"Yeah, thanks," said Musa. "Tell me, are you two actually bonded now?"
"No no," she replied with a chuckle. "My bond is with Cloud Tower. I just wanted to help Tegryn a bit, that's all."
"Why?" asked Bloom.
"Well, there were two conditions. First of all, he had to agree to help me guard the Codex when I need him. With his potential, I'd much rather have him on my side than on theirs. I suppose he could help Concorda too, if she wanted."
"Uh huh. And the second?"
"He agreed to let me brighten his wardrobe up a bit. If we're going to be working together, the least he can do is look the part!"
The girls laughed. "Now this I have to see!" joked Stella, smirking.
"Yes, it should be rather fascinating... if only he had half as much dress sense as you. Anyway, I must be getting back to Cloud Tower now. I'll be seeing you soon."
Tegryn waved. "OK, see ya! Oh, wait a minute... how will I know if you need me?"
"Trust me, you'll know!" And with that, Discorda vanished.
"Wow. That's some friend you've made there" Sky said to Tegryn.
In amongst all the hubbub, Charlotte stirred as the effects of the sleeping spell wore off.
"Oooh, where am I?" she murmured, before wincing in pain as the feeling came back into her frozen arm.
"Don't worry," said Riven as he carried her. "You're back at Alfea. Everybody's safe now."
Charlotte looked up at him and blushed a little... if this was a dream, she didn't want to wake up from it.
"Oh good, you're awake!" said Musa happily. "We're just gonna take you to Ofelia's for a check-up. How are you feeling?"
"My arm's really sore - it's cold, but it feels like it's burning."
"You've probably got some ice burns. It'll soon heal up though, I'm sure."
"Yeah, you need plenty of rest." said Tegryn. "In the meantime, just relax and enjoy your ride - I'm sure Riven will get you there in one piece!"
"Oi! Will you stop that?"
Hours later, Tegryn collapsed onto his bed. He had already said his goodnights to everyone (including a longer-than-usual goodnight kiss from you-know-who) and he was more than ready to get some much need shut-eye, but no sooner as he had got himself comfortable he was disturbed by a knock on his door.
"Oh, who on earth could that be at this time of night?"
Tegryn wearily opened the door.
"Good evening Tegryn. May we come in?"
"Oh. Ms Faragonda, Ms Griselda. Of course you can. Please take a seat."
"I hope we're not disturbing you - you're looking rather tired."
"Yes, it's been a rather long day."
"So we hear."
"How come?"
"News travels fast around here. We've heard a lot about what happened to you today in Aquisates."
"Yes, blimmin' witches. I wish they'd just butt out of my life."
"Yes. We've also heard that you've been in Cloud Tower. I'm sure you're fully aware of this school's policy about that."
"Uh-huh. I've also heard what you did to Musa and the others when they went up there one time - you suspended their powers."
"That's right, but that..."
"I can explain everything though. You see, I was in that cell and..."
"Calm down Mr Devanallt. We know exactly what happened, and we've asked Concorda to pass on our thanks to Discorda. Anyway, your brief excursion to Cloud Tower is not what concerns us."
"It isn't?"
"No, there's something else we'd like to talk to you about. Apparently you now have full access to the magic that Darcy gave to you."
"Yes, that's right."
"I'm sure you're aware that her magic is very powerful, and also very dark."
"I know, but don't worry - I'm sure I can control it."
"Well we're not so sure about that. You're only a beginner, and using that sort of magic when you're so inexperienced could have very bad consequences, not just for you but for everyone."
"Oh. I see."
"Yes. Therefore, myself and Ms Griselda have decided that you are forbidden to use that magic until we feel you are skilled enough in the basics."
"Forbidden? But..."
"No buts Tegryn. Believe me, we know what's best for you."
"I don't believe this... and just when I figured out a good use for that telekinesis magic too."
"And what might that be?"
"Well, I figured that if I cast it on myself, I could fly!"
"That's certainly very creative, but our decision stands - from now on, you are only allowed to use magic taught to you here in Alfea, either from us teachers or from your friends, until we say otherwise."
"Isn't there something I could do to change that dark magic to good magic? You know, like a spell or a potion or something?"
"Hmmm, magic purification? If it's possible, then I don't see why not. I think this would be a good start to your personal tuition, don't you agree Ms Griselda?"
"Definitely. First thing tomorrow, you can get yourself down the library to start your research."
"Tomorrow? But it's still the weekend! And anyway, the girls needs me to help..."
"You wanted extra tuition, didn't you?"
"Well, yes but..."
"Good. Then we'll hear no more about it - I want to see you in the library, 10am sharp tomorrow morning. I will supervise you personally"
Tegryn sighed. "Very well... ten it is."