Midna paced around the rather large tent, stopping at one end, only to circle around to the other. Although the borders of Zelda's tent were more than adequate for her to walk around, she still felt cramped and confined. She stopped at Zelda's desk; its surface messily covered with papers, and placed a hand on its surface. Had it really only been a day?
Her emotions tossed between anger and hurt and back again. Ever since Link's sudden departure, it was difficult for her to focus. Unless she could use her hatred for Zant to keep her motivated, she found her memories wandering back to her favorite moments with Link.
What happened to the days when they used to battle together against the spread of Twilight? Or the times they wandered Hyrule as wolf and imp? Though their circumstances were never easy, they had always helped each other. Why couldn't they do that now?
Finally frustrated with the constraints of the tent and the content of her own thoughts, she stormed outside into the frigid air. The icy wind nibbled at her skin, but she didn't care. She took a few deep breaths to try and calm down. As she did so, the pale radiance of the snow caught her attention. It reflected the serene beauty of the moon's reflection, drawing her attention to the sky where the celestial orb shone brilliantly overhead.
It was the same moon that had shined overhead during their many trips around Hyrule Field. It was the same moon that had lit up Ambi's garden for them. And it was the same moon that watched over Link now, wherever he was.
A surge of anger washed through her once again, clenching one of her fists tight and locking her face into a scowl. Why did Link feel the need to do everything himself? Why couldn't he accept her help? She understood that there were struggles going on inside him that she would never understand. But she wished they could help each other instead of trying to deal with their problems separately.
The tent entrance flapped open and shut, catching Midna's attention. Someone approached her from behind and placed a gentle hand on her shoulder. It was Zelda.
"If you stay out here too long, you'll catch a cold," the monarch warned. "You should come inside. The others should be here soon."
Midna's eyes scanned the spread of tents and fires set up throughout Kakariko Village. The buildings were full of women, children, and others who couldn't survive the cold. The soldiers endured the elements in small tents, often with little comfort besides a spare blanket and a warm campfire outside. Thankfully, by Hyrule's standards, this winter had been relatively mild so far.
"The scent of the perfume is too strong in that tent. I had to come out here to get a breath of fresh air," Midna said.
Zelda knew that was just an excuse. She knew what was really bothering the Twili.
"He'll be back. He's pretty good at surviving on his own."
Midna was silent. She stared out into the cold night air. The wind tugged at her cloak and gently strummed the long, red braids flowing down her neck.
"Whatever he has to do, he has to do it alone." Zelda continued. "In the meantime, we should do our part."
"Farore's wind, Zelda! I know that!" Midna snapped, spinning on her heel to face Hyrule's queen. "Just because you have the Triforce of Wisdom doesn't mean the rest of us are stupid!"
The expressionless face of a monarch came to her face almost too easily. "Very well. I won't say anymore." Zelda turned around to head back into the tent. "You can come in when you're ready."
She hadn't even taken a step when Midna caught her by the shoulder. "Zelda…I'm sorry. It's just…sometimes he can be so frustrating."
She gave a comforting smile. "Men usually are. I'm glad I don't have to deal with them."
A hint of a smile came to Midna's lips. She was eager to get off the subject of Link. "Come now…you've never had feelings for anyone? Never felt that frustration?"
Zelda's love life was one thing she was never comfortable talking about. Even if she had the courage to talk about her feelings for Link, she could never be honest with Midna.
"Of course I have, but in the grand scheme of things, it's not worth worrying about," Zelda replied.
"It sounds like you're dodging the question," Midna said.
Zelda shrugged her shoulders and took another step toward the tent entrance. "I probably am. And that's because it's a trivial question."
"If it's so trivial, then why won't you answer it?"
"Well…because…" she hesitated.
"Is what a trivial question?" Kari asked, catching both women by surprise.
"Oh…it's you, Kari." Zelda turned around to greet him, sneaking a sly smirk in Midna's direction in the process.
Midna folded her arms and scowled. "It's nothing you'd be interested in."
Kari looked from one woman to the other. "Are you sure? Sometimes the answer to a seemingly trivial question is all that's needed to release a rushing river of knowledge."
Zelda motioned inside the tent. "It'll have to wait for another time. Colin, Rishu, and Ilia are all inside. We were just waiting for you."
"What's the matter? Am I not invited to this party?" Atrayu asked casually, stepping from around the corner and approaching the trio.
Zelda had no idea how long Atrayu had been hiding there. The shifter expertly hid any indication of what she might've overheard. Zelda's hand gently felt for the tanto tucked beneath her cloak.
"Atrayu…I…I didn't know you planned on joining us," Zelda said. "To be honest, I didn't know you were still in the area. I thought you would be on your way back to Nevkah by now."
The shifter arched a brow. "And miss all the food you have stored in your tent? Even I'm not above free food when it's being offered."
Kari turned to Zelda. "She came at my request," he explained.
Zelda was at a loss for words. "Really? How? Why?" She thought of Colin. This would not go over well. She had to find a way to prevent disaster from happening.
"I'll explain once we get inside." Kari said, heading towards the door.
"But…" Zelda managed as she stepped in front of him. "Is this really a good idea?"
Midna placed a hand on Zelda's shoulder. "It'll be fine. She's not going to attack you if that's what you're worried about."
"Exactly," Atrayu smirked. "As long as you feed me, everyone should be perfectly safe."
Zelda took a deep breath and hesitantly stepped aside so Kari and the others could pass. Her eyes never left the shifter as everyone shuffled inside.
Colin, Ilia, and Rishu were already wrapped in blankets and sitting on the floor as the others filed in. They quickly found a place to sit. Zelda took a seat on her desk chair and placed her hands on her lap while the others made themselves comfortable. She watched carefully to see how they would react to Atrayu's presence. Only Colin seemed to flinch upon noticing her.
"So why did you want us all here, Kari?" Colin asked. He and Ilia sat next to each other, huddled side by side for warmth.
Kari's face brightened. He stood beside Zelda's desk. "Because I believe I've figured out who the sixth sage is."
"Sixth?" Ilia asked. "Aren't we gettin' ahead of ourselves? Don't we still need the fifth sage?"
Kari paused. "I will explain that too." He looked around the room. "But first, let me begin by saying that I've spent a large portion of my life studying the ancient texts. I've noticed that throughout time, certain themes have defined each of the sages."
"What sort of themes?" Zelda asked.
Kari nodded. "Take the Sage of Light as an example. This sage has typically been seen as the wisest sage and has often come from a position of authority."
Zelda was silent. Those attributes seemed to describe her. But what did it matter?
Kari continued. "The Forest Sage is typically associated with the themes of innocence and maturity, one cloaked with naivety but who gradually develops into a worthy sage. And of course, they usually have an affinity for the forest."
"I'm not sure that entirely fits," Midna said, folding her arms. "considering Tifa might not come back."
Kari ignored her. "The fire sage is typically someone with a strong and fiery personality. They are not afraid to state their opinion, nor do they flinch in the face of adversity once they've committed to a cause." He looked to Rishu. "The Water Sage is sometimes seen as the most eccentric of the sages, but their heart for others is equal to none. And of course, they are usually affiliated with water in some way."
Colin folded his arms. "It sounds like you're just describing the sages we already know. Even I can do that."
Kari nodded his head. "I understand that, Colin. The important thing is that these themes have been accurate thus far. Because of that, we can trust them to lead us to the remaining sages." He looked to Atrayu. "I think you will find my thoughts on this matter particularly interesting."
Atrayu stifled a yawn. "Would you just get on with it? Keep this up and it won't just be my legs falling asleep."
Kari cleared his throat. "First is the Spirit Sage, who is often associated with the theme of redemption. Of the six, they are the last person we would expect to be a sage, either because of things they've done or simply because of the environment they were raised in. Nonetheless, they find a way to fulfill their destiny."
A lump formed in Colin's throat. He knew where this was going. A few others did too because of what Mudora had told them back in Nevkah. But he wasn't sure how she would react.
Kari continued. "And this is why I brought Atrayu here. She is our Spirit Sage. The fact that she holds the Spirit Pipes and is able to use them is our proof."
Zelda and Ilia gasped, but the rest of the group merely nodded in agreement. Atrayu smirked.
"It's about time," she responded. "I was wondering when you were going to reveal our little secret."
"Wait…you already knew you were a sage?" Ilia asked. "The rest of us didn't know until we were awakened."
"I'll spare you the details, but suffice to say, I was awakened during our little excursion rescuing Link. Kari pulled a fast one on me," Atrayu replied.
"And you're willing to be a sage?" Zelda asked in astonishment. "You're willing to help us?"
Atrayu shrugged her shoulders. "The way I see it, I've always known this sort of thing could happen. My clan has guarded the Spirit Pipes for generations. I suppose it's only natural one of us would use it at some point." She looked away. "Besides, I have nothing better to do."
Midna smiled. "Glad to have you as part of the team."
Atrayu looked around the room. "Now where's the food I was promised?"
Zelda sighed and pointed towards a corner of the tent. "There's some salted meat over there in the chest."
Atrayu didn't even wait for Zelda to finish her sentence. She got up from the floor and went to help herself.
"And that just leaves the final sage: the Sage of Shadow," Kari continued, "which is the other reason why I brought you all here. I think I know who it is. This sage is often associated with extreme pain or sorrow, either by inflicting it on others or experiencing it themselves. Like a shadow itself, they are no stranger to darkness."
Colin looked up hopefully. "Is there any chance it could be me?" He grinned like a little boy. "How cool would it be to be a sage?"
Kari shook his head. "While that might be, Colin, you aren't the person I suspect." He eyed Midna. "When Link awakened with the Conch Horn, he gave it to you, Midna. You've had it ever since. And from what I understand of you and your history, would you agree that what I said about the past Shadow Sages describes you?"
The Twili shrugged her shoulders. "I guess so." She held up the Conch Horn. "But there's only one way to know for sure."
Zelda's eyes lit up. "If this works…if you are the last sage…we'll finally have woken all six sages."
Ilia looked down at the ground. "I never thought we might actually pull this off. I hope this works."
Midna smirked. "I don't want to get everyone's hopes up. What happens if Kari's wrong?"
"Then we can always have Colin try," Zelda grinned. "He seems more than willing."
Kari prepared the Wind Waker. "I am seldom wrong on matters like this."
Atrayu grunted as she chewed on a thawed chicken leg. "Someone's pretty confident."
Midna wiped the Conch Horn against her cloak and brought it to her lips. A hallow sound echoed through the tent. She coughed as she let it rest in her hands. "I have no idea how to play this thing."
Kari nodded. "Let me try conducting the Nocturne of Shadow. Perhaps that will jog your memory."
The Sheikah began conducting a low, somber melody, humming it to himself as he moved the baton to an inaudible metronome. Midna brought the Conch Horn once again to her lips and played. Atrayu put down the meat and joined in on the Spirit Pipes while Rishu chimed in with his guitar, forming a song that grabbed the attention of all those passing by the tent. Midna felt the music flow through her veins, awakening within her a knowledge she didn't know she had. The notes came to her naturally as she played on the sacred instrument. She knew Kari was right.
Slowly, the music died down and everyone looked around. They all waited for Midna with eager anticipation.
Suddenly, the entrance to the tent flapped open and in popped a familiar face.
"Hi, everyone. I'm back." Link greeted with a smile. His heavy breathing formed puffs of steam in the air. His face contorted into a puzzled expression. "What's with all the music? It sounds like a concert in here. I could hear it from across the village."
Midna couldn't help herself. Part of her had feared that Link would never come back. Part of her had worried that he would forever wander the land on a self-inflicted quest for peace. Before anyone had time to respond to his questions, the Conch Horn was on the floor and she was wrapping her arms around him and kissing him.
At least until she remembered she was still mad at him. Unfortunately for the hero, there was a glass of cold water on the nearby table. She grabbed it and poured the glass's contents onto his face and down his cloak. He shivered as the winter air made the cold liquid even more unbearable.
They all laughed as water dripped from the hero's chin. "I knew I wouldn't get off the hook that easily," he muttered. "I guess I deserve it though."
"I'm letting you get off easy," she smiled, a small tear streaking across her cheek. "Be thankful you weren't gone longer. I would've had time to think of something worse."
Link's brow arched. "If that's the case, I don't think I want to leave ever again."
Midna placed a finger beneath his chin. "That's the whole point."
Ahem! Kari cleared his throat. "Midna…did it work?"
The Twili leered at the Sheikah for a moment but then decided the conflict wasn't worth it. She was too overwhelmed with joy and relief to have Link back.
"Yes, Kari. It worked," she replied dryly. "I can feel it awake inside me."
The puzzled expression jumped back on the hero's face. "What worked? What awoke inside you?"
Atrayu smirked maliciously. "Congratulations, Link! You're a proud father!"
The hero's face turned pale. "I'm a…I'm a…I'm a what?"
The whole room, including Midna, burst into laughter at the hero's expense. Link looked worriedly at Midna, pointing to her and then to himself.
"But…I…we…never…what?"
Midna stroked his cheek with her hand to calm him. "Relax, Link. I was talking about the spirit of the sage inside me. I've awakened as the Sage of Shadow."
Link gradually let his muscles relax. "Oh…okay…what a relief." Suddenly, the significance of her words dawned on him. "Wait…you're a sage?" He looked to the others. "How many does that leave?"
Zelda smiled. "That's all of them."
Ilia's smile disappeared. "Or it would be all of them. But we're missing one."
Link's eyes brightened. "Well, I actually have someone…"
Tifa and Tatl stumbled through the door. "Link…I can't wait anymore. It's too cold outside. Can we wait inside with you?"
The hero sighed. "Well…so much for a dramatic entrance."
Ilia jumped to her feet. "Tifa! You're back!"
The Kokiri ran into the girl's arms. "Ilia!"
Zelda looked at the hero inquisitively. "How did you convince her to come back with you?"
Link and Tatl shared a knowing glance. "I brought in the help of an old friend," he replied.
Zelda tried to get him to elaborate, but the hero had other plans. There was still one other person he wanted to introduce them to. It would not be easy, but now was as good a time as ever.
When he had everyone's attention, he gestured towards the door. He took a deep breath and began. "There's one other person I'd like you to meet. Eidel, would you come inside?"
Atrayu's ears perked up. "Who?"
The older woman walked in with a disapproving frown on her face. "Link…what's this I hear about you having a baby? Why didn't you tell me I was going to be a grandparent?"
Link's cheeks reddened. "That was just a bad joke." He looked to the rest of his friends. "Everyone…this is my mother, Eidel."
Atrayu spit out her food. "She's…your mother?"
Link's mother gave the shifter a nod of affirmation. "Good to see you too, Atrayu."
Zelda stood up and gave a small curtsy. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Eidel. I am Zelda, Queen of Hyrule and first-in-command of this army."
Eidel nodded. "Ah, yes. Link has told me quite a bit about you. It's a pleasure to meet you." She evaluated her for a second. "And I'm glad to see you have more political backbone than your father."
Zelda smiled politely, unsure how to take the compliment. "The ambassador from Termina mentioned your name quite a few times during our discussions. He says you're a significant reason why they've decided to join our cause."
The older shifter shrugged her shoulders. "The attack on Clock Town woke everyone up. As they were debating what to do, I dropped a few hints that Mudora was the one to blame and that you were the only one brave enough to stand against him. They remembered all your previous warnings and pleas for help back at the Royal Council last summer and how they refused to listen. They felt ashamed and wanted to make amends for that foolishness."
Zelda bowed. "Then you have my sincere gratitude."
Link continued with the introductions, pointing to the Water Sage next. "The Zora over there with the guitar is Rishu."
Eidel's face lit up. "Ah…Rishu. While Lola took care of me, she mentioned you an awful lot. You'll have a lot of explaining to do when you get back home."
Rishu gulped. "I was afraid that might be the case."
Eidel motioned towards Midna. "And who's this lovely lady?"
The Twili grinned deviously. "I'm the woman he got pregnant. The name's Midna. It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Eidel."
Link scowled. "Do we have to keep beating that dead joke?"
Eidel ignored her son's comment. "I'm glad to see he found someone with a good sense of humor. He talks a lot about you. I can see why." She turned to Colin and Ilia. "And who are the other two?"
"These are the two I told you about. That's Colin on the left and Ilia on the right."
The middle-aged woman's eyes lit up. "So that's Bo's daughter and Uli's son? I barely even recognize them! They've both grown up so much!"
Ilia blinked a few times. "I'm sorry…but have we met?"
Eidel nodded. "We have, although you might've been too young to remember. My husband, Uziah, and I lived in Ordon for a few years before…well…before circumstances forced us to leave."
"Then why didn't you take Link with you?" Ilia asked innocently.
Link quickly cut in. "Ilia…it's fine. It's a long story that…"
"So how do you and Atrayu know each other?" Colin interrupted. He scrutinized Link's mother meticulously.
Eidel looked to Atrayu and smiled. "So you picked up on that, eh?" She looked to Link, who gave her a permissive nod. "We're both from the same country. Just like Atrayu, I'm a shifter."
Ilia, Colin, and Zelda all tensed. Colin looked at Link. "Is that why…well…you know?"
Link nodded. "Yes, Colin, it is. At least as far as I understand it." He looked into Ilia's eyes. "Ilia, the others already know, but there's something I haven't told you or any of the other Ordonians." He took a deep breath. "I'm a half-shifter. Just like Atrayu, I can transform into a wolf at will."
Ilia stared ahead blankly. Link couldn't tell if she was in shock from the revelation or if she was just having difficulty processing it all.
"So that wolf…the one that helped Talo…was that you?" she asked softly.
Link nodded. "That was me."
Ilia smiled warmly at him. "Then I don't see why you were so scared to tell me. I wish I could transform like that. Just think of the things I could say to Epona or Zephyr."
The hero's mouth dropped a bit. "Wait…you're not shocked? Or angry that I hid this from you?"
Ilia shrugged her shoulders. "Why would I be? We're good friends, but we can still have our own secrets, can't we? Besides, I've seen so many crazy things over the last few months that what you said seems relatively tame. I mean…who would've thought I'd actually learn how to use magic?"
Kari scowled at her. "You learned to use magic? When did this happen?"
Zelda grinned triumphantly. "She has me to thank for that. It seems I'm a better teacher than you are, Kari."
Kari folded his arms. "We'll see about that." He looked to Link. "While I hate to cut this reunion short, we still have a task to do, Link."
"And who do we have here?" Eidel looked at him accusingly. "I believe we still haven't met."
"You'll have to excuse him," Link said. "He's never had great manners."
"Why do I have to waste my time with that?" Kari protested. "We have important matters…"
"Do you want me to create a name for you?" Eidel asked, folding her arms and smirking. "I can think of plenty at the moment."
Rishu perked up. "I'm pretty sure I've already done that. You can call him Minish like I do."
"The name is Kari," the Sheikah said grudgingly. "Now can I finish what I have to say?"
Eidel recoiled. "Oh…you're Kari?" She looked to Link. "So he's the one..." she looked to the Sheikah again. "Ah, I see."
"Something wrong?" Kari asked.
"Nothing at all," Eidel replied. "Go ahead, Kari."
The Sheikah leered at her for a few more seconds. When it was clear she wasn't going to say anything else, he continued. "Link, now that all of the sages are together, we need to restore power to the Master Sword. Until we do, it's just another dull blade."
Link nodded and withdrew the blade. He held it out so the blue cross-guard was just above his chin and his reflection gleaned in the shine of the blade. "I'm ready," he said.
"Wait, Mister. I don't have my ocarina. Can I have it back?" Tifa protested.
Kari turned to the forest sage. He pulled the ocarina from his satchel and rubbed its polished surface one last time, as if giving away something precious. Taking a deep breath, he walked over to her and placed it in her hand. "Here you go, Tifa. It's yours again."
"Thank you, Mister." She smiled, glancing at it and then to Kari. "Were you able to return home?"
Kari smiled. "In a way I was. Either way, the ocarina belongs to you. I don't need it anymore."
"I'm glad I was able to help," Tifa giggled.
Kari nodded and returned to his original position. "There, now all the preparations are ready. Let us begin."
The Sheikah looked at each of the sages. They were finally all assembled. Each prepared the instrument or artifact that belonged to them. The wind tamer reached for his baton. It was for this moment they had journeyed so hard. Each had responded to the calling in different ways. The road hadn't been easy for any of them, yet here they all stood.
As Kari conducted them in a prayer to the goddesses to restore the Master Sword, the music of their instruments fused into a beautiful melody. The gentle twang of Rishu's guitar. The melodic whistle of Tifa's ocarina. The soft ringing of Zelda's harp. The strong call of Midna's Conch Horn. The solemn sound from Atrayu's Spirit Pipes.
The sword in Link's hand glowed divinely as the music infused it with its former power. It trembled softly in his hand as the magic once again circulated through the blade. It hummed gently until at last it let out a loud crash. A bright light inundated the tent, causing the beautiful music to stop. As Link and the others opened their eyes from the blinding light, they beheld the Master Sword.
The Blade of Evil's Bane had been restored to its former glory.
Link felt an uncomfortable tingle travel from his hand and shoot up his entire body. Although the song had finished, the blade continued glowing. He felt a strong force pushing against him. He tried to let go, but his hands were firmly glued to the hilt. Something was terribly wrong.
Suddenly, a terrible high-pitch ringing resonated through the whole tent. A surge of pain shot through Link's entire body, finally forcing the weapon from his hand. The edge of the blade stuck into the ground; still radiating a divine glow that had been absent for too long.
It felt like there was a worm moving around in Link's body. A pain so excruciating gripped his insides that all he could do was cry out and fall to the ground. His body convulsed in a seizure; his arms and legs thrashed wildly. The others gathered around him, but the cries of pain drowned out all their voices.
Link felt something rip apart inside him. His kidneys felt like they snapped in half. His lungs felt like a needle had punctured them. His stomach felt like a bomb exploded inside it. His heart felt on fire. What was happening to him?
And suddenly, after another bright flash of light, the pain was gone. For all its intensity, it only lasted a few seconds. His head pounded as he slowly opened his eyes. Everyone was gathered around him, but no one looked at him. Their eyes were glued to something else near the tent exit. The hero slowly forced himself to look at it.
That's when he saw what they were all staring at. That's when his heart stopped beating for the briefest of moments.
"Hello brother, we meet again," a sinister voice greeted him. Two crimson eyes glared at the hero in hatred. "I told you I would find a way out."
Link jumped to his feet and grabbed the Master Sword. The blade had dulled to its normal shine again. Thankfully, he still felt the weapon's familiar warmth surge through him. The power to repel evil still dwelt inside.
The power to repel evil. Link's mind honed in on those words. That same power had separated the dark energy of the wolf stone from Link's body. It had freed him from an eternity trapped as a wolf.
"Hello Dark," Link muttered bitterly. He spun the Master Sword eagerly in his wrist, itching for a fight.
Dark laughed as everyone's gaze fixated on him. "Our dance will have to wait until later, brother. Now is not the time or the place." Link scowled, drawing another laugh from the shadow. "But do not worry. When that time comes, I intend to keep the promise I made to you."
Before he could say another word, Link jump-slashed at the shadow with a cry of righteous fury. Before the blade could touch him, Dark melted into the ground and disappeared. Link's weapon caught nothing but the empty air. The hero stood and panted in frustration, still trying to recover from the ordeal his body had just endured. The pain was still fresh in his mind.
The power to repel evil. The blade could sense the darkness inside him that Mudora had awakened. And so, like the wolf stone before it, the blade had expelled it from his body. This time, it had given Dark his freedom.
"What...what was that thing?" Ilia gasped. She stared blankly at where Dark had been as her thoughts caught with her words. "For a moment, I thought that thing was Link."
Kari scrutinized where the shadow had once been. "Whatever it was…there's no trace of it now." He turned to Link. "Any idea what just happened?"
Link shrugged his shoulders. He knew exactly what it was, but he was too ashamed to admit it. "The Master Sword repels all evil. On my first journey, Zant put a curse on me that would've left me as a wolf, but it was expelled. Maybe Mudora attempted to do something similar."
Midna looked around the tent for any further sign of the shadow. "That may be it. Whatever it was, I'd feel a whole lot safer if we confirmed it was truly gone."
Zelda nodded. "I agree. Let's split up and search the camp. If you find it, get help before trying to confront it. We don't know what type of magic we're dealing with."
They did as Zelda instructed and searched the entire camp, but there was no trace of Dark Link to be found. They asked many of the soldiers and refugees if they had seen anything suspicious, but the most unusual person anyone reported was Tingle selling maps to the locals. With no trace of the shadow and no leads left to follow, they let the situation settle for the time being. Once they confirmed Link was okay, no one pressed him for further details.
Over the next few days, as preparations for the war consumed everyone else's attention, memory of the shadow's appearance slowly slid from everyone's mind but Link. He could never forget. His battle with Dark on Koholiant was still fresh in his memory. But even more so was the startling vision Dark had given him before Link had returned to the waking world. Every time the hero closed his eyes to sleep, it painted his nightmares with haunting accuracy, often forcing him several times in a night.
Link wasn't sure how much of the vision he was willing to believe, but the fact that Dark now existed in the real world made another encounter inevitable. Their blades would cross again. When that time came, he would be ready to fight to the death. He just hoped it occurred much later, sometime after Mudora's defeat.
With the arrival of Termina to bolster the ranks of the United Forces, the army, under Zelda's command, was at last ready to deploy. Kari revealed to the others that Mudora and Zant had relocated to the Tower of the Gods, a mythical and mysterious place on the border between Hyrule and Nevkah that Atrayu knew all too well. As the army mobilized, she acted as their guide.
At this time of winter, the pass from Hyrule to Nevkah would have been impossible for a single man to cross, never mind an entire army. However, the impossible hike was made possible by Ilia's newfound ability to manipulate the weather with the Rod of Seasons. Where snow and ice would have made their path impassable, she was able to temporarily manipulate the seasons to a warm breezy summer to clear the way. Even so, the hike was intense and each soldier traveled light, bringing only what was necessary. Heavy artillery and equipment were abandoned in favor of more portable weapons. The chaos infecting Hyrule the last few months had also produced a poor harvest, so even food was in short supply, barely enough for a one-way trip. Every person traveling through those mountains understood that a return trip was a luxury they might not have.
After a full two-day march, the Tower of the Gods was at last in sight just as the sun set and the stars took to the sky. The celestial structure stood tall in the snow-covered valley like a beacon of flames. The strange glow that emanated in it seemed to respond to the Northern Lights that danced in the sky above. It was truly a breath-taking sight.
Unfortunately, their enemy was ready to greet them. Thousands, perhaps even tens of thousands, of specks scurried around the tower like a hive of bees. The army protecting it, composed of Nevkah's renowned warriors mixed with Zant's own monsters, would not surrender easily. If Link and the others wanted to win this battle, it would require great sacrifice. The allied forces set up camp on one of the plateaus overlooking the valley, their own numbers swarming over the valley in a flurry of tents and campfires.
The battlefield had been set, but neither side showed any sign of initiating an attack. Zelda ordered scouts and guards posted at every corner of the camp. Although there was no unusual activity by the enemy, she refused to take any chances. With the higher ground and eyes on all sides of the camp, she would be ready if Mudora attempted to strike first.
Throughout the entire hike from Hyrule to Nevkah, Link enjoyed finally being with his friends again. Ever since his encounter with the Hero of Time, he felt like his old self again. He no longer feared the wolf; he embraced it. As a result, he was able to speak about it freely with Colin and Ilia. He was able to diffuse Midna's anger at him for leaving her behind as well. He spent as much time with her as possible whenever he could find a spare moment from the pressures of the upcoming battle. He wished the war wasn't looming over them; what he would give to live in peace and be able to settle down with her. But alas, they couldn't afford to dream of such luxuries yet.
Even Link's friendship with Kari had regained some of its normalcy. They sparred whenever the army stopped to rest, honing one another's skills to prepare for the ultimate test ahead. They exchanged pleasantries and friendly bantering whenever they passed each other in the camp. But all the while, Link could sense a hidden tension underneath it all that he was hesitant to address. Kari had something he wanted to say, but Link wasn't ready for that confrontation.
However, on the eve before battle, the hero couldn't escape the confrontation any longer. As Link was out for a stroll around the camp, the Sheikah finally caught up to him, and he wasted no time with greetings or friendly chatter.
"Link, we need to talk," Kari said sternly. He looked directly at Link.
The hero was caught off guard by the wind tamer's straightforward question. He saw the intensity in Kari's eyes and took a deep breath. He thought he knew why Kari was here, but part of him also hoped he could avoid a confrontation just a little longer.
"What do you need, Kari?" Link asked with a weak smile.
"Can we walk outside the camp? I want to prevent anyone from listening in on our conversation."
Link's heart raced faster. "If that's what you want, then I'm okay with that. What's on your mind?"
Kari's answer came like a dagger to the chest. "You know what we need to talk about. Your refusal to acknowledge it has been troubling."
A lump formed in Link's throat. His fear had been confirmed. His boots tapped anxiously against the icy ground as he thought of a response.
"I was afraid you'd say that." He sighed and looked away. "I suppose if we have to face the Moblin in the room, we might as well do it now."
Kari said nothing more as they walked in tense silence to the camp's outer perimeter. The moon was full and lit the surrounding snow with its beautiful silver rays. The Northern Lights danced in the heavens, setting the cloudless sky ablaze in a flurry of light and color. Link couldn't help but marvel at the pristine snow and the unspoiled beauty of nature.
"I think we have walked far enough," Kari said, stopping short and turning around to face Link. He let out a heavy sigh, forming a thick puff of steam in the air. Link's apprehension only increased.
The hero fiddled with the strap on his scabbard. "Yeah, I guess you're right." He wanted to say something more, but his own anxiety robbed his words. More than anything, he hated failing others. Now, he would have to face those shortcomings, and there was no way to avoid it.
Kari looked down at the ground. "Link, to be honest, there is no easy way to talk about this." He took another deep breath. "But I will try." He looked back up at the hero. "I appreciate that you have tried to treat our friendship as though you didn't kill one of my kin. But I'm afraid it isn't working. I think we both agree that things have not been the same since Zili died."
Link hesitantly nodded. "Yes, I suppose I'd have to agree."
"Then why haven't we addressed it? I was hoping you would come to me, but instead, I had to chase you down."
Link's voice rose. He felt his shame getting the best of him. "What is there to talk about? I was dumb. I was stupid. I was overwhelmed with grief and anger and did something I will regret for the rest of my life." He looked back up. His shoulders slumped. "Kari, I know no amount of words will ever bring him back or repay your loss. And to be honest, I expect our friendship will never be the same."
Kari scowled. "Is that all you have to say? You murdered a Sheikah in cold blood! You robbed me of one of my kin!" He folded his arms. "You won't even try to make amends for that?"
Link flinched and looked down at the ground. He wanted to turn into a wolf and slink away with his tail beneath his legs. This was exactly the response he had been dreading.
"While we're on the topic, do you have anything you'd like to say about the other Sheikah you've killed?" Kari asked.
Link's eyes flared. "Other Sheikah?"
The wind tamer's expression remained cold and calculating. "I know about you and Ordona. I know you are the same person."
The hero's mouth dropped. "How…how did you…who told you?"
The Sheikah looked at the hero sternly. "To be honest, I didn't know. Initially, it was only a theory, but your reaction to my question just confirmed it."
Link cursed inwardly to himself. Why did he have to be so transparent?
"I guess now you know everything," Link said. He bent down and scooped a handful of snow and squeezed it. "I never thought you'd find out. But now that you know, I guess there's no hiding my shame. I have more blood on my hands than I'll ever be able to repay."
Kari nodded. "I agree that you have a lot of blood on your hands. To be honest, it's deplorable." He paused, taking another deep breath. "But I'm glad you are finally being honest with me. After all, I didn't come to confront you about your mistakes."
Link dropped the snow in his hand and stood up. "You didn't?"
Kari shook his head. "No. After all, with some help, I've come to realize that I'm not so blameless in this situation myself. I reacted in some ways that I'm not so proud of."
Link wanted to ask what Kari meant, but thought it best to wait. He would elaborate if he wanted to.
"I almost killed you, Link," he continued. "If Mudora hadn't intervened, your blood would be on my hands and we wouldn't be having this conversation."
"But Kari…"
"Say what you want, but revenge is never justified. Just the thought is poison to the soul, even if you are never able to carry it out." He looked up at the aurora-filled sky. "But worse than that, I betrayed you and the rest of our friends. I left you in Mudora's hands and stole the Ocarina of Time from Tifa." He placed his fingers an inch apart. "I was this close to returning to my own time. This close to returning to Kasuto and my people. This close to abandoning you all forever."
Link was speechless. He leaned his body to one side. Only one question seemed to find its way to his lips. "Why didn't you go? Why did you come back?"
Kari took a few steps and gazed at the full moon as he reflected on the journey that brought him here. "After Zili died, I thought I was the last Sheikah. The loneliness and weight of that burden became more unbearable than ever before. I thought the only way to heal it would be to return to the past."
"However, when I finally had the chance, I couldn't bring myself to do it. Something inside just didn't feel right. I felt like if I went through with it, I would be losing part of myself. It wasn't until I met Impaz that I realized why that was." He paused. "She showed me that there were still Sheikah survivors like her and Zili mug
out there. She helped me realize that if I returned to the past, I would be condemning them to die. If I had gone through with it, my selfish decision would've caused the Sheikah tribe to truly become extinct."
Link nodded. "Of course…why didn't I make the connection earlier? She is a Sheikah!" He looked at Kari. "So you decided to stay behind to protect what's left of your people?"
Kari nodded. "That's one reason, but there's more to it." He pointed to Link. "When I thought of returning home, I also kept thinking about you and the others and all the memories we shared. I kept wondering if you would survive without me." He smiled. "Eventually, after a lot of thought, it finally dawned on me: my place is here. My village is gone, and returning to the past won't change that. Its fate was decided long ago. But this world…it is still full of possibilities and promise. If I stay here and fight alongside you, there's still a chance we can save it."
The hero beamed "Kari…I don't know what to say." He took a deep breath. "I can't even imagine how hard a decision that was."
Kari looked down at the ground. "You see the fruits of that decision, but it was not easily reached. I grappled with it for days. In the end, it was the hardest sacrifice I've ever had to make." He looked at Link sternly. "Do you realize what I had to give up?"
Link nodded his head. "As long as I can remember, you've always wanted to go home. Your family…your friends…your village. You chose us over them."
"That's not all, Link." A small tear rolled down his cheek. "The day that Kasuto was destroyed was also my wedding day. You remember Midna, don't you?"
Link nodded his head quickly. "Quite vividly, in fact. She is hard to forget." He saw the grief in Kari's expression and quieted his voice empathetically. "I could sense the connection between you two immediately."
Another tear rolled down the Sheikah's cheek. "We only had a few minutes as newlyweds before the village was attacked. Not only will I never see her again, but I will never have the chance to go back and experience the life we were supposed to have together."
Link felt his heart grow heavy. He could feel the weight of Kari's grief. And yet, he still insisted on sticking by his decision.
"Kari, why are you telling me this?"
The Sheikah looked at the hero intensely. Even as his body trembled with grief, he remained intent on keeping his gaze. His weak voice struggled to utter his words. "Because, before I die, I want someone else to grasp what I'm really giving up. I want someone who can share my grief with me and understand it. Link, you are the only person I can do this with."
Link choked back the words. "But why me? I'm a murderer and a monster! You said it yourself!"
Kari was silent. The hero couldn't stand it. He paced restlessly around in the snow, looking constantly to the wind tamer. Kari continued to direct his gaze at the ground, unwilling to give a response until he was ready.
"Those words may be true, Link, but you are also the closest thing I have to a friend. You are the only person who truly understands what I've been through and what I'm leaving behind. You saw the war between Hylians and Sheikah that devastated my people and understand the connection that Midna and I shared. You stood by me in this strange land, even when I was hostile and harsh with my words. Even when I fled from the group, you tracked me down in an attempt to atone for your stupidity."
Link looked away. He felt his eyes beginning to water.
"Link, as I said before, I didn't come to talk about your mistakes. Farore knows I've made my fair share. I came because I knew we needed to air out the grievances between us before we can forgive and move on. After all, I consider you my closest friend here, and I don't want to lose that friendship." He took a deep breath. "Though it has not been easy, the goddesses have helped me see that you did not mean to hurt me in what you did. Though you've caused me great pain, I still forgive you, Link."
Link was stunned. His pacing stopped suddenly as he looked sheepishly at the ground. The words were like medicine for his soul. He felt a burden lifted from his shoulders. "Kari…thank you. And though I feel like you've done nothing wrong, I forgive you as well."
The Sheikah attempted a smile even amidst his grief. He wiped the tears from his cheeks. "I'm glad. Now I can die without any regrets."
Link's head shot up. "Die? What are you talking about? The two of us will make it through this alive!" His face brightened. "And who knows? Maybe when this is all over, you'll be able to return to Kasuto after all!"
Kari smiled solemnly. "Link, you don't understand. Even if we do win, I won't live to see it."
Link smirked. "Yeah, I guess I don't understand. Are you saying I'm too weak to protect you? Do I need to remind you of how many of our contests I've won?"
The Sheikah's voice grew irritated. "Link! This has nothing to do with your strength!" He paused to regain his composure. "This has to do with the connection that Mudora and I share."
The hero flinched. "Connection? With Mudora? What are you talking about?"
Kari retrieved the Wind Waker and gazed into it. "It is difficult to describe. The simple explanation is that he and I share the same life force. If one of us dies, then the other will die as well. But there's more to it than that. Ever since Death Mountain, I have caught glimpses of what he is feeling and thinking. I can sense where he is too. I can only assume it works in reverse."
"You can tell what he's thinking?" Link asked excitedly. "Maybe we can use this to our advantage!"
Kari shook his head. "The glimpses I receive are chaotic and make little sense. Most of the time, I receive a strong feeling of regret and sadness, but I'm not able to determine why."
Link's brow furrowed. "You're right. That is strange." He began to pace around again, retracing his same steps in the snow from earlier. "Why do you two have this connection in the first place?"
Kari's face darkened. "It's because I should've died a long time ago. Do you remember when I was executed in Lon Lon Prison?"
Link's eyes shot open. "I…I…yes. I do remember that." He looked away. "I tried to save you, but I couldn't. You stopped breathing and everything."
"That's because I died." The void left by his statement was overwhelming and caused the hero to flinch. Kari quickly continued his explanation. "When my father realized this, he brought me to the Underworld in desperation. That's when he met Mudora, who brought me back to life in exchange for my father's obedience. When Mudora placed his power inside me, we became linked."
Link studied the Sheikah's expression. There was no hint of a smile or smirk. There was no jest in his eyes or other gesture to indicate he was fibbing. The cold expression he received meant this is what Kari firmly knew and believed.
"That…that is quite a story," Link said. "But what about your father? Why isn't he still with Mudora?"
"That is the other thing I need to tell you," Kari said. He looked away. "Sharlo…Zant…they are one and the same. The same person you saw all those years ago is the same person threatening us even now."
Link arched a brow skeptically. "And how does that work?"
Kari folded his arms. "I don't have time to explain. Please…just trust me on this."
The same intense expression sat on Kari's face. This was no laughing matter.
"Very well, I believe you." Link replied. "We just have to figure out a way to severe the link between you and Mudora. Maybe Zelda can think of something."
Kari folded his arms. "Link, none of this leaves our conversation. No one else can know what I have told you. I do not want them to hesitate when the time comes to strike Mudora down."
"Then why did you tell me?"
Kari smiled. "Because I know you will not hesitate to strike when the time comes. And because you are my friend."
Link began chuckling to himself.
"What's so funny?" Kari asked.
"I was just thinking about when you and I first met. You would've never used the word 'friend' to describe anyone. In fact, you threatened me when I used that word to describe you." He took a deep breath, the cold air chilling his lungs as he exhaled. "Now look at how far you've come."
Kari nodded. "Indeed. I feel like much has changed since we first met. Who would've thought I'd befriend a Hylian?"
Link smirked. "Then as your friend, I challenge you to one final contest. All of this talk of gloom and doom has made me restless. What do you say to one last sparring match for old times' sake? No weapons. Just good ol' martial arts."
Kari smirked and ensured the Wind Waker was firmly in his sleeve pocket. "Very well. I accept your challenge." He cracked his neck. "First one to pin the other wins."
Link unstrapped the scabbard from his shoulder and set it along with the Hylian Shield down in the snow. He crouched low to the ground. "You're on."
"This is it. Tomorrow, when that sun rises, we go to war," Zelda's words hung in the air like a thick fog.
Link, Colin, and all the sages were gathered in Zelda's tent. All of the maps and scenario boards had been cleared off the table and placed in a corner. Instead, a plate of cookies and hot tea stood in the center of the table, with each of them standing or sitting around it. Up until now, there had been laughing and joking. Now, as Zelda's words rang in their minds, their laughter dyed down. Those drinking tea set their cups softly on the table and gave the monarch their attention.
As Zelda looked at those gathered around her, she smiled. This was not a strategy or a war meeting. The time for that was long gone. No, this was a gathering of companions and friends, her inner circle, to spend one last meal together and reflect on the task that lay ahead. Each person here, even Atrayu, had struggled and suffered through this miserable war. It was because of their efforts they were even in a position to finally take the fight to Mudora.
They had spent much of the night joking and celebrating their progress. Now, it was time to reflect on the task that lay ahead.
"I know this war has not been easy on any of us. It is because of the struggles and suffering of each person in this room that we have gotten to this point," Zelda said. "I am grateful for those sacrifices, but I must also ask that we endure a little longer. We have not won yet. No matter what we face tomorrow, we have to give it our all."
"Can we even win?" Ilia asked, a hint of nervousness in her voice. "The army around that tower is enormous." She reached for a cup of tea, brought it to her lips, but then reconsidered and set it back down.
"Of course we can!" Colin said with a smile, taking her hand in his. "We have Link and Kari on our side."
Ilia looked down at their hands and gave a gentle squeeze. "I suppose you're right."
"I'm afraid it won't be that simple." Atrayu shook her head. "I can't believe I'm saying this, but Zelda is right. You would do well to check your resolve as well as your skill before tomorrow. Both arrogance and cowardice will lead to death."
Rishu furrowed his brows. He stuffed a tasty treat in his mouth. "Do you always have to ruin the mood, Dodongo? I'm trying to enjoy these delicious cookies."
Atrayu scowled at the Zora. "I only speak what I know. While you were busy stuffing your face all day, I did some scouting on the enemy. I didn't like what I saw." She looked to the rest of the group and her face darkened. "There are thousands of shifters guarding the tower. Each one of them can easily handle two well-trained Hylian knights. And then there are Zant's monsters. How my kin are able to get along with those disgusting abominations is beyond my understanding." She paused. "I suppose the only consolation we have is that they won't attack us until we approach the tower."
Link looked up. "How can you be sure?"
Atrayu smirked. "I have a spy in the enemy's camp. They confirmed Mudora gave orders to only attack once we approached the tower. They won't harm us while we're camped."
Rishu laughed. "Then maybe we should camp here for a few more days. After all, what's the rush?"
Midna rolled her eyes. "That sounds like a great idea, Rishu. And while we're roasting chestnuts over an open fire, Mudora can turn us and the entire world into monsters."
The Zora's smile faded. "Oh…well…I guess that would be bad. Then I wouldn't be able to cook."
Link directed his gaze at Atrayu. "But how do you know they won't attack?"
Colin's eyes lit up. "You spoke to Rin, didn't you? Is that how you know?"
The shifter's brows arched in surprise. "That's right. Maybe you're not as dumb as I give you credit. She's helping us from the inside for now. If they are planning any surprises for us, she'll be the first to know."
Link slipped his hand from Midna's and took another sip from his tea cup. "But it doesn't make sense. He has the superior numbers. What could he possibly gain from allowing us to make the first move?"
"This will sound strange, but what if he's trying to avoid a bloody battle?" Kari suggested. "I have spent enough time with him to know he detests violence. He is a pacifist at heart."
Link recalled what Kari said about the connection he shared with Mudora. Perhaps that insight had come from that connection. Even so, the sentiment seemed too naïve and ideal. It was too risky for any of them to act on it.
"I wish that were the case, Kari, but I smell a trap," Link said. "We should be wary."
Atrayu grunted. "I'm afraid we have more than just that to worry about. If you walk along the perimeter of the camp, you'll find a dead carcass from Scorpio courtesy of yours truly. I don't know what he wanted, but I bet he's not alone."
Zelda scowled. "Scorpio followed us all the way out here?" She placed an exasperated hand on her forehead. "As if we don't have enough troubles already."
Link shrugged his shoulders. "Let them bring their worst. We'll be ready."
The monarch looked to the hero in astonishment. There was a grim expression on his face; his words hadn't been spoken in arrogance. There was a strong confidence in his eyes, but it was not conceit. He, and all of them, would be ready because they had to be. There was no other choice. What she wouldn't give to be blessed with even a fourth of his courage. She was glad he was on their side.
"Link is right," Zelda said. "We can talk all we want about how strong the enemy is, but the fact remains that we still have to win." Her gaze moved to each person as she spoke. "It will not be easy. Some of us might be lucky and come back whole, but others will return from this battle with gaping wounds and lifelong scars." She paused to take a deep breath. "And some of us will not come back at all."
Link and Kari shared a knowing glance.
"Nonetheless," Zelda continued, "I'd like to think we stand a chance of winning this. After all, look at where we are and how far we've come." She looked over to the two Ordonians. "Ilia, I am amazed at the progress you've made learning magic, and I'm sure our soldiers are grateful they don't have to travel through winter weather. And Colin, I know this war has cost you greatly. Even so, your courage and strength have made the difference when our quest seemed doomed to fail." She turned to the forest sage and her fairy. "Tifa, I know it isn't easy for you to face the battlefield ahead, but your courage in the face of adversity is an inspiration to us all. And Tatl, she wouldn't be here without your guidance."
She turned to the Water Sage. "Rishu, your humor, love of music, and carefree spirit reminds us of the joys in this life, even if your cooking nearly kills us." She turned to the shifter. "Atrayu…well…I'm glad that you're not our enemy anymore." She quickly turned to the Twili. "Midna, I know this war has cost you more than anyone else. You've worked harder perhaps than anyone to see this quest succeed. And for that, I thank you."
She turned to Link. "Link, your courage has been the foundation for this entire quest. Your strength, courage, and refusal to give up have kept us all going." She turned to the Sheikah. "And Kari, you had no reason to help us. And yet, without your help, none of this success would be possible. We are forever in your debt."
Zelda looked to the whole group again. "Despite everything we've been through, we've awakened all six sages and brought the fight to Mudora." She smiled warmly and raised her cup. "No matter what happens out there tomorrow, I am proud to be fighting by each and every person in this room."
Link grabbed his cup and raised it as well. "Here's a toast. To victory!"
They all grabbed their cups and joined in the toast.
"To victory!" they cheered together.
The celebration continued a little while longer until the jovial conversation and laughter eventually died down. Each person shuffled out of the tent to rest and prepare for tomorrow until only Link and Midna remained with Zelda. As they said goodnight to her, they walked together into the cold night air.
"It's hard to believe this all ends tomorrow," Midna said, wrapping Link's arm in hers to stay warm. The snow crunched softly beneath their feet as they passed by a tent full of sleeping soldiers. "Whether we win or lose, this journey is almost over."
Link nodded pensively. "It's been a crazy adventure, that's for sure. And I thought I had seen it all on my last journey."
"You mean our last journey," Midna corrected.
"Of course," Link laughed. "How could I forget that?" He paused. "And I'm glad I have you along for this one as well."
She arched a brow. "Then why were you in such a hurry to leave me behind? Twice!"
Link looked at the ground. "Because I was afraid I couldn't control the wolf inside. I was afraid I'd hurt you. I couldn't take that risk."
She placed her other hand on his shoulder. "Link…"
"But that's behind me now. I know who I am and I've accepted it." He smiled and looked at her. "I never want you to leave your side again, Midna. No matter what happens. No matter what tomorrow brings."
"That's a pretty lofty promise to make," she said, giving him a gentle kiss on the lips. "I'm going to hold you to that."
Link laughed. "Then I guess no more adventures for me once this war is over."
Midna shook her head. "Link, whatever happens after this war, you're going to have more adventures. It's just who you are and one of the many reasons I admire you. All I ask is that I get to be a part of them."
The hero kissed her nose this time. It was colder than he expected. "I wouldn't have it any other way."
"I'm glad to hear it." She pulled his arm firmly towards his tent. "And now that we've established that, let's get out of this cold. If this is our last night, I want to spend it together."
Link's cheeks flushed. "I…well…I'm not sure if…"
Midna laughed. "Relax. That's not what I was implying. Just get inside before your face freezes off."
The hero stayed where he was for the moment. His attention had been captured by the full moon and the dancing northern lights. His gaze followed the swirls of color until his eyes eventually lowered to the enemy's camp. He felt his pulse race as he locked onto the tower glowing ominously in the valley below. He couldn't see them, but he knew thousands of foes awaited him. His fist slowly clenched and unclenched with nervous anticipation. He had seen more battles than most here, and he knew how unpredictable they could be. Any one of them could die tomorrow.
This night could be his last.
And yet, the evening was silent and peaceful save for the whispering of the wind and the occasional wolf's howl. The eve before battle was always like the calm before the storm, and this was no exception. It was hard to believe something so peaceful and beautiful could serve as the prelude to so much death and bloodshed. It only served to heighten his awareness and anxiety.
"Link? Are you coming?" Midna called.
Link tensed and took a deep breath. It was only Midna.
"I'm coming," he replied, heading in her direction.
If this was his last night, he was glad to be spending it with the woman he loved.
Mudora's robe flapped in the harsh winter wind as he looked at the lights flickering from the enemy's camp in the distance. It surprised them that they would reveal their location so carelessly. They were only a few hours march away. Were they that confident that he wouldn't attack them?
He smiled. Zelda had called his bluff.
He had no intention of attacking them. Link, Kari, and the six sages were somewhere among those tents. Why induce unnecessary bloodshed when everything was already going according to plan?
He closed his eyes and listened to the restless howls and cries of the army around him. The air stank with the odor of Zant's foul monsters. Their hideous forms clouded the otherwise beautiful landscape. Some sharpened their weapons in preparation for the fight ahead. Some ate food they had scavenged earlier in the evening. Many of them fought in pointless scuffles that only proved their stupidity and brutality.
Mudora detested the battlefield.
The shifters were no better. They separated themselves from the monsters when they could, but he could still sense the same lust for battle. He knew they loathed him, that they would kill him if they had the chance. They did not want him as their Alpha. But they also feared him. And that is why he had their obedience. He only needed their compliance a little longer. Once the battle began, they could do whatever they wanted.
Zant walked up beside Mudora. His face was grim. A cleaver was in each hand.
"All signs from the enemy indicate they plan to attack tomorrow," he stated casually.
"Then tomorrow you will have to face your son. Are you really willing to fight him? Have you thought of joining him?" the deity asked.
Zant looked hard at the fires glowing from the camp on the hill. "I hold no love for the Hylians either. I fight only for Kari's protection."
Mudora cast a gaze in Zant's direction. "And how do you intend to protect him if you have to fight him?"
Zant scowled at the deity. "I know what you need him for. I will kill us both before I allow you to have him. That is a promise."
Mudora only smiled. "Is that your final act of rebellion?"
"It is the least I can do to atone for my mistakes."
The deity nodded solemnly. "We shall see if Kari feels the same." He took a deep breath. "I'm sure he has his own promises to keep, as do I."
"You made a promise?" Zant asked. "I find that laughable."
Mudora scowled. "I recommend you choose your next words carefully. I take this promise quite seriously."
Zant scowled. "Oh really? What sort of promise is it then?"
"It was a promise I made to the ones who sealed me away." He looked back out at the enemy's camp. "Everything I've done up to this point has been to keep that promise. Soon, I shall see if I was successful."
"A promise of vengeance, huh? I wouldn't have thought you the type," the usurper king snarled. "Either way, it all ends tomorrow."
Mudora nodded. "You are correct. It all ends tomorrow. It should make for an interesting day indeed."
A/N – At last, we are near the end! The final battle begins next chapter! Thanks for reading this far and please review! See you all next chapter!
And in case anyone was wondering, the theme for each sage is based on their Ocarina of Time counterpart. Just a fun little piece of trivia.