Hyrule's Heroes Book 4: Seron's Revenge

by Wynn of Hyrule

Seron makes his return, and begins plotting to finish Wynn and his friends. However, he has his own problems to deal with, and this time he has met his match, in more ways than one. Please R&R.

4. Default Chapter Title

CHAPTER 4

Seron arrogantly waved to the heroes as he walked by. "See you later, losers!" he taunted.

Wynn glared at him. His fists clenched. He was starting to rethink this whole 'redeem Seron' idea…

"We have to follow him! He knows where the next pendant is!" Shezarah yelled.

Wynn nodded, leading the way. They exited the fountain, stepping out into the dimming light of the day. By the time they left the Fairy Fountain, it would be night. Wynn knew it wouldn't be easy climbing down the mountain at night, but they couldn't let Seron have a head start on the next pendant.

"Where did he go?" Nerah asked, looking around.

"Hmm…I don't know," Wynn said. He started towards the edge of the cliff they had climbed earlier.

"He couldn't have gone far. I mean…Yikes!" Tane said, backpedaling, but tripped over his own feet and falling to the ground. Wynn whirled. There stood the thing that had frightened Tane. Wynn looked up…and up…and up.

"Hiya, little buddy!" came the deep rumbling voice of Biggoron.

"Hey, you big lug! You nearly gave me a heart attack!" Wynn yelled at Biggoron, but the humor in his voice dulled the edge of his words.

Biggoron was as his name stated. He was the biggest Goron by far; while most Gorons came up to a man's neck, Biggoron was many times taller than a man, at least five or six, probably more. It was hard to estimate, as it was hard to see all of Biggoron without being far down the mountain from him. He lived on the peak of Death Mountain, as he could not fit in Goron City with the rest of his fellow Gorons.

"Heh. Sorry, pal," Biggoron said, rubbing the back of his head.

"Sorry we don't have much time to stay and chat, but we are after someone. Have you seen anyone come by here? My height, dark, with a big cape and a monster that's about as stupid as him?"

Biggoron laughed, which seemed to shake the mountain. "Yeah, I saw him. I think I scared them both nearly to death, by the way they screamed!"

"Which way did he go?" Jier asked.

"Into the volcano, there." He pointed to a large cavern near the entrance of the Fairy Fountain.

Wynn nodded thanks to him. "I've got to go. I will see you again someday soon. Until then, farewell." He turned to his friends. "Let's get him."

His friends heard the dark tone in his voice, and nodded. They all ran for the cavern, and inside the volcano once again. Wynn was first inside, ignoring the heat as he dashed inside. The others followed, except Nerah, who lagged behind. She groaned as she felt the strength be sapped from her by the heat. She was used to cool, soothing water, not the heat of this inferno! Wynn and the others would have to go it without her.

Wynn dashed in the direction he guessed Seron had gone. He climbed down a ladder, then halted at the edge of a cliff. He grimaced. There, just across a short ravine, was a cavern that looked recently opened. Wynn looked down. Far below was the molten lava, and a sure death.

Wynn clenched his fists. Using his magic would drain him, but he had no choice. He raised his arms, channeling his powers. As the orbs circled closer and closer, he lowered his arms. Just before they collided, he clenched his fists, leaving his index fingers pointing across the ravine at the other cliff. The beam of light shot forth, making a bridge across.

"Hurry!" Wynn said, gritting his teeth. Tane stepped up to the bridge, tapping it experimentally with his toe, then dashed across. Jier and Shezarah followed, with Wynn close behind. The bridge disappeared behind them. The other three waited as Wynn stopped, turning. "Where's Nerah?

Jier looked towards the entrance of the cave. "I think she stayed outside."

Shezarah nodded. "The heat was probably too much for her. She was roasting while you were battling Seron earlier."

Wynn stood. "Well, let's get the next talisman, and then we can pick Nerah up on our way out." He pointed to the cavern. "After we've beat Seron."

Together, the four heroes entered the tunnel, coming to a stop inside the fountain. This fountain was structurally identical to the last, and the Great Fairy that hovered over the fountain was very similar to the previous one.

The Great Fairy noted them with a smile, looking up from Seron, who she had been conversing with. "Welcome, heroes, to the Fountain of the Great Fairy of Wisdom. Now, we may begin the test, to see who may earn the Pendant of Wisdom."

Seron looked angrily to Wynn. "Give it up, fool!" he shouted.

Wynn drew his sword. "Bring it on, pal!"

The Fairy smirked down at them. "Calm. You shall not have your task tonight. When dawn comes, you may begin your trial, no earlier."

Shezarah gripped her scimitar/spear warily. "And what is this task?"

The Great Fairy's mischievous smile grew. "A riddle. You must find three keys to unlock a hidden lock. Once unlocked, you shall gain the Pendant of Wisdom."

Seron frowned at the fairy. "Why can't we find them tonight?"

She laughed. "It is late, and I do not wish for any to gain an unfair advantage. The race begins at dawn, no earlier."

All nodded. "Here is your riddle. Figure it out tonight, and you shall be ready for the morning light to come."

A canyon deep, with a river running through.

An island hollow, in a sea of blue.

A well empty, where evil once grew.

A grave wide, with the pendant of azure hue.

She smiled at the more than slightly confused and befuddled look on their faces. "Now, rest. Your trials begin tomorrow, and you shall need your strength. Farewell, Hyrule's hope!"

The five shielded their eyes as a flash made the world around them disappear. When the light dimmed again, Wynn, Jier, Tane, Nerah, and Shezarah were standing in a familiar house. Nerah gasped. "How did I get here? One minute, I was outside, the next…" She looked around, seeing the others.

Before she could go on, Fami rushed up to the five. "Did you get it? What happened? Where's Seron?"

Wynn clenched his fists, eyes narrowing. He turned his back.

Tane sighed. "He won the first Pendant. We are leaving in the morning to get the second one."

"How did he…?"

Jier cleared his throat. "He…beat Wynn in a fight for it."

Fami's face fell, and she went to Wynn. She whispered something into his ear, but he didn't relax. She stepped in front of him, and seemed to ask him something. Wynn tensed, and answered sharply. She kissed Wynn lightly and walked away, but he didn't relax. When she got back to the others, she slowly shook her head.

Shezarah grimaced. "He cheated!"

Tane nodded. "Getting his pesky Tekiton to attack us, distracting Wynn, then hit Wynn while he wasn't looking."

Fami scowled. "He did?" Her voice was a growl.

Jier nodded. "He took the Pendant of Power."

"We'll get it back!" Nerah assured the others. She cracked her knuckles. "If we have to kill Seron to get it."

The others nodded. They would never give up. Seron had yet to face them as a team. It may be the last thing he ever would.

******

It was a very little known fact that Great Fairies had a rather wicked sense of humor. This could be an annoyance to some, and often lethal to others. It was a close call as to which of these Seron would fit in.

Seron came into existence after the Great Fairy's last words in a house. At first, he was glad he wasn't with Wynn and the others. His opinion soon changed as he recognized his surroundings. He groaned quietly, and started for the door.

"Oh, no you don't!" screamed Kiara, stepping to block the door. Seron slumped as the Tekiton moved to hug her. As she was wrapped up by the monster's frenzied attack/show of affection, Seron moved past her, at the door. His hand was grasping desperately for the knob when her foot came down on his cape, sending him sprawling forward. His eyes widened as he saw the door coming at his face.

Several minutes later, when Seron came to, he was once again looking into the eyes of Kiara. She was leaning over him, eyes narrowed menacingly. He cringed, realizing his mistake. He knew he was trapped, and there was no way out of this one. Oddly, he was more afraid of her than he had ever been of Wynn.

"You."

Seron gulped. He desperately tried to call up his cocky image, but found he couldn't while she was holding him down, trapping both him and his bragging. He tried to look away, but was paralyzed, staring into her threatening eyes.

"Why did you leave? How did you get in here without me noticing? You shouldn't have been out, injured as much as you were!"

Seron glared back, his attempts finally working. "I'm fine. And why I left and how I got here are none of your business!"

Kiara snarled at him. "I made it my business!"

"Oh yeah?"

The two sat there, locked in a battle of wills. Finally, Seron jerked her hand away, and rolled to the side. Kiara moved to hold him, but he was going the other way. He moved for one of the beds. "I shall be sleeping here," he declared, throwing off his cape.

Kiara watched through slitted eyes as Seron took off his armor. "A pity. It looks like I'll have to wash my cousin's sheets again, to rid them of your presence."

Seron froze. Her cousin! He gritted his teeth, knowing things had gone from bad to really, really bad. "Will he be needing this bed?" Seron asked, his voice cold.

Kiara put her hands on her hips. "He's gone to Hyrule Marketplace to fetch some more supplies from my father. They used up most of the medicine we had after that insane wizard Seron attacked. He won't be back till tomorrow."

Seron had to force himself not to flinch when she said his true name. "Very well." And without another word, Seron fell onto the bed, his back turned to Kiara.

Kiara sniffed loudly, turning away and moving to the other end of the house. While she had her back turned, the Tekiton walked up to Seron and smacked him on the back of his head.

"Hey!" Seron yelped, rolling to face his monster, shock in his eyes. It stood over him, frail arms crossed. Its single eye was narrowed. It pointed to him, chirping condescendingly. Seron frowned, figuring out what it had said. When it finally came to him, his eyes widened.

"Never! Not on my life! I would never stoop so low!"

The Tekiton looked at him, eye narrowed. It pointed to Kiara, then looked back to Seron. It again crossed its arms, looking to him expectantly.

Seron snarled at it. "And what're you going to do if I don't?"

It raised a claw. It slowly, as if trying to figure it out, made a 'S' shape in the air. Then, it made an 'E'. Then, a 'R'. Next, an 'O'…

Seron gaped at it, shocked. "You wouldn't!" he hissed.

The Tekiton smugly made a sweep with its arm, gesturing to Kiara.

Seron stood hesitantly, looked pleadingly to the Tekiton, who shook its head, and started forward. He came to a stop behind Kiara, and cleared his throat. She paid him no attention. He softly said her name, and she whirled.

"What do YOU want?"

Seron slumped. "I'm sorry," he mumbled.

Confusion came to Kiara's eyes. "What?" she demanded.

Seron gritted his teeth. "I apologize for yelling at you earlier. I was…tired."

"Oh, so, you do have a humble bone in your body? I'm impressed."

Seron clenched a gloved hand. "I did not mean to insult you. I shall leave, if you wish."

She gave him a genuine smile. "That's not necessary," she said, almost tenderly. "You can stay." Seeing Seron relax, she continued. "I'm sorry, too, for being so cold. I was just a little upset over you disappearing this morning."

Seron nodded, looking ashamed. "There was something I had to do, and I didn't want to make you worry."

She playfully cuffed him on the shoulder, laughing. "You didn't do a good job."

Seron laughed as well. "I'm not used to being worried about."

Kiara looked into his eyes. "Sertane…Where did you come from? Who were your parents? Why did Seron attack you?"

Seron grimaced at the use of his fake name. "Just call me Ser. And…my past is a tale for another night. And, Seron…let's say I was in the wrong place at the wrong time."

Kiara put a hand on his shoulder. She could sense something was wrong, but decided to leave it alone. "O.K., Ser. What now?"

Seron glanced down. "I…" he paused, loathing the taste of the words in his mouth, "I shall have to leave at dawn once again."

Kiara shook her head no. "You're still hurt, whether you admit it or not."

Seron smiled. "Actually, I'm completely healed."

Kiara looked at him, puzzled. He went on. "Today, I found someone with strong enough magic to heal me."

"Then, you don't need to leave?"

"No…there is something I must do. I shall return, I promise. Not tomorrow, but the next night."

Kiara nodded. "Very well then." Seron yawned, covering his mouth. She grinned. "Tired?"

Seron nodded. "Very. I suppose I shall retire. Goodnight…"

Kiara gave him a nearly formal nod. "Rest well."

Seron walked over to the bed. There sat the Tekiton, a triumphant expression on his face. Seron chuckled, patting it on the back. It chirped happily, then curled up at the foot of the bed. "Good night," Seron said, getting into bed. Within moments, he was asleep.

Kiara stared at him for a while. She had actually seen who he really was! He had been nice, and had apologized! He had even been polite to his monster!

A dark cloud passed over her emotions. He was hiding something, she knew. But, he would tell her in time. She trusted him.

A big mistake.

******

Wynn woke up with a start. Something was wrong! He jumped up, searching for the cause of his alarm. All was silent, and the house was completely dark, with only the light of the moon showing through. He could see nothing but the sleeping forms of his friends.

He sat back on his bed, trying to calm himself. He had just had a dream, oddly real and unsettling. He struggled to recall it, but nothing could come. He wished he could figure out what was wrong…

Nearby, a form watched him from the safety of the shadows. She resisted the urge to scream in frustration as she leaped out a window out of Wynn's view. She sheathed the dagger she had intended to use on the heroes, and made her way toward where her partner was waiting.

Wynn fell back onto the bed, trying to get his heart to slow. Slowly, the vision was coming back to him. He closed his eyes, willing it to return.

Near him stood a Zora girl, shouting something in defiance. Wynn saw, in front of them, was a massive figure seemingly made of pure shadow, and he could feel waves of evil emanating from it. As Wynn watched, the figure raised a clawed hand, and it shot at the girl, passing through her. She screamed, and fell. Wynn ran to her, and said something, but he couldn't hear his own words. She gasped something out, and was still.

Wynn glared at the shadowed figure, which laughed in return. It seemed to offer Wynn a challenge. Wynn started to charge his magic, ready to destroy the fiend.

But, before he could, a taloned hand knocked him aside. He flinched as it lowered to finish him.

It never got the chance. Seron leaped in front of it, sword at ready. Wynn yelled something as the villain faced him, hatred burning in his eyes…

******

"Wynn! Wynn, wake up!"

"Hunh?"

Wynn opened his eyes. It was still dark outside, with not a hint of light. Wynn was surrounded by his five friends, all ready for action. Rubbing his eyes, he sat up.

"It's almost dawn," Tane said, hefting his ax. "We better go if we want to catch Seron."

Wynn nodded, standing. A cold gleam came into his eyes. "Well, it's time we taught Seron a lesson. Let's go."

The others nodded. Wynn got ready, and the group went out the door just as the first lights of day began to shine. They paused, uncertain as to their destination. Tane scratched his head, thinking of the Fairy's words.

Jier coughed. "What were the clues again?"

Wynn grimaced. "Something about a valley and a river…"

"Gerudo Valley!" interrupted Shezarah.

"Yeah! Good job, Shezarah!" Fami exclaimed.

"Wow, I was wrong," smirked Tane.

Shezarah looked at him warily. "What do you mean?"

He laughed. "Looks like a Gerudo's attitude doesn't block out their brain!"

Shezarah snorted. "I wish I could say the same for your ego!"

Wynn laughed at the two, and then turned to Fami. Before he could even start, she cut him off. "Oh, no! I'm coming this time! I'm fine!"

Wynn looked at her, concern in his eyes. "Are you sure?" he asked hesitantly.

She smiled, then hugged him. "I'll be fine."

"Can we skip the mushy stuff? Seron will be ahead of us if we don't hurry!" Nerah protested.

Fami glared at her. "Spoil-sport."

"Brat."

"Over-grown sardine."

"So, how's the weather down there?"

Jier stepped between the two. "Enough!"

They sighed, and then nodded. Wynn led the group onward, through the gates of Kakariko, and into Hyrule Field.

They were prepared for a fight. And they got one. A fight for their lives.

******

As the dawn came, Seron opened his eyes to see Kiara sleeping in a chair next to him. He smiled, watching her chest rise and fall as she breathed steadily in sleep. He rose quietly, trying not to disturb her sleep.

Confused and worried, he looked to her bed. He couldn't control his laugh as he saw the Tekiton there, all tangled up in the sheet. His laugh startled Kiara, who woke up. He cringed as he realized his mistake, and stuttered out an apology.

She yawned, and then gave him a drowsy smile. "Don' worry, I wanted ta tell ya 'bye'," she slurred, more than half-asleep. Seron smiled back, then began to put on his armor. Kiara watched him, willing herself to wake up. By the time Seron was finished and had awoken the Tekiton, she was fully conscious.

Seron turned to give her a farewell, but, much to his immense surprise, she tackled him in a hug. He blushed as she held him, and also to his surprise, he returned the embrace. Finally, she let go of him, looking up to him with expectant, hopeful eyes.

"Tomorrow night! You promised!" she reminded him.

Seron chuckled. He couldn't believe his next action. He lifted the Pendant of Power off his neck, and placed it on hers. "On this, one of my most prized possessions, I swear I shall return."

Kiara's mouth opened. She looked at the red talisman, an amazed look on her face. She looked back up to him, beaming. Seron gasped as she kissed him.

To the pair, it seemed hours were spent in that moment. The Tekiton watched them, a single tear blossoming from its eye. Finally, the two broke the kiss, staring into each other's eyes. Both smiled, pure smiles, none of their previous conflict remaining in those expressions.

Seron blindly groped for the doorknob, not willing to tear his eyes from Kiara's. To his dismay, he found it. Without another word, he turned, and strolled out, the Tekiton at his heels. Kiara watched them go, the walked back inside, a sigh of bliss escaping her lips.

Seron jauntily whistled as he walked through Kakariko, a bounce to his step that didn't go unnoticed by his companion. He was happier than he had been in ages! He laughed out loud. He knew the perfect way to celebrate! He clenched his fists. By spilling the blood of his foes, starting with Wynn, son of Baro!

And he knew just the way to do it!

******

Wynn smiled as he saw Gerudo's Valley come into view. They had finally reached their destination after nearly a day's hike, and he was dead tired. The path through Hyrule Field had been long, and they were hoping that Seron wouldn't attack with them in such a tired state, but realized the futility of such a wish.

Wynn whistled as he looked down into the valley. The chasm was thin, but extremely deep. He could almost make out a small niche cut into the side of the valley wall far below, near the raging river that had created the valley.

"That's pretty deep," Wynn stated, knowing it to be an understatement.

"You try falling in!" Tane said, remembering his 'death' before their last battle with Ganon.

"No thanks," Wynn said.

"So, how do you intend to get down there? Unless one of us can sprout wings, there's no way! That's a solid cliff face!" Nerah informed the others.

"I know a way!" Fami piped up. "With my vines, Wynn can rappel down there!"

"Wow. A halfway decent idea. I'm rubbing off on you!" Nerah smirked.

Wynn held up a hand to ward off any more verbal sparring. "I'll do it, but where would this 'key' be?"

"There is a small cove on the other side, which was used by the Gerudos as a hideout for stolen treasure long ago. Don't ask how they got down there, I don't know."

Wynn smiled. "Great job, Shezarah. Fami, I'll cross over, and you lower me down using your vines. The rest of you, stay up here and guard against any attacks; I'll be helpless."

The other five nodded. Wynn ran across the bridge to the other side, then paused at the other side. Wynn smiled as the others waved good luck to him, and Fami blew him a kiss. Wynn nodded, then a vine sprouted from the ground, and wrapped around Wynn's waist. With a final wave, Wynn began his descent into the valley.

It was not an easy climb. Wynn forced himself not to look down as the wind buffeted him, sometimes slamming him into the wall. The going was slow, and uncertain. Wynn just hoped that the key was indeed down there, and this served their purpose.

He was halfway down when disaster struck. The others had grouped around the cliff's edge, watching as Wynn's figure slowly fell deeper into the chasm. Suddenly, they sensed another presence, a dark form behind them. They each whirled, weapons at ready in an instant.

A short distance away stood Seron, cape billowing in the wind. The Tekiton stood ready next to him, sword/knife/joke in hand. There was a cold glint in the villain's eyes, one that spoke of triumph. However, there was a casualness to his stance, a satisfied smirk on his face that wasn't just of evil, oddly. For some reason, he seemed less threatening to the five heroes.

However, the crowd of monsters behind him didn't share the same diminished threat. The adventurers knew them to be Lizalfos, a whole mob of the reptilian bipeds. Each clutched a thin sword a hundred times more threatening than the Tekiton's pitiful excuse for a weapon. They were giant lizards, with a frill running down the backs of their necks. Each wore light armor, and small fangs jutted from their maws.

"Well, now. It seems you're trespassing on what is now MY land. Leave now, and I won't hurt you," Seron gloated.

Tane easily twirled his ax. "Want to make us?"

The villain laughed. "That was my intent. Perhaps my friends," he gestured with the gloved hand to the Lizalfos, "can change your minds. Or kill you, it doesn't really matter."

Fami narrowed her eyes. "I won't let you hurt Wynn."

Seron sneered at her coldly, no hint of hesitation in his dark eyes. "I'm afraid you can't stop me. If you try, you die."

Fami was taken aback. She hadn't expected that. Seron usually tried to capture her, to win her over, to steal her heart from Wynn. Now, he didn't seem to care! What had changed?

Seron stepped forward. "I believe these shall be enough to handle you weaklings. Now, I believe Wynn requires some 'help'. I think I'll provide it! Help to his grave!"

Shezarah stepped in front of him. "How do you plan that, eh? Do you intend to fly, apprentice?"

She dived to the side as a bolt of his dark lightning narrowly missed her. "Yes."

So stunned was she, that she wasn't able to move as Seron dashed past her, straight to the edge of the cliff. He jumped off feet-first, hurtling towards the river far below.

Shezarah was so shocked by the apprentice's insane actions that she didn't notice the Lizalfos leaping at her. She whirled, trying to bring her weapons to bear, but was too late. She stared as the blade flew at her, paralyzed.

It never reached her. It slammed into the wooden handle of Tane's ax as the hero leaped in front of her, catching the attack. He caught the monster with a kick, sending it sprawling away.

"For Wynn!" he yelled, dashing at the crowd, his ax flying in wide deadly arcs.

The battle was soon joined. Shezarah leaped and spun, her scimitar/spear flashing as it disarmed, dismembered, and decapitated several of the monsters. Fami waved a hand, using her vines her toss the monsters off the cliff.

Tane was pressed back by the flood of monsters. He stopped at the edge, eyes narrowed as a monster approached. It leapt at him, but he dodged, rolling under it and sending it flying off the precipice with a boot. He flinched in sympathy, remembering his own plummet.

Nerah worked her way behind the monsters, then used her water magic to blast them off the side with immense geysers. Clumps of the creatures were killed at once. Others tried to attack her, but Jier pounced, swiftly killing one, then lithely moving to the next, his body in constant motion.

Meanwhile, Wynn had his own problems. He had not quite reached the bottom yet, but it seemed Seron was rather anxious to help him get there faster. Much faster. Wynn had been more than a little surprised to see Seron falling towards him. He was even more shocked to see the dark wizard stop in mid-air, at the same height as Wynn.

Seron sneered at him, floating impossibly, as he pointed his gauntleted hand at Wynn. "It's a long way down. I'll enjoy hearing you scream the whole way!"

Wynn cried out as a bolt of dark lightning severed the thin vine holding him aloft. He flailed his arms as he plummeted downward. Fortunately for him, he had nearly made it to the bottom. His short fall ended with a splash, the collision with the water knocking his wind from him. He desperately swung his arms, trying to find the platform before the swift current swept him on downstream. After what seemed ages, Wynn's hand smacked against rock, and held.

The hero pulled himself on to solid ground, his chest heaving as he gasped for breath. He wiped a drenched hand across his eyes, trying to free his eyes from water. As his vision cleared, he could see a small box near him. He stood slowly, casting a quick glance behind him. Not seeing his foe, He pointed one hand at the box, calling on his magic reserves. The orbs of light appeared, much smaller than usual, circling his one hand faster and faster, till they combined. With a flash, a small, thin beam of light shot from his hand, slamming into the box. The box exploded, sending splinters flying in all directions.

Wynn shielded his face with his arm, feeling sharp pieces of wood enter but none passed through his armor. He dropped his arm, looking to the place where the box had been. Now, there was merely rubble, and the item he had been searching for. The key was golden, beautiful and had the end made of a glowing green crystal. It was obviously magic, since it was floating knee-high in the air.

Wynn couldn't help smiling as he grasped the key. Seron hadn't beaten him, this time!

"Well, Wynn, I would suggest handing that over. Otherwise, I'll have to kill you slowly, instead of fast," Seron gloated, floating above the waters a short distance away.

Wynn, ignoring the threat, looked at the wizard. "Since when can you fly?" He slipped the key into the pouch at his side, securing it safely.

Seron chuckled, puffing up. "I am more powerful than you think!"

"And more egotistical than you should be."

Seron snarled at him. "Shut up!"

Wynn laughed. "Make me."

Seron raised his hand, lightning flying forth. Wynn couldn't move as it blasted in all directions around him, as he realized Seron was trying to intimidate him.

"Had enough?"

Wynn stared coldly at him. "Yeah. Enough of your mouth!"

He ran at Seron. The wizard was shocked, moving back, but was too slow. Wynn took a leap from the platform, lowering his head. Seron howled in anger as Wynn drove his shoulder into the apprentice's gut, sending both into the water.

Even as the current began whisking the two downstream, the two still fought. Seron laced his hands together and brought them down on Wynn's head. Wynn responded with a grunt, and slammed his knee into Seron's chest. The wizard doubled, and Wynn brought his fist up in a viscous punch that snapped Seron's head back.

Seron fell away from Wynn, the last punch having driven the thoughts from his mind. Wynn smiled, then pushed up to gasp for breath. He looked around for a way to escape the raging river.

He didn't see the rock he was zooming towards.

Wynn joined Seron in his slumber. The river stole both unconscious men away. They left their friends and enemies behind, and were gone.

******

Fami smiled darkly as the last of the Lizalfos fell to Shezarah's blade. Now, there was only one last pest to take care of. She walked towards the monster, threat in her eyes.

"Chirp?" The Tekiton looked at her, then started backing away, shielding itself with its hands. She came ever onwards, murder in her eyes. It stopped at the edge of the cliff, its eye widening as it looked down into the chasm. It squeaked miserably, and looked at the furious girl.

A vine sprouted, leaping at the Tekiton and binding it. It shrieked as the vine held it over the abyss. Fami sneered as she walked up to it. "Stupid boot-licking monster!"

The Tekiton didn't hear her harsh words. Its attention was elsewhere. Hanging over the edge of the cliff, its eye widened as it saw two forms being washed down the river. Its shrill shriek told of its shock.

Fami looked in the direction the Tekiton was staring. What the…? No! She screamed as she watched Wynn and Seron disappear. Her breath left her as she fell to her knees.

The others ran up to her, wondering what was wrong. They stopped nearby, hearing her sobs. Tane stepped to the edge of the cliff, looking down. His head lowered, and he turned to the others.

"We are going to Lake Hylia," he said grimly. "That's where he'll wash up, whether he's dead or alive. Seron, too."

Fami looked up at those words, her face tear-streaked. "And if Seron's still alive, we'll fix that. He'll never hurt anyone ever again!"

The others shared a look, noticing the dark tone in her vengeful words. They turned, and began on the path that would lead them to Lake Hylia, leaving behind them the corpses of the monsters. One way or another, they would find Wynn and Seron. They wouldn't give up hope.

******

Wynn slowly opened his eyes, groaning and forcing a water-weighted arm across them to free them of the water impairing his vision. He let the arm rest there, shielding his eyes from the glaring sunlight. He fought to wake up, clearing his mental fog.

With tremendous effort, he finally sat up. He looked around through half-lidded eyes, appraising his surroundings. Contrary to his belief, he was not dead, or at least yet. He had washed up on the shores of Lake Hylia, near the old lab. He felt the reassuring weight of his sword, and was relieved he hadn't lost it. His chained mace was still at his side, and the key as well. He stood, looking for someone, anyone.

He found what he was looking for. A short distance away was an unconscious young man, his soaked black cape laying in a pile on him, his black hair tousled. Wynn drew his Biggoron Sword, and walked to the man. The tip of the blade pointed at the fallen man's neck, as Wynn raised it for the finishing blow. He held the sword high, ready to finish his opponent. Then, a look of concern, embarrassment, and fear crossed his face. He lowered his sword, and returned it to his sheath. He walked away, leaving the sleeping Seron behind.

His gaze swept across the still blue waters of the lake, which seemed to stretch an uncrossable distance. He paused as he saw something, and remembered the Fairy's words. Wynn laughed, taking off towards the bridge that lead to the two islands that jutted from the lake's floor. Key two was his, and there was no stopping him!

******

Seron groaned as he pushed himself up on one arm. He coughed up what seemed to be a gallon of water, and his eyes narrowed. Curse Wynn! He would be dead before the sun set, Seron swore. Wynn's blood would stain Seron's sword!

Seron then realized two things: one, he didn't have a sword, and two, Wynn was running across the great bridges leading over the lake. Seron's fist clenched. You can run, but you can't hide!

Seron rose into the air, taking flight over the water. It cost him power, but he would catch up with Wynn in time to stop him. The hero had reached the first island, the smaller of the two. Seron swept the small platform with his eyes. It was bare, except for an oddly placed lone gravestone.

Wynn had started onto the second bridge, leading to the larger island, when Seron attacked. Wynn yelled in anger as a lightning bolt blasted the bridge in front of him, destroying it. He barely leapt back to the safety of the island before it hit the water. Wynn glared at Seron, who merely laughed and flew on towards the other island.

Wynn gritted his teeth. Seron wouldn't win! He charged his magic, the twin orbs of light circling his fist. He watched as Seron neared the island. He released his power, sending a fist-wide beam of light at the wizard.

Seron narrowly dodged the beam, and flew backwards over the island as he blasted back at Wynn. He didn't dodge the thick limb Wynn's blast had clipped from the tree, which sent him tumbling to the ground. He grumbled loudly, forcing the limb off of him.

Seron smiled, looking around the larger island, one that was home to the Water Temple, with the entrance far below the waters. The key had to be somewhere...Seron turned back, looking for Wynn. Time to finish the trapped hero first, then...

Seron's eyes widened, and his jaw dropped. He desperately looked around, searching for the hero. It was in vain. Wynn was gone!

******

Wynn looked around in the small cave he had found himself in. Seron's return fire had obliterated the gravestone behind him, the shock wave had nearly sending him over the edge. Wynn had noticed after the smoke cleared that the monument had hidden a hole just wide enough for him to fit into. His instincts had told him that this was where the second key was hidden.

His instincts had been right. Floating right in front of him in the small cave was the second key. The end glowed a bright blue, casting its light throughout the small cavern. Wynn stood there, admiring its beauty. He then remembered his job, and grabbed the floating key.

Wynn sighed, looking skyward. He had fallen a short distance into the cave, and there was no way to get back out. He smiled as a plan came to him.

He raised his arms, feeling his magic build. The globes of light circled his raised hands, coming closer and faster as they moved down his arms. Once they reached his chest, they slammed into him. Wynn gasped, feeling power surge through him. He began to glow dimly, his body shedding light.

Wynn positioned himself below the hole leading outside. Any second now...

A shadow fell over the opening, blocking the sunlight. Wynn grinned cunningly, then leaped straight upwards. His strength boosted by the magic he had absorbed, he soared past Seron. As he passed his for, he brought his knee up, cracking it against Seron's jaw. The wizard, having lost his concentration, collapsed to the cavern floor with a thud.

Wynn raced across the bridge back to the land, slipping the key into his pouch. His magic-increased strength sent him speeding across the bridge, but he wasn't fast enough. A blast of lightning caught him, sending him down.

Wynn rolled over watching as Seron prepared to blast him again. His earlier charge meant he didn't have enough energy to defend himself, let alone attack back. Wynn grimaced as Seron laughed, aiming the killing blow.

He never got the chance. A wave rose over the bridge, slamming into him. He screamed in rage, looking past Wynn. Wynn, too, turned. At the end of the bridge stood Fami, Nerah, and Jier, the girls concentrating on their magic. Tane and Shezarah were rushing towards Wynn, determined to get him out of harm's way.

Seron blasted at Fami and Nerah, and narrowly missed. He recharged, but vines shot out from the island and violently whipped across his back as a waterspout slammed into his face. Even from the great distance away from the wizard, Wynn could hear the fiend's roar of fury.

Seron called forth on his magic, forming an immense blast he intended to eliminate the six heroes with. To his dismay and anger, a geyser several times wider than he burst upwards, encasing him in a wall of water. When the spout fell back down into the lake, Seron was gone.

"Wynn!" shouted Fami, racing forwards and gripping the hero tightly. Wynn gasped as she squeezed the air out of him. He chuckled, putting an arm around the girl as he climbed to his feet.

"I'm fine, Fami. That blast just knocked me down," Wynn assured her, giving her a smile.

"Yeah, well, if we hadn't gotten here right then, Seron would have done a lot more damage!" Nerah said darkly.

Wynn's eyes narrowed as he nodded, looking across the waters of the lake. There was no sign of Seron.

Jier frowned. "He got away."

Fami grimaced, her eyes narrowing to slits. "This is the last time he does."

Wynn didn't say anything. Seron's time wasn't up. Neither was his. But, the next time they met...would either survive?

******

Waves crashed along the beaches of Lake Hylia. The sun was setting, and the day was over. The area was peaceful, with little signs of life, only the water pounding against the sand.

Walking along the beach was a monster. Head hung low, the Tekiton sighed as it stared at its feet, depressed at the loss of its master. It was alone once again, as it had been after Seron's supposed death before. It had nowhere to go. The only option it had was with Kiara, but...it would have to be the one to tell her of Seron's death.

So involved in its line of thought was the monster that it didn't notice the body laying motionless in the sand until it tripped over it. The Tekiton sprawled across the sand, not moving for several moments. Then, in a rage stemming from its depression, it jumped to its feet and viscously kicked the object that had caused it to fall.

Its eye bulged as it recognized the thing it had just kicked. It dashed away, hiding behind a nearby bush, or trying to, as it was several times larger than the bush. It stared nervously at the thing, first sighing in relief when it didn't move, then chirping loudly and running to the object.

The thing that had caused the Tekiton to fall was none other than the motionless body of Seron. The Tekiton ran up to him, shaking him gently. At first, Seron didn't move, but eventually groaned. Ecstatic, the Tekiton hugged Seron, who promptly opened his eyes and shoved the monster away.

Seron sat up, glaring around. He sighed loudly. Grumbling under his breath, he motioned for the Tekiton to follow him. The two began the long walk into the field, leaving the lake behind as the sun disappeared from view.

******

Wynn stared up at the stars. The six heroes had just set up camp in the field, where they would spend the night. Tane was building a fire, and Nerah was preparing their food for cooking. Shezarah was off nearby, practicing blade routines. Fami was helping Nerah, and bickering with the Zora about their food. Jier had disappeared, probably going off to think.

As usual for the past few days, Wynn's thoughts centered on Seron. The dark wizard had nearly taken his life several times that day, and vice versa. Wynn frowned as he remembered his actions on the beach. He could have ended their rivalry there with one swift cut. Seron would be no more, and there would be no more worries about when the evil apprentice would attack again. Just one strike, and Seron would have been dead.

But, at what cost? To kill a defenseless man in cold blood...would have been to sink to Seron's level. He would have forsaken his honor, no longer been able to have looked himself in the eye.

However, by letting Seron free, he had enabled the villain to hurt or kill Wynn and his friends. Wynn had placed them all in danger because of his honor. If he had just finished the other man...

Wynn sighed. All of his previous battles had been straightforward: live, or die. Kill, or be killed. Now, he faced a villain that he had fought many times, but now had changed. Seron seemed different, less cruel and heartless. He reminded Wynn...of himself, at his journey's beginning. Wynn couldn't define the change, but he could sense it in Seron. Seron could be changed, could become good, with enough effort.

But, was this change Wynn sensed real, or had it stemmed from inside himself? After the loss of Solan, Wynn had begun to have a different view on those he had considered evil. Silver Knuckle had been one of his greatest enemies, yet had been his best friend in his heart. Icarnos, too, had been mislead, possessed by Ganon's evil and warped into a mockery of the great man he had been.

Seron had shown his weakness in Ganon's Tower, but it had been hidden immediately afterward. Wynn knew Seron only needed a chance, a reason, to turn good. But, where was it? What could possibly bring the good in Seron out?

Wynn closed his eyes, drifting off to sleep. Whatever it was, he swore, he would find it. Seron would not end up like Solan. Seron would be good. No matter the cost.

******

"Hey, sprout head, are you listening?" Nerah demanded.

Fami jumped, tearing her eyes away from the sleeping Wynn. "Yeah, I'm listening."

Nerah's eyes narrowed as she noticed the lack of an insult with Fami's reply. "What's wrong?"

Fami sighed. "Wynn seems so...distracted lately. It's as if Seron coming back has changed him. He's always thinking. I just wish things could be back like they were...and the only way to get that..."

Nerah nodded solemnly. "Seron has to be finished."

"You know...Wynn was holding back at the bridge."

"I agree. He could have blasted Seron easily, instead of running from the conflict."

Fami looked back to Wynn. "Why didn't he, then?"

Nerah's eyes glittered. "He didn't want to kill Seron."

"Well, he certainly has reason to!"

The Zora girl sat on the ground, wrapping her arms around her knees. "Do you remember Ganon's Castle?"

"How could I forget?"

"Remember when Seron said something about how Wynn couldn't save him?" Seeing Fami look down, Nerah continued. "And when he couldn't save Solan..."

"You don't think he wants to try to save Seron, do you?"

"You know Wynn better than I do. What do you think?"

Fami sighed, closing her eyes. "He would."

Nerah nodded. "I won't confront him about it, but this could get him killed."

Fami sneered. "Seron isn't worth saving."

Nerah smirked at her. "You're just mad because he's gotten over you."

Fami growled at her rival, then returned her gaze to the ground. "It's not that...not really. Well, it seemed as long as he was infatuated with me, he was at least a little human...now, he's lost even that. He's just a heartless monster."

Nerah laughed. "That, he is."

******

Kiara...

Seron stared up at the stars. He sighed as he put his arms behind his head, cushioning them against the hard ground. He looked upwards, hearing the Tekiton scurry about nearby. Today had been draining, and had nearly seen him die on two occasions. His luck had barely been enough to save him in the river, and again in the lake.

Seron shuddered. He knew that if he had died, it would have saved him one trouble: having to face Kiara if he didn't show up the next night. He had given her his word, and he had every intention of upholding it. Then, he could see her again, be with her, kiss her...

Seron's thoughts were interrupted as he sensed a dark presence close by. He leapt to his feet, his eyes scouring the murky darkness. The Tekiton looked over at him, chirping questioningly. Seron stood still for several more moments, then sat back down. "It was nothing."

Seron wasn't able to sleep much that night. First, he stayed alert, searching for any sign of the dark presence. Next, his thoughts came to Kiara once more. He smiled as he remembered the previous night, all thoughts of the probably imagined shadowy person in the darkness vanished.

"Sertane…Where did you come from? Who were your parents?" she had asked. He had avoided the question, but he had had a reason: even he didn't know. His past was obscured by a mist. The earliest he could remember was his apprenticeship to Icarnos. He had no memories of parents, of family, of friends.

"Seron...avenge me!" Seron gasped as the voice came to him. He blinked wildly, searching his mind for what had brought on that thought.

My father...who was he? Why did he want me to avenge him? Who killed him?

Who am I?

Seron sat up, shaking his head as if to clear it of the thoughts plaguing it. He stood, not knowing why. He clenched his fists, trying to silence the questions that were pouring forth.

Now isn't the time...I have to be rested for tomorrow. Tomorrow, I kill Wynn. Tomorrow, I win Hyrule. Tomorrow...I see Kiara again.

That thought placated his treacherous mind, as the questions stopped. He held on to the thought of Kiara like a drowning man. Soon, he reassured himself, he would see her again.

"Tomorrow night! You promised!"

Seron chuckled, sitting back down. Halfway down, he looked over, and saw the Tekiton. The monster lay curled up in a ball, shivering violently. Seron smiled at his loyal creature, and walked over to it. With a smooth motion, he removed his cape, and covered the sleeping creature with it, tucking it in. He then went back to his spot, and lay down, asleep within moments.

******

A dark form drifted over Seron, whose sleep suddenly became uneasy. "Well, twerp, looks like you're still alive. Too bad for you. I'll enjoy playing with your pitiful life before I kill you."

He sneered at Seron. "Tomorrow, any chance at happiness you have, you lose. Maybe next time, if you were to have a next time, you'll learn not to cross Jevax!"

******

"We made it!"

Wynn laughed, nodding to Tane. "One more key, and we have the Pendant. And now, we're right at the third key!"

The group was in Kakariko. Early that morning, they had risen, had breakfast, and began the long hike to Kakariko Village. They had marched non-stop, without rest or breaks. Now, they were in sight of their goal.

Wynn smiled. "I know where the key is...and, Jier, you said you knew where this "grave wide" is?"

Jier laughed. "In the graveyard. It's the monument for the Sheikah."

"You take Nerah and Fami. Tane, Shezarah, you come with me."

Each warrior nodded, and split up. Wynn started towards the center of town, home to a dried-up well. Legend had it that Link, the Hero of Time, had battled the evil monster that had once dwelled in the well. That fit the Fairy's riddle, "A well empty, where evil once grew."

Wynn jogged up to the well. A smile grew across his face as he spied a glowing red light at the bottom. "You two stay up here, to make sure Seron or any of his pals doesn't show up. I'll get the key."

The warrior couple smiled, hefting their weapons. "I almost hope Seron shows up," Shezarah said darkly.

Tane twirled his ax. "I'll cut him down to size for you, Wynn."

Wynn chuckled. "Thanks. I'll be right back."

Wynn began the climb into the well. An old rusty ladder led down into the darkness, and each step Wynn went down it responded in protest with shrill squeaking. Lower Wynn went, until finally his foot struck cold stone. He released the ladder, turning around. Before him floated a key, with the end made of a glowing red crystal. Grabbing it with a smirk, Wynn turned back to the ladder.

Tane and Shezarah looked around nervously, weapons ready. They sensed something was wrong. However, they didn't even see the gloved hand emerging from the shadows, crackling with power.

Wynn's hand reached for the last rung on the ladder when the shadow fell over him. Alarmed, he looked up into the gloating face of Seron. "Well, this is easier than shooting a cucco in a box! Wynn of Hyrule, hero and adventurer, trapped!" Seron's eyes narrowed dangerously, and his voice became cold. "Give me the keys."

Wynn's hand shot up, his power ready to blast Seron. Before he released, however, he noticed Seron point a hand to the side. "Go ahead. You try and shoot me, and I fry your friends. Give me the keys, and they live."

"You won't get away with this."

"I already have."

Sighing, his eyes burning with shame and anger, he chucked the three keys up to Seron. The wizard didn't brag or gloat, merely point his hand at Wynn. "Farewell, Wynn."

Wynn stared Seron in the eyes as the dark wizard charged the final shot. Seron glared back, then froze.

"Why did Seron attack you?"

"Let's say I was in the wrong place at the wrong time."

Seron, his hand pointed at Wynn's chest, grimaced. In a swift motion, he lowered his hand, shooting the rungs Wynn held on to. With a loud cry, Wynn fell. Seron walked away, not bothering to watch his rival plummet.

He missed! was Wynn's last thought before he hit the stone floor of the well.

******

Jier froze. Seron was nearby, he knew it. His eyes narrowed, and he spun, his dagger seeking out the fiend.

He wasn't fast enough. His blade struck a shield of Seron's power, angling it away from Seron. The wizard lashed out with a foot, but Jier leaped skyward. Seron had anticipated this move, and sent a low power wave of his magic arcing out, catching Jier and flinging him out of the fight.

Seron was immediately knocked back by a geyser of water and vines snapping at his shield from every side. He grimaced, straining to hold up his force field. There was no way he could attack while they were pounding away at his defenses.

Concentrating, Seron used another form of his magic. While the Zora girl was concentrating on battering Seron, the wizard used his magic to pick up a fist-sized rock and send it flying at her from behind. With a groan, Nerah sank to her knees, and then to the ground. Fami, furious, sent vines lashing at Seron's impenetrable wall. Seron growled, expanding his shield, pouring his power into it as it wilted and burned the vines. He floated into the air, sending out a single blast that caught the girl in the shoulder.

His foes taken care of, Seron dispelled his shield and returned to the ground. Taking swift steps, he walked up to the gravestone, which was several times larger than normal ones. Carefully, he placed the three keys in front of it. Each glowed brilliantly, increasing in brightness as he lowered each one to the stone. When the third one was set down, a blue flash of light blinded Seron. When he re-opened his eyes, he noticed a new weight around his neck. With a cocky grin, he held up the Pendant of Wisdom, laughing. "Well, that was easy."

Hearing an exhausted "Chiiirrrrppp..." behind him, Seron turned.

"It's about time you caught up! Come, we must leave before they wake up."

The Tekiton stared at him incredulously, then lowered its head. It was already looking like it would be a long day...

******

Seron hummed self-satisfied as he strolled through Kakariko. Next stop, Kiara's house! He smiled at that thought, and stepped in front of her door.

His hand was inches away from the door when everything vanished.

"Hello, twerp."

Seron blinked rapidly. He and the Tekiton had gone from being at Kiara's house to being on a cliff, high on Death Mountain. And standing before him...

Seron fell to the ground, stars spinning behind his closed eyelids as he heard a loud ringing. He was jerked roughly from the ground by a fist gripping his tunic at the neck. "That was a warning. Answer my questions, or you'll see a lot worse."

Seron's assailant was a young man, a few years older than he. Incredibly lean and tall, the man held Seron off the ground. He wore a black tunic, with red lining running down the arms. His hands were gauntleted, with red spike designs running up from where the gloves met his sleeves. His pants and boots were similar in color.

The mysterious man was powerful for his skinny frame. His arms and legs seemed nothing but skin and bone, yet he was able to hold Seron aloft with no effort. His face was sharply angled, with a jutting chin and narrow dark eyes. His lips were a thin line, and a scowl dominated his face. His light brown hair was spiked.

In his right hand was a staff, as tall as he. This had been the weapon he had used to strike Seron. It was wooden, yet had felt as hard as stone.

"Who are you?" Seron gasped.

The man threw Seron down hard. "I'm the one asking the questions, fool!"

Seron's eyes narrowed. "Jevas."

Again, the staff struck. "Jevax."

"Groan…whatever."

Whack! "Show some respect, infidel!"

Seron gasped in pain. "You…you were talking to Icarnos…"

Jevax nodded. "Old fool, him. I wanted him as a partner. He laughed at me."

"He…said you were an idiot…"

"Did he now?" Whack! "Well, I'll show him who the idiot is, once my plans are complete!"

Seron didn't reply, as he was nearly unconscious.

"Now, for our business. I have heard of your petty little quest for the pendants…they are too powerful for the likes of you. Now, hand over the Pendant of Power, and you live."

"I…can't…" Seron groaned.

"You still resist? Some find that to be honorable…I just think it is the mark of a fool! Give the Pendant to me, NOW!"

"I don't…have it…"

"Liar! If beating you isn't enough to gain your cooperation, then how is this?" A shriek of fright followed his comment.

Seron weakly opened an eye. Nearby, the Tekiton was held with a knife pressed to its shell by a young Zora girl. She was younger than Seron by a couple of years, almost a child. She was pretty, but dangerous, as the look in her eye let him know. The way she held herself was another sign she was not one to mess with.

Seron looked at the girl and his monster, then back to Jevax. He sat up, then stood, looking the taller man in the eye. His only answer was to spit in the face of the man.

"Kill him."

The Tekiton wildly flailed its arms, battering the girl. She tried to stab it, but the blade angled off. The Tekiton's attempt to escape set both off balance, and the two fell to the ground. Like the frightened animal it was, it scrambled for a way out.

Jevax scowled, pointing a fist at the monster. With a loud "Oof!", he fell to the ground as a kick from Seron cut his legs out from under him. He growled in fury as he watched the two run away, and pointed both his fists at the pair.

Seron and the Tekiton ran for their freedom, following the path down the mountain. As they neared a cliff, they were hit by what felt like two cold walls of darkness. Both felt the darkness overcome them as they were knocked off the cliff. They weren't even awake as they fell, dropping like stones to the ground far below.