Chapter 4
Within the passages of the shrine, Link heard a short sound. Holding his breath so as not to
make a noise, he readied his sword and treaded carefully though the corridor. The last thing he
expected to hear was his name being called.
"Link?" A soft voice whispered.
"Navi?" Link's throat became dry. Was it her? He rushed to the sound of her voice, his new wings
giving him an added bounce in his step.
"Link?" The voice called again softly.
"Navi!" Link shouted, and he came face to face with a young fairy. As soon as he saw the figure,
he grabbed her in a friendly embrace.
"Link!" Navi said nearly suffocating.
"Where have you been? What are you doing here? What's going on?" Link managed to quickly as he
could.
"Link, I'm sorry. Really, really sorry."
"No, I'm sorry" he said at last. He so much wanted to say it.
"But I.....I was the one that...left."
"I can understand why. You were just trying to help me, and I was too stubborn."
"No Link! That's not why I left. This was something I had to do...But you sure look different!
You're so small. You're my Size! And wings? What in Hyrule happened to you? Why are you a
fairy?"
Link still couldn't get over the fact he had found his lost friend. "Oh Navi. I wish you
could've been there. It wasn't Hyrule, yet it was... It's so complicated" he sighed.
"Why are you a fairy though?" Navi asked. She had to admit, Link made a really good looking
fairy...
Link started to briefly explain Termina, and about the masks he had collected. "They change
your form to what they represent. At least some of them do... but forget about that. Where have
you been?"
"Link... I didn't want you to come. I had to face this myself."
"Face what? Come on! We're an incredible team, you know that!"
Navi distanced herself. "Link, when I was assigned to you, it was the happiest day of my life.
But we did something terrible." He lips started to tremble at the thought.
"What? What did we do?" Link was confused.
"The great Deku tree..." Navi whispered.
Link fell silent. The one person he could not save. The Tree spirit was like a father to the
Kokiri, and in a sense, it was his too. "I know," Link spoke sympathetically. "But, you saw what
will happen in the future. The Deku scrub will be born in seven years time. We just have to
wait, then everything will be okay."
"Link... by then, it will be too late."
"Huh?"
"Listen Link. Remember what we learned? The Deku tree existed as part of the balance of this
world. Even with the Deku scrub coming, the forest is already upset. The balance between good
and evil has been disrupted. Tell me, haven't you seen more attacks towards the Kokiri village?
The longer cries of the Wolfos? Even... hostility between the Kokiri themselves?"
Link was a bit hesitant to answer. "Well... Mido hasn't been allowing me in lately. I am sort
of... in exile," He added.
Navi Became angry at the thought of that, and Link realised it. She will have to deal with Mido
and his fairy later. She started to explain what was at stake. "The forest has become a true
place to fear. Nobody knows exactly where the imbalance will lead. It will destroy all the
Kokiri soon, at least it might. No one knows what the final result will be..."
"Why didn't you say so? What can we do?" Asked Link.
"Link, I didn't want you to worry. I had to come here, and I knew you could never get this
deep. Then again, I forgot how resourceful you are," she smiled, but her expression became
serious again. "I searched though the ancient texts of our race. We had to restore balance, but
everything I found is obscure gibberish."
"But you did find something?" said Link.
"Only just now. I.. have heard of a legend. Sam'kemesa."
Link stopped as if a thunderbolt hit him. "That word again! You told me it in a dream!"
"You told me it in a dream too!" Said Navi shocked.
"Do you know what it means?"
"Sort of. As far as I can tell, it refers to an artefact. It has the power of 'Life, Death,
and the moments in between'."
"Time..." Link thought.
"Exactly. We need to find it, and use it to bring back the Great Deku tree. With him revived,
balance will be restored."
"Could you find anything else?" Link asked. They needed something to go on. A map, a lead,
anything.
"I searched everywhere, but I found nothing. This is our greatest archive. It contains the
history of ages further then the Hylians records. But most of the records have been damaged
over time."
Something was making Link feel on edge about this. "We should get going, Saria's waiting
outside."
"Saria's here too?" Navi said surprised.
"Yeah, with Sayl."
Link and Navi walked down the corridors, and quickly made their way to the entrance.
******************************************************************************
Dark Link felt something on his boot. He glanced down, to see the Fairy village, his foot had
just destroyed one of the buildings.
He started to grin as he envisioned the potential devastation.
Fairies everywhere were panicking, and acted like a hive trying to sting Dark Link. A few swipes
of his sword and they retreated. He was sorely tempted to demolish the rest of the town. "Why
not?" He thought. Raising his foot he gave a quick pause, like he was performing an execution.
His foot came down, smashing another building. he started smashing a few more, hoping to crush
the inhabitants. More tiny voices joined in the screaming. Dark Link was enjoying himself
immensely, so he was completely unaware of a fairy spell being aimed at him.
Dark Link felt himself thrown back against the trees, as a thunder-like blast erupted around
him. He had only just brought his shield up in time. He brushed himself down, and noticed the
fairies trying to prepare another blast of magic. He didn't give them a chance, as he rushed at
the group, scattering them.
"Interesting friends you are hiding behind Link," He said to himself. "Show yourself, you
coward!"
After he was satisfied that the village was totally destroyed, he noticed the one building
standing on its own. It stood to about his height, and was obviously a place of important
significance. He then noticed the two fairies trying to fly away. Taking a magic bottle out, he
managed to capture one.
"Let me out of here!" Said Saria as she tapped the sides of the glass.
Dark Link laughed at the tiny creature's pitiful cry. He got a closer look. A moment of
confusion came to him as he stared at her face. "I... Know you." Dark Link tried to remember,
in his fragmented memory. It was in a part of him he could not access.
Saria also saw into the dark eyes of the shadow, realising it looked like a grown up version of
Link. "Who... who are you?" She asked.
"Where's Link? You know him, don't you! Tell me, or die."
"I'll never tell you!" said Saria defiantly.
Sayl started buzzing all around Dark Link's head. As he tried to brush her away, she managed to
fly back and poke him in the eye. In recoil, Dark Link drop the bottle. The glass vile rolled
on to the earth.
"Curse you!" he shouted at the annoying fairy. He managed to swat Sayl with his hand, then he
picked up the vial containing Saria. "Now, where were we?"
***************************************************************************
Link and Navi exited the shrine, only to be greeted by the total carnage surrounding them.
"It's Dark Link!" Navi shouted in total surprise and shock.
Link stared at the huge shadow, dumbfounded. How did he get here? "I've got to change back." He
thought "Where's Saria?" He got his answer, when Dark Link pulled out the bottle.
"We've got to save her!" said Navi.
Link got ready to pull off the Fairy mask. He clutched the sides of his face, feeling the magic
swell out of him. Changing back was always less painful, since you knew exactly what was going
to happen. When he transformed, Navi was instantly under his hat.
"Careful Link." Navi advised. "You are no longer an adult, and he is exactly as he was before.
And I also sense something different about his power..."
"Just Like old times," Link thought.
Dark Link saw him come out of nowhere. "So, the little hero finally decides to show up," he
said. He expected his rival to be a child, but not this small. What a joke.
"Let her go," said Link.
"Who? This?" He held up the vile. "Tell me, who is she to you? Or to us?"
"She is nothing to you." Said Link.
"Ah, a friend then." he said as he drew his sword. "Come and get her, if you can!"
Link jumped into the reach of his shadow, unleashing a barrage of sword attacks.
Dark Link without even trying started to block and parry. "Is this it? What else have you got?"
Link tried his hardest, but every attack was just out of reach due to his smaller arms. He was
physically limited in this battle. He resorted to magic. "Din's Fire!" He shouted.
Dark Link knew this trick and instantly brought up his shield. The fire spread and hit his
shield, leaving him completely unscathed. Suddenly, he saw Link charge at him while crouched.
Link's sword just managed to brush against his arm as he adapted. "Nice try. But you are years
beyond me," he sneered.
Link realised his current attack style was not working. He reached into his interdimentional
bag.
"What are you doing?" Navi asked.
"I have something we can use." Link pulled out the rabbit mask and put it on.
"How's that gonna help?" Navi said, impatient.
Dark Link also did not seem impressed by the hood. "So, you really are a little kid." he laughed.
"Don't you even want to die with dignity?"
With the power of the mask, Link instantly closed the distance between them. He gave a quick
Jab into Dark Link's torso then circled around him.
Dark Link reeled back dropping the magic bottle that contained Saria.
Waiting for this moment, Sayl quickly flew to the bottle and managed to drag it a few feet from
the battle zone.
Enraged, Dark Link counter-attacked.
*********************************************************************************
"You're safe now Saria" Said Sayl.
"Who or what is that!" Saria said in surprised.
"I don't know. All I know it is just as good, if not better then Link at fighting."
Saria started to pull of the fairy mask. "Well let's see how he deals with all of us."
"I think Link had better handle this." Sayl advised.
Saria transformed back and watched her friend defend them. The shadow was matching Link's every
move and every blow exact. Yet, the shadow was much taller and stronger then Link. Link was
fairing much better with the hood, but the shadow still had a slight edge. She then saw a small
streak of light emanate from Link, and noticed Navi. "He's found her!" she thought.
***********************************************************************************
Once more, Link could not get past the shadow's defences. The speed the hood gave was proving
to be of less benefit then he hoped.
"You are fast, but I am faster still!" Dark Link taunted. Even in the middle of a battle, the
attraction of power was still strong. 'Doubling your speed' he thought. All he had to do was
let Link inside his defence, make him miss a swing, then... "Ha!" He grabbed the mask from Links
head.
The loss of speed made Link stumble, but he regained his balance and took a step back.
"So, I have you speed hood. I wonder, what would happen if I wear it?"
"You can try," said Link trying to hide his exhaustion.
Dark Link twirled the mask in his hand. Link was devious, just like him. But in a different
way. It wouldn't surprise him if the items were protected by a spell. He put the item in his
own interdimentional bag.
Link wished he could use the Zora mask, but that sword Dark Link carried looked like it will
cut through Zora fins with ease. The Goron mask would give great defence, but his speed would
be far too slow. He wasn't even going to consider the Deku scrub mask. Dark link will hack him
to pieces.
"Link!" Saria shouted across to him. "Try a different mask!"
"What other masks do you have?" Asked Navi.
Link pulled out the stone mask.
"Yes!" Saria thought to herself. "Link told me about this mask!"
As Link put it on Saria watched unblinking, seeing him become transparent. To her eyes, Link
still appeared 'semi there.' Hopefully Dark Link was not that aware of his environment and Link
could win.
"The coward has fled again?" said Dark Link. He had only taken his eyes off for a second. Where
did he go?
Link tried to move with complete grace. He had not made a sound with his steps. He got closer
and slightly behind Dark Link, ready to use the sword.
Suddenly, Dark Link turned around and garbed the mask off his face.
"Don't appear too surprised." Dark Link laughed. "We are connected, you and me. You can not hide
behind these masks." He once more regarded the mask. Near invisibility could also be useful...
"You are losing all you masks Link," said Navi.
"I realise that!" Link replied annoyed. "Umm, thank you" He quickly added. "Can you think of anything?"
"Have you got any other spells? I think physical attacks are not going to help here."
"I thought that too." Link started to think. The giant mask would be off little use, what magic
he had he had already used up. His memory pointed him to only one last course of action. It was
one he wanted to avoid for as long as he could, but it seems he has run out of choices.
"What are you thinking Link?" Navi said in concern.
"Navi. I want you to go, and take Saria. Get as far away from here as you can," he said in a final tone.
"What?! What are you doing?!" Navi said surprised.
Link pulled out another mask. "Please Navi. This power is too intense. If I lose control... Just
go to Saria and keep a safe distance away. Please..."
"Alright Link." Navi floated towards his friends.
"So even you companions leave you." Dark Link taunted. "How does it feel? Do you feel angry? Do
you want to take it out on me?"
"Oh, I am not angry." Said Link dangerously. "You could say I am about to get fierce though."
"Another mask trick? Well don't let me stop you."
Link gave a short laugh. He felt the Fierce Deity mask in his hands. "Keep me safe..." he
thought to no one in particular. He raised the mask to his face, the voice of the infinite
powers calling and begging to be unleashed.
He could not resist.
**********************************************************************************
"We have to get out of here," Navi said to Saria and Sayl.
"Navi?" She wanted to ask where she was, but that will have to wait. Why? What's happening?"
"I think Link is about to do something very dangerous." Navi said in concern.
Saria looked at the battle zone, and saw the mask Link was about to put on. "Oh no!" She
screamed. "Quick! Move!" She shouted. They all moved as far away as possible. The Earth started
to shake, caught in the awaking of this power.
"He's using the Fierce Deity mask," Saria thought. As the earthquake subsided, the air seemed to stand still. She knew it was the calm before the storm. "I hope you know what you're doing Link..."
***********************************************************************************
Fierce Link looked upon his rival with distaste. He brought his incredibly huge sword into his
hand.
"Am I supposed to be impressed?" Dark Link said automatically, but he was already feeling...
concerned. He could feel a new power flowing now. Evil? Good? It didn't appear to be either. Or
could it be both? Either way, this fight just got a lot more interesting then he thought it
would be. Can this 'kid' be stronger then him?
"Let's find out..." Fierce Link unleashed his attack
************************************************************************************
"So what are you saying Saria?" asked Navi.
"The Fierce deity mask is Link's most powerful item. He doesn't like the power though. He told
me it felt like... it could take him over. It gives him the form of an incredible fighter. No
one has ever stood before him and lived."
"So Link may turn evil?!" Sayl said.
"Never!" Saria said. "His heart is pure. He will stay in control..." She prayed he would.
************************************************************************************
In the smouldering ashes of what was left, Fierce Link continued to battle. He hacked and
slashed at his opponent. Most people would be dead now by his sword, this individual quietly
impressed him. This was actually getting to be a lot of... fun.
Dark Link flipped away from another swing. His powers were already waning, but he would not show
weakness to this abomination. He managed to cut into the strange armour, but it only did minimal
surface damage.
"Surprised?" Fierce Link swung his sword once more, Cutting into Dark Links body.
Dark Link looked at the wound, the final realisation of his fate. But before he could even
slump, the Fierce deity smited him again with a blow to his face, knocking him back. A remote
part of him that was still conscious thought "he's even darker then you..."
Dark Link just became conscious once more to avoid another needless blow. Coughing up blood, he
did the only thing that came to his mind. "I.. I... give up"
"Good. Now hold still..." Fierce Link came forward, his sword glinting in the light.
"I... said... I give up" Dark Link said in a desperation he never thought could ever come to him.
Link felt the fierce rage burn into him. This shadow attacked him, it destroyed the Faery
village, it dared to threaten Saria! Why should he show mercy, just to let him do it again? He
raised the sword. "No!!!" Link screamed wavering just before the final blow.
************************************************************************************
The sounds of battle subsided.
"Shouldn't we get back?" Said Navi.
"Yes" said Saria. *I'm just worried about what I will see* she thought to herself. Link must
have won, he never lost. But at what cost?
Saria and the fairies returned to the clearing. Link was lying face down, the Fierce Deity mask
still in his hand.
"I guess the battle is over," said Saria as she rushed to her friend. But where was Dark Link?
************************************************************************************
"My, that was a good fight" the Mask salesman said.
"..." Link was in nothing. He floated in what he knew had to be a dream.
"For a moment, I was sure you didn't need the mask. But I guess he was too much for you."
"..." Link heard the voice but couldn't think of a response.
"Don't you have anything to say?"
Link was silent.
"Then, may I ask you something? What do you think you would have done, if I had not removed Dark
Link for you?"
"I... I don't... know." Link managed to say.
"You've killed many monsters. Shed more blood then people three times your age. Why should this
be any different?"
"They... they were all... animals....or demons... Evil, or doing someone else's bidding." said
Link. He had never taken somone in cold blood.
"So you kill them, but waiver with Dark Link. Or is it the mask that makes you hesitate? Do you
enjoy... fighting."
"NO! I HATE FIGHTING!" Link screamed.
"You hate your destiny? It is unsurprising. Dark Link was right about one thing, you are still
very young. It is not something to be ashamed of though. You make a difference with your fights,
you save kingdoms, worlds, from extinction. You should be proud" he said honestly.
"Why me?" Said Link.
"Because it can only be you Link, and no one else. My turn for a question, do you... fear, the
Fierce Deity mask?"
"Yes."
"Why?" The salesman pressed.
"It doesn't feel right. It can do nothing but destroy."
"But Link, you have it all wrong. That mask is special, it has very little power."
"Then... what?"
"It is not a mask at all. It has the power to release 'you'. The true you, your most highest
potential. Like most things of this power, it can not be destroyed. But if you do not want it,
just give it up."
"I can't give it to anyone" Link thought, defeated. "If someone else uses it, it might be
Termina all over again. It is my responsibility."
"I understand. The burden an agent of good feels, when he finds such a mask, or any such power.
We salesman are not of this world, you can give it to us for safe keeping..."
Link looked into the eyes of this stranger. "I don't trust you."
"Honesty. I like that. But believe me, it is for everyone's benefit. Time will tell what
happens... Looks like it is time for you to wake up."
"What did you do with Dark Link?" Link asked.
"His usefulness is at an end..."
"You mean you're the one that sent him? Why? What are you doing?"
"Goodbye Link... I don't know if we will meet again. But I for one hope so. I just came to wish
you luck. I plan on visiting a few more... friends of yours. I hope Saria is enjoying her new
form, by the way."
"LEAVE THEM OUT OF THIS!" Link shouted, to the disappearing face.
"May you find happiness..."
************************************************************************************
Link woke up, to see Saria standing over him. He began to get up, Saria gently helped him.
"Not so fast Link" said Saria. "Are you okay?"
Link nodded.
"Of course he's okay," said Navi. "Me and Link have taken worse then this!"
Link got up. "Dark Link..."
"What happened to him?" Asked Saria. "Did you..."
"I don't know... I remember, I was wearing the fierce Deity Mask. Him and me were fighting, and
I was winning. Then I must have blacked out...
"You... you weren't taken over, where you?" Saria said looking at the Mask. Its eyes gave an
eyrie feeling into her.
"I don't think so. Dark Link disappeared, just before I finished him. I remember, I took off the
mask. Then..." Link tried to remember, but the rest was blank. "The salesman..."
"Who?" Asked Navi.
"I think he told me something in a dream."
"I don't trust dreams" said Sayl.
"The salesman said... something. He was after... Zelda!" His eyes widened in realisation.
"What's the matter Link?" Saria asked.
"Zelda! I think he's going after her. And not just her, perhaps everyone!" Link exclaimed. How
many people had he met in his travels? Who would the Salesman go after?
"Who is this Mask Salesman? Do you mean the one at the Market place?" Navi asked confused.
"Ill explain later, we've got to hurry!"
************************************************************************************
Dark Link was unsure what happened. All he could see was that shining sword that threatened to
take his life away. All of a sudden, it was gone.
"I see you are awake. Good."
Dark Link saw the masked salesman. "You..." he coughed. "You... lied."
"Never! I told you could not lose to Link as a child." The Salesman said, maintaining his
integrity.
"That mask... he was a monster. I had no chance...," he thought.
"That is in the past. But you did what I hoped you did."
"What?"
"You took the masks... give them to me."
Dark Link laughed. "You expect me to just give them to you?"
The salesman held out the Mask of Majora. "Give them to me..." he said in a hypnotic voice. The
mask's eyes glowed red.
The shadow felt the powers that give him life now take control of him. He reached into his
interdimentional bag, and gave the two masks. "No... I want them..."
"Thank you Link." he said, taking the rabbit hood and the Stone mask.
"I am not Link..."
"No, you are his shadow. But to the masks, you are just as good as the real thing. By the way,
I'm afraid the Mask of Majora can no longer sustain your existence in this time."
"What!?" Link eyes trailed to the mask. Still, what did it matter? He was dying anyway.
Do you know what happens to all shadows?" The salesman asked.
Dark Link knew he was not going to like this.
"Either, the light comes and destroys them forever, or they remain in darkness unable to do
anything. A sad fact, but one that you are about to join. Goodbye, Dark Link."
"No!!!" Dark Link screamed.
The salesman paused for a moment, sympathy got the better of him. He brought out an organ from
nowhere. "Very well, I give you a gift... as a thank you." He played the song of healing.
Dark Link didn't want to vanish, just like all the others do. He was a shadow, a spell. But a
brilliant spell.
Then this music came.
He realised he was not alive, but it didn't matter. He existed. This music reminded him that
Link existed, and it was an honour, to be a part of his story. His legacy. A peace filled him
and touched him more then he ever thought could be possible for him. He was Evil. But he played
his role as he was meant to.
Then he vanished.
The salesman picked up the Mask of Dark Link. "My happiness has just increased. I am glad I
could help you. But now..." he put the mask in his bag. It was a shame the mask was not very
powerful, he knew it wouldn't be, since the creature didn't have much of a life of his own. All
the life force came from the Mask of Majora. Still, he was surprised at what he did get. It will
have to be tested later, to see exactly what it can do.
"I have done it. I have many masks, some have great power, others are incredibly happy.....
Yes, I know, it is time........... Saria has already been done.....Zelda..... Ruto.... Darunia...
Naburu.... he grinned. And.... Malon.... it is perfect." He regarded each of the masks.
To be continued.
*******************************************************************************************
Within the passages of the shrine, Link heard a short sound. Holding his breath so as not to
make a noise, he readied his sword and treaded carefully though the corridor. The last thing he
expected to hear was his name being called.
"Link?" A soft voice whispered.
"Navi?" Link's throat became dry. Was it her? He rushed to the sound of her voice, his new wings
giving him an added bounce in his step.
"Link?" The voice called again softly.
"Navi!" Link shouted, and he came face to face with a young fairy. As soon as he saw the figure,
he grabbed her in a friendly embrace.
"Link!" Navi said nearly suffocating.
"Where have you been? What are you doing here? What's going on?" Link managed to quickly as he
could.
"Link, I'm sorry. Really, really sorry."
"No, I'm sorry" he said at last. He so much wanted to say it.
"But I.....I was the one that...left."
"I can understand why. You were just trying to help me, and I was too stubborn."
"No Link! That's not why I left. This was something I had to do...But you sure look different!
You're so small. You're my Size! And wings? What in Hyrule happened to you? Why are you a
fairy?"
Link still couldn't get over the fact he had found his lost friend. "Oh Navi. I wish you
could've been there. It wasn't Hyrule, yet it was... It's so complicated" he sighed.
"Why are you a fairy though?" Navi asked. She had to admit, Link made a really good looking
fairy...
Link started to briefly explain Termina, and about the masks he had collected. "They change
your form to what they represent. At least some of them do... but forget about that. Where have
you been?"
"Link... I didn't want you to come. I had to face this myself."
"Face what? Come on! We're an incredible team, you know that!"
Navi distanced herself. "Link, when I was assigned to you, it was the happiest day of my life.
But we did something terrible." He lips started to tremble at the thought.
"What? What did we do?" Link was confused.
"The great Deku tree..." Navi whispered.
Link fell silent. The one person he could not save. The Tree spirit was like a father to the
Kokiri, and in a sense, it was his too. "I know," Link spoke sympathetically. "But, you saw what
will happen in the future. The Deku scrub will be born in seven years time. We just have to
wait, then everything will be okay."
"Link... by then, it will be too late."
"Huh?"
"Listen Link. Remember what we learned? The Deku tree existed as part of the balance of this
world. Even with the Deku scrub coming, the forest is already upset. The balance between good
and evil has been disrupted. Tell me, haven't you seen more attacks towards the Kokiri village?
The longer cries of the Wolfos? Even... hostility between the Kokiri themselves?"
Link was a bit hesitant to answer. "Well... Mido hasn't been allowing me in lately. I am sort
of... in exile," He added.
Navi Became angry at the thought of that, and Link realised it. She will have to deal with Mido
and his fairy later. She started to explain what was at stake. "The forest has become a true
place to fear. Nobody knows exactly where the imbalance will lead. It will destroy all the
Kokiri soon, at least it might. No one knows what the final result will be..."
"Why didn't you say so? What can we do?" Asked Link.
"Link, I didn't want you to worry. I had to come here, and I knew you could never get this
deep. Then again, I forgot how resourceful you are," she smiled, but her expression became
serious again. "I searched though the ancient texts of our race. We had to restore balance, but
everything I found is obscure gibberish."
"But you did find something?" said Link.
"Only just now. I.. have heard of a legend. Sam'kemesa."
Link stopped as if a thunderbolt hit him. "That word again! You told me it in a dream!"
"You told me it in a dream too!" Said Navi shocked.
"Do you know what it means?"
"Sort of. As far as I can tell, it refers to an artefact. It has the power of 'Life, Death,
and the moments in between'."
"Time..." Link thought.
"Exactly. We need to find it, and use it to bring back the Great Deku tree. With him revived,
balance will be restored."
"Could you find anything else?" Link asked. They needed something to go on. A map, a lead,
anything.
"I searched everywhere, but I found nothing. This is our greatest archive. It contains the
history of ages further then the Hylians records. But most of the records have been damaged
over time."
Something was making Link feel on edge about this. "We should get going, Saria's waiting
outside."
"Saria's here too?" Navi said surprised.
"Yeah, with Sayl."
Link and Navi walked down the corridors, and quickly made their way to the entrance.
******************************************************************************
Dark Link felt something on his boot. He glanced down, to see the Fairy village, his foot had
just destroyed one of the buildings.
He started to grin as he envisioned the potential devastation.
Fairies everywhere were panicking, and acted like a hive trying to sting Dark Link. A few swipes
of his sword and they retreated. He was sorely tempted to demolish the rest of the town. "Why
not?" He thought. Raising his foot he gave a quick pause, like he was performing an execution.
His foot came down, smashing another building. he started smashing a few more, hoping to crush
the inhabitants. More tiny voices joined in the screaming. Dark Link was enjoying himself
immensely, so he was completely unaware of a fairy spell being aimed at him.
Dark Link felt himself thrown back against the trees, as a thunder-like blast erupted around
him. He had only just brought his shield up in time. He brushed himself down, and noticed the
fairies trying to prepare another blast of magic. He didn't give them a chance, as he rushed at
the group, scattering them.
"Interesting friends you are hiding behind Link," He said to himself. "Show yourself, you
coward!"
After he was satisfied that the village was totally destroyed, he noticed the one building
standing on its own. It stood to about his height, and was obviously a place of important
significance. He then noticed the two fairies trying to fly away. Taking a magic bottle out, he
managed to capture one.
"Let me out of here!" Said Saria as she tapped the sides of the glass.
Dark Link laughed at the tiny creature's pitiful cry. He got a closer look. A moment of
confusion came to him as he stared at her face. "I... Know you." Dark Link tried to remember,
in his fragmented memory. It was in a part of him he could not access.
Saria also saw into the dark eyes of the shadow, realising it looked like a grown up version of
Link. "Who... who are you?" She asked.
"Where's Link? You know him, don't you! Tell me, or die."
"I'll never tell you!" said Saria defiantly.
Sayl started buzzing all around Dark Link's head. As he tried to brush her away, she managed to
fly back and poke him in the eye. In recoil, Dark Link drop the bottle. The glass vile rolled
on to the earth.
"Curse you!" he shouted at the annoying fairy. He managed to swat Sayl with his hand, then he
picked up the vial containing Saria. "Now, where were we?"
***************************************************************************
Link and Navi exited the shrine, only to be greeted by the total carnage surrounding them.
"It's Dark Link!" Navi shouted in total surprise and shock.
Link stared at the huge shadow, dumbfounded. How did he get here? "I've got to change back." He
thought "Where's Saria?" He got his answer, when Dark Link pulled out the bottle.
"We've got to save her!" said Navi.
Link got ready to pull off the Fairy mask. He clutched the sides of his face, feeling the magic
swell out of him. Changing back was always less painful, since you knew exactly what was going
to happen. When he transformed, Navi was instantly under his hat.
"Careful Link." Navi advised. "You are no longer an adult, and he is exactly as he was before.
And I also sense something different about his power..."
"Just Like old times," Link thought.
Dark Link saw him come out of nowhere. "So, the little hero finally decides to show up," he
said. He expected his rival to be a child, but not this small. What a joke.
"Let her go," said Link.
"Who? This?" He held up the vile. "Tell me, who is she to you? Or to us?"
"She is nothing to you." Said Link.
"Ah, a friend then." he said as he drew his sword. "Come and get her, if you can!"
Link jumped into the reach of his shadow, unleashing a barrage of sword attacks.
Dark Link without even trying started to block and parry. "Is this it? What else have you got?"
Link tried his hardest, but every attack was just out of reach due to his smaller arms. He was
physically limited in this battle. He resorted to magic. "Din's Fire!" He shouted.
Dark Link knew this trick and instantly brought up his shield. The fire spread and hit his
shield, leaving him completely unscathed. Suddenly, he saw Link charge at him while crouched.
Link's sword just managed to brush against his arm as he adapted. "Nice try. But you are years
beyond me," he sneered.
Link realised his current attack style was not working. He reached into his interdimentional
bag.
"What are you doing?" Navi asked.
"I have something we can use." Link pulled out the rabbit mask and put it on.
"How's that gonna help?" Navi said, impatient.
Dark Link also did not seem impressed by the hood. "So, you really are a little kid." he laughed.
"Don't you even want to die with dignity?"
With the power of the mask, Link instantly closed the distance between them. He gave a quick
Jab into Dark Link's torso then circled around him.
Dark Link reeled back dropping the magic bottle that contained Saria.
Waiting for this moment, Sayl quickly flew to the bottle and managed to drag it a few feet from
the battle zone.
Enraged, Dark Link counter-attacked.
*********************************************************************************
"You're safe now Saria" Said Sayl.
"Who or what is that!" Saria said in surprised.
"I don't know. All I know it is just as good, if not better then Link at fighting."
Saria started to pull of the fairy mask. "Well let's see how he deals with all of us."
"I think Link had better handle this." Sayl advised.
Saria transformed back and watched her friend defend them. The shadow was matching Link's every
move and every blow exact. Yet, the shadow was much taller and stronger then Link. Link was
fairing much better with the hood, but the shadow still had a slight edge. She then saw a small
streak of light emanate from Link, and noticed Navi. "He's found her!" she thought.
***********************************************************************************
Once more, Link could not get past the shadow's defences. The speed the hood gave was proving
to be of less benefit then he hoped.
"You are fast, but I am faster still!" Dark Link taunted. Even in the middle of a battle, the
attraction of power was still strong. 'Doubling your speed' he thought. All he had to do was
let Link inside his defence, make him miss a swing, then... "Ha!" He grabbed the mask from Links
head.
The loss of speed made Link stumble, but he regained his balance and took a step back.
"So, I have you speed hood. I wonder, what would happen if I wear it?"
"You can try," said Link trying to hide his exhaustion.
Dark Link twirled the mask in his hand. Link was devious, just like him. But in a different
way. It wouldn't surprise him if the items were protected by a spell. He put the item in his
own interdimentional bag.
Link wished he could use the Zora mask, but that sword Dark Link carried looked like it will
cut through Zora fins with ease. The Goron mask would give great defence, but his speed would
be far too slow. He wasn't even going to consider the Deku scrub mask. Dark link will hack him
to pieces.
"Link!" Saria shouted across to him. "Try a different mask!"
"What other masks do you have?" Asked Navi.
Link pulled out the stone mask.
"Yes!" Saria thought to herself. "Link told me about this mask!"
As Link put it on Saria watched unblinking, seeing him become transparent. To her eyes, Link
still appeared 'semi there.' Hopefully Dark Link was not that aware of his environment and Link
could win.
"The coward has fled again?" said Dark Link. He had only taken his eyes off for a second. Where
did he go?
Link tried to move with complete grace. He had not made a sound with his steps. He got closer
and slightly behind Dark Link, ready to use the sword.
Suddenly, Dark Link turned around and garbed the mask off his face.
"Don't appear too surprised." Dark Link laughed. "We are connected, you and me. You can not hide
behind these masks." He once more regarded the mask. Near invisibility could also be useful...
"You are losing all you masks Link," said Navi.
"I realise that!" Link replied annoyed. "Umm, thank you" He quickly added. "Can you think of anything?"
"Have you got any other spells? I think physical attacks are not going to help here."
"I thought that too." Link started to think. The giant mask would be off little use, what magic
he had he had already used up. His memory pointed him to only one last course of action. It was
one he wanted to avoid for as long as he could, but it seems he has run out of choices.
"What are you thinking Link?" Navi said in concern.
"Navi. I want you to go, and take Saria. Get as far away from here as you can," he said in a final tone.
"What?! What are you doing?!" Navi said surprised.
Link pulled out another mask. "Please Navi. This power is too intense. If I lose control... Just
go to Saria and keep a safe distance away. Please..."
"Alright Link." Navi floated towards his friends.
"So even you companions leave you." Dark Link taunted. "How does it feel? Do you feel angry? Do
you want to take it out on me?"
"Oh, I am not angry." Said Link dangerously. "You could say I am about to get fierce though."
"Another mask trick? Well don't let me stop you."
Link gave a short laugh. He felt the Fierce Deity mask in his hands. "Keep me safe..." he
thought to no one in particular. He raised the mask to his face, the voice of the infinite
powers calling and begging to be unleashed.
He could not resist.
**********************************************************************************
"We have to get out of here," Navi said to Saria and Sayl.
"Navi?" She wanted to ask where she was, but that will have to wait. Why? What's happening?"
"I think Link is about to do something very dangerous." Navi said in concern.
Saria looked at the battle zone, and saw the mask Link was about to put on. "Oh no!" She
screamed. "Quick! Move!" She shouted. They all moved as far away as possible. The Earth started
to shake, caught in the awaking of this power.
"He's using the Fierce Deity mask," Saria thought. As the earthquake subsided, the air seemed to stand still. She knew it was the calm before the storm. "I hope you know what you're doing Link..."
***********************************************************************************
Fierce Link looked upon his rival with distaste. He brought his incredibly huge sword into his
hand.
"Am I supposed to be impressed?" Dark Link said automatically, but he was already feeling...
concerned. He could feel a new power flowing now. Evil? Good? It didn't appear to be either. Or
could it be both? Either way, this fight just got a lot more interesting then he thought it
would be. Can this 'kid' be stronger then him?
"Let's find out..." Fierce Link unleashed his attack
************************************************************************************
"So what are you saying Saria?" asked Navi.
"The Fierce deity mask is Link's most powerful item. He doesn't like the power though. He told
me it felt like... it could take him over. It gives him the form of an incredible fighter. No
one has ever stood before him and lived."
"So Link may turn evil?!" Sayl said.
"Never!" Saria said. "His heart is pure. He will stay in control..." She prayed he would.
************************************************************************************
In the smouldering ashes of what was left, Fierce Link continued to battle. He hacked and
slashed at his opponent. Most people would be dead now by his sword, this individual quietly
impressed him. This was actually getting to be a lot of... fun.
Dark Link flipped away from another swing. His powers were already waning, but he would not show
weakness to this abomination. He managed to cut into the strange armour, but it only did minimal
surface damage.
"Surprised?" Fierce Link swung his sword once more, Cutting into Dark Links body.
Dark Link looked at the wound, the final realisation of his fate. But before he could even
slump, the Fierce deity smited him again with a blow to his face, knocking him back. A remote
part of him that was still conscious thought "he's even darker then you..."
Dark Link just became conscious once more to avoid another needless blow. Coughing up blood, he
did the only thing that came to his mind. "I.. I... give up"
"Good. Now hold still..." Fierce Link came forward, his sword glinting in the light.
"I... said... I give up" Dark Link said in a desperation he never thought could ever come to him.
Link felt the fierce rage burn into him. This shadow attacked him, it destroyed the Faery
village, it dared to threaten Saria! Why should he show mercy, just to let him do it again? He
raised the sword. "No!!!" Link screamed wavering just before the final blow.
************************************************************************************
The sounds of battle subsided.
"Shouldn't we get back?" Said Navi.
"Yes" said Saria. *I'm just worried about what I will see* she thought to herself. Link must
have won, he never lost. But at what cost?
Saria and the fairies returned to the clearing. Link was lying face down, the Fierce Deity mask
still in his hand.
"I guess the battle is over," said Saria as she rushed to her friend. But where was Dark Link?
************************************************************************************
"My, that was a good fight" the Mask salesman said.
"..." Link was in nothing. He floated in what he knew had to be a dream.
"For a moment, I was sure you didn't need the mask. But I guess he was too much for you."
"..." Link heard the voice but couldn't think of a response.
"Don't you have anything to say?"
Link was silent.
"Then, may I ask you something? What do you think you would have done, if I had not removed Dark
Link for you?"
"I... I don't... know." Link managed to say.
"You've killed many monsters. Shed more blood then people three times your age. Why should this
be any different?"
"They... they were all... animals....or demons... Evil, or doing someone else's bidding." said
Link. He had never taken somone in cold blood.
"So you kill them, but waiver with Dark Link. Or is it the mask that makes you hesitate? Do you
enjoy... fighting."
"NO! I HATE FIGHTING!" Link screamed.
"You hate your destiny? It is unsurprising. Dark Link was right about one thing, you are still
very young. It is not something to be ashamed of though. You make a difference with your fights,
you save kingdoms, worlds, from extinction. You should be proud" he said honestly.
"Why me?" Said Link.
"Because it can only be you Link, and no one else. My turn for a question, do you... fear, the
Fierce Deity mask?"
"Yes."
"Why?" The salesman pressed.
"It doesn't feel right. It can do nothing but destroy."
"But Link, you have it all wrong. That mask is special, it has very little power."
"Then... what?"
"It is not a mask at all. It has the power to release 'you'. The true you, your most highest
potential. Like most things of this power, it can not be destroyed. But if you do not want it,
just give it up."
"I can't give it to anyone" Link thought, defeated. "If someone else uses it, it might be
Termina all over again. It is my responsibility."
"I understand. The burden an agent of good feels, when he finds such a mask, or any such power.
We salesman are not of this world, you can give it to us for safe keeping..."
Link looked into the eyes of this stranger. "I don't trust you."
"Honesty. I like that. But believe me, it is for everyone's benefit. Time will tell what
happens... Looks like it is time for you to wake up."
"What did you do with Dark Link?" Link asked.
"His usefulness is at an end..."
"You mean you're the one that sent him? Why? What are you doing?"
"Goodbye Link... I don't know if we will meet again. But I for one hope so. I just came to wish
you luck. I plan on visiting a few more... friends of yours. I hope Saria is enjoying her new
form, by the way."
"LEAVE THEM OUT OF THIS!" Link shouted, to the disappearing face.
"May you find happiness..."
************************************************************************************
Link woke up, to see Saria standing over him. He began to get up, Saria gently helped him.
"Not so fast Link" said Saria. "Are you okay?"
Link nodded.
"Of course he's okay," said Navi. "Me and Link have taken worse then this!"
Link got up. "Dark Link..."
"What happened to him?" Asked Saria. "Did you..."
"I don't know... I remember, I was wearing the fierce Deity Mask. Him and me were fighting, and
I was winning. Then I must have blacked out...
"You... you weren't taken over, where you?" Saria said looking at the Mask. Its eyes gave an
eyrie feeling into her.
"I don't think so. Dark Link disappeared, just before I finished him. I remember, I took off the
mask. Then..." Link tried to remember, but the rest was blank. "The salesman..."
"Who?" Asked Navi.
"I think he told me something in a dream."
"I don't trust dreams" said Sayl.
"The salesman said... something. He was after... Zelda!" His eyes widened in realisation.
"What's the matter Link?" Saria asked.
"Zelda! I think he's going after her. And not just her, perhaps everyone!" Link exclaimed. How
many people had he met in his travels? Who would the Salesman go after?
"Who is this Mask Salesman? Do you mean the one at the Market place?" Navi asked confused.
"Ill explain later, we've got to hurry!"
************************************************************************************
Dark Link was unsure what happened. All he could see was that shining sword that threatened to
take his life away. All of a sudden, it was gone.
"I see you are awake. Good."
Dark Link saw the masked salesman. "You..." he coughed. "You... lied."
"Never! I told you could not lose to Link as a child." The Salesman said, maintaining his
integrity.
"That mask... he was a monster. I had no chance...," he thought.
"That is in the past. But you did what I hoped you did."
"What?"
"You took the masks... give them to me."
Dark Link laughed. "You expect me to just give them to you?"
The salesman held out the Mask of Majora. "Give them to me..." he said in a hypnotic voice. The
mask's eyes glowed red.
The shadow felt the powers that give him life now take control of him. He reached into his
interdimentional bag, and gave the two masks. "No... I want them..."
"Thank you Link." he said, taking the rabbit hood and the Stone mask.
"I am not Link..."
"No, you are his shadow. But to the masks, you are just as good as the real thing. By the way,
I'm afraid the Mask of Majora can no longer sustain your existence in this time."
"What!?" Link eyes trailed to the mask. Still, what did it matter? He was dying anyway.
Do you know what happens to all shadows?" The salesman asked.
Dark Link knew he was not going to like this.
"Either, the light comes and destroys them forever, or they remain in darkness unable to do
anything. A sad fact, but one that you are about to join. Goodbye, Dark Link."
"No!!!" Dark Link screamed.
The salesman paused for a moment, sympathy got the better of him. He brought out an organ from
nowhere. "Very well, I give you a gift... as a thank you." He played the song of healing.
Dark Link didn't want to vanish, just like all the others do. He was a shadow, a spell. But a
brilliant spell.
Then this music came.
He realised he was not alive, but it didn't matter. He existed. This music reminded him that
Link existed, and it was an honour, to be a part of his story. His legacy. A peace filled him
and touched him more then he ever thought could be possible for him. He was Evil. But he played
his role as he was meant to.
Then he vanished.
The salesman picked up the Mask of Dark Link. "My happiness has just increased. I am glad I
could help you. But now..." he put the mask in his bag. It was a shame the mask was not very
powerful, he knew it wouldn't be, since the creature didn't have much of a life of his own. All
the life force came from the Mask of Majora. Still, he was surprised at what he did get. It will
have to be tested later, to see exactly what it can do.
"I have done it. I have many masks, some have great power, others are incredibly happy.....
Yes, I know, it is time........... Saria has already been done.....Zelda..... Ruto.... Darunia...
Naburu.... he grinned. And.... Malon.... it is perfect." He regarded each of the masks.
To be continued.
*******************************************************************************************