Fate: The Winx Saga Season 2

by AndrewK9000

The mysteries surrounding Bloom Peters grow murkier as she struggles under the 'guidance' of Rosalind while drawn into a conspiracy by those who seek to bring down the new Alfea headmistress. And just who or what is Rosalind so afraid of? Rated M for language, violence, drugs and mild sexual content. Reader discretion is advised.

3. Chapter 2

Chapter 2

Like so many mornings since she arrived at Alfea, the cacophony of Aisha's electric toothbrush woke Bloom from a solid sleep. Fortunately for Bloom, her dreams weren't of Ricki or of strange voices in a fantastical coral reef. Nevertheless, Bloom resented Aisha's devotion to oral hygiene, as well as not buying earplugs while she was back in Gardenia.

"For the love of sex, drugs and rock'n'roll!" said a groggy Carmencita de Dawsan, otherwise known as Carmen from hereon in, as she unzipped her sleeping bag next to Bloom's bed and sat up, "what is that awful din?"

"That's Aisha," said Bloom as she rubbed her eyes, "and her industrial strength toothbrush."

"I don't like going to the dentist," said Aisha, "I especially don't like it when they scrape my teeth with metal scrapers."

"So you clean your teeth on the atomic level?" Carmen asked, "I was having the best erotic nightmare. Maybe if I close my eyes, I can…" she leaned back and started snoring again.

Just then the door flung open and in strutted a tired but satisfied Morgana Fallentine, otherwise known as Morgan.

"Rise and shine, Carmen," said Morgan as nudged her friend, "it's your shift."

"Go away, Morgan!" groaned Carmen, "I'm having an unconscious BDSM fantasy. Go bother Elise."

"Elise finished her shift and I did mine," said Morgan as she pulled Carmen to her feet, "We're making progress and can't stop now. Get up!"

"I hate you both," muttered Carmen.

"I love you too," teased Morgan as she helped her friend out towards Stella's room.

"My, what interesting friends we've made," said Aisha as she readied for her morning swim, "are we really trusting them to get us away from Rosalind?"

"They seemed sincere last night," said Bloom as she pulled the covers back up in hopes of a few minutes more of sleep before had to get up, before she had to face Rosalind again. Yet sleep eluded Bloom as last night's events rewound and played in her memories.

---

"Blood Witches?" Bloom asked in both a shocked and intrigued tone as she and her fellow Fairies sat with Carmen and the revived Morgan and Elysium 'Elise' Ashwood-Fairchild, all eight girls eagerly enjoying pizza slices. But whereas Bloom, Stella, Musa, Terra and Aisha drank soda, the three rehydrated girls drank only water, per Aisha's instructions to further the rehydration process.

"Yes, Blood Witches," said Carmen between mouthfuls of pepperoni pizza, "this is, what, the eighth time tonight you asked?"

"I'm sorry," said Bloom, "it's just, Rosalind said there weren't any more Blood Witches in Otherworld, at least not in Solaria."

"Surely by now, Bloom," said Elise, "you must realize that Rosalind is a pathological liar."

"We would've been extinct if Rosalind and her ilk had her way," said Morgan as she opened a fresh box of extra cheese pizza, "especially Queen Luna. No offense, Stella, but your mother really hates us."

"My mother hates anything that goes against her ideals of strength and perfection," said Stella, "but enough about my maternal monster, how did you three wound up with Ricki?"

"And just what is a Blood Witch and why are they so hated?" Terra asked, "I mean, from what Rosalind told Bloom, you guys are like vampires or something."

"May I borrow a mirror?" Carmen asked, then got up and went to Stella's room.

"Clearly Blood Witches lack the concept of asking permission," said an annoyed Stella as Carmen walked back with one of her many mirrors.

"Time is of the essence," said Carmen, "and you need to understand what my coven sisters and I are," she then held the mirror so Bloom and the others saw her reflection, then angled it to show Morgan and Elise's reflections, "we are not vampires."

"I believe, to be technical," said Elise, "we are almost, but not quite, entirely unlike vampires."

"But you use dark magic," said Musa.

"Magic is as magic does, as my adopted grandma would say," said Morgan, "but yes, traditionally, Blood Witch Magic tends to enact negative effects upon the world."

"'But what is Blood Witch Magic?' you're about to ask," said Carmen as she looked at Terra.

"How'd you know I was gonna ask that?" an amazed Terra asked, "do you use Mind Magic?"

"I'd know if she could," said Musa as her eyes glowed, "she's not, but…" she frowned slightly, "you three are shielding your emotions."

"One of many defensive techniques we learned," said Elise, "if you're in the saving the world business, you need to protect your mind and heart from unwanted intrusion."

"But aren't Blood Witches evil?" Stella asked, "or at least traditionally evil."

"I'm not ashamed to admit our people have a dark and destructive past," said Carmen, "millennium of innocent blood and misguided worship, countless sins in need of rectifying. But those days are long past."

"We're among the first covens of a new era of Reformed Blood Witches," said Morgan cheerfully, "no more false gods, no more bloodletting of the innocent."

"I don't get it," said Bloom.

"I think I understand," said Stella, "at least part of it. Blood Witches used to believe in bloodthirsty gods, but they don't anymore."

"That's the gist of it," said Elise, "yes, we did believe in dark gods and goddesses and a plethora of horrific fell creatures, all of which demanded the ritual spilling and consumption of innocent blood to fuel our powers."

"'Fuel your powers?'" Aisha asked.

"That's the main difference between Fairies and Blood Witches," said Carmen, "the source of our magics."

"Both use emotion and intent to charge and direct," said Elise, "but whereas your magic comes from The Land, ours is powered by blood."

"We basically burn through red blood cells and hemoglobin when using magic," said Morgan. Bloom saw a vein around Morgan's eyes distend and pulse as the brunette witch stood up and pulled out an orange and green teddy bear from thin air. "The bigger the magics you use, the more of the red stuff you burn up."

"That's what makes us similar to vampires," said Carmen, "we need fresh blood to replace what we use when casting magic, otherwise we'd die of severe anemia."

"You're not going to spill our blood to fuel yourselves, are you?" a nervous Terra asked.

"Weren't you paying attention?" Carmen asked, "we don't do that anymore."

"Gone are the days when Blood Witches prayed and sacrificed to dark deities and nightmares made flesh, The False Ones," said Morgan, "and we mostly don't drink human or Fairy blood anymore."

"You use animal blood now?" Stella asked.

"Check out the brain on Stella!" said Morgan, "you're pretty bright for a princess." She then giggled at her own pun.

"Well, this princess isn't afraid to get her hands dirty," said Stella, "or bloody."

"Oh, I like this one," said Morgan to Carmen and Elise, "I think we'll keep her."

"So, about animal blood," said Bloom.

"It's a matter of red cell and hemoglobin content," said Elise, "and taste. Some Witches prefer herbivores, others carnivores, or omnivores, just as some prefer mammals over reptiles."

"But now with modern science and improved magics," said Morgan as another vein around her eyes distended. She pulled out from nowhere a pouch with an airtight seal, "now we don't need to get our hands messy."

"What was that just now?" Bloom asked, "you three keep pulling stuff out of nowhere, how'd you do that?"

"Subspace pockets," said Elise as Morgan unsealed the pouch and pulled out what looked like a large piece of red candy, "you can store virtually anything and call it back as needed, but the larger the mass of the object, the more power is needed to store and recall."

"Best to top our mojos off," said Morgan as she passed the pouch to Carmen, who took a piece of red candy, then Elise took one. In unison, the three witches placed the candy pieces in their mouths.

"Is that…are those…?" Musa asked as she sensed the pleased emotions from Carmen and her fellow coven sisters.

"Blood concentrates," said Carmen as the candy dissolved in her mouth. She swallowed and the vessels around her eyes glowed for a few seconds.

"Artificial blood concentrates to be exact," said Elise after she and Morgan swallowed and their faces glowed briefly, "no longer do we need to spill blood of any kind. Only extremist Blood Witches and the mentally ill of our kind cling to our deplorable past and perform ritual sacrifice."

"Okay, we've covered what a Blood Witch is," said Bloom, "but what about you three? What's your story?"

"And how did Ricki get involved in this?" Stella asked.

"Out of respect to our dreamer colleague," said Elise, "we'll leave Ricki's story for Ricki to tell. But to ease your curiosity, Princess Stella, your friend shares a common enemy with everyone in The Shadow Cadre."

"Rosalind, Andreas and Queen Luna," Carmen, "everyone in The Shadow Cadre has a beef with one or all three of them. Mrs. Walker, our de facto leader, she originally started it as a support group for people who had their lives ruined."

"Or they're related to someone who had their hopes and dreams crushed by Rosalind's machinations," said Morgan, "or Andreas' selfishness, or Luna's heartless policies. Whatever the reason, we all came together to heal and seek justice."

"Our unofficial motto, 'There's no Healing without Justice,'" said Elise.

"And now our story," said Carmen, "our families, Morgan, Elise and mine, they were murdered by Rosalind."

"Aster Dell?" Bloom asked.

"Only a handful survived Rosalind's act of genocide," said Carmen, "Morgan, Elise and I, we were at a Pox Party out of town. I was barely a year old when my mother sent me to a friend whose son had caught Chicken pox, so I was sent to catch it."

"Same with us," said Elise, "that act of parental smothering saved our lives."

"My mother's friend knew we'd be killed if Rosalind knew there were survivors," said Carmen, "so Elise, Morgan and I, as well as the other Blood Witch covens of Otherworld, we all went into hiding."

"Some went underground in Solaria and the other realms," said Elise, "while the majority scattered across The Multiverse, with yours truly ending up on a Mars terraforming colony in Dimension F-67."

"I wasn't so lucky," said Carmen, "I was adopted by a mundane family in Doverhill on Earth K-260, otherwise known as Firstworld."

"Doverhill? No way! No way!" said an astonished Bloom, "that's only an hour's drive from Gardenia! Now that I think about it, we might've met before."

"I'd remember if I met you," said Carmen, "my foster family, bless them, they loved me, but they are the most boring mortals ever born! Seriously, my adopted parents are both litigators. They made every effort to be there for me, but their work schedules made it all but impossible to get out of town, unless…"

"Unless what?" Terra asked eagerly.

"There was that one summer I was starting pitcher for my school's softball team," said Carmen, "that was, what, four years ago?"

"Your team was playing against my team, I remember now!" said Bloom, "you almost threw a no-hitter," she then frowned, "then you got beaned when you were at bat in the 8th Inning."

"Is that what happened?" Carmen asked as she felt the left side of her forehead, "the last thing I remember from that day was stepping up to bat, then I woke up in the hospital. My team won the game, but my baseball days were over."

"And good thing too, by the way," said Morgan, "I happened to be in town because a friend needed a pin put in her arm, and I walked into Carmen's room by mistake," she then smiled widely as she flung her arms around Carmen, "and we've been inseparable since!"

"Some days are too close for comfort," said Carmen as Morgan hugged her tighter.

"Anyhoo," said Morgan as she released Carmen, "I was adopted by Hollywood makeup artists and I grew up learning all the tricks of the trade. You need a Red-Carpet treatment or a look that'll make the boys lose their minds, I'm your girl."

"Oh, I'll be sure to call you for the next awards ceremony," said Stella.

"Okay, so we know how you two got together," said Bloom to Carmen and Morgan, she then looked at Elise, "how'd you get ropped in?"

"That, I am still not sure," said Elise, "about four years ago I was experimenting with my powers."

A high-pitched buzzing sounded through the room and all the lights flickered on and off, "electromagnetism," said Elise as a vein around her eye pulsed, "not only can I control electrical items, but I can also discharge massive blasts of static electricity. Show me a Burned One and I'll reduce it to ashes.

"As to how I became the third member of our little Trio, I fell on them."

"She fell on us," said Carmen, "seriously, she just popped out of nowhere ten feet up and dropped on top of Morgan and I."

"She fell on me and we both fell on you," said Morgan.

"Were you…flying?" Musa asked.

"I wish," said Morgan.

"Blood Witches can fly," said Elise, "but only with years of practice."

"It's harder than it looks, especially without wings," said Carmen as a vein around her eye pulsed, "So I figured I could get around it with my power over gravity."

With a startled yelp, Musa, Aisha and Terra levitated several feet in the air.

"I can float others, but not me," said Carmen, "I still don't know why."

"Yeah, well, ask someone before you float them, will you?!" Aisha asked as she found herself upside down.

"You want down? Down you go," said Carmen. The three floating Fairies fell back to the floor, with Aisha landing on her head, while Musa and Terra on their sides.

"Again, ask first!" said Aisha as she felt a bruise forming on her head.

"Oh, you got a booboo?" Morgan motherly asked, "let me kiss it and make it all better!"

"Oh, no! No thank you!" said Aisha as she sat up, "I've had just enough Blood Magic for one night, thank you!"

"It's no trouble," said Morgan as a vein around her eye pulsed, "there, all better, right?"

"I do feel better," said an astonished Aisha as the bruised skin glowed brightly, then faded out, taking the damage with it.

"You healed her that far away?" Bloom asked, "I need to touch someone to heal them!"

"If anyone should feel jealous, it's me," said Morgan, "I don't have any offensive powers, just defense." She held out her hands and a field of bluish-white energy surrounded her, "hit me as hard as you can."

"What?" Bloom asked.

"It's a Shield spell," said Carmen, "she's all but untouchable now."

"We figured at full power, she could survive an atomic blast," said Elise, "but since there's no available nuclear devices, we'll just leave that test up to theory."

"It's alright, I'm not in the mood to glow in the dark," said Morgan as her Shield faded out, "I've got other tricks up my sleeves to compensate for my magical shortcomings. So, enough about we three, time to discourse you five."

"We have a plan that'll get The Winx out of Alfea in seven days," said Carmen, "starting now. Elise, if you will?"

"I need to borrow one of your closets," said Elise as she stood up and went to Stella's room.

"Again, ask first!" said Stella irately, "why my room?"

"Because according to the dormitory blueprints, your room has a second closet," said Elise as she opened said storage room and started tossing Stella's items out.

"Careful! Some of that is obnoxiously expensive!" said Stella as she rushed in and started moving her things with utmost care, "and why do you feel the need to intrude on my personal space?"

"Isn't it obvious?" Morgan asked as she walked in and helped relocate Stella's stuff, "we're going to dig our way out."

"Between my coven sisters and I," said Carmen, "we know enough Alchemy to break through Alfea's foundations and dig beneath Rosalind's protections. Our fellow Shadow Cadre members are digging the other end of the tunnel in the forest."

"We've calculated seven days to meet the other diggers halfway," said Elise, "during which time, Bloom and the others will carry on their normal routines so as not to arouse Rosalind's suspicions."

"And what, you're just going to dig in my room and hope nobody walks in?" Stella asked.

"That's where you come in, highness," said Carmen, "we need you to cast a 'Perception Filter' spell on the closet. That way, if any of Rosalind's goobers drops in for a surprise inspection or something thereof, all they'll see is your assorted knickknacks and whatnots."

"And what am I supposed to do with my personal property in the meantime?" Stella asked.

"You should learn the Subspace Pocket spell, you'd be amazed how much clutter you can put in it," said Morgan.

"There, one empty closet," said Carmen as she surveyed her work, "now," she cracked her knuckles, "who's gonna help me tear up the carpet?"

"Oh, I'll help," said Terra eagerly as she pulled out a pocketknife.

"You call that a knife?" Morgan asked. The vein around her eye pulsed as she pulled out an 8-inch athame from her Subspace Pocket, "now this is a knife!"

"Umm, compensating for something, are we?" Terra asked as Morgan started cutting up the carpet.

"I told you all, I've no offensive powers," said Morgan, "if some big, bad oogly-boogly tries putting its mandibles on me," she mimed stabbing said offending creature, "I'll cut it so had, it'll wish I didn't cut it so bad."

"I find that oddly titillating," said Musa, "how many…oogly-booglies, have you cut up?"

"So far, none," said Morgan, "but I've got plenty of tricks up my sleeves for close encounters."

"The less actual blood we spill, the better," said Carmen, "although if given the chance to take out Rosalind…"

"We're not killing Rosalind," said Bloom sternly, "whatever your beef is you have with her, whatever grudges the rest of The Shadow Cadre have, it's not worth killing her."

At that Carmen gave Bloom a glare that made Aisha, Musa, Stella, Terra, Elise and Morgan all flinch back, yet Bloom held her ground.

"Rosalind made me an orphan," said Carmen coldly, "she'd kill me without hesitation for what I am. My people are scattered across the Multiverse because of her prejudices. Why shouldn't I kill her if given the chance?"

"Because 'an eye for an eye makes the whole world blind,'" said Bloom, "revenge won't make things better, only worse. Besides, we need Rosalind. She knows something terrible is coming, and I've pretty much gained her trust enough that she'll tell me the truth."

"And you'd believe her after all her crimes?" Carmen asked, "after she manipulated you into freeing her and virtually enslaving you and your friends?"

That did give Bloom pause. Why should she believe anything Rosalind tells her? How can she even know Rosalind is telling the truth? But then Bloom remembered something, one of the many lessons Rosalind tried to cram into her during their private tutoring sessions.

"If I can master a certain Mind Magic technique before we leave, then yes, I'd believe her," said Bloom, "at least I'd know if she was lying or not."

For a moment, both Bloom and Carmen looked at each other, blue eyes meeting greenish yellow.

"Call me crazy, but I trust you," said Carmen.

"Okay, you're crazy," said Bloom.

Carmen chortled for a second, "you know, I think this is the start of a beautiful friendship."

"Just so you know, Carmen's my best friend for life," said Morgan as she playfully waved her athame at Bloom, "you try to usurp me, I'll cut you so bad, you'll wish I didn't cut you so bad."

"Whatever, can we get started?" Elise asked as she gently pushed Morgan out of the closet. She then pulled out a stick of chalk and began drawing on the exposed floor.

"What's she doing?" Musa asked, "I'm not ashamed to admit, I don't know much about Alchemy, other than what we've learned in Potions."

"There's alchemy, and then there's Alchemy," said Elise as she stood up, "Transmutation: the art of turning something into something else."

Bloom and her suitemates looked and saw a circle inscribed with intricate markings.

"Stand back, please," said Else as she cracked her knuckles. Once Bloom and the others were at a safe distance, Elise clapped her hands together, then touched the chalk circle. The lines glowed brightly, then flashed so bright, Bloom and the others had to shield their eyes.

When they could see again, Bloom and the others saw a wide hole stretching several feet down.

"A good start," said a flushed, sweating and panting Elise as she leaned against Stella's bed.

"Alchemy, it really takes it out of you," said Morgan as she gave Elise another blood concentrate candy, "it's both magically and physically exhausting."

"We'll work in shifts," said Carmen, "taking turns Transmuting the foundations and soil into the tunnel, support materials and fresh oxygen."

"While you Fairies will do your darndest to convince Rosalind and her bully boys that nothing unkosher is going on," said Elise, "assuming nothing goes awry," she then tapped one of the wooden posts on Stella's bed for luck, "this time next week we should be on our way out of Alfea."

"Seven days to freedom," said Terra, "I like the sound of that."

"I like the sound of anything that'll get us out from under Rosalind's thumb," said Stella, while Musa and Aisha nodded in agreement. Stella looked at Bloom, "are you sure you can get Rosalind to tell the truth about what's going on?"

"I'll start to know tomorrow," said Bloom, "it all depends if Rosalind will let me learn Mind Magic.

---

And so there Bloom was, after fully waking, trudging through her morning exercises and facing Rosalind in their private morning session.

"Mind Magic," said Rosalind, "you wish to learn Mind Magic?"

"I think I've gotten as far as I can with Fire Magic for now," said Bloom, "it'll make me stronger if I expand my horizons."

"That I will not argue with," said Rosalind, "but why Mind Magic? One would thing you'd prefer learning another Element, like Water or Wind."

"Mind is just as strong an Element as the others," said Bloom.

"But why Mind Magic?" Rosalind asked, "that's the curiosity."

"I…I guess I want to improve my healing powers," said Bloom as she spun the lie that was only half a lie, "I mean, I'm already able to heal the body, but if I can heal the mind, who knows how many people I can help?"

"Yes, I can see where you're going," said Rosalind, "you can treat wounds of the flesh, so now you wish to treat wounds of the psyche. Yes, this would definitely benefit the coming war if you can restore traumatized soldiers to fighting form."

"Yes, that's exactly what I want," said Bloom. In truth, healing battlefield casualties so they could go fight more was the last thing she wanted, but Bloom knew that feeding Rosalind's ego was necessary, though she did feel like healing those in need in peacetime was a goal she could aspire to.

"Very well, you may begin your studies in Mind Magic," said Rosalind, "but I want something in return."

"Who do you want me to kill?" Bloom asked, instantly regretting her choice of words.

"There'll be time enough for that soon," said Rosalind, "what I wish for now is for your suitemates to join the fight against The Burned Ones."

"You want my friends to come with me when I go out to the forest?" a taken aback Bloom asked. She furiously tried to think of an argument that would convince Rosalind to leave Stella and the others out of the fight.

"It's about time your suitemates contributed their skills for the war effort," said Rosalind, "after all, wars aren't won by individuals, but by armies acting as a team. Yes, Team Winx, I like the sound of that."

"Well, Headmistress," said Bloom, "do you really…"

"We can work on the team name later," said Rosalind, "for now you'd best prepare your friends for action. You're all stepping forth this afternoon!"

---

"You agreed to it?!" Terra asked as she, Musa, Aisha and Stella met in their suite common room, while Carmen sat nearby and Elise worked with Morgan on the escape tunnel, "you agreed to the five of us fighting The Burned Ones!?"

"It's not like I could get my own opinion out," said Bloom, "Rosalind wouldn't even let me finish a sentence. It was like she was writing her own script and I was dragged along in a supporting role."

"I think we've established that Rosalind is certifiably insane," said Carmen as she kept one ear on the door for unwanted guests.

"Was it your Blood Witch instincts that gave it away?" Stella teased.

"This is far from funny, highness," said Carmen, "we're trying to get you girls away from Rosalind, not get further under her thumb."

"She's going to get us killed, that's what!" said Terra, "seriously, I'm going to die this afternoon!"

"Oh, don't be so negative," said Musa, "seriously, you're dragging me down with you."

"Well, forgive me for being realistic," said Terra.

"Oh, come on, Terra," said Aisha, "you can handle yourself in a fight. You did tangle up a Burned One that one time."

"That was just one of those things!" said Terra, "before Bloom got her wings. No offense, Bloom, but with you at full tilt, you're drawing Burned Ones like bees to pollen!"

"You want me to suppress my powers? No problem," said Bloom.

"No, don't," said Carmen, "don't do anything to arouse Rosalind's suspicions."

"Oh, and it's not going to look suspicious to our families when we wind up dead this afternoon?" Terra asked, "let's face it, we're facing certain death! Unless…" she looked at Carmen, "just how strong are you? Have you ever fought a Burned One?"

"Can't say that I have," said Carmen, "but I'd to think that I could crush one like a bug if given the chance. But I won't get it, I'm not going with you."

"Why not?" Terra asked, "Rosalind wants us to go marching into battle, so why not have all the help we can get?"

"I'd help if I wasn't marked for death," said Carmen, "remember, my coven sisters and I aren't supposed to be here. If Rosalind gets even a hint that we're here, she'll tear Alfea apart to put us out of our misery."

"And such a misery it is," said an exhausted Morgan as Elise helped her sit down, "right now, I'd accept the peace of the grave, I'm that bushed."

"We're making excellent progress," said Elise, "another ten meters and we'll be ready to move horizontally towards the forest."

"My sisters and I would love to help you stamp out the charred abominations," said Carmen to Bloom, "but we're otherwise occupied."

"All you girls need to do is stay alive until we've linked up with the other end of the tunnel," said Morgan, "speaking of which, it's your turn, Carmen."

"'Another day older and deeper in debt,'" muttered Carmen as she got up, "and no rest for the awesomely wicked."

"Just what do you hope to get out of all of this?" Musa asked, "besides revenge against Rosalind."

"Not revenge, justice," said Carmen, "and…perhaps…reclaim something that was lost."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Stella asked Carmen went to the tunnel worksite.

"Rosalind destroyed more than our home and families," said Elise, "our culture, our heritage, our right to live."

"And Carmen took it especially hard when she learned why Rosalind picked Aster Dell," said Morgan, "there were plenty of Blood Witch enclaves for her to wipe out, but she picked our village because…"

"Who cares why Rosalind did it?" Terra asked, "she's crazy, that's why, and she's gonna get us killed! I'm not a fighter, not when there's fifty or more Burned Ones screaming for my skin! I won't go, I just won't go, and Rosalind can kiss my ass if she has a problem with it!"

"And such a lovely ass it is," Morgan teased.

"Oh, you think so?" a flattered Terra asked, "never mind! I just won't go."

"Neither will I," said Musa, "not with the toadies and dimwits she's recruited to watch Bloom's back."

"They kept me safe so far," said Bloom, "especially Sky."

"That's because he takes guarding his Fairy partner seriously," said Stella, "if we'd been matched, he'd watch my back just as seriously, even if the rest of our relation was a toxic dump. Then you've got Riven and Dane, and let's not forget how much of a trash boat Beatrix is."

"Well, we don't have to worry about Riven and Beatrix fucking things up," Aisha asked, "I'll go to keep Bloom safe, but I don't trust the others."

"I don't believe this," said Morgan, "this is Alfea, the number one school for Fairies and Specialists in all of Otherworld! There must be some boys and girls here who you trust."

"Oh, I'm sure everyone's good deep down where it counts," said Terra, "just not the ones who sold themselves to Rosalind. The only one who I can think that might help us if we really need them is Dane, and the jury's still out on him."

"But not everyone's jumped on Rosalind's bandwagon, right?" Elise asked, "surely some must be feigning loyalty just to survive."

"Come to think of it, not everyone at Alfea is a card carrying member of Rosalind's fan club," said Terra, "in fact, I can name a few sophomores, juniors and seniors who might be trustworthy."

"I knew some during my first freshman year," said a thoughtful Stella, "I haven't spoken to them since I accidentally blinded Ricki, but they may help if I ask them just right. In fact," she then smiled as an inspiring effulgence shone from her, "I think I know how to convince Rosalind to have them come along."

---

"Your 'Crowned Princess Guard?'" Rosalind asked as Stella, Terra and Aisha sat before her in her office, with Griselda Marsten standing with a list in her hands and a disapproving look on her face.

"Yes, Headmistress," said Stella, "if I am to sally forth onto the battlefield, I should have those I trust as my personal protectors."

"As is tradition for the heir to the throne of Solaria," said Aisha, "Stella's well within her rights to choose those who would become her core bodyguards when she is crowned Queen."

"And these are the ones you wish to trust your life with, Princess Stella?" Griselda Marsten asked as she indicated the list, "I have to admit, this whole situation is a bad idea, Headmistress. Far too many things can go wrong with so many undertrained students with questionable loyalties. Be honest, Stella, do you truly wish to trust your life with your classmates?"

"I trust them more than I trust you, Grizzly," Stella muttered.

"What was that, Princess?!" Griselda asked as she raised her hand to strike.

"I was saying that I trust my friends and their friends," said Stella as she flinched from Griselda's power-suppressing slap.

"Stella knew some of them from her first 1st Year," said Terra, "and I knew all of them long before you came back."

"We know you grew up at Alfea, Ms. Harvey," said Griselda, "you were practically Alfea's mascot."

"Well, I wouldn't go that far," said Terra as she blushed with modest embarrassment, "more like a walking, talking good luck charm, and I didn't even need a luck-charging enchantment, then again…"

"If we could get back to your choice of protectors, Stella," said Rosalind, "exactly how do you know them? Friendship isn't exactly your strong point according to your records from your failed year."

"Records don't say everything, Headmistress," said Stella, "and I was friends with them, I mean, my friend Ricki was friends with them and they were my friends by association."

"Travis Quinn and Rachael Bachman," said Griselda as she read from the list, "both 2nd Year Water Fairies, Joshua Samuels, 2nd Year Wind, while Danni Iverson, Kevin Holliston, and the twins Evan and Ellen Wallace, all 2nd Year Specialists." She looked at Stella inquisitively, "and they're willing to pledge their lives in your service out of loyalty to the girl you blinded last year?"

"It was an accident, Ms. Marsten," said Stella defiantly as she stood up, "her friends are willing to let bygones be bygones. They're ready to fight for the future of Solaria."

"As are the guys I picked," said Terra as she stood with Stella, "I know they'd fight and die for their kingdom!"

"Amanda Bell, 4th Year Specialist," said Rosalind as she read from her copy of the list, "Simon Crux and Bethany Greenhill, 3rd Year Specialists, Bethany's little sister, Kate, 1st Year Specialist. Chrissie Chesterton, 4th Year Nature Fairy, Calvin Westing 3rd Year Mind and his little sister Liza, 1st Year Mind. All in all, not the most diverse group of defenders, yet…"

"They're all eager to serve," said Aisha, "I know, I talked to them with Terra and Stella."

"And you believe they'd do a better job of protecting the Princess than the ones the Headmistress would select?" Griselda asked, "that they wouldn't serve their utmost for the heir to the throne?"

"Skills and loyalty aren't all that makes a Royal Guardsperson," said Stella, "it takes friendship and trust, and most of all love for the kingdom and its future ruler, to willingly sacrifice themselves."

"My dear Stella," said Griselda as she smiled slightly, "there may be hope for you yet. Headmistress, Stella's Company has my approval."

"As do I," said Rosalind, "I would like to interview these protectors personally, but time is wasting today, I'd like to get out with Bloom while the sun is shining."

---

"I still can't believe that worked," said A slightly giddy Stella as she, Aisha and Terra walked through the hallways of Alfea.

"I still can't believe you two convinced fourteen students to be Stella's bodyguards," said Aisha, "and all in less than an hour."

"I can believe it," said Terra, "we had a very logical argument for it: Stella wants to tick off her mother."

"Yes, well, mum thinks I'm old enough to get married," said Stella, "so I should be old enough to have my retinue of protectors."

"Age and maturity are completely different things, Stella," said Griselda as she appeared behind the three girls, startling them.

"Uh…Ms. Marsten, I…we were…" said Stella nervously as she eyed Griselda's hands.

"I don't know what game you and your compatriots are playing, Princess," said Griselda, "but know this; if it compromises the integrity of Alfea in any shape or form, you will answer to me, is that understood!?" She then glared at Aisha and Terra, who flinched back involuntarily from Griselda's baleful gaze, "and the same goes for the rest of you!" With that she turned and walked away.

"I don't know who scares me more," said Terra, "her or The Burned Ones?"

---

"I stand corrected," said Terra nervously, "The Burned Ones, they scare me more!"

Our heroines and their new protectors were positioning themselves in another clearing in the forest, once again preparing to ambush a contingent of Burned Ones. Utilizing the aborted strategy from yesterday, Rosalind had her chosen Fairies and Specialists, as well as the ones picked for Stella's Company, in a circle around Bloom, who will channel her power into fire channels for the fell creatures ensnared by the concealed pit.

"I expect to get at least forty today," said Andreas as he stood supervising the placements, "if all goes well with the plan."

"With all due respect, Headmaster Andreas," said Amanda Bell as she strapped on a pair of fighting gloves, "you of all people should know that no battle plan survives the opening minutes."

"Of course, I should know how chaotic a battle becomes ones it begins," said Andreas, "nevertheless, we will prevail, both today and in future battles, for the glory of Alfea and Solaria and beyond, until all of Otherworld is free of the pestilence of The Burned Ones!"

"Bravo, Headmaster," said Amanda as she clapped ironically, "a stirring performance worthy of awards and accolades." She then turned towards her friends and mimed gagging on her fingers, to which the others stifled laughter and smirks.

---

"I can't believe you convinced our tyrant of a Headmistress to let us keep Stella safe," said Chrissie Chesterton as she held out her right arm, a length of rose vine slinking along it without its thorns hurting her, "and by association you and the rest of The Winx. But one question remains; why now?"

"Can you keep a secret?" Terra asked.

"Of course, what are friends for?" Amanda asked.

"So can I," said Terra cheekily.

---

"There's something bothering you," said Sky as he stood next to Bloom, who was leaning against a tree with her nose in a book on Mind Magic.

"Gee, is it the fact that I'm basically a living weapon for Rosalind's discreet use?" Bloom asked, "or that I'm reading before a fight?"

"I'm being serious, Bloom," said Sky, "there's something on your mind and I'm worried it's distracting you."

"The only thing distracting me is you breaking my concentration," said Bloom as she slammed her book shut, "And you seem far too focused on the wrong thing."

"What are you talking about?" Sky asked.

"Do you really need to ask?" said Bloom, "Rosalind marches in and takes over Alfea and all of a sudden, it's 'Hi Ho, Hi Ho, It's Off To War We Go!' Doesn't it strike you as wrong?"

"No, not really," said a thoughtful Sky, "it's just, The Burned Ones…"

"I know how dangerous The Burned Ones are, Sky," said Bloom, "I'm the one they really want to kill. How do you think I feel being a living target? Every time Rosalind has me go out to fight, I'm putting you and the others at risk. Suppose one gets close enough to wound you and gets away? What if you die before I find the fiend? What if it happens to Stella and the others?"

"It won't happen like that," said Sky, "I trust you'll destroy the creatures if anyone gets hurt. And you won't get hurt with me watching your back, that's all that counts."

Further discussion was postponed by the trademarked screech of the charred abominations.

"Oh, party's starting!" said Amanda as she tightened the straps on her fighting gloves, "Let's Go!"

Closer and closer came the din of the Burned Ones, at least twenty this time by Bloom's reckoning.

"Man Jesus," said Specialist Bethany Greenhill as she stood with a massive wood club with iron studs leaning on one shoulder, while her younger sister, Kate used the remaining seconds before the battle to choose from a selection of knives.

"Seriously, Jesus Christ! Those things really hate you, Peters," said Bethany.

"They just know I'm the one who can end their sufferings," said Bloom as she channeled more power, her wings flaring brighter and hotter, while the screeching of The Burned Ones grew louder as they ran faster, "that I'm the only one who can break whatever curse created them long ago."

"Well, I don't envy you, Peters," said Bethany as she swung her Kanabo as easily as a baseball bat, "I wouldn't ask for your powers even if my life was at risk. All I've to worry about is super strength and making sure my sister doesn't get killed on her first real battle."

"I've had plenty battles, big sis!" said Kate Greenhill, "you just thwap the crispy ones that get too close, but save one for me."

But then the horde of charred abominations charged through the clearing, making a beeline for Bloom.

"Uh…is it too late to change courses at school?" a nervous Kate asked.

Yet her fears proved unfounded as all twenty Burned Ones fell into the concealed pit, their cries of fury and rage resonating from fifty feet down.

"Oh, if they weren't mad before, they're mad now," said Amanda as the creatures clamored over each other to get out.

"Now, Bloom!" shouted Chrissie, "do it now!"

Bloom unleashed her fire into the channels, sending the purifying flames into the pit. One by one the inner Cinders of the creatures were cleansed, releasing that individual from its tormenting curse and granting the ancient warrior within a peaceful end long denied.

But one of the abominations, one bigger than the others, jumped out of the pit before Bloom's fire could affect it. Bellowing with fury, it charged towards Bloom, swatting aside the Fairies and Specialists Rosalind chose, including Biggs and Wedge.

"Well, this is definitely a sticky situation," said Wedge as he clutched at his bleeding arm.

"We're infected by Burned One sickness and facing a lingering, agonizing death and you're making puns?!" exclaimed Biggs as he clasped one hand over his wounded face.

Finished thrashing Rosalind's chosen, the massive Burned One rushed towards Bloom, who calmly stood her ground and unleashed her flames upon it. Yet the intense blast of Dragon Flame only slowed it down.

"That's not supposed to happen," said Terra as she and the others saw the creature forced its way closer to Bloom one step at a time. "I mean, isn't it supposed to fall down after she snuffs out its Cinder?"

"It's too big!" said Musa, "it's too strong! Bloom! You need to poor it on harder!"

"What do you think I'm doing?!" shouted Bloom as she leaned into her attack, yet her stream of fire only seemed to increase the creature's rage. Bloom suddenly gasped and collapsed to her knees, her wings of fire flickering and threatening to go out as exhaustion took hold.

"BLOOM!" said Sky as he helped her stand up, yet he had to pull both of them away as the massive Burned One, screeching with triumph, slashed at them. It then cried out in pain as twin beams of blinding light hit its eyes.

"No, you don't big guy!" shouted Stella, "and if you think that was a dazzling display, you haven't seen anything yet!" Yet her follow up attack was negated when Chrissie Chesterton grabbed Stella.

"Protect the Princess!" shouted Chrissie as she tried to drag Stella off the battlefield.

"It's not me that thing wants!" shouted Stella as she shook Chrissie off, "I won't let that horror kill Bloom!"

"And we won't let you get yourself killed!" said 2nd year Water Fairy Rachael Bachman, "if you won't stay safe for yourself, do it for Ricki."

"And leave the dangerous bit for us!" said 2nd Year Specialist Danni Iverson as she hefted a War Hammer. She charged at the massive Burned One, flanked by the Wallace Twins, each armed with a cudgel and mace. All three displayed incredible speed and agility as they dodged the creature's deadly slashes and responded with pummeling attacks of their own.

"That asshole's hide is too thick!" said 3rd Year Mind Fairy Calvin Westing, "we need a new strategy!"

"I've got just the plan in mind," said Chrissie, "not pun intended. Aisha, Terra, I need your help!" with that she summoned dozens of vines and roots that ensnared the massive Burned One, yet the creature's abominable strength allowed it snap its organic restraints.

"I think I know where you're going!" said Rachael as she and her fellow 2nd Year Water Fairy Travis Quinn flooded the ground around the creature, while Chrissie summoned more vines and roots. Aisha and Terra added their gifts to the mixture and within seconds the gargantuan creature was trapped waist deep in mud and was tangled by its arms and head, leaving its torso exposed.

"Now this is a sticky situation," said Chrissie as she wiped her hands satisfactorily, "pun intended. Bloom, he's all yours."

"Sorry, Chrissie," said Bloom as she leaned against Sky, "I used too much magic. I need to recharge."

"Well then," said Andreas as he drew his sword and confidently advanced on the restrained Burned One, "we'll just have to finish it off the old fashion way!" With a dramatic flourish of his blade, Andreas aimed and drove the point towards the upper left torso of the creature with the intention of impaling and extinguishing its Cinder.

Yet Andreas's sword point broke off the Burned One's thick hide, leaving Andreas dumfounded at the severed tip of his blade. His confoundedness was broken when a strange sound emanated from the restrained creature, a sound like grating laughter.

"What…are you…are you mocking me?!" Andreas demanded.

"Of course, we mock you!" said the creature in a voice like hot coals grinding together under pressure.

"Holy Pink Fluffy Unicorns Dancing on Rainbows!" exclaimed Kate Greenhill, "it can talk?!"

"No way, no way is that thing talking!" said Terra.

"Unless someone's playing a joke in very bad taste, it is talking," said Aisha.

"Maybe it's different from the others," Bloom said Burned One as she and Sky got closer.

"Bloom, get back!" said Stella, "whatever's going on, don't get too close! Remember, they really, really hate you."

"Indeed, we hate her," said the trapped Burned One, "The Changeling has the power to destroy us. This cannot be allowed!"

"But why?" Bloom asked, "you…you were a soldier in the ancient war, kept alive by dark magic. My power can set you free and allow you to finally rest peacefully."

"You seek to destroy us!" said the restrained Burned One, "just as you seek to destroy our Master!"

"Your master," said Musa as she got closer, yet flinched back as she sensed the raging torrent of emotion from the creature, "and you keep saying 'we' and 'our.' Who are you?"

"The Dark Legion," said the large Burned One, "one of the many servants of He who is the rightful Master of this world and others!"

"Who?" Andreas asked, "who do you serve?"

"THE SHADOW PHOENIX!" bellowed the creature.

"The what?" Bloom asked as an intense flash of cold fear passed through her, "Shadow Phoenix? Who or what is that?"

"Nothing for you to concern yourself with," said Andreas, "just finish off the damned thing so we can report back to Rosalind."

"Oh yes, tell her," said the restrained Burned One, "tell her who defies the will of The Shadow Phoenix. Tell her that the time of His return grows closer, that nothing she does deters his will!"

"Shut Up!" shouted Andreas as he rammed the remains of his sword at the creature, yet the blade barely scratched it, "Bloom, don't just stand there, torch the damned thing!"

"She's too tired, Father!" Sky said, "Bloom needs to recharge at The Stone Circle."

"There's no time for that!" said Andreas, "we need to destroy this grunt and send a message to his boss! Someone give me another sword!"

"Fool of a Specialist!" said the large Burned One, "we have been augmented to withstand the hardest and sharpest of Solarian Steel! No blade you wield can pierce our flesh!"

At that Bethany swung her kanabo at the head of the creature as hard as she could, the impact of the studded club inflicting several cracks on its face, "then we'll keep hitting you until you break, asshole!"

She swung again, this time hitting the torso where its Cinder lay, resulting in multiple cracks and howls of fury from the creature.

"Keep going, Sis!" shouted Kate, "smash that thing open and I'll cut up its Cinder real nice!"

At that the restrained abomination flexed against the constricting vines and roots, snapping several while rising slightly from the mud.

"It's breaking loose!" shouted Bethany. She swung her kanabo, yet the creature freed one arm and grabbed the studded club. It pulled the kanabo from Bethany's grip, then threw it at her as it freed its other arm, then pulled itself free of the mud.

"Protect the Princess!" shouted Chrissie as shielded Stella from the rampaging abomination. From her right arm shot the lengths of thorny rose vines that lashed at the giant Burned One, while Amanda rushed in. She ducked a claw swipe before countering with a hard right punch that staggered the creature back a pace.

"Wow, she's really strong," said an impressed Stella. She then looked at Chrissie, who used her vines to trip up the large Burned One, "you're pretty amazing yourself!"

"Just gifted, Princess Stella," said Chrissie, "just gi-"

That's all Chrissie could say before the creature grabbed the vines and yanked her off her feet, then swung her into a nearby tree.

Travis, Rachael and 2nd Year Wind Fairy Joshua Samuels then blasted the creature with a makeshift thunderstorm, while the Westing siblings staggered its mind with a joint mind attack.

This was the opening Bethany hoped for as she grabbed her kanabo, charged in and, with all her strength, shattered the armor covering the creature's torso, exposing a darkly glowing object within.

"That's the Cinder! It's Exposed!" said Sky, "Bloom, can you…?"

"I think so," said Bloom as she all her remaining power into her right index tip. Taking aim like a gin, Bloom shot a blast of fire right into the exposed essence of the large Burned One. There was a flash and the Cinder was extinguished. With a massive sigh of relief, the creature collapsed to the ground, its charred exterior dissolving, revealing the dead ancient soldier within, at long last at peace.

"Now it's over," said Chrissie as Terra helped her up, wincing at a broken arm and bruises from head to toe.

"What the Fuck, Headmaster!?" Amanda asked Andreas, "why didn't you tell us there were big ones like that?! That can talk no less!"

"Did you see its claws?" Kate asked, "that thing could've sliced us in half."

"Seriously, Headmaster, why didn't you warn us?" both Wallace twins asked.

"Either he didn't know…" said Ellen.

"…or he didn't care." said Evan.

"Either way, Father," said Sky, "I think you or Rosalind owes us an explanation.

"Starting with who or what is The Shadow Phoenix," said Bloom.

SLASH

Pain beyond description blazed from Bloom's back and resounded through every cell in her body. She fell to the ground, passing out from the sheer agony.

---

"...Bloom…"

"I'm here!" Bloom shouted as she swam through the reef, "I hear you, but I can't see you!"

She saw the orange and gold flash pass in front of her, "stop flitting around so we can talk! Seriously! You keep calling me here to talk to me but I can't if you won't hold still!"

This finally got the presence's attention and it stopped, finally allowing Bloom a better look.

She saw a tall, willowy woman with shoulder-length, curly blond hair stylized in pigtails. She wore a long, form-fitting yellow gown that flowed like living silk, but what stood out the most to Bloom was the woman's glowing orange mask and golden crown set with red jewels and outspread angelic wings.

"Forgive me, Bloom," said the ethereal woman, "forced beyond my control prevented me from speaking to you more clearly, otherwise our reunion would've been much clearer."

"Reunion? We met before?" Bloom asked.

"I knew you when you were but a newborn," said the woman, "just as I knew your birth parents and their parents. I've known your family for over a thousand years."

"So…does that make you my family's guardian angel or something?" Bloom asked.

"More like a guardian Nymph," said the woman, "I've watched over your family for so long, I've become part of it. Think of me as your spiritual sister."

"My sister," said an astonished Bloom as a thousand questions jammed up in her mind. The most prominent ones found their way to her voice, "you knew my birth parents? Who were they and what happened to them? And how come I've got The Dragon Flame?"

"There's so much I want to tell you, Bloom," said the woman, "but it's taking all my concentration to connect to you in your dreams. Come to me in the waking world. Come to me at Lake Roccaluche, and you will find your answers."

At that the coral reef and waters began to fade. "No, not now!" said Bloom, "I don't want to wake up! Not yet!"

"Find me, Bloom!" said the woman as she too faded and her voice echoed from a distance, "find me before it is too late!"

"Who are you?!" Bloom demanded, clinging to the dream for just a few more seconds, "how can I trust you? I don't even know your name!"

She barely heard the woman's response as Bloom's eyes opened, "my name…is…"

---

"Daphne!" said Bloom as she came awake on her stomach in the Alfea infirmary, her back afire with a raw wound chafing against a rough bandage.

"Easy, Bloom!" said Ben Harvey as he held her down, "it's alright, you were wounded by a Burned One, but the danger is past."

"A…I got hit by a Burned One?" Bloom asked.

"You're lucky it was just one," said Professor Harvey, "and lucky it wasn't worse than it was. If that undead nightmare was just a little stronger or an inch closer to you, it might've severed your spine. As it is, it sliced you across the muscle, but it was close enough to the spine for the infection to make a leap up into your brain and lest you a gibbering lunatic before you died, I've seen it happen in similar wounds."

"Well, I'm not dead," said Bloom, "and aside from a very sore back, I don't feel any worse, so someone killed the one that blindsided me, how did that happen by the way?"

"I wasn't there, but apparently Rosalind's plan didn't account for all the creatures that were ensnared today," said Professor Harvey.

"Alright, Dad, that's enough!" said Terra as she, Musa, Aisha and Stella hurried in, "she's had quite enough ministrations for the moment."

"Now it's BFFL time," said Musa, "and if you or anyone else come in saying Bloom needs her rest, I'll know, and I will get even, somehow."

"I don't trust him," said Stella in a hushed voice as Terra gently but firmly escorted her father out of the room, "not fully, no offence to our friend there."

"At this point, I'm just glad to be alive," said Bloom, "so, what happened? How'd we miss one of those things?"

"Apparently The Burned Ones are getting better at hiding in trees," said Aisha, "And can run faster."

"The one that got you moved so fast, we didn't even know you were hurt until you screamed," said Musa, "and what a scream it was."

"We all thought you were gonna die," said Terra, "you wouldn't stop thrashing around, you were hurting so much. We used up a whole jar of Tunbaq just to slow down the infection long enough to get you back to Alfea."

"I don't remember any of that," said an astonished Bloom reflecting on her dream with the Nymph Daphne. Daphne, she finally know the woman's name and where to find her, "you're gonna think I've gone crazy or something…"

"Gosh, have you?" Stella asked, "one wouldn't think so considering how mad our lives have become."

"This is beyond crazy," said Bloom, "but it can wait. I'm obviously out of danger, so what happened with that fast Burned One? Who took it out?"

"Sky," said Musa, "after you went down, Sky chased after the Burned One. He must've chased after it for hours, but when he got it, you finally calmed down and the infection dissipated early in the morning."

"Early?" Bloom asked, "how…never mind, I need to get out of here."

"You're not going anywhere until my dad says you're okay to go back to the suite," said Terra, "wounds that close to the spine are worth waiting for."

"And we get to tell you what happened, oh you're not going to believe what happened," said a gleeful Stella, "Amanda broke Rosalind's nose!"

"She did?" Bloom asked.

"Yes, and under different circumstances," said Rosalind as she walked in with her nose bandaged and an icepack in one hand, "Young Ms. Bell would be expelled and under arrest for assault and battery. Nevertheless, she's merely confined to her rooms until I can think of a suitable punishment. Talent like hers is worth holding on to."

She bade Stella and the others to move aside so she could sit next to Bloom, "I cannot express how sorry I am for what happened, Bloom, and how relieved at your recovery from the infection. Had you died, I…"

"I'm not dead," said Bloom, "not today." There was so much more Bloom wanted to say, specifically how Rosalind saw her as nothing more than an asset.

"Had I known, Bloom," said Rosalind, "had I known The Burned Ones were capable of such feats. Had I known they were evolving, that there was a controlling intelligence, I would never have put you and the others at such reckless risk."

"Would you?" Stella asked, only for Aisha to elbow her in the ribs.

"Well, we know better now," said Bloom, "and we'll know better next time."

"Are you mad?!" exclaimed Terra, "of course you're mad, the infection must've reached your brain after all!" She glared at Rosalind, "there is now way you're sending Bloom out again after what happened!"

"She means we need to rethink how to fight The Burned Ones, Headmistress," said Aisha hastily.

"No, I mean you're not using Bloom as a weapon anymore!" said Terra, "I won't stand for it!"

"Would you rather sit down for it?" Rosalind asked calmly, yet the threat of agony was clear enough for Terra to flinch back.

"It's alright, Terra," said Bloom, "your dad said I'll make a full recovery, right? So as soon as I'm fit to fight, I'll fight."

"That's the spirit!" said Rosalind, "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger!" She then looked at Stella and the others, "now, I suggest you four go back to your dorm and let our brave friend here rest."

Realizing Rosalind had her foot down, Stella and the others made their goodbyes to Bloom, promising to visit later, and planned another pizza pajama party once she was clear to leave the infirmary.

"I suggest you go back to sleep too, Bloom," said Rosalind, "rest well for the next few days, you've earned it."

"Headmistress," said Bloom, "before you go, there's a few things I need answers to."

"I still haven't found your birth parents, if that's what your wondering," said Rosalind,

"I meant Sky," said Bloom, "is he alright?"

"Is he alright?" Rosalind asked, "he's more than alright! Young Sky of Eraklyon chased after that Burned One for hours, on foot! By the time Andreas had caught up with his son, Sky had ran down and vanquished the offending creature all by his lonesome. He's back in his rooms now, understandably exhausted, while Andreas is thrilled beyond measure, and rather excited myself.

"Young Sky tapped into a family legacy, a Specialist ability that allows one to fight longer and harder beyond normal limits, The Boost as Andreas calls it. Naturally, Sky has a long way to go before he can master his new power, but he's taken the first step, just as we've all taken another step towards winning the war."

"That's the other thing I want to ask about," said Bloom as she focused the Mind Magic technique she leaned, for now was as good a time as any to practice, "that big, talking Burned One, it said it served The Shadow Phoenix."

At that Rosalind visibly shook and had to catch her breath. Bloom inwardly smirked at throwing Rosalind for a loop, while her blue eyes glowed slightly purple. Bloom hoped the overhead lights of the infirmary would conceal the change.

Bloom then saw a slight aura around Rosalind that vibrated with inner unease.

"The Shadow Phoenix," said Rosalind, "there's a name I hoped we wouldn't hear for some time. I fear the war is coming sooner than expected."

"But who or what is The Shadow Phoenix?" Bloom asked as she tried to lean up, yet the wound on her back kept her flat on her stomach.

"It, He," said Rosalind, "was a necromancer from long, long ago. Darkar, Lord of Shadowhaunt. Over a thousand years ago, Darkar raged a conflict of conquest that nearly reduced Otherworld to ashes. He commanded vast armies, both living and undead."

"The Burned Ones," said Bloom.

"Soldiers under Darkar's command," said Rosalind, "in the final battle of the war that saw Darkar's downfall, a wielder of The Dragon Flame vanquished hundreds of thousands of His soldiers, yet Darkar's influence was so powerful, even after His defeat, His armies would not find peace, for Darkar, defeat, was not destroyed."

"And now he's coming back," said Bloom as she saw the sincere gleam from Rosalind's aura, knowing Rosalind was telling the truth, or at least she believed it was the truth, for Mind Magic can be tricky.

"Can we stop him?" Bloom asked.

"I sincerely hope so," said Rosalind, "but that is for tomorrow and beyond. Right now, you need to rest and regain your strength. As soon as you're clear to leave the infirmary, you have a date with The Stone Circle. There's so much to do and so little time."

"Just one more question, Headmistress," said Bloom as Rosalind got up to leave, "have you ever heard of Daphne of Lake Roccaluche?"

Again Bloom saw the flicker in Rosalind's aura, indicating a touched nerve, "Daphne of Lake Roccaluche, where did you hear that name?"

"Just something I read in history class," said Bloom, "it just popped back into my head, so I figured on asking while I had your attention."

"Daphne was one of the legendary Guardian Nymphs of Otherworld," said Rosalind, "they'd watch over the realms and families with gifted bloodlines, according to legend, for that is all that they are, myth and legend, especially Daphne. Her home, Lake Roccaluche, dried up years ago. Now, enough questions. Rest up, that's an order."

"Yes, ma'am," said Bloom, "I'd salute, but I don't want to move too much right now."

Rosalind smiled her understanding and left Bloom alone with her thoughts, for though some questions had been answered, more came up. But as Bloom's eyes returned to normal and she slipped into a dreamless, sleep, two things were certain; Rosalind was telling the truth as she saw it about Darkar and Daphne, and she had to get Sky away from Rosalind and Andreas.

---

"So, you've realized a superpower or something," said Riven as he sat in Sky's room. Sky, looking more tired than ever, paced restlessly with worry for Bloom. Try as he would, there was no denying it: he was falling for Bloom. His reaction to seeing Bloom struck down by a Burned One proved it.

"It's a family gift or curse," said Sky, "according to Father, The Boost can keep you alive on the battlefield, or kill you if abused. More than one of my ancestors burned themselves out by Boosting too much."

At that Riven laughed, "and here I thought I had a chance. All this time, you've had this in you and never knew. I never stood a chance of besting you."

"You can have the power if you want," said Sky, "I'd rather take my chances without than risk abusing it, so if I can get rid of it…"

"No thank you," said Riven, "I'm fine with what I've got, assuming old Rosie ungrounds me."

"How's detox going, by the way?" Sky asked.

At that Riven sighed, "they say weed isn't addictive, but right now I'd tear my way through a field of Burned Ones for one hit. I just hope Beatrix is just as miserable as I am. But out of curiosity, how was it? Boosting."

"It was…" said Sky as he tried to remember what happened, "it was like time slowed down and I could see tiny details of the forest you wouldn't normally notice, like the whiskers on a chipmunk, or how a spider drinks a drop of water.

"All the while I was following the trail of that Burned One. I don't know how long I ran after it, only that I was closing in bit by bit. I finally caught up with the bastard and…I guess I saw red. By the time I could see clear again, the Burned One was dead and my Father was helping me back to Alfea."

"Wow, you really lost it," said Riven, "at least I can blame my stupidity on drugs, your problem is genetic."

"At least one of us can do something about our problems," said Sky, "god knows what will happen if I lose control like that again."

"Not if our glorious Headmaster and Mistress have anything to say about it," said Riven, "Beatrix was right about your dad and old Rosie playing favorites. Now that Bloom's proven her limitations, it wouldn't surprise me if you're their weapon in the coming war."

---

"And now Sky's got a power!" said Beatrix as she vented her rage on the shadowy Francesca, "or at least that's what I heard." She then smiled, "but you know my favorite part? Bloom got what was coming to her. From what I heard, she's lucky she's not paralyzed."

"What's lucky is that Bloom revealed her limitations," said Francesca, "despite Rosalind's passionate instruction, Bloom Peters has yet to realize her full potential, which means we still have the advantage."

"You've yet to tell me who this 'we' is," said Beatrix, "does it have anything to do with The Shadow Phoenix?"

At that Francesca glowered at Beatrix, "how do you know about The Shadow Phoenix?"

"It's what everyone's talking about since Bloom and her bosom buddies got back from the battle," said Beatrix, "that and the big, talking Burned One, another tidbit you've held back from me."

"There's a lot I've held back for my own reasons," said Francesca, "nevertheless, yes, The Shadow Phoenix is real, or at least, He was real. If you do commit to this course, you will be pledging yourself, in body and soul, to the restoration of Lord Darkar and the subjugation of Otherworld to His will."

"I'm all but sold to the cause already," said Beatrix, "but I'd like to hear about the benefits."

"All your dark dreams and most depraved desires will be yours," said Francesca, "but you've yet to fully prove yourself to those I work with, and you'll have to do so soon. Now that Rosalind is aware of Lord Darkar's intent to return, you'll have to leave Alfea before you're discovered."

"Leave Alfea?" Beatrix asked, realizing she would indeed be giving up everything and starting over. That meant truly betraying Andreas, the man who raised her from infancy and taught her everything she knew. As for betraying Rosalind, well, she had been raised to almost worship Rosalind.

On the other hand, recent events had fractured Beatrix's faith in her adopted father and Headmistress, while providing targets for the inner anger that festered in her heart since she learned of the destruction of her home and family sixteen years ago.

"When do we leave?" Beatrix asked.

"As soon as we can get you into the restricted sections of Alfea's library," said Francesca, "there's some rare books on dark magic my associates would like you to study up on."

"Aren't my powers dark enough?" Beatrix asked, "if I so wished, I could level Alfea with a tornado!"

"Not with Alfea's protections in place," said Francesca, "and with Rosalind's added wards, you'd be lucky to break a few windows. No, dear sister of my heart, you're a little behind in the dark magic department."

"And you're so much ahead of me?" Beatrix asked.

"I was raised on the dark arts," said Francesca, "but with your brains and natural talents, you'll be caught up in no time. But first we need those books, and figure out how much damage your can inflict upon your departure."

At that Beatrix gave a sinister smile, "I've a few ideas in that department. I may not be as wicked as you are, but I've got a devious imagination."

"Tell me more, dearest Beatrix," said Francesca, "tell me more."

---

While events unfolded at Alfea, another plot was unfolding at The Iridescence Institute. On the surface, Iridescence was a highly respected psychiatric hospital where nobles and commoners alike received the best in mental care and recovery. Yet beneath the immaculate corridors and wards of mental health and healers, a sinister secret festered like a cancer.

Far beneath the hospital's foundations was a series of caves that served as a prison for the worst of Otherworld's criminals. Simply known as Omega, this prison was a living hell as enchantments on the caves altered the climate of the cells. One minute it was freezing cold, the next it was swelteringly hot.

Serial killers, rapists and traitors, or at least those accused of varying heinous crimes, suffered as more than unpredictable environments tormented them for their alleged crimes, and among those condemned, or at least awaiting trial for their trials, was Saul Silva.

But for the moment, the former Specialist Headmaster was free of unjust torment as he sat in a shielded chamber, waiting in confused silence. So far his jailors had said not a word to him, not one since he was thrown in after Andreas returned from the dead and falsely accused him of attempted murder. The silence was both disturbing and blissful, for at least here he couldn't hear the screams of his fellow inmates.

Finally, the door to the chamber opened and in limped on an arm crutch was the last person Saul Silva expected to ever see.

"Thank you so much," said Patricia Walker to one of the silent guards. She wore a pinstripe suit and tie with heavy glasses and her hair stylized in a no-nonsense bun, while in her free hand was a heavy briefcase. "I'm glad we could come to an understanding. And just so you know, I don't morally censure you, I just want my client to receive his justly due rights."

The guard nodded in acknowledgement and closed the door.

"Patricia," said Silva as he stood up, "how did…what are you doing here?"

"Hold that thought, Saul," said Patricia as she bade Silva sit back down. She pulled out what appeared to be a digital tape recorder and activated it, "there, no doubt Omega's Correction Officers are listening in on every word we say, but this little wonder will make them hear only legal nonsense and my reassurance of your impending acquittal."

She then looked at Silva, "I'll bet you're wondering what I'm doing here masquerading as your advocate. It wasn't easy, I'll tell you that. As an accused attempted murderer of Solaria's greatest hero, you've officially been stripped of most of your legal rights, including the right to legal representation."

"I figured as much," said Silva, "just by being here. Omega is where they place wrongdoers the crown wishes to forget."

"It certainly wasn't easy getting in," said Patricia, "I had to bribe and blackmail no less than a dozen guards and administrators, just to have ten minutes alone with you."

At that Silva gave a cheeky smile, "a lot can happen in ten minutes if you know what to do with them."

"Be serious will you?" an annoyed Patricia asked, "I'm trying to get you out of here before our shared enemies decide you're too dangerous to live, especially with your version of what happened to Andreas."

"My version of the truth is the truth!" said Silva, "Andreas drew his blade after I confronted him on Rosalind's plan to destroy Aster Dell."

"But you did stab and leave him to die," said Patricia.

"There wasn't time to get help for him," said Silva, "I had to stop Rosalind, but I was too late. If I'm guilty of anything, it's failure to prevent a greater crime than attempted murder. If anyone's guilty of murder, it's that lying bitch, Rosalind!"

"You do realize she killed my mother, right?" Patricia asked.

"I know your mother would've fought tooth and nail before Rosalind took back Alfea," said Silva, "Otherworld is a much darker place without her. So, what's the plan on getting me out of here?"

At that Patricia looked rather embarrassed, "that's…getting your release will be problematic, not just because I'm no solicitor."

"You don't have a plan, do you," said Silva in a disappointed yet understanding tone.

"Oh, there's a plan, alright," said Patricia, "it involves getting Andreas to admit the truth."

"He won't," said Silva, "not after nursing a grudge for sixteen years. And with Rosalind and Queen Luna behind him, Andreas's testimony will be my doom, assuming I'm still alive when they decide to go to trial."

"If all goes according to plan," said Patricia, "you might be exonerated in a matter of days. It all depends on a certain someone with a price on his head, a certain former Specialist Andreas falsely accused of treason."

"Max Kildare?" said Silva, "he's still alive?"

"Alive and ready for vengeance," said Patricia, "and he's not the only one with a hard on for revenge against Andreas. He, Rosalind and Queen Luna made plenty of enemies that they've overlooked. We just need you to hold on and don't get killed in here."

"That'll be more difficult than you realize," said Silva, "I may try to escape on my own, for Sky's sake. Just thinking about what Andreas is doing to corrupt the boy makes my blood boil."

"I'm not happy either," said Patricia, "I often fantasize about gunning down Rosalind, and I would, if I knew I'd never get close enough to pull the trigger. Remember," she indicated her arm crutch, "she's the one who crippled me."

"Remind me what you said that pissed her off so," said Silva.

"I just told her what she truly was and always would be," said Patricia, "she didn't like it. Now, I know how much you care for Sky. I'd kill Andreas if I could get away with it, just to save Sky from corruption. I'd try to kill Rosalind to spare Bloom Peters from the same corruption."

"Oh, Bloom, how is she doing?" Silva asked.

"I hate to admit it, but Rosalind's teachings are making her stronger," said Patricia, "she may well be the one who'll rid Otherworld of The Burned Ones once and for all, assuming Rosalind doesn't get her killed or driven to the dark side in the process, and the rest of Alfea's student body while she's at it."

"Then what's the plan already?" Silva asked, cursing and wishing for what must've been the thousandth time for some means of keeping track of time in Omega.

"We're going to humiliate Rosalind, Andreas and Luna," said Patricia, "destroy their reputations and you cut their power in half."

At that Silva smiled, "I like it already."

---

A full forty-eight hours later, bloom was discharged from the infirmary and back at the Winx Suite, only to wish herself otherwise when she was greeted by a loud party favor explosion.

"SURPRISE! HAPPY RECOVERY PARTY!" shouted Morgan. Bloom saw that it was indeed a party as she saw the common area of her dorm decked out with streamers, balloons, confetti bombs and an upbeat dance remix blaring from multiple speakers.

"Are you crazy!?" Bloom demanded as she grabbed Morgan by the shoulders, "do you want Rosalind to come barging in with a noise complaint?!"

"I often wonder if she wasn't dropped on her head in her youth," said Carmen as she handed out plastic cups of hard fruit punch, "I tried to talk her out of it, but once Morgan has set herself to throwing a party, not even the Second Coming of Zarquon will stop her."

"It's totally cool, Bloom," said Morgan, "Musa and I mixed powers to totally soundproof the suite. Rosalind can camp right outside and not even hear a kobold fart!"

"And it's an excuse to look good and show off to your friends," said Stella as she indicated her latest color-shifting ensemble, "if only I could post pictures for my followers to admire. Alas, secrecy measures, you know."

"We definitely have legitimate reasons to celebrate, Bloom," said Aisha, "not only have you recovered from your injuries, but…"

"But we're more than halfway finished with the tunnel!" said Terra, "no small thanks to my help, by the way."

"Yes, Ms. Harvey has been of great assistance," said Elise as she eyed her nails, frowning at a speck of dirt there, "as was young Master Harvey."

"Sam?" Bloom asked, "Sam's helping?"

"Of course, he's helping," said Musa, "and he's coming with us."

"So's my dad," said Terra, "and I've kicked myself for not telling them the truth in the first place."

"And so's the rest of my Guard," said Stella, "they've all bled in defense of my life and therefore officially bonded to my service, while I'm bonded to look out for their wellbeing."

"So, aside from the eight of us," said Bloom, "we're bringing Sam and Professor Harvey, Chrissie and the rest of Stella's Company, so that makes twenty-four, plus one."

"Who's the plus one?" Aisha asked.

"Sky, we've got to get him out of here before Andreas hurts him or something," said Bloom.

"Twenty-five," said Carmen, "when we told tech expert and she told Andrew that we're gonna get twenty-four out, Andrew nearly flipped his wig for real. Seriously, he tried to tear his hair out."

"And he's already going bald," said Morgan, "but this time will really push him over the edge."

"Well, he'll just have to suffer," said Stella, "because I want Sky away from Andreas and Rosalind as much as Bloom does, and I'm sure he'd want to leave if he knew we were leaving. Here's a thought," she grabbed Bloom's hand, "we'll tell him together, that'll surely convince him of the benefits of escaping. And furthermore…

---

The near-instant transition from the waking world to the dreamscape gave both Bloom and Stella a severe case of mental whiplash that left them in a state of confoundedness. It was several seconds before they were coherent enough to realize someone was talking to them.

"I'm sorry, Bloom, for the rough shift," said Ricki. She then held her hand to her forehead, "you think you're feeling miserable? Wait until I wake up with the mother of all headaches, but I had to bring you in. Andrew wants a face to face."

"Ricki?" Stella asked as she saw her former best friend.

"Wh-what? Stella?" Ricki asked, "how…where you touching Bloom when I pulled her into the dreamscape?"

Stella answered by grabbing Ricki in a long-overdue embrace, "oh, Ricki! I'm sorry, I'm so sorry!" She then looked Ricki in the eye, "but you're alright now, you can see again, right?"

"Uh…yes, and no, Stella," said Ricki, "in the dreamscape, I can see better than ever, but I'm still blind in real life, but I forgive you. I forgave you long ago when I realized how deplorable your mother treated you."

"Yes, Luna is a deplorable bitch," said Andrew in his steampunk gunslinger persona, "no offense to you, Princess, but your mother is in dire need of a lesson in humility."

"Stella, Bloom," said Ricki, "this is Andrew Carpenter, 'The Man with the Plan' as we in The Shadow Cadre call him."

"Charmed," said Stella dryly, before returning her attention to Ricki, "but how is this possible? I thought your powers were limited to your own dreams? You were barely able to see into other's dreams when…when…"

"When you were so emotionally distressed by your mother's coldhearted instructions you fried my eyes?" Ricki asked, "I got better, in more ways than one, thanks to the patience and understanding of Patricia Walker."

"Yes, yes, Patricia's wonderful," said Andrew, "but that's not important right now," he looked at Bloom, "you, Bloom Peters, have been one big wrench in the gears. Do you have any idea how much angst and anxiety over revamping the plan I've had to sludge my way through? A plan originally crafted to save you from Rosalind's corruption? But then you had to go and insist on getting your friends out, then more and more friends. Twenty-four, I still need to figure out how to get twenty-four people out from under Rosalind's nose without tipping her off."

"Well, I'm sorry I've trigger you so," said Bloom, "and I'm sorry to trigger you again, because Sky's coming too."

"You're damned right he's coming," said Stella, "no way we're leaving him for Andreas to twist and mold into a killing machine."

"Oh, that I anticipated," said Andrew, "though I have no idea how to convince him to abandon the father he thought was dead for sixteen years, that part you've got to figure out on your own, as well as how to get everyone out before Rosalind sniffs out something's wrong, and do it tomorrow morning."

"Tomorrow morning?" Bloom asked, "but…but the tunnel isn't finished."

"It has to be finished by tomorrow morning," said Ricki, "that is, if you still want Stella and her new bodyguards to come as well."

"What are you talking about?" Stella asked, "what's wrong?"

"Did I mention your mother is deplorable?" Andrew asked, "she's also has a bit of a sadistic side."

"Tell me something I don't know," said Stella.

"She knows you went out to fight Burned Ones with Bloom," said Ricki, "your mother is madder than a wet Cockatrice. She's coming at noon tomorrow to pull you out of Alfea again."

"Again?" Stella asked, "why wait so long? What's to stop the old tyrant from kidnapping me now?"

"She's using the time to amend an ancient Solarian law," said Ricki, "the one that says the heir to the throne has to be eighteen and in full possession of her powers. Stella, your mother wants you married as soon as possible so she can keep you securely under her thumb, and guess who she's in conference to work out the wedding contract? Her old friend Countess Cassandra."

"Countess Cassandra?" Stella asked as her face paled with horror, "you mean…I'm to marry…"

"Her son, Viscount Cyril," said Ricki.

"Umm…is Viscount Cyril someone I should know about?" Bloom asked hesitantly.

"Believe me, you'll wish you never heard of him," said Ricki, "Cyril is a beast of a boy who's lusted after Stella since she started growing tits."

"It's not my tits he's after," said Stella, "though the idea of him touching any part of my skin makes me nauseous, but Cyril, he a fetish for long, blond hair."

"And who here has the best head of long, blond hair in all of Solaria?" Ricki asked, "and let's not forget Cyril's twin sister, Chimera. While Cyril has a handful of innocent moments, Chimera is evil through and through. Nothing makes her happier than to be as rude, cruel and sadistic as possible to those under her."

"Their mother is decent enough," said Stella, "and one of my mother's closest confidants, but it's no secret Cassandra lusts after the throne, if not for herself than her children. And if I marry Cyril…" she then gave an involuntary shudder and clutched her stomach, "sorry, I threw up in my mouth a little."

"If he and Stella marry, Cyril will be the Prince Consort," said Ricki, "with Cassandra pulling his strings from behind the throne. As for Chimera, with her elevated status, she'll be free to make more people miserable with her sick games."

"Over my dead body," said Stella with grim determination, "I'd rather kill myself than let those twin terrors and their ambition mother any closer to the throne than they are."

"Which is why we need to get you, Bloom and everyone else out of Alfea and somewhere safe before Luna arrives at Twelve o'clock sharp tomorrow," said Andrew, "and, I'm ashamed to admit, I've no idea how without Rosalind catching wind of the plan."

"We've already got someone working on the outside end of the tunnel," said Ricki, "and our tech expert, her name's Tecna by the way, she calculated that, with Terra and the others with Earth magic working with The Trio, the tunnel can be finished with half an hour to spare. We just need to keep Rosalind and Luna distracted long enough to get everyone out."

She looked at Bloom with earnest eyes, "we hope it won't come to it, but you and your friends may have to fight Rosalind."

"I can't do that!" said Bloom, "I just got out of the hospital. I was almost paralyzed by a Burned One."

"Oh, that reminds me," said Stella, "you two know The Burned Ones are getting bigger and smarter?"

"Yes, Carmen's report did say they were evolving," said Andrew, "or at least have a controlling intelligence behind them."

"About that," said Bloom, "what do you know about Darkar, The Shadow Phoenix?"

At that Andrew laughed, "that's an old, old story I haven't heard since my days as a Youth Guide many, many years ago."

"You don't look that old," said Bloom.

"This is just my virtual persona," said Andrew as he indicated his cyberpunk gunslinger outfit, "I'm much older than I look in real life, but that's not important right now. Darkar is a story they tell around campfires and on cold, windy nights to scare kids into behaving: 'Eat your vegetables or Darkar will get you!'"

"'Brush and floss or Darkar will get you!'" said Ricki.

"'Don't play ball in the house or I'll tell Darkar and he'll get you!'" said Andrew, "'don't ogle pretty girls or you'll get a bloody nose, and Darkar will get you!' you get the idea."

"Rosalind seems to believe he's coming back," said Bloom, "and so did that big Burned One."

"I won't deny it is suspicious," said Andrew, "but if this is what Rosalind is so afraid of, if this is the war she's convinced is coming, we could use it to her advantage."

At that Ricki cried out in pain and clutched her face, wincing when she pulled her hands away to see blood. "We need to wrap it up, Andrew," she said in a strained tone, "like, right now."

"Right," said Andrew. He then looked at Bloom, "we'll do everything we can on the outside to get you and yours to safety, but you need to distract Rosalind and her ilk on your end. You need to distract Rosalind, Andreas and Luna."

"Well try," said Bloom, "that's all we can do."

"I know you will," said Ricki. She then grabbed and hugged Stella, who hugged her back despite the dream blood dripping from Ricki's nose. "Until we meet in the waking world, my dearest Stella."

"Oh, oh Ricki," said Stella as her eyes welled up with tears, "I'm so sorry I hurt you. I'm so sorry I destroyed our friendship."

"You didn't, your mother did," said Ricki, "but justice is coming. After all, 'there's no healing without justice.'"

---

With a pained gasp, Ricki woke up and clutched her bleeding nose.

"Easy, there!" said Tecna as she grabbed several gauze pads and held them to Ricki while holding her nose at the right pressure points to stop the bleeding, "you're gonna give yourself a brain tumor at this rate."

"It had to be done," said Ricki, "I had to bring in Andrew, he had to see her. But Stella, I had no idea I could bring in someone touching my intended dreamer. Either I'm stronger than I realized, or Bloom is."

"It may be both," said Andrew as he sat up next to Ricki, "but that's not important right now. There's a lot of work to do before noon tomorrow. I just hope Bloom and her friends are up to it."

---

"Oh boy, do we have a lot of work to do," said Carmen as she sat down, looking even paler than normal.

"You need a recharge?" Elise asked as she held out the bag of blood concentrates.

"It's not that," said Carmen, "we need to keep Rosalind busy while we finish the tunnel. Now more than ever are our lives in danger. If she gets one whiff of something out of the ordinary, she'll find us."

"And kill us without hesitation," said Elise, "yes, I know, but that shouldn't stop us."

"I'm not afraid of Rosalind," said Morgan boldly, "why, if she were here, I'd stop her with two fingers," she held up her right hand and made the Peace Sign, "these two fingers to be exact. And if she were to sick her bulldog Andreas on me, I'd stop him just the same."

"I thought you said you didn't have offensive magics," said Bloom.

"You don't need magic to fight magic," said Carmen, "sometimes a psychological attack works. Break the concentration of a Fairy or a Blood Witch and you can beat the living shit out of them. Same goes for a Specialist; mess them up mentally or emotionally and they're helpless."

At that a strange look dawned on Morgan, "by the false gods of our ancestors, I think I'm having a stroke!"

"What!?" exclaimed both Bloom and Carmen, while Stella and the others looked just as worried.

"Of Genius!" shouted Morgan triumphantly. She then grabbed Carmen and pulled her up into a dancing hug, "or you're the genius here, Carmen! You inspire me!" she then kissed Carmen full on the lips.

"Yes, well, I do have that effect sometimes," said Carmen in a slightly embarrassed tone after they broke contact, "but this is hardly the time or place to hook up again, not that I wouldn't mind."

At that Morgan dropped Carmen back to the floor, then grabbed Bloom, "I know how to distract Rosalind and Andreas!" she then grabbed Stella, "and your dear mother, if you're willing to help."

"If it'll get us away from Rosalind and me out of marrying the beast Cyril," said Stella, "who do I have to kill?"

"Your mother, possibly," said Morgan, "I mean, if it works, and there's still the chance we'll get caught and risk certain death, but if it does work, it could give Luna a heart attack." She then grabbed Stella by the face and pulled her close, "which is why we shouldn't do it if you're not willing to risk scaring your mother to death."

"Are you willing, Stella?" Aisha asked, "we know how horrid your mother treated you, but was she so horrid you want to give her a heart attack?"

"Who said she ever had a heart to begin with?" Stella asked. She then took Morgan's hands in hers and pulled away to a respectable distance, "again, who do I have to kill? And please say Cyril and Chimera."

"I knew I liked you," said Morgan, "now here's my idea."

Bloom listened to Morgan's plan, which sounded more convoluted and suicidal with each word, but it was the way Morgan told it that sparked hope in Bloom and the others. Yet as Morgan elaborated, Bloom hoped that, with the sheer insanity of the plan, she'd have time to find and convince Sky to come before it was time to go.

---

It was in fact well past 11 o'clock in the morning before Bloom was free to leave the suite and find Sky, which she did, out on the training yards, practicing with his sword.

"Hey," said Bloom as she walked up to him.

"Hey," replied Sky, "you alright?"

"My back's a little sore," said Bloom, "and there's a nice scar to show my grandkids. But yeah, I'm much better. In fact, I was hoping to recharge at the Stone Circle this morning and get back to work."

"That's a good idea," said Sky, "after that talking Burned One, Father and Rosalind are worried things will get worse, much worse. You don't want to know the horrors they suspect are coming."

"Well, whatever's coming," said Bloom, "I'm sure we can handle it. How are you handling your new powers?"

"You mean the family curse that makes me stronger, faster and could possibly kill me if I let it get out of control?" Sky asked, "I won't lie to you, Bloom, I'm scared of this power, I'm scared it could hurt someone I love."

"I know the feeling," said Bloom as she remembered how scared she was when her powers first manifested, "but look on the bright side, at least you won't accidentally burn your house down. Well," she then started to walk away, "I'm off to The Stone Circle to get my mojo back up, see ya!"

"Want some company?" Sky asked as he sheathed his sword, "Sorry if it sounds like I'm acting clingy you, but after everything that's happening, I'd feel better if weren't alone outside."

"I'd like that," said Bloom as she smiled warmly, cheering inside as this was exactly what she hoped would happen, "in fact, there's a lot I'd want to talk to you without anyone else overhearing."

---

And so, on the way to The Stone Circle, Bloom told Sky everything that happened since Ricki first made contact in her dreams, from the plan and revised plans to escape Alfea, to reviving and making friends with Carmen, Morgan and Elise, Stella and Terra's real reasons to recruit Amanda, Chrissie and the others as Stella's bodyguards, with the urgent need to escape before Luna's arrival at noon. The only details Bloom skilled where her encounters with Daphne and the Nymph's call to meet at Lake Roccaluche, that was something Bloom wanted to keep for herself for the moment.

Sky was surprisingly silent on the way to The Stone Circle, listening eagerly to Bloom's story and saving his questions for when they were almost at their destination.

"I often wondered what happened to Ricki," he said, "but this is beyond anything I could imagine. Are you sure you trust Carmen and her friends? They're Blood Witches after all."

"Reformed Blood Witches," Bloom corrected, "you'd know how sincere they are when you get to know them. And yes, I do trust them, same goes for Andrew and the rest of the Shadow Cadre."

"But…to just up and abandon Alfea," said Sky, "now when you and the others are needed more than ever. Yes, I know Rosalind's methods can be extreme and my father can be overzealous at times, but…"

"No buts, Sky," said Bloom, "I won't stand by while Rosalind and your father turn my friends and I into living weapons. If there really is a war coming, fighting it Rosalind's way will only result in more death and destruction like what happened at Aster Dell. We're leaving Alfea," she then took Sky's hands in hers, "and I want you to come with us."

"I…I want to go with you," said Sky, "whatever's coming, whatever the future holds, I want to face it with you, Bloom." He then broke contact and backed away a step, "but, you're asking me to betray my father, to betray Alfea and everything I believe in."

"I'll understand if you say no," said Bloom, though inside she was screaming for Sky to say yes, "but if you do stay, I'll have to ask you not to stop us. Whatever's coming, you'll have to make a choice."

"Yes, son," said Andreas as he stepped out from behind a tree and drew his sword, "you'll have to choose." He pointed his sword at Bloom, "her or me?"

…To Be Continued…