Chapter 3: Meeting The Others
As Alyssa and Flora walked Alyssa said "Well Flora you wanted to know what questions they asked me. Well I was asked how I might handle any bigotry and harassment that may arise from other students as a result of my trans status. That question was the first one I was asked. Then I was asked about I discovered my power and how I've refined them. I think the hardest question I was asked was a question from Palladium when I was asked about my hobbies or the question from DuFour when she asked me about etiquette and dancing I haven't danced ever but I gave it my best shot."
"I'm proud of you Alyssa. You only recently learned about this world and you handled yourself wonderfully. I have a feeling you're gonna do great things you've already met four of the professors what do you think of all of the ones you met?"
"Griselda is kinda cold but she seems to have good intentions. Palladium is very nice if not a bit too excited. The headmistress is really nice. DuFour is really into us being proper and maintaining decorum. It seems like I have my work cut out for me. I was told that I was gonna be rooming with you and five other students, what can you tell me about the other girls I'm gonna be rooming with?"
"Well there's me you kinda know a little bit about me but I'm the fairy of nature, I have a lot of plants in my room but my door is always open to you. Then we have Bloom guardian of the dragon flame, she's really nice you're gonna love her she is one of my best friends. Then we have Musa, she's the fairy of music if you play an instrument you and her will get along very well. Then we have Techna, the fairy of technology, I noticed when I was at your home you built a miniature Doppler Radar you and her might get along well. Then we have Aisha the fairy of waves, she's intuitive yet stubborn and impatient you might butt heads but she means well. Then we have Stella… oh boy where do I begin with her… well Stella comes from a royal heritage and holds more traditional values so if she says something insensitive just know she might not mean it."
"I'll keep that in mind, thank you Flora, you've been a big help lately. I'm sure glad I met you, thank you for advocating for me to be enrolled here."
"Don't mention it Alyssa, oh we're here at the dorm Stella is usually out right now so you won't have to worry about her saying something that might come off as mean." Flora said as she opened the door to the dorm. Standing inside was Bloom and Techna.
"Flora, who's this? She seems kinda shy." Bloom said as Techna walked up to Alyssa, analyzing her with a pad.
"Wow she's not like any of the other girls here. Flora are you aware that she's assigned male at birth? I know Faragonda accepted here here but…" Techna said in her British accent.
Flora held up a hand. "Yes Techna I know, but does that really matter now she's a student of Alfea now and we should make her feel welcomed and included in our friend circle. She may have been assigned male at birth but she's a girl and we need to respect that."
Techna looked at Bloom who smiled and with a nod Techna said, "You're right Flora I'm sorry. Alyssa its very nice to meet you. Could you tell us a bit about you. I'm sure you and Flora have gotten to know each other but we would like to know about you."
"We'll Techna My name is Alyssa, and I'm from Earth. I discovered my Winx abilities not too long ago, which is weather manipulation, and now here I am at Alfea."
Bloom, who was now perched on her own bed, turned to Alyssa with a warm smile. "Hi, Alyssa. It's great to meet you officially. I'm Bloom, the fairy of the Dragon Flame, as I'm sure Flora told you. Alfea has been my home for a while, and it's an amazing place to learn and grow."
Techna, who was now engrossed in her holographic tablet, looked up and offered a nod. "Your abilities are a fascinating subject. Have you noticed any particular patterns or influences on your weather manipulation?"
Alyssa appreciated Techna's directness. "Yes, I have. My emotions seem to play a role in how I control the weather. When I'm calm and focused, it's easier to channel my abilities. But when I'm feeling overwhelmed filled with self doubt or any other negative emotion, especially anger, it can be a bit harder to control especially if I started calm and focused. It can be a real recipe for disaster I remember this one time during my freshman year of high school I was causing a gentile drizzle to cool off the area around school but then I was shoved into a trash can causing the light rain to turn into a downpour that lasted several days."
Techna's eyes sparkled with interest. "Fascinating. Emotion-based magical control is an area of great interest to me. We should discuss this further sometime. I mean if you're up for it, no pressure"
Bloom's enthusiasm was palpable. "Absolutely! It's incredible how our powers are connected to our emotions. And it sounds like you're making great progress already."
Alyssa's nerves began to dissipate as the conversation flowed naturally. She smiled at her new roommates, feeling a sense of camaraderie and acceptance. "Thank you, Bloom, Flora and Techna. I'm really looking forward to learning and growing alongside both of you. And I hope we can support each other on this magical journey."
Bloom's smile brightened. "Definitely, Alyssa. We're here for each other, and you're part of our little Alfea family now, if you need anything don't hesitate to ask. Alfea is one big sisterhood and we're here to help one another. Oh Alyssa where are your bags didn't you pack anything?"
"Well Bloom," Flora said "Alyssa only just found out she's a fairy she didn't have time to pack, I'm not sure if she could have had time. We should ask Griselda if we can accompany her back to her home and help her pack some clothes." Flora then turned to Alyssa, "would you like us to accompany you back to your home and help you pack some things?"
"Absolutely," Alyssa said
"We just need to obtain permission from Miss Faragonda or Griselda its protocol and best if we follow it to the letter, especially with you being a new student here and all." Flora said.
"Let's all go down to her office and ask I'm sure she'll be understanding, but you picked your room right?" Bloom asked.
"Yep in between Flora and… I guess that's Stella's room. I hope that's okay."
"It should be okay but as I'm sure Flora told you Stella can be very opinionated but lets get going. If its trouble we'll cross that bridge when we get to it."
The trio walked to the office of Headmistress Faragonda.
"Oh Bloom, Flora, Alyssa what brings you three here?" Faragonda asked.
"Well Miss Faragonda, Alyssa is seeking permission to head home to get somethings. I'm sure you understand that because she only recently discovered her power she didn't have time to pack." Bloom explained.
"Of course you have permission just be back by curfew at midnight." Faragonda reassuringly stated.
As Bloom, Flora, and Alyssa made their way to Alyssa's home, they were met with the quiet serenity of a suburban neighborhood. The houses exuded a sense of familiarity, and Alyssa's heart raced with both anticipation and apprehension. This was her home, the place where her journey had begun. Arriving at the doorstep, Alyssa took a deep breath and knocked on the door. After a moment, the door creaked open, revealing a woman with weary eyes that held a glimmer of recognition. She looked at Alyssa, a mix of surprise and concern evident in her gaze.
"Alyssa?" the woman questioned, her voice carrying a touch of disbelief.
Alyssa offered a tentative smile. "Hi, Mom. I'm back, wait you don't smell like alcohol"
Alyssa's mother stared at her for a moment, as if trying to process the reality of the moment. "Where have you been? I've been worried sick. I looked everywhere for you, I called your high school, you weren't there. I called your aunt you weren't there either of course I stopped drinking I was worried about you"
Bloom and Flora exchanged a glance, sensing the complexity of the situation. They remained respectful, allowing Alyssa and her mother to have their moment, even if it seemed like Alyssa was getting a lecture from her mom.
Alyssa's mother's eyes then fell upon Bloom and Flora, her expression curious. "And who are your friends?"
Alyssa introduced them with a gentle smile. "Mom, these are my friends and new roommates, Bloom and Flora. They're the ones who are gonna help me hone my Winx ability and eventually be a fairy and a defender of the magical realm while I attend this school Alfea."
Her mother's brows furrowed in confusion. "Alfea? Fairies? Winx? Magic? What on earth are you talking about sweetie?"
Bloom stepped forward, her voice gentle and reassuring. "It's a magical school where Alyssa can learn to control and enhance her powers. We thought it was important for her to embrace her true self and grow among fellow fairies."
Flora stepped in, her compassionate gaze meeting Alyssa's mother's. "Alyssa is special, and her abilities are part of who she is. Alfea is a place where she can thrive and be herself."
Alyssa's mother's expression shifted from confusion to a mixture of emotions. "Alyssa Marie Thompson. You disappeared, and I didn't know where you went. I was about to file a missing persons report, but I'm glad you're safe"
Alyssa took a step closer to her mom, her eyes filled with hope. "Mom, I understand this is a lot to take in. But I'm still me, the same person you raised. I just discovered a part of myself I didn't know existed."
Her mom's gaze softened, and she reached out to gently touch Alyssa's cheek. "You've always been special, Alyssa. I just want you to be safe and happy."
Bloom's voice was supportive. "Alyssa will make friends who care about her, and we'll make sure she's safe and supported she's sharing a dorm with me, Flora and four other girls."
Flora added, "We're here to help her on this journey, every step of the way."
Alyssa's mom took a deep breath, her eyes welling with tears. "I want what's best for you, Alyssa. If this is where you belong, then I'll try to understand."
As Alyssa's mom embraced her, Alyssa felt a sense of relief and acceptance that she hadn't anticipated. It was a reminder that love and understanding could transcend even the most unexpected revelations.
"But why are you here sweetie, is everything okay?" Alyssa's mom asked looking at her daughter with a mix of sadness and understanding.
"Well mom, I need to get a few things, mainly from my room. Its good to see you mom, especially clothes, I'm also gonna get that Doppler radar I built."
"Okay sweetie." Alyssa's mom said relived that her daughter is safe.
Alyssa hurriedly went up to her room and began busily packing her suitcase with the clothes she needed for Alfea, meanwhile, Bloom found herself drawn to a series of framed photos on a nearby shelf in the living room. The photos depicted a young boy at various stages of his childhood, each image capturing a different milestone and adventure. Unaware that the boy in the photos was actually Alyssa, Bloom studied the pictures with curiosity.
Flora, ever curious joined Bloom, her gaze landing on the photos. "Whose photos are these, Bloom?"
Bloom's eyes were thoughtful as she answered, "I'm not sure, Flora. They look like they belong to Alyssa's family. There's something really heartwarming about them."
As Bloom and Flora continued to admire the photos, Alyssa's mom spoke up about the photos wanting to alleviate the mystery that had arisen. "Oh, I see you've found the old photo albums. Those are memories of Alyssa's childhood."
Bloom turned to Alyssa's mom with a smile. "These photos tell a story. It's clear that these memories hold a lot of meaning."
Alyssa's mom's eyes softened, a hint of nostalgia in her voice. "Yes, they do. Alyssa's childhood was filled with joy and adventure."
As Alyssa continued packing in her room, she overheard the conversation in the living room. She paused for a moment, touched by the interaction between Laura, Bloom, and Flora. Stepping out of her room, she joined them, suitcase in tow.
"Hey, guys," Alyssa greeted, a mix of emotions in her eyes.
Laura turned to her daughter, her expression softening. "Alyssa, we were just talking about your childhood photos."
Alyssa offered a sheepish smile. "Yeah, those are from before... well, you know."
Bloom and Flora exchanged a glance, understanding that the photos held a deeper significance than they had realized.
Bloom's voice was kind as she spoke to Laura. "Mrs. Thompson, Alyssa seemed to forget to mention that she needs a dress for a formal banquet at Alfea. She's been looking for something special to wear."
Laura's eyebrows lifted in interest. "A formal banquet? That sounds important. What do you need, Alyssa?"
Alyssa hesitated for a moment, her gaze meeting her mom's. "Actually, Mom, do you still have your old prom dress? The one you wore to your high school senior prom? If you don't have that one the one from your junior prom."
Laura's eyes held a mixture of surprise and understanding. "My old prom dresses? Yes, I still have them. Why do you ask?"
Flora spoke up "Well Mrs. Thompson…"
"Please, call me Laura, Mrs. Thompson makes me sound so old I'm only 45" Laura said
"Well Laura, at Alfea the beginning of the school year is marked by a big formal banquet and I think that your daughter would be honored to wear one of those dresses." Flora said.
Laura's smile grew, a mixture of pride and affection in her eyes. "Alyssa, I think that's a wonderful idea. Of course, you can have my old prom dresses its not like I need them any more.."
Alyssa's heart swelled with gratitude. "Thanks, Mom. It means a lot to me."
Flora and Bloom stood there with Alyssa as her mom brought out the dresses from the closet near the front door, and Laura packed them in Alyssa's suitcase, which was filled with clothes, her Doppler radar and a few of her childhood stuffed animals. Laura looked at her daughter with tears in her eyes, before saying "Now sweetheart don't forget to write me and visit when you can."
"I will mom. I love you." Alyssa said fighting back tears, before turning to Bloom and Flora "lets get going the other girls might be in the dorm already, I can't wait to meet them. Well most of them."
The trio said goodbye to Alyssa's mother and then left her childhood home to head back to Alfea. Once back at Alfea, Musa and Aisha were in the dorm, chatting with Techna.
Alyssa's heart raced with a mixture of anticipation and excitement as she walked back into her dorm room at Alfea. She had just returned from her home with Bloom and Flora, her suitcase filled with clothes, her HRT and memories. As she entered the room, she noticed Aisha and Musa engaged in a lively conversation with Techna, who was sitting at her desk. However, Musa and Aisha didn't seem to know who she was.
Aisha's laughter filled the air as she spoke to Musa. "You won't believe the adventure we had during our last mission. I had to use my Water ability to create a whirlpool and—"
Musa cut in, her eyes sparkling. "Wait, wait, wait. Aisha, you can't leave me hanging like that. What happened next?"
As their conversation continued, Alyssa cleared her throat, feeling a touch of nervousness. All three fairies turned their attention to her, their expressions curious.
Techna looked at her with a smile. "Oh, welcome back, Alyssa. Did you manage to retrieve the clothes you needed?"
Alyssa nodded, her voice warm. "Yes along with medication I need, thanks to Bloom and Flora's help. I appreciate it."
Aisha and Musa exchanged glances, confusion evident on their faces. Aisha turned to Techna. "Techna, do you know who she is?"
"I sure do Aisha this is Alyssa, remember I told you we have a new roommate this is her."
"Rock on, I'm Musa. Its nice to meet you Alyssa. Welcome to our pad."
Alyssa took her suitcase to her room and began unpacking it. "Thank you I'm honored to be here. So I've met most of our roommates but where's Stella?"
"Oh she's coming back tomorrow form Solaria, you'll meet her tomorrow." Techna said.
Alyssa smiled as she unpacked her suitcase taking two miniature pride flags, one lgbtq and one transgender out of her suitcase and pinning them to her door which Techna was so kind enough to put up a name plate on. After Alyssa finished unpacking she promptly fell asleep on her bed.
The next morning Alyssa was the first one up and hurried to the shower to be the first one to get clean. The warm water of the shower was relaxing and soothing she washed her hair and body. Her commotion woke up Flora who knocked on the bathroom door.
"Alyssa… do you need anything, you can use my shampoo and body wash in there its okay we're all sisters here."
"Yeah Flora um could you go into my room and on my desk there are two bottles of medication and besides them are a vial of estradiol I need you to grab the medication that's 200 mg twice a day a syringe from next to it and a pink and green needle as well as a towel for me. If you don't mind."
"Not at all Alyssa I'm happy to help." she said walking to Alyssa's room grabbing the things she asked for and bringing them to Alyssa.
"Thanks Flora." Alyssa said giving her roommate a warm smile, before going to her room to get changed… When Alyssa came out of her room she was dressed in an off the shoulder top and a cute black pleated skirt, Bloom was the first to notice.
"That outfit is really cute Alyssa do you have any plans for today?" Bloom asked.
"Probably gonna just relax and do some sketching of the trees around Alfea."
"Oh well um Flora and I are going into town and gonna hang out would you like to come we'd like to have you join us."
"I'd like that it'd be nice to know the town and just get out. Its a nice Sunday and I can't wait for classes tomorrow."
After that trio got cleaned up and dressed they left for a day on the town, in Magicx, the air was filled with a sense of serenity and anticipation. Flora, Bloom, and Alyssa decided to spend the day together, enjoying the enchanting surroundings before the upcoming welcome back banquet at Alfea. They strolled through the lush gardens, the vibrant colors of the flowers and the gentle breeze creating a picturesque scene. As they walked along the garden path, Flora's eyes lit up with delight. "Isn't this place just magical? It's one of my favorite spots to unwind."
Bloom smiled in agreement. "Definitely. Magicx has a calming energy that's perfect for a relaxing day."
Alyssa took in the surroundings, her heart filled with gratitude for this moment. "I can see why you both love it here. It's like a haven of tranquility."
They found a comfortable spot near a bubbling brook, surrounded by blooming flowers. Settling down on a blanket, they enjoyed a simple yet delicious picnic, complete with sandwiches, fruits, and sweet treats.
Flora passed a plate of pastries to Alyssa. "Here, try these. I made them using some enchanted ingredients from the garden."
Alyssa took a bite, her eyes widening in delight. "Wow, these are amazing, Flora! You have a real talent for baking."
Flora blushed, a shy smile on her lips. "Thank you. It's just something I enjoy doing."
Bloom leaned back, soaking in the warm sunlight. "I can't believe how quickly the school year is starting. The welcome back banquet tonight is going to be incredible."
Alyssa's excitement was palpable. "I can't wait! It'll be my first big event at Alfea."
Flora's gaze softened as she looked at Alyssa. "You're going to love it, Alyssa. The banquets are always a special occasion filled with magic and elegance."
As the day unfolded, the three fairies engaged in a variety of activities. They explored the gardens, shared stories, and even had a friendly magical practice session by the brook, casting spells and exchanging laughter.
As the sun began to set, casting a warm golden glow over Magicx, Bloom turned to Alyssa with a smile. "Tonight's banquet is going to be a fantastic way to kick off the school year. We'll get to see everyone again and celebrate the magic that brings us all together."
Alyssa nodded in agreement. "I'm really looking forward to it. And having you both as friends has made this experience even more wonderful."
Flora's voice was gentle as she spoke. "We're here to support each other, Alyssa. You're a part of our little fairy family now."
As the afternoon sun dipped below the horizon, the three fairies shared a moment of quiet reflection, appreciating the bonds they had formed and the magical journey that lay ahead. The welcome back banquet was just the beginning of their adventures at Alfea, and they knew that with friendship and unity, they could face any challenge that came their way. When the trio returned the banquet was in an hour so they hurried to get ready Bloom helping Alyssa with her make-up making sure it was flawless.
As the evening sun dipped below the horizon allowing the moon to rise, the grounds of Alfea were transformed into a realm of enchantment for the welcome back banquet. Glittering lights adorned the trees, and elegant tables were set with a feast fit for fairies. Alyssa, dressed in her borrowed prom dress, felt a mix of excitement and nervousness as she entered the grand banquet hall with Flora and Bloom by her side.
The hall was abuzz with chatter and laughter as students mingled, their sparkling dresses and refined suits adding to the magical ambiance. As they made their way to their table, Alyssa's heart swelled with a sense of awe and belonging. This was the moment she had been looking forward to since arriving at Alfea.
Flora leaned in with a reassuring smile. "Alyssa, you look stunning. Don't worry, you'll fit right in."
Bloom nodded in agreement. "Absolutely. This is a night to celebrate and enjoy."
As they took their seats, Alyssa's eyes scanned the room, taking in the breathtaking decorations and the lively atmosphere. Her gaze landed on a group of girls at a nearby table, their laughter catching her attention. Flora and Bloom followed her gaze, their expressions growing warm.
"Look over there, Alyssa," Flora whispered. "That's Stella, the fairy of the Shining Sun. She's one of our friends."
Bloom chimed in, "She's a bit… unique, but she means well."
Alyssa watched as Stella animatedly chatted with her friends, her radiant presence impossible to miss. A part of her felt drawn to the group, curious about this confident and vibrant fairy. And then, as if fate had orchestrated it, Stella turned her gaze toward their table, her eyes locking onto Alyssa's.
With a playful grin, Stella sauntered over, her long blonde hair shimmering in the soft light. "Well, well, well, what do we have here? A new face at the banquet?"
Alyssa smiled, trying to match Stella's enthusiasm. "Hi, I'm Alyssa. I'm new here. It's nice to meet you."
Stella's gaze lingered on Alyssa, her smile faltering for a moment before she recovered. "Hmm, Alyssa, huh? Well, welcome to Alfea, I suppose. I'm Stella, fairy of the Shining Sun, and the queen of fashion, obviously."
Alyssa couldn't help but be intrigued by Stella's confidence. "Nice to meet you, Stella."
Stella's gaze held a hint of curiosity as she studied Alyssa. "So, Alyssa, what's your power? Every fairy has a unique ability."
Alyssa felt a pang of nervousness, but she held her head high. "I have the power to control weather."
Stella's eyebrows lifted, and her smile turned into a thin line. "Oh, weather, huh? That's… interesting."
Before Alyssa could respond, Stella's attention shifted to Flora and Bloom. "Well, Flora, Bloom, you're Alyssa's friends, right? You both have an eye for, you know, talent. What do you think of our new fairy?"
Flora exchanged a glance with Bloom before answering, her voice measured. "Alyssa is a wonderful addition to our fairy family, Stella."
Bloom added, "She's talented and kind-hearted."
Stella's gaze returned to Alyssa, her smile somewhat forced. "Well, welcome to Alfea, Alyssa. I hope you enjoy your time here."
As Stella walked away, Alyssa felt a mixture of emotions. There was something in Stella's reaction that didn't sit right with her, but she couldn't quite put her finger on it. As the night continued, she couldn't help but wonder if Stella's initial response would have a larger impact on their interactions in the future.
Throughout the evening, the energy of the banquet remained festive and enchanting. Alyssa enjoyed mingling with other students, savoring the delicious food, and dancing to the lively music that filled the air. However, Stella's presence continued to cast a shadow over the night, as she was accompanied by two other girls, Lauren and Emily. Their hushed conversation caught Alyssa's attention.
"...absolutely ridiculous that they let someone like him into Alfea."
"...can't even believe he's pretending to be a real fairy."
As Alyssa approached, a mixture of disbelief and hurt welled up within her. She couldn't fathom why they were talking about her in such derogatory terms. Summoning her courage, she addressed Stella. "Excuse me, Stella, do we have a fucking problem here."
Stella's gaze went ice cold as she looked at Alyssa. "Oh, Alyssa, we're just having a little chat. Don't worry your pretty little head about it. And that language isn't lady like."
Alyssa's voice remained steady, despite the wave of emotions washing over her. "It seems like this 'chat' involves me, so I think I have a right to know what's being said."
Lauren and Emily exchanged smirks, clearly enjoying the discomfort they were causing. Laura scoffed, "Oh, don't get your panties in a twist, 'Alyssa.' We're just having a conversation about... anatomy."
Alyssa felt a knot tighten in her stomach, her palms clammy. She refused to let their hurtful words break her resolve. "I'm here, so if there's something you want to discuss, please say it to my fucking face."
Stella's expression shifted from condescension to annoyance. "Fine, Alyssa. Since you're so…. eager to know, we were just wondering how someone like you got into Alfea. It's a place for real fairies, not... imposters."
Alyssa's heart pounded in her chest, a mixture of anger and sadness swirling within her. She took a deep breath, her voice firm. "I am a real fairy, Stella. My identity and my abilities are just as valid as anyone's here."
Emily chimed in with a mocking laugh. "Oh, come on, Alyssa. Let's be real here. You can't change what you were born as. It's pathetic to think otherwise."
Alyssa's eyes burned with determination and rage as she looked at Stella, Lauren, and Emily. "I don't need your approval or validation. I know who I am, and I won't let your ignorance define me."
As Alyssa turned and walked away, leaving Stella and her friends behind, she felt a mixture of empowerment and pain. She couldn't control the negativity of others, but she could control how she responded. With her head held high, she was determined to rise above the hurtful comments and continue embracing her identity with pride.
As the night drew to a close, Alyssa found solace in the support of Flora, Bloom, and her other friends. She knew that while there might be obstacles to overcome, she was surrounded by those who accepted her for who she was—a real fairy with the power of weather manipulation and the strength to face adversity head-on.
Alyssa ran to her dorm ready to cry, thankfully she was the only one in there at the moment so she just ran to bed and fell asleep crying, not caring that she was sleeping in her moms prom dress or the fact that she didn't remove the make up from her face as she laid down to cry and sleep.