Summary: It's The Day of the Ross, a celebration of mothers and fathers, and most of the students at the school leave to spend time with their families. But what's supposed to be a day of love brings sorrow, strife and turmoil instead. Will the Winx and their male friends be able to get along when one of their hearts is full of darkness?
A/N:
Howdy again, guys!
It's my birthday on March 3rd and at the time I'm posting this that's in two more days! I'm turning 25! Yay! New age, new me!
How's it going? I'm so glad to return to posting chapters! This is great, and I'm going to keep this short, long story short: life has been hard and stressful, but it won't stop me from writing and posting my story. I decided on posting every month! I just feel like that'll be easier to read for a long fic because that would work for me lol.
What happened to me this month?
Left social media
Still writing, but hit a block so expect 13 through 20 late
Made a new friend
And my birthday is literally on the 3rd of March, so this month! Happy Birthday to me!
I was going to post this as a two-parter, but I want to try something new and post it all together. Now guys, which do you, as a reader, prefer because I'm thinking of putting all the chapters together after this (and maybe do the older ones) from now on. I think that since it's already a long fic that it doesn't matter if it's in parts it's going to be long anyway, but tell me what you want in the comments!
Also if this new posting format is too long and you'd rather have me continue posting as two-parter chapters, tell me in the comments, I'm still not sure what is the right choice and well… maybe my fans and readers can help me decide.
Also, also sorry for the new posting schedule, I know it's gonna be super long for each chapter to post, please don't be mad at me lol. I'm sorry.
Okay now without further blabbering,
Enjoy the chapter and see you in the endnotes!
This is a rewrite. Changes have been made that conflict with the original canon, characters are different so please go in knowing this, whether you like it or not please understand this is a rewrite. Got any suggestions though, just leave them in the comments or PM me!
Chapter 9: Day of the Roses
"Where am I?"
Bloom blinked as she found herself in a dimly lit room. There was a figure in front of her that she couldn't make out and she was surrounded by fog, every step she took made the figure clearer. Her thoughts were jumbled, and she found it hard to breathe. That didn't matter though, that wasn't her main focus as she kept walking towards the glowing figure through the dense fog.
"Do you hear me… do you remember who I am?" echoed a voice from the darkness.
"Who said that?"
"Come to me," the voice guided. "Follow my voice."
"What is going on?"
"Bloom, Bloom… or is it… Blair?"
"Blair… who's Blair?" Bloom questioned. "My name is Bloom; you might be confused."
"Don't you remember me?"
Bloom felt her mind spinning from the name confusion. She placed a hand on her head. She gasped in realization.
"You- you're the one who helped me escape from Cloud Tower, aren't you?" she said. "You've been talking to me for weeks now!"
"Yes, that's who I am," the voice said calmly. "I'm glad to be close to you… again."
Had they met before?
"Where are you?"
"Blair, Blair," the voice called, growing closer. "Come to me."
"You've got the wrong person…" Bloom paused. "I think."
"Look around... Look within..."
Bloom scratched her head. "What the hell does that even mean?"
"You have to remember me…" echoed the voice, its volume rising and fading like someone fiddling with the volume on a music player. "You know who I am."
A cloth touched Bloom's arm as she finally reached her destination and found a surprising site. A bright light emitted from the being before her, causing Bloom to shield her eyes at first. She was awed at the beautiful woman who shined like the brightest star in the galaxy. She was an older girl, clad in the finest of robes, a butterfly mask obscured her eyes. Every single part of her radiated like gold. Bloom couldn't look away now.
Once the two women made eye contact, the shining woman smiled softly. "You're just as gorgeous as I thought you'd be… but…"
The woman groaned, placing a hand on her head.
"Who are you?" Bloom questioned.
"Your destiny awaits you; you must find me…" the woman begged. "When you do, the questions you have will be answered."
"You know… what I am?" Bloom asked. "Tell me please!"
The figure stretched out her hand towards Bloom. "Take my hand, Blair... Remember who you are and…"
The voice groaned again like she was struggling to form words.
Bloom shook her head, backing away nervously. "Remember what? I'm not Blair, I don't know you. Who are you?!"
"Please," the voice begged again. "Your journey awaits."
"The journey? What are you talking about?" Bloom could feel the world shaking around her. "Tell me who you are, please!"
"You shall help us both… remember."
"Look lady, I barely know you, I don't-"
The humming grew louder.
"You're about to wake up," the voice said, fading away slowly. As her voice faded a small echo said, "Prepare, dear Blair."
"Prepare for what?" Bloom shouted as the figure and voice faded away. She tried to grab the woman, but she was gone. She somberly whispered, "Come back."
…
"What do you want from me?!" Bloom shouted, her eyes quickly opening and registering the brightness of the light that was streaming from the window. "Oh my God, why is it so bright in here?"
Bloom sat up in bed, rubbing her eyes. The darkroom she was in was gone, replaced by sunlight. She looked around and found Flora and Kiko staring at her. It was just a dream. She sighed sadly.
"Are you, like, okay?" Flora asked, placing a hand on the girl's blanket-covered leg.
"I'm fine," Bloom said, breathing heavily. She let out a loud yawn as the covers fell from her chest. "Uh… Flora… was I talking in my sleep?"
"Duh, like it was spacey, but from what I could hear it amounted to, 'tell me who you are?'. Kiko was purring on you to calm you down and I started humming as well."
"That explains the ending, but…" Bloom bit her bottom lip. Kiko meowed softly as he came to her and rubbed his head next to hers. She smiled while petting him on the head. "I had the strangest dream."
"Dish girl," Flora said, scooching closer to the girl.
"Well, there was this… woman who was… shining and she was calling to me," Bloom tried explaining the dream, but it was already fading from her memory. She placed a hand on her head, struggling to recall the fragments of what the girl said. "Blair was what she said… and something about… God damn it!"
Bloom buried her head in her hands.
"Totally strange," Flora said, standing up and rubbing her chin.
"What? It's just a dream," Bloom said, scratching Kiko's neck to calm her down. "A weird dream that usually happens when I eat chocolate… doesn't stop me from eating it, ain't that right Kiko?"
Kiko meowed in response.
"No way, dreams don't always mean nothing," Flora said, running over to her nightstand. "I keep a dream journal and trust me most dreams I've had meaning. Like here," the flower child showed her a note from the journal for Bloom to see. "May the fourth, dreamt that my whole family woke up in the middle of the night because a bunch of alligators, like, got in the house on the floor below us."
"I'm... going to regret asking this," Bloom said with a groan. "What actually happened?"
"My mom's weird family visited!" Flora exclaimed. "Total meat-eaters and super, like rude. They wore leather jackets. Ew."
"I'm just surprised you knew the word dreamt," Bloom replied getting out of bed. "Dreams are nonsense. That's all they are."
"Maybe someone was trying to contact you," Flora suggested. "Although it's not recommended. Like messages sent through dreams are often forgotten or mixed up in the surrealist dreamscape, but, like, maybe that's the only way they could communicate."
"Maybe," Bloom pondered, scratching her head. Once she noticed Flora staring at her mystified, she took a few steps back. "Even so, the message was unclear, and I want to put it behind me."
Flora shrugged, placing the journal back into the nightstand drawer and locking it shut. "Don't tell anyone about my journal."
"Trust me, that secret is kept," Bloom promised, chuckling.
"Oh, I can't forget my brushes," Flora said, rushing over to the vanity mirror and opening the bottom drawer, retrieving three purple-tipped paintbrushes. "Won't be able to paint lilies without these."
"Are you going somewhere?" Bloom questioned following the girl towards her bed, noticing the large suitcase on the hippie's bed.
"I'm going home!" Flora answered. "Today is the Day of the Roses, but everyone calls it Rose Day, it's a special three-day holiday, here in Magix - no classes and three days to celebrate!"
"Oh, that's the holiday Stella was talking about!" Bloom realized. "Why didn't anyone tell me?"
"I just assumed you found out through Faragonda," Flora replied with a shrug. "You still have time to pack and head back to Earth."
"Um…" Bloom bit her bottom lip thinking about seeing her parents. She still missed them dearly, but three days wouldn't be enough. "I'll probably just give them a call… I got a lot of papers to finish and stuff. What is Day of the Roses anyways? Other than a really awesome song name."
Flora giggled. "This is a holiday where everyone celebrates their parents! It was originally meant for mothers, but some people stretched the importance of fathers, which I agree with and so fathers were included. It's one of my favorite days of the year!"
"Parents?" Bloom said, intrigued. "So basically, like on Earth we have father's and mother's day, this is that but combined?"
"Pretty much," Flora responded, smiling. "Cheesy Pete's two holidays for parents? Nice. Although the celebration of both parents on one day is totally easier to deal with."
Bloom nodded. "Agreed. I'll just wait for those days and get something nice then. I'm not used to these new holidays."
Flora placed a hand on the girl's shoulder. "Don't worry, you'll learn to love them!"
Bloom playfully swatted the girl's hand away. "I'm just glad I have an extra vacation day. You're visiting your folks?"
"Totes, my mom and dad are gonna get the best presents!" Flora said, eagerly. "I got them ceramic flowerpots shaped like pumpkins. The perfect gift!"
Bloom smiled while walking over to her vanity drawer remembering her mother's garden back home.
"I'm off!" Bloom heard a voice call in the living room. She walked outside and found Tecna with a large rucksack.
"Going home too?" asked Bloom.
"Yo' knows it, my parents have been missin' me! Although most of it has to do with my work on the ranch," Tecna said, chuckling. "I can't wait to see 'em though. Ma's home-cookin' alone is callin' my name. What about you fyrecracka?"
"Eh, I'll be staying here," replied the redhead. "I have assignments to do, I'm settling on giving them a quick phone call."
She rubbed her arm, feeling a pang of guilt for not visiting them, but it just wasn't worth it if she had to leave so quickly.
"Fair enough," the scarred girl said, adjusting the pack around her arms. "Flo'a you ready?"
"Yup, just had to say goodbye to Eric and Stacy, they'll miss me the most," Flora replied and when she was met with confused stares from her, she sighed. "Yes, it's two flytraps."
"We need to talk mo'e?" Tecna said, walking with the girl out of the flat. "See y'all next Monday!"
Bloom, Stella, and Musa all waved goodbye, as their friends left the common room. Bloom sighed plopping down in the armchair.
"Welp, it's Friday and I officially have nothing to do," Bloom complained, revealing her homework load was non-existent. "You guys hungry?"
"You know it," Stella said, her stomach loudly growling in agreement. "They're serving a true Solarian breakfast! Bangers, eggs, and my favorite griddle cakes!"
Stella clapped eagerly. Bloom chuckled at the girl's excitement.
"I'll go get dressed," Musa said, but this time sounding calm, and her usual skip was replaced with a somber walk. Bloom and Stella stared at each other shocked.
…
Later, the girls finished breakfast and were the only three in the dining hall, even Griselda wasn't there. Bloom took a long sip of her tea before swallowing it hard from the bitter taste. She couldn't understand why Stella liked the stuff that much or how she drank with such grace.
After placing her teacup down, she looked around the empty room and sighed.
"Jesus, it's weird seeing the school this empty again," she noticed. "I kind of miss all the students."
Stella shrugged. "Nobody really wants to pass up the chance to be with their parents for three days."
"Indeed," sounded the voice of Wizgiz, causing the three girls to jolt in shock. They turned to see the leprechaun standing right next to them, as always, he seemed to pop out of thin air to scare students. The old man chuckled. "I love doin' that to people."
Stella chuckled before resting her chin on her folded hands. "You headed home as well?"
"You know it, lassie," he answered, forming a rose in his pocket. "And now I can give my ol' ma a flower. Have a pleasant weekend ladies."
"You too," called the three fairies as the little man left the dining hall.
As he left, Griselda walked in with her clipboard in hand, she nodded at the fairies, but then took a seat a few tables away.
After a short pause, Stella took a sip from her tea and asked, "So Bloom, what's the real reason you aren't with your parents."
Bloom's eyes widened. Her bestie read right through her lies. "Mind Reader," she said with a smirk. Once she thought about her parents her smirk faded. "I just… it's just… I want to go, but there are so many risks to avoid with the black circle and all."
"And?" Stella questioned with a raised eyebrow.
Bloom sighed. "Plus… three days with them isn't enough. I'd just get homesick when I got back here."
"Aww," Musa cooed with a smile.
"Shut up," Bloom said blushing. "I wish I could be there longer."
"We have another break coming up in two months, so don't worry, you'll be able to see them for a tad longer… about three weeks," Stella replied, finishing off her tea. "With that one, midsummer off, you have to leave campus."
Bloom scoffed, "Or more cleaning duties?"
"No," Griselda called, her eyes fixed on her clipboard.
"Thank you," Bloom said sardonically. She then turned her attention back to her friends. "Well, you read me like a book, now tell me why you're staying here? Parents busy ruling a kingdom?"
Stella stared at the teacup silently, a few seconds passed as the two fairies waited for her response. Her fingers tapped the cup as she seemed to be thinking of what to say next. She let out a somber sigh.
"My parent's divorce… finalized last week," she finally answered. "They're not together anymore."
"Oh... really?" Bloom replied, shocked.
Musa placed a hand on the Princess's shoulder.
"Yeah, they separated a year and a half ago and wanted to end things quickly… So, they did last Friday… I just didn't feel like talking about it," Stella bit her bottom lip tightly. "Papers have been signed and everything, so it makes things awkward. The sun and moon have separated… doesn't help that the press has been hounding them about affairs and secret children, which neither have had! They just… fell out of love… the hard way sadly. So… that's why I'm here."
"Oh… sorry for bringing it up," Bloom said, holding her head down. She remembered how tense Stella became whenever her parents were brought up, especially when she lost her ring, but she hadn't guessed they were on the verge of divorce.
Smooth, her belittling conscience said.
It's not your fault, the voice from her dreams comforted.
"It's not your fault, really," Stella repeated aloud. "I just don't like talking about it, that's all, I keep it to myself. I should've told you guys."
"Well on the bright side, you're handling it well," Musa comforted. "That's all that matters."
"I don't care…" Stella paused, staring back down at her cup. Her ring tapped the rim of the glass slowly. "I'm done with both of them."
Bloom frowned, she placed a hand on top of Stella's and said, "I'm really sorry."
"Hey, could be worse," Stella said, pulling her hand away. "It did make me realize that… love truly is an illusion."
An awkward silence descended at the table and all that could be heard was Griselda's tea sipping. The sadness from an outside perspective made her sadder. She wanted to hug her but wasn't sure that would help.
"Right… well I made things awkward," Bloom said aloud, making Stella giggle, but she still showed sadness. The redhead wanted to change the subject fast. "Musa, why are you here?"
"Yeah, you've been quite forlorn since the morning," Stella mentioned, seeming glad the subject had veered away from her. "What happened?"
"I haven't celebrated this day in a long time because..." Musa held her head down, her smile still on her face, but more plaintive. "I haven't gotten anyone to celebrate with."
She paused, closing her eyes in silence. "I lost my mom when I was seven and papa usually shuts down on this day… so it's pointless to be around him."
"Oh my God, I didn't know!" Bloom apologized. "I am so sorry."
"It's fine," Musa said, her smile widening. "It's not your fault she's gone, it's no one's fault… she just… as my nana says, 'Was a shining star too bright for this world'."
"I shouldn't have stuck my nose into it," Bloom said, blushing. She felt like she stuck her foot in her mouth. "I should've kept my mouth shut with both of you."
"You have nothing to apologize for," Stella reassured her.
"Yeah, I've made peace with it," Musa said calmly. Her smile never seemed to fade as she talked like she really was content with everything. "You couldn't have known. For me, this day is just a little sadder than others, but hey, life goes on. There's not much more I can do about it, except live with my memories. Now stop being down in the dumps, this is still a special holiday, and our families love us no matter what."
Musa stood up and held her hands out ready for a hug. Bloom and Stella smiled and joined in, hugging each other tightly. The hug lingered as Griselda silently left with a small smile on her face.
Stella pulled back, wiping her eyes of small tears.
"Tears, coffee, and tea," Bloom said, hiding her tears. "Not my idea of a tasty breakfast!"
Stella laughed before adding, "All right! It's a beautiful day and there's a party in town!"
Just as she said that her phone began ringing and she whipped it out while saying, "This better not be her…" After a short pause, her face lit up and she eagerly answered, "Oh, it's you," she giggled. "Yes, I'm still at Alfea… really? I'm so happy for you!" There was a brief pause. "Oh, I'd love to come, and can I bring Bloom and Musa? Perfect. Bye love." Stella made a kissing sound before hanging up the call. She squealed, perking up as she bounced over to Bloom. "Sky, Brandon, and Riven are participating in the air cycle race in Magix today and they invited us!"
"That sounds like fun," replied Bloom.
"Yes, double high five!" Stella said, holding up her hands.
Bloom rolled her eyes and followed suit, slapping her hands against Stella's to appease the Princess who pumped her fist in the air happily.
"No thanks," Musa declined, shocking the two girls. "I'd rather stay here by myself. That's what I usually do on this day."
"You sure?" Stella asked.
"Yeah… yeah... but you have fun," Musa said, perking up as best as she could. "I want you to have tons of fun! That's an order."
Stella and Bloom laughed.
"All right," Stella said, hugging Musa. "We'll bring you back something, you hang in there, okay?"
"I always do," Musa said somberly.
Bloom hugged Musa next before the blue-haired girl left the dining hall, humming to herself. Bloom sighed admiring the chipper girl's resilience on a day that was so somber for her.
…
Cloud Tower was empty as well, students had traveled home to see their parents as well, sans three wicked witches and an equally wicked Headmistress. Headmistress Griffin sat at her desk as Icy, Darcy and Stormy stood in front of her.
"Your powers have been returned to you," Griffin said, wiping her hands after performing the spell to reactivate their powers. "What do you say?"
"Thank you," the three young witches mumbled.
"Good," Griffin said, she then slammed her fist on her desk, startling the three girls. "I'm still pissed! As I stated last week if you're going to wreak havoc, do it without making fools of yourselves!"
Icy, Darcy, and Stormy shared a collective groan, blushing embarrassed.
"I mean I'm not upset about what you've done, if you had succeeded, I'd be giving you a medal, it's that you got caught!" Griffin scolded. "I should kick you out of my school!"
"But we're seniors!" Icy snapped, before quickly regretting and sucking on her bottom lip. The Headmistress glared at her, causing a shiver to go down the girl's spine. Icy pointed to Darcy before saying, "She made me say it."
"I hate you," Darcy said, annoyed.
Griffin rolled her eyes and rubbed her forehead. "I'm not going to, because I can sense the negative energy within you, you have the power to become truly wicked witches."
"Thank you," Stormy said pridefully.
"You still have to prove yourselves," Griffin said, slithering between the two girls with a wicked grin. "There is a growing alliance between the fairies of Alfea and the specialists of Red Fountain. There's a friendship between the schools and it makes me sick. This could be the start of a union that would change the balance of power unless you three destroy this alliance."
"You want us to do what?" Darcy exclaimed before her mouth was covered by Icy.
"When do we start?" the ice witch asked with a growing leer on her face.
"Right now!" Griffin answered sitting back down at her desk. "Today this insufferable Rose Festival is going on in the city. Your dear little fairies will be there, and so will the boys from Red Fountain. Do whatever you want. Use whatever you need. All that matters is that at the end of the day, the kinship between fairies and specialists will be spoiled forever! Now, get to work!"
"You picked the best girls," Stormy said arrogantly.
"I feel like you're putting a lot on our plate!" Darcy said before being yanked out by Icy and Stormy.
"Shut up, we got this!" Icy said, leaving the office. "Dragon's flaming breath, you are such a worrywart."
"How are we going to cause a divide between them?" Darcy questioned once she knew they were away from the Headmistress. "Griffin is letting us find a needle in a fucking haystack."
"I got this one," Stormy said before Icy could talk. She wrapped her arm around Darcy's shoulder. The glass-wearing witch stared at the arm warily. "Never underestimate the power of a witch. We're senior-level witches, we have an ogre, and we have a lot of free time on our hands. Stop concerning yourself with nonsense. Now let's wreck some shit!"
"This better not blow up in our faces," Darcy relented as she and the girls made their way down the halls of Cloud Tower.
…
In her room, Musa carefully dug through her possessions. From the back of her cupboard, she fished out an object underneath a stack of books. It was a small pink metal chest. She pushed a button revealing a metal flower-shaped object, a lighter, and a small white candle within the box.
She sighed happily before closing the box and standing up, leaving the room, and heading to the roof. As she walked down the silent halls, humming to herself she spotted Griselda at the opposite end of the hall.
She waved while saying, "Happy Rose Day, Deputy Headmistress Griselda."
"Musa you saw me earlier, you don't have to wish me that," the deputy headmistress said kindly.
"I always like to say it," Musa said, smiling. "Why are you here, if you don't mind me asking?"
"Well, I never had kids, so I have none to celebrate with and my parents passed away when I was very young," Griselda answered somberly. "So, I just stay here and keep to myself, getting prepared for when classes start back up and it's okay that you asked, I don't mind talking about it."
Without saying a thing, Musa smiled and hugged the woman tightly before saying, "They'd be so proud of you."
"And yours are proud of you," Griselda said back as she pulled away. "Happy Rose Day, Musa."
Musa nodded before walking away, continuing to hum. Soon she made her way to the top of the roof and stared across the land. She rested her chin on her hand while saying, "I remember when you used to tell me about this place, mama... You said it was your favorite spot when you went to Alfea. You said it was nice staring at the horizon… you were right."
Musa giggled, before softly adding, "This was the place where papa kissed you."
She looked down at her feet. "I'm stepping foot where you did," she shuffled her feet slightly while giggling. She looked around the spot smiling softly. "Well, let's get started."
Musa opened the box and pulled out the flower, candle, and lighter. She placed the small white candle upright and lit it. She pressed a button and the flower unfolded, a light emitting from the center, forming a hologram image of a woman.
She was tall, with delicate features, her black hair set up in stylish pigtails. Her long red dress flowed over her body like a waterfall. She had a smile on her face that could light up a room. Musa made sure to keep the flower and candle separated.
She got down on her knees and recalled the words her mother had taught her when praying to give thanks to the deceased for all they had given to those who still lived.
She inhaled for a few seconds before exhaling calmly. "Hi, again mama, happy Rose Day. It's been a weird couple of weeks, but it's all worth it because… I have my new friends to keep me happy! Aren't you happy mama?" she bit her bottom lip, trying to hold back the tears.
"This week was great as the others; I hung out with my besties, learned a new spell, and bought a new outfit. It's so cute, not too cute! Papa always tells me not to look childish, but mature like you use- like you are." Musa held her head down, breathing deeply.
"Every week has been great since I started at Alfea though. There have been some nutty things happening, but it's like you said, 'every day may not be good, but there is something good in every day'. Oh yeah, back to my friends! They're great. Bloom, Stella, Tecna, and Flora are my new best friends… they're so nice and one's even a Princess. I really… I'm really glad I have them, mama. You always wanted me to have friends. I also met some guys, one boy with spiky hair is really cute and mysterious… I think he likes me."
Musa giggled, but tears started to form in her eyes. Readjusting her sitting she sat down folding her legs in a lotus position.
"I know you're not here with me, but I like our talks… I like being here with you even though you're gone… I would say I miss you, but you're always around me… yeah… I love you… but you know that… yeah…"
She wiped her eyes and looked over the horizon again.
"I learned a new song, ready to hear it?" she asked, but she already knew the answer. "It's a song I heard a while ago… I think you'll like it."
Musa cleared her throat and then started singing, "Hundreds of stars in the pretty sky,
Hundreds of shells on the shore together,
Hundreds of birds that go singing by,
Hundreds of birds in the sunny weather.
Hundreds of dewdrops to greet the dawn,
Hundreds of bees in the purple clover,
Hundreds of butterflies on the lawn,
But there is only one mother in the whole wide world… for me."
The loss of a mother is like losing a piece of you, and ever since she was a little girl, no matter how happy she tried to be, Musa still had that missing piece. But she reminded herself that her mother was with her in her heart. Her memory lived on in Musa and her papa. That was all that mattered at this moment. As she kept singing, the tears started to flow like a dam breaking free and releasing the waters. She couldn't hold it in anymore, but as she sang and cried, her smile never wavered.
…
"It's really nice out today," Sky said as he, Brandon, and Riven slowly made their way through the throng of people in the streets of Magix.
"Nice? I feel like I'm going to be sick," Riven complained. "I hate how crowded the city becomes this year, and all for a stupid nonsensical holiday."
"Riven, you're the reigning king of negativity," Brandon chastised. "It's a holiday celebrating parents, enjoy it."
Riven scoffed. "It's a stupid commercialized holiday, dude." His two friends chuckled at their friend's frustration. "Whatever all I'm saying is with all these people I can barely breathe."
"You'll be fine," Sky said, walking faster as he spotted Bloom and Stella standing near a light post. As the group made their way over to the girls, some faster than others.
"This day couldn't get any worse," Riven mumbled.
Right on cue, as if to annoy the spiky hair boy, even more, a ship flew overhead, letting loose a rain of picked single roses, causing the people in the city to awe in wonder and appreciation for the event.
"Cool. Headache, dead flowers that can hurt me with spikes, and large crowds. This is how I decided to spend my day off," said the grumpy warrior annoyed.
"Live a little," Sky said, grabbing hold of a rose from the airship with ease without pricking his finger. "Rose for a lovely lady."
"You always know how to charm a girl," Stella said giggling.
Bloom smiled, happy to see the Princess cheerful again. Brandon walked over to her with a wide grin, he seemed to light up seeing her.
"Hello, greetings, Bloom!" he exclaimed.
"Sup, greetings to you too, Goldilocks," Bloom greeted back.
Brandon's left eye twitched when he heard Riven chuckling. The nickname seemed to annoy him when his rival heard it. To change the subject, he reached down and grabbed a rose to impress Bloom, but quickly winced in pain. He opened his hand holding the rose and noticed a little blood coming from his thumb. He decided to ignore it.
"Rose for you?" he said nervously, holding it out in front of her. His hand trembled, passing it over to her.
"Covered in drops of blood? Kind of cool. Thanks, Goldi," Bloom said, chuckling. "Seriously though, thank you."
"Yes!" Brandon cheered.
"Oh, my dragon," Riven groaned. "Yo, Romeos, look, some racers are already warming up."
The group turned to the racetrack near the lamp post, making their way through the crowd they spotted the air cyclist racing around the tracks. Bloom chuckled realizing this reminded her of NASCAR back home.
"I love the annual Race for the Rose," Brandon said with a sigh. "So, exhilarating."
Just as he said that a racer made a great jump with his bike before riding off quickly. Everyone cheered, even Bloom.
"It's going to be an intense race this year," Sky said.
"Maybe for you guys," Riven said confidently. "For me, it's going to be a relaxing walk in the park."
Brandon sighed with a smile. "Oh boy. Here it comes."
"No, no don't act like that," Riven said, making his way out of the crowd with an air of arrogance. "I'm going to win."
"We're not doing this again," Brandon said.
"I'm just saying, you jokers don't stand a chance," Riven said.
"He's been like this all morning?" Bloom questioned, already knowing the answer. "Why don't you give your buddies a chance to win?"
"Please," Riven scoffed. "A chance of beating the Rivenator isn't possible. I'm going to leave these wannabes in the dust. They might as well put my name on the Rose trophy right now."
"You really think you're just going to win?" Sky chastised with a smirk.
"Duh, didn't you fall off your bike during training?" Riven mentioned chuckling.
"I- my shoelace got caught on the wheel!" Sky defended, blushing.
"Why can't you just accept you'll be taking third place," Brandon joked.
Riven didn't like that as he said, "Talk all you want, squire boy, but as you and the prince will learn, air cycling requires skill, which can't be bought."
"Don't you talk to him like that!" Stella snapped, stepping in front of Sky with a red face. "He can beat your pants off!"
"Calm down little Princess, the men are talking," Riven said, poking the Princess on the nose.
Stella seethed and balled her fist so much so that her nails dug into her palm, but Sky pulled her away before she could pounce on the boy with her sharp nails.
Bloom noticed how incredibly angry Stella got when she was around the spiky-haired boy. She didn't hate Riven, but she understood her. Riven's jadedness was like an acquired taste, Bloom just happened to tolerate it. She was about to say something, but heard cheering and turned her attention toward the racetrack.
"You sure you want to do this? It's pretty dangerous," Bloom asked Brandon, slightly concerned as she noticed how fast the bikes were going.
"Don't worry, leva-bikes are safe, we wear state-of-the-art padding, and everything is regulated," Brandon reassured. "I do appreciate the concern though."
They turned to look at the tracks where a rider completed another jump. The gravel from his bike blinded the rider behind him, causing him to fall off his bike which collided with the force field shield surrounding the crowd, and the wheel bounced across the ground.
"I'm okay," the driver called, standing up wobbling on the ground dizzily. "I meant to do that."
Bloom and Stella's eyes shifted to their respective men shocked. Bloom tried not to imagine what would've happened to the rider if he hadn't worn a helmet.
"Clearly he's still walking," Brandon said nonchalantly. "If the force field wasn't there he'd be in worse shape."
"Really?" Stella critiqued. She turned to Sky, "You have to give me a proper dance tonight so don't break any limbs, ok?"
"I'll try," Sky said with a sly smile "Thing is if I want to show this guy what's up, I'm gonna have to go all out."
He motioned towards Riven who rolled his eyes. "I won't go easy on you."
As the group kept walking down the concrete sidewalk, the Trix were hiding in a corner. Stormy and Icy were snacking on cotton candy. They managed to keep themselves hidden from the group. Brandon walked closer to Bloom.
"Will you be rooting for me, Bloom?" he asked with a coy smile. "Not that I'm forcing it! I'm just curious because you're here and stuff and-"
"I will," Bloom said, silencing the boy.
"Yes!" the boy cheered again, making Bloom smile. He then faced Riven who had an annoyed expression on his face. "So, who's gonna be rooting for you, Riven?"
"I don't even need anyone," Riven bragged. "After I'm done all the ladies won't be able to keep their hands off me."
"Well, I'm sick now," Sky joked, clutching his stomach.
Riven rolled his eyes again. He didn't seem to take his teammates seriously at all. It bothered Bloom with how rude he was even though she thought he was cool; his complete disrespect was annoying to her. She remembered dealing with guys like that back on earth and it made her shiver disgusted.
"Trust me, if I wanted one of these Alfea pixies, I could have my pick of the whole litter, and both of you know it," Riven said.
"This is a dumb argument, let's just grab some food," Bloom said, trying to change the subject.
Riven smirked. "In fact, a certain someone's been giving me the eye." He walked over to a flowerpot and picked out a red rose then walked over to Bloom and held out the flower in front of her. "Isn't that right, Bloom?"
Stella and Sky gasped.
Brandon clenched his fist angrily. He looked ready to knock Riven upside the head.
Bloom, on the other hand, burst into fits of laughter. "Please, I wouldn't date you if a gun was near my head."
"Oh, come on, you know you like me. I actually tolerate girls who are this feisty, you'd still need to change collars though," Riven said cockily as he touched the blue heart in the middle of Bloom's collar.
She swatted his hand away, still chuckling.
"Ignore me while I vomit," Bloom replied, sticking out her tongue. "What is with you? You've been an ass since we've met up."
"You call me an ass, I call it character," Riven bragged, looking up at the sky triumphantly. "You like me, admit it."
"The only way I'd date you is if I suffered a severe concussion," Bloom said, irritated. "Musa's crush on you still confuses me."
"That annoying pipsqueak?" Riven insulted, scrunching his face disgusted. "I mean she has good taste."
"Piss off, she's a treasure!" Stella snapped.
Bloom's eyebrows furrowed. She knew Musa was at school already depressed, her mother was gone, and her dad was a shut-in on this day. She wasn't sure what was wrong with Riven, but Bloom didn't want some random guy insulting her friend.
"Treasure, more like a curse," Riven mocked. "Guess who I am, 'Oh, I love everything that's good and happy, don't you?' Annoying shit like that."
"You really should keep your mouth shut Spike, no one disrespects my friend," Bloom said, defending the tiny ball of joy.
"Please, you know how aggravating she is," Riven said, elbowing Bloom in the side with a wink. "You and me, we're the same, and we both know that girl is a pain in the ass."
"Riven, knock it off," Brandon scolded.
"What? It's true, it makes sense she adores me, but not my type either," Riven said casually. "Annoying pest."
Stella shook with anger and looked ready to claw the boy's eyes out again. Sky and Brandon glared at the boy. Riven shrugged in response. Bloom was fuming, thinking again about Musa grieving her mother right now and now she was being called a pest?
She couldn't always handle Musa's energy, but she knew the girl meant well. Musa always seemed to mean well, even if her energy wasn't something Bloom was used to, she still understood that Musa meant well.
Seeing Riven laugh clicked in Bloom's head.
As a couple walked by, one was holding a large cup of soda. She grabbed it casually, much to the couple's shock, but they simply walked away when Stella passed them a couple of bills. She seemed to know what her bestie was about to do.
Bloom removed the top and poured the contents on top of Riven's head with a smirk. Dark liquid dripped down the boy's head and outfit. It made him look like he soiled himself in his pants as well. The group laughed much to the boy's anger.
"Whoops," Bloom said casually.
"You bitch!" Riven snapped. "That was uncalled for!"
"Sheesh, Riven calm down, you're being a pest," Brandon ridiculed, chuckling along with his other friends.
"I was just fucking joking, damn!" Riven said, trying to wipe the sticky liquid off his head. "I thought we were cool Bloom!"
Bloom crossed her arms. "Before or after you insulted my friend?"
"I. WAS. KIDDING!" Riven snapped, clenching his fist. "Learn to take a fucking joke!"
"Jokes are actually funny," Bloom replied. "You were just being an ass."
"You- You're- Fuc-" Riven stammered.
"Are any of these words going to be finished?" Bloom mocked. "Because I don't have all day."
"Fuck you!" Riven snapped before storming off.
The gang chuckled, as Bloom smiled, wiping her hands of imaginary dust, "Let's get some food!"
"I'll pay, especially for you Bloom," Stella said, wrapping her arm around Bloom's shoulder. "He most certainly had that coming."
…
As the gang were having fun, Riven walked alone, drenched in soda, and grumbling under his breath, furious about what happened. He clenched his fist mulling over what revenge he'd take on Bloom and the others.
"I don't need anybody," he grumbled.
He stopped and leaned against a storefront and let out a somber sigh. Nearby, the Trix lurked in the shadows, Icy, and Stormy munching silently on cotton candy.
"You see what I see?" Icy said while chewing on cotton candy. "Oh, my Dragon, this is good!"
"That guy's got a major attitude problem," Darcy noted. "I like him."
"Are you falling in love, Darcy?" Stormy teased.
"Are you surprised?" Icy joined in taking another piece of cotton candy. "She's smitten."
Darcy groaned before snatching the cotton candy from Stormy's hands and tossing it on the ground. For extra measure, she stomped on it. She crossed her arms with a smirk.
"Not cool!" Icy snapped. "Whatever, we've got some trouble to cause. And I think the King of sulk over there is just the thing we need after that little falling out. Let's play that hulking bad boy against the uppity earth girl and see if we can't wreak some major omega."
"It shouldn't be too difficult to get him to come over to our side," Darcy agreed, when she noticed Stormy staring at her with a smirk she added, "Shut the omega up."
Darcy snapped her fingers, glaring at her sisters and in a flash, the ogre appeared in the alleyway.
"What did I do? Your Highness, I hope I didn't do anything wrong," Knut said trembling, but then perked up when saw the sugary confectionery on the ground. "Ooh is that cotton candy?! I only heard about this in fairy tales."
"Go ahead," Darcy said, with a wave of her hand and floating it over to Knut.
Knut took a large bite, not wiping off the gravel, it even added more flavor to the candy. The witches looked disgusted as Knut snacked on the treat with joy.
"So, this is what pink tastes like!" Knut said, intrigued.
"Focus!" Icy snapped, bringing attention back to the matter at hand. "We need to borrow you."
Knut sighed. "I'm guessing it involves me in a human meat suit?" When he was met with surprised stares he shrugged. "It was either that or I do something looking like this and I doubt you want that."
"That's smarter than you usually are," Icy said. "Okay, well yes, the plan is this. We need to get this special helmet to Riven, but there's a risk that they'll know something is up if we do it, especially after our last run-in. So, that's why we're going to disguise you as one of their goofy friends. That Timmy guy, mostly because you both wear glasses." Knut nodded in agreement while chewing on his sugary candy. "You're going to hand it off to Bloom, who's fairly unfamiliar with Timmy. Make sure that she gives it to Riven. Helmet plus Bloom equals Riven. Got it?"
"Yes, my ladies," replied the ogre, mildly insulted.
"Good boy," Darcy said, concentrating. She snapped her fingers and dark shadows covered the ogre's form, fading away to reveal a perfect duplicate of Timmy.
"Hm, I gotta admit, out of all the human meat suits out there, this one ain't too bad," Ogre said, adjusting the spruce green shirt on his body now.
"Yes, yes whatever," Icy said, tossing Knut the helmet that looked like a pair of headphones. Knut looked confused but decided not to ask many questions worried he'd be called an idiot. "Let the plan commence!"
…
Brandon examined his hot dog warily, unsure if he wanted to eat it or study it. Bloom looked on, chuckling. All her friends seemed to share the same expression of confusion and mild disgust. Bloom casually took a bite with a shrug.
"So, it's called a hot dog… why?" Stella asked, smelling it.
"Because it looks like a wiener dog, I don't know," Bloom replied through chews. "Just try it."
The three each took a slow bite and had different reactions. Sky smiled, Stella felt the urge to spit hers out and Brandon wasn't sure what to think. Bloom laughed, taking another bite from her hot dog.
"Damn rich people," she mumbled.
"This is good," Sky said through bites. "I'm glad you picked this, Bloom!"
"Is it supposed to be so chewy, but also rubbery?" Brandon asked.
Bloom shrugged, "Blame the people who make them."
"What's in these anyways?" Stella asked, pulling out her phone and typing her question in the search engine. Bloom was laughing too much to stop her. After a second of searching, the Princess's eyes widened, and spat her hot dog out on the ground, and rubbed her tongue on her hand. "Disgusting!"
Sky took her phone and read the ingredients and history of the hot dog, looked at his food, shrugged, and took another bite.
Brandon laughed as well but shook his head. "I'll just remain ignorant."
Bloom nodded. "It's the best option."
"Okay, well I'm thoroughly revolted, who wants something else, literally anything else? Candy floss maybe?" Stella asked, still trying to get the taste out of her mouth.
"Yeah, candy is the best option after a delicious snack," Sky said, standing up. He didn't take notice of the aggravated look Stella was giving him. He took her hand and led her away towards a cotton candy stand.
"You getting any?" Bloom asked Brandon who had finished his hot dog. He swirled his tongue around adjusting to the weird flavors.
"Nah, I'm good, the hot dog seemed to fill me up," he replied. "If I eat anything else I might vomit on the track."
"I understand," Bloom agreed. "If you don't mind me asking, because I tried this early and got sad responses, is there a reason you didn't head home? I apologize if it's a sad answer."
Brandon laughed. "No need to, you see my parents are terribly busy at this time… well father is, but my mum said she wanted me to have fun today and the racetrack is fun… and again my father made it clear he didn't want any interruptions today… yeah."
"That sucks," Bloom said. "Well, at least you're entering the contest thing, you'll even win."
"Yeah, father will be happy about that," Brandon said, holding his head down.
Bloom shifted awkwardly in her seat unsure of what to do next. After a second, she took his hand and said, "Come on, I'll buy you something, probably a bear to give to your mom. My treat."
"Thank you, Bloom," Brandon said with a small smile.
…
Later after the girls and guys had split up respectively, Bloom and Stella slowly made their way through the crowd, taking in the many sights around them. Stella had been treating most of the day, seeming to want to keep her mind distracted. Bloom took a long sip from her large cup of soda as she took on the many attractions on the street corner.
In one place, a guy was juggling bowling pins which made Bloom chuckle, being reminded of her father back home. Another was eating molten metal, but as she kept walking, she spotted an interesting sight.
"Come on Bloom," Stella said, grabbing hold of Bloom's hand. "The race starts soon."
"I'll be there in a sec," Bloom said, walking closer to the site. Her hand slipped away as she made her way toward a dancer surrounded by people. "I'll meet you there."
Stella shrugged and made her way through the opposite end of the crowd.
Bloom saw her. A young woman, dressed in orange clothes, a butterfly mask obscuring her eyes. Ribbons in her hands as she spun around and shook her hips. Instruments flew in the air around her, played by nothing but the girl's magic, as she kept dancing, her body curved and waved sensually.
"Come to me rhythm! Come to me fire!" the woman sang.
She continued to dance and did acrobatic moves.
"Come to me! Come to me Blair!" the performer said in Bloom's head.
Bloom nearly dropped her drink as the woman whispered, "Come to me, Blair!" The artist found herself entranced staring at the girl, fragments of her strange dream resurfacing in her mind to the point. Soon the woman was gone and replaced by the glowing figure.
"Come find me! Your destiny awaits!"
Bloom took a step forward, her hand moving forward to reach out and touch the woman dancing before her when a voice suddenly startled her back to reality. She dropped her soda cup in shock. The performer returned to her regular state as Bloom took a step back blushing although no one seemed to take notice of her.
"This better be good," she said, turning towards the other person interrupting her daydream. She was met by Timmy.
"Thought you looked familiar," Timmy said as he made his way through the crowd. "Hello."
"Oh, Timmy, right?" Bloom questioned.
The boy nodded.
"How's it going?" Bloom asked.
"Not good," replied the bespectacled boy trying to adjust his footing in the crowd. "I have to head out soon, but I forgot to give Riven this."
Timmy held up a pair of headphones. Bloom cocked her head confused.
"I doubt he could listen to music right now," Bloom said. "The air cycle race is about to start."
Timmy chortled, surprising the girl, he had been rather serious and stoic when she first met him. She guessed he was having a fun time at the event.
"No silly, it's a helmet, see?" Timmy fiddled with the helmet, seeming to look for a button, but then found it and the headphones formed into a helmet then he pressed the same button and it turned back into headphones. "Dragon's breath that's cool…um right?"
"Pretty cool," Bloom said, chuckling. "Well, he's just at-"
Timmy sighed before saying, "I actually have to go soon, and already missed one bus, so could you bring it to him?"
"Uh… sure," Bloom said, taking the helmet.
"Thanks," Timmy said, preparing to walk away, but quickly added, "Oh, it's a surprise, so keep it secret that I made it. Okay?"
"Uh, sure," Bloom agreed. "Happy Rose Day."
"Likewise," replied Timmy as he hurried through the crowd.
"Hm… he's a character," Bloom said, messing with the headphone-like helmet and finding she could close the headphones together to form a ball. She stuffed it in her pocket while saying, "Neat."
…
Minutes later, Bloom finally arrived back at the air cycle racetrack. She looked around before spotting Riven at the starting line. She tried to make her way through the crowd, but she heard a voice call out to her.
She turned around and spotted Stella making her way toward her. The Princess had a smile on her face seeing her bestie.
"Bloomie, where have you been?" the Princess questioned, looking around.
"I was just watching this woman dancing and then you were gone," Bloom said. She raised an eyebrow with a smile. "Why? Were you about to have someone call for me?"
"Yes," Stella said with a sly smile. "I was worried after everything that's transpired so far. Stay with me!"
Stella hugged the girl, making Bloom groan in annoyance. "Before you can keep smothering me, I'll be right back. Gotta give Riven something."
"Ew," Stella said, disgusted, as Bloom walked away. "Be safe!"
Bloom chuckled as she made her way over to Riven. At the racetrack, several people of different ages, genders, and even species tuning their air cycles and engaging each other in pre-race taunting and bragging. Bloom quickly weaved between competitors before spotting Riven's hair and making her way over to him.
"Riven!" she called.
Riven paused about to put his helmet on. He cowered, putting up a hand. "Oh Dragoon, back up, I just got the soda out of my hair!"
"Relax, I'm here to give you something," Bloom said, pulling the ball helmet out of her pocket.
"Nice try," Riven scoffed. "I bet you're here to brag about how Brandon's going to win."
"Just take the damn thing!" Bloom exclaimed, opening the item to reveal the headphones.
Riven reluctantly took the helmet, with a raised left eyebrow. He pushed the button and it formed into a helmet.
"Nice, black, sleek, okay. This is a good gift," Riven said, with a small smile. "I respect this apology."
Bloom rolled her eyes, keeping to Timmy's promise. "Yeah, let's call it that. Also, here."
Bloom dug into the other pocket of her black jeans and pulled out a piece of paper marked, Buy one, get one free sundae and passed it over to Riven.
"A coupon, where's your number?" Riven jested, chuckling.
"It's a coupon, and nothing more," Bloom replied. "Just enjoy your sundae, with someone other than me, Romeo."
"I knew you liked me," Riven said, playfully punching Bloom on the arm. "Seriously though, I appreciate this. Hope you'll be rooting for me."
"Sorry, Brandon already paid me," Bloom joked. "Also, if you could let him win, that would be great."
"I make no promises," Riven said, crossing his fingers. "Now get out of here, you got a loser to root for."
Bloom smirked before walking away. Brandon had been watching from a distance, taking deep breaths. Bloom waved his way and gave him a thumbs up, but he felt his jealousy take over him. He still waved with a nervous smile.
The prince took notice of his friend's anger and sighed. "She's not yours, mate. She's free to choose who she wants."
"Shut up," Brandon snapped, even though he knew his friend was right.
Outside, a commentator in a sleek black leather jacket hovered above the crowd on a floating platform, listing off all the sponsors that had helped make the race possible. The usual shtick. Big screens surrounded buildings and gave everyone a great view of the race, where the twenty competitors were making their way to the starting line.
Bloom made her way over to Stella who was waiting for her. The girl elbowed her friend playfully in the hip.
"So, what did you give that cretin? A good luck kiss?" teased Stella.
"Ha-ha. I ran into Timmy. He fixed Riven's helmet and asked me to pass it off to him," Bloom said. She gave Stella a coy smile while staring at Brandon. "Also gross, my eyes… are on someone else."
"You big flirt, you!" Stella said, beaming. "Although that's weird, I could've sworn Timmy left."
"He said he missed a bus and had to hurry," Bloom said with a shrug.
"Hate when that happens," replied the Princess with a nod. "How kind of him."
…
As the race was about to start, Icy, Stormy, and Knut stood at the edge of a roof. The two witches were snacking on funnel cake while Knut partook in more cotton candy he fished from the trash. They observed the race below while Darcy was missing as part of the plan.
"Do you think this is going to work?" Stormy asked, mid-chew from her funnel cake.
"First, stop hogging all the cake!" Icy said, snatching the plate. "Second, I have faith in Darcy's planning. Besides, even if we fail, it'll be hard to track it back to us."
"Good," Stormy said, somewhat satisfied. "Because I can't deal with another week without magic or worse."
"You have to admit I did pretty good today, my acting skills are becoming real good," Knut bragged.
"You're still a failure, but every dog has its day," Icy replied.
Knut's shoulders slumped in response.
Below on the racetrack, the announcer bellowed into his microphone. "LADIES, GENTLEMEN, AND EVERYONE ELSE. WELCOME TO THE TWENTY-SIXTH ANNUAL MAGIX ROSE DAY RACE. TODAY, WE HAVE A FINE SELECTION OF COMPETITORS. AND I THINK THE COUNTDOWN IS STARTING".
Above the racetrack, a light-up blinking sign started counting down. A tense atmosphere descended over the crowd. With a loud beep, the race started, all competitors shooting off down the road.
"NUMBER NINE IS IN THE LEAD, CLOSELY FOLLOWED BY NUMBER FIVE," the commentator's voice boomed from the loudspeakers.
"I'm curious," started Bloom as she and Stella eagerly watched the race, people around them shouting in excitement. "If this is the annual race, what was that race earlier today?"
"I asked Sky that as well," Stella said, chuckling. "Apparently the race goes in different intervals. Air cycle racers are divided into tiers based on how good they are. Earlier were the worst racers. They usually don't attract a big audience, mostly people who love crashes, but everyone starts somewhere. Right now, in the middle, tonight is the big league, usually involving people who live off air cycle racing. So, your boy toy is one of the best and so is mine."
"Shut up," Bloom said, shoving the girl playfully. She tried to hide her blush, but Stella simply laughed, noticing her bestie's red cheeks. "I'm surprised you could listen to Sky without trying to kiss him."
"It was hard," Stella said with a wink. Her smile quickly faded as her eyes turned back to the race. "That prat is in the lead."
"I'm guessing that's Riven," Bloom said with a chuckle.
"NUMBER TWELVE IS TAKING THE LEAD, BUT SIX IS CLOSING IN ON HIM AND TRYING TO OVERTAKE HIM. THEY'RE REALLY BATTLING FOR FRONT POSITION NOW," sounded the announcer. "IN THE BACK, SEVEN IS TRYING TO... OH DEAR, HE ACCIDENTALLY SWERVED INTO THIRTEEN. THEIR AIR CYCLES ARE OUT OF... OH, THAT'S A NASTY FALL. THEY'LL FEEL THAT ON IN THE MORNING!"
Down on the racetrack, Riven found himself in the lead, a victorious smile on his face behind the dark visor of his helmet. He looked into his rearview mirror and noted Brandon behind him, followed by an unknown racer and Sky. "Dream on, Princey," said Riven to himself as he revved up his air cycle. "Neither you nor your lackey's winning today."
They passed through a big curve, when Brandon tried to overtake him, but Riven simply allowed the momentum of the turn to let his air cycle glide into the path of Brandon, he revved up his bike and spurted up some dirt in squire boy's face.
"BRAVE MOVE FROM TWELVE. BODY BLOCKING IS AN EXCELLENT WAY TO DENY YOUR OPPONENT, BUT IF THEY DON'T SLOW DOWN IN TIME."
"Wow, he's actually keeping the lead," Bloom said, keeping her eye on Brandon. She silently cheered for him when Stella wasn't looking. "I think Goldi might get back in the lead though."
"Please, Sky is definitely going to win," Stella said confidently. "That one rider behind Riven is doing a good job on the lead though. COME ON SKY!"
"Yelling isn't necessary," Bloom said, ringing a finger through her ear. As she said that Brandon rode closer to Riven, and they were a few inches away from each other. "COME ON GOLDI!"
Stella chuckled.
"Shut up," Bloom mumbled.
Riven noticed the prince gaining on him, trying to get past him on the opposite side of Brandon. He briefly wondered if they were trying to help each other out or if Sky was just using this as a golden opportunity. He started speculating how he could keep both of his competitors from overtaking him, especially considering how close they were getting to the finish line when a pain pierced his head like a red-hot lance.
He screamed and reached for his helmet, trying desperately to get it off. It felt like his eyeballs were burning. The helmet started to spark like electric currents being brought together. Intense pressure built up around his head and his teeth ached with the pain of a thousand tooth pulls. He screamed in agony at the pain surging through his skull, all thoughts of the race gone in the haze of pure agony.
"What's happening to Riven?" exclaimed Bloom panicking.
"I don't know!" shouted Stella back, eyes wide with worry.
The magenta-haired warrior's air cycle started to wobble from side to side without its rider's control.
"RIVEN!" yelled Sky, trying to get his buddy's attention, but he knew that from the way Riven was screaming under his helmet, there was no way he was paying any attention. His air cycle swerved to the side, bashing into Sky's. His air cycle barged into the barrier, making him lose control as it started tipping to the side. He fell from it and landed harshly on the force field, layers of cloth and skin torn off as he skidded across the road.
"SKY!" Stella exclaimed tears in her eyes.
"IT LOOKS LIKE SOMETHING'S GONE HORRIBLY WRONG WITH TWELVE AND SIX. OFFICIALS ARE ALREADY MOVING IN TO AID HIM. OH NO," yelled the announcer.
Blind with pain, Riven barged straight into a fire hydrant that hadn't been covered by the barrier, breaking his bike, and launching him into the air. Brandon stared in horror as his rival flew through the air like a ragdoll. Then, another racer shot past him. With surprising skill, the racer hurried along the track and grabbed Riven before he was smashed against the asphalt.
"I CAN'T BELIEVE IT. NUMBER TWO JUST SAVED TWELVE'S LIFE. WHAT AN INCREDIBLE STUNT!" bellowed the commentator relieved. The crowd eagerly cheered at the amazing feet pulled off.
Both Bloom and Stella jumped onto the racetrack as the barriers were lowered, medics and other people rushing to the aid of Riven. Rider two quickly pulled Riven's helmet off.
"A heart as soft as a velvet glove. Open your eyes and fall in love," the rider said, touching his head and causing him to stop screaming.
"What... what happened?" asked the magenta-haired warrior groggily, the fog that had enveloped his brain lifting. "Who are you? You saved me."
The rider calmly removed their helmet revealing Darcy in a blue, Red Fountain suit and her glasses missing.
"I gotta admit, riding without my glasses was difficult, but worth it," she said with a smile. She then looked into Riven's eyes and brushed her fingers through his hair. "Sorry I didn't heal you last time."
"That's- The- You're really purdy," Riven said mystified. He shook his head. "I mean, we're cool."
"You were almost a goner there," Darcy said, helping Riven up. "Good thing I caught you in time. The name's Darcy."
As everyone rushed to Riven to check on him, Stormy and Icy looked on, seeing their sister flirt with Riven with a sly smile. Stormy stuck a finger in her mouth while saying, "Gag me."
"Took the words right out of my mouth," Icy said, chuckling.
"Claws off, witch!" Bloom said, shoving Darcy aside. "What did you do to him?"
"Do to him?" Darcy questioned with confusion. "All I did was heal him."
"Yeah, lay off," Riven said, coming to Darcy's defense. "If it weren't for her, I'd have a serious concussion or worse."
"Yeah, looks like someone tampered with your helmet," Darcy said, looking over Riven's helmet with intrigue.
"I HAVE JUST BEEN INFORMED THAT BECAUSE SOMEBODY TAMPERED WITH TWELVE'S HELMET, THIS RACE HAS SADLY BEEN DECLARED NULL AND VOID. NONE THE LESS, LET'S GIVE A BIG HAND TO TWELVE FOR HIS AMAZING RACING AND TWO FOR SAVING HIS LIFE," blared the commentator. Immediately thunderous applause erupted from the audience.
"Thank you, thank you," Darcy said, waving at her adoring audience. "You still would've won though, stud."
"I mean- I mean like- You know it," Riven stammered, pounding his fist together. "Riven, by the way."
"Nice, even your name sounds, just… wow," Darcy flirted, causing Riven to blush while smiling.
"Nice try, Darcy," Bloom said glaring at the girl. "What did you do to his helmet?"
"Um… I'm not sure what you're getting at. I'm the reason he's fine," Darcy said, offended. "Damn, what's your problem?"
"Yeah, if anything you're the one who gave me the helmet," Riven said, he then gasped. "You gave me it so your little Brandon could win!"
"Wow," Darcy said, feigning shock. "That's so messed up."
"Excuse me!" Bloom snapped. "For your information, Timmy gave me the helmet to give to you. Something must've gone wrong that he hadn't noticed."
"Timmy?" Brandon questioned. "Bloom, Timmy left this morning, like early, early. He hasn't been here all day."
"What?!" Bloom exclaimed. "But… he's the one…"
"So, who gave you the helmet then?" Darcy asked, looping her arm through Riven's with a smile. "Good thing it didn't scorch your face. You're hotter than I remember."
"You don't have to tell me the obvious," Riven said, chuckling. "But seriously, nice try Bloom, now tell the truth."
Bloom clenched her fist before shouting, "I didn't tamper with your helmet, clearly that bitch tricked me!" She pointed towards Darcy as a few onlookers gasped in shock. "You guys, you have to believe me! They sent a- A Timmy illusion or something to give me the helmet so I'd give it to him."
"Timmy illusion?" Riven laughed. "Wow, you must've hit your head too, to come up with that bullshit excuse."
"I'm telling the truth!" Bloom said, grabbing Riven by the shoulders. "You gotta believe me."
Riven smirked before shoving Bloom and knocking her into Brandon. The squire boy's eyes narrowed as he grabbed the girl. He stood her back up and walked over to Riven. In an instant, he punched him across the face. Riven nearly toppled over, but was caught by Darcy.
"You don't hit a lady in front of me," Brandon said calmly. "Now apologize."
"Squire boy, always sticking up for a bitch," Riven insulted, gaining another set of gasps from the audience and some "oohs" and "aahs". He tossed the helmet at Bloom, and it hit her in the chest causing her to wince in pain. Brandon walked over to him ready to punch him again, but Bloom grabbed his arm and pulled him back.
Darcy couldn't help but hide her smirk at the melee.
"You're all in on this, aren't you?" Riven accused. "I make one fucking joke and you ruin my chances at winning! I thought we were kind of on good terms. Fuck all of you!"
Riven gave all of them the middle finger before his fist clenched as he glared at his rivals and former friends. His face was bright red and looked like he was ready to explode, but simply backed away. It looked like he was going to cry.
"Forget it, I'm sick of you, guys! I'm requesting a transfer to a different squad!" Riven shouted before storming off, but he ended with, "I'm gone!"
"Riven, wait. I'm coming with you," Darcy called, smiling victoriously over her shoulder at the others.
The crowd dispersed once the tension was gone leaving Bloom and others behind to stew over what just transpired. Bloom crossed her arms.
"I swear to God I didn't cause his helmet to glitch out," she said, aggravated. "You believe me, right?"
"Of course," Brandon reassured her. "You wouldn't do something like that. I know you wouldn't."
Stella placed a comforting hand on Bloom's shoulder. "Those witches must want something with Riven," she surmised.
Bloom looked up in the sky and spotted two figures on the roof of a building. Icy and Stormy stared down at her and even though she couldn't see their expressions she could feel the smirks on their faces as Stormy waved at her arrogantly.
"Looks like they're pretty close by too," she pointed in their direction, but soon they were gone in a flash. "I hate them."
"We all do," Sky said, sighing. "We all do."
"Let's just head back home," Stella said, her shoulders slumped. "I'm tired and disappointed."
"What about the dance?" Sky asked, placing his arm around her hip.
"I don't care anymore, I just want to rest," Stella replied somberly. "I mean I could go for a double cherry sundae."
"Food and then home," Sky said with a small smile. "I can agree on that."
Sky and Stella walked away, hips together as they walked. Brandon started to walk, but Bloom grabbed his arm and told him, "Thanks… for defending me. I really appreciate that."
"It's what a gentleman does," Brandon said, holding out his arm. Bloom chuckled and looped her arm around his. Although she just went through hell a few moments ago, the light seemed to brighten when she was with Brandon and her friends.
Not the best start or middle to the holiday, but it had a good ending.
…
A/N:
You made it to the end!
Wow, that was… INSANE! I can't believe Riven! Lol and mind you he's nicer here, I made him easier to deal with (IMO) and he's still an ass. Leave Musa alone Riven! And Musa, my sweet baby Musa, we must protect her at all costs! Lol.
Seriously though, this was a fun chapter to write and I hope you guys really enjoyed it, thanks for reading, and see you guys next month!
And again, if this longer chapter format is not your cup of tea, just tell me and I'll think about changing it back.
Peace!