"What am I looking-" But Mal saw it, a small line of lavender wrapping around the wand like a ribbon. This time it was slightly bigger than when Fairy Godmother caught it.

"You've affected it," the Head Mistress announced softly.

Mal's eyes widened in fright, "I'm sorry. I didn't... I just..."

"Child, calm down." Godmother captured her hand and gently caressed it. The gesture was one that Mal had never experienced; a motherly gesture. Mal felt the love and concern that were radiating for the old fairy's eyes, although Mal wasn't quite sure what either of them really meant. The fairy continued, "This is a good thing. A natural occurrence, actually."

Mal felt her throat release a sigh of relief, "it is?"

"Yes," the older fairy smiled. "In fact before I became Godmother the wand was the color of polished gold. Because I affected it, it took a couple years of training and during that training the want turned into the ivory blue it is today."

"But this would mean that I'm... That I'm-"

"My successor," Fairy Godmother finished. "Yes."

"Oh no! No. No. NO!" Mal found herself on her feet pacing once again. "This can't be. I mean isn't Jane suppose to inherit it?"

"The wand isn't an inheritance, Mal. The power of good chooses it's embodiment. The wand will accept no less than the best?"

"Then why is it choosing me? Why do I qualify? I've only chosen to be good a week ago."

"Well Mal, you are the daughter of a fairy. Magic flows through your veins. But I think it chose you because you chose good after being raised evil. You are the best choice to bring in a new generation of change. You are going to be the perfect helpmate for Ben as he works to change his world."

"Excuse me," Mal shot.

But Godmother ignored her, "You and Ben are going to be an amazing power couple."

"Wait, Stop!"

"What?"

"Power couple? What are you talking about?"

Fairy Godmother smiled shyly, "I'm sorry. I guess I do tend to get ahead of myself. I just like seeing you and Benn grow together. I think you'll be so good for him as you come alongside of him as his counsel, and hopefully in the future as his queen."

Mal felt her throat constrict as Fairy Godmother slipped into a dream-like state. What is so scary about marrying Ben? She knew why being heir to the wand is frightening, but she loved Ben... didn't she? She needed to breathe, but oxygen isn't satisfying.

"Oh," Godmother came out of her reverie. "I didn't realize that all of this would frighten you. I'm so sorry Mal." Mal sat silent trying to process it all. Breathe, just breathe Mal. "I've excused you from your classes for the rest of the day. I understand that you may need time to digest all this."

Mal Just nodded and silently stood. She started towards the door, "Um..." She stopped, but didn't turn around. "When do I need to decide?"

"Soon, but I want you to think it over this week."

"Okay." Now Mal turned, "Could you not tell anybody? I want this to be my decision, I won't make it if there is outside pressure."

"I understand, Child. Let me know by the end of the week."

Author's Note: I know in the beginning I promised two chapters a week, so here is the first. I need a little more time on the second. But I hope you liked it.