you're ready, then let's be off."

One guard undid the moorings as the Captain started the propulsion system and piloted the craft, steering it through the castle moat and then onward to the Hylia River. Zelda turned to look back at the castle for a moment as it receded behind them, then she turned around to watch the shore as it passed by.

Despite all the technological progress, a good deal had not changed over the years, and she was quite familiar with Central Hyrule. As they passed East of the Applean Forest, Zelda smiled and closed her eyes. She remembered one time riding there as a young girl, and then her horse smelled the apples and started getting feisty on her. She had to stop and dismount so she and her horse could both enjoy a tasty apple. Or several apples in her horse's case! She grew up riding horses and still loved doing some horseback riding when she could. You were closer to nature that way. You could feel the horse's movements and smell the ground underfoot, see trees and flowers up close, watch deer forage and birds peck for food. When she returned, she promised herself that she would ride out here again. Just then, the annoyed squawk of some ducks their boat had disturbed interrupted her thoughts, and she returned to watching the shore glide by.

Meanwhile, inside Divine Beast Vah Ruta on Tal Tal Peak, Link stirred in his sleep, then opened his eyes. At first, he squinted, unsure where he was. Then he realized his head was lying in Mipha's lap, and he felt her hand smooth his hair. He sat up to see Mipha smiling at him.

"You slept well, sweetheart," said Mipha.

"Good morning," said Link after they shared a quick kiss. "Did you sleep at all, sweetheart?"

"I dozed off for a bit," said Mipha. "I wanted to make sure you rested well."

"I did," said Link. "I feel fully refreshed."

"A guard dropped off a cooking pot," said Mipha as she got up and lit a fire. "I'll cook you a Hearty Bass that Mila left this morning. I already ate."

"Mila came here while I slept?" said Link.

"Yes, she delivered some fresh fish for both of us early this morning and said to give you an extra kiss for her," said Mipha. "She would have liked to stay until you awoke but thought she should return to Inogo Bridge to be with Midon and Linky."

"Of course, that makes sense, though I'm sorry I missed her," said Link. "I feel I'm getting spoiled these days with first Lapha and now you cooking my meals. But thank you."

Mipha finished cooking the fish, and Link began to eat.

"Delicious!" Link said after swallowing a bite. "The Domain is still secure?"

"Yes," said Mipha. "The situation has worsened a bit as you predicted. They are reporting an occasional Silver Lizalfos mixed in with the Black variety. Midon and Linky are helping to battle the stronger Lizalfos."

"All the more need for me to deal with this," said Link, shaking his head.

Link consulted his Tab and saw a message from Zelda saying she was on her way to Hateno Village. And there was a message from Tila saying she had secured a boat for his travels. Link quietly finished his fish, then stood up to go.

"That gave me a nice boost, thanks," said Link. "I always feel better after a hearty meal."

Mipha smiled at his pun as they reached out for each other and embraced and then kissed. They held each other tightly as if neither wanted to let go.

"That first kiss was Mila's," said Mipha finally. "This one is mine."

Their second kiss was a longer, more emotional one.

"I guess I already said it all last night," said Link finally. "I love you. May Nayru and Hylia bless you always."

"May they bless and protect you, too," said Mipha. "You know I love you with all my heart."

Then Mipha walked with him to Ruta's entrance, and she lowered the platform.

"Now believe in yourself, and go defeat our enemy," said Mipha.

And just then, as if to offer her own encouragement, Ruta bellowed loudly. Link smiled, nodded, and then left as Mipha closed the entrance.

Link turned back once on his way and saw Mipha watching him from atop Ruta. She waved to him, and he waved back. He hadn't done that in quite a while, he thought, wave to Mipha while she stood upon Ruta. It reminded him of his TimeShift stone visit with her at East Reservoir Lake way back when. She had waved to him then too, so excited and overjoyed at his unexpected visit a week after they had finally shared their love for each other. And he couldn't hold back his tears at the chance to be with her after three long years of mourning her death. He shook his head to clear his thoughts, then made his way to Spool Bight with the sword that seals the darkness slung over his shoulder.

As her message showed, Tila had arranged for a high-speed boat to transport him to Hateno Beach, and two North Hyrule Zora guards with their distinctive red coral insignia welcomed him aboard when he arrived.

"Welcome! Have you ridden in one of these before, Prince Link?" said the boat's pilot as Link took a seat.

"No, never," said Link.

"It's a pretty smooth ride, but quite fast, so make sure you are seated well," said the pilot.

With that, they got underway, and the boat was faithful to the pilot's words. They skimmed over the water so fast that Link had to lower his head from the strength of the wind in his face.

Meanwhile, Zelda's boat slowed as it neared the pier at the northeast corner of Lake Jarrah. After they secured the boat, Zelda disembarked, and she and her two guards boarded a small motorized vehicle that was waiting there for her.

In happier times, she would have loved to hike to the village, but it was way too far given the time, and this was both quicker and safer. They left at once, and Zelda looked out the window as they traveled north of Camphor Pond. She remembered it was close by that she later learned Link's son had been badly injured. Thank Hylia, he recovered! Then she leaned back as the road climbed for a bit, then leveled out as it passed briefly between Ginner and Midla Woods. It climbed once again until they reached the Hateno Village entrance, where two guards waved them through and into the village itself.

Hateno Village looked peaceful, as it always did, its windmills turning slowly in the morning breeze. But it was clearly not back to normal. Some shops were still closed, and guards were evident at several locations patrolling the area.

She and Link had agreed to meet at Hateno Beach, so the Captain drove through town and directly there. As they neared the beach south of town, the landscape suddenly turned tropical with palm trees dotting the shore. When they arrived, they all exited the vehicle.

"Thank you, the trip here was excellent," said Zelda to her two guards.

"We are happy to be of service, Your Majesty," said the Captain as he bowed.

Zelda turned and looked out to sea, shielding her eyes from the sun. Tenoko Island was clearly visible, and she could make out the North Hyrule Zora guards who were keeping it contained. Beyond that, you could see Eventide Island.

"The boat you are waiting for should arrive any minute, Your Majesty," said the Captain as he pointed to the East where you could make out a small boat zipping along the water after having rounded Mapla Point. After a few more minutes, the ship carrying Link slowed and docked.

"Well, thank you," said Link to the Zora guards on the boat as he caught his breath. "That was quite a ride!"

"We are happy to be of service," the pilot said, bowing. "My understanding is we are also to transport you and Her Majesty to Eventide Island. Is that not so?"

"Yes, well, I guess that would work, but only go slowly," said Link. "We don't want to draw attention to our arrival."

"Understood," said the pilot.

Zelda and her two guards approached.

"Nice outfit, Zelda," said Link as he and Zelda hugged hello. "Give me a moment to change into mine."

Link ducked behind a small cluster of trees and changed into his Sheikah outfit.

"We look like a couple of Sheikah assassins, don't we?" laughed Zelda when Link returned. "Though come to think of it, that's exactly what we intend to be."

"Yes, Hylia willing," said Link. "Are you ready? I was going to take a small raft to the island, but the North Hyrule Zora agreed to transport us there instead."

"Whatever you think best, Link," said Zelda.

They made their way to the boat Link had traveled on and were soon underway. The pilot kept the boat's speed slow this time, and the propulsion system, powered by ancient energy, was silent. The effect was as if they were coasting across the calm Necluda Sea. The Zora guards on board waved to their colleagues on Tenoko Island as they passed, then they continued on toward Eventide Island.

"The southern end of the island would be best for us," said Link to the pilot.

"We're not exploring the island," Link explained to Zelda. "So, I want to head directly to the shrine atop Koholit Rock. It's a bit of a climb, and we just need to hope it doesn't start raining. Let's silence our Tabs now too."

"I understand," said Zelda as she did so. "I should mention that the cameras you left on the island haven't picked up anything suspicious. So, either there is nothing to see, or whatever there is to see is being quite clever."

They sat quietly as the island grew closer, and both Link and Zelda scanned the beach for any movement. But there was nothing significant, only some wildlife. The pilot steered the boat around a shoal of rocks at the southern part of the island, then brought it right up to the shore. Link stood up and hopped out, then took Zelda's hand, helping her to join him on land.

"Our prayers go with you both," said the Zora pilot as he bowed. "Mistress Tila told us what your journey is about."

"Thank you, and thank you for the transport," said Link. "You saved me some heavy rowing if the wind proved unfavorable."

The pilot steered the boat back out to sea, and Link and Zelda watched as it headed quietly toward Tenoko Island to assist the guards stationed there.

Link then looked around. Eventide Island was reasonably quiet now, too. The midday sun was shining through some scattered clouds, and the only sounds were the lapping of waves against the shore and the occasional cry of a bird. A pair of Pink Herons were strutting along the beach nearby, searching for food. There was no other sign of activity and no sign of anything evil. There were no clouds of purple malice floating about, no globs of malice on the ground, no fearful bolts of purple lightning. For all anyone could tell, there was nothing at all wrong here. But if Link was right, there was something very wrong here. Of course, he could be wrong. But he didn't think so.

"You okay?" said Zelda, interrupting his thoughts.

"Yes, sorry, I was lost in thought," said Link. "We should start climbing, as it rains here a good deal. And let me go first to make sure things are safe. We can take a brief rest on the first plateau above."

"That's fine," said Zelda. "As I recall, that's the site of the ruined settlement, the place referenced in the ancient document that Dr. Purah found."

"Yes, that's right," said Link as they began their climb.

Meanwhile, back on Tal Tal peak, Mipha had remained atop Ruta after watching Link leave. Then a short time afterward, she saw someone approaching, and her Tab went off.

"Lapha?" said Mipha, answering her Tab.

"Yes, it's me, Mom," said Lapha. "The house is rather lonely right now. Tila is out playing with Tara, and the rest are at Inogo Bridge. Can I join you on Ruta?"

"Of course, dear," said Mipha as she lowered the entrance and went below to welcome Lapha with a hug and kiss.

"I suspect you're here to keep me company, not the other way around," said Mipha. "Thank you, sweetheart. Let's go on top. It's a splendid view!"

Lapha took Mipha's hand as they made their way to the top of the Divine Beast.

"This is a superb view," said Lapha when they arrived, and she looked across the landscape. Ruta was still beaming energy at the shrine in Ulria Grotto. After several minutes, Lapha spoke up again.

"Perhaps you could describe how your thoughts interact with Ruta, Mom, how you feel while controlling Ruta," said Lapha.

Mipha smiled at her.

"It's for my research," said Lapha.

"I know what you're doing, sweetheart, trying to take my mind off worrying about your father," said Mipha. "That's fine. I don't mind discussing Ruta. We're quite close, are we not, Ruta?"

And Ruta squirted some water into the air with its trunk, making them both laugh.

Meanwhile, Link and Zelda finished their climb and reached the first plateau where the broken ruins of an old settlement remained. The camera Link had installed on his last visit was still there, and that reminded Link of something.

"Oh, I forgot, I'm supposed to use this proximity rune to check the area," said Link as he pulled out his Tab.

Link activated the rune, and it showed only Zelda standing beside him. He put away his Tab.

"Nothing nearby," said Link. "The island seems deserted."

"That's probably what it was intended to look like," said Zelda. "But I trust your instincts, Link, that something evil is here."

"If I'm wrong, it does no other harm than we lost some time," said Link. "But I need to see what's inside that shrine."

"We need to see what's inside it," Zelda corrected.

Just then, there was the distant sound of thunder.

"Oh, that's just great!" said Link, shaking his head. "I swear there hasn't been a single time I came here that there hasn't been a thunderstorm. I think the shape and position of the island help to create storms."

"Do you think we can climb to the next level before it reaches us?" said Zelda as they both looked to the East where the storm was approaching.

"I'd rather not chance it," said Link. "There is a small ledge just above us, and the next level up from there is much higher where the shrine itself sits. There is no shelter on the small ledge."

Link looked around.

"I think we should wait under that overhang at the base of the cliff over there," said Link as he pointed. "In my experience, these storms pass fairly quickly at least."

They made their way to the base of the cliff under a rocky overhang and sat down alongside each other as the sound of thunder grew closer.

"The last time I was here, Mipha and I had to shelter near an abandoned Bokoblin camp one level down," said Link.

"I know it's hopeless, but I'll try to be as good company for you," teased Zelda, making Link laugh.

"You are good company, and I hope I am too," laughed Link. "Hylia knows we've been through some amazing travels together. I just never thought we would do this once again."

"I always hoped we wouldn't, but as I've told you, I was never really confident that I had succeeded as well as I could have last time," said Zelda. "My training from Mipha was understandably brief."

Just then, there was another flash of lightning, and heavy rain began falling as a crash of thunder shook the ground.

"It's a good thing we waited," said Link. "The last thing we need is to find ourselves halfway up the cliff face when a storm arrives."

Link waited while another crash of thunder interrupted them.

"How are Zelda and Astra doing?" said Link.

"Zelda has been absolutely wonderful," said Zelda. "She's like a sponge for knowledge, soaking up everything she needs to do in my absence. I have complete confidence in her. Astra wanted to come with us and feels that she should be part of our fight. I told her I felt better if she was home to help protect people there if it comes to that."

"I agree," said Link.

"How is the rest of your family doing?" Zelda asked after waiting for another round of thunder to stop.

"Midon and Link joined the fighting at the Inogo Bridge shrine," said Link. "Mila is looking out for anyone injured. I'm not sure what Lapha is doing, but I'm sure she is helping somehow."

"We both raised fine children," said Zelda as she smiled at Link.

"That we did," said Link as the rain continued to fall.

Meanwhile, at the Hyrule Castle Command Center, Princess Zelda was conferring with General Haston.

"It's more of the same, Your Highness," said Haston. "Every location reports stronger attacks and the need for reinforcements. Given the need for rest, our resources are being strained to the limit."

"I see," said Princess Zelda. "What about the safety of the villagers? Any updates?"

"We have managed to destroy the Bokoblins and Moblins threatening Lurelin Village, and some villagers have returned," said Haston. "Others prefer to wait at sea until they know what will happen."

"And who can blame them?" said Princess Zelda.

There was a pause.

"Any word from Her Majesty, Your Highness?"

"No, but I didn't expect any," said Princess Zelda. "Mother said she would not be using her Tab during the mission."

Haston looked down for a moment, then back up.

"Your Highness," said Haston.

"Yes?"

"We cannot win this," said Haston. "The trends on the battlefield are clear. Unless we find a way to stop the attacks, we will be worn out. I don't like to be the bearer of bad news, but as our leader, you need to be prepared."

"Don't lose heart, General," said Princess Zelda kindly. "I know the news has been all bad. But I believe in Hylia, that she will find a way to aid us through those of us who serve her."

"Thank you, Your Highness, it's good to hear you say so," said Haston. "And our army has not lost heart. We will fight to our last breath to protect you, your family, and the land we love."

Meanwhile, Link and Zelda sat hunched under the rock outcropping on Eventide Island, waiting for the storm to pass. The rain had begun to lighten, and the sound of thunder less frequent. It was several more minutes before the storm moved out to sea, and the rain stopped.

"Give the cliff a few minutes to dry off," said Link. "Trust me on that. You don't want to be stuck clinging to the cliff as you slip backward."

"That sounds like the voice of experience," laughed Zelda.

They waited a few more minutes until the afternoon sun was shining through scattered clouds.

"Okay," said Link. "This is a long climb, but we can pause at the small ledge above us. Just take it slowly."

"Lead the way," said Zelda. "This outfit is quite comfortable for climbing."

They made their way to the small ledge overlooking the ruins, waited a moment to catch their breath, then pushed on until they reached the top of Koholit Rock.

The shrine was just as before, seemingly not activated, dormant like so many others scattered about Hyrule. Link was the only one who could know it should not have been there, that its existence depended upon completing a task he never performed in this timeline.

"Besides the Bow of Light, do you have any weapons?" Link asked.

"I have a Sheikah dagger Impa included with the outfit," said Zelda.

"Keep it within reach just in case," said Link.

"I've always been curious to see what these shrines look like inside," said Zelda.

"Yes, I remember that very well from when you visited the Tena Ko'sah Shrine at Ancient Columns," said Link. "But I suspect this one will not be typical. Perhaps when all this is over, we can visit one together. Are you ready?"

"Yes," said Zelda quietly. "I pray for Hylia's blessing on us."

Link and Zelda stood at the entrance while Link used his Tab to activate the shrine. It glowed orange, and the doors swung open, revealing the elevator mechanism.

"So far, it behaves normally," said Link. "If we squeeze together, we should both be able to ride down at the same time."

"I would feel better that way, that we stay together," said Zelda.

Link wondered what they would encounter as they huddled close together, and he activated the elevator, transporting them down into the shrine. It was clear at once to Link that this was not the shrine he remembered.

"As I suspected, this is not how the shrine should be," said Link.

The floor was empty of enemies, but there was a large opening in the floor. Link approached carefully, Zelda beside him, and they could see a stairway leading down to a lower level.

"Let me use that proximity rune to check the area," said Link as he pulled out his Tab.

But the Tab screen was blank. His Tab no longer worked.

"Check your Tab, Zelda," said Link. "Mine's completely blank."

"Mine's not working either," said Zelda.

"Well, I guess we do this the old fashioned way," said Link as he made his way down the steps, and Zelda followed.

As was true of most shrines, the inside was lit with ancient energy, and they had no difficulty navigating the long stairway that ended in a doorway into another room. Link peered into the room from a distance, not getting too close to the doorway yet.

This room was smaller, and you could make out another door on the opposite wall. But above the doorway was a diamond-shaped mechanism that looked like a closed eye.

"I've seen something like that before when Mipha and I completed a shrine in North Hyrule," said Link as he pointed the mechanism out to Zelda. "It may fire an arrow when it senses an intruder."

"You activate it, duck back, and I'll shoot it," said Zelda.

"I can activate it and shoot it as well, using my ability to slow time," said Link.

"We are in this together, Link," said Zelda. "And I'm not helpless. Just activate it and step back."

Link did as Zelda asked, and as expected, the eye opened and fired an arrow. But Link had jumped back, and the arrow whistled harmlessly by as Zelda hit the device with an arrow, sending it plunging to the floor below.

"Nice shot," said Link.

"You know I enjoy archery," said Zelda. "Or did you lose that memory too?"

"Very funny," said Link. "The room looks safe to cross now. Let's go."

The next room was a simple puzzle, pushing a block on the floor into position to open a door on the right wall that led to another room. Once again, Link peered cautiously into it.

There were what looked like two suits of heavy armor standing alongside the far door. The armor was black and consisted of a massive sword and a huge black and silver shield. The head was covered with a black metal helm and faceplate. Otherwise, the room was empty.

"They look like some suits of armor we have at the Castle Museum," whispered Zelda as she stood beside Link at the doorway.

"I've had some experience with this kind of thing too," said Link. "I don't think our enemy is collecting armor. Those things can come alive when they sense someone nearby, like Guardians. Perhaps our stealthy outfits can protect us, but I'm still nervous. We need to get pretty close to pass them by."

They took one step into the room and stopped, all eyes on the two suits of armor. But there was no reaction. So far, so good, thought Link.

"One step at a time, slowly, and let's keep to a single file and stay to the middle," whispered Link as he took out his bow and threaded an Ice Arrow.

They took one step at a time, halting after each one to see if there was any reaction. Perhaps the stealthiness of their garments was helping. Finally, they were a strong leap away from the open doorway between the armor.

"We're close enough now," whispered Link. "You jump through the doorway before they can react. I'll be right behind you. And please don't argue. We're fortunate to have gotten so close to the doorway without detection."

Zelda nodded, tensed, and then jumped through the door. She turned, awaiting Link, but the door slammed shut, isolating her from the room she had just left. Link watched the door slam shut from the other side, as did the door behind him, and both suits of armor stirred, then spotted Link.

Link jumped back at once and froze one with an Ice Arrow. But before he could thread another arrow, the second warrior was upon him, swinging his mighty sword. Link blocked the sword with his shield, and the battle was on.

He raised his shield, and they circled each other, careful to face Link no matter which way he turned. He struck at it with his sword, but it defended itself with its shield. Then it was the warrior's turn to strike. Link parried the blow with his shield, but it sent him staggering back. This thing was strong! Link again circled the warrior, his shield raised.

They fought sword to sword, Link making little progress, neither able to hurt the other, until Link managed to get in a blow after the warrior had just missed him and his back was partly turned in Link's direction. A piece of armor fell to the ground, and Link realized its weakness was its back.

Just then, he sensed the other warrior recovering, stirring, and about to join the battle. Link rushed to the far side of the room, threaded another Ice Arrow, and froze it once again.

The battle continued as Link strove to attack his enemy from the rear while staying mindful of the second warrior. He alternated sword combat with Ice Arrows until he was able to finally finish off the first warrior with a mighty spin attack. Now he could deal with the second one without interruption.

Knowing its weakness made his battle strategy simpler, and it was not too long before Link's second adversary also disappeared in a cloud of purple, and both doors snapped open. Zelda rushed into the room.

"Link, are you all right?" said Zelda as she came to his side.

"Yes, I'm unhurt," said Link, breathing heavily. "Just give me a moment. Those two were tough foes."

"Take your time," said Zelda. "I peeked into the next room, and it seemed empty, just some cross-shaped pointed mechanisms in the corners."

"Thank Hylia, you didn't enter," said Link. "Those things are sharp as razors and snap closed when you cross between them. As soon as I catch my breath, we can go on."

"Here, drink this," said Zelda offering Link a vial of red liquid. "It will help you."

Link drank it down, and it tasted sweet. He felt revitalized now as well.

"Okay, I'm ready," said Link.

When they approached the door to the next room, Link could see the four devices, one in each corner, and an open doorway at the left side of the room. Link demonstrated the trap by sticking his foot through the doorway, then pulling back. As expected, the trap snapped shut in an instant, and woe to anyone caught in their grip. The sword-like points would skewer them.

"Oh, Hylia!" Zelda exclaimed. "They snap shut in the blink of an eye!"

"Yes, but notice it takes them some time to reset themselves," said Link. "That's the key to passing them. I will activate this one again, then while they retract, run to the middle of the room and wait for me."

Zelda nodded and stood beside Link at the doorway. Link activated the trap once more by sticking his foot across the threshold, quickly withdrawing it, and after snapping shut and slowly reopening, Zelda raced to the center of the room as Link had indicated. Link repeated the process with himself, then twice more at the far doorway. They were successfully past this room.

The doorway to the left led to another stairway downward, and they could make out some noise as if someone was humming music. It was a somber, doleful chant that repeated over and over and only grew louder as they made their way slowly down the stairway. When they reached the bottom, there was only one door, and they both peered through the doorway.

They could see a solitary seated figure, his back turned to them, looking at something that resembled a Sheikah Slate. He was dressed as a Gerudo, but larger, with red hair and a red beard, wearing a set of black armor over massive arms and chest. The hilt of what could only be a formidable-looking sword stuck out from a scabbard he wore on his back.

He suddenly must have sensed their presence, for he stopped humming.

"So, you finally found me," said Ganondorf as he turned, putting down the Sheikah Slate he had been working with. "I thought you might."

"Of course," said Link. "I followed my nose."

"Literally true, but quite rude, Link!" laughed Ganondorf. "You should show more respect. I am a king, after all, you know. But I respect you, Link, one of the very few who can offer me a challenge, allow me to flex my muscles, so to speak. But I am weary of your name. No originality."

"I like my name," said Link. "It reminds me of the many heroes who came before me and put you in your place."

"I know what you're trying to do," laughed Ganondorf. "You're trying to kindle my anger by being rude and provoke me into acting rashly. Unlike before, however, time is on my side now. Soon Hyrule will fall to my army of monsters that grow stronger by the day."

"Not for much longer they do," said Link. "It all ends here today."

"True, for both of you, it does," laughed Ganondorf. "But I know you didn't just follow your nose here, Link. You worked it all out. I knew you were a threat to my discovery here while I regenerated, recovered from my last encounter with you both. You are the only one in Hyrule, Link, who would know this shrine should not be here. I wanted to have you eliminated, but sadly my servants proved unequal to the task. Fortunately, you didn't stumble upon my hideout until it was too late. Now my monsters will overrun Hyrule, like army ants consuming everything that stands in their way."

"So you say," said Link. "Are you done talking yet? I am eager to finish this."

"Bear with me just a bit longer, both of you," said Ganondorf as he stood and strutted before them. "You should not be so eager for your deaths. By the way, what you see before you is more like the real me, not that half-formed version of me you dealt with last time. What do you think?"

"You're as foul and evil as ever to me," said Link. "It doesn't matter what form you take."

"What I expected you to say," laughed Ganondorf. "And you, Zelda, the one with the stench of goddess blood that I can smell even from here. I can't tell you how sick I am of your name too! But I am grateful that your sealing power wasn't quite up to the task last time, and I was able to return to your fine kingdom sooner than you thought. Honestly, I hadn't expected you to learn your sealing power at all after I arranged for your mother's untimely demise. I love that word, demise, by the way."

"You? You were responsible for my mother's death?" said Zelda.

"Indirectly, yes," said Ganondorf. "I wanted her out of the way while you were still a child before you could start your training and learn your power. But then that fishy Mipha stepped in to help you. I'll deal with her later, too."

"Enough talk!" said Link as he drew his sword. "Before you make any long-term plans, you will need to deal with us first."

The sword that sealed the darkness blazed white-hot with sacred energy, and its glow lit the room, for it was now in the presence of the great evil it was created to destroy. At the same time, Zelda drew her bow, the Bow of Light, and threaded a Light Arrow.

"Oh, well," said Ganondorf. "I guess that means our friendly conversation is over."

Then Ganondorf's face grew angry.

"Now you two will feel my wrath!" he shouted angrily.

Ganondorf drew himself up to full height and raised his right hand. Bolts of lightning appeared above him, and he seemed to draw from them, mold them together into a ball of electric energy.

Link had not seen this kind of attack before, and he was unprepared for it as Ganondorf flung the ball of energy at him, hitting him squarely in the chest and sending him sprawling to the ground.

Link lay dazed and in pain for the moment, and his chest burned. The feeling was like being hit with a Shock Arrow, only worse. His mouth flew open, and his world grew hazy. There was a ringing noise in his head that gradually subsided. And as his hearing began to recover, he could hear Zelda shouting his name and Ganondorf's laughter.

Link shook his head and blinked several times, his vision finally clearing in time to see Zelda shoot a Light Arrow at Ganondorf. Zelda's aim was true, but Ganondorf swatted the arrow away, and Link watched it fall harmlessly to the floor. Things were not going well! But seeing what Ganondorf did to the Light Arrow gave Link an idea.

Link stood up, sword in hand once more, and Ganondorf eyed him from across the room. Once again, Ganondorf drew down lightning he molded into a ball of destructive power and hurled it at Link. This time Link was ready and swatted it back at Ganondorf with a swipe of his sword. He expected that would do the trick, much as the deflected beam of a corrupted Guardian would damage or destroy it. So, Link was surprised when Ganondorf backhanded the ball of energy with his forearm, sending it right back Link's way. Link managed to jump aside as the ball of energy crashed into the wall behind him. And another arrow from Zelda was equally ineffective, Ganondorf easily swatting it away.

"The arrows aren't working, Link!" Zelda cried out.

After another round of laughter, Ganondorf repeated the process once more, creating a ball of concentrated electricity from lightning. This time Link was better prepared, however, and he again returned the ball of energy Gaondorf's way with a timely swipe of his sword. But then he also returned the ball of energy when Ganondorf swiped it back his way. Six times they volleyed back and forth until Ganondorf missed repelling the last return from Link, and it was his turn to freeze in place, stunned by the powerful blast he himself had created.

"Shoot now, Zelda!" cried Link.

Zelda had already threaded a Light Arrow and fired at once. In Ganondorf's momentarily stunned state, he could not swat the arrow away, and it hit him squarely in the chest. With a groan, Ganondorf collapsed to the ground, and Link ran forward, striking blow after blow upon the prone figure with the sword that seals the darkness, causing Ganondorf to groan after each blow.

Clearly, this hurt Ganondorf, but not enough yet. Ganondorf shook off his momentary daze, stood, and began his attack anew as Link put some distance between them.

"Shoot him while he's stunned," Link shouted to Zelda as he and Ganondorf once more sent a ball of energy back and forth between them. Link concentrated and was careful to swing at just the right moment. This time it took seven back and forth returns, but upon the last one, Ganondorf again stood stunned, and Zelda shot him with a Light Arrow, sending him to the ground. Link raced forward and got in as many blows with his sword as he could until Ganondorf recovered and stood before him once more.

"I can see this isn't working," said Ganondorf. "Let's settle this with sword combat, you and I."

Before Link could react, Ganondorf sent a blast of energy toward Zelda, knocking her senseless to the ground. Link wanted to come to her aid, but Ganondorf drew his sword and stepped between them. It was a massive weapon in keeping with his size and glowed as well. He was no doubt a formidable adversary. But this is what Link had trained for his whole life. He was more confident now as he stood before him with the sacred sword in his hand. And he thought he sensed some doubt in Ganondorf's eyes. The arrogance of before was gone. Still, without Zelda, they could not finish this. He could only pray she was not too severely injured.

Ganondorf and Link approached each other warily, neither wanting to make a mistake and create an opening for their opponent. But time was on Ganondorf's side, and Link needed to finish this. Link rushed forward, and the battle was on.

Ganondorf was fast and powerful, attacking and defending with more skill than Link had ever experienced. Link's advantage was his ability to perform a flurry rush, and he managed to get in several blows that way. But Ganondorf recovered from one such attack more quickly than Link expected, and slashed Link across his left upper arm, causing Link to cry out. It felt like his bone may have broken, and he winced with every movement.

"As my phantom told your daughter, yield now, and I will end your life swiftly," said Ganondorf. "Fight on, and your death will be more painful."

"You should know both my daughter and me better than to think we would ever accept that," Link said, glad for a chance to catch his breath. "We will fight you to the death if necessary as servants of Hylia."

The mention of Hylia's name seemed to anger Ganondorf, and he rushed forward, swinging his sword, forcing Link back, his shield raised the whole time. Each blow was painful, as his left arm had much less strength now. But his life depended upon protecting himself. The flurry of blows tired Ganondorf slightly, and Link rushed back swinging his own sword rapidly now. Ganondorf seemed surprised by Link's rapid recovery, and Link landed several severe blows, finally knocking Ganondorf to the ground.

Ganondorf was about to rise when suddenly he was struck with a Light Arrow and groaned, stunned.

"That was for my mother," said Zelda, holding her bow.

Link rushed forward and, with a mighty thrust, plunged the sword that seals the darkness directly into Ganondorf's heart. Ganondorf screamed out in pain, his cry echoing throughout the shrine.

"Step back, Link," shouted Zelda as Link saw her raise her right hand.

He jumped back, and then the room was suddenly filled with golden light brighter than the sun. Zelda glowed as well, as if she were a spirit, a divine creature, and Link shielded his eyes as a ball of bright gold consumed Ganondorf. He heard a last scream that faded into nothingness, and then the room was still. Ganondorf was gone.

When Link turned back, Zelda had returned to normal. She rushed to Link's side, and his left arm was limp, blood pouring from the wound. His chest was burned too. Zelda touched his arm, and he winced.

"You're hurt," said Zelda.

"So are you," said Link as he noticed a nasty wound across her shoulder that had burned through her outfit.

"Let me try to slow the blood loss," said Zelda.

Zelda tore off the rest of her damaged sleeve, and Link winced again as she wrapped it across the wound.

"But we're alive, and we did it, Link. Hyrule is saved," said Zelda, and they embraced, Link using his right arm to hold her.

They held each other for a moment, tears welling up in both their eyes, savoring the moment of victory.

"Let's get out of here," said Zelda finally. "I think I've seen enough of shrines for now."

"They're not usually like this," said Link.

They put their arms around each other and reversed their passage through the shrine, finally collapsing at the entrance. It was nighttime now and pouring rain.

"Wouldn't you know," said Link. "We will have to wait here."

They sat at the entrance in the darkness and watched as the rain poured down, mixed in with the occasional streak of lightning. Zelda pulled out her Tab, but it was not working.

"I think our Tabs are permanently ruined," said Zelda, putting it away.

"Wait! Did you see that?" said Link after a flash of lightning lit up the hillside, and he tensed. "Get your dagger ready."

Before either could react, two Lizalfos rushed forward, weapons in hand. Link pushed Zelda behind him with his right hand. Usually he would have raised his shield now to defend himself, but his left arm was numb and useless. He prepared to meet his end as he saw the flash of a blade.

But just then, the two Lizalfos groaned and fell to the ground, disappearing in a cloud of purple smoke. Two Sheikah emerged from hiding behind a small tree. Link squinted and then recognized them.

"Kalan and Palan!" Link cried.

"Impa sent us," said Kalan. "Just in case."

"And thank Hylia she did," said Link. "Here, step inside the entrance out of the rain."

The four of them squeezed into the shrine entranceway.

"Can we use your Tabs," said Zelda. "Ours are ruined."

"Of course, Your Majesty," said Kalan as he handed her his Tab and Palan gave Link his.

Link called Mipha at once.

"Palan?" said Mipha as she answered. "Is there some news of Link?"

"It's me, sweetheart," said Link. "We did it!"

"Oh, thank Nayru!" said Mipha with a sigh of relief. "When I saw a call from Palan on my Tab, my heart was in my throat, fearing there was bad news."

"My left arm is broken, and both Zelda and I suffered burns, but otherwise we're fine," said Link.

"Wait there, I will come heal you and take you and Zelda home," said Mipha.

Meanwhile, Zelda was speaking to Princess Zelda, who was equally surprised to be getting a call from Kalan.

"Mother? You're all right?" said Princess Zelda.

"Yes, just a burn," said Zelda. "We did it! How are things there?"

"Enemies have stopped emerging from shrines," said Princess Zelda. "Only those already outside the shrines remain alive, and our army is disposing of them. The tide of battle has turned for the good. Hurry home, Mother!"

"I will be home as soon as I can," said Zelda. "And give my love to Astra."

Zelda handed the Tab back to Kalan.

"Shall I summon a boat to take you and Link home Your Majesty?" said Kalan.

"Mipha said she was on her way," said Link. "I at least will wait for her here."

"I will stay with Link," said Zelda. "I want to share this special moment with him as long as I can."

Link and Zelda smiled at each other, and then Link winced as he moved his left arm.

"I'll need some help to get down from the peak once it's daylight," said Link.

"I will paraglide down with you," said Palan. "Just hold onto me with your good arm. It's almost dawn."

It was less than an hour later when the storm ended, and the sun rose. The four of them made their way down to the beach and took a moment to relax.

Just then, the sea stirred, and birds circled over the disturbance, eager to snatch up any fish that were brought to the surface. With an enormous wave, Divine Beast Vah Ruta surfaced, water pouring off her, and she let out a mighty bellow. A moment later, two Zoras could be seen swimming to shore. It was Mipha and Mila.

"Congratulations!" Mipha and Mila both shouted, and Zelda embraced them both.

Then Mipha rushed to Link, and they embraced carefully.

"For once, I'll heal your father," said Mipha to Mila. "You please tend to Her Majesty."

"If I may, Your Majesty?" said Mila to Zelda, who accepted her offer of help at once.

"When you said you would come, I didn't expect you to bring Ruta," said Link as Mipha first healed the burn on his chest, and then began healing his arm.

"She wanted to share in the excitement of victory," said Mipha.

"I'm glad," said Link as he watched Mipha's hand glow and hover over his wound.

"You know, I was thinking," said Mipha as she continued to heal his injury. "This reminds me of the time we first met. You were such a reckless child, always getting yourself hurt at every turn. Every time, I would heal you. Just as I'm doing right now."

Link looked up at her and smiled.

"If I remember, you said that once before," said Link.

"Just testing your memory, sweetheart," said Mipha. "It seems fine this time."

Then they both laughed and shared a kiss, Link's arm fully healed now.

"I love you so much! Let's go home and spend some time together," said Link.

"I couldn't have said it better myself," said Mipha as they held each other close and kissed once more.