by Olga Levina

Introduction

Description: In this story, Diego de la Vega finds himself having to decide if his quest for justice is not only something that he wants to continue doing, or even if it is worth the effort. During this soul searching process, he sees things that are not only disturbing, but increasingly horrifying. Will he continue as the masked avenger, knowing what he has learned, will his heart be turned from helping the people he loves and will he pass this Final Exam?

Disclaimer: The characters of Diego/Zorro, Alejandro de la Vega, Bernardo, and Tornado belong to the Walt Disney 1950s TV show. The characters of Victor Fuentes, Luis Romero, his cousin Manuel, as well as the phantoms and all the others that Diego encounters in what Jean Cocteau called l'au-delà (the place beyond) are of my own creation. If anyone wishes to borrow them, they are free to do so as long as they ask my permission first.

A note from the Author: This is an unusual story in that it not only deals with Fate and phantoms and the idea of an outside control over human life, but also in that it explores some very disturbing aspects of human nature. There are some things we must never forget about to make sure that they do not repeat. This story is such a reminder, perhaps, but it is also a speculation: is human race worthy of existence? Considering all the monstrous things that humans are capable of committing, is there anything in our lives worth saving? It is not easy to answer that question. I have tried to give my own response. Whether it is right or wrong is for you to decide -- as Zorro said, "in your own mind and heart."

Thanks go out to: I wanted to express my deepest thanks to all my friends on the Lists for their warm comments on this story, and a special thanks to Zorra (Marian) for overcoming my shyness and posting the story on the List :-). --Olga Levina 27 July 1999

Prologue

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine