Posted December 21, 2021. Happy Yule!
Previously on AUF…
Roxy stared in astonishment at the horse before her. He was well-built, but stocky and short. What struck her most of all was that the horse was pure black. Black, like the legends her father had told her as a child –
"He looks like Aonbharr," she breathed to her father, who grinned.
"Aonbharr, the horse of Oisín," he said. "Could fly faster than wind and travel across land and sea both. The gatekeeper of Tír na nÓg."
-o-o-o-
Musa turned. Artu was walking forward, the Black Circle around his neck. She stared at it, picking it up and showing it to the Winx.
"Let me see." Tecna scanned it with her sensors. "Powerful artifact, dating back to antiquity. It has the magic of the fay within it. I can tell that it must've been used by a very powerful fairy."
"It might lead us to Roxy," Bloom said softly. "We might be able to help her."
-o-o-o-
"I know this is hard for ya to accept," Musa said. "But you've known all your life you were different, haven't you? Now is the time for you to accept. I promise I will do everything in my power to make sure those Wizards don't so much as slap your head." She spotted the Book of Fay on the table, and held it out to Roxy.
"This belongs to you now," she said. "It will help you through this difficult journey, as well as us. But only if you accept."
Roxy stared at her. Musa thought she could see Roxy's emotions – fear, confusion, worry, anger – but also determination. She took the book from Musa's hands.
"Fine," she said, her voice irritable as ever. "I accept." She lifted the cover open, and a dazzling white light shot from inside…
CHAPTER 13: MIDWINTER'S EVE, PART II
Light in the Dark
On the Matter of the Tomb of Newgrange
The Newgrange Passage Tomb is located in Ireland. Built during the Stone Age, it is an earthen mound. It is said to be a sacred site for the Druids, who would perform sacred rituals there.
The most impressive thing about this fantastic passage tomb, though, is the light that shines in the winter solstice. The roofbox is aligned with the sun of the winter solstice's sunrise. On the sunrise of the winter solstice, a shaft of light pierces through the tunnel. To the Druids, this meant the beginning of a new year, that, even in the dead of the winter, there was still hope.
– From the Book of Fay
Newgrange, Ireland
Roxy opened her eyes. She couldn't see anything; it took her a moment to realize why. All around her was pitch-dark, the cold cave sucking the life out of her.
Musa! Artu! Winx! She stared around the cave in horror. Where are you?
Naturally, there was no response. She tried to pull herself off the ground, but a moment later, she fell down. Her mouth was bound and gagged, and there were cold shackles around her wrists and ankles. Draining all of her energy, they sucked all of the magic out of her, making it impossible to move.
Why am I locked here? Why was she in the cave, all by herself? Leaning back on her shoulders, she closed her eyes.
I can't believe this is happening. I must be going crazy. None of this is happening!
And yet, it was. There was absolutely nothing she could do. She tried to pull her binds off, but they bore into her skin, pain shooting up her wrists. She stared at them in horror.
They had bound her with iron.
"Hello, little fairy," a voice above her drawled. Staring upwards, Roxy stared as a figure emerged out of the shadows.
Ogron. His cold black eyes gleamed at her, and a smirk was upon his face. He knelt down right next to her.
"Wondering where we are?" he laughed. "Well, Midwinter's Eve is just around the corner. Tonight, actually. I daresay you'll find out." He let out a jarring laugh.
There were so many words Roxy wanted to say to him right at that moment. You awful excuse for a person! How could you take me from my life? What are you going to do to me?
As if sensing her questions, the Wizard let out a laugh. "Oh, you poor, poor fool. Still denying the power you hold within? You thought that those foolish girls would protect you, that they'd stop anything from happening to you. Well, guess what?" His eyes gleamed. "You miscalculated."
No, thought Roxy bleakly. The man smiled and stood up, turning away.
"Goodbye, Roxy," he said. With a flourish, he disappeared, leaving Roxy to helplessly stare into the dark.
"We have to do something!" Musa shouted.
The women were seated around the table, trying desperately to come up with a plan to save Roxy. Musa was the most exhausted as she glared around at them all.
We have to save her. We have to stop those Wizards from hurting her! She couldn't let anything happen to her friend. She glared around at the tired faces, all of whom stared bleakly back at her.
"The helicopter's broken," Tecna said tiredly. "It'll take a week to fix it. We can't exactly fly out anywhere and save Roxy!"
"Then we have to find another way!" Musa shouted back frantically. "We can't let her die!"
"Of course we can't?" Layla shot back. "But we're tired, don't you see? Yelling isn't going to help!"
"They're going to take her!" Musa screamed. "She could already be dead by now! We have to" –
"She's not dead," Tecna interrupted. "Not yet."
Everyone turned to her. "What do you mean?" Bloom demanded.
"I've been reading the Book of Fay," Tecna answered. "Remember what you said, Bloom, about the eves of Midwinter and Midsummer? Those are the two points of the year where fairies and humans can cross into each other's worlds. Unfortunately, it's also the time when the fay are the most vulnerable."
"So that means"… Stella said slowly.
"The Wizards are going to take her power," Musa whispered. "They're going to do it tonight. At midnight, they're going to steal all the magic from her!"
"We have to find them!" Flora cried. "We have to save her from the Wizards!"
"We don't know where she is," Bloom said, very slowly. "How on Earth are we going to find her?"
The Winx and Pixies stared at each other, horrified. They had absolutely no idea how they were going to track Roxy down in time for the winter solstice. Suddenly, Artu let out a bark.
"What's Artu doing?" Chatta asked. Artu seemed to be walking to the door, trying to lead them out. Does he know where she is? Do we need to follow him? She ran up to Artu, who looked impatiently at her. The circle blazed hot over his collar.
Suddenly, an idea came over her. She bent down towards Artu, grabbing the Black Circle. Immediately, he stopped pacing, barking in confusion.
"Musa!" Bloom shouted. "What're you" –
But she felt its pull as soon as it was in her hands – the same pull Artu had felt. It wants us to go a certain direction… Gazing into its center, she stared in confusion as a glassy light enveloped its center, and a scene appeared inside its depths.
She could see a ring of thirteen stones, each seeming to have magical powers. An ancient site, it did not look very majestic amid dull grasses and darkness. Nonetheless, she knew it would give them a clue of what to do next. She stared at the circle, astonished and amazed.
"We need to go there," she said, turning to the other women. "This circle is pulling me in the direction of this place. It's important that we get there!"
"I know that place," Lockette said, taking the circle in her hands. "This place is called Drombeg Stone Circle."
"But how'll we get there?" Musa groaned. "We don't have the helicopter!"
Artu still continued to bark. Musa groaned in confusion, wondering what Artu was up to. Suddenly, he ran out from under their feet, towards the stables.
"Artu!" Musa shouted. "Come back!" She ran after him, wondering what was going on.
The women raced out of the house, watching as Artu stopped at the pasture. He was standing in front of the fence, barking at a horse – Aonbharr. Musa stared in confusion as the horse neighed, looking miserable and angry.
"What does he want with Aonbharr?" Stella asked.
Chatta, though, seemed to have some insight. "I think he wants us to bring Aonbharr with us."
"No!" Musa shouted. "No way! What's he gonna do?"
"He knows Roxy well," Layla said, "as does Artu. I vote we bring them both along. They need to help us find her."
"So how's Aonbharr supposed to come with us?" Musa snapped, finally at her patience's end. "We can't get him here! We" –
"I think I can be of help." Baston arrived in the field. "The Drombeg Stone Circle is really not far from here."
"What're you saying?" Bloom asked.
"I'm saying you travel by horseback."
"That's going to waste so much time!" Musa protested. "It'll take us forever to reach there!"
"You abused your horses," Layla said severely to Baston. "You treat them cruelly, and yet, you expect them to allow riders on their backs?"
"Not all of them," Baston said, scratching his head. "I've been leasing them out to various people, so I don't have to take care of all of them. There're six horses that just came back to the farm, now that their leasers are on vacation. They're in… okay condition."
"Well, if that's the only way to Drombeg, we're going to take it," Bloom declared.
"I don't like heights," Stella said nervously. "I've never ridden a horse before. Are you sure" –
"You don't have a choice," Layla interrupted. "We have to save Roxy."
"Here we are," Baston said, opening the fence to a separate paddock. They stared in surprise.
Six horses stood in front of them. Musa couldn't tell which horse was male and which was female, another thing that confused her. Horses on Earth are so androgynous. On Melody, female horses were always more brightly-colored than their male counterparts.
"Three males and three females," Baston said, answering her unspoken question. "Here they are" –
A brown-and-white spotted horse walked up to Flora, who stared at the animal in awe. "You're so pretty," she breathed.
"Iknal is an Appaloosa mare," Baston said, tossing a pink saddle onto her back. "Appaloosas are American, and known for their distinctive spots."
"Is this a Quarter Horse?" Bloom asked, staring at a reddish-brown horse.
"Xena," Baston answered, lifting a blue saddle. "She's also American." Turning towards Stella, who had found the affections of a golden horse, he added, "Yours is American, too. Benedetto is an American Saddlebred gelding." He placed an orange saddle on the horse's back.
"For someone who hates horses, you know a lot about them," Layla said dryly, stroking a bay horse.
"Growing up with my mother, I didn't have a choice," he answered wryly, handing her a lime-green saddle. "Amir is a Murgese stallion, an Italian breed descended from Arabian horses."
"What about this horse?" Tecna asked, pointing to a gray horse.
"Pyotr, Tersk gelding," Baston said, placing a purple saddle on his back. "Bred for light riding."
That left Musa with a chestnut horse – mare, she could assume. Gazing up at the horse, she softly stroked her neck.
The horse had a white stripe down her forehead, and white stockings as well. She was short, but her head was lifted high. Baston gazed at her and whistled.
"Xu, Balikun mare from China," he said, giving her a deep red saddle. "Very hardy."
"You really do love horses, don't you?" Bloom asked softly.
Baston's face looked pained. "Yes," he said. "I didn't realize that until now." He smiled at them. "Thank you for making me understand."
"We'd better go," Bloom said. Turning the horses around, they made their way into the night.
Cherie flew above Aonbharr as he galloped down the road, with Artu tied to his back. The other pixies flew near her, murmuring to one another. She glanced ahead at the Winx, who were all riding their own horses without a problem.
Well, most of them. Bloom had apparently taken riding-lessons when she was young, and Musa and Layla, being good dancers, were able to keep their balance. Flora, although reluctant to mount the mare without asking her permission, was doing surprisingly well. Stella, however, was terrified of heights, and Tecna, although good with gadgets, could not control an animal that always did whatever he wanted. They had fallen off so many times that Musa, irritated with their lack of skill, had just gone ahead without them. Now Cherie, Aonbharr, and the pixies were following Musa, Layla, Bloom, and Flora as they headed down the trail.
It reminded Cherie of her old home. Not the Pixie Village of northern Magix, where everyone was so cheerful and carefree. No, she was from the South Pole of Magix. The
The Sarasvata Village was home to a small clan of pixies, the only surviving Iyer clan. Whereas fairy-beings and witches were classified into Iyer and Iyengar ethnicities, so were pixies. Her people had always had to live in fear of their lives. Of course, until that fateful day, when –
Instantly, she squeezed her eyes shut. But no matter how much she tried to block out the memories, they would always come back to her. Letting out a small whimper, she gazed up, and let out a gasp.
They were just reaching the crest of the hill. Drawing to a halt, the horses stopped just at the top. Cherie's jaw dropped as she stared at the monument ahead of her.
It was a stone-circle, consisting of thirteen stones. She could see them all aligned in perfect, syncretic harmony with each other. The axis-of-symmetry, she could tell, was aligned in the northeast-to-southwest direction. Behind the monuments were gray fields of pastures; although they were colorless, they still held a distinct, arid beauty.
She gazed at the southwest side. Ahead of her was a flat, horizontal stone, which was almost perfectly aligned with the sunset. The sunset itself seemed as if it were the personification of fire itself. Almost black at the top, it faded to a deep red, then crimson orange, and fiery yellow. The sun itself was a golden ball of flame, illuminating the pastures a rose-gold color with its last rays of light. The women gasped in awe.
"I can feel the magic here," Bloom whispered in amazement.
"Wait – who's that?" Flora pointed to their left.
An hunchbacked old woman was walking slowly towards the circle, with a cane made of oak. She was humming to herself as she gazed down at the ground, not at all affected by the appearance of the girls. The woman looked upwards, her green eyes piercing straight through Cherie.
Somehow, Cherie couldn't look away. She stared into the woman's eyes, feeling the wisdom deep within her.
"She can see us!" Digit gasped in amazement.
"Uh"… Stella voiced what everyone was thinking. "Who are you?"
The woman didn't answer. Instead, she spoke cheerfully, as if it was a completely ordinary day for her. "The sunset is quite beautiful on this day, isn't it?"
"Yeah," Musa answered, drily. "We noticed. Now can we get out of here, please?" She turned around, muttering, "What was the point of coming to this place?"
"Wait," Bloom insisted. Turning back towards the woman, she asked, "Do you think you could help us?"
"What're you doing?" Tecna hissed. "She's a human woman – she doesn't know anything about magic! This is completely illogical!"
But Cherie thought she could sense something in the woman – something more than she let on. She continued humming, gazing around the stone-circle.
"These stones are all connected to one another, in a ring," she observed. "Each feeds into the other, and the power runs endlessly in a circle, over and over again. This great energy cannot be taken away; however, by observing it, we can find inner-peace."
"We don't need inner-peace," Musa snarled. "I've had enough of this, okay? We need to find Roxy!"
Cherie stared forward at the woman, her eyes questioning and confused. She let out a sigh, one she hadn't known she'd been holding within. And then, without quite meaning to, she flew to the center of the circle.
"Cherie?" Layla asked in confusion. "What's going on?"
The woman sat in front of Cherie. Although she was far smaller than her, Cherie herself only being the size of the woman's head, she didn't look like a tall, terrifying monument – rather, she seemed like a guide, almost like how Ninfea had been to her. She gently took Cherie's hand.
"I sense you are one with great sorrow," she said. "You have experienced great trauma and pain in your lifetime. But you can turn it around, using Nature's energy to heal yourself. She shall give you hope – but only if you harness Her energy properly."
"Cherie?" Tune asked, sounding unsure. "You've" – She stared at her, looking worried.
Cherie gazed back at Tune sadly. She knew it wasn't Tune or her sisters' fault that they hadn't understood her – they simply hadn't grown up with the same values as her. Even flippant, insensitive Chatta really was a kind pixie at heart. But she couldn't muster any reassurance or sympathy for Tune right now.
"What's going on?" Musa demanded. "Can someone tell us what's going on?"
The woman chuckled. "It's quite simple, dearies. Although each of the stones has its own unique qualities, they are all connected in a round ring, no one stone superior to the other. The same is true of the Black Circle." She pointed to the circlet that Bloom held. "Its six ovals are each important, in their own way, and at the same time, they are completely interconnected. Just like the entire universe."
"Really?" Stella crossed her arms. "The whole universe?"
"Of course," the woman answered, not at all fazed. "Everything in this world is connected, both nature and cultures alike. If you listen closely enough, you can hear every living thing breathe together, every person's love-songs sing the same tune. Hierarchy and division is an illusion created by the mortal mind, when the true order is through syncretic balance. From the smallest asteroid of the universe to the largest metropolis in the world, we are all one."
"I don't know," Layla muttered. "Earth is completely different from the rest of the galaxy, if you ask me."
"Is it really, though?" Bloom frowned. "Are we, really, fundamentally all that different? I still had the same insecurities and doubts when I came to Alfea. There were similar prejudices, similar cultures, and similar histories. But most importantly, there was the same drive – the desire to succeed. We all share that, no matter what."
"That's actually really insightful," Flora commented. "And true."
"Fine," Musa said, ever so impatient. "But I don't see how that helps us."
"Wait a minute," Tune mused. "'Hierarchy and division is an illusion.'" She pointed to the Black Circle, which Bloom held. "Give it to Cherie!"
Bloom frowned and held it in front of the pixie, who stared at it. Gazing through the Circle, she let out a gasp.
The site looked very different from the way it did now. Through the Circle's gaze, she could see fairies dancing in a ring, right at the inner edge of the circle. Musa snatched the Circle back, letting out a gasp.
"I can't believe it," she cried out. "The Circle lets us see Earth as it once was!"
"Before the fairies were attacked," Bloom added. "This is amazing!"
The woman smiled, not at all fazed by their talk about fairies and different planets.
"You are blessed to have come across this object," she said. "Any circular object with a hollow center, either created by the fay or by natural means, shall grant you the Sight to see into Faerie Queendoms. It shall allow you to See the world as it once was, without the illusion of time."
"So this Circle was created by the fay," Bloom whispered, staring at it. "Amazing."
Cherie stared up at the woman. Everything is connected… Maybe all hope wasn't lost yet. She sat back, gazing straight into the woman's eyes.
"Very good," the woman smiled. "Now sit cross-legged, back straight, and close your eyes. Holding your palms together."
Cherie had done this many times before. She had done this in the Sarasvata Village every morning, for her prayers to the gods. It had been something everyone did to achieve inner-peace, but Cherie had never felt anything but silence when she'd done her prayers before.
This was different. She could actually feel something inside of her, a magical current flowing in a circle, all around her. It moved in a clockwise direction, with the grain of Nature Herself. She could feel it raising her, lifting her high up, far above.
Roxy… Where could she possibly be? Where had she been taken? She concentrated on the ever-connectivity between all life-forces, feeding deep into her soul.
She could sense Roxy's pain and fears. The pain that she felt, at being alone and lost, and the fear she felt at how isolated she truly was from everyone. She could sense her deep consternation, hidden deep inside.
I'm going to find you. She focused on Roxy's energy, feeling the magic swirl within her. I'm going to find you, and bring you back!
Suddenly, she saw a vision. An circular earthen mound, one that was thousands of years old. Through the mound, a stone passageway bore down to deep tunnels, filled with mysteries and turns. As old as Ireland itself… She stared in amazement, taking it all in.
She opened her eyes. The woman smiled at her kindly, her expression filled with wisdom. "Have you found what you're looking for?"
"What happened?" Musa gasped. "What did she find?"
"Maybe you should start by asking her directly," the old woman answered.
"Cherie – what did you find?" Layla asked urgently.
Cherie flew up to Tune and pulled a sheet of paper from her pad. Scribbling quickly, she wrote 'NEWGRANGE PASSAGE TOMB' on the paper.
The Winx stared at it in confusion. "What's that?" Stella asked.
"Let me check." Digit turned on her phone. Scanning through it, she stared in astonishment.
"It's an ancient site, built about five-thousand years ago," she said. "A place where the Druids did many of their rituals. They're keeping Roxy there!" She looked through her phone, and let out a gasp.
"It's far from here," she groaned. "If the helicopter was working, we could reach in an hour. But since it isn't, we'll have to find a bus, or a van, or something. It'll take us a good seven hours for us to get there!"
"It's sixteen o'clock now," Bloom said, checking her watch. "If we go now, we should be there by approximately twenty-three o'clock."
"What if we go?" Amore squeaked. "If we go first, we should reach there in less time! Why don't you" –
"Great idea!" Stella interrupted crossly. "Let's send the pixies so they can become fodder real quick! No, we can't do that, Amore. We're all going together."
"But we can't just leave the horses here!" Flora protested. "What're we going to do about them?"
Cherie's eyes shot up. Pulling out a sheet of paper, she wrote one word: Baston. Layla gazed at it, and her eyes widened.
"Good idea," she said. Turning to the others, she said, "I'll call Baston." She opened her phone, dialing his number. He answered within the first ring, and she held it to her ear. Frowning, she put it down, gazing at the others.
"He's going to bring a trailer for the horses," she said, "but we have to drive it all the way to Newgrange. There's not enough time for him to bring multiple vehicles."
"Are you joking?" Musa looked as if she was about to hit someone.
"It's the only chance we've got," Bloom answered sharply. "We have no choice." She nodded. "Come on, everyone. Let's get ready."
Roxy lay on the floor, her legs and arms bound together. She felt as if she hadn't breathed properly in years, as if she had no power. Her arms were utterly weak, and her eyes were half-closed.
She couldn't believe this was happening. Never had she felt so alone, not even when she was being bullied. Not even when her father screamed at her for all of those fights. More than anything, she wished she could bring those times back.
But I can't. There was absolutely nothing she could do to get out of here. She stared upwards, the fear crawling deeper and deeper into her heart.
"Ogron?" she heard a voice above her. It was a female voice, presumably from the floor above. "We need to feed Roxy."
"Oh, right." There was Ogron's disdainful voice. "Take her some of those mushrooms, why don't you?" A moment later, she heard soft footsteps, heading closer towards her, down a tunnel. The figure soon came into her chamber, and she stared in shock.
It was none other than Krithi.
"You," Roxy snarled, hatred in her tone. She couldn't believe this girl was conspiring with the Wizards. Krithi placed a tray of mushrooms on the ground, whispering, "I hope you enjoy your dinner."
In response, Roxy spat at the food. Krithi winced, looking miserable. To Roxy's disgust, she sat next to her on the floor.
"Please," she whispered. "I'm sorry I had to do this to you, but the Wizards are here to help."
"They nearly killed me!" Roxy snarled. "Is that what you consider 'helpful'?"
"For too long, fairies have abused their power over humans," Krithi answered. "All the Wizards are trying to do is equalize everyone. By taking away your powers, they'll be able to equalize the world for everyone."
"What about their power?" Roxy shot back. "They're gonna take over the world! And you're helping them?" She shook her head in disbelief. "You know what, this whole thing is just crazy."
"Krithi," a voice barked, and the Indian girl immediately stood up. She scampered away just as Ogron came into view.
Rage boiled in her heart. Who does he think he is? What made him think he could control her like this, and force her into submission? She glared at him, letting all of her fury out.
"How dare you drag me over here?" she snarled. "As if everyone doesn't think I'm a loser enough? Well, all of you are wrong. You're the freak here, not me!"
"Is that a wise thing to say, when I have magic and you don't?" Ogron smiled. "I could strike you down at any moment, if I wished."
"Your scare-tactics won't work on me," Roxy said defiantly. "You're a horrible person – don't you know that? You use your power to intimidate people!"
"And you don't?"
Roxy stared up at him, completely taken aback. "Of – of course not!"
"Then why did you beat up Giovanni?" Ogron answered. "Or all those kids in the four other schools? You were trying to intimidate them, weren't you?"
Roxy clenched her fists, her expression furious. Ogron's mouth turned into a twisted, sneering smile.
"I have been watching you," he said. "You see, the two of us have a strong link, dear Roxy – a link tied from our opposing magical energy. The moment you were born, I sensed your emotions, your desires, and your fears. And I know who you are." He leered at her. "I will say, though; that is one of the great things I admire about you. Your willingness to use whatever means necessary to squash out threats is formidable. It's a quality we both share."
"You and I are nothing alike!" Roxy spat.
"Listen," Ogron said coldly. "I'll make a deal with you. I'll let you go home after this – we can forget this whole thing happened. As long as you step in-line with whatever I say, you can go home tonight. Understood?"
That made Roxy pause. She stared up at him, her eyes narrowed. "Really?"
"Of course," Ogron answered. "You will get to go home and live the life you've always wanted, and never have to suffer again. You'll be safe, without any fear tainting your heart."
Home. For the first time, a glimmer of hope lifted in Roxy's heart. He would send her back home, back to Gardenia. She would never have to worry about any of this fairy nonsense again.
"Can I really go home?" she whispered. She sounded like a small child, she knew – but she was too tired to care. "Go back home to Daidí and Artu? Where I can be – normal?"
"Of course," Ogron smiled. "You will never have to worry about any of this. I promise, the Winx will never bother you again."
A strange feeling of grief came over her heart. Musa – she'll be gone… But that was the price she'd willingly pay for normalcy. She let out a sob, lowering her head.
"Fine," she murmured. "As long as I don't ever have to see you again, either." She glared up at him. Ogron smiled.
"There's a good girl," he said. "Now just sit tight and we'll come for you at midnight." He turned around and headed straight into the cave.
I'm going home, Roxy thought. For once, it didn't matter what he did to her, or what lies he told to string her heart. She would be safely back home by the night's end. Closing her eyes, she fell into a light sleep, the plate of fungi untouched by her side.
The car shot down the road, speeding as fast as it possibly could with seven horses in the trailer behind. Musa sat down, her teeth gritting.
She wanted – no, she needed – to get to Roxy as soon as possible. But they just weren't moving fast enough. The maximum speed they could go at was 100 kph, and they didn't want any of the horses to be hurt.
She glanced at the other women, all of whom were looking extremely exhausted. It was late at night, and the freezing rain from before had come back again. They were in County Meath, the cold drilling into them far more than it had on the south coast.
They had all crammed themselves into the car, and were sitting on-top of each other. Baston was driving, and she, Layla, Bloom, Artu, and their Pixies were all crammed into the passenger-row. They'd managed to put down a seat, opening up a back-row for Flora, Stella, and their Pixies. Tecna and Digit were in the front-seat, giving directions to Baston.
She imagined losing Roxy to the Wizards of the White Circle. She imagined the fairies trapped away forever, their fates sealed. She imagined failing, like she'd failed before.
I can't let her go. She couldn't live with the knowledge she'd condemned the Earth to eternal darkness, nor could she bear losing the young girl, who'd become a friend in mere minutes. She swallowed.
"We're only about fifteen minutes from Newgrange," Baston called. "Is everyone ready?"
"I've prepared a bunch of healing-potions," Flora said. "If anyone needs them, I have them all bottled up."
"We have our weapons ready," Bloom said. "Pixies, your defenses?"
"Yes," Tune declared. "We're ready to attack the Wizards if need-be."
Musa pulled out Excalibur, holding it ready. Five hours had passed since they'd departed Drombeg. It was now a quarter-past twenty-three o'clock. In forty-five minutes, they're going to take her! She clenched her teeth, fear rising up her heart.
"Good," Baston said, steering the car. "So let's" –
A siren sounded straight behind them, knocking them all off-guard. What's that? Musa looked out the window and gasped.
A police-car was heading straight towards them.
"Quickly!" Musa shouted frantically. Baston shook his head.
"I can't!" he shouted. "It'll endanger the horses inside!"
"Then we have to stop!" Bloom gasped. "Everyone, play cool, okay? They'll probably just give us a traffic-violation and then head off."
"Just our luck," Musa snapped as Baston pulled up on the curb. Her heart pounding, she gazed upwards as the police headed out of their car, towards them. They had weapons drawn and were glaring at the women. She heard one of them say something in English to the other, and Bloom let out a gasp.
"They know who we are!" she cried. "They're here to arrest us!"
How could we have forgotten that? How stupid could they be? Musa wanted to scream out in anger. They'd come so far – and now, they were about to lose to a group of human police?
One of the men headed straight towards them, his eyes furious. But before he could do anything, Tecna had raised her blaster to Baston's head.
"Pretend you're scared," she hissed to him. To the police, she shouted, "Make one move forward, and I'll blow this man down!"
Baston whimpered, looking genuinely terrified.
"They're kidnapping me!" he hissed. "They've taken me and my horses hostage!"
"No one move!" the policeman shouted.
This isn't going to work, Musa thought frantically. They were at a stalemate, and by the looks of it, the police would soon have the upper-hand. We have to get out of here. She turned to Tune.
"On my mark," she hissed, "one – two – three!" Tune created a shield around them, blasting two of the men off their feet.
Instantly, a policewoman fired. But rather than hitting them, the bullet evaporated into the shield. She stared in horror, not able to see the shield in front. "What was that?"
"Listen," Bloom said urgently, "we don't want to hurt you! There're greater forces at-work here, worse than you can imagine! Please, just let us go!"
"No chance," the policeman said, standing up. "Do not move."
"We need to get out of here!" Musa hissed. "Pixies! Get ready to mobilize!"
Instantly, the Pixies converged their magic together, creating a shield around the women, Artu, and Baston. Tecna pulled the blaster from Baston's head and yanked him out. They ran to the trailer, and the police continued firing shots.
But the forcefield held true. Tecna quickly unlocked it, running inside.
"I'll get the horses out!" she shouted.
"We can't keep up this shield forever!" Lockette shouted. Though the police had stopped firing, they were now running at the Winx, but the shield prevented them from getting closer. "I can't hold it!"
"Then it's our turn!" Bloom lifted her shield up. "Winx, defend yourselves, but don't use force against these humans!"
The forcefield vanished, and the troopers charged at the women. Immediately, Musa backflipped in the air, the same way Layla had taught her many years ago. They tried attacking, but Musa quickly ducked out of the way, avoiding the policeman's baton.
The human's movements were slow and predictable. Not for the first time, Musa was grateful for Griselda's intense drilling during sophomore year. Her reflexes were strong, and she dodged every single fist and kick, the policeman tiring easily.
But she didn't know how much longer she could keep it up, either. The rain fell like icicles down at her, and she hollered in pain as it smacked her in the shoulder. She was completely soaked, cold and frozen to the bone. Yet she couldn't stop fighting, for she knew what would happen to Roxy if she did.
Suddenly, a neigh sounded above her – seven neighs, in fact. She looked up and had the shock of her life.
The trailer ramp had opened. Seven horses were charging down at full-speed, straight towards the Winx. "Duck!" she shouted, pulling Baston out of the way.
The horses stopped at the bottom; immediately, she leapt onto Aonbharr's back, carrying Artu with her as well. Baston climbed onto Xu. The other Winx got onto their horses, defending themselves with the higher-ground. Bloom turned to Musa.
"Head north – we'll cover for you," she hissed. "The Black Circle!" She tossed to Musa, and the Melodian woman expertly caught it, placing it around her left wrist. Tune and Cherie leapt onto her shoulder. She then turned her horse around, and they raced down the road.
"After them!" the policewoman roared. "Call backup!"
"Sorry!" Layla knocked the walkie-talkie out of the policeman's hand with the Spear of Lugh. "We can't let you do that!" She and the Winx continued battling the police, trying to break through.
Musa winced as the icy rain battered against her. "How much longer will it be until we reach?" she asked frantically.
"Another half-hour!" Baston shouted back. "It's going to take a while!"
Musa gritted her teeth as they bore down the highway. Thankfully, there were very few cars, though she didn't know how long the other Winx would be able to hold off the police. She bore in through the rain, feeling it freeze her down. Baston slowed down.
"Xu is tiring," he called, "but Aonbharr is not. I'm going to have to catch up with the others." His eyes glowed. "Run with him, Musa. Set him free!"
Musa nodded. Holding onto Artu tightly, she whispered to Aonbharr, "Go, boy!" She loosened the reins, and he thundered forward at a full gallop.
Now, she finally understood why Roxy loved this horse so much. She could feel his strong muscles beneath him, the strength he carried within, the sheer joy he held at being able to run. She let out a whoop, and Tune and Cherie laughed with glee.
They raced down the road, heading straight down the valley. There, Musa could see water dripping from the trees, farm-country all around her. The half-moon was bright in the sky as they raced past various earthen mounds, and Musa stared at them in fascination.
"All of those mounds are passage-tombs," Tune explained, "but we have to get to Newgrange. That's ahead of us."
"There it is – look!" Musa drew Aonbharr to a halt, staring in amazement.
A great, circular mound was ahead of them, bare and brown. Around it was a white base, going fully around the mound. It looks a lot like the Black Circle. She lifted the Circle into the air, frowning as she stared ahead.
"It's beautiful," Tune breathed.
Artu barked loudly, leaping off of Aonbharr's back. He started running towards the tomb, and Musa grabbed him by the collar.
"Stop!" she hissed. "I know you can scent her, but we can't go in so quickly! The Wizards will catch us!"
"What'll we do?" Tune asked fearfully.
Musa frowned. What will we do? None of the other Winx were here; she was going to have to save Roxy on her own. "If only we could figure out exactly where she is" –
Suddenly, Cherie let out a squeak. Musa turned towards the pixie, who was pointing at the mound with wide eyes.
"What?" Musa asked, irritably. "I don't see any" – She stared up at the top, her eyes wide.
White lightning was rising out from the top of the mound. But that's from the – She let out a gasp of horror. "They're getting ready to bring Roxy there!"
"But how're we going to go in?" Tune gasped. "We can't fight the Wizards all on our own!"
Suddenly, Cherie thrust a notepad in Musa's face. Musa read the lines quickly, her eyes widening. I can find her. She stared at Cherie.
… "You can?" she asked.
In response, Cherie sat on Artu's back. She turned towards Musa, as if asking her permission. Musa nodded slowly.
She had no idea why she trusted Cherie to do this, especially since she barely knew her. But she'd found this place for them; if anyone could find Roxy, it was her. She turned to Tune.
"Cherie will dial you when she finds Roxy," she said. "Hopefully she'll be able to pull Roxy out of the cave, without any trouble. She'll bring her out, and we'll head straight back to the car and get her to safety."
"Got it!" Tune squeaked as Artu and Cherie bounded into the cave. Musa watched, only hoping that her friend would be free.
Cherie sat low on Artu's back, her eyes nervous as she stared around. There was nothing she could see; the passageway was utterly dark and damp. She lowered her head on Artu's back as he rode inside, feeling more and more nervous.
She could sense the young fairy's presence nearby. She could feel her very, very close, her magic stronger than anything she'd ever felt before. I've got to save her. She nudged Artu gently forward, trying to find where she was.
Suddenly, Artu drew to a halt. Voices sounded around the corner, and Cherie knelt down in terror. They hid behind a crevasse in the wall as the men spoke.
"It's almost time to get the fairy," Duman muttered. "I'm so tired of turning into beasts just to defeat those pesky Winx."
"You won't have to for much longer." This was Anagan's voice. "Five minutes, and the White Circle will open its doors. Soon, the fairy shall belong to us, and her power, too. Then the magic of the fairies will no longer cease to exist!"
"I can't wait," Duman sniggered. "I heard from Ogron that she completely fell for it. Said she'd cooperate, as long as she could get home. She has no idea what's coming for her!"
Oh no! Cherie's heart beat fast. I have to get to her! She held her breath as the two Wizards walked past the crevasse, up the tunnel. As soon as they were out of earshot, she nudged Artu forward, and they both galloped off.
They ran down the tunnel, to the bowels of the cave. Ahead of them, Cherie sensed her presence instantly. The fairy radiated powerful magic, and she was sitting there, her eyes closed. Instantly, Artu ran up to her, licking her face.
"Artu!" Roxy gasped in amazement. "How'd you get here?" She stared upwards, and then she let out a gasp.
For the first time, Cherie saw her exactly as she was. She looked beautiful and formidable, her sunny yellow turtleneck and deep blue jeans giving her a warm, fierce look. Her thick pink hair glided down her shoulders, and she had a fierce, wolfish look in her eyes. Yet beneath all that bravado, Cherie could tell who she truly was: a lonely, terrified girl with no idea of what to do with her life.
Just like me, Cherie realized. She too was lost and abandoned, and couldn't figure out any path forward. She flew into Roxy's hand, staring up at her.
A sky-blue cocoon surrounded them both. Cerulean eyes met sapphire, and they stared at each other, connecting wholly and completely. Roxy placed her hand on Cherie's head.
"You're lost, just like me," she whispered. "We abandoned souls have to stick together." She gently cuddled her to her chest, smiling.
The cocoon vanished, and Cherie smiled. For the first time, she giggled, feeling happy and light. I'm bonded! She now felt as if nothing would ever happen to them, that nothing would ever –
"What's that noise?" someone called above her.
In horror, Cherie flew towards Roxy, trying to tug on her shoulder. Don't go with him! Roxy stared at her, a confused expression on her face.
"What're you trying to say?" she asked.
Cherie wished, more than anything, that her lips would move. She wished her tongue would formulate words, and she'd be able to speak out-loud. But all that came out of her mouth was muffled pants and shrieks. The footsteps came closer, and Roxy glared at them.
"Quick – hide!" she hissed, shoving both Cherie and Artu into a crack. Artu was about to bark, but Cherie thrust her hand in front of his mouth. Then someone entered the room – Gantlos.
"I thought I heard something," he said disdainfully, "but I suppose it was just you." He glared at her. "Ready?"
"Fine," she scowled back, with equal tenacity. "I'm ready."
"Excellent," Gantlos said with a smile. Cherie stared in horror as he led Roxy down the path, straight towards the exit.
I'm not letting him take her! She wasn't going to let Roxy disappear, or be hurt by these Wizards. Nudging Artu forward, they crept out through the tunnel, determined to find Musa and get her down.
Roxy climbed up the steps, with Gantlos holding tightly onto her back. She glared at him, her eyes narrowed.
"You don't have to hold onto me," she snapped. "In case you haven't noticed, my hands are bound."
"I don't trust you." Gantlos's breath was down her ear. "You fairies are nothing but cheaters and swindlers."
"Then good that I'm not going to be one anymore," Roxy muttered as they headed up the steps.
They reached a central chamber. Had it not been for the invention of lanterns, the entire place would've been pitch-black. As it was, there was a dim light in the chamber, and she found she could see well-enough.
Ogron, Anagan, Duman, and Krithi were waiting for her inside. She swallowed as they pushed her forward, to the center of the chamber. Ogron's eyes gleamed.
"For over seven hundred years, I've been imprisoned," he whispered, "and finally, she is right here before us." He turned to Gantlos. "Is it midnight yet?"
"Almost," Gantlos answered. Ogron smiled.
"Let us begin," he declared. Linking his hands with his Wizards, he shouted, "May the doors of the White Circle o" –
A pink arrow thwacked him in the shoulder. He let out a howl, dropping his hands. "Who is that?" he demanded furiously. Roxy turned around, and stared in shock.
Musa was standing before her, wearing a black-and-red suit. Her eyes were enraged as she glared at Ogron, dropping her bow and picking up the sword Excalibur from behind her back. "Don't you dare take her!" she snarled.
"How dare you" – Ogron seethed. "You dare come here, after all I've worked for?"
"Yes, I dare!" Musa snarled. "Roxy, don't go with him! He's not going to let you go after this!" Behind Anagan, Roxy saw Krithi slowly backing away, something like fear or confusion in her eyes. She turned around and ran into the tunnel.
"What're you talking about?" Roxy snapped back. She had no patience for Musa right now, not when she was about to be rid of this curse forever. "He's going to make me normal again! Just like I always was!"
"And you really think he'll let ya go after this?" Musa retorted. "Do you think he'll let you live your quiet life in Gardenia? Of course not! He's just gonna throw you into stasis, along with the rest of the fay!"
"She's right!" Tune stared forward, looking desperate. "You have to get out of here!"
Ogron laughed. "The fairy's already made up her mind!" He lifted his hands, joining forces with the other men.
The White Circle formed around her, a huge white twister that lifted her up into the air. Roxy screamed out as she was lifted up, the power enveloping her. She felt nothing but pain, nothing she hadn't felt before –
Stop it! she gritted her teeth. You have to let them do this! They'll let you go if you submit! Clenching her teeth, she bore against the pain, trying to let the magic flow out of her and into the light.
"Musa!" a voice sounded behind her. "What's going on?"
Musa turned around. The other Winx had just arrived, and were staring at Roxy with horror. "Where's Aonbharr?" Bloom shouted.
"I don't know!" Musa shouted back. "I tied him outside the cave, because Cherie came back to get me. Tune and I rushed in here, but by then, it was too late!" She stared up at Roxy in distress, seeing her towering high in the air.
Next to her, Artu barked angrily, and Cherie cried out in pain. She stared at the pixie in distress, wishing there was something she could do – but there was absolutely nothing.
"It doesn't matter," Layla interrupted. "We have to stop them!" She threw her Spear at Ogron, trying to knock off his power-source.
But that only enraged him further. He sent a bolt of lightning at Layla, and she screamed as she was hit. Stella and Tecna ran forward, aiming their Stones at Gantlos.
The twister grew stronger, and a forcefield shot them back. The women gasped in horror as they stared up.
"We can't get her out of there!" Flora cried. "It's too strong!"
"No!" Musa stared up at Roxy, aghast. The girl was lying still in the forcefield, and she looked as if death had come atop her. "You can't give in! You can't let them take over your life!" She held up the Black Circle, pointing it directly at her. "Roxy!"
Suddenly, Roxy pulled herself upright, a blue aura around her body. The Circle left Musa's hands, and she watched, amazed, as it flew into Roxy's hands. She landed on the ground, the White Circle dissipating entirely.
"What's that?" Ogron gasped, staring at the Black Circle in horror. "How is that" – He broke off as Roxy lifted it in the air, creating a white light –
But then Gantlos and Anagan surrounded her, white lighting blazing her to the ground. Ogron let out a cackle.
"Excellent," he laughed. "Get that thing out of her hands! We need to activate the White Circle!"
"No!" Musa ran forward, trying to stop him, but he blasted her back. She fell down in pain, knowing that this was the end, that Roxy would never be saved –
Suddenly, a loud neigh entered the air. Hooves broke into the ground, and a white horse flew inside, his eyes gleaming. Knocking the Winx aside, he stared down at Roxy, naught but intelligence in his eyes.
"Aonbharr!" Roxy cried. "You made it! I – I don't believe it!"
"Enough!" Ogron glared at them, fury in his eyes. "I won't let you get us!" He lifted his hand, trying to attack.
But then Cherie flew forward, shooting a blue spark of energy at him. He fell to the ground, shouting curses.
"I won't have a foolish horse and a stupid pixie get the best of me!" he yelled.
Cherie flew to Roxy's shoulder, and the two exchanged a knowing smile. The Black Circle gleamed with power as she and Artu leapt onto Aonbharr's back. Musa stared, openmouthed, as Roxy nudged the horse forward, and he broke into a gallop. She flew straight at the Wizards, whose eyes widened in horror.
"I've had enough of this!" she shouted, lifting the Black Circle in the air. "Let's get them, Aonbharr!" She flew straight at Ogron.
"That's – that's" – Anagan stuttered, fear in his eyes.
"Come on, Winx!" Musa shouted, pulling herself off the ground. "Let's help her!" She lifted her bow, sending arrows at Gantlos.
Layla, Tune, and Piff immediately joined her side, and they dueled the Wizard. Next to her, she saw Bloom and Stella taking on Anagan, and Musa and Tecna fighting Duman. She lifted Excalibur, pointing it straight at the Wizard.
She gasped as a sonic-attack filled the air, and a screech sounded in her ears. Collapsing to the ground, she let out a cry as Gantlos towered over her, ready to take her down –
"Rude awakening!" Tune shot a spell at Gantlos, forcing him to double back. "You need a lesson in etiquette, and fast!"
But Gantlos sent a huge wave at them, and they fell to the ground, gasping. He stood over the four of them, his eyes glinting. "You're done for."
Musa stared upwards, worried. Bloom, Stella, Flora, and Tecna had too been defeated by their opponents, and she could only watch helplessly. Anagan smiled, lifting his hands.
"It's been nice knowing you meddlesome fairies," he smirked, "but we're going to finish you off. Thousands of years ago, this cave served as a burial-site. It shall now serve as yours!" Duman pointed upwards, ready to strike –
A blue ray of light hit him squarely in the head. He toppled to the ground, shouting out as a blinding light filled the cave. Musa stared forward, filled with shock.
A girl rode forward on a black horse, her entire aura shining blue. Her eyes glowed white, and dazzling rays shot out of the Black Circle she held. Cherie was riding on Artu, a magical sphere in her hands.
The Wizards shouted as they were blasted out of the cave. They flew out through the opening, straight into the cold of the outdoors. Musa stared, mesmerized, as the fairy expelled them out of her sight, straight out into the darkness.
Behind her, Ogron ran up the path. His eyes widened as he saw the Winx and Pixies standing before him, ready to attack. Realizing he was far outnumbered, his lips turned into a snarl.
"This isn't over!" he snarled. With a burst of shadow, he disappeared, out into the dark.
Suddenly, the light rays stopped shining around Roxy. The white glow faded, and she looked tired – poisoned, even. Without warning, she fell from Aonbharr's back.
"Roxy!" Musa ran up to her, catching her just before she fell. She let out a gasp as she held her in her arms, the fragile fairy breathing heavily.
"Oh no," Stella breathed. "Is she okay?"
"Get her down on the floor." Flora had already pulled out her healing-potions. "She exhausted a lot of energy in the fight, but I assure you, an Energy-Boosting Tonic is all she needs to wake up."
But hours passed, and still Roxy hadn't awoken. Cherie stared at her bonded fairy in distress as she lay on the ground, her eyes closed. Flora stared over her, her eyes worried.
"Ogron's energy has burrowed into her heart," she whispered. "She has to fight the venom and get out of this state herself!"
"What's going on?" Baston had appeared, and was staring at the group of women. "What happened to her?" He stared at Roxy in horror.
"We were battling the Wizards," Bloom answered. "They were about to take Roxy's magic, but then at the last moment, she used hers to defeat them all. She was badly injured, though." Baston looked horrified.
"We need to get her to a hospital," he cried. "I'll call one immediately!"
"Don't be illogical," Tecna hissed. "This is a magical illness! They can do nothing for her!"
"Roxy"… Musa was staring down at the fairy, tears in her eyes. "Please, be okay"… She brushed a lock of hair out of her face, staring down.
Cherie too stared at Roxy, at her heart-shaped face, at her flowing pink hair, at her closed eyes. Even while sleeping, she looked sorrowful. She gazed at her, wondering if there was anything she could do to help her bonded-fairy heal.
At that precise moment, the lantern went out.
"What's going on?" Stella screamed in shock.
"It's so dark in here!" Flora cried. "Pixies, give us a little light!"
"We can't!" Digit cried. "Our energy is all used-up. It'll take me approximately three hours and forty-five minutes of sleep for us to recharge."
"Then what'll we do?" Bloom cried.
Unlike the others, Cherie felt no fear in her heart. The darkness was just a part of Nature – just how things were, before the invention of modern technology. She flew down to Roxy's chest.
Nature shall give you hope – but only if you harness Her energy properly. Roxy was a fairy, and therefore a humble servant of Nature – the greatest, most powerful goddess of the world. Placing her hands on Roxy's heart, she meditated slowly in the dark.
Suddenly, a brilliant shaft of light pierced through the passageway. It illuminated them all, filling them with a renewed sense of brightness they'd never felt before. The Winx, Pixies, and Baston cried out in amazement.
"That's so beautiful!"
"What's going on?"
Immediately, Cherie felt her energy return, emboldening her. She could feel her blue magic tunneling out of her hands, heading straight into Roxy's heart. Her body once again was covered in an aura, this time azure. The Winx gasped in astonishment as Roxy opened her eyes, staring upwards.
She saw Cherie. Sitting up, she hugged her tightly to her chest. "Thanks, for saving my butt out there," she admitted, though still gruffly. Cherie held her too, tears pouring down her cheeks.
She had about two seconds with Roxy before Musa dove in, grabbing onto the Earth fairy. "You were great out there," she whispered. "You're going to be a great fairy, Roxy."
"Yeah, yeah." Roxy sighed. "I guess I don't have a choice." She looked upwards, and gasped. "Woah!"
The golden light had flooded everywhere. It was ethereal, luminescent, burning through the corridor like the warm fire of the summer's sun. Cherie gazed up, soaking in the beauty of the magic of the dawn.
"The roofbox is aligned with the winter solstice sunrise," Tecna realized. "Every year on the morning of the winter solstice, a shaft of light pierces straight through the cave and into this chamber. My word, this is magnificent!"
A new dawn has come, Cherie thought. Now the darkest time of the year was over – winter would soon give way to spring, and new life would form. She gazed at Roxy, who stared up at the light with amazement.
"Magic," she breathed. "You guys – this is magic. The stories of the Tuatha dé Danann and the fay – they're real! It's incredible!"
"That's the word," Musa smiled. "This is the most rad thing I've ever seen. The best way to celebrate defeating the Wizards."
"Are you sure?" Roxy smiled coyly. "'Cause I know just the place to go"…
The Hill of Tara was majestic as they stood there, celebrating the Midwinter. The horses frolicked around the stones in excitement, and Artu barked in delight. Flora had decorated the trees with the traditional holly wreaths of Yule, their dark green leaves and plump red berries contrasting beautifully. Stella had placed candles on the trees, which all had icicles on them due to the freezing rain. In the glow of the candles, they glittered beautifully, a true winter's miracle.
Layla and the Pixies had set up the rest of the decorations, and by that evening, the Hill of Tara was a site fit for a queen and her entire court. Somehow without getting caught, Tecna and Roxy had bought plenty of food, which Bloom and Baston used to make an incredible Yule feast.
There was Sun King soup, a soup made out of vegetable broth, potatoes, turnips, and parsnips, with cabbage chopped on its surface. Bloom had baked a mushroom pie in place of the roast boar, which they all ate happily. No meat – Roxy had drawn the line on that, though Stella complained they were only eating vegetables. There were also spiced crab-apples, and platters of dried fruits and nuts. Along with their feast, they drank wassail, a type of apple-cider that was meant for ceremony.
For dessert there was Irish apple-and-walnut cake, plum pudding and toffee pudding (both of which were actually cakes made from dried fruits and toffee, respectively), and a chocolate Yule log cake. They'd all eaten eagerly, relishing their defeat of the Wizards and Roxy's ascension to magic. Roxy had felt happy during all that time, delighted at the simple times she was spending with them.
She only wished her father was there. She wished that he would love her, that he would care for her. At times, she still felt awkward around the Winx, even though they'd helped her greatly. But the company of Artu, Cherie, and Aonbharr was enough to delight her. She spent much of the night gazing up at the stars and the half-moon, all of which were visible that night, feeling the delight of Nature shine over her.
As Roxy sat in front of the Stone of Kingship, with Aonbharr next to her, she heard footsteps from behind. Musa was walking up to her, with Cherie on her shoulder and the Black Circle in her hands. She stopped in front of Roxy.
"This is yours," she said. "It was created by the fay, and since you're the Last Fairy on Earth, I figured it belongs to you."
Roxy stared at the Circle, gazing at its shining black depths. She stood up and climbed onto Aonbharr's back, touching the surface of the Stone. The others stopped what they were doing and gathered behind Musa, watching, as Cherie picked the Circle out of Musa's hands. She placed it on Roxy's head.
The Circle gleamed coolly against her pink hair, fitting the circumference of her head like a crown. Standing there with Aonbharr as she'd done all those years ago, with the Stone shining proudly behind her, she felt like a Queen herself.
She brushed the Stone's surface, now finally understanding the power that coursed through its veins. Magic. Although the Tuatha dé Danann had disappeared centuries ago, their magic still existed, coursing through this ancient land. And it was up to her to restore it. She sighed, not looking forward to the journey ahead.
That night, they all collapsed on the Hill, their sleeping-bags snuggling them against the cold. Roxy lay down, staring once up at the North Star, and then at the Black Circle.
"This is it," she whispered. "I am a fairy." She knew, after everything that had happened, that there was no going back now.
End of Part I.
