Chapter Twenty-Four: "Dealing With Sorrows and Finding A Way "
Faint grey light had spilled into the bedroom though the thick curtain slit. The sounds of birds were happily singing to their tune, as they flew passed by the window.
The girl had slowly opened her eyes to see that it was morning. A reminder to her that a brand-new day had awaited her.
Bloom had collapsed into the several puffy pillows behind her—moaning. She didn't even have the energy to simply get up and get dressed for the day. In fact, all she had wanted to do was to stay in bed all day—unmotivated to get out into the world.
The girl had heard several incoming text messages from her phone and had grabbed it. The bright light had flashed in her face, causing her to squint her eyes. It was her friends. They were all worried about her.
Confusion rose to her face.
Aisha: What happened B? Your dad was fucking pissed last night, almost setting the entire forest ablaze. Apparently, he wouldn't say anything. I'm really worried about you. Please call me or text me back when you're feeling okay Bloom. Alright?
Bloom's head had spun all around—still feeling utterly dazed by all what had happened to her. Still in disbelief or more like she was in denial. It felt like an endless hellish nightmare.
A breeze of cold air had brushed against her skin—giving her goosebumps. She had continued to glance at the rest of the text her friends had shot her.
Stella: I'm going to screw Valtor to pieces Bloom if I found out he hurt you! I will not let that bastard get away with it, not again! Are you feeling any better, Bloom? Girl, you really need a break from the universe! You deserve a nice long vacation! Please text me back when you're feeling better, alright B?
Sky: Bloom? I've been trying to reach you for a few days and I'm hoping you're doing alright? I've been in contact with your family, and they've been giving me updates on you. They're very nice people, but your dad and uncle scares me a lot more than you think. I'm really worried about you, and I want to see you again, hopefully soon.
Bloom couldn't help, but giggle at the thought of Oritel and Alec scaring her boyfriend away. Sky's reaction must've been priceless.
Wait!
She had instantly noticed that the text messages her friends had left her was a couple of days ago. Her brain couldn't ponder the fact that it might've happened days ago. So, had she been asleep this whole time?
Bloom had finally took notice of her surroundings—her brows had knitted together in confusion. She wasn't in the palace that was for sure. This wasn't her bedroom, but it was very beautiful.
The tall wooden wardrobe that had made glass perfumes aligned neatly. Her golden jewelries were all neatly placed in the jewelry box. Across from the wardrobe, there was a vanity where all of her make-up were scattered.
There was a small fireplace—flames were flickering—spreading utter warmth in the room. The large queen-sized bed that she was currently in was in the direct center of the room—in front of the balcony that nice view of the meadows that was still coated in thick layers of snow.
Where was she exactly?
Bloom had gently gotten out of bed, as her thick red hair had fallen down to her waist, all tangled and messy. She had noticed that someone had changed her gown into a long silky-sleeved nightdress in the shade of pastel blue. The girl had noticed a sealed letter on her vanity and picked it up and she had gently opened the seal.
To My Dearest Daughter Bloom
Please forgive my sudden intrusion and for not informing you on anything while you were resting, but I do believe that you should spend some quality time with your mother's side of the family. I do believe that you should be away from all the stress of palace life and even being the Guardian Fairy of The Dragon Flame. I just want you to enjoy your teenage life without all the heavy responsibilities and burden that you are shouldering.
After all Bloom, you are so young, merely seventeen years of age and you need a break from the universe every once in a while, especially after the recent events. Bloom you're incredibly talented just like your mother and with each passing day you're becoming more of a woman like Marion. I am indeed very proud of being your father, Bloom, never mistake that otherwise.
Bloom, I truly hope you cherish your time with your mother's family and perhaps this little break would heal your broken heart. I just want the very best for you and for your state of mind. Peace, love, and happiness is what you truly deserve my darling. I love you with all of my heart my beautiful daughter. Always remember that you will always be my little girl, no matter what.
Your loving father
Crown Prince Oritel of Domino
So... she was staying with her mother?
Had Bloom said something to upset her father? But the words were so heartwarming it made her cry on the inside.
Tears had dripped onto the letter.
Her father had truly a way with words that had moved her fragile heart as she kept reading the letter over and over again. His handwriting was so ever graceful compared to her own handwriting which would seem like chicken scribbles. Her cheeks had flushed brightly embarrassed at such a thought.
Bloom sniffed, dabbing at her eyes.
Oritel's words were filled with poise and eloquence something that Bloom had lacked in. Bloom couldn't even find herself doing and even if she did, it would be like forcefully pulling teeth out of her gum. It wouldn't come out naturally like her father or possibly her mother.
She had took notice of Marion's handwriting as well. It was utterly sophisticated, even more so than Oritel's.
Something had told Bloom that her parents had both took certain classes in regarding to having a fancy writing skill. Perhaps she could indulge in a class like that? It seemed fun and artistic (and maybe it could simply take her mind off things).
A gentle knock was heard on the door, but Bloom had been drawn into the letter that she had barely heard her mother and grandmother walk into the room—checking up on her.
"Bloom?"
Marion was genuinely surprised to see her daughter up and about. It had been about a few days since Bloom had been in a deep sleep. The girl could see the peachy-rose color had returned to her daughter's face again.
Marion's emerald eyes had softened on Bloom; her lips twisting into a small comforting smile. It was good to see Bloom up again and not having to worry over when she would decide to wake up.
"Are you feeling well, Bloom?" Lassandra had asked, her blue eyes drifting onto her granddaughter, inspecting her from head to toe.
"I think I'm doing better, but everything just seems to be so hazy," Bloom admitted, though as much she tried to remember certain things. . . the only thing she could possibly feel was being utterly mortified in her father's arms before passing out.
And that damned kiss. . .
She was going to burn Valtor in hell for all eternity if he would ever decide to cross paths with her again (and which he promised he would).
The girl hated his promises.
The one damned thing Valtor was good at keeping and delivering. But Bloom would be ready by then.
Marion had pushed Bloom's bangs away from her face—cupping her cheek with her hand. Her emerald eyes had drifted to the faded kiss marks that were left on Bloom's neck and it seemed to be trailing down to her breasts.
"We need to talk Bloom. About what happened," Marion could easily see how flustered Bloom became; her face becoming positively scarlet, and the girl had avoided her and her grandmother's gazes.
Bloom had flinched at her mother's touch, barely lifting her head—still feeling the shame cross her face. "Mum?"
"No one is going to blame you. What happened to you wasn't your fault sweetheart," Marion had assured her, gently rubbing Bloom's back trying to soothe down her emotions and worries.
"Bloom, why don't you lay down on the bed. I want to examine those marks that I've been trying to heal for you." Lassandra had suggested to her granddaughter. Bloom noted the concern in her grandmother's tone.
"Marks?" Bloom had asked, baffled, placing her hand on her slender neck. The only thing she knew that Valtor had left kisses on her neck. It had sounded like she had more than one on her body.
Bloom had shuddered terrifyingly, wondering if Valtor's damned lips had wondered all over her body. Bloom had vividly remembered that Valtor had indeed squeezed her small breasts rather aggressively and had his lips on them much to her own disdain.
Bloom had discarded her nightgown to the side of the bed—leaving her in her underwear. She had crossed her arms over her bare chest even though her long hair had manage to cover it. It felt utterly awkward to strip her clothes off in front of her mother and grandmother.
Marion had furrowed her red brows.
The marks had seemed slightly lighter, but still retaining that shade of redness.
Bloom winced when she felt Lassandra's finger smoothing the cream on the areas—it still hurt considerably.
"I know it still hurts, darling. I'm trying to be gentle with you," Lassandra said softly.
"I know," Bloom mumbled, silently cursing Valtor.
The cool cream had easily absorbed into Bloom's skin—easing her pain as Bloom had let out an 'oohhh' sound and the redness had subside for now.
Lassandra was not the one for being easily peeved about any type of skin blemishes that couldn't be healed instantly. But in this case, a supposedly forced love bite mark that was all over her granddaughter's skin had made her blood rile. Valtor had done enough to irritate the hell out of her.
Marion had noted Bloom's expression rather carefully. It seemed that she was still at loss over what had happened. She had gently touched Bloom's arm, trying to not startle her.
"Bloom? Are you alright?" Marion had asked in a softer, motherly tone.
Bloom had glanced at her mother strangely.
"Didn't you just ask me that? I'm fine."
The girl had unintentionally rose her voice.
Marion had shook her head. "That's not what I meant sweetheart. Your father, um, he told me certain, uh-details of the event."
Bloom had nearly spluttered in outrage.
The girl had wanted to die out of pure embarrassment. Her father. Oritel. He had decided to just inform the entire family about it without even consulting her or. . . even. . . she could feel her cheeks burn and her heart racing against her chest, her breathing had become erratic.
It was way beyond humiliating!
"Marion! Bloom's not ready to talk about it. It's still a delicate subject for her!"
Lassandra had glowered, narrowing her sapphire eyes at her daughter.
Bloom had agreed with her grandmother on that; she was definitely not ready to spill the beans to her mom or either of her grandmothers just yet. She needed time. Time to heal and process everything in. In a way, it still was mortifying for her.
"I just want to know if she's okay, mum!"
Bloom could detect the hurt laced in her mother's voice. She knew that Marion was trying to help and getting her to perk up again.
"I'm better. . . but I still don't think I could look dad in the eyes. It's too. . ." Bloom felt her face grow hot—a deep shade of crimson, averting their gazes as she fiddled with the strands of her hair.
"Valtor. . . uh. . . he slid my underwear in the presence . . ." Bloom had felt her tongue go heavy, tears streaming down her face.
Dragons! How would she ever have a good father-daughter relationship with Oritel if this would always manage to come up between them?
"What?" Marion had gasped in horror.
In that moment she was utterly disgusted—sickened to her stomach—as her face had turned a light shade of green, fully knowing Bloom's implication of words.
Lassandra couldn't believe a single word that had been uttered out of Bloom's mouth. She had assumed that Valtor was forcing himself upon Bloom, touching and kissing her inappropriately without having her consent.
No.
Lassandra had glanced at her granddaughter brokenheartedly. Utter sympathy had shined in her sapphire blue eyes—the same shades as Bloom's.
Bloom had looked at her mother baffled.
"What? Dad didn't. . ." she had realized that Oritel may have been giving brief descriptions of Valtor forcing himself on her, excluding the whole underwear scene.
Bloom couldn't blame her father for not bringing that topic up. As much as it was mortifying for her, it had to be utterly worse for Oritel because she was his daughter.
"I-I . . . I don- don't think… that… it's mortifying! I don't think dad can look at me without. . . imagining what Valtor did!"
Bloom had fallen into utter distress—sobbing uncontrollably as Lassandra had engulfed her granddaughter into a tight embrace as she had softly stroked Bloom's hair and planted a kiss on her head.
"Oh, darling. Shh . . . it's going to be alright. I promise you," Lassandra said soothingly; her tone was soft, motherly, and understanding of the situation. The blond-haired woman had glanced at Marion; her lips twisting into a frown. "Perhaps, some things are just better left unsaid."
Marion had sat beside Bloom—gently running her fingers though Bloom's messy hair. She didn't know what to say or how to console her shattered daughter.
Bloom had lifted her head—cheeks flushing.
"Um. . . I was thinking about showering. . ."
Marion's eyes had lit up instantly. "You want to do something?"
"Well, I suppose it's better than staying here all day long. Maybe I can go with you and grandmother." Bloom said, trying to put up a small courageous smile.
"Oh, how lovely! Marion why don't you show her around, alright? I'll be preparing a few things and tending to your father before we leave, say in an hour?"
Marion gazed at Bloom. "Is that enough time for you?"
"More than enough," Bloom said politely.
Lassandra had left the girls to themselves. Marion had noticed that there was a letter on the vanity from Oritel that was unsealed, which had meant one thing. It must've been for Bloom.
"Dad. He's written me a letter. It's really something else, you know. Dad's handwriting is so elegant, which compared to mine, looks like chicken scribbles," Bloom had tried to laugh lightheartedly, but it came off rather awkward. "You can read it if you want."
"I know Oritel really well. His words are very fascinating, giving off refined speech and such. But this is a private matter between the two of you."
Bloom pouted at her mother. "Please? It's not private mum. Just a father-daughter conversation. . .so. . ."
Marion had rolled her emerald eyes, but if it was to make her daughter happy- she'd willing to oblige. It hadn't took her long to read the letter. But the words. . . were so utterly sweet of him.
Oritel was such an admirable man and a good-hearted father to her daughter. She could feel her cheeks turn pink, intensely blushing.
"Awe! You'll end up with a wonderful husband, mum," Bloom winked at her mother, playfully. "Which makes me think that you and dad should get hitched as soon as possible because Dragon knows. . ."
It had made Marion blush furiously; her face turning bright red, matching her hair entirely. She had snatched a small sized pillow and had tossed it directly at her daughter.
"BLOOM!"
"MUM!
Bloom only giggled at her mother's priceless expression.
"What! You know it's true!" Bloom shrugged causally; her lips had curled into a sadistic grin. "You and dad have it so bad . . . you guys practically can't have your hands off each other. I mean. . ."
Marion was utterly stunned by her daughter's words. No words could be spilled—speechless. But seeing the laughter fill Bloom's face had made her soul be at peace.
Hot water had poured into the bathtub. Steam had swirled all around in the air—causing the mirrors to become foggy.
Bloom had admired the spacious, luxurious bathroom. Everything had seemed to be made out of pure crystals and glass—gleaming due to the faint light spilling through the small window.
The girl had dipped herself into the steamy hot bath—the water against her cold skin had tingled in delight as Bloom had gently rested herself in the bath. The water reaching her neckline—closing her eyes as she allowed herself to be immersed in nothing but absolute daydreams.
All what she wanted was to disappear from the universe and its problems.
Bloom had started to scrub at her skin and hair.
Oddly enough Bloom could somehow feel the presence of Valtor lingering behind her even though he wasn't physically there. The way he pressed his lips against her skin. . . Bloom had her hand on the love bite mark he'd left her with.
Shivers had ran down her skin.
Once Bloom was down showering—getting every inch of soap off her body, she had turned the faucets off and gently wrapped a thick towel around her naked body. Bloom had grabbed a smaller towel and dried her hair.
She had walked out of the bathroom to see that everything prepared for her. It was no doubt that her mother had decide to see what ought to wear for today's occasion.
Marion had took a seat in the dining room for breakfast and she noticed that her brother was the only one seated. She had noticed the absence of her parents. It appeared that they hadn't joined them for breakfast just yet.
Awkward silence had befallen the two siblings within the room. They hadn't been on the greatest terms for the past few days. But Marion was the first one to break the uneasiness.
"Where's mum? Is she still tending to dad?"
Alec gazed at his sister. "I do believe she is. Oritel gave dad some time off for him to rest and heal. In the meantime, I'll be attending to dad's duties. I'll be meeting up with Oritel later this afternoon."
Marion slowly gave a nod.
"Is Bloom doing alright?"
Marion had lifted an eyebrow.
She still hadn't gotten over the fact that her brother had directly blamed Bloom for everything that happened and not the wizard who was responsible for such madness.
The girl looked at her brother flatly.
"Why are you asking me that? I thought you 'blamed her' for everything." Marion had mimicked her brother's exact words and tone of voice.
"Marion, how many times do I have to apologize to you? I said, I was sorry, and I was only angry. To be fair, I was worried about mum and dad. What if we had lost them?" Alec implied sadly.
The girl had spotted the heartbreak flitter across her brother's face. She hadn't even consider the possibly of her parents losing their life under Valtor's hands.
And if they had lost their lives. . .
Marion had swallowed hardly.
The girl didn't even want to think about it if it had come to that. Her brother had a valid point. If they had arrived a bit later, her mother and father would've surely died from blood loss if she hadn't manage to heal them on time.
"Marion, I didn't mean to scare you. But it's what I thought. . . you know," Alec's emerald eyes had soften on his little sister. "I really do get that I was being a complete prick to you and I'm truly sorry."
"I know. And as for Bloom, I don't think she's going to be, uh, the same after what happened. Mum said she's suffering from PTSD and there's an underlying hint of depression. I'm really worried about her state of mind," Marion fretted over her child's endless suffering.
Bloom had endured so much in her short life and now this was the last thing that Bloom needed on her plate. It had made Marion's heart bleed for her girl.
Alec had closed his eyes as he cursed Valtor endlessly for putting his niece through something utterly despicable and disturbing.
"I really don't know what to tell you sis." Alec's emerald eyes had shined with utmost sympathy. He wasn't the best at his word selections. "Bloom has to know that we're there for her, right?"
Alec had placed his hand on her shoulder, giving her a soft squeeze of reassurance.
"Yeah. She knows that. Please don't try to ask her any sensitive questions alright? Bloom's zoning out and well. . . it would only make her feel upset about it. I just want my daughter to be okay, but. . ." tears had rolled down her cheeks," . . . like I said, I don't know."
Marion simply couldn't help but feel utterly distressed about the whole situation because she had no experience and that had dampened her mood even further.
"Just give Bloom some time and you'll see," Alec had gazed at his sister softly.
"I really hope so," Marion murmured.
Alec and Marion had heard the sounds of heels clicking onto the marbled floors getting louder. It was her parents and Bloom. Marion and her brother had greeted their parents with a good morning smile.
Bloom's aura had seemed to be slightly perkier than earlier.
The richly navy sleeved gown had really complimented Bloom's skin and her gorgeous red curls. It had made her blue eyes pop strikingly. The girl had took a seat between her mother and uncle, offering her uncle a good morning smile.
Marion had noticed that her father was looking in better shape compared to a few days earlier although the scar on his face was slightly faded and he was still using the walking stick as to not put all of his weight on his left leg. Reforming bones would take at least about a few weeks or so to be mended back together again.
A warm smile had blossomed on Marion's lips.
"How are you feeling, dad? Better I hope?"
A trace of a smile had flickered on his lips. "Better darling. Of course, thanks to your mother that is—" out of the corner of his eyes he could spot his wife's blushing, "but as you know it'll take some time to heal."
Marion gave a slow nod in response before turning her attention onto Bloom.
"You haven't put anything on your plate sweetheart," Marion had noticed that Bloom's plate that lacked the variety of food. "You need to eat."
"What?"
Bloom snapped out of her daze and glanced at her mother—seeing that Marion's eyebrows were raised—a frown had tugged at her lips. Bloom glanced down at her plate that was barely filled with food . . . she had been rather absorbed in her own thoughts.
"Are you sure you're feeling alright, Bloom?" Marion questioned her daughter again, worry filling her vibrant emerald eyes.
Marion could easily tell that Bloom's blue eyes weren't focused on anything or the table or anyone. The girl was too distracted in her own thoughts—not paying attention to her surroundings.
"Yes! I'm fine! I'm doing okay, just you know, a little tired is all. . ." Bloom trailed off focused on stirring her hot tea. But the pitiful expressions her family were giving her had made it utterly hard on her.
Bloom's weary smile had faltered. "You don't believe me, do you?"
Lassandra's gaze had met her granddaughter's—softening—noticing that the girl was simply picking at her meal, wanting nothing to do but avoid their stares.
"We don't want to lie to your face and say we believe you, darling."
(Bloom had a feeling that her grandmother would say that. The girl had even spotted the glances she was receiving, as they only wanted to help her.)
"Oh," Bloom muttered faintly—slightly nodding. "I see. . . I just—"
"Bloom, you don't have to be fine and that's normal, but you do need to eat." Lassandra had flicked her fingers, as Bloom had watched variety of food appear on her plate.
"Eat. Now."
"But—"
"No buts young lady. I don't want to see you skipping breakfast or any meals throughout the day," Lassandra emphasized.
Bloom could easily see her grandmother's eyes shining with worry about her overall well-being. Lassandra had a valid point. The redhead princess had picked up her fork and begun to eat her meal. Throughout the entire breakfast there was no words being uttered as each of them were in their own worlds, eating at their own meal.
Bloom could easily feel the warm, wonderful, loving sensation fill the atmosphere around them, but there was a swirl of. . . blame rising from her uncle. In a way, Bloom could sense the anguish from Alec over the fact that Valtor had nearly tried to murder her maternal grandparents.
Alec had been in an emotional state ever since Valtor had captured his parents and that terrible state they had been or, so Bloom had been told by her mother. Adrian had swallowed the final piece of his bread before speaking up—breaking the silence that surrounded the family.
"Oritel had wanted to let you know that that we'll all be on a holiday by the end of the week." Adrian had started much to his family's shock.
"What?" Bloom's fork had dropped with a loud clatter.
Marion's emerald eyes had gone wide. No words could be spilled from her mouth as she looked at her father and she noticed that her mother had appeared to be baffled—her blond brows furrowed in confusion.
Alec was stunned—at loss.
But wasn't he supposed to be taking over his father's business at the time being until his father was all healed up? It's what Oritel had discussed with him in the first place unless if Oritel had decided to change his mind at the very last second (which was more than likely the case).
"So Oritel changed his mind?"
"It would appear so. Oritel had intended for Bloom to take a break from the Magical Dimension's problems for a couple of weeks or for as long as Bloom needs," Adrian elaborated.
A heavy shiver ran through her body, knowing that Oritel had decided to take the matter into his own hands without even consulting her about it, yet again. Bloom noted that Oritel had a terrible habit about not involving her. Not only that but her father had manage to drag the rest of her family members into it by giving them the time off for a couple of weeks. Bloom could easily spot the slight scowl twist on her uncle's lips—not liking the idea any more than she did. She had furrowed her red brows.
Bloom had other matters that needed to be taken care of before anything else. Like seeing her friends again? Visiting the Golden Kingdom? Knowing who and what were pulling the strings from behind the shows? Dealing with urgent affairs?
Yet, Oritel was brushing the matter under the carpets like it had meant absolutely nothing to her and that he was dealing with it personally. So that's how it was. She hated the way that Oritel was irritating her.
Bloom had the urge to roll her eyes in annoyance. She had curled her lips together opening her mouth.
"But he's forgetting an important matter that I need to deal with. The Golden Kingdom? That can't wait and he can't completely brush that off."
Marion had gazed at her daughter before looking back at her father Adrian—her emerald eyes flickering with worry.
"I know that Oritel wants the best for Bloom's welfare, but she makes a fair point as well."
Lassandra had grimaced at the mention of the Golden Kingdom, knowing full well what the Elder Council would display. They were rather fickle and deceitful beings—not trustable creatures. She blinked her blue eyes at Bloom.
"Bloom, may I ask how exactly you came across the knowledge of the Golden Kingdom?" Lassandra had gently asked her granddaughter; her blue eyes shimmering with fear. She had placed her hand onto of her husband for some type of solace.
Bloom had gazed at her grandmother—fear had flickered in her blue eyes, as nervousness had washed over Lassandra entirely. Her face had drained from all color.
Bloom fiddled with the strands of her red hair anxiously. Butterflies had swirled around her stomach—pouncing at every corner, causing her heart to flutter all over her chest. The girl hadn't assumed that she would be questioned about the details regarding the Golden Kingdom.
Bloom bit her lips before nodding hesitantly.
"I was in research for the Water Stars, and I came across the Golden Kingdom. It was located there, so," Bloom had trailed off.
"Water Stars?" Alec's blond eyebrows had rose, surprised by the revelation. "You do realize that you can—"
"I know." Bloom cut her uncle off, as she stared off in the distance.
Marion wasn't fazed as much as the rest of her family members. Until now, she had not been comforted with the idea that the Water Stars had nearly caused Bloom's own demise. Even Oritel had a look of utter disapproval.
"And yet, you still took the risk knowing the consequences." Alec had meant it more as a statement.
Adrian had clenched his jaw. His bright emerald eyes had fallen on his granddaughter, observing Bloom entirely.
"You're very impulsive and reckless Bloom even more so than Oritel I dare say," Adrian had commented, frowning. "Now I can see why your father fathoms the idea of keeping you behind the palace's walls—wanting you out of harm's way."
The light brown-haired man wasn't exactly thrilled over the idea that his granddaughter had thoughtlessly threw her life at every danger that came her way without regards to the people who loved her.
The amount of danger that Bloom had put herself through had been rather unimaginable and utterly foolish. At times she was utterly inconsiderate of other people's feelings towards her.
Bloom bit her lips.
She could feel the anxiety seep into her blood, upon sensing the shift or that her mother was glaring at her with her arms crossed—displeased as Alec had listed off the many reckless attempts Bloom had done, making her further sink in the chair uncomfortably.
Lassandra posed a brow at her grandchild."Really Bloom? Incomplete Enchantix? That alone could spell your own demise. And how come I'm just hearing about this just now, Marion?"
Bloom had winced at her grandmother's sharp tone.
The woman was completely horrified, not that Bloom would blame her for it. Bloom had took a quick glimpse to see her grandfather's reaction and it was no better than her grandmother's—Adrian appeared appalled by the sudden news.
"Grandmother, it's not mum's fault. She didn't know about that, and the situation was complicated as to how I'd earn my full fledge fairy form. . ." Bloom had cut in, trying in the best way she could explain the situation.
Upon seeing Lassandra giving a slight nod, Bloom knew that her grandmother had understood her implication of words.
The girl had personally experienced her Enchantix spells backfiring on her—always ending up unconscious for a couple of hours. Bloom would feel groggy the next day after her attempts of using her powerful signature spells.
Bloom knew it had sounded utterly stupid during the time, but it was the only idea that she had. Even her friends who obtained their Enchantix, hadn't been able to defeat Valtor's spells. Valtor had the dark Dragon Flame that made him utterly invincible, plus with all those magical scrolls he had stolen from a variety of realms had added fuel to his fire.
When Oritel and Marion had learned about the Water Stars—and why Bloom was digging for the information—they had harshly criticized her and had been crossed with her actions for days afterwards.
"But it's no longer the case. My Enchantix is complete."
"Yes, and that was right after you fell into the portal with Mandragora," Alec snipped at his niece, reminding her of another fault of hers, which had earned him a glare from Bloom.
From what Bloom knew, apparently Lassandra and Adrian had hardly slept during the time in worry over their children's safety while Alec and Marion were in Obsidian and with the possibilities of facing the Ancestral Witches.
An unbearable amount of fear and panic had flooded her their minds. It had left them on the very edge of cracking to pieces. Deciding to switch the heavy subject, Bloom had gazed at her grandmother.
"I know I promised that I would go with you today, but seeing as what my dad planned for us, I would think it would be best to solve the Golden Kingdom issue first before doing anything else."
"Absolutely not Bloom!" Alec's emerald eyes flashed in ire.
"And why not?" Bloom couldn't help but to argue back. She wasn't planning to sit down and do nothing.
If there is one thing that Bloom hated in the entire universe, it was being utterly useless and letting others take care of her issues.
"With everything that had happened to you, you still have audacity to confront the Elder Council Bloom?"
Bloom had snorted.
"Well, what do you want me to do? Nothing? I need to know what schemes they're planning and try to prevent the Prophecy from becoming my reality."
"Your father had warned me that you would try to do this. He doesn't want you to be involved with this." Alec emphasized—glaring at his niece who doesn't seem to understand the word no.
Bloom had let out a frustrating huff. "If that's the case then I'm going to call my father. What is he going to do? The worse thing he could do is lock me up in the castle with nowhere to go."
"And why do you want to end on bad terms with Oritel, Bloom? Your father is just trying to look after you." Adrian had interjected—gazing at his granddaughter with a questionable raised eyebrow. "And weren't you the one to tell Oritel not to leave you all alone in the first place? Now that he had given his word to you, you don't want it Bloom?"
Bloom's face had flushed—somewhat embarrassed. She had forgotten that she had uttered those particular words to her father. Bloom hadn't thought that Oritel would take her words very seriously.
"But it's not like I'm going to face Valtor or lose my life again. . . my friends, they've dealt with them from before."
Bloom had tried so desperately to reassure her family, but they didn't appeared to be agreeing with her words. "I'm not going to be alone this time. Why can't anyone just believe in my capabilities?"
Lassandra could easily see how shattered Bloom was—in her bright blue eyes that seemed to be sparked with a flicker of hope. The blond-haired woman had took a sip from tea before aiding Bloom's side.
Lassandra had considered Bloom's viewpoint and it was also important for Bloom to know her own future. "Perhaps I can help you Bloom. I've dealt with the councils just once when I was in my twenties. If I remember, they do owe me a favor."
This had struck Alec, Marion, and Bloom at once—as if bolts of lightning had shot down from the sky upon the trio.
"What?" Bloom whispered faintly; utter shock was evident in her voice.
"Mum! This isn't a good idea. Oritel . . . I don't think he'd be happy about that."
Alec had tried to persuade his mother out of the idea. Shivers had ran down the back of his spine just at the mere thought of the council members.
Marion was at lost.
The girl had never knew that her mother had personally met with Elder Council in the Golden Kingdom. Her thoughts were shattered upon her hearing her mother's voice again.
"I'll talk to Oritel and try to reason with him. Witches, wizards, and specialists don't have access to enter the Golden Kingdom unlike fairies." Lassandra had explained. "And from what I know, he's only worried about Bloom's life and wants to protect her to the best of his abilities and I can't blame him."
"But mum—" Alec's emerald eyes reflected genuine worry.
"Don't worry Alec," Lassandra's facial expression had soften on her son.
In every way that her son had acted, Alec was so much like his father including inheriting Adrian's subtle temper with occasional sarcasm dripping into his voice.
"Bloom, why don't you see to your friends? Perhaps they would like to accompany you?"
Bloom had given her grandmother a nod as her lips had twitched into a small smile. Once Bloom had finished her meal, she had thanked her grandparents before taking her leave, followed by Marion, leaving Alec behind along with Adrian and Lassandra.
"Lassandra, I'm not entirely sure if this is a good idea? They might not even reason. Remember how troublesome it was the last time and that was—what years ago? I don't even know how they even agreed to it." Adrian had his hand on top of his wife's for genuine support and for his own comfort.
Adrian had vividly remember how cruel the Elder Council had been during their time despite offering his wife a favor due to her talented efforts that had provided them utter significance after his many fruitless attempts of convincing the council that Lassandra had deserved much better.
"I know. It's always better to try even though the outcome may not be in our favor." Lassandra had frowned deeply. She still couldn't get the image out of her head, and neither can her husband.
"You know giving Bloom all this hope is going to shatter her in the end, mum. It's pointless no matter how much we try," Alec's lips had twisted into a deep frown.
It had made Lassandra's heart break to pieces as tears had glistened down her rounded cheeks. She didn't even have the heart to tell her own daughter about Bloom's fate.
Alec had painted a lighter version of the Prophecy, which had no doubt infuriated Marion and Bloom on levels that no one imagined they had . . . but the deeper truth would. . .
Lassandra had pushed that thought away. The woman would rather see both girls being utterly pissed off and not having their hearts being ripped out of their chest and ending up in a sobbing mess.
"I only want the best for my granddaughter's life. Not Bloom ending up in a coma after everything she'd been put through because of Valtor," Lassandra cried faintly. She didn't want Marion to barge in and see her in tears as it would be rather difficult to explain.
Adrian had pulled his wife into a loving, comforting hug.
No physical pain in the entire universe had hurt him as much as seeing his beloved wife being broken to pieces. It was one of the most painful feelings that Adrian had ever experienced. The light-brown-haired man had gently rubbed his wife's back—up and down and had stroked her long pale blond hair that he adored.
Adrian had wanted to utter words of comfort to his wife, but even he knew, there was no amount of words would ever make Lassandra feel better about the ever-growing situation.
Adrian's gaze had met his son's. "You will accompany your mother and the girls to the Golden Kingdom."
"And what will you be doing, dad?" Alec eyed his father. "You know since Oritel doesn't want you to be doing your duties at the moment."
"Don't worry about me, son. I'll be resting with no work being involved. From what I remember, the Golden Kingdom is on the outskirts of Magix. Be careful."
Alec could easily tell that there was no more room for argument with his father. What he hated was seeing his mother in absolute tears. No one would ever get away with breaking his mother's fragile heart.
It'd infuriated him on the inside.
Valtor was indirectly pulling his family apart one by one. Alec narrowed his eyes. The idea of that man wanting his niece as a wife. . . had made him utterly. . . no it was just abhorrent. His poor niece had no idea what the real future held for her.
He hated lying to Bloom with all of his heart, but at the very least that he and Oritel and given her and Marion the abridged version of the Prophecy.
If Bloom only knew. . . Alec had bit his lips, glancing at his half-empty tea.
Author's Note
I don't know what to say. . . I'm so heartbroken that Netflix decided to cancel Fate Season 3! Idk, I had a bad feeling that it was going to happen *weeps* because it always happen when I watch different shows! It's always after S2. Netflix is terrible! Like with every show I try to watch either beyond first season or second Netflix always manage to pull this type of shit! Cancel because it got so popular! Screw them! I just wanted to know what happened to Bloom? Flora? Did she lose her powers? Beatrix? That shitty big cliffhanger all for nothing. I'm always pissed at Netflix for randomly canceling shows!
Looks like that's it! I mean its a good show all on its own but at least owe us one more season and wrap up the series up! They always do this! Why do Netflix always start a series but can never finish a damned series? I mean its not that big of a loss since I still watch the cartoon from time-to-time, but I was really invested in Bloom's storyline or how Marion lost control of the Dragon Flame! I guess we won't get it. *Cries*
There's a petition going on for trying to revive Fate Season 3. I don't know if any of you are even interested in it and if you are please do sign for it! I did, but who knows. We could always try. I don't know if canceled shows gets renewed from that, but oh well. . . what a sad day :(
Oh well. . . I'm always on Fanfic anyways! I prefer the fanfic rewrite of the show LOL. As for Bright Lights, Black City I'm still writing it and love the Oritel x Marion moments plus the family dynamic and oooohhhh the winx too! Can't wait for them to uncover Bloom's family history, which shall be interesting! :)
Aside from all that: this Book's finale would be chapter 26. It would finally wrap up book one and a squeal will be out in early 2023. Chapter 25: "The Golden Kingdom" and Chapter Finale 26: "Bloom's Ultimate Choice." I will spill some details - like plot's summary and whatnot in the very end. So hold on tight and hang on for the next two chapters! :)
shadowhunter1400: Thank you! That chapter was soooo hard to write especially the battle scenes! Glad your excited! At least some positivity happening (sorry its because I'm salty because of Netflix, they always cancel my fav shows).
bex55: Oh my. . . hehehehe . . .thank you! Poor Bloom! She seriously can't catch a break! And yeah she's super traumatized, and well, it's gonna be hard for her to look Oritel in the eyes. Oritel. . . yikes! He's also as traumatized as Bloom or even worse because Bloom's his child and Valtor had his hands on her. . . I mean poor dude had to witness his child being touched inappropriately :( And as for Alec, yeah, he was being a jerk and plus his reaction was normal because his parents nearly got murdered by Valtor. . . he simply love his parents too much. . . as for Marion she was literally torn to pieces. . .all over the place :( And Stella rocked it with her blackhole! ;D
Asher174: Thank you! Thank you! Truly that kiss was something LOL.
I hope you had enjoyed this chapter!
Like always please leave your reviews and comments down below! I really do appreciate it and love to hear your thoughts about it!
Until Next Time!