The Light of Hope

Chapter 7

Disclaimer: Sigh. . . this gets so depressing writing this. I do not own LoZ in any way, shape, or form. Satisfied? Good!

A/N: Chapter 7. . . this is probably on of the most difficult chapters I'm going to have to write. Now, I warn you: some of you are going to hate me for this chapter, others may cheer and sing praises, some might do both, I don't know. But no matter what, KEEP READING! I promise you, it isn't as bad as it seems! I like to end on cliff hangers, so don't assume the worst. Got it? Because you never know what's going to happen next, so stay with me and don't abandon me just cause of this chapter. Now that that's out of the way, I'd sincerely like to thank you all for reviewing! Don't forget to check my bio for thank yous!

I don't like it here, Navi whispered to Zelda as Link tethered Epona to a palm tree.

The Princess looked at the fairy in surprise. Why Navi? The Spirit Temple isn't that bad you know.

Above them loomed the huge statue of a woman, a shrine the Gerudo had created. Behind the woman in the cliff wall was the Spirit Temple. The Gerudo believed that the woman was the ancient Sage who protected it. Staring up at it, Zelda had to admit that the resemblance to Nabooru was startling. Perhaps the Gerudo weren't far from the truth when they claimed that.

The fairy was quiet, resting on the young woman's shoulder. Well, for one thing, we're awfully close to Ganondorf, cause we all know that he's using the Gerudo as mind slaves. Secondly, there's something I'm gonna have to do- a choice I have to make.

Zelda became concerned, and knew it was reflected in her tone. What is it? Navi, does Link know about it?

I can't tell you, the fairy murmured, shrinking down within the folds of the Princess' gown. It's bad enough that I told you what I did. Please, don't ask anything else. And don't tell Link, she added vehemently.

I promise, she assured reluctantly.

Despite the heat, Zelda felt a chill. She knew something wasn't right, yet she knew there wasn't anything she could do about it at the moment. She bit her lip, shoving her thoughts back into the recesses of her mind as she and Link entered the Spirit Temple. It was quite within, and neither of them spoke much as they followed the path that led to the boss room.

I wish that Ganondorf had kept the peace, she said wistfully, looking around at the architecture. The Gerudo are such wonderful people. They have so much culture and wisdom that they could share with people if only they weren't mistrusted.

That's surprising, coming from you, Link remarked as they climbed the stairs. I mean, they're thieves after all. I would have thought you wouldn't like them.

Zelda stared at him in shock. Oh, they're much more than thieves Link. One thing I admire about the way they steal, is it's only from those who can afford the losses. And they never kill. That is, until the Evil King came along. She shook her blond head. I hate what's happened to them. I won't rest until they're free.

Me neither, he assured her. Then he began to grin. Did you know that I'm an official member of their group? They said I had good thieving skills, that I was the only man besides Ganondorf they respected.

Navi giggled. Is that a compliment? Yet her cheerfulness seemed forced, though Link seemed not to notice, but the Princess did.

Coming from them, yes, Zelda replied, staring down the hole that they had to jump through. The Gerudo women don't respect many men at all, so it's a great honor for Link.

Think you can make the jump? Link asked Zelda, seeing her judging the distance.

I think so, she replied breezily, stepping closer to the edge.

She jumped down first, landing catlike on her feet. Link followed her, landing just as easily and gracefully as she had done. As he straightened up, Zelda couldn't help but stare at him. She loved the way he moved, the way his blond hair fell into those deep cobalt eyes of his, the protectiveness he showed towards her, and his gentle kindness. Her heart gave an odd jerk, as it seemed to have been doing a lot these past days. What is wrong with me?she wondered to herself, giving her head a little shake as if to clear it.

Link saw Zelda watching him out of the corner of his eye, but when he looked in her direction, she quickly turned her gaze away. He was puzzled , not comprehending what was the matter with her. The young warrior took the chance to study her, drinking in the sight of her. After seven years, she seemed even more beautiful, if that were possible. Her long sun colored hair hung loosely around her face, mussed slightly, her lovely sapphire eyes avoiding his at the moment.

He realized fully then just how much he had missed her during his long exile. Zelda was kind, gentle, and perhaps the only person who could fully understand what he was going through because she herself had endured the same heartache. What would I do without her?he wondered as he rummaged through his pack, pulling out the hookshot.

Princess? Are you ready?

Link's voice startled her out of her daydreaming, and she nodded, feeling a fiant blush rise in her pale cheeks. He slipped his arm securely around her waist as he fired the hookshot at the small gate that was in the face of the statue on the other side of the room. It slid smoothly upward once they had reached it, opening to admit them into the passage that lead to the boss room. They moved through it, to the door. Link stepped forward, opening it, then both of them walked inside.

There was nothing there, nothing to suggest danger of any kind. Yet neither let their guard down, knowing all to well what that could cost them. Cautiously, they scaled the rough bricks that were on the side of the center pillar, Link first, then Zelda after. She was having difficulty climbing in her long gown, but managed in the end with some help from Link. The Hylians stood warily, eyes darting about as they moved into the center of the room. They stood back to back, so that nothing could sneak up on either of them, waiting in silence so quite that they could hear each other's heartbeats.Well, well Koume, that foolish boy is back!

Instantly the hair on the back of Link's neck rose as he recognized the voices, and with a sinking heart, realized what was to come.

Yes Kotake! And he brought the meddlesome Princess with him! another woman's voice cackled.

Show yourselves! Link shouted angrily. Who are you?He dares ask! Have you forgotten boy that we said we'd come back to huant you? Well here we are!

A bright red light followed by a blue one spiraled above their heads, becoming two old witches on broomsticks. Yet now they were pale, see through, and it seemed just as annoying.

Who are they? Zelda murmured, tensing as she followed the hags with her bright sapphire eyes. Behind her, she felt Link do the same, drawing his sword in one smooth motion.

Koume and Kotake, Navi answered. They're two old Gerudo witches, the mothers of Ganondorf. But I don't get it, how could they be back?Hohoho, very easily litte fairy! the fire witch shrilled, bobbing in front of Zelda. Isn't that right?Oh yes! the ice witch retuned with another evil laugh. Our son is someone very powerful indeed little Princess! After he broke free, he offered us the chance for revenge, and we took it gladly!He wants you badly, sneered Kotake (A/N: Sorry, I can't remember which witch is which, so forgive me if I make a mistake!), her broom end glowing red. How he dearly wants to kill you! Yet he offers us the chance to do it for him!You'll do no such thing! Link snapped angrily, positioning himself with the Mirror Shield, ready to deflect their attacks.

I wouldn't be so cocky Link, Navi whispered urgently. They never said he brought them back to life, only that he gave them the chance for revenge. Look at them Link, their ghosts!

With a sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach, Link realized that she was right. The two old witches were transparent, no more solid than a wisp of air. That's wonderful! he growled under his breath. How are we supposed to defeat them?

Yet the fairy had no time to answer, as Koume sent a beam of ice at them. Link brought up the shield barely in time to stop the attack. He pressed closer to Zelda to offer her some cover as well. The attacks kept coming at them, first fire, then ice. Link aimed the attacks back at the opposite witch, but it went right through them. They were no more substantial than the air around them.

Zelda crouched low, her eyes darting about as she took stock of the situation. Under normal circumstances she knew Link would be winning, but the witches were ghosts, not as easily gotten rid of. Slowly she rose, stepping away from Link, sending a blast of violet light at Koume. The witch screeched in pain, for Zelda's power was that of the Triforce, able to defeat anything. She focused all her attention on the fire witch who was flailing in a futile attempt to escape the magic that was succeeding in defeating her.

Link was thrown back by the force of the blast of Zelda's power, combined with the ice that had just rammed into his shield. Sitting up, he watched as Zelda continued to relentlessly attack Koume. But then he saw Kotake coming up from behind, raising her broom to attack. The Princess couldn't do anything, so focused on the other that she did not see the coming attack. His heart was clenched in terror as he realized that she was going to kill Zelda.

No! Link stood, suddenly acting by instinct. He raised his left hand, pointing it at Kotake. Instantly a blaze of golden light shot from his outstretched hand, colliding with the ice witch. She screamed in fury and pain as the magic began to disintegrate her. Koume's wails joined her sister's as Zelda's magic ate away at her as well. Both Hylians directed the magic at the Gerudo witches full force, and they were swallowed up in a fierce white light, their screams cutting off abruptly.

His hand fell in a sort of daze as he dropped to his knees, suddenly drained. Zelda rushed to his side, her arms coming around him, adding support. Are you all right? she asked, her voice worried.

I did it Zelda, I used my Triforce, but I don't know how, he answered, staring down at the mark on his hand. It was so powerful, it took all my strength.I know, she answered. That's how it is for me too. Zelda lightly brushed back his blond bangs, relief clearly written on her face. She held his head close against her chest, so grateful that he hadn't been hurt.

Just then, the portal appeared to their left. With Zelda's help, Link manage to rise to his feet, and together they walked into it. They found themselves before a torch that had a orange- gold flame, and a tall Gerudo woman who stood beside it. She bowed gracefully at the waist, her golden eyes glittering, clad in silk pants and top that rustled softly as she moved..

Princess Zelda, and Link. I am please to present you with the Flame of Spirit. Please, take it. She stepped to the side, allowing them to come near to the torch.

After the familiar ritual, Nabooru began to speak to them again. I'm afraid for my people, she stated simply, eyes flashing with anger. How dare Ganondorf do this to them, his own people?We'll free them, Link assured her, the anger in his eyes matching hers. Don't worry.Thank you. The Gerudo woman turned to Zelda, suddenly more solemn. Princess, I ask that you may make my people welcome in Hyrule once more.

Zelda inclined her head. Certainly. I would like to do nothing more. She had always admired the Gerudo, especially Nabooru, and was always happy to be in her presence. They will be welcomed, never you fear Nabooru.

Nabooru looked satisfied, but then her expression became concerned. Beware Princess. The Evil King wants you dead more than anyone else. I sense evil rising, and I fear to send you back. Her golden eyes were fearful, as if hoping they would reconsider going back.

We have to go back! Navi shrilled, suddenly seeming anxious. This is hard enough for them without you trying to stop them.

The Sage of Spirit regarded the little fairy in silence for a long moment. How did I not see. . . she suddenly muttered. She frowned, then dismissed it with a wave of her hand. Go now, but be careful, all of you.

Night had come to the desert while they had been within the Spirit Temple. Yet it was a clouded night, the moon and stars veiled, not allowed to shed any light on the world below. The wind howled, buffeting Zelda's long hair and gown. She shivered, her senses suddenly aware of danger lurking not far away.

Link. . .something draws near, she whispered fearfully.

He too had sensed it, drawing himself up right, keeping Zelda behind him. The only light came from Navi, a soft blue glow that did not spread far. Link's eyes were suddenly drawn towards the darkest part of the night, and he tensed, waiting. From the shadows stepped Gerudo women, their eyes veiled, still brainwashed. Leading them was a familiar sinister figure, his yellow eyes gleaming like a cat's in the darkness. Despite his fear, Link never hesitated, drawing his sword in one smooth motion, unaware of anything except the enemies in front of him.

Ganondorf smirked, gesturing to the women who stood behind him. They rushed forward, swords drawn to meet Link. He hesitated for only a second before bringing his blade up to meet the ones that assaulted him. It hurt him to be fighting them when they clearly weren't in control of their own actions, but there was little he could do. He whipped around, blocking the attack of a petite Gerudo, shoving her backwards where she fell with a grunt.

Unnoticed by Link, the Evil King stepped around the battle to where the Princess stood as if carved from marble. Her eyes were fearful, but her mouth was set in determination as she braced herself for him. Ganondorf smirked, a light glowing from his fist. A dark sword appeared in his hand as he bared down on the girl.

You could always surrender to me now Princess and live.

The sound of his cold voice sent shivers of terror down her spine, but she did not back down, standing firm. A light came from her own hand as a slender silvery blade appeared in her trembling hand. She raised it, ready for the attack she knew would come. I'm supposed to believe that you would let me live after all the trouble I've caused you?

He chuckled sinisterly, starting to circle her. You are too meddlesome for your own good Zelda. It is because of you that hope remains in the land. Once you are dead, the hope will fade from the hearts of your pathetic subjects!

With a roar, he sung his dark sword at her. Zelda just barely managed to bring her sword up in time to meet it, nearly buckling from the force of his blow. Ganondorf attacked again, and once again she blocked it, this time attacking back as fast as she could. Yet he was just as quick, holding off her thrust as if it were nothing. He made to jab at her, and she danced nimbly backwards to avoid it. Her breathing was heaving, her eyes filled with fear.

She had known from the moment he had turned to her that she was no match for him. She never had been, and doubted that she ever would be. For the briefest of seconds, she cursed her father for never allowing her proper sword fighting instruction. Though Link was nearby, he was engaged with his own fight and could not help her now. Zelda had to face the storm of evil alone.

We-have- to find a way- to free them, Link grunted to Navi, ducking under a swing, hearing the blade whistle over his head.

With a particularly tricky move, he disarmed another Gerudo, flinging her out of his way. He was fighting to disarm only, but couldn't keep doing it. Someone was going to get hurt eventually, and he was willing to bet it would be him. He saw a flash of violet light from the corner of his eye. Zelda! He realized, but was once more forced to fight yet another Gerudo woman.

Try using the Triforce again! Navi cried in his ear as he dodged another assault.

Sure, right, he thought bitterly, gritting his teeth. Summoning all of the courage he could muster, Link reached deep down inside of himself for the strange spark of power he had felt when he had used the magic. It took much effort to find it, but he did and brought it to bear at once, his mind fixed on what he wanted to do. The magic spiraled from him of it's own accord, like a beast released from a cage. The golden magic met the Gerudo, tightening them in a web of power. They cried out, clutching their heads. Link winced as he felt his energy waning fast, praying to the goddesses that this would work.

He remembered the old tales of Farore, the goddess whose Triforce he bared. Legends claimed that she had created all life forms, creating them to uphold the law of the world that Nayru had given them. Then perhaps the Triforce of Courage can enable them to choose if they wish to uphold that law!

There was a great sound like chains shattering, and the Gerudo dropped to the ground, eyes clear once more. Yet they closed quickly as they fainted from their ordeal. But Link knew that they had been freed, some how by the power of his Triforce. From the other side of the rock, Link heard the sounds of battle, and at once remembered the Princess. With a tremendous effort, Link cut off the flow of magic, turning and running to where he had left her.

Zelda gasped, crumbling slightly underneath Ganondorf's blow, struggling to hold him off. Her sword blazed with violet light, while his glowed with a dark energy. Sparks flew each time they clashed as Princess and Evil King continued to battle. Neither was backing down, but it was apparent that Zelda was weakening rapidly. Yet she would not give in, continuing to push herself relentlessly to her limits. Ganondorf suddenly smirked, twisting his sword that was entwined with hers. The blade flew from her grasp, and she shouted, whirling to try and reclaim it. But the Evil King grabbed her wrist in a bone crushing grip, pulling her back towards him. She gasped, straining to break his grip as he hauled her closer. Zelda found herself paralyzed with fear as she stared up into his cold, merciless eyes.

Long live Princess Zelda, the hope of Hyrule! he sneered, shoving his left hand forward. It was the hand that held his blade

Link rounded the rock and let out a shout of horror. It seemed as if he was watching in slow motion as Ganodorf's sword plunged forward toward his beloved Princess. He saw Zelda's sapphire eyes widen, filling rapidly with pain. She gave a soft cry of agony, her whole body seeming to stiffen. The Evil King pulled back, letting go of her and shoving her away roughly. She stood up right for several seconds, eyes glazing over with anguish, then she collapsed to the ground in a heap, her eyes falling closed.

Tears filled his eyes, even as he shoved the thoughts away. She isn't dead! he told himself, even though he could see the blood staining the sand around her. He killed her; I'll kill him! Murderous rage filled him, and he started forward, his anger taking over him.

Yet Ganondorf reacted quickly, sending a ball of golden light slamming into him. Link was thrown back, hitting a boulder. He heard a sickening crack, and gasped in pain, dropping his sword. Link knew at once that his left arm was broken and he would probably never be able to fight again. Yet his mind was still focused on Zelda who lay so still, so very still. Gripping his arm, he tried in vain to get up to go to her, but fell back as the pain engulfed him.

How pathetic, Ganondorf declared softly, starting towards them. I knew that it was mear chance that you defeated me before. Now I shall kill you, as I should have done long ago!

Link braced himself for the blow, but it never came. Out of nowhere, a tiny ball of blue light shot between the Evil King and the two injured Hylians. Navi faced Ganondorf alone, seeming tiny and fragile against his evil might.

Get out of my way fairy! he growled, advancing on her menacingly.

If you try and touch them you'll regret it! Navi shouted fiercely, her tiny wings beating the air rapidly.

Fine then, you first! the Evil King snarled, his blade flashing down towards her.

Link yelled in terror at the sight of his tiny fairy partner about to be destroyed.

As the dark blade descended, a brillant flash of white-blue light flared from Navi, forcing Link to shield his eyes. When the light faded, Link felt his jaw drop in awe. Is that-?

Ganondorf's blade had been stopped, a staff made of white wood holding it back from destroying the incredible person who held it. It was a tall woman, with silvery blue hair that fell gracefully to the ground, a pair of transparent wings, and flashing sapphire eyes. Unnaturally tall, clad all in silver and blue, Navi was not the same fairy Link had known and loved.

With a hiss of rage, Ganondrof drew back, glaring at her with intense hate in his eyes. I should have known that the Great Deku Tree would send no less than the Great Fairy to guide the Hero of Time! he spat angrily. For that is who you are, Naviara, leader of the fairies!

Leader of the fairies!?! My whining bossy fairy partner is the leader of the fairies?!?! Link thought in a shocked daze. How can that be?

Navi's eyes flashed with a blue fire, holding her staff ready in one hand. She was the perfect picture of grace, her long silvery blue hair billowing around her, the light that seemed to emit from her illuminating the area.I warn you, if you try and harm these two any further you shall pay!Empty threat! he hurled back, once more lifting his dark sword to challenge her. You're power is no match for mine Naviara!Perhaps it is not, she agreed, her once annoying little voice now musical and deep. But nevertheless I will punish you if you try!

Ganondorf lunged at Navi, and she brought her staff up to meet his attack. They strained against each other, her light warring against his darkness. Even though he had claimed that she was no match for him, he seemed to be having difficulties with her. Navi suddenly began to chant under her breath, her body suddenly glowing with a white hot light. The Evil King snarled in fury, but it was too late. A light like white fire came from the fairy as she seemed to explode, the intense glow consuming both the fairy and the Gerudo man. For a moment they were visible in the light, then everything seemed to be sucked together and the light, Ganondorf, and Navi vanished.

There was silence and darkness in the desert, once more, except for the mournful sigh of the wind and the soft sobs of a person in despair.

Please, not Navi, Link whispered, staring at the area where his beloved fairy had been and was no more.