New Characters:
Rafe: Felicity's Older Brother
Rangda: Witch of Demonic Beasts
Cassie: A 12 year old little girl that Ulrik takes care of
~~~~Previously~~~~
Bloom, Stella, and Tecna were defeated and captured by the Collectors along with Sky and Brandon. Rave broke free from his bindings and attacked the Scoutix. After a long battle, Rave managed to take off with Alex's ice magic. Krista also managed to show up, taking down both Daniel and Tecna. Ulrik appeared before Alex and Gale, providing some information about Rave's condition. Meanwhile in the Shadow Lair, the essences and wings of the last Winx fairies were stolen. After some time in the dungeons, Ulrik decided to release the guys and lend a hand. Over at Lake Roccaluce, Zane ran into a mysterious witch that brought out his true self. ~~~~
Magix City
Zane appeared in the city and started destroying buildings. People screamed and ran through the streets, trying to find a safe place to go. The streets themselves were filled with dust and debris. Anything left from the destroyed buildings were set on fire. He released a loud roar and continued on the path of destruction.
Alfea
Ulrik stepped through the gateway with Helia, Brandon and Sky. "It's a little strange being here."
"I had a feeling that you would be back here Ulrik." Gale said, walking up to him.
"How's Alex doing?" Ulrik asked.
"He's completely out of it." Gale said.
Rosella ran over to Alex and held him close. "I've got you. Stay strong Alex."
"We've all been hit pretty hard." Catarina said, walking up next to Gale.
Daniel opened his eyes and stood up. "Things did not go as planned."
"Are you alright Daniel?" Colton asked.
Daniel nodded, focusing his attention on Colton. "I'll be fine."
"Healing Rain." Felicity held Lyon in her lap and gently brushed the hair out of his face. 'That should make everyone feel back at full strength. Perhaps there is a chance that he can change.'
"Everyone is so exhausted." Carmen said. "We couldn't handle another attack."
Rexx kissed Carmen and smiled. "Everyone will be fine Carmen. They just need to rest up."
"I wonder where Rachel is." Abigail said.
Colton joined Abigail and looked around. "Zane is missing as well."
"Do you think something bad happened to them?" Carmen asked.
"Zane and Rachel can take care of themselves." Gale said. "Zane probably went off to be alone. He's always been like that. I'd say that Rachel went after him."
Catarina nodded and released a small sigh. "They still shouldn't go off on their own. The Collectors are still out there and they can strike from anywhere. No offense Ulrik." Before anyone could respond, she held her head in pain.
"What's wrong Catarina?" Gale asked, holding her.
"Something's wrong." Catarina said. "It's coming from the city. There's been a shift in it's aura. I can't tell what it is."
Rexx pulled out his phone and pulled up the city. "We got big trouble."
"What is that thing?" Brandon asked.
"It's a demonic beast." Ulrik said. "The one who summoned it must be pretty powerful. These beasts are difficult to control and they are quite powerful."
Daniel joined the others and looked towards the city. "Let's get going then. We can't just stand by and do nothing."
"You're also outmatched." Ulrik said.
Catarina started to breathe heavily, curling into Gale's chest. "He's right. We wouldn't stand a chance. Rachel and Zane are missing. On top of that, Alex and Lyon will be out of it for a while."
"You've given up without even trying." Rosella said. "Innocent people are getting hurt. The least we can do is lead it out of the city."
Gale rubbed Catarina's head and nodded. "Let's go. That thing isn't going to stop unless we do something about it."
"You all are crazy." Ulrik said. "You're going to get yourselves killed going after that demon. Only a witch would know what to do. Seeing as Cloud Tower is frozen over, you're short one witch."
Carmen smiled and spun around. "Then we'll just have to defrost it."
"Do you have any idea how much heat it would take to unfreeze everything?" Ulrik asked. "Besides, it would take hours to get rid of all the ice."
"Not if you're a volcano fairy." Carmen said, with a big grin on her face.
Ulrik sighed and opened up a gateway, pulling Draegan through it. "You're going to need more fire power than that."
"What the hell?" Draegan asked. "Why did you bring me here Ulrik?"
"In order to help thaw out Cloud Tower." Ulrik said.
Draegan sulked a little, keeping his eyes on Ulrik. "Just because your my friend Ulrik, doesn't mean that I'm going to help them."
"You'll help Draegan." Ulrik said. "It would really get on Neva's nerves if you melted her ice. Unless you'd rather spend your time in a dungeon cell."
Draegan glared a little and crossed his arms. "I'm still not going to help."
"If you help, you can avoid being locked away for a long time." Sky said.
Draegan sighed and uncrossed his arms. "Fine. I'll help out just this once."
"I'm going too." Rexx said. "Three fire users are better than two."
Catarina winced and closed her eyes. "We need to hurry."
"Just be careful you three." Gale said. "And try not to set anyone on fire."
Draegan sighed and opened up a gateway to Cloud Tower. "Let's just get this over with. I really don't want to be here." He then stepped through the gateway with Carmen and Rexx.
"Let's go." Catarina said. "That thing isn't going to wait on us forever."
"Are you sure you're up for this?" Gale asked.
"I'll be fine." Catarina said.
Ulrik opened up a gateway to the city and looked to everyone. "Don't let your guard down even for a second. We don't know what this thing can do." With that, everyone else stepped through the gateway.
Cloud Tower
"Neva really did a number on this place." Draegan said, stepping through the gateway with Rexx and Carmen.
Rexx looked around at the ice and sulked a little. "We had better hurry. It's not going to melt itself."
"Charmix!" Carmen transformed and hovered in the air. "I'll take care of things from up here. Lava Beam!"
"Phoenix Fire!"
"Inferno Chakram! Blazing Heat!"
The ice slowly began to melt, revealing the entrance into the school. They continued to melt the ice, until it was completely. Once it was gone, they headed inside to Griffin's office.
"She even froze miss Griffin." Carmen said.
Rexx nodded and stared out the window. "It's time to give this place back to the witches."
"Allow me." Draegan said. "Phoenix Fire!"
The ice around miss Griffin completely melted and set her free. "It's about time."
Carmen smiled and hugged Rexx. "We did it."
"You're still here." Griffin said. "What do you want?"
Carmen pulled away from Rexx and looked to Griffin. "We need information about demonic beasts. There's one attacking the city."
"A demonic beast is loose in Magix." Griffin said. "I know of only one witch that would summon such a creature. It can only be Rangda's work. Every demonic beast has a special weakness. There is not a single way to defeat them all. Rangda's are not your normal beasts. Finding their weakness would be nearly impossible."
Carmen looked down a little and held Rexx's hand. "There has to be some way to stop it."
Griffin nodded and pulled out an amulet. "This will help slow the beast down. You'll have to find its weakness yourself." She then handed the amulet to Carmen. "The effects won't last long, so I suggest you don't waste time."
Draegan opened up another gateway to the city. "Let's go take this thing out." He smirked a little as they headed through the gateway.
Magix
"How do we find this thing?" Felicity asked.
"By following the path of destruction." Gale said.
Zane roared, destroying a building with his tail. He then took notice to the Scoutix and towards them.
"Charmix!" The Scoutix transformed and hovered in the air.
"We have to hit this thing with everything we got." Catarina said. "Aura Blast!"
"Unicorn Rush!"
"Floral Cage!"
"Orb of Light!"
Zane growled, creating a flame shield around himself. He then whipped his tail around and knocked the fairies into buildings.
"That hurt." Felicity said.
"Neptune Vortex!"
"Aero Wheel!"
Zane slowed down and prepared to pounce. His tail whipped around in the air and struck the ground, knocking the guys off their feet.
"We can't even get close to this thing." Brandon said.
"Phoenix Fire Cage!"
"Lava Beam!"
Zane growled and started ramming the cage.
"You all don't look like you're doing too good." Rexx said.
The girls regained their strength and regrouped with the others, keeping their focus on the beast before them.
"We could really use Rachel right about now." Rosella said.
Draegan winced and dropped to the ground. "This thing shouldn't be able to move right now. The cage won't hold for much longer."
"We've never fought anything like this before." Gale said.
"Did you find anything out at Cloud Tower Carmen?" Catarina asked.
"Not really." Carmen said. "Griffin did give us this amulet. It's supposed to slow down the creature."
Zane roared and broke free from the cage, charging at the group. His tail then stabbed the ground in an attempt to impale them. Carmen held out the amulet, which seemed to hold him at a standstill. He growled and showed off his fangs.
"It's working." Rosella said.
Carmen winced and fell to her knees. "This is getting hard to control."
"Let's hit this thing with a convergence." Catarina said.
"Do you really think that it will work this time?" Felicity asked.
"We can do this." Abigail said. "We just have to work together."
Felicity smiled and nodded. "Let's show thing who it's messing with."
"Don't forget about me." Daniel said. "We're all friends."
"Magic Scoutix! Convergence!"
Zane roared and fell to ground, barely able to move. He breathed heavily, wrapping his tail around himself.
"We did it." Carmen said. "Too bad Rachel wasn't here for it."
"Paralysis." Ulrik sighed and looked around. "That should hold it for a bit."
"What do we do now?" Colton asked.
"Get this thing out of the city." Gale said.
Laughter began to ring throughout the city as a cloud of red smoke appeared in front of Zane. "You won't be taking my pet anywhere." The smoke started to clear, revealing the figure of woman. She had bright red hair reaching just below her shoulder and yellow eyes. Her outfit consisted of a red single sleeve crop top, a red skirt reaching just below her knees, dark red ankle boots, and a black arm band.
"Who are you?" Rosella asked.
"You must be Rangda." Carmen said.
Rangda laughed, releasing the paralysis spell upon Zane. "You know who I am. It's not a good idea to mess with my pets."
Zane stood up, staying behind his mistress. He growled a little, ready to strike at command.
"You and that beast are going down." Felicity said.
Rangda turned to Felicity and smirked. "You won't do that. Not if you want to see that pathetic gem fairy again."
"What did you do to Rachel?" Carmen asked, glaring at the witch.
"I'm sure you'd love to know that." Rangda said. "Why not ask your aura friend? I know you can sense it fairy."
Catarina winced and fell to her knees. "I'm not sure how, but Rachel is near. Her aura is very faint though."
"You've spent all this time trying to fight my pet, that you haven't realized what you've really been doing." Rangda said.
"What are you talking about?" Carmen asked.
Rangda smirked and scratched Zane's head. "Don't you recognize him? His appearance may have changed, but his aura is still the same."
"It can't be." Catarina said. "That's not possible."
"What's wrong Catarina?" Gale asked.
"That creature is Zane." Catarina said.
"Are you sure?" Carmen asked.
Catarina nodded and slowly stood up, curling into Gale. "I'm sure of it. His aura is all around that thing. She must have cursed him."
"You just don't get it." Rangda said. "This is the real Zane. Or rather, a copy of him."
"What do you mean?" Abigail asked.
"It's quite simple actually." Rangda said. "The true Zane has been dead for a while now. All I did was create my pet to take on his likeness."
"Where's Rachel?" Felicity asked, glaring a little.
"Sealed away." Rangda said. "You've been fighting your own friends. And don't even think about trying to save them. Zane is under my complete control. As for your friend, she's sealed within her own special gem. You won't be getting to it either. It's sealed away within Zane's eye. You can't save Rachel without hurting him."
"What should we do?" Rosella asked.
"Maybe we can get through to Zane." Daniel said. "If we can manage to do that, we can figure out a way to save Rachel."
Rangda laughed, turning her attention back to the group. "He doesn't even know who you are. Zane is nothing more than a mindless beast, loyal to his mistress."
"Zane." Daniel said.
Zane growled, focusing his attention on Daniel.
"Keep that witch busy." Daniel said. "Let me deal with Zane."
"Are you sure you want to do this Daniel?" Gale asked.
Daniel glanced at Gale and nodded. "I have to try. Just keep her occupied."
"Be careful." Gale said.
Rangda smirked as she started to glow bright red. "You have no idea who you are messing with. Leaving things up to some fairy boy. How pathetic. Do you want to know why there are so few male fairies?" She laughed and flew up into the air. "My pets wiped most of them out. You're the special one Danny boy. I have my doubts, but Asher seems to think otherwise. He actually believes that you're part of prophecy or something. I must say that I am quite jealous that he's keeping all that essence to himself."
"What are you saying witch?" Daniel asked.
"You haven't figured it out." Rangda said. "He's the one behind the attacks. I guess you don't know him at all."
Daniel stood in shock before falling to his knees. "No. It can't be. He wouldn't do that."
"Daniel." Catarina said. "You have to focus. She's just trying to get in your head."
'Focus. Your friends need you.' Daniel thought. 'I have to try and reach Zane.' He turned his focus to the creature and walked closer. "Zane."
"Rip him to shreds my pet." Rangda said.
"Light Arrow!"
Rangda glared and winced in a little. "Not bad fairy, but that will be the only hit you'll get."
"Aura Blast!"
"Magma Vortex!"
"Rose Pheromone!"
Zane growled and swiped at Daniel, missing him by only a few inches.
"I know you're in there Zane." Daniel said. "We're friends. You have to remember."
Rangda laughed and blocked the attacks. "You don't have what it takes to defeat me." She smirked and fire off multiple blasts of red energy.
Zane roared and knocked Daniel into a nearby building. He then pounced and pinned Daniel to the ground.
Daniel winced, keeping his focus on Zane. "This isn't you. Don't let this witch tell you who you are. You're not a monster. Think of your friends. Rachel needs you."
The girls fell to the ground, struggling to move.
"We have to do another convergence." Abigail said.
Felicity winced in pain and slowly got up on her knees. "We're all too tired. I can use my healing magic, but it won't be enough to fully heal everyone."
At that moment, a cloaked figure appeared in front of the girls. "I don't normally fight girls, but I'll make an exception for you witch."
Rangda glared at the newcomer and prepared another attack. "Back again. You've been a thorn in my side for too long." She smirked and fired off an orb of energy at the figure.
"You're here." Felicity said, smiling a little.
The newcomer smirked and blocked the attacked. "It's going to take more than. Star Shower!"
"Who is that?" Catarina asked.
"A friend." Felicity said.
Rangda growled a little and fired multiple orbs of energy. "I won't allow you to interfere any longer."
"Star Blade!" He quickly destroyed the orbs and stood ready for the next attack. "I can keep this up all day Rangda. I suggest you leave."
Zane growled as his breath blew Daniel's hair. He started to calm down a little before stepping over beside him.
"That's it Zane." Daniel said. "You can fight this. We're all here for you."
Rangda continued to glare before disappearing in a cloud of smoke. 'One of these days I will get rid of him.'
The newcomer pulled off cloak and smiled at Felicity. "It's been a long time Filly."
"Rafe." Felicity said, standing up and hugging him. "I thought you were dead."
All of sudden, a blinding light engulfed Zane. When the light faded, the creature was gone. "Daniel."
"Welcome back Zane." Daniel said, smiling a little.
Zane stood up and turned away from Daniel. "Yeah. I should go."
"Maybe now everyone can actually relax." Brandon said.
Daniel stood up, keeping his gaze on Zane. "You don't have to leave."
"Things are just getting worse." Sky said. "And this time, the Winx aren't here to help."
The girls reverted back to their casual forms and slowly stood up.
"That didn't work out very well." Rosella said.
"Who is this Felicity?" Abigail asked, walking up beside her.
"My name is Rafe." Rafe said. "I'm Filly's older brother."
Draegan sighed and opened up a gateway. "My work is done here. I should get back before someone notices I'm missing."
"Be careful Draegan." Ulrik said.
Draegan nodded and stepped through the gateway. 'I have to figure out where Ulrik's little friend is. And not get caught by Shadow.'
Gale helped Catarina to her feet and hugged her. "I'm glad that you're alright."
Catarina smiled and closed her eyes. "Poor Zane. We have to figure out how to help him."
"You have a brother." Carmen said, running up to Felicity. "That is so awesome."
"Are you alright Zane?" Helia asked.
"I can't be around anyone." Zane said. "Rachel is trapped because of me. I never wanted to hurt anyone."
Daniel looked down a little and placed a hand on Zane's shoulder. "It wasn't your fault. We'll find a way to help Rachel. It would be better if you stayed with a group of people."
"I know that Daniel." Zane said. "Everything I know isn't even real. The memories I have before meeting all of you, are not even my own. I never even had a real childhood. I'm a monster."
Rosella walked up to Zane and smiled. "You're not a monster. Rachel wouldn't see things that way. And if she were here, she'd smack you upset the head for even thinking like that."
"Yeah." Zane said. "She's not here though and I'm a danger to everyone."
Catarina walked up to Zane, trying to figure out some way to help him. "Zane. Rachel isn't gone. She's still alive. Do you really think that she would want you to runaway? The only way to help her is by working together."
Rafe smiled and held Felicity close. "It's good to see you too Filly. I'm sorry for making you think I was dead."
"You don't have to be the monster that witch made you into." Helia said.
Zane looked down and gripped his arm. "You all would still trust me after what I've done here."
"Well duh." Carmen said. "We're all friends here. Rachel is counting on all of us."
Zane smiled a little and nodded."Yeah. I want to do everything I can to save her."
"It's not just the Collectors we need to worry about now." Ulrik said. "Rangda is a real threat and we don't have the power to defeat either of them."
Rafe walked up to the others with Felicity by his side. "You'll just have to get stronger."
"We should try to relax for a bit." Gale said. "It's been a long day and we won't be able to do much of anything in our weakened state."
With that, they all headed back to Alfea.
Alfea
Rosella and Felicity made their way to the infirmary, wanting to check in on Alex and Lyon.
"They're still out of it." Rosella said.
Felicity sighed and sat down in a nearby chair. "Yeah. I never expected Lyon to protect me."
"There's a lot more to him than we realize." Rosella said. "Perhaps you have started to get through to him. It doesn't mean that he's going to start being nice."
Felicity smiled and nodded. "There is good within him. I want to believe that he can be nice."
Shadow Lair
Shadow sat upon his throne, having just watched the events in the city. 'Ulrik is now a traitor. And here I thought he could be trusted. No matter. I will deal with him in time.' "Draegan."
Draegan appeared in front of Shadow and bowed. "Yes master."
"How does it feel to be a traitor?" Shadow asked.
"I don't know what you mean master." Draegan said. 'Damn. He's figured me out. And if he's figured me out, then he also knows about Ulrik.'
Shadow glared a little and shadows wrapped around Draegan. "Don't play games with me. I've been watching. Did you forget about that? You've been helping him. Did you really think that I wouldn't notice?"
Krista watched from the shadows and smiled. 'This is what every traitor deserves.'
Draegan winced, keeping his gaze on the floor. "Forgive me."
"I don't take well to traitors Draegan." Shadow said. "Luckily for you, you're still useful to me. Krista."
Krista stepped out of the shadows and bowed. "What do you wish of me?"
"You two are coming with me." Shadow said, surrounding them all in shadows and disappearing.
Cave
Shadow, Draegan and Krista appeared in a cave right outside the castle. They came to a lone cage hanging down from the ceiling. Inside the cage was a young girl with light blonde hair, reaching just below her shoulders with light green eyes. Her outfit consisted of a blue short sleeve shirt, light blue capris, and blue flats.
"Who is this?" Krista asked.
"The one that controls Ulrik." Shadow said. "This girl is quite precious to him. He'll do anything to keep her safe."
'She must be the friend he was talking about.' Draegan thought. 'She's just a child.'
Shadow turned to Draegan and smirked. "I did say that you were still useful to me. You're going to lure in Ulrik. Krista. He's all yours. And try not to kill him." He then walked over and leaned up against the cave wall.
"With pleasure." Krista said, focusing her attention on Draegan. "Shadow Boomerangs!"
Draegan cried out in pain and dropped to his knees. 'I have to do something fast.'
"I'm just getting started Draegan." Krista said. "Shadow Boomerang Spear!"
Draegan winced and fell to the ground. 'I have to get out of here. I could use my flames as a distraction.' "Phoenix Fire!"
"Ice Bullets!"
Draegan cried out in pain as he was knocked into the cave wall. 'Neva.'
"It's about time Neva." Shadow said.
Neva walked into the light, keeping her gaze on Draegan. "As if I would miss out on this. Let's see just how much you can handle fire breath. Frost Arrow!"
"Shadow Boomerang Blast!"
Draegan struggled to move as his vision began to fade. 'I can't let it end like this.' Using the last of his strength, he ran over and grabbed on to the cage. "You'll just have to find out some other time frosty." He then disappeared with the cage in a burst of flames.
"You won't get away Draegan." Neva said.
Shadow smirked and stopped Neva from leaving. "Let him go. Ulrik will get the point."
"Draegan also took off with the girl." Krista said.
Shadow laughed a little and closed his eyes. "Exactly. That girl is quite ill. And I have the only cure. Ulrik will have no choice but to come back."
'I just need to wait until Shadow has no power left.' Neva thought. 'And then I will be the one in charge. I'll show him what true power is.'
Alfea
Daniel sat on a bench and stared up at the sky. 'Asher can't be behind the attacks. He wouldn't do something like this. That witch had to be lying. And what if she's right? What if is he is behind everything? No. I can't accept that. He's my brother.'
"You sure like to spend time thinking." Helia said, sitting down beside him.
Daniel glanced over and sighed a little. "Thinking makes things a lot easier. It's almost like I don't know anything right now." He laughed a little and turned his attention back to the sky. "Our last conversation didn't go very well."
"You can't always predict what's going to happen." Helia said. "You can't be blamed for what happened Daniel. None of this was your fault."
Daniel looked up a little and nodded. "I've gotten over blaming myself. There is a lot more at stake now."
"Things are more difficult now, but that doesn't mean that all hope is lost." Helia said.
Daniel leaned back and stared at the sky once more. "Is there really a way to win this?"
"There is." Ulrik said while reading a book. "Just not the way you are now."
"How long have you been there Ulrik?" Daniel asked.
"The entire time." Ulrik said, looking up from his book. "I'm a very quiet person. You do have to get more power. The battle with Rangda proved that."
"How are we supposed to get more power?" Carmen asked, popping up out of nowhere behind Daniel.
Daniel jumped a little and sighed. "Have you been there this entire time?"
Carmen smiled and did a back flip. "Not the entire time. I just got here. I've never seen anyone jump like you just did."
"Someone sure is full of energy." Ulrik said.
Carmen laughed and laid back on the grass. "I'm just a really active person."
Before anyone could say another word, a pillar of flames appeared. The flames faded to reveal Draegan and the girl. "We made it." He winced in pain and fell unconscious.
"Draegan?!" Ulrik called out, running over to him. "He's hurt pretty bad." 'You did it my friend. You managed to save her. I never should have dragged him into this.'
"What could have happened to him?" Catarina asked.
"Shadow knows we betrayed him." Ulrik said.
"What about the girl?" Catarina asked. "Who is she?"
Ulrik sighed and looked over at the girl. "She's a friend of mine. Well, I've been taking care of her. She doesn't have a family."
"She was used against you." Catarina said.
Ulrik nodded and gently picked her up. "We should get them to the infirmary."
Gale and Colton helped get Draegan to a bed and carefully laid him down.
Ulrik laid the little girl on a bed and covered her up. "Something's wrong with her."
Felicity looked to the girl and walked over to her. "She seems to be suffering from some sort of illness."
"They both got hurt because of me." Ulrik said.
Felicity looked down a little and placed a hand on Ulrik's shoulder. "It's not your fault. Draegan chose to help you. You had no idea that this little girl would be used against you like this."
"Cassie." Ulrik said. "Her name is Cassie. Shadow would have the cure for this. I have to go back."
Felicity pulled her hand away and took a step back. "If you go back, they will kill you."
"I don't have a choice." Ulrik said. "It's the only way to help Cassie." Without waiting for a response, he walked back outside.
Daniel took notice to Ulrik and walked over to him. "Are you alright?"
Ulrik looked down and shook his head. "I'm going back Daniel. Don't try to stop me. I have to save Cassie."
"I'm not going to stop you." Daniel said. "Tell me one thing before you go."
"What is it?" Ulrik asked.
Daniel gripped his arm, looking down a little. "Is it true? Is what that witch said true?"
"Yes." Ulrik said, sighing a little. "Your brother is the one behind the attacks. I'm sorry."
Daniel turned away and gripped his arm even more. "I understand. Be careful. You have to come back."
Ulrik nodded and opened up a gateway. "I'll be back in no time." With that, he walked through the gateway. 'This isn't going to end well.'
Daniel sighed and walked over to a nearby tree, sitting up against it. "I wish I knew why he was doing all of this."
"You don't look too good." Zane said, sitting down across from Daniel.
Daniel glanced up at Zane before returning his gaze to the ground. "Yeah."
"Do you want to talk about it?" Zane asked.
"My brother is the one hurting people." Daniel said. "I just...don't understand why. What would drive him to do these horrible things?"
Zane leaned back against the tree and released a small sigh. "At least you're not a demon. There's still a chance that there's still good in him."
"You're not a monster." Daniel said. "You can choose to be something else."
Zane looked down and held his arm. "Not while Rangda is around. What if the next time I turn into a raging, I end up hurting someone? I could have killed you Daniel."
"Think about Rachel." Daniel said. "I'm sure that she doesn't see you as some sort of monster. You mean so much to her and nothing will change that. We'll defeat that witch and free you both."
Zane sighed and nodded. "I hope you're right."
Shadow Lair
Ulrik appeared in the throne and walked up to Shadow. "Where is it Shadow?"
Shadow smirked, keeping his gaze on Ulrik. "If it isn't the traitor himself. What is it that you are looking for?"
"You know exactly what I'm after." Ulrik said, glaring a little.
Shadow laughed and held up a small vial. "You've got quite the backbone Ulrik. You want the cure for that girl. Just come and take it." He then set it down on a small pillar.
"Do you really think I'm going to fall for that?" Ulrik asked. "I won't back down from you ever again."
Shadow stood up and smirked a little. "I expect nothing less from you. Anyone would be lucky to have you on their side. Although, I did expect more loyalty from you. It's a shame that your new friends won't get to see you again. "
"Frost Arrow!"
"Earth Barrier!" Ulrik blocked the attack and awaited for the next one. "You're not going to get me that easily."
"Shadow Bind!"
Ulrik winced a little and struggled to get free. "Cheap trick Krista."
"I thought that you would put up more of a fight than this." Shadow said. "Dark Fire Whip!"
Ulrik cried out in pain, keeping his gaze on the floor. 'I won't be making it back at this rate. No. I have to break free. Cassie is counting on me. I made a promise to return.'
"Are you ready to die?" Shadow asked.
Ulrik smirked and looked up at Shadow. "I'm not going to die here. Terra Dust!" He then quickly broke free and grabbed the vial. "You shouldn't underestimate me."
"Dark Fire Spiral!"
Ulrik cried out in pain and fell to his knees. 'I need to open up a gateway.'
"Ice Bullets!" Neva laughed as Ulrik fell to the floor. "Don't even think about opening a gateway."
'I feel so weak.' Ulrik thought. 'I'm sorry my friends.'
"This is the end for you." Shadow said. "Dark Fire!"
As the flames were about to hit Ulrik, a bright light appeared and protected him. 'Now's your chance. Get out of here Ulrik.'
Ulrik heard the female voice and winced. 'Who are you?'
'It doesn't matter who I am. You have the cure for Cassie. He didn't lie about that. My light will protect you long enough to escape. It has also given you enough strength to create a gateway.'
'How can I trust you?' Ulrik thought. 'Please. Tell me who you are.'
'There isn't time. I will explain everything to you later on.'
Ulrik sighed and opened up a gateway, quickly escaping through it. 'I wonder who that was. Why did she save me?'
"What happened?" Neva asked, a little annoyed.
"She's still hanging around." Shadow said. "The light saved him. I wonder why."
Rave smirked, leaning up against a wall. "He won't be fighting again anytime soon."
"You didn't even do anything." Krista said, glaring at Rave.
Rave chuckled and stepped away from the wall. "You all had things handled. If it wasn't for that light, Ulrik would be dead."
Alfea
Ulrik stepped through the gateway and made his way back to Cassie. "I've got you Cassie." He smiled and gently poured the liquid down her throat. "I'll see you in a bit." With that, he fell unconscious.
"He's really weak." Rosella said. "They must have attacked him."
Alex winced a little and opened his eyes. "Rosella."
Rosella smiled, turning her attention to Alex. "It's great to see that you're awake. How are you feeling Alex?"
"A lot better." Alex said. "What did I miss?"
Rosella chuckled a little and held his hand. "It's a long story. We've been through a few battles. And we have a new enemy to worry about. This witch, Rangda, turned Zane into a demon. Apparently, he was never human to begin with. Not to mention that Rachel is sealed within a gem in his eye."
"That is a lot." Alex said. "I'm sorry that I wasn't around."
Rosella gently kissed his forehead and gripped his hand a little tighter. "It's alright. There's nothing that you could have done."
Felicity glanced over at Rosella and Alex, smiling a little. 'Please wake up soon Lyon.' It wasn't long after that she found herself drifting off to sleep.
"You should get some rest Daniel." Zane said.
Daniel nodded and drifted off to sleep. 'I hope that Zane will be alright. He's been through so much lately.'
Zane sighed a little and looked up at the sky. 'Rachel. Please be alright. I need you.'
~~~~Rachel's Memory: Age 16~~~~
"It's finished." Rachel said, holding up a necklace made of jewels. She then took off running over to her mother.
"It's beautiful sweetheart."
Rachel smiled and made some gems swirl around in her hand. "I've been practicing."
"You'll have it down in no time."
At that moment, one of the gems flew off and struck her mother in the chest. "Mother?!"
~~~~End of Memory~~~~
'You can't escape from me my pet.' Rangda thought. 'I will come for you.'
Zane quickly looked around in fear. "I'm only hearing things."
Moira held Zaven close and sighed a little. 'I wish I could been there to help you Zaven. Perhaps one day your family will be whole again.'
Zaven opened his eyes and looked around. "Moira. What happened? Where's Rave?"
"I'm not sure." Moira said. "Rave is gone."
Zaven sat up and looked down a little. "I was afraid of that. He's completely taken over by shadows."
"Is there a way to save him?" Moira asked.
"I'm not sure." Zaven said. "I doubt anyone can get through to him. Unless you know how to break the curse."
Lyon slowly opened his eyes and glanced at Felicity. 'Why is she here? And why did I save her? Do I really have feelings for her? No. That can't be it. Or is it? I don't know anymore.'
"She's been by your side this entire time." Abigail said.
"Am I supposed to care?" Lyon asked.
"Felicity likes you." Abigail said. "You care for her. That's why you protected her. You wouldn't have done that if you didn't care."
Lyon focused his attention on Felicity, trying to ignore Abigail. "You don't know anything about me."
"I don't think you're as bad as you want people to think." Abigail said. "You may not want to admit it, but you do care about people."
Felicity opened her eyes and smiled at Lyon. "I'm glad you're alright."
"Whatever." Lyon said. "I don't need you to care about me."
"What happened to Rave?" Alex asked.
"He's already long gone." Rosella said.
Alex looked down and gripped his arm. "I see. I just wish I knew how to save him."
"You'll figure it out Alex." Rosella said, smiling a little.
Catarina sat out in the quad and stared up at the sky. 'How are we supposed to get stronger?'
"What are you thinking about Catarina?" Gale asked, sitting down beside her.
"I'm trying to figure out a way to get stronger." Catarina said. "There has to be a way that we get more power quickly."
Gale nodded and pulled her close. "We'll figure this all out."
"We can't even rest." Catarina said. "We have no idea of knowing when the next attack will happen. New enemies keep popping up."
Gale sighed and gently kissed her cheek. "We've also managed to gain more friends."
"They have both come close to death." Catarina said. "I'm surprised that they are still alive. I mean, it's a miracle that they are still here."
Gale nodded and looked up at the sky. "Yeah. They can handle themselves."
Cassie opened her eyes and looked around. "Where am I?"
"You're at Alfea sweetie." Abigail said smiling.
"Where's Ulrik?" Cassie asked. "He promised to be here."
"He's resting over there." Abigail said, looking over at Ulrik.
Cassie smiled, getting up and walking over to Ulrik. "He's hurt."
"Don't worry Cassie." Abigail said. "He will be just fine. Ulrik risked a lot to save you."
Ulrik opened his eyes and smiled upon seeing Cassie. "Cassie. It's good to see you. I see that you've already met Abigail."
Cassie smiled and hugged Ulrik. "I missed you Ulrik."
"I said that I would always come back." Ulrik said.
Zane winced in pain and held his head. 'Don't do this to me now.' He slowly started to turn, using all of his strength to resist.
Daniel awoke and quickly moved over beside Zane. "Zane. What's wrong?"
"Get back!" Zane called out, pushing Daniel back. "I don't know how long I can fight it. Get out of here."
Daniel shook his head and moved back over beside him. "I'm not going to leave you Zane. Think of Rachel and who you really are. Don't let that witch tell you who you are. You can do this."
Zane nodded and returned to normal. "Thank you Daniel. What would I ever do without you? You're a great friend."
"So are you." Daniel said, placing a hand on his shoulder.
Shadow Lair
'I'm getting tired of waiting around for Shadow's orders.' Neva thought. 'Time to take matters into my own hands. He doesn't deserve to call himself the leader.' She then disappeared within a block of ice.
'What could Neva be up to?' Krista thought.
Shadow stared out his bedroom window, leaning up against the wall. 'Why did she have to interfere? What makes Ulrik so special that she would protect him?'
"What could you possibly be thinking about?" Rangda asked.
"That's none of your concern." Shadow said. "Your pet is fighting your control."
Rangda chuckled and rubbed his face. "He can't resist me forever. Don't you worry about him."
"He will be a problem if keeps this up." Shadow said.
Rangda smirked and pulled him close to her. "You worry too much. Why don't you just relax for a while? Worried is not a good look for you. Let me deal with Zane."
Alfea
Neva appeared behind Daniel and smirked. 'You're mine.' "Snow Prison!"
Daniel winced and looked back at Neva as he started to freeze. "What's happening to me?"
"My snow prison freezes anyone unlucky enough to be caught inside." Neva said.
"Lightning Strike!" Zane struck the cage in an attempt to release Daniel, only to fail.
Neva laughed and turned to Zane. "It's going to take more than that sweetheart."
"Get out of here Zane." Daniel said as his chest started to freeze.
Zane glared at Neva and growled a little. "Let him go. Daniel. I'm not leaving you."
"That's not going to happen." Neva said, moving closer to Zane. "You don't have the power to stop me."
"Thunder Whip!"
"Just go Zane." Daniel said, wincing a little. "I'll be fine."
Zane shook his head and awaited for Neva's next attack. "I can't just stand by and do nothing."
Neva laughed and rubbed Zane's face. "You're kind of cute. It's a shame that you fell for a fairy." She then smirked and kissed him. "Icy Touch!"
Zane stood in shock and winced a little. "What did you do to me?"
"Can you feel the cold?" Neva asked. "My icy touch can freeze anyone and anything I choose. I did enjoy the kiss. Now freeze."
Zane winced once more as he started to freeze. "Damn you."
"Zane?!" Daniel cried out as his neck froze over.
Neva grinned and turned her attention to Daniel. "A weakling like you can't save anyone."
"Fire Stars!"
Neva glared as Daniel and Zane were freed from the ice. "You'll pay for that. Ice Bullets."
Rafe cried out in pain and fell to his knees. "You won't get away with that witch."
"Daniel." Zane said, helping him up. "Are you alright?"
Daniel nodded and shivered a little. "I'm fine. Just a little cold."
"Explosion!"
Rafe cried out in pain and fell to the ground. 'I can't move. Am I still weak from fighting Rangda?'
"Charmix! Daniel. Fairy of the Deep Oceans."
"Transform all you want fairy boy." Neva said. "It won't be enough to stop me. Ice Bullets!"
"Aqua Shield!"
"Frost Arrow!"
"Thunder Strike!"
Neva cried out in pain and growled a little. "I'm not finished yet. Explosion!"
Zane winced as he knocked back into a tree. 'What should I do?'
Daniel winced, keeping his gaze on Neva. "Neptune Vortex!"
Neva smirked and dodged the attack. "I can see the fear in your eyes fairy boy. You doubt your abilities. I just don't see what's so special about you."
"You're wrong." Daniel said. "I'm not afraid of you. My friends make me stronger. I won't hide anymore." At that moment a fish shaped brooch with a turquoise pearl appeared on in the center of his chest along with a blue and turquoise wallet appeared on his belt. "What is this?"
Neva glared and prepared another attack. "Ice Bullets!"
"I'm not sure what that is, but you can't just stand there." Zane said.
"Neptune Whirlpool!"
Neva cried out in pain and dropped to her knees. "I'll get you for this." She then disappeared within a block of ice.
"You got your Charmix." Rafe said. "They are magic items that give you a little power boost. It's only temporary though."
"Why did they appear now?" Daniel asked.
"Perhaps it was because you decided that you didn't want to hide." Zane said. "You're a lot different now."
Daniel smiled and helped Zane off the ground. "I meant it. I'm tired of hiding."
Rafe sat up and leaned back against a tree. "You're stronger now. Use that power wisely. You're going to need it."
"He's grown a lot lately." Moira said, walking into Faragonda's office.
Faragonda nodded, watching Daniel from the window. "Yes. Let's just hope that he can fight when he's truly needed."
"The ones behind the attacks have already gathered a lot of essence." Moira said. "Not to mention that they have already taken down the Winx. What happens when they get Daniel as well?"
Faragonda turned to Moira and sighed a little. "Let's hope that it doesn't come to that. He's the last piece of the puzzle. All they need now is his blood. The power of the essences merged into one can be destructive."
"Their numbers have been brought down." Moira said. "And it's not just the Scoutix either. Two of the collectors have already joined our side."
Faragonda sat down and nodded. "Hopefully it will be enough."
Magix City
Ulrik stepped off the bus with Cassie and Gale, smiling a little. "I have a friend here in the city that you can stay with."
"Just promise to come back for me." Cassie said. "You still have to help me find a family."
Ulrik nodded and watched Cassie walk off with his friend. 'Let's just hope that I'm actually able to return from all of this.'
"She'll be just fine Ulrik." Gale said.
Ulrik sighed and looked to Gale. "I know. She doesn't need to be part of this battle. Catarina wasn't upset that you came with me. Or was she?"
"Not at all." Gale said. "Catarina isn't like that at all. She was practically pushing me out the gate."
~~~Flashback~~~
"Ulrik can't take Cassie to the city alone." Catarina said. "He's a target now. It wouldn't be good for him if he was alone. Just hurry up and get going already. I need time to do some research."
~~~End~~~
Ulrik laughed a little and looked around at the city. Luckily, they had managed to keep everything from getting completely destroyed. The damage was only on one side of the city. "You're lucky to have a girl like her."
"Yeah." Gale said. "I'm sure that you can find someone just as special."
Ulrik looked down and gripped his arm. "Maybe. I've never really thought about that kind of thing. Cassie has been my main focus lately."
Shadow Lair
Neva appeared in her room, a little annoyed. 'How could I allow them to defeat me? I will have my revenge on the pesky fairy. Who cares what Shadow says? Fairy boy must be dealt with.'
"You've been up to no good Neva." Krista said, standing in the doorway. "Attacking fairy boy will make Shadow very angry."
Neva turned and glared at Krista. "I'm not the only one Krista. How long did you hide Ulrik's secret? Although, forcing him to do what you wanted was magnificent. We're supposed to collect the essence. Fairy boy is no exception. And I intend to make him pay."
"I like how you think Neva." Krista said. "You want to take over this place. In order to do that, you would have to take out Shadow."
Neva laughed and smirked. "Exactly. When the time comes, I will deal with him."
"Send out another of your beasts Rangda." Shadow said.
Rangda smirked and wrapped her arms around him. "I don't take orders from you. Or have you forgotten that? You take orders from me. Isn't that right my pet?" Her amulet formed in her hand and started to glow bright red.
"Of course." Shadow said as his eyes flashed red.
Rangda laughed and rubbed his face. "That's a good boy. I gave you this power and I can easily take it away. Or cause you pain." She smiled a little and squeezed the amulet. "It's time for you to rest now."
Shadow winced and held his heart. "Yes mistress." Within seconds, he drifted off into a deep sleep.
'