Chapter 12: Plans
The sun slowly rose from the horizon as morning came, Stepping into the stadium Macbeth inspected the place before the training can get started with the approval of Headmaster Saladin and another teacher named Cadatorta wanting to see these how Keyblade wielders-in-training use their abilities from his training. The reason he decided to do it this time of morning would be best time to start the day, discussing his plans to get both sides to work together and improve their skills to defend themselves. He at first thought the teachers would be against it, but Cadatorta was supportive of it with the Grimm threat and Tezzeret loose in the Magic Dimension.
Macbeth studied the arena to be certain it was set for the training and enough space to avoid damage around them. The warm rays of the morning sun greeted him and much clearer to see.
"Morning, Macbeth." He turned around to see Codatorta coming out of the building, he was a burly, gruff looking person with dark brown hair slicked back to reveal his bushy eyebrows, a goatee that is attached to his sideburns along his jawline. He wears a dusty, grey shirt that zips up the front and has no sleeves, a darker blue belt, khaki-colored pants, blue boots, and silver gauntlets. "Everything seems to be good here."
Macbeth nodded. "Aye, nothing wrong with it and should be a perfect spot to teach those rookies of yours a true combat against a Veteran. They still asleep?"
"As if without a care in the world." Codatorta shrugged his shoulders. "You didn't tell them the time to be here?"
"Perhaps, but that would ruin the fun." Gave a soft chuckle over a devious sense of humor, even the head teacher gave him a smirk.
"Oh, like the sound of that. So how will they wake up then?"
"Should be up in a moment when you hear the loud noises to get them out of bed." Macbeth said.
"This place is perfect for my people to settle, plenty of land for us and the oceans are beautiful, even the sky as well." A young man sat on a rock looking up, his face was hidden under the casting shadow of the leafs and gazing into the horizon. "And I think I already have a name for this place that be our new home.
An older voice spoke out. "You have? What will be the name of our new home, young one?"
He smiles and stared into the setting sun. "Something that has a meaning, to last long and a beginning of one's journey to start their own."
"It better be then the last suggestions you offered."
"Very funny! I thought it through and starting today it's name... will be-"
The dream came to a sudden stop by the sound of... bagpipes?
Taren's eyes shot open wide and threw himself up out of his bed, dragging the bed sheets along. Ben jumped out when startled by the noise that woke them up. They find Genie dressed in a scottish get up with the bagpipes he was playing. "I knew taking pagpipe lessons would come in handy."
"The hell? Why give us this sort of wake up call when we got a clock." Taren muttered, rubbing his eyes.
Ben looked at his clock and realised it was way too early, not surprising for how many times they had to get up. "Don't tell me, Macbeth's got some training for us?"
"Now, now up and about, the others should be up by now to join."
"Others?" Both said at the same time but before they could ask Genie flicked his fingers and disappeared.
The two keyblade wielders found themselves fully dressed and round up in the arena, they find Macbeth and also one of the teachers, Codatorta present. They were also surprise find the Specialists arrived in their normal clothes, looking tired too.
"You guys are here too?" Ben asked in surprise.
"Don't tell us you guys got involved in this as well." Taren wondered, but if they did... well, best hoping they make it out in one piece.
"Something loud and almost blew my eardrums." The prince muttered as he was trying to smack his hand against his ear for some reason.
Brandon yawned and didn't bother to figure out why they were here. "Guess you could say that and Riven complaining about some 'annoying bird'."
"I'm telling you, a stupid bird came out of nowhere and danced about with that annoying sound it made." Riven exclaimed.
"Yeah, sure Riven." Sky responded, not believing him fully but made the keyblade wielders confused, both turned to Genie who had no clue either and shrugged his shoulders.
"Nice of you all to come here, bright an early!" Macbeth called for their attention then let them be distracted further on.
Riven snorted and wasn't happy about it. "Like you gave us a choice." Muttering under his breath, but didn't go unnoticed by the trainers.
"What was that, Riven?" Codatorta dared him to repeat it.
"Nothing, sir!" Riven responded fast.
Macbeth decided to cut in to draw their attention. "The reason for this is to begin training both Specialists and Keyblade wielders to work together like you did that day in the swamp. But your not ready to face powerful foes like Tezzeret for example."
The teens didn't forget about how he easily took on three wielders who were well trained and a powerful enemy to control monsters like the Grimm.
"And after some talking with Saladin, he's allowed me to train you five included alongside Codatorta who will overwatch your training under school grounds." When the boys hear this offer from Macbeth, the Specialists couldn't help but smile and grin that they could get better and help their new friends.
"Now this I'm glad to hear this morning." Sky said.
However Taren couldn't but think somethings up the way he easily offered to train them. "Then why do I feel like it feels too good?"
"Maybe you didn't get any breakfast?" Genie thought.
Ben shook his head. "No, I'm with him, there must be more to this."
Macbeth gave a soft chuckle. "Nothing gets past you two. Yes, you're correct. Saladin wasn't so pleased about the failed mission to deliver the Troll for questioning, so I told him to give you a few days and decide a special punishment."
"You boys didn't think you be off the hook, I went along with it and thought it be a perfect timing." The head-teacher said with his arms crossed as he frowns. "Here's the deal: you face your opponent and if you win, no punishment be given."
"Guess it sounds fair, sir. But what about Taren and Ben?" Timmy asked.
"They weren't part of your assignment so this doesn't go for them." Macbeth told him.
Feeling like it didn't seem fair to them to be out of it since the Specialists helped them out earlier, Ben forward. "Uh, actually, I think it would be fair if we were part of it as well." Hearing his suggestion surprised the Specialists to willingly share the punishment.
"You certain about this, Ben?" Macbeth asked him.
Taren sighed and knew his best friend would think of doing a noble act, plus it would not look good on him being the only one out of it. "I think he does, Macbeth. Alright, fine, drag me in it too."
Macbeth smiled and pleased to see them making efforts of a noble gesture. "Good for you to take part like a team player, lad. But I think we should let the Specialists test their skills against their opponent."
"You wont have time to get your uniforms on, in real life you need to be prepared for anything." Codatorta told them.
Timmy raised his hand before asking a question that the team were thinking. "So... who will be our opponent, Ben and Taren?"
Both teachers chuckled until Macbeth was the first to speak. "Oh no... that's too obvious since they're still students." His face turned to a devious grin and a face that made the boys shiver. "I'm your opponent."
Both Wielders mentally gulped and both had the same idea. 'This won't go well.'
However, Riven seems to find it funny and laughed. "That's it? Good one, no offence but I think we would easily take you on at once."
Taren leaned next to Ben and Genie to whisper. "This won't end well."
Genie nodded and looked at the script in his hand with a pair of reading glasses. "You're not wrong there, T, and what the author has in mind I can't say."
Macbeth crossed hsi arms across his chest and smirked at the hot headed teen. "Really? Alright then if you so confident. I will challenge you five at once. Waddya think?" Asking the fellow trainer if it seems fair.
"Hmm." Stroking his bearded chin. "Think so, just don't bruise them too much since they need to complete the chores with both hands."
The blonde squire wasn't sure about this from the stories the wielders told them about and had a bad feeling about this. "Um, maybe we should think this through."
"Like I'm going to back down on this and show him what I'm made up, I'll bet blondie would love to nurse her prince charming back to health." Riven mocked the brunette who heard him.
"Look we gotta work together like we did against the Grimm, this is serious!"
Timmy nodded and agreed with the prince. "He's right. We don't know his abilities if he's been part of the training for Taren, Ben and Mal." Feeling like perhaps one of them would sit out and learn his skills and abilities it could give the others understanding, if only he had asked the Keyblade bearers about him before they got themselves involved.
Riven turned around and about to respond when he noticed both Taren and Ben, including their blue weird fella wearing a spirit foam in his hand. "HEY! What are you two doing all the way out there! I thought you be helping us!"
Taren waved his hand out to them. "He said we can sit this one out and make a clear space for you guys to show what you got! Don't worry, we're supporting you all the way! WAY... WAY behind!"
Genie changed into a cheerleader and did some poses.
Riven gritted his teeth and glared at them. "Those son of a-" His sentence was cut short when Macbeth launched himself at the teen, throwing his fists directly at him, forcing Riven to block in defence. "Hey! What's the..."
"Never take your eyes off your opponent!" Macbeth stated and continued to throw his fists until Riven caught it and tried to throw a kick to his side, but the older male saw it coming and jumped back to make a distance. "Well, least you almost had me, come on now I thought you were the specialists I heard that took on the Grimm. Unless you just let the others do the hard work." Pulls out a metallic rod out of his belt and pressed a switch with his thumb, causing it to extend into a rod, twirling it in his hands ready for a fight, but seems his opponents were without any weapons to defend themselves.
"Uh, , don't you think we should need our phantoblades." The prince asked him, only to duck from the coming side-swipe, catching them off guard.
"You're right, but in the face of battle, you won't have a choice but to defend yourselves!" Macbeth stated as a way to teach them a thing or tow about hand-to-hand combat, forcing them to back off and when Brandon tried to tackle him from behind while Sky managed to sneak up behind him for a surprise, alongside Timmy who watched carefully to find an opening.
"Trying to surprise me?" Macbeth questioned them, wondering what would happen next.
"That." Brandon decided to try keeping him busy and this time jump up to dodge the next strike aimed for his feet, but this time he caught it between his ankles and kicked it out of his hand. "Distracting you." Gave a confident smirk and hoisted it in his hand and pointed the tip at his upper chest.
Cadotorta watched and so far impressed how Brandon disarmed his opponent, but feels this was too easy as he noticed the grin on Macbeth's expression. Turned his gaze at the other two transfer students who seem unaffected and watching the Specialists try to subdue him.
"Impressive, young prince." Looks at each corner of his eyes to see Riven on the left, Timmy on the right and no doubt Brandon was behind him. They managed to cut off his chances of escape...however. They were not dealing with an amateur. Swiftly grabbed the pole to spin to the side and threw his left leg up and swatted him to the side, forcing the brunette to groan and clutch his side. Easily used turned the tables on him when he thought to try using his pole against him.
Brandon and Timmy ran towards him and try to tackle him, but Macbeth threw his pole in between the Squire's legs to make him loose his balance and fallen over. Then ducked and threw him over his back, but Timmy managed to tuck and rolled on the ground to avoid getting injured. Ready for another chance to tackle him as Riven went straight for the offensive, watching the hotheaded specialist throw his fists at him but Macbeth easily dodges them moving his head and swiftly brushes them with his hand. "Is that it? Hardly a challenge."
Riven was getting frustrated with the amused smirk on the old man's face and mocking them like it was some game. "Something you find funny? This is suppose to be a fight and you just seek to make us like idiots! FIght seriously" He exclaimed and pulled his fist back to deliver a hard blow to the face. He thought he had a direct hit, until his hand suddenly stopped and was held firmly in the old man's grasp. Riven tried to pull it away but found it stuck and then noticed his face turned to a frown.
Ben spotted it and knew it wasn't good, even Taren cringed and believes Riven will not last long in the spar now.
Macbeth narrowed his eyes at the magenta haired teen who couldn't help feels like he might have made a mistake. "You want me to fight serious? Well then." He threw his spared fist towards Riven but slipped out of his grasp and tumbled backwards when trying to dodge the coming punches aimed towards him, but then he realised how fats and strong they feel within inches, he was now fighting more aggressive and too fast for him to predict. Too focused on his face when he failed to see one of his boots colided towards his stomach, forcing him back a few feet and couched up some air by the blow.
Timmy couldn't believe how he easily took sown their toughest member in one blow, but seems as though he was hardly given his all in the fight. Not able to face him and decided to wisely give with his hands up. Macbeth noticed and nodded in approval. "A wise decision, not every battle can be won."
The specialists rushed over to check on him but thankfully he seems slightly bruised despite that strong kick Macbeth used.
"You're fine, lad, just a slight bruise all because I held back the full strength, way back." Macbeth said to him in a firm tone.
Codatorta seen enough and walked over. "Think they got the idea, Macbeth." Turns to the group with the keyblade wielders joining them. "As you got the clear idea of a real battle, there will be times when you will fight a strong and more dangerous foes who will not hesitate to take a life. Being a Specialist isn't about gaining fame or glory, its about doing the right thing and protect innocent people from danger. With the Grimm investing our worlds, we need all the help we can get to stop them or lose everything and everyone we love."
Listening to his words and begin to understand for the rough training, perhaps also why the keybladers were so determined to get stronger and stop Tezzeret. Brandon nodded and stepped forward. "I said I wanted to help and I mean it, got a family back home and willing to put my life on the line to stop them."
Nodding in approval to Brandon's words and Macbeth feels this may take a slow effort to form a strong team to improve their skills, and perhaps get Riven to improve his behaviour otherwise it will get him in trouble.
"I think maybe we could perhaps do some more work on our weapons in order to make them more effective against the Grimm's white armor plating." Timmy thought as he remembered how the Deathstalker used it's armor as a defence mechanism and other descriptions Taren and Ben descripted the other types of Grimm known as the Ursa and Beowolves they encountered.
"You can do that AFTER your punishment since you failed the challenge." Codatorta reminded them of the bet they made.
Riven groaned. "Oh, great. So what's our punishment?"
"You'll find out. Now get some breakfast the lot of you, got a lot of work to do." The Head-teacher told them, for what they had in store for them it will be a harsh but promising training for the lot of them.
Mal groans softly in bed as it was now morning and her body was soar and aching from recent training, they spend the few days training since the battle in the swamp to improve their skills and now with the Specialists offered to help thinking it was nothing new, it be interesting to see them in bruises from Macbeth. Pulls the sheets over her head and groans in annoyance. "Ugh, not morning, please say it isn't."
"Come on, might as well get up." She hears Mirta call out to her, pokes her head out to see her coming out of the bathroom drying herself off while in her bathrobes. Reluctantly agreed as she had stuff to do, tossed the sheets away and climbs out of bed to get washed up for breakfast.
"Luckily it's the weekend tomorrow, it has been exhausting." Mal had learnt much about curses and spells witches would often use for combat. Despite being new around Mal managed to gain good praises from most the teachers on her skills, especially in the arts of defence against dark arts. What she learnt was witches can gain the ability to fly using magic to levitate them without the need of wings to make a 'fair' combat against their rivals, the fairies. She wasn't certain if she can pull it off but maybe worth a shot but that's only until the freshmen understand the limit of their powers.
She will have to keep a close eye on the Trix for the others without blowing her cover. So far they seem to have a reputation in Cloud Tower, feared ad Respected by almost all students for their talents, could be a slight problem of trusting some and getting along with the Trix is a big NO if they recognise her, she couldn't stand being near them anyway. Mal knew for certain they had something to do with the fake troll the Specialists tried to capture and failed, so there are two possible theories: they casted a spell to duplicate the Troll before it was killed or.. there may be another member they don't know about yet.
They'll have to keep their guard up and find out where Tezzeret is hiding before they find the flame. As for her new roommate, Mirta, she started to get along with her and not like the majority of the witches who try to act all high and mighty. Seems a little timid or nervous but nothing to worry about, yet she never did had much friends such as her own kind who are known to cause trouble... Herself included. But hate having to keep her secret from others like Mirta, if anyone found out they would be in danger.
Rubbing her eyes before making her way to the bathroom to freshen up and finish on some studies, She pulls the curtains aside and find a pink feathered bird scrubbing himself in the bathtub wearing a cap, when he took noticed of Mal, he acted shy and embarrassed in front if her when being in the bath.
"Oh, sorry!" Quickly apologies in embarrassment and about to make her leave for the bathroom when she suddenly stopped and thought for a sec, grabbed the curtains to make certain... only to find the bird not there. She didn't know what was going on and check to see if that strange bird was hiding someplace. 'I could've swore it was right here just then.' "So many strange things since we got here." She said to herself and takes the shower while it was running.
After she was done and dressed for breakfast as Mirta waited for her until she received a call on her phone. "Hey, I'll get this call and catch up to ya."
The maroon haired teen nodded. "No prob, I'll meet up with Lucy and see ya later."
nce she left Mal answered her phone and surprised to find out it was Ben, not sure why she felt a little nervous answering the phone to answer but feels it might be important to call her this time around. "Hello?" Almost lost her focus but spoke clearly as she could.
"Hey, it's Ben. Er.. sorry for the sudden call but just thought to see how you were doing." Hearing him clearin his throat on the other end.
Raised an eyebrow and curious to know why would he asked about her well being. "Well, why wouldn't I be?" Tries to sound as though she didn't care, but strangely feels appreciate for it.
"Well, just thought I ask before we had out, been training with the Specialists this morning... by Macbeth." Ben told her, causing her to snicker at the thought of them getting their butts kicked.
"Oh, you did warn them to wear protection right? I would love to see the look on their faces. Especially Riven's if he went up against him." Oh, how much she would love to see the look on his face and take snapshots of it.
"Think they got the basic idea, Genie will watch out for any trouble, Riven might have gotten the hard lesson from Macbeth about fighting serious. But how things at Cloud Tower?"
"So far our favourite witches have been quiet, not sure whats been going on since I was given more time to study from the old man's permission to practice my magic. But thankfully it is what we would call the best day of the week. Friday. And hello to the weekend." Mal was eagerly looking forward to.
"Yeah, hopefully we get some bit of break to rest up. Have to get going now, and eh, be careful not to let the Trix find out you're there." Almost sounded like he was concerned to her, but possibly her imagination and took it for granted.
"Not to worry they don't recognise me and won't say what I look like." She said, but almost sounded like a tease with a grin on her face. When she suddenly realised what she did, the young witch felt embarrassed and flushed. "Gotta go by!" She hung up before he could say anything. Remained silent and brought her hands to her face and groaned, running her hands over to her blonde hair. "What the hell? Why did I do that?"
Since meeting both Taren and Ben, she usually kept things to herself and slowly comes to regard them as friends, well she enjoys messing with Taren for the laugh of using some mischief, respects his determination and confidence. But for Ben, the way he always helps them out and smiles at her made this odd feeling inside her, unable to know what it is but since that night at the dance it she suddenly had this growing interest in him. But she dismissed such thoughts and shook her head. "Oh come on, get your head out of the clouds, not as if some prince like him be into someone like me."
Frowned softly and sighed, thinking she was getting too distracted over such silly thoughts of a guy like him be into her. If he or anyone knew of her secret... not wanting to think about it right now. Fully dressed and checked herself before she leaves the room for breakfast and then some class, wanting to fill her stomach with food and take her mind off the current things.
Going through a lot of work and taking notes, conjuring spells until she was finished. Now build up an appetite for food she heads off to cafeteria and seeing every student having their meals, her eyes narrowed at the Trix up above in their own table, no doubt plotting a next plan to get the ring. She spotted Mirta who finished from her studies and her friend Lucy sitting with her. Carrying her tray to the table and sat down. "Wonder what's up with them, seem broody today." Mal asked.
"Not sure, but I heard someone broke into our school the other day." Mirta said.
Lucy didn't like that and narrowed her eyes. "If they did Griselda would teach them a lesson they won't forget."
Uncertain who it was but must be pretty insane to walk into a dangerous place like Cloud Tower. "Well, hate to be those idiots." Mal mumbled as she took a bite of her toast and takes a sip of her juice.
"We CAN'T Let them get away with this!" Obviously Stormy's voice.
Obviously someone must've caused some trouble for them, woul've enjoyed the looks on their faces.
"We'll destroy their beloved Alfea, that ought to teach them a less. Those fairies have got to learn to stay away from our turf."
Hearing Icy's plot caught Mal's attention when said Alfea, the only people who the Trix hate more would be... the Winx Club. The thought of it was too bizarre, as if the Winx would do something so reckless to get in trouble by breaking in. But what did they do to tock them off this bad?
"Why do you hate them so much?" Snapped out of her thoughts to hear Mirta ask them a question. "The fairies aren't that bad after all." The blonde wielder could see the frustrated look on Icy's face.
"And who is the pert little thing that uttered these words?"
Mirta felt intimdated by her glare but didn't want be back down for what she had to say. "All I meant to say was, I think maybe... we should get along."
Hearing her suggestion and mentally surprised Mal to hear this from her, never did asked about her opinion on witches and thought she shared some of their beliefs, but... to find out Mirta thinking both sides try to understand each other? but it seems the Trix have a different matter and not the Agreeing kind. They started to laugh and shortly everyone started to join to gang up on Mirta who tried to hold back the tears when made fun off, Lucy remained silent but Mal glared at them as she couldn't believe how immature they were acting COmpared to the things, Mal had done, she would probably be considered the mature one around here.
"Did you hear that? Mirta wants ti be friends with the fairies." Stormy said to mock her. "Well, well, how quaint. Would you like a sparkle of fairy dust in your soup?"
The Trix continued to laugh until Darcy spoke. "Why don't you keep your mouth shut, girl?" Summoning her magic to create a dark orb appeared before the terrified Mirta. Mal didn't like where this was going and before she could call out Mirta, the thing swooped in towards Mirta and engulfed her head. watching her struggle and unable to breath while all the others do was laugh like it was some game to them.
"Mirta!" Mal/Lilith cried out as Lucy didn't know what to so but Mirta's roommate didn't stand around to do nothing when she decided to step in without exposing her keyblade, her hand glowed in a purple colour and managed to pull the purple sphere from Mirta and in her hand. The students ceased their laughter and saw what the transfer student did, and she looked pissed at Darcy. "Here, I think this belongs to YOU!" Threw her hand to command it back to her as if it were a dodgeball.
The Trix ceased their laughter and took cover from the blast, they stared at the transfer student and heard about her being a clever and strong freshman. "You are so gonna regret that, blondie." Darcy narrowed her glare at the blonde.
The tensions between them started to build up and everyone was silent to se how this will turn out between Lilith and the Trix.
"Alright that is enough!"
Everyone turned to see a frustrated Headmistress Griffin entering the cafeteria, narrowed her stern gaze at the students. "What is all this mess, can't you think of other ways to amuse yourselves? Now everybody finish your meals and go to your rooms. There will be no entertainment this evening." Given a final glance at the Trix and then to the disguised keyblader before leaving.
Lucy looked at them before heading off. "Try not to cause more problems or the Trix will make your life a misery, newbie."
Mal ignored her and didn't like being put down below others, nor against bullies like the Trix. She turned her attention to Mirta who slowly recovered and offered to help her which she did. "You alright?"
"I'm.. I'm fine, thanks, Lilith." Mirta was grateful and couldn't believe what Lilith did to stood up for her.
"Just didn't like how they were getting the idea of being the top witches go to their heads." Mal brushed it aside as if it didn't meant anything.
"I mean, you stood up to the Trix when no one else would. I mean, even if I must have been stupid to think something like that." Mirta said, lowered her head in shame as they entered their dorm room. Believing Lilith would think the same as they did.
Truth be told, Mal had in fact befriend some who were fairies, even those that made a rough start but considered trustworthy after helping them out a lot. "Well..." Suddenly she felt her phone vibrating from her pocket and pulled it out to answer the coming call which came from Musa. "Hello? Musa?"
"Hey, Mal. Listen we're setting up a party at Alfea since it's only us girls and the guys are coming over so we thought to have some fun, wanna come over?."
Listening to her giving out an invite to Mal and some party they're having? Taking a moment to think it over and perhaps some time off from studying and work could do her well. Turning her gaze at the teary Mirta who was sitting on her bed, somehow, she felt bad for what they did to her and decided to give her answer.
"So a party you say? Well... I guess I could come, mind if I bring a friend over?" Mal asked her, Mirta heard her and looked at her in surprise.
"Sure, the more the merrier as they say! If your friend can handle the crazy antics."
Mal nodded. "I'll be sure she can handle it. See ya there." Hangs up the phone and turned around. "Remember when you said about being friends with Fairies? Well, you might get that chance."
Mirta's eyes widen and swore she was kidding. "R-Really? You want me to come? And actually friends with fairies?"
Mal shrugged to give her answer. "Well, some I'm getting to know of, one... maybe two you would get along well... one of them, maybe. So you coming or not?"
Giving a thought and perhaps would be a chance to maybe prove to others that both sides could be get along and put aside this ancient feud, or at least enough to understand each other. "Sure!"
Uncertain why, but it somehow... feels good to see someone happy, not wanting to admit it but seems being friends with the boys and the Winx started to make her feel open. 'If my aunts see this, they probably think I grew another head. Either that or getting too soft.'
"But just something of a heads up, on the way there are some things you need to know and things to keep quiet, especially don't tell someone by the names of Taren the idiot, Ben prince charming and the Fashion Queen Stella that I gone soft, like to keep a rep around here."
Mirita gave a soft chuckle and felt a little better. "No worries, as my dad usually says 'got it memorized'."
Mal lifted an eyebrow and thought it was an odd memo for someone to say, unless its just her but didn't bothered to ask. "Alright, lets just get going before more trouble comes. A party would be nice to get a break."
Aqua Seneschal was working in a lab updating the data collected from the battle between the newest wielders of the keyblade against the Grimm they unleashed into the swamp, observing the images recorded by the drones tirelessly to study their skills and know about them. Using the Hunting Troll as their sacrificial pawn was a calculated risk as well as to remove him from being discovered, an alternative choice would have to simply wipe his memories of any connections to them or even the Trix to cover any evidence to the authorities, too much of a risk if someone were to be able to restore them. Therefore, termination was the most logical choice. After the successful mission they informed the Trix that it be best to lay low for a few days while conducting some of their own work for their plans, allowing the witches to do their own such as trying to find the ring.
Returning to the main subject he studied the group of young students who fought the Grimm, clearly the Keyblade Wielders were very skilled and proven resourceful: The first one to begin was Mal. The Cyber Lord noticed how the young witch was able to control the forces of nature and create creatures to serve, but according to hus companions she can emerge and disappear in a shadow when she summoned her keyblade, a possible source of her abilities. The ability to manipulate the elements of Nature and Darkness could provide her an amazing advantage over her enemies. The Trix once considered the thought of her joining their side as a fellow witch, the thought was tempting but Seneschal and Tezzeret both feel it was not such a good idea.
'She could prove very dangerous and toy with her foes, much like those of the Darkness Civilization.' Seneschal would have to set a barrier to prevent possible infiltrations should they discover leads of their hidden base. He will add her to the list of possible threats to deal with for the time being
The second Keywielder, Prince Ben of Auradon. whats interesting is the fact he is the son of Queen Belle, a former Princess of Hearts and the king who was cursed into a beast in his youth until she lifted the spell. So far the prince has demonstrated skills of combat and wielded the keyblade well, possibly has enhanced strength after watching one of the battles on Earth when he single handedly knocked out an Ursa with a single punch using his aura to shield his body and taken on a Beowolf in the alleyway. Unable to gain further research of what his keyblade's power is without exposing any probes or Seers being detected, however he shows skills in working with others, the conclusion is to not underestimate this boy. Further research is required.
Then for the final Keyblade wielder, one he considers a main threat out of all three: Taren, the son of the keyblade master and hero who defeated Xehanort in the Battle of Scala ad Caelum, and the Radiant garden's princess Kairi, the current Princess of Heart and also keyblade wielder. Since the Cyber Lord learned about this from Tezzeret after his 'dramatic entrance' on the Destiny Islands, Seneschal couldn't help but feel this one be a major threat, yet intrigued after a sudden burst of enormous power spiked for a moment which caused the boy to vanish without a trace.
Then after several months of searching for that power, another spike appeared on the planet Earth were it was believed a Fairy of Earth was found. And it has shown that the boy has indeed become stronger at a short amount of time, analysing the data of the battles and the recent fight against the Nevermore after suddenly awakened the ability of Flowmotion. It is no different from stories how his father fought in the last Keyblade War at his age, perhaps one day to surpass him and that could be a problem for them.
Flashback.
Seneschal 'stepped' out of the portal and arrived on the islands after finding its location, the home of the three Keyblade Masters. He only had limited time to spare while the Grimm were keeping Sora and Riku busy, enough time before the princess would realise something is wrong. But what caught his attention was a young boy with copper red hair and blue eyes running past by, almost exactly like Sora as a child. Too fast to notice him until a Beringal leapt beside him while on a chase and stopped for a brief moment to notice the Cyber Lord. He felt a strange power within the boy, something that may be of interest to them. Immediately used the control gem in his possession to force the Grimm under his command.
"I have new orders for you, Grimm. Capture the boy, if he resist... eliminate!" His single eye narrowed as he feels if the capture was unsuccessful he would have to terminate the human. The Beringal grumbled and let out a roar to resume its hunt, but not without him following them until the Grimm had the boy cornered by the cliff. Received message from his partner about the boy being Sora's son, a perfect opportunity to force him into surrender and perhaps use the lives of his family on the line.
About to step out when he noticed the boy looked about, very odd but a moment a go he looked ready to give up but then changed his pose, as if he was preparing for a fight. "What is he doing?" He said softly to himself and remained behind the trees.
"I don't know what you are or who that guy is ... but I'm not letting you leave in one piece. I'm gonna send you back to whatever hell hole you came out of!" Taren proclaimed as he gave a glare to the Grimm."And I'll protect everyone I care for from you monsters! Including that old bastard! That's a promise!"
At first, Seneschal would have thought the boy was foolish into thinking he could achieve such an impossible task, to defeat someone far above him would be futile. When suddenly he halted and noticed something unexpected happened. Unknown to the boy a powerful aura surrounded his body and greatly surprised the Cyber Lord. And then... IT happened.
He couldn't believe what he just saw, a keyblade in his hand suddenly materialised. This was a unexpected turn of an event, but this incredible power coming from him and before the Grimm could attack, a force threw the Grimm and himself back by several feet back. Slowly getting up and see a beam of light shooting straight up into the blue sky. Looked back to find the child was nowhere to be found, this was no coincidence, something happened almost what these creatures would call a 'divine intervention', not wanting to risk being found out as he decided to retreat for now and inform Tezzeret what he learnt.
End Flashback.
Unable to grasp what had happened, but it may be somewhat linked to his power. He will have to conduct further research on this young wielder in the near future.
This intrigued and baffled him as well as the discovery of a suppose Earth Fairy, there have not been any Fairies on that world for centuries since then, presumed to have been wiped out by Humans who desired their magic... especially by a certain group they will certainly deal with in the near future. Bringing up the image of the girl that caught their attention after the first and second encounter through the Seer. At first he dismissed her being a threat until she had awakened her transformation and defeated the Trix alongside one of the keybladers on their second battle. But something about this girl seems odd... the readings of her magic are unlike anything and unable to figure out why she feels somewhat familiar. In the meantime, they will have to keep a close eye on her.
"Anything interesting, Seneschal?" He turned around to see Tezzeret entering the room to see him.
"It would seem we may have to remain cautious as I have learnt the identity of their aide and possibly responsible for destroying our probes." He brought an image up with his fingers to show him the image of an old man wearing a black trench-coat.
At first Tezzeret was puzzled by this stranger until a closer look at his face that his face turned into disbelief. "It can't be... so its really him. Then we have to be very careful. Perhaps we should inform the Trix of our return."
"And perhaps they have successfully obtained the Ring of Solaria, but I have my doubts." Seneschal didn't hold back his skepticism on the witches they are working with, especially how they underestimate their enemies. He types away to contact them on a secure channel as the projection revealed Icy
"Oh its you two, so your back from your trip?" Icy frowns and folded her arms across. "But since your here, we might give you the good news and bad news situation."
Stormy and Darcy appeared beside their sister as she continued. "You would've been pleased to hear, we actually got our hands on the ring after tricking that stupid fairy princess over a date she thought to be going to. Those fairies who started calling themselves... Winx Club? Tsk, stupid name. But they almost had us."
To hear they actually got the ring made the cyborg smile over the good news. "Well done, but what about the Keyblade wielders? Were they not present?"
"Probably been too busy training, we didn't sent out any Grimm like you told us not to." Darcy informed them before her face turned to a frown. "But before you give more praise, here's the bad news."
"That ring was useless! The legend said it could hold immense powers, but we found no power of the great Dragon itself!" Icy exclaimed in anger. "All that effort, being blasted, humiliated by those fairies and key brats and it was all for nothing!"
"It could perhaps have been a decoy or was mistranslated from ancient Solarian text." Seneschal shared his thoughts with his allies and brought his hand to where his chin should be. "The only logical planet that knows it greater then others is Domino, but unfortunately it is trapped in ice from the war."
"Thanks for sharing your logic with us, it's sooo helpful(!)" Icy retorted in a sarcastic tone when not impress and too frustrated. "Now how will we find the Dragon's Flame? Without it, both of us won't get what we want!"
Tezzeret was not affected by her rants, raised his gloved hand to show a gesture of silence to the witch before she could carry on. "Calm yourself, Icy. There are other ways to find the flame then just the ring. In fact all we need to do is find actual source of information of its possible location."
"Affirmative. We have confirmed possible individuals who hold its secrets, such as Alfea's headmistress." Seneschal believed. "For now, it is best to wait and come up with the best strategy to complete such a task. Headmistress Faragonda is not to be underestimated."
Listening to the Cyber Lord give his advice and idea, the witches thought it over.
"So why send a Grimm jellyfish to spy on them?" Stormy gave a thought.
Darcy shook her head in disagreement with her. "No, too risky. They would know somethings up, we need to find the right time to sneak into their school without the key wielders to know. And what better way then to sneak into an empty school with all the students and teachers away on a trip to the concert."
Icy nodded her head and sees it as a perfect plan. "That could work, alright we'll go along with your plan for now until something comes up."
"Very good. And remember there are many ways the flame could be found, best of luck." Cutting off the transmission and digests the information they received. Since the ring is useless there be no point going after the princess, so they will need to find another lead. "Least this time I didn't have to deal with that strong... smell coming from them."
"Possibly from that false egg Icy had retrieved when believed they stolen the ring. But permit me to speak with honesty." Seneschal turned to face Tezzerect for something on his mind.
"Not at all, old friend."
"Although they are skilled in magic and powerful, yet they lack discipline, ignorant and over-confident to become powerful witches, I calculate that without our assistance they will have less then 56% chance of victory. And personally, I do not trust them considering the last time we trusted their ancestors had cost us dearly."
"You make a valid point, but like it or not we need them as they need us to make this work." Tezzeret said knowing he felt the same way. "For when we achieve our prize, we will make the first move." Gives a small grin of thinking it and will wait for the moment to infiltrate the school to find possible secrets they know about it.
Sorry for a little late, was away on holiday for a week and had a good time for some sun and beach! Pity when I got back hay fever was back as if nothing happened. :P
So be trying to get to the other stories to do in my spare moment of free time. Now I left some little hints in this story and a character if you all know who it is that's causing mischief lol. Thought to skip ahead and show Macbeth's combat skills to demonstrate to the Specialists, but only a little as he was holding back until they get more better and understand what it means to be a hero.