Chapter 16 – Salvation or Damnation
Proxi appeared with her companions on a rough-hewn road among high canyon. They walked.
"What is this place?" asked Luda.
"No, idea." said Link.
"This is Howling Canyon. Everyone passes by to get to Uzu."
"Uzu?" wondered Colin.
"Uzu is a walled city which consists of a temple where a cult worships Majora's Wrath."
They climbed up the rocky stairs and emerged from the Howling Canyon near an entrance of a large black city with bits of red glow. It was located in an upland valley after Howling Canyon. Statues of Majora's Wrath adorned either sides of the road.
Uzu was a walled city with its inner courts and walls which gleamed insidious red. It was a walled city of black marble built on a high shelf of rock. Within the walls, there were black houses and an outsized black temple with a large silver dome. This area was swarmed by twilit messengers.
"Goodness, this place is conquered." remarked Aryll.
"We cannot risk getting in there." said Luda.
"Luda, I can sense something in the Light World." Proxi alerted.
"What is it?"
"The zoras are outnumbered."
"What?"
"Gerudo Pirates are advancing and there are two zoras left."
"Then let's make haste." Luda agreed.
"I'll take you and Aryll there. Aryll and you will help the zoras." said Proxi.
"We need a distraction or something." said Colin.
"Listen, I took down greater numbers than this. Aryll, you have the Tri-Force of courage like me."
"Huh?"
Link reasoned to have their courage reach the highest peak.
"We all put our faith in the goddesses and if this falter, what do you think will happen? Don't forget, they trust us to fight for Hyrule and for this realm too! Termina and Lorule are destroyed. We are not letting another realm fall into the hands of these invaders. I've been into this realm with Midna. It was suicidal, but someone had to do it. And we are saving Princess Zelda who is barred inside this city. So, who is with me?"
All of them cheered. Proxi disappeared with Aryll and Luda.
In Valran, Midna and Link in purple led the others to the prison complex where Veran's forces took over. Talo had something in mind.
"My goodness, what if we try and get back to Ordon Village?"
"Huh, you know we can't risk that." said Beth.
"Would you rather stay with the one with the bossy attitude?" Talo teased Beth.
"No way."
"Or maybe, you and I could be together."
"Talo, there is no time for this."
"Or how about you a zora princess can enjoy in my company?"
"That's it! You asked for it."
Beth was about to beat Talo who protested until she was stopped by Link in blue.
"Listen, we are not to fight each other. We are on a mission."
"Really? Why are you talking too much when…" asked Link in red.
"You can just get lost!" shouted Link in blue.
The Links again started a brawl among themselves. Beth did not expect this.
"What's with the Links?"
"They just fight among themselves for every little reason." said Romani.
"Were they always like this?" asked Beth.
"Who knows?" said Romani.
Midna used telekinesis powers to break up this fight. "What's with you? We're at war and do you think we have time for this?"
At the same time, they were beset by twilit messengers such as Link faced during the Era of Twilight.
They were enough to deal with without reinforcements making life difficult. Romani fired her arrow and finished it fast. Now the others were alerted but they had confidence in their abilities. Midna had her shadow wolf moved swiftly, drawing the clumsy brutes around the prison entrance, skirting scattered pots and baskets then lunging forward, slashing them as they fumbled about. The Links, Talo and Beth fought with tenacity. With persistence they vanquished the heathen horde.
They rushed inside and saw a large hall of cell doors lined up. At the opposite of the entrance was another doorway.
It threatened at this moment to become a torture chamber: tall and more arduous twilight creatures in black hoods with hefty axes. They had no time for endless combat without profit. As they remembered Midna's goals, they'd rather hurry and deal with these invaders. They had no right to violate everywhere in the Twilight Realm.
Midna noticed someone familiar who was imprisoned along with the others.
"Ibun."
"Your highness, how did you get here?" asked Ibun.
"I was going to ask you the same."
"Veran has taken over along with the sorceress who cursed you."
"Where is Una? Where is Lana?" asked Midna.
"Upstairs, your highness."
"Don't worry, Ibun. You can count on me." Link in purple assured.
"Link? Why are you in purple?"
"Sorry, I'm Link too." said Link in red.
"I am Link too." said Link in blue.
"How many of you Links are their? Where is the real one?" asked Ibun.
"Not far, he's on his way to find Zelda. I will do this for all of you as I am in love with her highness."
"What are you talking about? I should be in love with her." said Link in blue.
"Well, excuse me. I had the courage to say this while you waited for the last minute." said Link in red.
"Get lost!"
Another brawl between them restarted whenever they argued. Beth and Romani sighed in frustration. Their brawl inadvertently broke pots full of yellow and blue gems.
Link in blue punched Link in purple to which made him use his clawshot to stop him from getting the gems. Link in red was so eager to snatch while Link in purple pushed him aside and raced to get it. Both Link in red and Link in blue tackled the one in purple. Link in blue picked up Link in red and threw him aside, while Link in purple
"What's with them?" asked Ibun.
"They always act like this whenever something goes wrong between them." explained Midna.
"Is that right? This is not a civil war."
"Indeed it is not."
Inside the cells were: all the twili as well as Yorinu. A female twili with four arms and a set of moth-like wings approached Midna and her allies. She had red hair usually worn in a bun. Her skin was very pale and her eyes were yellow-red and developed pupils rather than being empty black voids.
"Morsheen, I have to do this." Midna was shocked.
"What is it you have to do exactly? You have sided with those who assaulted the Twilight Realm."
"Someone must be redeemed or else we won't be any different compared to your allies."
"Redeemed? I spread the worship of Majora who has returned. Veran and I got rid of the twilight kings, helped you ascend to the throne and even had the Royal Family under custody." Morsheen reminded her.
"I understand, but we cannot let our realm be taken by any traitors like Veran." said Midna.
"Traitors? We are protecting this realm!" Morsheen's tone was shifted from reasoning to arrogance.
"Your form of protecting this realm is by bringing Majora's Wrath who is causing destruction to the Light Realm and ours. This should be at its closing stages." Midna challenged.
"I will take the throne away from you!"
Morsheen challenged Midna who had her shadow wolf ready. As they stepped in, Midna signalled them to back off. Link in purple stepped next her.
"If I love you so much, I will help."
"Very well, the rest of you, go and free the prisoners! Lana and Una are on the second level." urged Midna.
Proxi appeared.
"Beth, Talo, Link in red, Romani; all the guards of Ordon need you right away. I will get you there."
"But…"
Before Talo could speak, Proxi disappeared and transported the three back to Ordon Village.
The shadow wolf charged to attack Morsheen. The shadow wolf was afire with the Tri-Force of strength, and with bared teeth and sharp claws might prove every bit as deadly as Link who was once transformed into a wolf. Morsheen knocked it aside, with its blood-chilling screech. It stood square and opened its maw. It glowed with the fire of the Tri-Force blessed by Goddess Din, and a sucking wind whistled out, that drew a ball of sol from her staff.
Morsheen leapt over and battered the creature to the ground. Link in purple blocked the incoming blow. There lay his best hope of challenging his enemy. The shadow wolf fired the sol orb at Morsheen.
In the Ocean Realm, the zora infantries, bigocto riders, blade-masters and mages with their cannons under guidance of Aydia fought against the corrupted zoras, geozards, craniocs and gyorgs. The mermaids also helped the zoras in the fight.
Ralis and Aydia swam for the surface and spotted enemy ships with Gerudo flags.
"What are they?" asked Aydia.
"Gerudo Pirates. They are here to attack Lake Hylia."
Among the red hooded Gerudo Pirates were the corrupted zoras too. Ralis and the general who once served Queen Rutela went on the shore of Lost at Sea Station and used the Mage Cannons and fired electric currents at the Gerudo Pirates' ships. Knowing they were outnumbered. Three or four ships were destroyed while the five made it to Lost at Sea Station.
The Gerudo Pirates and corrupt zoras poured from their ships. Ralis and Aydia drew their swords.
"For the Zora and for my mother Queen Rutela." cried Ralis.
There seemed too many to repel with finesse. Aydia swung her sword viciously, hacking and slicing as each brute came close. She kept up a steady slash. Ralis cut through the corrupt zoras without effort, and soon the enemies were vanquished. Even so, yet more arrived, and the duo were surrounded once again. Combat was fruitless with the objective overlooked. Ralis vomited water, washing away the Gerudo Pirates. Aydia fired her mage arrows at the water, causing electricity to defeat them. Still what difference did it make?
With a terrible roar, the axe man rallied, blood oozing from wounds as he leapt through the air towards the zora prince, set to bring down its mighty weapon on the head of its twin's assassin. At the moment of the fatal blow that Ralis and Aydia had not strength to avoid, a green glowing arrow struck out and toppled the brute backwards, this time to oblivion. The axe crashed to the stone close by Aydia's head. The zoras looked about in wonder.
Luda and Aryll arrived.
"Sorry for being late." said Aryll.
"On the contrary, you came at the right time." said Ralis.
"Ra… I mean your highness." Luda called out.
"Luda, I knew we'd meet again."
"Kakariko was isolated while all of you were gone."
"I know, I'm sorry. On the plus side, Kakariko is full of new friends."
"Who is she?" asked Aryll.
"That's Aydia, my childhood friend and general who once served my mother."
They exchanged bows at each other. Aryll and Luda were surprised when they were met by a Lokomo.
"Do not be afraid!" he assured.
"Who are you?" asked Luda.
"I am Carben, Guardian of the Ocean Realm. I was sent by Anjean."
"I am Luda, my father is a shaman of Kakariko."
"I am Aryll. Link is my big brother." said Aryll
Carben turned to Aryll. "Ah, you're Link's sister. Your brother did a great job at defeating the Demon King Malladus while we helped at maintaining the Spirit Tracks. Where is Link?"
"He's in the Twilight Realm, helping some old friends of his."
"The Twilight Realm? Something is not right. I think Malladus has returned."
"Who is Malladus?"
"Malladus was the Demon King who was responsible for the Spirit War. This battle requires the Bow of Light which is used to subdue him."
"Where can we find the Bow of Light?" asked Aryll.
"Your brother has it!" said Carben. "Give me your crossbow and open the chest over there!"
Carben blew his flute on the crossbow. They spotted a chest on the beach and she opened it. Carben urged.
"Put on the Golden Gauntlets and the blue mail, Aryll!" The Lokomo of the Ocean Realm handed Aryll her crossbow.
"Here is the Ordon Crossbow! From what I see, it is blessed by Goddess Farore so it doesn't need enhancing. It can separate the spirit from the body the same as the Bow of Light. Luda, you too can wear this blue mail. Your bow works the same way as the Bow of Light, but yours is Bow of Purity, blessed by Goddess Din."
"Lokomo Sword." Carben's eyes were widened in shock. "How did you come to hold it?"
"Big brother gave it to me, just as he defeated the Demon King." said Aryll.
"I see, so he sticks to his Master Sword."
"Big brother trained me on how to fight like him. His Master Sword is blessed by Goddess Farore."
Without other recourse, she took the suggestion and put them on. She wore her blue mail over her Ordonian outfit. Luda did the same. The four shouted together before heading to battle.
"For peace in Hyrule and for faith in the Goddesses!"
The Gerudo Pirates and corrupt zoras swarmed to assault them. Aryll used her crossbow and fired at the enemies. She also spun her Lokomo Sword just like her brother's classic Spin Attack. Luda kept up rapid fire. Ralis and Aydia help fighting the enemies. Luda took out her sword and cut through her enemies. Aryll spotted a chest on the beach and she opened it.
In Ordon Village, all the Ordonian Militiamen, rangers and Mayor Bo discussed about protecting this province.
"So, you're saying places like: Malcove, Ordonafawn, Eldara and Larusl are conquered by statues of Majora's Wrath." said Mayor Bo.
"Precisely." said a ranger.
"You know we are the only ones still standing." reminded Mayor Bo.
"We cannot let our village be teemed by these enemies. I wonder where Link, Aryll and Colin are." said an Ordonian militiaman.
"Aren't you forgetting something?"
"What?"
"Annara, our candidate defended Ordon Village when the blins took away our children and Link. All we have to do is…"
A girl with green hair in green breastplate and leather bindings stood near the entrance of Mayor Bo's house.
"The invasion is starting." she warned.
"We'll discuss this later, for now prepare to defend our village!" urged Mayor Bo.
"What about Ilia?" asked an Ordonian militiaman.
"She's blackout."
"Oh well, let's go! Send out goat lords to Ordonfawna! Annara get your rangers to surprise the enemies in Eldara!"
Darbus and the gorons arrived in Ordon Village.
"Sorry, we're late! Reinforcements are here. How do you feel?"
"We wouldn't expect you at a later time, Darbus."
"Gah hahaha, don't want to see your habitats get burnt." said Darbus casually.
"Alright, boys, lets help secure the Ordon villages! Gorons, humans of Ordon say it with me!"
All the Gorons and Ordonians shouted together.
"For peace in Hyrule and for faith in the Goddesses!"
"Why are we saying that?" asked Annara.
"This is the motto for our faction called Syeuzbinsila. You will know it as the Hyrule Resistance or Allied Force." explained Dangoro. "Godan and the others are in Death Mountains, busy dealing with the invaders."
"Brother Darbus." called out a goron. "Militron had Majora's statues to start decimating Ordon."
"What?"
"Alright, Bo, go and get the others to destroy the iron knuckles and Little human's clones while we go and destroy the statues." urged Darbus.
"Biggoron and I will go and help these humans with the iron knuckles and the darknuts in Eldara." said Dangoro.
"Do what you have to do, Dangoro. Remember these humans are depending on us!" reminded Darbus.
Darbus, his gorons and Ordonians headed to Ordonfawna. Dangoro and Biggoron led the gorons to Eldara. The village was found on the coastal Ordona Rifts. The statues of Majora's Wrath marched towards the gorons.
In the village of Eldara, The gorons and the Ordonians charged against the iron knuckles, Dark Link clones and Majora's statues. Majora's statues fired laser beams at the Ordonians who held the shields up. The gorons punched and smashed the statues. Mayor Bo killed one or two Dark Link clones. Dangoro jumped high into the air and came down crashing on the iron knuckles. Biggoron took the iron knuckle's mace and smashed them with it.
In Malcove, Annara fired her arrows at the Dark Link clones while Darbus and the gorons smashed Majora's statues. Majora's statues fired balls of lightning, decimating the Ordonian militiamen until Darbus smashed their heads. Link in red, Beth, Talo and Romani appeared with a kick to the Dark Link clones.
"Surprise. I guess you didn't expect this from us, Annara, Darbus." said Link in red.
"You're Link. Mayor Bo must have talked about you. But, why are you in red?" asked Annara.
"Never mind this!" he broke off.
"You're not the tiny human I met before. What are you?" Darbus noticed Link.
"He is a clone of the real Link who is busy rescuing a princess in the Twilight Realm." said Romani.
Beth, Romani and Talo took out their swords and handled the enemies. Link in red destroyed Majora's Statues by taking an iron knuckle's ball and chain.
"What happened to Ilia?" asked Beth.
"She's incapacitated. We'll talk about this later."
In the northwest of the Twilight Realm, in the city of Uzu, Link and Colin fought the twilit messengers and shadow bloats which Link met in Lake Hylia, during the Era of Twilight.
"What are those?" asked Colin.
"The same insects I faced in Lake Hylia." said Link.
Link used his Master Sword and fired a huge wave of green energy and vapourised them. With the area cleared, Link and Colin made explorations and marvelled due to the appearance of this city.
Each side of the garden was completely screened off by an iron fence. The massive Temple of Majora doors stood at the top of a flight of steps, but the way through was clear. Treasure and trinkets lay scattered among the ruined grounds. They entered the temple.
In moments, Dark Link clones materialised, and the shadow messengers, wanting only to cause harm, stalked them around the room. This threatened the room to be a place of sacrifice. Well, he and Colin would give it to them back in kind, and more besides. Colin employed his deadly attacks and when he had enough, Link chose to help finish the job by cleaving them asunder.
Through open doors, they came into a circular room of pillars set with lanterns. The light beam was presently directed through two of these by a familiar mirror on a pedestal. The room was open on two sides where it looked out high above cliffs.
Flaming bowls hung from every pillar to light it. On one side was a statue of Majora's Wrath. At the centre of the room was a raised stone platform, giving the appearance of an altar. On a plinth upon it rested a sword, which he sorely needed now. Yet it was surrounded by pulsating rings of light.
"Oh, no," moaned Link.
"What is it?" asked Colin.
"There are energy fields that surround the pedestal." remarked Link.
"So how are we to deal with this?"
As he suspected, if he tried to approach, he was repelled by powerful energy that radiated from the rings.
Prominently engraved on one side of this altar was the familiar symbol of the Twilight Realm. Perhaps the light beam could be directed onto it.
Link examined the floor very carefully. Yes, here again were darker areas on the patterned tiles where a pedestal might habitually stand. There were only four pedestals in the room, and their movement over the floor was restricted to two on either side. This would take only a moment to work out.
Colin first dragged one nearest the entrance, and positioned it where he could see a dark stain on the floor. With a little adjustment, Link directed the beam onto it and over to the far end of the room, where it struck one of the lanterns. This sent the beam across to another lantern and from there back into the room. Link was sure he was on the right track.
"Have you ever solved this kind of trial before?" asked Colin.
"Usually I do, but I never seen this one before." Link answered. "If I made it, I'll let you have this sword."
Now Colin swapped the other two pedestals over and placed them on their respective darkened tiles. With a little more adjustment the light beam finally struck the symbol on the altar. It glowed bright green.
The pulsing rings of the force field atop the stone plinth began to fade, and at last Colin could step up to claim his prize. The sword was heavy and strong, with a massive hooked blade bearing a twilight inscription. Colin took the weight of it and struck the ground in some satisfaction. He turned back to the crypt to teach those twilit messengers some manners.
There was too a sobering reminder for Colin that he must now proceed with care - without the items which Link have in possession, any mistake would be terminal.
They got to the area where they set about the many Twilight Creatures barring their way. In a fury, they whirled among them; moving swiftly to each and not letting any catch them in sight. A single blow from Colin's new sword was enough to snuff out each Dark Link clone one after the other!
He heard tranquil music he'd already heard elsewhere. He weaved through gossamer drapes, his footsteps echoing in the darkness. He emerged on blue-lit wooden walkways.
He found the same heart-shaped life-giving metal place. This time he ran and impaled his Master Sword eagerly to receive the restorative powers of its device. After the shock of its effect wore off, he felt his life became longer.
"Your turn, Colin. Put your sword into this hole!"
Colin did so and felt the same sensation as Link had his. The Links and Aryll felt the same result that Link and Colin had.
"Wh… what's happening?"
"You're recovering your strength, aren't you?" sighed Link.
Link and Colin rushed up the stairs. Link led Colin through a long hallway. Yet they knew well that there were others, and that these now surely threatened the Princess. They must get to her!
"Zelda?" he cried out.
"I'm here," she called back. "Where are you?"
"Stay there," he said. "I'll come to you."
In one of the curtained alcoves, they discovered an opened door. He needed to find Zelda since he knew she was nearly out of time. The next room through it was richly carpeted and scattered with cushions for lounging or other fancies. They had no time to take his rest, but ran on through heavy drapes.
They ran desperately for the entrance. In their haste to run through, the young Hylians almost pitched themselves into a deep pit where the floor had collapsed. "Wo-oa-oh!"
"Your highness!" Colin yelled.
"Hold on to me!" urged Link.
Link fired his clawshot to a lantern guttering high over the pit. Link fired his second clawshot to another and extended his swing. Here was another wall to smash through with his bombs, and still another after that. At last he joined the Princess, gasping from her efforts.
"What took you so long?" She had breath enough for impudence!
"We were on our way to you and we were delayed more than once." Colin replied. He fought and talked. "Have you been waiting long?"
Keeping healthy distance from her sometimes wayward arrows, Link and Colin set about the assortment of twilit messengers and shadow bloats that threatened the Princess. His frustrations were thus released and he almost took pleasure in the relentless combat, striking down each savage blow on a wretched target. Colin was desperate to assist.
"Where is Midna?" asked Zelda.
Midna's shadow wolf's body arched as it planted its thick paws. It slashed Morsheen with its vicious claws. The small creature used her hair to pick the Twilight Fairy who betrayed the Twilight Realm. Midna threw her aside.
"What are you doing? What have you done to Yorinu?" asked Morsheen.
"Yorinu is already happy."
"I raised as my own daughter."
"You raised her so that she can be another disciple to Majora."
"Then you're at a loss. Your adopted daughter is safe."
Midna summoned more shadow wolves from underground that prowled to greet her there. Morsheen fired purple energy balls to subdue the creations. She also used telekinesis powers to lift Midna and throw her on the ground. The cursed being fired needles from her hair which Morsheen avoided and kicked her from behind. The shadow wolf tackled her, sending her reeling. She had a small advantage and got on the shadow wolf's back. A bright energy ball destroyed Morsheen. Midna and Link in purple turned to see their ally who saved them.
"How does it feel to be saved by us?" asked Lana.
"Thank you, Lana." said Midna.
Behind Lana were: Yorinu, Agitha, Una, Ibun, the forces of twilight and a girl with orange hair in a same outfit as Irene albeit black.
"Irene, what's going on?" asked the sorceress apprentice.
"This is an unexpected event, Iris. We are at war." said Irene.
"Who are you?" asked Iris.
"Don't you remember me? I am Lana Valashi."
"Lana Valashi?" Iris pondered and later remembered. "Oh yes, we used to train as sorceresses together. I am rather an apprentice." said Iris.
"How did you complete all the trainings?" asked Irene. "My grandmother must have made you certified."
"She did. Your grandmother trained me since my youth. But she noticed that I showed greater potential. She saw I have vast knowledge of magic and monsters."
"And what happened next?" asked Iris.
Lana explained while remembering her lifetime.
"I will not forget that day that I became a member of the Order of the Wizzrobe as First Mage before the Spirit War. I was tasked by the Wizzrobe to heal anyone and to guard the Tri-Force. But, what you all don't know about the Wizzrobes is that they have been known to side with powerful armies, the most notable case being an alliance with Ganondorf. The Wizzrobes were once very humble and charitable, wandering around in pairs and healing the sick until Majora's Wrath and Ganondorf used them to their advantages. I saw Link in love with Zelda when I should. The Wizzrobe rewarded me with a staff. Suddenly, I felt a heated sensation. I started suffering from horrific burns and my hair became white."
"So that's where you were. No wonder we didn't see you. You still look the same." said Irene.
"How did you end up here, Iris?" asked Agitha.
"When I was practicing my magic in a desolate Hidden Village with Impaz, I was suddenly captured by Dark Link. Now that I heard he's killed by Zelda."
"Just the opposite." corrected Lana. "Originally, Zelda had a fight with Dark Link who was forcing her to marry him until the goddesses banished him."
"Right. I maybe capable of using magic, but I have yet to memorise the spells and cannot do so without my magic book." lamented Iris.
"Your highness," said Yorinu. "We brought with us: the twili infantries, twili sorceresses, sol nurses, repentant and Bonemold Monks. With these forces, we will ensure that…"
"Hold on!" Link in purple called out. "What do you mean repentant?"
"The Repentant are Twili who have begun to embrace the Light World and have turned their back on Twili culture and the heritage of the Dark Interlopers, going as far as to spend extended periods of time in Hyrule's sunlight to burn their skin. Armed with a machete and shield, these fearsome warriors feel little pain as they confront their enemies in battle." explained Una.
"And sol nurses?"
"Keepers and masters of the Sols found in the Realm of Twilight, these Nurses grow and nurture the mysterious orbs that power Twili society. With their unique knowledge they have been able to wield and use Sols in battle as ranged explosives and burning weaponry in melee." explained Yorinu. "My weapon is made out of sol just as Ibun's Mirror is made out of sol."
"Bonemold Monks?"
"They are descendants of the Sheikah who where banished with the Interlopers, the Bonemold Monks are all that is left of their heritage. Like the Sheikah their ancestors once were, these Twili have done their best to keep their bloodline pure and have several traits all other Twili lack. They also have taken the Sheikah traditions to an extreme in order to survive in the hostile Realm of Twilight: a Bonemold Monk worships the goddess Nayru." explained Ibun.
"Thanks for explaining. Let's go and fight Cia for transforming her majesty into this… thing!" urged Link in purple.
"Where shall we find Cia?" asked Una.
"Wait! My shadow wolf is onto something."
The shadow wolf caught the scent of Cia.
"My shadow wolf found Cia in the Palace of Twilight. I will prepare to transport us all to the Palace of Twilight!" said Midna.
"And one more thing, we noticed three humans from the World of Light. One of them is a princess. They are fighting the enemies in Uzu." spotted a twili sorceress.
"Link, Colin, Zelda." Midna realised. "This gives us all hope."
Everyone raised their weapons to the twilight sky and shouted the Syeuzbinsila's motto.
"For peace in Hyrule and for faith in the Goddesses!"
Midna created a portal to warp them to the Palace of Twilight which was overrun by Cia's ReDead knights, plague-bearers and Dark Link clones.
"Agitha, Iris, Irene, Lana, go to the east first and capture the upper and lower levels of the palace!"
Cia's forces prepared to counterattack as they advanced towards the Palace of Twilight while Yuga and Lady Middee fiercely guarded the Plaza.
Irene and Lana fought the ReDead and Dark Link clones. Lana created ethereal cubes and lunged through the hordes. She shattered them at will, causing shards to harm them.
Irene was able to turn the creatures to stone, allowing time to fend off other attackers or finish them then by having Lana cleaving in two. Should she leave the frozen enemies a few moments, drifting helplessly to the ground, Lana might bring up a Great Deku Tree to swallow them.
Iris practiced facing the plague bearers and leaping towards them, jumping over and leaving them bent in confusion. As she came to land, she slashed across their helpless bodies, knocking them to the ground, where she could move in and handled the flesh-eating beetles coming out of their bellies.
"Ehehehe, these bugs are invited to my kingdom."
"Are you deluded? These bugs are not for collecting." shouted Iris.
"Are they not?" Agitha became surprised.
"No, they are flesh-eating bugs."
"Oh, why am I not getting them?"
"You seem to have an obsession with bugs." remarked Iris.
Iris recited her incantation.
"Vamakuma daza nosapana… Kudarigyo- Time to conjure… Firestorm!"
The plagues were burnt by a large scale firestorm.
"Why?" asked Agitha.
"These bugs are not for your collection." Iris tried to reason.
At this rate, Agitha's eyes became red.
"Agitha, what's going on?" asked Iris.
"These bugs are mine." her voice sounded possessed.
"Your eyes are red? What is the meaning of this?"
Agitha's clothing became black.
"Watch out! Another enemy is using Will Materialisation to possess Agitha." warned Proxi.
"Who are you? And what is Will Materialisation?" asked Iris.
"I am Proxi, a companion of Link who can sense anything. Ganondorf is using her grief to his advantage. Ganondorf is controlling her remotely. Don't let that happen!"
After the capture the first eastern keep, Majora's Wrath gave command.
"Have the palace bridges cut off!"
The stone bridges were immediately demolished by Yuga, leaving behind rubble and preventing the Syeuzbinsila from leaving the palace. Midna however encouraged.
"Lana, stay focused and capture the other Keep."
"Midna, I'm sensing one of our allies is being possessed and is attacking Iris." warned Lana.
"What?"
After capturing the last Keep, Lana obtained the Hookshot, allowing her to propel herself over the broken bridges. With the Keep's gate still unable to open, the Syeuzbinsila were forced to backtrack.
"Stand firm! Do not waver! We are doing this for our heroes and Princess Zelda." urged the Syeuzbinsila captain.
Just as the Syeuzbinsila conquer the Keeps, Majora's Wrath sent a gigantic statue of Majora's Wrath outside to attack the battlefield. It immediately began to advance towards the West Square Keep, which fell to the statues sol attacks. With the Keep fallen, the Statue of Majora's Wrath began to attack the Allied Base from afar by raining sols. The Syeuzbinsila faction immediately took notice that Statue of Majora's Wrath trampled on the Hyrulean Forces.
Midna exclaimed.
"Twili sorceresses, Sol nurses, use your magic to damage the Statue of Majora's Wrath."
Irene and Lana volunteered to create Magic Circle in the Keep beneath it, and told the Syeuzbinsila to reclaim the West Square Keep so the Magic Circle can be made. Agitha who was possessed attacked Iris.
"Agitha, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to upset you."
"You killed my bugs? Apology is not accepted." roared the possessed Agitha.
Agitha summoned red spiritual stick insects at Iris who countered with her wind powers.
"Vamakuma daza nosapana… Iskamozitiki - Time to conjure… Wind dome!"
A large dome of wind blew the stick insects.
"Agitha, try and understand!"
"No more words, girl! Let's finish this!"
Agitha unleashed red spiritual rhino beetles towards Iris.
"Vamakuma daza nosapana… Xomsev Kilat Orule- Time to conjure… Lightning Shattering Roof!"
Lightning from the sky came down and destroyed them, further enraging her. Agitha charged towards Iris who recited more words in unknown language.
"Aalgo panahonhiyianglo medirinua robsanyong – Torkudloukleng – Oh goddesses, help me purify her – Lifting Veil!"
Iris fired a green energy ball towards the possessed Agitha. The energy ball caused her to flash from black and normal colour and her eyes returned to normal.
Eventually Lana recaptured the West Square Keep, allowing Midna to create the Magic Circle there. The Magic Circle summoned magical chains that bind around Statue of Majora's Wrath; however the statue broke free of them and continued decimating them. The sol nurses fired their sol projectiles at the statue, partially damaging it. The twili sorceresses unleashed lightning which the statue absorbed it.
After killing every last invader of the Twilight Realm, Zelda was confronted by an exact replica, albeit a black version with white hair and red eyes with fiery designs across her body.
"Welcome. Now what do you think of your successor of the throne?"
"What are you?"
"I am… well let's say sister." said Zelda's clone.
"You may have my shape, but you're a creation." Zelda noticed.
"Oh sister, you don't understand a thing, do you?" mocked Zelda's clone.
"I am not your sister. You don't have the Tri-Force, but a Gerudo symbol instead."
"So you want to deny me the throne? We shall see. Let's engage in Mortal Combat!"
Zelda's clone brandished a red-glowing Naykilish in each velvet-gloved hand. As the princess stood in awe she ceremoniously laid into her implacable enemy.
Creation of Ganon or not, this creature was expert with swords. Naykilish flashed cruelly as Zelda held up her weapon to block. She found very quickly that force would not be enough; she must use speed and agility to counter Zelda's clone quick attack. Blows came in rapid volleys; she turned to deliver slashes behind and from above. The sly mistress laughed with glee as she was aiming to rule Hyrule. The princess blocked firmly and probed for weakness. Zelda's clone had a large insidious red glowing triangle appearing on the floor. She was suddenly caught in that triangle design, causing her to be stuck. A beam of red light projected upwards. Zelda judged her wounds weren't too severe.
She found she could jump over her head and strike down, and this seemed to do great damage till she sidestepped her landing. Now she seemed more circumspect, and dodged Zelda's retaliation. She moved backwards and fired her Divine arrows to launch at her, yet this seemed to have little impact. Her assault delivered a satisfactory return, and Zelda had only to ensure that she avoided the red triangle. It released the beam of red light, but this time it destroyed the domed ceiling. Masonry collapsed, causing Link and Colin to leave. They closed on one another and crossed swords again. Blades struck sparks of steel. Zelda gasped with ferocious effort. Every sinew strained against exhaustion.
Link and Colin were beset by more Dark Link clones.
"Link, there's something I want to tell you."
"Well, do tell." said Link.
Colin's thoughts were still on Luda.
"Alright, I admit. I love her. I didn't have the courage to tell her. Luda took care of me and the zora in Kakariko. I wanted to say it. I know I can. I want to be with Luda. But if Luda says she cannot, maybe I shall…" Colin started to worry.
"Wait a second; I thought Beth was with you."
"Beth is in love with the zora boy and said she wants to be part of the Zora Royal Family, possibly becoming their princess."
"Did Beth ever get to know the zora boy?" asked Link.
"She said she regretted not knowing him. Since this is the chance, she's getting."
"Listen, play it carefully! If you're willing to admit your feelings, it's time to put an end to all this fencing about and not saying what one really means. You've made it this far; it's foolish to deny what you and Luda both feel. When I get back to Ordon Village, I will craft something that she'll like."
The sky in Hyrule was pitch black without stars and the gold moon lit the grounds with its glow. On Hyrule Fields, so many bodies of the fallen enemies and warriors of Hyrule were found near the trees and the rampart. Ashei bludgeoned a Dark Link clone while another attempted to kill her until he was killed by Shad's magic. Ashei and Shad stood back to back and fought the Dark Link clones. Rusl and a darknut engaged in swordfight. A darknut skated miles away. Auru looked around to see what made it skate this far. He was delighted that the gorons led by Darunia rolled on the fields and rolled on the enemies.
Darunia danced whenever victory is achieved.
"Sorry we're late."
"Darunia, you left the mountain of fire." remarked Auru. "What's going on there?"
"Godan and the rest are in Kakariko and they are securing this village. There are some gorons and mogmas succeeded in defending Death Mountains. Kagoron is worshipping the Mountain Goddess to end this war."
"Be careful!" urged Rusl. "Goddess Din, Nayru and Farore won't just help us like this. We need to place our faiths in them."
"Princess Zelda is placing hers in the goddesses, just as Link and the Twilight Princess." said Darunia. "Darbus and the gorons are helping in Ordona Province."
"How are they doing there?" asked Rusl.
In Ordonfawna, Darbus and Dangoro destroyed the statues of Majora's Wrath. Beth took out her sword and slew the Dark Link clones. Talo and Romani fired their arrows at the enemies. Mayor Bo used his sumo tactics and threw a Dark Link clone. Biggoron smashed the lizalfos. Link in red killed the lizalfos for attacking their homeland. The goat lords and Ordon militiamen eliminated every last foe.
"We did it." cried Mayor Bo.
"We did it." cried Annara.
"We succeeded in liberating all the villages in Ordona Province. All praises to the goddesses." shouted Link in red.
"Praise be to the goddesses." they shouted to the skies.
Meanwhile, Ilia, Cremia, Forflaith and Malo came to join the party.
"Goodness, did I miss something?" she asked.
"Looks like it, Ilia." said Cremia. "There was a fight and it's over."
"I hope it is." said Forflaith. "I wonder how Big brother is doing."
"Unless your idea of fighting is getting wasted, you might need this new Ordon bow and arrows. Trust me, you need it." said Malo with a hint of sarcasm.
"Sheesh Malo, why do you always have to look so grim?" asked Cremia. "Romani, I see you are on an adventure."
"Yes, I am. What are you doing?"
"In Ordon Ranch, a friendly man told me that Ordonafawn is a great place for us where we can establish our ranch as the land is fertile. We can even get our cows to do the jobs." said Cremia.
"Sounds like a great idea." said Romani. "Link is worried about Epona."
"Epona is just fine. I asked Link if it was fine to look after her."
Cremia remembered Link's words.
"Cremia, the Spirit Tracks are built. So, I don't want to neglect Epona since she's always close to me. I am a certified train engineer and there will be a war, so I don't want to risk losing her. She is my noble horse. Look after her until our return! I gave you consent. The more you stay with her the more she'll be your friend too."
"And because of his approval, I was told to look after her and she was sad."
"No, we finally secured the villages. Thanks to all of us including the gorons, Ordon Village, Ordonfawna, Malcove, Eldara and Larusl are under control." said Mayor Bo. "The refugees from different realms that are destroyed or conquered: Termina, Tolemac and others are welcome to live there since they are abandoned."
"Ok, big man, go and rebuild this village for your friends." laughed Darbus. "They are now free to stay."
Proxi appeared.
"Link, Talo, Beth, Romani, Annara, the enemies have breached Faron Woods. They are seeking to gain access to a village. King Bulblin and his forces are outnumbered. There are refugees inside this village."
"This cannot be." said Link in red. "Proxi, get us there!"
"King Bulblin? Isn't he the one that kidnapped the kids?" asked Annara.
"He did," explained Beth "but he left us in Kakariko, I don't know why when he should have done something like bringing us to the Dark Lord or worse."
"I had a fight with King Bulblin who urged to me to fight him to the death. He begged of me to kill as he doesn't want to serve Ganon. He told me he left you in Kakariko Village so that he doesn't want to kill you. The next day, I saw him with Colin. It was because he knew he was being watched. So, he chose me to defeat him again. In Gerudo Desert, Ganon's punishment was fast approaching; his fate was in his hands that I had to push him to retreat."
"Then what happened?" asked Talo.
Link in red remembered King Bulblin's words.
"Enough. I follow the strongest side! …that is all I have ever known."
"Now, I know why he said this he follows the strongest side. In Hyrule, I defeated him and he entrusted to me the key to get to Hyrule Castle and left me to deal with Ganon. After Ganon's defeat, Goddess Farore forgave him since he never killed anyone. She helped grow back his horns and he was at peace with us Hylians."
"Why would he even be at peace with the Hylians?"
"Besides kidnapping Colin and preventing the escape of the zora boy, did he try to kill you? Did he even lay a finger on you? Was he the one who burnt the country?"
Beth and company didn't remember any of these intentions.
"I don't think so, but rather a pawn to Ganon's schemes. I misunderstood about the situation too, but good thing he didn't harm any of you. Let's not dawdle for too long!" urged Link in red.
Proxi transported Link in red and company to a hidden village in Faron Woods. The village was found among the valley and was full of wooden bridges over the misty chasm. Militron unleashed a huge fireball, burning the army of Syeuzbinsila. The armos knights and lizalfos led by Glutko and Militron killed King Bulblin's minions while the others were cornered by them. Byrne attacked the enemies with his clawed hand and a swipe of energy similar to the sword beam, or an orb of light which vapourised the enemies.
"We can no longer hold them, King Bulblin." said Byrne.
"What can we do now, besides getting cornered?" asked King Bulblin.
Kill the remaining members of Syeuzbinsila, meant either conquering this village or worse which was the mass slaughter of the refugees and the destruction of Faron Woods.
"Stand and fight of course!" called out a female voice.
Byrne and King Bulblin noticed Annara killed the lizalfos. Seeing the abyss below, Beth and company had the advantage. And armos knight attempted to kill Link in red, making him dodge and pushed it into the misty chasm. Annara, Romani and Talo fired arrows, killing the lizalfos while Link in red fired his clawshot and pulled an armos knight into nothingness. Beth avoided every blow from lizalfos and pushed it off the bridge. King Bulblin decided to assist them by using his axe and had the enemies thrown off the bridge.
The bluish-black one eyed slime creature known as Glutko came down and roared. Militron also joined in the battle too.
"Go and Kill!" urged Militron.
"With pleasure." said Glutko.
"What is that thing?" asked Romani.
"That is Ganondorf's minion." said Link in red. "All of you try and take on this thing! I'll handle the huge darknut."
"Thanks. As you saved us, we will return you the favour." said King Bulblin.
"Yeah, Anjean was right about you, Link." said Byrne.
"Who is Anjean?" asked King Bulblin.
"Shall we say a sage if that sounds better?"
"I see."
Like iron knuckles, Militron was an expert at defensive strategy, using a shield he constantly moved up or down to block Link's attacks while also attacking high and low. Link in red must also focus on defence and watch the swing of its sword and Byrne blocked accordingly with his big iron gauntlet while looking for an opening. Link in red used his Hylian shield to protect him and his former enemies in the past when fighting Militron. Link in red sensed the axe bearer closing behind, and avoided aside as its mighty weapon hammered down. Confounded by the speed of his victim, the brute struck solid stone, striking sparks; the blade drove into the ground and became stuck. King Bulblin saw his chance. He moved swiftly behind and rained blows on the stunned darknut, knocking him to the ground.
Glutko advanced menacingly over Annara and company. As Talo fired an arrow at this creature, it didn't feel anything. Romani tried the same, but did not work. Glutko swallowed Talo.
"TALO!" cried Beth and Romani.
This slime-based enemy was moulded into the shape of Talo. Annara found a solution, risky and useful at the same time. She took out a blue crystal jar to suck Glutko in. Its powers were negated by blue electricity inside it. It registered the pain inflicted by it. The crystal jar blew it out. Glutko spat Talo out. Beth and the others finished the blob off. They all moved and saw an unconscious Talo.
Link in red, King Bulblin and Byrne attacked Militron. The darknut warlord seemed unfazed by the attacks and breathed a huge wall of fire, focusing on widespread area towards the three warriors of Syeuzbinsila. Byrne and Link in red absorbed the flames and reflected it back at the attacker. Militron's armour and helmet was destroyed. This revealed to be a stern old man in chain mail. As Militron closed in from behind and suddenly loomed close, Byrne's iron gauntlet stopped the incoming attack just in time. Unlike before, Byrne held the axe. Now King Bulblin rolled behind, and paused for a fraction to get Link in blue to set the sequence. He moved nimbly as Militron launched the attack, and once more railed on the stricken Darknut who slashed furiously in the wrong direction. King Bulblin watched for Militron to rise as he kept up the assault, then moved away to have Link jumped and landed while plunging the Master Sword into his chest.
"You waste your time," Militron moaned his last dying breath. "Majora's Wrath has already decimated the Hyrule Warriors."
"We succeeded in defending Faron Province." Link in red declared.
All cheered.
"Link, Talo is…" Romani called out.
Link, Byrne and King Bulblin hurried to see how Talo is doing. Link handed King Bulblin two bottles of red potions and held the cataleptic Talo.
"King Bulblin, give this kid a drink of that potion!" urged Link in red. "The other bottle is yours and Byrne."
King Bulblin did so. Talo was awake due to the potion.
"I see you're still alive."
"Thank you, Link."
"Don't thank me! Thank King Bulblin. He and Byrne saved us."
Inside the Twilight Realm,
"Be careful," urged the Twilight Princess.
An apt moment to warn Link in purple, for here were the dragons he had quite forgot, now preparing their attack. He jumped to a wider section of arch and drew his sword. His experience with the dragons in the City in the Sky allowed him to judge the moment to strike as just after hearing their roar of attack. They swooped in only to meet the length of his Master Sword, and each collapsed in a shrieking ball of flame.
Inside the Temple of Majora, Zelda threw her evil clone back, at which moment she felt the unwelcome surge through her body that signalled Divine Zelda's return.
"No!" she moaned in agony. "Not now."
The princess sank to her knees, wracked with the blue force sweeping through her body. She arose in her godly form, white hair flowing like smoke, dark blue body laced with fiery designs, her eyes glowing white. She flicked her hair and stood as Divine Zelda once more.
Startled by this, or perhaps aware that here was a very different proposition; Zelda's Clone unleashed the triangles of light on both walls and the ground where Divine Zelda stood. They unleashed beams of red light in an attempt to eliminate Divine Zelda who was not affected by them.
As she and Zelda's Clone clashed with both Naykilish and Malkilish, levelling a nearby mountain, Zelda's Clone noted she and Divine Zelda had both reached the peak of their evolutions. Each clash destroyed the foundations of the twilight city called Uzu.
"I can bring myself to crush your sword with a single blow." shouted the wretched black figure.
When Zelda's Clone attacked, Divine Zelda stopped it with her white gloved hand. Expressing surprise, Zelda's Clone vowed.
"Don't get so excited. I will crush you with Ganondorf's power!"
Zelda's Clone recited the full incantations.
"Samoy rhawb tawm cylanu Siskamlodj! Naora Huuwtou Naora koushuka Naora gokikunui! Pakgnagatulog sasunawong! Ebighee magic! Jumpakurku Pyramid – Fear the gloominess of this setting! No escape No reasoning No resistance! Seep through darkness! Absorb in this magic! – Prison Pyramid!"
A huge red pyramid materialised from the ground and imprisoned Divine Zelda. Lightning, fire and wind attacks hardly tormented her. Divine Zelda used her Naykilish and destroyed Prison Pyramid. Zelda's Clone fired a dark version of Divine Zelda's arrows. Both fired Light Arrow and Arrow of Darkness at each other. The Light Arrow cut through the Arrow of Darkness and finally hit Zelda's Clone.
"You have saved yourself. But, don't think it's over as this war is still going on." warned Zelda's Clone. "Ganondorf's vengeance will be brought upon this world and the world of light."
Zelda's Clone disappeared into a puff of smoke.