Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Chapter 1- It Begins

The sun shined down upon the College for fairies, Alfea. Young fairies were walking across the quad, talking amongst each other as they headed to class. Though one group of girls, who have become professors themselves at such a young age sat in their room speaking with each other as they would on a typical day.

"I am so glad everything with Chimera is over girls, we can finally sit back and relax." Stella, the blonde hair princess with a light tan skin from Solaria told her friends.

"Stell, you better not jinx us or I swear." A blue-haired fairy with a pale skin complexion responded to the Solarian Princess with crossed arms.

"Relax Musa, according to my calculations we should be home free from any attacks." Tecna, the pink haired fairy with the short pixie cut spoke as she clicked away on her phone.

"I'm just glad I can get back into the normal routine and actually have a life again. I want to get back into the gym." Layla, the princess from Andros spoke, her dark skin tone with her braided brunette hair.

"I agree, oh and Bloom how is Daphne doing with Thoren now?" Flora, the tanned skin girl with caramel long hair asked her red headed friend.

"She's doing well, she's actually now expecting," Bloom said smiling and all the girls squealed.

"Oh my Winx that's the greatest news!" Stella replied as she stood up, jumping up and down.

"That's incredible! Congrats Bloom!" Musa told her friend who smiled graciously.

"Haha thanks, she's only just found out a couple of weeks ago but they both are super excited." Bloom told them and the girls all nodded.

The rest of the day went by smoothly, the girls mostly talking about Bloom becoming an aunt and such. It was around seven and the girls were grading papers in their rooms as they usually did when an explosion went off.

Flora who was in her room with Bloom jumped up and ran to the balcony where she saw fire spreading through the grass. She grimaced in pain as she saw some fire burn the trees around but shook off the pain. Flora turned to Bloom who was on her feet and made eye contact with each other and nodded before running out of their room.

"Stella, why did you have to open your big mouth, now look." Musa spoke as Flora and Bloom came out where the other girls were and Stella blushed a deep shade of red.

"No matter, we have to go!" Bloom told the girls and they all took off. Upon arriving outside, the flames increasingly got worse.

"Who the heck would do something like this?" Stella shrieked as she inhaled a puff of smoke, causing her to cough.

"Oh I can name a big list Stell." Layla said as she coughed as well.

"C'mon girls!" Bloom told them and they stood in their position.

"Winx Believix!" All of the girls chorused together and instantly they changed into their Believix form.

"Layla, Tecna, Stella, you girls work on the fire, Musa, Flora, and I will get the students out of here." Bloom commanded and all the girls nodded and took off.

Flora took to the sky and searched for any fairy who was in need of help. She began to feel pain again as she turned her head and saw some more trees catching fire, she quickly ignored the pain and spotted three fairies in trouble. One of the three were under a tree and fire was starting to creep up on it and the two other fairies were trying to push the tree off the girl but were failing.

"Luxurious Ivy!" Flora yelled and vines sprouted through the ground and lifted the tree off the girl, allowing the two fairies to pull their friend free.

Flora let go of her vines and flew down to the girls to make sure they were okay.

"Are you girls okay?" Flora asked and the two girls were kneeling on the ground in front of their friend who seemed to be unconscious.

"Our friend! She's hurt, oh god Melanie wake up!" One of the younger girls cried and Flora quickly examined the young girl who had burn marks and black smoke on her face.

"Get her to the infirmary, cut through the east wing where there is no fire, teachers should be there and can help." Flora told the girls who nodded and picked up their friend and ran off into the school.

Flora turned around and saw Bloom and Musa helping students to safety, she watched as Tecna created a barrier so the fire can't reach the school, Stella was trying to redirect the flames to Layla who was putting out the fire. She smiled as she watched her friends help save the school she loved.

Suddenly Flora felt herself being launched forward, screaming as she hit the ground. Flora managed to get to her knees before she saw a white bright coming straight for her and she heard someone scream her name but couldn't tell who it was and was blasted backwards again. As she was losing consciousness she briefly saw a pale-skinned man with white hair, smiling evilly through the darkness as if it were a dream, until she felt nothing at all.

"FLORA!" Musa yelled as she saw Flora get hit with a spell causing her to deform and lay unconscious on the ground. Musa spotted Icy walking up to the nature fairy and acted fast.

"SONIC BOOM!" Musa yelled out, her spell slamming hard into Icy, causing her to fly backward. The others took note of Icy's presence and spotted their friend on the ground.

Musa quickly flew down to Flora who was still unconscious, bruised, and black smoke covering her tanned skin.

"Flo?" Musa whispered as she gently shook her friend but received no response.

"Ah stupid little pixie." Icy snarled as she stood before Musa, ready to send a spell there way.

"ICE COFFIN!" Icy yelled and Musa quickly jumped in front of Flora, prepared to take the full blunt of the attack.

"FIREWALL!" Immediately a digital wall was formed and took the attack. Musa sighed in relief and watched as Tecna flew down next to Musa and Flora and the others following suit.

"Thanks, Tec." Musa told her friend who nodded and smiled at her. The others stood in front of Musa and Flora, while Musa held Flora's head in her lap.

"What do you want now Icy?" Bloom yelled at Icy who smirked at Bloom. No matter how many times the Winx defeated the trix, they continued to come back, they were becoming a real pest.

"Oh hush Bloom, it’s not you for once. Instead it's little miss flower power." Icy told them and everyone was taken aback that Icy would rather have Flora, usually it Bloom they wanted.

"I hate to break it to you Icy but that's not happening." Stella said as she pointed at Icy, stepping even closer to Flora now.

"Well, maybe not now but soon, you girls just wait." Icy said and with that she flew off, leaving the girls to watch her fly away, confused as to why all of this happened. They all looked at each other knowing that this was the start of something dangerous, yet again.

Chapter Text

The girls looked at each other confused as to what just occurred, but each of them knew that a new adventure was beginning. The flames started to die down as more and more fairies began extinguishing the flames along with the professor's help.

"Girls come on, we have to get Flora to the nurse!" Musa told the girls who shook off their thoughts and knelt down to their friend. Flora had a small bleeding cut on the edge of her eyebrow and her skin tone darkened by the black smoke that stuck to her face when she went down.

"I got this." Stella told them and used her ring of Solaria and summoned her staff, placing her hands on the girls and teleported them to the nurse, which was overflowing with injured fairies.

"Nurse Ofelia! We need you now!" Layla yelled and soon enough Nurse Ofelia came running in, sweat beading off her forehead from all the running around she has been doing since the attack. Her face dropped when she saw Flora being held up by Musa and Bloom, completely unconscious.

"Oh dear, quickly girls place her on the bed." Nurse Ofelia told them and they quickly listened and placed Flora on the bed. Ofelia quickly rolled Flora into the back room leaving her friends behind.

------

"Girls?!" It was Brandon's voice who came running in with Sky, Nabu, and Timmy. It's been fifteen minutes since Flora was taken and the guys fortunately were able to find them.

"Snookums!" Stella yelled as she ran into her boyfriend's arms and Brandon held his girlfriend close, running his hand through the blonde locks.

"Bloom what happened? Are you alright?" Sky asked as he checked Bloom over for injuries before pulling her into a hug.

"I'm fine, the trees were blazing and Icy showed up but it's Flora we're worried about." Bloom told him and he nodded sadly.

"What happened to Flora?" Timmy asked as he wrapped his arm around Tecna's waist.

"Icy hit her when she wasn't looking and she inhaled a lot of smoke, nurse Ofelia is with her now." Layla told them as she stood next to Nabu.

"Speaking of Flora, where's Helia? And Riven for that matter?" Musa asked the boys, slightly concerned about her boyfriend as well as Flora's.

"Helia and Riven are on a diplomatic mission, they won't be back till next week." Nabu told the girls who nodded.

"I didn't know Riven was the diplomatic type." Musa commented, causing the others to chuckle.

"He's not, but sometimes you need a good cop, bad cop to get things done." Brandon said and the girls nodded.

"Hello girls, how are you all feeling?" It was Ms. Faragonda who came walking in asking the girls the question.

"We're alright Mrs. F, we're gonna get checked out once we find out Flora's okay." Tecna told their Headmaster who nodded.

"Mrs. Faragonda, Icy wanted to get Flora and were all confused as to why I mean usually it would be for me because of the Dragon Flame." Bloom told Ms. Faragonda who closed her eyes and took a deep breath.

"Girls, I think I might know why they want Flora, but I will explain when Flora is awake." Ms. Faragonda told the girls who all looked at each other but nodded.

An hour passed by as the girls and the specialists waited in the waiting room to hear about their friend. You could see the worry on everyone’s expression, scared for their friends safety. Eventually nurse Ofelia walked out with a smile on her face.

"Hello girls, Flora is stable and awake, she should recover just fine. She may be a little weak for a few days and may need help but that's about it." Nurse Ofelia said to the Winx and specialists who all sighed in relief.

"Can we go see her now?" Layla asked and Nurse Ofelia nodded and with that, the girls ran into their friend's room, with their boyfriends and Ms. Faragonda behind them.

"FLORA!" Stella screamed as she saw her friend sitting up in her hospital bed and ran over to her and gave her a hug, making Flora wince a little.

"Stella get off of her! You're gonna injure her more." Musa told the blonde who quickly let go of her friend.

"It's fine Musa, I'm alright now, better now that you girls are here." Flora told Musa, her voice much weaker and softer than it usually is.

"We're so glad your okay Flo, you gave us quite the scare out there." Bloom told her friend as she walked over and placed her hand on Flora's shoulder.

"I can't believe Icy stooped so low and attacked you when you weren't even looking!" Layla said as she crossed her arms, angry at the fact that Icy hurt one of her best friends.

"Yeah, it was also illogical that it was only Icy, I wonder what happened to Darcy and Stormy." Tecna stated to the group.

"Who cares, if it's just Icy we can take her out easily." Stella remarked and the others agreed.

"Especially when you have us backing you girls up." Sky said smiling and that's when Flora looked around the room, trying to find her boyfriend but also for the magenta haired specialist.

"Hey wher-" Flora was cut off by Musa.

"Helia and Riven are doing some diplomatic missions, they aren't gonna be back for a week." Musa told her and Flora nodded and lowered her head and Musa, knowing exactly how Flora was feeling, grabbed her friend's hand and gave it a squeeze.

"I know, but on the bright side it's me and you." Musa replied with a smile.

"Ms. F, can you tell us why Icy wanted Flora now?" Brandon asked the headmistress who nodded.

"Yes indeed, Flora, have you ever heard of the Rose Quantum?" Ms, Faragonda asked her former student and Flora nodded.

"Yeah, but it was a folktale people from Lynphea talked about, it's just a myth." Flora responded but just shook her head.

"My dear Flora, it is real as you and I, and the power lies within you." Ms. Faragonda told Flora, who looked as pale as a ghost. The girls looked at Flora's facial expression and looked at each other confused.

"Uhm, can someone clue us in on what the Rose Quantum is?" Stella asked as she leaned on Brandon.

"Long story short, Bloom, you may have just met your match on the power scale." Ms. Faragonda said and all the girls widened their eyes, Flora included.

"What?!" The Girls chorused together and the guys just stared, their mouths hanging open and Faragonda just sighed, knowing that a whole new adventure awaits.

Chapter Text

Chapter 3- A Prophecy Told

"Wait, what do you mean?" Bloom asked in shock.

"It means that Flora is now just like you, possibly more powerful. When you first arrived, I knew you possessed something great and now my suspicions are confirmed. You wield one of the strongest powers to exist." Ms. Faragonda told Flora who looked as if she was gonna pass out at any moment.

"No... You're wrong, I'm just plain old Flora who likes nature, Bloom has the dragon fire, she's much more powerful than me, I mean if I had the power wouldn't I know by now?" Flora asked and Ms. Faragonda shook her head.

"The Rose Quantum is one of the strongest powers to exist yet the hardest to achieve. It takes great strength to release it." Ms. Faragonda told the girls who looked at their headmistress as if she had ten heads.

"First why don't I tell you about one of Flora's ancestors who wielded the power. As a matter of fact it wasn't a fairy either." Ms. Faragonda told them.

"Wait, it wasn't a fairy?" Tecna asked in shock and Ms. Faragonda nodded.

"It was a male wizard, who happened to be the royal knight to the royal family of Lynphea by the name of Sir Aden. Flora, he happens to be one of your great grandfathers, around 200 years ago." Ms. Faragonda told the girls and Flora felt her palms get sweaty as she took several quick breaths. She felt a hand on her shoulder and turned her head to see Musa giving her a comforting smile and then turned her attention back to Ms. F as she told the legend.

It was the sum of 200 years ago, when a man, with sandy brown hair and the greenest eyes you could see, riding on his horseback in his armor. He had his sword by his side as his horse trotted through the forest, smiling as he looked around at the trees, breathing in the fresh air, enjoying the greenery around him.

"Sir Aden!" A voice called out and Sir Aden turned his head and smiled , there before him was a girl, around 22, fairing a tanned skin complexion with long caramel brown hair and beautiful hazel eyes. Sir Aden quickly dismounted from his horse and ran to give the girl a hug.

"Lady Aurora!" Aden spoke, his voice with a thick accent, the two embraced and looked into each other's eyes.

"You know you shouldn't be out here alone, Aurora, especially if war is roaring on." Aden told Aurora who shrugged.

"Yeah I know, but I knew you would come out here and plus it's so beautiful." Aurora told Aden who chuckled.

"Very true, but we should head back, I don't think the king would like to know that his niece ran off." Aden told Aurora who sighed but nodded.

"Fine, but only because you said so." Aurora told him and leaned up and pecked him on the lips.

Smiling, Aden lifted her onto his horse and mounted himself and took off to the castle. The ride only took about 15 minutes and they both dismounted but what they found shocked them.

People were lifeless on the street, and others who weren't were running away. Aden found a soldier who was groaning on the ground and ran over to him.

"Guard what happened?" Aden asked in a low voice.

"T...Than...Thanatos is here." He sputtered out before closing his eyes for the last time. Sir Aden closed his eyes in sorrow before standing out and unsheathed his sword.

"I need to get to the castle, you need to hide." Aden told Aurora who shook her head.

"No way, I'm coming too, remember I'm a fairy and can defend." Aurora shot back and Aden sighed but nodded and they both ran off to the throne room. They entered to see the guards all dead on the ground and saw the Queen in the middle, her chest rising and falling.

"AUNT ROSA!" Aurora yelled and ran to her aunt and lifted her head into her lap.

"A..Aurora? Child, you must get Lucas and leave, I can't let you both get hurt. Sir Aden take care of my niece and son." Queen Rosa told them weakly and Aden nodded at the Queen's command.

"We must get you out as well, where is the King?" Aden asked as he warily looked around the room, gripping his sword.

"He's right here." A voice boomed, causing everyone to jump and turn around to see a man with deathly pale skin, ice blue eyes and white hair flipped to its side, holding the king by his shirt.

"THANATOS LET HIM GO!" Aden yelled as he pointed his sword towards Thanatos.

"Tsk tsk tsk, that's not how someone should treat their new ruler." Thanatos spoke, his voice sending a chill down Aden's spine.

Lady Aurora quickly rose to her feet and transformed into her enchantix form and flew up to face him.

"You put my uncle down or I swear to you Thanatos, you would wish you were dead." Aurora growled as Thanatos was holding King Rolland by the back of his shirt, his face bruised and cut and an open wound on his side.

"Aurora, get out of here!" The king yelled but Aurora stood her ground and stared at Thanatos with rage.

"Fine then M'Lady." Thanatos responded and threw the King to the ground, him landing with a loud thud. Immediately Aden ran over to the King's side to assess his wounds.

"You will pay for that Thanatos! SPRING SHOWER!" Aurora yelled and used her natural ability to send an attack Thanatos' way.

Thanatos easily parried the attack and shot a dark orb straight at Aurora, sending her flying into the wall. Aurora heard Aden's yell, but she still rose to her feet and took to the sky once again.

"LUXURIOUS IVY!" Aurora yelled and vines came flying through the walls and grabbed Thanatos, who seemingly struggled against the vines.

"Cute, real cute." Thanatos said before breaking free from the vines and shot another attack at Aurora who dodged it.

"FLORAL ESSENCE!" Aurora yelled at and launched one of her strongest attacks at Thanatos, slamming him into the wall. Thanatos quickly jumped out of it with blood coming down his head.

"I'm done with your little games girl." Thanatos growled, annoyed that he got a cut from the fairy.

"STORMS VORTEX!" Thanatos yelled, sending a strong attack to Aurora, knocking her out of the sky, causing her to transform into her normal clothes and land hard on the ground.

"NO AURORA!" Aden yelled and he stood up from where he was next to the king and charged at Thanatos, who easily grabbed Aden's arm and threw him into the wall.

Aden slowly stood up and then charged Thanatos once again but was thrown back by a dark spell. Aden stayed down, groaning as he held his side. He managed to open his eyes to see Thanatos approaching Aurora, a wide smirk on his face.

"It's a shame really, I have to destroy such a beauty." Thanatos said as he began to conjure up another spell. Sir Aden saw what was about to happen and he stood up, anger pouring through him, feeling a surge of power flow through his veins.

"GET AWAY FROM HER!" Sir Aden screamed and his body started glowing a bright green. Even Thanatos turned around in shock as he watched the man glow green.

"GET. AWAY. FROM. HER." Aden screamed again and Thanatos smirked, and threw a spell towards him but to Thanatos' shock, Aden absorbed it.

"Bloody hells." Thanatos murmured as Aden's glow became brighter and brighter.

"ROSE QUANTUM!" Aden yelled and a large rumbling began and the floor underneath Thanatos started to open and vines started shooting out, grabbing him and began to pull him in.

"NO! NO! HOW I WILL RETU-" Thanatos mouth was covered by a vine as he was thrashing around, until the vines finally pulled him into the hole, and once done so, the whole vanished. Aden looked at the place Thanatos once stood and then looked at Aurora who was slowly getting up, until Aden felt the darkness consume him and he dropped to the ground.

"Luckily everyone survived, though the Queen almost didn't but she pulled through and Lady Aurora and Sir Aden left the castle soon after to raise their family, jumpstarting your families line Flora." Ms. Faragonda finished the folktale with everyone looking at her with shocked eyes.

"Wow." Brandon heaved out as he leaned against the wall in disbelief.

"So Flora is now the prime target?" Layla asked the headmistress who sadly nodded and Flora inhaled a deep breath.

“But if Sir Aden used the Rose Quantum, shouldn’t he be gone?” Sky asked as he raised an important question.

“Unfortunately Sir Aden’s power was not of much strength so he couldn’t fully destroy Thanatos, leaving a crack for him to escape.” Ms. Faragonda responded to the blonde prince who nodded.

"Can the power be stolen?" Tecna asked and Ms. F shook her head causing the others to sigh in relief.

"The only way to stop Flora from using it, is to kill her." Ms. Faragonda responded and everyone once again tensed up, Flora especially.

"Okay so we just keep her safe?" Bloom asked and Ms. F nodded.

"Yes, until we know more of what is going on. Now I must be off to speak with Ms. Griffin and Headmaster Saladin." She told everyone and took her leave, leaving everyone behind in their thoughts.

"C...Can someone tell Helia, I don't think I'll be able to." Flora asked quietly as she looked down and started to play with her fingers.

"I have it covered, Flora, I'll also tell Riven as well." Timmy told Flora who smiled gratefully at Timmy.

"I'll actually go do it now, feel better Flo." Timmy told her as he walked up to Flora's bedside and gave her a light hug before walking off, but not without giving Tecna a kiss on the cheek of course.

"We should also be heading back to Red Fountain. We will see you girls later. Flora, take care." Sky said as he walked up and gave Flora a hug as well, Nabu doing the same.

"Flora, call us at any time you need us okay? Get better soon, we will visit as soon as we can." Brandon told Flora as he pulled her into a hug and kissed the top of her forehead in a brotherly way.

The girls quickly said goodbye to their boyfriends except for Flora and Musa who were quietly talking to pass the time.

"Hey girls, I'm sorry but we're shutting down for the night, we're gonna keep Flora overnight just to be safe. If you want, one of you girls could stay overnight as well." Nurse Ofelia told the girls who nodded.

"I can stay." Musa said and all the girls nodded. They each went up and hugged Flora, whispering goodnights to each other.

"Musa, if anything happens don't hesitate to call okay?" Bloom told Musa who nodded, and with that the girls left the room.

"Musa, you didn't have to stay." Flora told her and Musa shook her head.

"Nonsense, besides after everything we haven't been able to talk as much." Musa told her and Flora nodded.

"So, how are you feeling?" Musa asked Flora as she sat on the bed next to Flora who moved slightly over for her to sit.

"I dunno, numb and shocked I guess. I mean why me? I'm just Flora, nothing special yet here I am with this power that I don't even know if I can control." Flora told her quietly as she looked down at her feet.

"Hey, you are special Flora, you are the kindest, sweetest and greatest friend anyone could have. Truth be told you are the glue to the group, without you it would probably be chaos." Musa told her and pulled her into a hug.

"And don't you worry, you will have us behind you in everything, the Trix won't get you and we will figure out this power okay?" Musa told her comfortingly.

"That's exactly it, I don't want you guys to get hurt because of me. I couldn't bear that." Flora told Musa as a tear rolled down her cheek.

"Hey hey, this is our choice to help you, if we get hurt it is not your fault, we chose this. We have your back and we know you have ours, besides when you do figure out your power, the Trix better run for the hills and any other evil afterwards." Musa told her and pulled her into a hug, allowing Flora to lay her head on Musa's shoulder.

"I just... What if Helia isn't happy with this. I mean I was just a normal fairy and now I'm an ancestor of this incredibly strong power? I don't want this, Helia probably doesn't want this either. He will probably just leave me, why would he want a girlfriend who will be in danger 24/7." Flora whispered and Musa pulled away from Flora and looked at her.

"The same way Sky stays for Bloom, he loves her and Helia loves you, he would never leave and god help him if he does because he won't get far as long as I'm around." Musa told her and Flora laughed a little.

"Thanks Musa, I really needed that." Flora told her and Musa smiled gratefully at her.

"No problem Flo, but you should get some sleep, you need the rest after today." Musa told her and Flora nodded and leaned her head into her pillow and closed her eyes. Musa looked at Flora and sighed, knowing that the future is going to be a difficult journey.

If only they knew how difficult.

Chapter Text

Flora was walking in the fields, her fingers brushing against the vibrant flowers she walked past. She enjoyed the sun hitting her skin whilst the brisk breeze flowed through her hair.

Flora continued to walk until she spotted a flower wilting. Frowning, Flora walked over and knelt next to it.

"Awe, your poor thing. Let me help." Flora spoke to the plant as she blew green glitter from the palms of her hand that would heal the little flower.

Flora's eyes widened as she watched the flower begin to wilt more and more, until it disintegrated. Flora fell back in shock, crawling backwards. She looked around and watched as all the plant life began to wither, the grass surrounding her disintegrated into nothing and all that was left was dirt.

"Wh.. What's happening?!" Flora let out, panic rising within her chest.

"There's nothing for you to worry about, my dear. Nature is just showing its true form."

Flora turned around and saw a man who looked deathly pale and white hair spiked to the side. The same man she saw before.

"Who... Who are you?!" Flora gasped as she stood up and backed away from the man.

"Oh, my dear Flora, you will find out soon enough. But for now, let me just show you a small bit of my power." The man started before snapping his finger and a white fireball appeared.

"What?!" Flora gasped as she watched the white hair male throw the fireball at her, hitting her directly in her chest knocking her backwards and into the dirt. Flora felt pain coarse through her body and the last thing she saw was a flash of brown hair until nothing.

Flora woke up in a flash, sweat beading down her forehead as she took in deep breaths. She took in the room around her, sighing in relief when the familiarity of her dorm room appeared in her vision.

"Flora?" The nature fairy snapped her head up to see her red headed roommate staring at her from her closet.

"Are you okay?" Bloom asked as she walked over to the flower fairy.

"Uh yeah Bloom. I'm fine, really. Just a little nightmare, nothing to worry about." Flora responded and Bloom looked skeptical but nodded, not wanting to push the matter if Flora wasn't ready to talk about it.

—

It's been a week since the attack on Alfea and the girls were all in their rooms relaxing. Flora was recovering well and was out with the girls, sipping on a cup of tea.

"So, girls, I think we've ignored the issue long enough. We've allowed Flora to heal and rest, but I really think we should talk about, uh, you know what." Bloom began, ending all of the girl's side conversations.

"What are we supposed to do? As of right now everything's been quiet, and we can't go anywhere to try and stop this whole ordeal." Musa told the group, crossing her arms as she leaned back into the couch.

"I guess we just have to keep our guards up. We don't know who this new threat is, and we can't have Flora put at risk again." Layla responded and the girls agreed except for the nature fairy.

"No."

"What do you mean no? That's illogical Flora, we have to keep you safe." Tecna responded to the surprised answer of their friend.

"Look girls, I really appreciate what you want to do. But we're not going to change how we live; I'm not going to change my lifestyle to protect me over something we don't even know about. We don't even know if what's happening is real. For all we know the Trix just wanted to throw everyone off." Flora told them and even Stella looked at her as if she had ten different heads.

"Flora, are you out of your mind? Reality check, there is some evil force that wants to kill you. Not just take your powers but kill you. You alone can't take something like this on." Stella told Flora who looked up in shock as the others agreed.

"Woah Stella, I know we want to protect Flora but tha-"Musa started, surprised by what her friend just said until she was cut off.

"Are you serious Stella? You really don't think I can handle this." Flora began, a hint of hurt flashing through the nature fairies' eyes.

"Look at the last time Flora, you ended up in the infirmary and it wasn't even this big bad enemy." Stella told her straight on and Flora shook her head in disbelief.

"I can't believe you're talking down on my own abilities Stella. To be frank, I don't even want you girls involved, you want to know why? Because I don't want you getting hurt. But now knowing you don't even think I'm capable of defending myself is just worse than what any enemy could do to me." Flora finished before getting up and walking into her room, shutting the door louder than she normally would.

"Really guys. Flora always supported us when we had to do things, but you can't support her at all? Bloom, she's going through what you went through so of all people I'd expect to defend her, you would. But I guess I was wrong." Musa told them and all the girls looked down at their feet.

"We just want to keep her safe, this is brand new territory for her. I've had this happen to me for years, I know what to expect. I wish I had you guys help me more when this first started with me and that's what I want to do for Flora." Bloom told Musa and the girls instantly agreed with their leader.

"I get that Bloom, but you could have said that instead of tearing her down." Musa told them before getting up and walking towards Flora's room.

Musa opened the door and saw her nature loving friend staring out the window, her shoulders sagging.

"Hey Flora, are you okay?" Musa asked, walking over to her friend.

"Yeah, I just overreacted. I'm sorry." Flora told her friend, not making eye contact as she stared out the window.

"Flora, you didn't do anything wrong. The others were being stupid, and they realized that. They only want to keep you safe." Musa told her as she placed a hand on Flora's shoulder.

"You have been tasked with something you could never have even dreamed of. You're going to get through this, we're here for you Flo." Musa told her, offering a small smile to her friend.

"That's just it. I have... I have been having dreams." Flora told her quietly as flora moved away from the window and sat down on her bed.

"What do you mean?" Musa asked, sitting next to her friend concerned.

"Ever since the attack, when I got knocked out. I saw some guy; he was pale and creepy looking. After that I would get nightmares, the same guy. He.. he would make all of nature perish into nothing. Then he would hit me with some spell and as I was going unconscious, I'd see a flash of brown hair rush over to me, but I could never make out who. Then I would wake up." Flora confessed as she looked at the ground.

"Oh my god, Flo you should've told one of us sooner. We need to tell the girls and Faragonda." Musa told her and Flora sighed.

"I know, I just didn't want to burden anyone. I just... I don't know what to do. I mean who was that guy? Then that brown-haired person. I mean is there someone else in the mix? I just... I don't know." Flora told Musa truthfully as she buried her face into her hands.

"Flora, you will never be a burden, ever. We will figure everything out and we all have your back, don't worry." Musa comforted her friend and Flora smiled at her.

"Thank you, Musa." Flora replied sweetly as she reached out and hugged the raven haired friend.

"Now let's go tell the girls." Musa told her as she stood up and extended her hand. Flora looked at her and nodded and grabbed her friends' hand and followed her out the door.

Chapter Text

“It seems like Thanatos is connecting with you during your dreams. His objective is to portray fear into your mind Flora.” Ms. Faragonda told the nature fairy whose eyes saddened at the news.

“It would seem that way I guess. Is there anything I can do to stop it?” Flora asked and the headmistress shook her head apologetically.

“At the moment I am unsure, I will look into the archives to try and research more. For now, if you do have a nightmare, take notes about what has occurred and maybe we can put together what these are about.” Ms. Faragonda told Flora who nodded her head.

“Just be careful, make sure you are never sleeping alone. I’m not sure how powerful he can be during these nightmare spells.” Ms. Faragonda told the terrified brunette.

“Don’t worry Ms. F, we’re all gonna slumber party together the next few nights.” Musa told the headmistress who nodded gratefully.

“Very good, we'll continue to research more, you girls go on with your day.” Ms. Faragonda told the girls who nodded and they walked out of the office and headed back to the dorms.

“What do you girls wanna do, we still have some daylight to kill.” Bloom asked the group as they approached their door.

“How about we call the guys over and go chill by the lake?” Layla asked and immediately the girls agreed. 

Bloom whipped out her phone to text Sky and within minutes the guys were getting ready to head over. The girls took this time to get ready before heading down to the lake. By the time they got there, the guys had already set everything up, in their bathing suits and shirtless as they stood up to greet their girlfriends. Flora and Musa’s eyes lit up when they saw Riven and Helia a part of the mix, rushing up to their boyfriends.

“Hello my flower. How are you feeling? Are you okay? I wish I could’ve been back sooner.” Helia asked as he embraced Flora in a hug, not wanting to let his girlfriend go as he brushed his hand through her hair.

“I’m alright now, still a bit sore but almost good as new again.” She responded and he smiled, though angry at the same time. The thought of someone hurting his flower let alone targeting her angered him to the core.

Soon the guys and girls were messing around in the water, tanning, and just relaxing. Flora decided to stay out of the water today and on land but smiled as she watched her boyfriend and friends in the water. Watching them splash water at each other, talking and laughing brought joy to Flora’s heart. 

Though the joy didn’t last long as she thought of what could happen to them, because of her. She didn’t know how capable Thanatos was, but he seemed strong, and Flora would never forgive herself if anything happened to her friends. If they got hurt, or worse, if someone died, Helia, anyone. She couldn’t bear to even imagine it. She wrinkled her nose as she put her head down for a moment to take a deep breath. 

She felt a hand on her knee and she looked up to see Brandon sitting down next to her. His hair matted down, water dripping off the tips as he gave her a soft smile.

“You okay Flo?” Brandon asked as he looked at the nature fairy, a slight bit of concern in his eyes.

“Yeah, I’ll be fine.” Flora told him and he chuckled at the response.

“Yeah, good lie right there. It would’ve been good if I hadn’t used that before.” Brandon told her and Flora opened her mouth to try and argue it but fell short and closed it again as she looked at her friends once more.

“You’re scared of them getting hurt aren’t you.” Brandon asked as he followed her friend's gaze.

“Yeah… I just. What if things go south. What if Thanatos is really powerful and we can’t stop him. I don’t want you, or any of the others to get hurt on my account.” Flora told him truthfully and Brandon nodded understanding.

“I get that Flora, I do. I may not be in your shoes, but I care about everyone here just as much as you. You know, I don’t think anyone would be able to handle not helping and you getting hurt or worse. We all love you Flora.” Brandon told her as he wrapped an arm around the nature fairy who melted into his embrace.

“I know, I love you all too.” She responded softly, closing her eyes for a few moments.

“You know, when I first met you, I really thought about asking you out. I mean you are amazing. Then Stella came on strong and well you know how that ended up. Still couldn’t be happier and I’m happy to know that as I got to know you, you just feel like the little sister I never had.” He told her and Flora opened her eyes and pulled away as she looked at him in shock.

“Yeah I know, don’t tell Stella though, she may kill you or I, and it’s probably gonna be me if she heard that. But for real, Helia is a lucky guy and I am glad he’s treating you right. He is right, because I'll throw him off the ship when we’re flying if he isn’t.” He told her, laughing at the first bit but growing more serious at the end.

Flora ended up laughing at this, smiling as she looked at the brown haired specialist before her. He truly cared about her, and his protective side truly showed in the moment.

“Yes, Helia treats me amazingly. I’m so lucky to have met him.” Flora told him and Brandon smiled at that, knowing his friend was with someone worthy of her time. 

Truth be told, it was an unspoken agreement between the guys that for some reason Flora held a soft spot in all of their hearts, doing their best to protect her at all times, sometimes even more than the others. Even Riven had a massive soft spot for the nature fairy, besides Brandon and Helia, he was right up there wanting to protect the girl. There was something about her that just needed protecting and all the guys sensed it when they met her.

The day continued where they stayed at the lake until sundown, enjoying the day soaking in the sun and the water. They made new memories and had the most amount of fun that they have had in a long time.

————————

It’s been a few weeks since the lake and the girls were enjoying their Sunday evening at dinner out in Magix. 

“I told you guys this place was good.” Musa told the group as they were stuffing their faces with the Korean barbecue before them.

“It’s nothing I’ve ever tasted before, it’s unique and flavorful.” Tecna said as she went in for another bite of food. 

“Great job at choosing the place Musa, I’m gonna come here with my snookums one night!” Stella beamed, smiling as she looked up, her face smeared with barbecue sauce making the others burst out in laughter.

“What?” The blonde asked, confused as to what was going on.

“Uh, Stel, you kinda have a lot going on here.” Bloom told her friend laughing, pointing to her own mouth and circling her finger around it. 

Instantly Stella snapped her fingers, a mirror popping up in front of her, analyzing her face. Stella shrieked when she saw the sauce all over her face, rushing to grab her towel to rub it off. This caused an uproar in laughter from the girls as they watched their friend freak over some sauce on her. 

“Hello ladies, would you girls be interested in any drinks tonight? It is happy hour.” A buff looking male waiter asked the girls, who were just coming out of their laughing fit. 

“Oh yes, craft beer for me.” Musa said to the waiter who nodded and wrote down the order before looking at the girls.

“Same here.”

“A martini please.”

“Moscow Mule,”

“A Margarita,”

The girls listed off their drinks one by one until the waiter landed on Flora, his smile growing.

“What can I get you my pretty lady?” He asked the nature fairy who smiled softly, realizing he was calling her pretty. The girls knew Flora rarely ever drank but considering what’s going on, she might as well.

“An Aunt Roberta please.” 

The girls who were silently talking to each other whipped their heads at the name of the drink. They looked at Flora with wide eyes and their mouths hanging open. Even the waiter was taken aback at the order before writing it down.

“Wow, are you looking for an eventful night?” The waiter asked with a cheeky smile, implying that she could hang out with him.

“Nope, long month.” Flora replied politely, trying to turn him down nicely. The waiter turned red and nodded before turning around to go put in the orders.

“Flo, are you okay? Have you ever had that drink?” Musa asked, genuinely concerned at her friend's alcohol choice. 

“Yeah for real, you know that’s like 3 or 4 different alcohols with no mixer, a few sips you're gone.” Stella told her, still in shock. 

“Yes girls I know, I just need to relax fully for a night and sleep well.” Flora told them and they nodded understandingly.

Soon the waiter came back with all the drinks and gave them to the girls, his eyes lingering on Flora before quickly turning away to go to another table. The girls waited to drink theres as they watched the nature fairy take a sip, two, three, no four sips in a row, drinking a third of the drink already. Their mouths fell open when the nature fairy didn’t have a reaction to the drink.

“What the fuck, since when can you drink that much?!” Stella asked, completely dumbfounded. 

“On Lynphea drinks are very common, they are used in a lot of foods and of course for pleasure. I’ve been drinking since I was about seven, I just don’t do it often now. I built up a tolerance over the years.” Flora explained leaving her friends speechless once again.

“Who would’ve thought Flora is an alcoholic?” Musa commented as she took a sip of her beer causing everyone to laugh and Flora just gave a light eye roll.

Soon after about half an hour of drinking and talking, the girls were walking back to Alfea. Stella was swaying slightly, holding onto Bloom for support whilst Musa was guiding Flora. She wasn’t super bad but very tired, ready to just collapse into the pavement and sleep there. 

They finally reached the dorms and walked up to their apartment. They managed to get inside and Musa and Layla helped guide Flora to her bed and tucked her in. They grabbed the sleeping bags and put Stella in one before everyone else went to go change. Bloom got into her bed whilst the others went into their sleeping bags. Tecna was the last in as she locked the room and windows, putting up a firewall around the room just in case. She got into her sleeping bag and soon entered the land of dreams.

Or land of nightmares.

——————

Flora found herself walking in a lush forest, her hands brushing through the flowers. She felt so much joy as she listened to the plants talk to her. This was her happy place, walking in nature. She never wanted to leave it, the calmness and relaxation it brought her was pure.

Unfortunately that didn’t end long, and the nightmare truly began. The plants around the nature fairy soon began to wither and some even disintegrated before her eyes. Flora felt the pain of the plants around her, causing her to grow angry. How could someone harm life so precious and valuable?

“Thanatos, where are you?” Flora asked through the pile of dead plants as she continued walking, her heart breaking at the sight of the dead fauna. 

“Right here sweetheart.”

Flora’s body tensed when she felt the voice in her ear, making her spin around, her emerald eyes meeting those of ice. 

“Like what I did with the place?” He asked while pointing around to the dead forest.

“You are a monster.” Flora let out, her fists balled up.

“LUXURIOUS IVY!” Flora launched at him, catching the white haired man off guard, sending him into a crippling tree which broke upon impact and crumbled to dust. Thanatos got up slowly with a smile on his face.

“I am no more a monster than you Flora.”

Flora looked at him like he was crazy, she never tried to kill someone on purpose. She always tried to keep things alive.

“You and I are nothing alike.” Flora responded sharply, launching another one of her attacks, missing slightly.

“Oh but we are, you control the living, but you also control the dead.” He simply stated as he walked closer to the brunette.

“That’s a lie, I control nature.” Flora responded once more.

“Oh but Flora, in nature what is dead was once alive.” 

Flora clenched her jaw and threw another one of her attacks at Thanatos, hitting him square in the chest. Flora tried to throw another attack but suddenly felt really weak. She felt as if her powers were draining, and nothing was working. She stumbled back a few feet trying to catch her breath but by the time she looked up she was staring into icey blue eyes. Flora gulped as she came face to face with the man who wanted to harm her and couldn’t do anything about it. Flora tried backing up but was too slow because before she knew it a hand was in her throat, lifting her off the ground.

“You will soon perish, nature fairy.” Thanatos said as he began to squeeze on Flora's neck, causing her not to be able to breathe correctly. She struggled for air, not being given any oxygen as her feet dangled in the air. Soon she was having blurred vision and was struggling to stay awake. Flora felt her head starting to slip as she couldn’t keep it up any longer due to the lack of oxygen. Her eyes continued to flutter close, until she wasn’t sure if they were ever gonna open again.

“STAY AWAY FROM MY SISTER!”

Flora’s eyes snapped back open and soon felt herself falling to the ground. Her vision was severely blurred and could only make out a guy with seemingly brunette hair squaring off with Thanatos. Flora coughed a few times as she grabbed her throat but continued to look, her vision was slowly coming back and she would finally see who was there.

“FLORA!”

Flora turned her head weakly to see Musa staring at her.

“WAKE UP FLORA!” She screamed out and Flora was confused as to what was happening until she realized she was in a nightmare.

She had to wake up.

——— 

“WAKE UP FLORA!” Musa screamed at her friend who was out cold, glowing a dark shade of green as her own hands were around her throat and squeezing. 

“Why won’t she wake up?!” Bloom half shouted as she tried shaking her roommate out of her nightmare. The girls woke up to Flora’s shifting and came to the sight that is present before them.

Soon Flora’s eyes snapped open as she sat up, her hands reaching for her throat as she tried to breathe in oxygen, gasping for breath. Bloom immediately pulled Flora into a hug, holding her close as she ran her hands through her hair to soothe the girl who was mid freakout. After a few moments, Flora started to calm down and looked at her friends who were eyeing her, not knowing what to say or do from that point on. 

Instead Flora spoke for them.

“I think I have a brother.”

Chapter Text

“A brother?” Ms. Faragonda questioned as she adjusted her glasses when looking at the nature fairy before her.

“Yes ma’am. At least I think so. Everything was so blurry but I remember the guy yelling at Thanatos to stay away from my sister.” Flora told the headmistress of last night's nightmare she had. 

“Interesting, Flora, are you aware of having a brother?”

The headmistress asked the nature fairy and Flora shook her head.

“No, it’s always just been Meile and I. Mom and dad never spoke of us having a brother.” Flora told her truthfully. 

There’s no way she could have a brother, it’s just not possible. Unless her parents lied? But they would never do that to her. It was a nightmare after all, maybe it was wishful thinking of something she wished she had.

“Okay, I’m currently not aware of you being related to anyone that you don’t already know of. I recommend having a call with your parents to be sure.” She told the nature fairy who nodded and stood up from her chair. 

She smiled at the headmistress before saying her goodbyes and walking out of the office. She closed her eyes as she took a deep breath, her hands moving up to her neck, still feeling the tenderness from the night before. She lowered her hands as she began her walk across the courtyard and into her dormitory building. She opened the door and nearly jumped out of her skin when she saw her roommates sitting there patiently, waiting for her, she guessed.

“How did it go?”

“Do you have a brother?”

“Stella!?”

“What? Oh sorry.”

“Are you okay?”

Flora let out the breath she didn’t realize she was holding.

“I’m not sure, but I do have a phone call to make to find out.” She told the girls as she began walking past them and into her own room, closing the door behind her. She turned around and leaned against the door, tilting her head up where it rested on the oak door.

“You can do this Flora, a simple call to your parents. You do this all the time, it’s no different. Only this time you would be finding out information that could alter your whole life. I’d rather be fighting Valtor right about now instead” She whispered to herself.

How lovely

She reached her hand into her pocket as she sat down at her desk, dialing her fathers number before propping the phone up against one of her potted plants. Soon a face emerged on the screen and she saw the smiling face of her father, his beard still as scrappy as always.

“That’s my beautiful daughter, how are you sweetie?” Her father asked, making her heart melt, her dad was the prime reason that her standards were so high with men.

“I’m doing alright dad, is mom there?” She responded to her father before asking her question of which her father nodded and called her mother into frame.

“Hey sweetie, how are you?” Her mother asked, taking off her apron and putting it aside as she sat down next to her husband.

“I’m.. I’m okay. I’m… uh.. calling to ask you guys about something.” Flora stuttered a little as she spoke, making her parents look at each other.

“You can ask us anything you know.” Her mother told her with an encouraging smile.

“Okay, but promise you will tell me the whole truth.” She responded as she bit her lip.

“Of course sweetheart, now shoot.” Her father responded smiling.

“Do I have a brother?” 

Flora watched as both her parents went from smiling to a mix of shock and as Bloom would call it, a deer in the headlights look.

“Sweetie…”

Flora's eyes widened at this realization, she did in fact have a brother. Why was she never told?

“Wait this is real? Why didn’t you tell me?!” Flora responded, her voice sounding a little bit harsher than intended.

“We never wanted to tell you after what happened. It was too hard for us and we didn’t want to hurt you. Flora honey, you were a twin.” Her mother told her and in those few words Flora’s eyes faltered and her heart shattered.

“What? I had a twin, what happened, where is he?” Flora asked, her eyes pleading for an answer as she looked at her parents. Her father wrapped his arm around her mother as they held each other's hand.

“Honey, when you were born, our village was going through a famine, there were riots, things were not as good as they are now. After your mother gave birth to you both, you were separated for different needs. You needed more oxygen so we went with you whilst they went to clean your brother up. The next thing we knew, the hospital went up in flames. A riot broke out, I couldn’t leave you and your mother until things calmed down in our section and by the time I got to where your brother was, he was no longer there but the room was in flames. We still don’t know what happened to him. We… we never got to even name him. We assumed he was killed in the riot, a few people were due to the fires that were never found.”

By the time Flora's father finished telling the story, Flora had tears streaming down her face. She had a brother, who was assumed dead.

A twin brother.

“We didn’t want to relive that pain over and over nor did we want to burden you by explaining you were the surviving twin. We came to peace with it but how did you find this out?” Her mother told her truthfully, a tear falling down her cheek.

“I just had a dream that I had a brother, I just thought I’d ask to give me relief. I didn’t think it would be true.” Flora lied, of course she wasn’t going to tell her parents she was now one of the strongest fairies in the universe not to mention someone was trying to kill her in a weird and sadistic way. 

“I’m so sorry you had to find out like this honey, we didn’t want to hurt you. We should have told you earlier but didn’t. We are so sorry.” Her father told her, and Flora could see how broken his face became, he had to make the decision to stay instead of going to her brother. A decision that had to haunt him for years.

“It’s..it’s okay. But I gotta go, the girls are calling me, love you both and tell Miele I miss her. But please let her know as well.” Flora told her parents who nodded and said their goodbyes before ending the call. 

Flora let out a shaky breath as she turned her phone down and stood up, she felt another flow of tears as she tried to walk to her bed, her vision blurred and suddenly her legs felt weak. She felt her knees give in and  ended up collapsing onto the ground as she began to sob. She felt like she lost something she never had. It killed her inside. Flora felt a soft pair of hands wrap around her and pull her into a hug and the nature fairy clung to them like her life depended on it. She sniffled, smelling the familiar perfume of Musa, knowing it was her who was holding her. She felt other hands playing with her hair and rubbing her back whilst hearing the whispers of the others around her but she didn’t care. She soon heard the soft lullaby that Musa began to sing, the one her mom sang to her before she passed. Flora found comfort in it as she snuggled up closer into Musa’s lap, focusing on the music before finding herself into a deep yet relaxing sleep.

—————————

Musa woke up to a very stiff neck and a sore back. She moved her limbs around to stretch out, realizing she may have fallen asleep as well. She looked down into her lap to see that Flora was gone and she felt a panic rise within her. She looked around her friend's room to see the others all sleeping as well. Musa stood up and quietly left the room where she found Flora cooking something in the kitchen. 

“Hey Flo.” Musa said as she walked over and took a seat at the island. 

“Hey.” The nature fairy replied softly, not looking up from the vegetables she was cutting.

“Flora…. Flora?” Musa questioned, trying to get her friend's attention who seemed to be in a whole different dimension.

“What?” Flora asked, her response coming off harsher than intended, looking up where Musa could see her red puffy eyes.

“Are you okay?”

Flora stopped cutting her vegetables and put her hands on the table as she looked down before looking back at her roommate.

“I do have a brother, or at least I did. A twin actually.” Flora told her softly as she looked back down at her cutting board. 

Musa’s eyes widened at her friend's news and she stood up. She walked over to Flora and wrapped her arms around her from the back and leaned her head on her shoulder.

“Flora I am so sorry.” Musa told her and she felt Flora take in a shaky breath. 

“Thanks. I mean he was assumed dead apparently after I was born. He didn’t even get a name yet.” Flora told her friend who squeezed her even tighter. 

Eventually Flora ended up telling Musa the whole story and the music fairy felt her heart break for her friend. Losing a family member is something she knew all too well and it was still painful to her but she couldn’t imagine losing someone she didn’t even get to know, let alone not know that they existed.

“But if he’s in your dreams, does that mean there’s a chance he survived?” Musa questioned, because if he showed up in her dream does that mean he is having those dreams too?

“I dunno, I mean I guess it’s a possibility. But I don’t know anything about him, he’s a brunette, that’s all I have to go off of. There are millions of brunettes in the magic dimension, it’s like trying to find a pin in a haystack.” Flora told her as she walked over to the couch and sat down. 

“Yeah, but maybe when you have more of those dream links, you will be able to see a face. That could help a lot.” Musa reassured her and the nature fairy nodded.

“I will see, hopefully won’t have those dreams for at least a few days.” Flora told her, truthfully she was exhausted and when she just took her nap in Musa’s lap, it was probably the best sleep she’s had in a few weeks.

“Everything will work out, you know that.” Musa told her and Flora nodded, she wanted to believe her friend but that nagging voice was just saying things may not.

She could only hope she was wrong.

—————

“Hey babe, how are you?” Sky asked his girlfriend as they were video chatting. 

Bloom's face lit up when she saw the blondes, her whole mood changing in an instant. She loved how he had that effect on her. 

“I’m alright, it’s been a long day.” Bloom told her boyfriend as she leaned her head on her pillow, watching Flora have her breakdown earlier really broke her heart.

Though she did understand a bit of Flora’s pain, after all she was also adopted and never realized she had real parents who were also presumed dead. Bloom knew that Flora was going to need help getting through this and she was at least thankful she could help Flora with it as no one else really understands.

“Is everything okay?” Sky asked his girlfriend when he noticed she went quiet and Bloom nodded.

“Yeah, sort of. Flora found out a clue in one of her recent dreams. She found out that she had a brother which she thought was false because she didn’t have one. Well turns out she did and he was presumed dead. He was also her twin and the heartbreaking part was that her brother didn’t even get a chance to be named.” Bloom told Sky whose eyes widened at the news.

“Holy shit, that's some heavy stuff. Tell Flora that I am here for her if she needs it. She will get through this Bloom, don’t you worry.” Sky told his girlfriend, trying to reassure her.

“I know she will, but it is so different when it isn’t you being targeted. I mean I always was and I would be reckless to protect everyone but now I see what you all meant by wanting to protect me. I want to protect Flora too, but I am scared she won’t want it, you know how she is.” Bloom confessed as she let out a sigh.

“Oh I know how you acted, and I know and recognize that Flora is going to be the same, possibly worse. Sorry, I didn’t mean it like that, but everyone here knows that Flora is the most selfless person.” Sky responded and Bloom nodded in agreement.

“That’s what I’m afraid of.”

“Well whatever is to come, we will be in Flora’s corner and I will personally behead any pale faced freak that goes near her.” Sky assured Bloom, making the redhead smile, she loved how protective her boyfriend really was especially of her friends.

“But moving on from the world is ending talk, we always seem to have that every year, but how about you and me go out tomorrow for a nice little date. There's this new restaurant I have been wanting to take you to.” Sky asked his girlfriend, moving on from the topic everyone seemed to be dreading and Bloom’s face lit up.

“Oh my goodness, yes! A day out with you would be perfect, we haven’t been able to get as much time together as I would have liked.” Bloom told him and Sky smiled at that.

“Perfect, I will pick you up at like 2, we have training in the morning and I will need some time to get ready and we can go walk around and shop before eating.” Sky told her and Bloomed nodded in agreement.

“I will see you at two then, love you!” Bloom said to her boyfriend before ending the call with a massive smile on her face. She put her phone on her nightstand before turning over in her bed as she looked at the ceiling, wondering what she would wear for her date tomorrow.

Chapter Text

Brandon walked out of the bathroom with shorts on and a towel around his neck as he walked to his bed. He looked over to see Sky putting on a button-down shirt in the mirror.

“Are you going out with Bloom again?” The brunette asked as he dried his hair and threw his towel on the bed. He walked over to his dresser and grabbed a t-shirt to throw over his head.

“Unfortunately no, yesterday was great with her but I have an Eraklyon meeting to attend instead. But Bloom and I are going out again later this week.” Sky told his friend as he picked up one of his watches to put on his wrist.

“That sounds like a lot of fun,” Brandon responded with a small smile as he knew Sky hated these types of meetings.

“Oh yeah, so much. But you should go out with Stella soon, I think all the girls are over-stressed. It’ll be good for her.” Sky explained to his friend as he walked over to his closet to grab a black coat.

“Yeah, I really need to. I only talked to her a couple of times today, but are they that bad?” Brandon asked his best friend who nodded at the question.

“Yeah, I mean the girls are all worried, and Flora's dreams are turning violent. She just found some heavy stuff, and it’s like we have to wait for Thanato's next move.” Sky responded, putting his coat on and adjusting the collar.

“Yeah, I guess. Man, I just hate how this is all happening. I mean it’s crazy that it’s Flora too, like out of everyone, why the sweetest one? I love all the girls, but man you know Flora. She doesn’t deserve any of this.” Brandon confessed, hating how he felt so defenseless for the nature fairy. Sky stopped what he was doing and looked at Brandon who was sitting on the bed, looking at the ground. He walked over and pulled up a desk chair and sat down.

“I know it’s hard Brandon, we all love Flora. But what we need to do is protect her and we will. I will give my life for her if I have to. Look, after what I did under Valtors control with my dragon, I still struggle to forgive myself. Flora’s forgiveness wasn’t genuine and I know, I know she sometimes will back off me sometimes after the trauma I put her through. I still am trying to make up for it and I don’t think I ever will, but believe me when I say we will protect her, I will protect her. We just have to wait for Thanatos to strike again and if we are there, he’s done for.” Sky told his friend truthfully.

It was common knowledge for everyone that what happened years ago with Valtor still held its weight, especially for the young Prince and the nature fairy. Even if Flora forgave him for nearly taking her wings and life, he couldn’t forgive himself.

“You know it wasn’t you back then. It wasn’t you-“

“Regardless it was still me. That’s still traumatizing for her. It sucks but I’m going to continue to do everything I can for her.” Sky cut him off as he leaned back into his chair.

“I know. But what if we fail? Fuck, Sky, Flora is our glue. What do we do if we…. We can’t lose her.” Brandon told him as he looked down at his knees, clasping his hands together.

“We won’t. It’s like that superhero movie series they have on Earth, something like the Earth's mightiest heroes I think. We’re like that, the magical dimension's mightiest heroes. We always pull through and we still will. We got this, don’t stress over it, man.” Sky told him as he stood up and placed a gentle hand on the brunette's shoulder, giving it a light squeeze.

“I do have to run, but go hang out with Stella. Shoot maybe even go on a double date or something. Clear your head a bit ya hear?” Sky told his squire who nodded and watched the blonde walk out of the room.

Brandon stood up and walked to his desk to get his phone, scrolling to find Stella’s contact before typing up a message.

Hey, wanna go get some food and walk around Magix? Maybe try to double-date with Flora and Helia?

Brandon sent the message and put his phone down. He walked over to grab the chair Sky moved and placed it back at his desk. He then threw the towel on his bed in the laundry before turning at the sound of his phone going off. He walked over and smiled as he read the text.

O M G YES!!! That’s an amazing idea, snookums! I just asked Flora and she is in if Helia is. Can’t wait to see you x

He shot her a quick text before walking out of his room and into the common space where Helia was drawing a picture on the couch next to Timmy who was playing a driving simulator next to him.

“Helia go get changed, you and I are going on a double date with Flora and Stella.” He announced and the long-haired specialist looked up at him and gave a smile as he put down a paintbrush and stood up.

“That sounds awesome. I’ll go get changed, be out in five minutes.” Helia told Brandon who nodded and turned back to go into his own room.

Brandon went and grabbed a pullover quarter zip sweater and threw it on before changing into a pair of jeans and throwing on some old shoes before walking out. He spotted Helia already out with a sweater with a long coat and some jeans on.

“Go have some fun you two. If you go to Rita's, grab me a slice of pie!” Timmy said to the pair as they headed out before drinking a bit of his soda out of the straw next to him, his eyes not leaving the tv screen.

————

“Okay, I think I am in a food coma now.” Stella let out as the group of four began their walk around Magix after eating their dinner as a group.

The night was going amazingly as the four just let loose, ate some good food, and had a couple of drinks. Brandon had his left hand intertwined with Stella’s and in his right hand was a bag with a slice of cherry pie for Timmy that he picked up at Rita’s when they passed it. Flora and Helia were just behind them, walking a little slower as they walked together, their hands also intertwined.

“Did you enjoy dinner my flower?” Helia asked his girlfriend who nodded at the question.

“Yeah, it was really good! I loved being with you three, especially you.” Flora told him and Helia’s eyes lit up at her words, pulling her in for a side hug as he kissed her forehead, making Flora blush a little bit.

“Hey, you guys wanna go see a movie?” Brandon asked as he spun around and began to walk backward as he looked at the couple before him.

Flora looked up at Helia who shrugged his shoulders, the two nodded their heads and the group headed towards the cinema down the street. They bought their tickets and walked into the theater leaving Flora and Stella to go get their seats while Helia and Brandon went to get some popcorn and drinks. Flora and Stella found seats towards the top and sat down, placing their bags in the seats next to them to reserve for their boyfriends.

“Tonight is absolutely perfect, isn’t it Flo?” Stella beamed as she leaned into her leather chair making Flora chuckle at the blonde’s words.

“It's been great to get out again and I think it’s been a great distraction. I haven’t had this much fun in a little bit.” Flora told her friend who nodded at her words.

“How are you doing though, for real?” Stella asked as she sat up and looked into the jaded eyes of Flora who shrugged and sighed slightly.

“I mean, it has been tough. There isn’t much that I can do, I was able to sleep last night which was amazing. I guess just trying to be positive through all of this.” Flora told the Solarian princess who nodded softly.

“We will get through this, Thanatos ain’t gonna know what hit him when I get to him. Give me five minutes with him and oh he is going to be screaming for mommy and daddy.” Stella told her friend, causing her to laugh.

Even if they both knew it wasn’t going to be that easy, it was nice to know that they could still make the situation less frightening. They continued to talk about other things when some random guy with messy brown hair walked up to them.

“Are you two lovely ladies alone tonight?” The guy asked the duo, his voice deeper than anticipated.

“Uh no, we are here with our boyfriends,” Stella told him with a smile, hoping he would just walk off after the answer.

“Aw what a shame, but you two could ditch them and come with me instead. Surely I could be a better time.” He responded with a smirk as he reached down to touch Stella’s hand.

“Don’t touch me,” Stella asked as she yanked her hand away her eyes narrowing at the guy in front of her.

“Aw come on baby, you know we would have a great time.” He pressed as he reached for Stella once more.

“If you touch me again I will blast you into the seventh sun and then send you to Oblivion afterward.” Stella let out, her hand raised and glowing sending the guy into a mix of shock and horror.

“Uh.. I..”

“Don’t you look at the news? That is the Princess of Solaria.” Flora chimed in, a smile on her face as she watched the man back up slightly.

“And this right here is Flora, you know Guardian Fairy of Nature, better run off before she grabs you by the vines and swallows you into the ground whole. Certainly not as peaceful as what I would do.” Stella finished as she leaned back into her seat, looking at her nails while the guy backed up even more until he bumped into something or someone.

“Or you could have my sword slice you to shreds if you prefer that option too.”

The guy turned around to see Brandon inches from him, his arms crossed while Helia was behind him holding the popcorn, popping a piece into his mouth. The guy yelped before rushing past him and out of the theater.

“Are you girls okay?” Brandon asked as he took a seat next to Stella as he looked her over whilst Helia went to sit next to Flora.

“Flora, are you alright?” Helia asked his girlfriend who nodded and leaned her head on his shoulder.

“Yeah, Stella really told him off,” Flora replied as she picked her head up and looked at her friend who smiled.

“Good, my girl is a baddie,” Brandon said as he smiled and pulled her in close to him as they waited for the movie to start.

————

He smiled as he watched the nature fairy walk across Magix, acting as if nothing was ever wrong. He looked away from his hologram and the three witches next to him were smirking.

“Time for another appearance?” The green-haired witch asked as she crossed her arms in question.

“Yes. In three days' time. Let’s have some fun with it.” The man responded as he went to sit down and leaned into his chair as he watched the nature fairy laugh.

She had no idea what was coming…

Chapter Text

Musa was walking with Riven through the quad of Alfea, and the two engaged in yet another one of their little quarrels.

“You seriously can’t stay over tonight?” Musa asked with an irritated voice whilst Riven shook his head.

“No. I have things to do.” Riven responded sharply, making the music fairy roll her eyes.

“You always have stuff to do, we can never hang out anymore,” Musa complained as she looked at her boyfriend, crossing her arms.

“Look, I’m sorry but you know I have a busy life. I have extra specialist training to do in the morning.” Riven told her as he shrugged his shoulders, not thinking it was a big deal.

“All the other guys make time for their girlfriends, you can take an afternoon off from training,” Musa told him truthfully.

“I need to be prepared, a war is coming Musa,” Riven responded as he stopped walking and looked at her.

“Yeah, but what’s the point in fighting if you don’t spend time with what is worth fighting for,” Musa said, looking up at him and watching as Riven’s mouth opened to respond but instead shut, quieting the magenta-haired specialist.

“My point exactly,” Musa said as she shook her head sadly and looked down at her feet.

Musa felt Riven’s hands grab her shoulders, his left hand cupping the bottom of her chin, tilting her head up to look into his eyes. His other hand dropped down to her hand as he carefully grabbed it, giving it a light squeeze before rubbing his thumb across her knuckles.

“Look, how about next week we see a movie?” Riven asked, looking down at her, hoping to please the music fairy, and smiled when he saw her eyes light up at his question. Riven wanted to spend time with Musa, but things were heating up and he wanted to be ready

“Of course! Thank you for finally coming around.” Musa said as she wrapped her arms around her boyfriend, catching him off guard until he returned the hug, leaning his chin on her head, breathing in her perfume.

“I would love to stay but I really do have to go, I’ll see you soon Musa,” Riven said as he pulled away from his girlfriend but not before leaning in to give her a quick kiss before waving goodbye.

Riven made his way toward his hoverbike, grabbed his helmet and he turned to look back at Musa who was making her way towards the entrance of her dorms. He smiled at her and turned back around to his bike and turned it on, and began to put on his helmet.

Just before he could put it on he felt his body shift as the ground began to rumble, dropping his helmet in the process as he heard a loud crash go off behind him. Riven turned around and to his horror saw Musa standing just feet away from Thanatos with the Trix behind him. Riven didn’t realize he was running until he came to a halt as he watched a bright light fly straight into Musa, who still wasn’t transformed, right into a small oak tree, snapping on impact. Riven’s breath hitched as he saw his girlfriend unmoving, her body pinned by the tree before snapping his attention towards the man responsible for it. He unsheathed his phantom blade as he charged the white-haired male before him, striking down on the man’s shoulder, slicing it on impact. Thanatos stumbled slightly, before slowly turning towards the specialist, watching as the Trix prepared spells to throw at him but waved them off.

“Trying to play hero boy?” Thanatos asked, chuckling a bit at his own question while Riven gripped his blade, his eyes filled with fire.

Just as Riven came down with another attack, Thanatos sidestepped, grabbed the specialist by the arm, and shoved him to the ground.

“I would advise you not to play with the big boys.” Thanatos gave him a warning, one that Riven did not bother to listen to.

Thanatos just sighed as Riven came in for another swing and this time Thanatos muttered a quick spell, stunning Riven giving him enough time to grab the specialist's phantom blade and turned it on the specialist, slicing him down his side, making Riven fall to the ground in pain.

“Fighting with rage is always a losing battle.” He simply whispered as he knelt down to the magenta-haired specialist, giving him a light smile before standing up. Just before walking off, he turned around and kicked Riven hard in the ribs, sending him rolling, leaving a blood trail behind him. Riven groaned in pain as he looked up, watching as Thanatos made his way towards the music fairy, and Riven tried to get up, but failed, his body refusing to move.

“Musa…” Riven let out, fear taking over as he watched Thanatos hover over her.

He looked at his girlfriend who was still unconscious on the ground, and he desperately tried to get up but felt pain soar through his side at any small movement. He looked down at the ground to see a pool of blood from underneath him and went to grip his side, feeling the liquid substance immediately. He looked back up at the scene before him, his eyes fluttering and his vision going fuzzy as he tried to watch what was going on. The noise seemed to deafen as he tried to stay awake, his body fighting against the darkness. He eventually managed to see a bright light fly over but soon felt his body being turned over, his eyes meeting the dark-skinned girl with cerulean eyes until he saw nothing at all.

------------

“DRAGON FURY” Bloom screamed as she flew to the horror scene, her attack directly hitting the Trix, knocking them down instantly.

“LIGHT OF SOLARIA” Stella yelled out, a bright light shooting at Thanatos which sent him flying back into a building.

Stella looked over at Bloom whose eyes were glowing a dark shade of orange and you could almost see the steam that was radiating off her. The blonde turned her head to where Musa had fallen watching as Flora spelled the tree off of her and tended to the music fairy whilst Tecna stood protectively in front of them. She could still see that Musa was still unconscious and could spot bits of red surrounding her, making Stella build up in rage. She turned back around to see Thanatos getting back up and slamming his hands together where a black light started to form.

“Let’s see how you like a bit of the dark sun fairy,” Thanatos said as he shot the black light toward her and Stella barely had enough time to dodge the attack.

“Mythic fire!”

Stella watched as Thanatos was shot out to the side causing him to stumble forward and watched as Bloom had fire bursting from her hands. She continued launching fire attacks at the white-haired man sending him farther backward until he fell to the ground. To Stella’s horror, she watched as Thanatos managed to shoot out another blast, hitting Bloom square in the chest, and knocking her off her feet.

“No!” Stella screamed as she launched a few more of her spells at him as well. A few managed to hit him but he still managed to get up, his right arm holding his left, blood dripping down his face, and yet he still smiled.

It was sickening.

“Death’s Light,” He said in a low tone, sending it directly her way and she watched as everything in the path was being blinded with light until it hit Stella square on, completely blinding her as she stumbled back. All she could see was white, but she didn’t know what was happening and her head felt like it could explode.

“Icicle fury.” Stella heard Icy’s words just as her sight started to come back to her until she felt something sharp slice into her abdomen causing her to let out a grunt. She managed to look down and see an icicle sticking out of her stomach, deep red forming around it making her eyes bulge. She looked over to her right to see Icy on the ground but her hand was outstretched still from the attack she just launched. The sun fairy took a step forward until her legs gave in and she fell to her knees.

“Looks like you are in a little pickle or an icicle,” Thanatos said as he began to walk over, a smile on his face.

“ANDROS HURRICANE!”

Stella watched as Thanatos was slammed with water, falling back into another building once again. Stella laid her hand out and she ended up falling to the ground and onto her side as she put pressure on her wound. Fortunately, she did not feel a lot of pain, only numbness which she was grateful for. Soon she felt hands clutching her arm and soon her stomach wound and through her flickering vision she managed to see Layla crouched above her.

“Stella you stay awake for me okay,” Layla begged as she began muttering some words to try to heal parts of her wound. Stella tried to keep her eyes open but she felt a wave of tiredness she's never felt before and soon gave in until all she saw was black.

-----------------------------------------

Flora was still trying to wake Musa up who was finally coming around until she heard a scream behind her and turned around to see Stella on the ground with Layla next to her. She managed to see the icicle sticking out of the blonde's stomach and Flora’s eyes widened. She turned her head to see Bloom back on her feet, launching more attacks at the Trix, specifically at Icy. Flora looked the other way to see Riven still on the ground unmoving before turning back to see Thanatos making his way back towards Layla and Stella.

“Tecna, stay with Musa,” Flora said to the pink-haired fairy who nodded and kneeled down next to her friend instantly.

“THANATOS,” Flora screamed as she stood up, her hands fisted as she made her way towards the taller pale man.

“Ah, Flora, it’s about time you stopped hiding behind your friends,” Thanatos said simply as he stopped walking and turned to face the brunette.

“Stop this Thanatos,” Flora said as she walked in front of Musa and Tecna protectively, her body growing a light green.

“But see, where's the fun in that? I like to create chaos and destruction. But I will say, doing it to your friends is quite the treat.” Thanatos said as he waved his arm around, showing off the damage he's done so far.

“I’m not gonna ask again,” Flora responded confidently, a different look to the always quiet and calm girl.

“And what are you going to do about it? You are weak Flora, the weakest link might I add. I hit a little bit of nature and you falter. You practically are nature…. I like to destroy it.” The pale-faced man said as he turned back towards the nature fairy with a sadistic smile.

With that Thanatos ended up sending a spell towards a tree, instantly snapping it in half which sent a sharp pain through Flora’s veins but she refused to let Thanatos see that. Instead, she looked back at her friends, Aisha who was frantically trying to help Stella, Bloom who was struggling against the Trix, and Musa who was behind her attempting to sit up with the help of Tecna. She grew angry and the light green surrounding her slowly turned darker until it was black.

“Remember when you said death was all things once living, well let's experiment then,” Flora said, her voice filled with malice which made Thanatos raise his eyebrows.

“Kiss of death,” Flora whispered as she launched a spell at him almost as if black tendrils launched towards him and on impact exploded sending him flying into a tree.

Flora continued to bombard Thanatos into the ground, refusing to let him get up until she felt a blast into her side, sending her flying into the pavement. She groaned as she pushed up onto her knees and turned her head to see the Trix now next to Thanatos making alarm bells go off in Flora’s head. She looked around until she spotted Bloom on the ground slowly making her way back to her feet. Flora pushed herself onto her feet and ran over to Bloom who already had Layla helping her up.

“Convergence?” Flora asked and Bloom and Layla nodded, both two busy on not dying to even realize Flora’s color change, and the three of them came together as they faced the four foes.

“WINX CONVERGENCE!” They screamed and sent a heavy blast into the four of them sending them all different ways into the ground. All four were slow to rise and Thanatos looked at the Trix and nodded.

This did not stop the girls as they continued to launch spells at them sending the farther backward until Bloom and Layla began to stop due to fatigue. Flora on the other hand was on next-level energy and continued moving forward with blasts. She managed to send Stormy flying into Darcy and Icy and they hit the ground next to Thanatos.

“This is the last warning, leave.” Flora let out, feeling the drip of blood fall off her lips as she spoke. She saw Thanatos eyes look back at the Trix and then back at her and he just nodded.

“You put up a good fight, I’m impressed. Maybe you will be a harder challenge for what's to come.” He said and with that, he flicked his fingers and the four of them disappeared into the smoke. Flora let out her breath and felt herself stumbling backward. She was about to hit the ground when a soft pair of arms held her steady and slowly guided her to the ground.

“It’s okay Flo, I got you.” She recognized Layla’s voice and gave into her arms, the fatigue starting to hit her full-on. That is until she realized what happened and her eyes snapped open.

“Stel? Musa? Riven??” She let out as she began to sit up and she saw Bloom kneeling next to Stella, using her Dragon Flame to help heal her friend whilst Musa was on her feet but leaning fully on Tecna for support as they limped over to Riven who had other professors looking at him.

“I need to help,” Flora whispered as she got to her feet and began walking over until she started swaying a few steps in and Layla grabbed her once more.

“You need to sit down Flora, help is coming. You just need to relax, you used too much power already and you are drained.” Layla told her, guiding her friend to the ground.

Flora felt all the trees and plants crying out in pain due to the fire around her, yet all Flora could do was sit helplessly as she watched the destruction all around her.

Chapter Text

“I’m sorry but you still cannot see them yet,” Nurse Ofelia said to the brunette-haired specialist who clenched his jaw at the news.

“But that’s my girlfriend in there!” Brandon responded out of anger as he pointed past the nurse to the room behind where his girlfriend was being treated. All he could hear was people shouting which scared him half to death. Brandon felt a pair of arms grab hold of him and drag him back over to the others sitting in chairs. 

“Relax man, they will let you see her when they can.” Brandon heard Sky say into his ear as he felt himself being guided into a seat where Brandon ran a hand through his hair. 

“I just need to know if she’s okay.” Brandon let out as he looked down, his eyes blurring as tears began to fill his vision. Sky just sat down next to him and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder, giving it a light squeeze before looking up at his girlfriend who was seated across the room. He could tell that Bloom was barely holding it together, hair a mess, eyes bloodshot, and cuts littering her face. 

Some of the guys were still out doing damage control but Sky, Brandon, and Helia were able to come in and be with their girlfriends and provide support. Aisha was pacing the room whilst Tecna was looking up medical statistics trying to ease her mind. Helia sat next to Flora, just staring off into space, almost as if she wasn’t even there. Aside from the exhaustion, Flora didn't need much treatment and was able to be with the others.

Another hour passed by before Nurse Ofelia came out to address the group. She looked exhausted from all the treatment she was giving out but her facial expression was unreadable. No one knew if that was a good or bad sign. 

“Musa is resting now but she will make a full recovery, a few broken ribs that we managed to heal, and now all it is, is some major bone bruising. She just needs to stay off her feet for a few days to rest and then she should be good to go. Riven was a little more complicated after he lost quite a bit of blood but we managed to give him some transfusions and he should be waking up in a little bit.” Nurse Ofelia told the group who sighed in relief at the good news of their friends. 

“What about Stella?” Brandon asked as he stood up, worry in his eyes as they darted back and forth, trying to read the nurse’s face. 

“Stella…. She’s in a more critical state.” Nurse Ofelia said carefully, watching as the group’s relaxed faces quickly turn back to fear and worry. 

Brandon felt all the blood drain from his face, as he gripped the wall to his side for support. The love of his life was in critical condition and he may not see her again, he was meant to protect her and he wasn’t even there. 

He failed her.

“Critical?” Bloom choked out, tears falling freely now as she heard the news of her best friend, the girl who brought her here in the first place.

“Unfortunately, yes. She has been touch and go for the past few hours, we have a few more procedures we would like to perform. Right now she is responding well to medication and we are hopeful for some good news soon.” She finished off, her voice wavering as she is operating on a girl she’s known for years, and became friends even. 

Brandon slid down the wall at the news and put his head into his knees as he held the back of his head, wishing for everything to go away and go back to normal. Helia took this time to sit beside Brandon and rubbed his back whilst Sky brought Bloom in for a hug as she began to sob. Aisha sat down for a moment, feeling the reality of everything around her hitting as tears started to fall, Tecna sitting next to her, holding onto her hand. Flora silently stood up and walked out of the lobby to the outside where she breathed in the fresh air around her. 

Flora looked around at the damage that happened from the attack and her eyes darkened. This was all because of her, her school was ruined because of her, and her friends were hurt because of her. So much damage was happening because of her. 

She wasn’t going to let it happen again.

Flora walked across the school where the training room was still intact. She knew she was still too drained to transform so she opted for a sword instead and got to work. She knew how to hold a sword due to her upbringing at home and started swinging at the training dummies. 

She won’t stop until Thanatos is dead.

Swoosh

She won’t let her friends get hurt because of her again.

Schwing

This is all her fault. Flora threw the sword she was using into the wall before gripping the sides of her hair with her hands. Tears started to flood out of her eyes as she slid down the wall. Sobs etched her mouth as she shoved her head into her knees, her cries filled the room.

This happened because of her.

——————

“Let me go see my girlfriend!” Riven half shouted as he sat up in his bed, seconds away from ripping out his IV. He’s been asking for an hour to go check on Musa but they weren’t letting him budge.

“Riven, do you understand you were just stabbed hours ago? You’ll fully recover, but we don’t want you to stress your body out further.” One of the nurses told the magenta-haired specialist who crossed his arms in response.

“You’re stressing my body out more by not letting me see her.” Riven shot back.

“We told you, your girlfriend is okay and will be okay.” The nurse replied as she looked over Rivne’s injury once more.

“But seeing how well everything has healed, I’ll walk u to her room. I just need to double-check and make sure nothing is going to puncture.” The nurse continued as she inspected Riven’s injury once more.

“Thank you,” Riven whispered as he sat back and let the nurse do her final glance over. Within fifteen minutes Riven was being wheeled out of his room and into his girlfriends. 

Riven watched as Musa’s eyes lit up as she watched her boyfriend being wheeled into her room. Musa sat up straighter as her boyfriend rolled to her bedside, her hand outstretched for him which he gladly took.

“Riven… you’re okay! God, I woke up, and I saw you unmoving across the quad. I was so scared.” Musa let out as she squeezed her boyfriend's hand, tears beginning to fall.

“It’s alright Muse, I’m alright. Thank god that you’re alright as well. I’m sorry Musa…. I couldn’t protect you.” Riven confessed as he held his girlfriend's hand, but refused to meet the raven-haired girl's eyes. 

“Riven…. Riv… look at me. You didn’t fail me, okay, don’t think like that.” Musa said to her boyfriend as she leaned in closer to his face and rested her forehead on his whilst cupping his face. 

“I love you, Musa.” He said to her softly bringing a tear to Musa’s eye. 

“I love you too.” She replied and the two stayed together for a moment, just breathing in each other's air, nothing else around them mattered.

“Hey, Musa?” Riven whispered to his girlfriend who hummed a yeah in response.

“I think we may need to reschedule our movie date.” Riven let out a small smile on his face as he watched Musa’s soft expression break as she busted out into laughs which led to Riven laughing as well.

“We could always do a movie night inside the dorms?” Musa asked as she gave a hopeful smile to her boyfriend who bit his lip for a moment before nodding slowly.

“Yeah, that could work Muse.” He replied, smiling at his girlfriend as he held her in his hand. The two stayed together for the night, the nurse allowing for Riven’s bed to be transported into the room so he could stay near his girl. 

He wasn’t going to let anything happen to her again.

-------------------

“We have some good news.” The nurse said as she walked out of the infirmary doors to look at the group. 

Brandon shot up, the sleepiness instantly leaving his eyes as he waited for the news. Many hours have passed since the last update and the winx and the guys settled into the waiting area, refusing to leave until they heard about Stella. Many went in and out to go check on RIven and Musa, filling them in on everything, which led to them freaking out about their friend. 

Sky and Bloom were holding each other's hands, giving each other a comforting squeeze as they waited for the news. Aisha was seated on the ground, leaning against Nabu who was playing with her hair before the couple stood up together. Timmy had his arm around Tecna’s waist as they mentally prepared themselves for the news to follow whilst Flora was staring at the nurse with Helia attempting to hold his girlfriend's hand who didn’t accept the hand, her eyes purely focused on the nurse. 

“Stella is quite a lucky girl, she is out of the woods and she is going to be fine. She’ll need a couple of weeks to fully recover but she is going to be fine.” Nurse Ofelia told the group and they all let out the breath they didn’t realize they were holding.

Brandon just about collapsed into tears at the news, finally able to breathe through the tormenting hours of waiting to know if his girlfriend was going to live or not. He could finally breathe again.

“Can we go see her?” Sky asked as he held Bloom close to him, rubbing her arms, hoping for the possibility to see his friend. 

“Of course, but try to keep it to a few people in the room at the time, we do not want to overwhelm her, her body has been through a lot.” The nurse said and before the nurse could finish speaking, Brandon bolted into Stella’s room without a care in the world.

“SNOOKUMS!” 

The group heard Stella’s yell which caused everyone to burst out into laughter once again, and everyone agreed to let the couple have their moment for a while before barging in there. 

It was only two minutes.

Then Bloom ran in.

Then Layla.

And Tecna.

Then finally Flora.

Everything was okay again.

Chapter Text

“Flora, you have to talk to me. What’s going on in your beautiful head of yours?” The raven-haired specialist asked his girlfriend in her room. 

It’s been a week since the attack, Riven, and Musa were cleared from the infirmary, though both were struggling in their ways. Riven was sidelined for longer than he wanted, and Musa, well, she was isolated, going out at night to drink.

Stella was okay, she was just able to come back to the dorms the day before, slow-moving, but moving regardless. Brandon hasn’t left her side once and as much as Stella loved it, she wanted to start doing things on her own and be alone. 

Bloom and Sky stayed in each other's rooms during the week, both confiding in one another whilst enjoying each other's company.

Tecna was working on tech that would help Stella once she came back to the dorms like creating a remote that would open the doors, turn the lights on and off, and simple things like that. Timmy was able to help her work on it during the week as well, giving the two the quality time they deserved doing the things they both loved. 

Layla was moving around a lot, between visiting Stella and checking on Musa, and when she wasn’t keeping up with the others, she would go on runs or walks. Nabu came over occasionally to watch movies or cook dinner with her for everyone. 

Everyone loved Nabu’s cooking.

Then there was Flora and Helia.

The perfect couple.

Things were not as perfect as they seemed. Helia was doing his best to support his girlfriend, but Flora was shutting him out. She wouldn’t open up to him about her new powers involving death which made him shudder thinking about. The girl who loved all things living could dive into the depths of death work. 

He hated it.

“Nothing Helia, please just drop it,” Flora asked, truly not wanting to get into the same argument over and over.

Flora just didn’t want to talk about it, sure, she discussed it with Fragaonda who was helping her with her training so she could control the slightly darker abilities she never knew she possessed, and briefly talked to the girls about it. But she didn’t feel the need nor want to explain it to Helia. 

She loved him to death, ironically, but she knew he was a pacifist. Flora realized that Helia wasn’t fond of these new abilities once she saw the look on his face when he heard about what happened. By no means was Flora going to stop with the abilities so she chose to not discuss it with him due to those reasons.

“It’s not nothing Flora. You’ve shut me out all week.” Helia responded calmly as he leaned into Flora’s desk chair. 

Flora was thankful that Bloom was in the living room with Sky and not in here. She knew exactly where this was heading.

“Helia, I’m not shutting you out. If I was, you wouldn’t be here right now.” Flora told him truthfully as she sat on the edge of her bed, locking eyes with her boyfriend.

“Seriously Flora? You have these new powers and you won’t even tell me. I’ve been trying to make you open up about them all week.” Helia confessed to his girlfriend as he crossed his arms.

“That's the thing Helia, all you want to talk about is that. Quite honestly, I don’t wanna talk about it, my life is being consumed by it. You’re supposed to be my safe place, my world away from it all, but you're just bringing it up over and over. It’s suffocating Helia.” Flora said to him, slightly with more tone than she would’ve liked, but she was reaching her breaking point with this conversation.

“Oh come on Flora, you could just talk to me about it. I can’t help you if I’m left in the dark. It’s no big deal to just explain some things.” Helia shot back as he threw his arms in the air, his voice a little bit louder than intended.

“Are you serious Helia, not a big deal? I just told you my life is being consumed because of all this. Musa and Riven were hurt. Stella nearly died , Helia. Everything that’s happening to me is really hard, I’m sorry if I don’t want to just talk about it all the time, or at all.” She told him harshly as she stood up, crossing her arms. 

Tears were threatening to fall at this point but Flora refused to let them. She wasn’t going to seem weak in front of Helia right now.

“I…. Look, I know this past week has been hard Flo, but you can’t shut me out. I love you, Flora.” Heli told her as he sighed.

“I know. Tensions are just really high right now Helia. I don’t wanna take my anger out on you, but I’m so angry. Everything that’s happening is because of me. Everyone that got hurt…. Stella nearly died over me. This is why I never wanted any of you getting involved.” Flora let out as she looked at the floor, refusing to meet her boyfriend's eyes.

“Flora, we love you. I will give my life to make sure you are okay, none of-“

“NO!” Flora shouted, cutting her boyfriend off as she pointed at him.

“You won’t give your life for me Helia. That’s out of the question. I won’t live with that guilt and if things go south in the future, you promise me you let me die before you, or anyone else for that matter tries to save me.”

“Flora, I can’t.”

“Promise me Helia. I can’t lose you, or anyone else.” Flora told him, tears starting to fall as she finally met the eyes of her boyfriend. 

She saw the fear in his eyes, and how glossy they started to become. He’s hurting because of her.

“Helia, promise me right now. If I’m to die at the end of this, then so be it. But you won’t, and you’ll make sure no one else tries something stupid to save me. Just promise me Helia, please.” Flora begged her boyfriend who opened his mouth but closed it before speaking again.

“I…. I promise Flora. But then you have to promise me this one thing.” 

“What is it?” Flora asked, taking a deep breath, trying to control her emotions.

“Don’t die on me.” He said, his lip quivering, tears beginning to fall from his eyes. 

Flora watched him, how different his demeanor was, how fragile and lost he looked. 

She broke him.

“I promise.”

Flor walked over to hug him, and she melted into his embrace, Helia tightened his hold, almost as if he never wanted to let her go again.

“I’m sorry Helia…. For everything.” Flora told him and Helia looked down at his flower and wiped the tears from her eyes. 

“You have nothing to apologize for.” He responded as he planted a soft kiss on her forehead.

“I think I have to go home,” Flora told him and he looked at her puzzled.

“I’ll go with you.”

“No, I can’t. This is for me, I need answers, and the only place I’ll get them is there. I just need to talk to Faragonda first.” Flora told him, and Helia tried to protest but was silenced by Flora.

“No Helia. I love you, but I can’t. For your safety, I need to take a step back. At least until I come back.” Flora told him as she looked towards the window, once again refusing to meet his eyes.

“Flora…”

“Helia, I need answers at home, some things I need to do on my own. I can’t be so focused on you if you came, I can’t.”

“What? Flora… are you saying I’m a distraction?” Helia asked as he took a step back. 

“Helia… You're- That’s not what I meant.” Flora said, trying to save the conversation.

“Clearly it is,” Helia responded sharply as he turned around, walking over to grab his coat.

“Helia, please, I didn’t mean it like that. I just need clarity, I need to see my parents. I just need answers.” Flora said to him, trying to stop him but he just turned to Flora.

“But it is, look, if you want a break, fine. All you had to do was say it. I’m sorry for being a distraction for you Flora.” He said and with that, he opened her door and walked out.

Flora felt tears blur her vision as she ran out into the common room where she saw Helia at the door, ignoring the confused looks from the others in the room.

“Helia, please! I’m sorry, I didn’t mean it like that, please!” Flora choked out, praying, hoping that her boyfriend would turn around.

Only he didn’t.

Flora watched as Helia shut the door behind him with a little bit of force that echoed throughout the room. Flora stood there, frozen in time as she stared at the door.

“I’m sorry,” Flora whispered as she blinked away tears before staring in horror at everyone else looking at her. 

Flora felt like she was going to throw up, without saying a word, she turned on her heels and sprinted back to her room, slamming the door behind her. 

---------

“What did I… just walk into?” Musa asked as she swayed into the common room, watching as the girls were talking privately. It was a few hours after Helia’s dismissal, and the other guys have only just left so it was just the girls now.

“Where the hell have you been?!” Stella screeched from the couch, even though she couldn’t move much, it didn't stop her mouth.

“Out. What’s going on?” Musa asked as she blinked a few times, trying her hardest to be present in the room. 

Truth be told, Musa was quite hammered at the moment, stopping at a bar as she was out on a walk through Magix. One drink led to two then two to three and so on. It was her way of drowning out the noise, so much was happening that Musa was just overwhelmed and needed to ease her worries. 

“Helia is being a tool, but…. Are you drunk?” Layla responded but furrowed her eyes at her friend as she walked closer to the music fairy. 

“You are!” Layla let out before Musa could even answer for herself. 

“Okay and? I went out and had a few drinks, so?” Musa said, trying to cover up that it was a one-and-done thing.

“We were texting you, we were worried and you weren’t answering,” Tecna told her truthfully, after Helia stormed out, the girls calmed Flora down and then they realized Musa was gone for a while so they sent her some texts, hours went by without a response so they continued to worry.

“Oh sorry, my phone died. My bad.” Musa told them, hoping that the questions would stop soon because she just wanted to sit down and relax.

“It’s alright, why were you out drinking? It was only midday when you left. Kind of early to drink, no?” Bloom asked, more concerned as to why her friend was drinking than the fact she was gone for so long which only added another layer of concern.

“Eh, walked by a bar and just went in, things have been crazy so just tried to cool off for a bit,” Musa replied nonchalantly.

“You’ve been coming back late though, I heard you come in late the past few nights. Not only that but I also have been smelling some alcohol.” Tecna said as she crossed her arms which led the other girls to look at her with concerned eyes.

“Musa, are you becoming an alcoholic?” Stella asked as her eyes widened and was immediately met with a smack of a pillow by Bloom.

“OW! I’m still injured you know, and it’s a valid question.” Stella finished as she rubbed her head which caused Bloom to roll her eyes.

“God, I go out a few nights for some drinks and suddenly I’m the alcoholic. Thanks, Stel.” Musa responded as she shook her head in disappointment.

“Look, Musa, that is kind of concerning, considering everything you went through. We don’t want you going down the wrong path or to go through it alone.” Bloom told the music fairy with a lowered voice, trying not to make her friend upset.

“Are you kidding me right now, I am fine. F. I. N. E. Fine.” Musa shot back before turning on her heels and stormed into her room, slamming the door shut. 

The rest of the girls looked at each other with even more concern than before. This was not like their friend at all, they didn’t like it one bit.

“I don’t know about you guys, but that doesn’t sound fine to me,” Stella commented as she looked at the others.

“Yeah, no shit Sherlock,” Layla responded as she sighed.

“I’ll go talk to her,” Flora said as she stood up, a lot more calm than a few hours ago when she was in hysterics. Her eyes were still a bit red from the crying but she was much more composed than before.

“Are you sure Flo, I mean you were going through it not too long ago,” Bloom asked her friend and Flora just nodded in response.

“I’ll be fine girls, don’t worry. Besides I need to tell her I’ll be leaving tomorrow anyways.” The nature fairy responded and the others nodded and watched Flora twist the doorknob and slowly walked into the room.

“Musa?” Flora whispered as she saw her friend on her bed, face first into her pillows.

“Go away, Flora,” Musa said into her pillows which came out more muffled but Flora still got the gist.

“Sweetie, I’m not going anywhere,” Flora said as she sat on her friend's bed, placing a hand on the music fairy's leg. 

“What’s going on Musa, talk to me. It’s just me and you.” Flora continued as she looked at her friend and was relieved when Musa picked up her head and sat up and leaned into her pillows.

“I dunno, I guess I’m just overwhelmed. So much has been going on, god I mean, Stella almost died, Riven could have, I could have. Life is just too much right now.” Musa told Flora truthfully as she leaned her head back.

“Yeah, tell me about it.” Flora joked back which caused Musa’s head to snap up in realization.

“Oh god, Flora, wait, I’m so sorry. I’m so stupid, fuck. I didn’t even think.” Musa started to ramble as she knew Flora’s shit was a lot more severe than hers and here she was complaining about it to her.

“Musa, it’s okay. Everyone struggles and that’s okay. What’s not okay is how you’re choosing to handle it. Getting a drink here and there is fine, but what I just heard isn’t.” Flora spoke calmly but with confidence but ended up sliding up next to Musa and wrapped an arm around her, allowing Musa to tuck her head into Flora’s neck.

“I know… I didn’t plan for it to be like this. The other day after I was clear to move around, I just went out. I didn’t plan to end up in a bar, but once I saw it, I thought a drink couldn’t hurt. Then it just kept going and going. It’s the only thing that’s allowing me to numb everything.” Musa confided in her friend, allowing the tears to slowly fall.

“That’s okay Musa. What’s important is that you told me, but no more bars, or drinking for a while. I know it’s going to be hard but you have the girls behind you as well as Riven and the rest of the guys.” Flora told her as she played with Musa’s hair and she felt Musa nod her head.

“I’ll make sure the girls know everything and that they can take extra care of you while I’m gone for the next few days,” Flora told her and Musa sat up and turned to her in confusion.

“Where are you going?” Musa asked and Flora sighed.

“I’ll be going home, I need to get more answers and just clear my head,” Flora told her Musa’s eyes softened and she nodded.

“Is anyone going with you? You can’t go alone, Flora. Is Helia gonna go?” Musa asked and Flora shook her head.

“No, he won’t be. We kind of got into a bit of a fight. I’ll be talking to Faragonda in a little bit to get it sorted who’s going with me? But I think I’m gonna ask that all you girls stay put. You all need to heal, relax, and just take time for yourselves. I don’t want to put any of you girls through anything else.” Flora responded to Musa whose eyes widened at her words.

“Flora, you know we’d go through hell and back for you at any time, back to back even. But what happened between you and Helia?” Miss asked and Flora sighed as she looked to the wall that belonged to Tecna’s side with all the gadgets hanging on a shelf.

“He was pressing a lot about the fight and how I’m able to utilize magic through death. He’s not a fan so I just didn’t want to open up about it to him. It ended up where we made a promise and then me telling him he was not coming home with me because I need to focus on me, not him. He took it as he’s a distraction and stormed off.” Flora told her, remembering the horrible moment hours prior.

“Oh Flo, he’s being a guy, he will come around. Maybe the time apart will help out.” Musa told her as this time she brought the nature fairy in for a hug. 

“Thanks, Musa. I know, I think going home is what I need though.” Flora told her with a smile and Musa nodded in agreement.

“That’s good Flor, that’s good,” Musa said and the two of them cuddled up together for a while, just keeping each other company without even the need to talk.

————————

“Flora, I’m not letting you go back home alone with these threats.” Ms. Faragonda said to the nature fairy who bit her lip. 

“I know that, though I wish you would let me,” Flora responded as she looked at her feet for a moment.

“Can you just let one of the specialists go with her where she has someone?” Bloom asked the headmistress, hoping she would agree to that.

The girls came in to meet with Ms. Faragonda with Flora for moral support. They all understood why Flora was going to do this alone and accepted that none of them were going, even though they would like to. But at the same time, they were relieved because they were able to relax. 

“I suppose that could work. I’m assuming you would want Helia to accompany you for the trip?” The headmistress asked and Flora shook her head.

“No, Stella talked to me about letting me bring Brandon along for the trip,” Flora told the headmistress who raised an eyebrow but decided not to pursue it.

“Please take Brandon, I love him to death but he’s hovering too much. A girl needs her space too, Stella chimed in to help plea Flora’s case but also hers.

She loved Brandon to the moon and back, but he’s been with her nearly every second of her recovery. She’s lucky if she can go to the bathroom alone. She wanted to recover in peace for a few days and this was her perfect opportunity.

“Alright, I’ll alert Saladin to have Brandon come pick you up. Flora, please be safe. Contact us if anything happens, don’t let us see it on the news first.” Ms. Faragonda told the nature fairy who nodded as she stood up with a smile. 

“Thank you,” Flora said as she stood up and the girls walked out of the office.

Within two hours, the girls were out in the quad as they watched the small ship Brandon was flying land before them. The ship's doors opened to reveal Brandon walking out with a smile on his face. He first walked over to Stella who was still in a wheelchair and planted a kiss on her forehead.

“I’m gonna miss you snookum's, you be safe okay?” Stella said to her boyfriend who smiled and nodded.

“Of course Princess, you just stay out of trouble.” He replied as he leaned in for a short kiss on her lips which had the others making heart eyes and signs of the couple.

“But now onto real business, not one hair is to be touched on my girl. You better keep her safe Mr. Or you’re in the dog house, do I make myself clear?” Stella switched up her voice so fast and even Brandon was taken aback as his eyes widened and he gulped as he nodded.

“Yes ma’am, Flora, your chariot awaits,” Brandon said as he bowed towards the ship as a joke which caused everyone to laugh. 

Flora went to the girls and they all went in for a group hug. They made small talk, demanding she called or texted them when she got there and a phone call every night with updates. Soon the girls dispersed and Brandon picked up her bag and the two boarded the ship and prepped for takeoff.

“Next stop, Lynphea,” Brandon said to Flora who smiled and nodded. 

She looked to her right where she saw her friends getting smaller and smaller as the ship began to take off. She would see them soon, she smiled and leaned her head into the seat.

It’s time to go home.

Chapter Text

“Hey Musa, how are you doing?” Tecna asked her friend as she walked into their shared room.

It’s been a day since Flora left and Tecna remembered Flora’s reminder to check on Musa throughout the week. Tecna may not be the world's best talker, but she’s grown over the past few years, especially with her emotions.

“I’m alright Tec, just writing some new melodies,” Musa responded as she sat at her desk, pen in hand as she wrote down a few words.

“Sounds fun! But how are you actually doing?” Tecna asked as she sat down at her desk, grabbing one of her gadgets to mess around with.

“I’m dealing, just trying to focus on music and ignoring the craving,” Musa responded as she put the pen to her lip.

“The craving of getting alcohol?” Tecna asked, doing her best to understand the situation.

“Unfortunately, yeah,” Musa said as she sighed, looking down ashamed.

“That’s alright Musa, but it’s good to see you are fighting it. That’s a feat in itself.” Tecna told her truthfully and Musa gave her a soft smile as she nodded.

“Yeah I know, I’m just trying to take it one day at a time. Especially with what’s to come, I can’t have something like this looming over my head.” Musa said to Tecna who nodded understandingly.

“Why did you think alcohol was the right choice?” Tecna asked, trying to push for more information so she understood better.

“Ah, I dunno. Just walked around, saw a bar, and the rest is history. It can get real addicting, I’m just glad you guys realized before it was too late.” Musa responded as she put her pen down.

“I’m glad too, but, are you okay? I mean why did you use it as a coping source to begin with.” Tecna continued.

“The past week Tec, god I’m glad to even be here right now. So is Riven, and especially Stella. I’ve just been so stressed and overwhelmed and I just gave in.” Musa told her as she played with her hair trying to distract herself.

“I understand, but you have us to help you now. None of us are going anywhere.” Tecna told her friend who smiled at her.

“Thanks, Tecna, I appreciate it,” Musa replied softly.

“How about we go ask the others to watch a movie, get some snacks, and make some fun non-alcoholic drinks? Maybe it’ll help curb the craving?” Tecna asked her friend whose eyes lit up at the idea.

“That sounds awesome Tecna, thank you,” Musa said as she stood up and walked over to her friend.

“Of course Musa,” Tecna replied as she accepted a hug that Musa gave her and the two walked out of the room, ready for a fun-filled night.

——————

“Wow Flora, you didn’t lie when you said Lynphea was beautiful!” Brandon said as he began the ship's descent onto the ground.

“Yeah, it really is,” Flora replied softly as she looked out the window, spotting some of her favorite oak trees which were filled with lush plant life all around.

“So the first stop is your parents right?” Brandon asked as he brought the ship to a stop on the ground.

“Yes, then we go from there,” Flora responded and he nodded as the town exited the ship.

They walked in silence for a while, just breathing in the nature around them. Brandon was looking around, enjoying the gorgeous views he was seeing. It was a great break from seeing the typical buildings at Red Fountain and Alfea.

“I’m sorry that you had to come on this. I know you’d probably wanted to stay with Stella.” Flora said quietly as they continued their walk to Flora’s home.

“Nonsense Flora, do I miss Stella already, yeah of course. But I’m pretty sure she is more than excited for me to be away. I think I may have been around her too much the past few days.” Brandon told Flora truthfully.

Brandon knew he was hovering, but he couldn’t help himself. His girlfriend nearly died , and the worst part was that he wasn’t even there to protect her. 

“Yeah, but it still sucks you were the one to get dragged away from everyone,” Flora responded.

“Are you kidding? I’m getting a vacation here, do you see how beautiful this place is?! The bigger question is why I’m here and not Helia.” Brandon said to the nature fairy who sighed.

“That doesn’t sound good, did something happen Flora?” Brandon asked and Flora looked towards the trees, avoiding Brandon’s eyes.

“Flora, what happened? Did he do something?” Brandon asked, stopping Flora and lightly grabbing her arm.

Just then Flora felt a bolt of pain in her head at the touch. She saw flickering images of brown hair, grass, and trees. 

What the hell?

“Woah, Flora are you okay?” Brandon asked, noticing she was swaying.

“Yeah, just got dizzy for a sec, sorry,” Flora told him as she brushed everything off to look at Brandon who was filled with concern.

“I’m fine, don’t worry.” She told him with a smile as they continued to walk.

“And no, Helia didn’t do anything. He just, we had a fight.” Flora told him truthfully as she brushed her hands across the tree she was passing.

“Aw shit Flo, I didn’t know. Was it bad?” Brandon asked.

“I mean, it was a fight, then we kind of made up, then ended on bad terms again. He thought I meant he was a distraction because I told him I didn’t want him coming because I needed to focus on me, not him.” Flora told him and Brandon’s eyes widened.

“For the romantic expert, he seems to be really clueless. I wouldn’t worry Flo, he’s being an idiot right now. I’ll give him the good ole Brandon talk to him when we get back.” Brandon told her as he flashed a cheeky smile her way giving Flora a laugh.

“Thanks, Brandon, I appreciate it.” She replied as the two finally made it to Flora’s childhood home. 

It was an oak and stone home that had overgrown vines over the windows and stone, but not in an abandoned type of way. It was clean-cut but had a lot of life around it. It had a rounded glass roof, almost as if the house itself was it’s own version of a greenhouse.

“Your home is beautiful Flora, I’m also excited to meet your parents,” Brandon said as they walked up to the door where Flora began knocking.

“Thank you!” Flora said as she turned her head towards the door which opened revealing her parents, Flora’s face lit up as she saw them.

“Mom, Dad!” Flora exclaimed as she rushed into her parent's arms as they both held their daughter close.

“Hey honey, how are you? How were your travels?” Flora's father asked.

“It was good, pretty smooth,” Flora responded as she pulled away revealing Brandon behind her.

“Honey whose this? Have you and Helia broken up?” Flora's mother asked and Flora burst out into laughter whilst Brandon’s face turned as red as a tomato.

“No ma, this is Brandon, Stella’s boyfriend. He’s accompanying me for this trip.” Flora told her mom who nodded.

“Well hello there Brandon, it’s very nice to mee…. Meet you.” Flora’s mother’s hesitated as she got close to the specialist, her eyes locked onto his until her husband came up next to her, breaking her from her trance.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, son.” Flora’s father said as he shook Brandon’s hand. 

Flora watched her mother's reaction, confused by the hesitation but brushed it off. She was just happy to be home.

Flora went up to her old room with her backpack slung over her shoulder and her duffle in her opposite hand. She smiled as she smelled the fresh floral scent of her room and saw all her plants around. She placed her bags down as she went and sat down on her bed and laid down.

She was home.

———————

Sky smiled as he watched Bloom run across the sand in front of him, twirling and jumping in circles. The sight made his heart burst with joy, pride, and happiness. It’s been a while since he’s seen Bloom so happy, even if it was for a short period of time, but he was happy she was finally letting go.

He knew that Bloom was holding in emotions, trying to be there for her friends but he knew how much of a toll it was taking on her. The night Stella was in critical condition, even after she was cleared from it, Bloom had a meltdown and all Sky could do was hold her, promising her things would be okay.

The blonde brought Bloom to the water where she could be free, away from all the noise, where it was just the two of them. So far he was happy to see it seemed to be working.

“C’mon Sky, race you to the towels!” Bloom shouted as she took off towards their little beach setup, leaving him in the dust. 

Sky laughed before taking off, gaining on Bloom quickly as his feet crushed the sand beneath him. Just as Bloom reached the towels, Sky managed to reach out and grab her from behind, picking her up and twirling her around whilst Bloom laughed. He softly brought her to the ground and the two lay together on the towels, limbs tangled within one another as they held each other close.

“Thank you for this Sky,” Bloom whispered to her boyfriend who smiled and softly planted a kiss on her forehead.

“Anything for you Bloom.” He replied as he smiled, looking down into her blue eyes, slowly bringing his hand to her chin, lifting it closer to his allowing their lips to meet. They continued their passionate kiss for what seemed like hours but only lasted a few minutes before Bloom curled up against Sky and leaned her head on his chest. 

“Sky, I know we’ve talked briefly about this, but our future, how many kids would you want?” Bloom asked her boyfriend as she tilted her head up to look at Sky.

“Ah, the deep questions I see. But I don't know an exact number but at least 2 or 3.” The specialist told her and her eyes lit up at his response.

“Really?! That’s perfect, I would like 3 personally but wouldn’t mind more.” Bloom told him and Sky smiled as his girlfriend talked.

“I think starting with 3 would be perfect. Then we go on from there.” Sky told her and Bloom smiled and slid up to plant a kiss on Sky’s cheek before retreating back to his chest where the two stayed together for the rest of the evening.

Everything was a fairytale, laying on the beach, tangled up with the girl of his dreams, nothing could be better than this. Nothing could ruin this moment, absolutely nothing.

Or what about…

Nope, absolutely nothing.

———————

Timmy was in the common room as he texted Tecna as they were talking about the latest update for their computers, both complaining about how they could have easily made a better update themselves. He mindlessly placed his hand on the side table where there was a bowl of popcorn, grabbing a handful before throwing it into his mouth. He briefly saw Helia walking by but paid no attention to him as he grabbed another handful of popcorn.

BANG!

Timmy looked up to see the door slam and he raised his eyebrows as he looked at Riven and Musa who were on the couch across from him.

“Why’s the pacifist so grumpy, he’s been like this for two days already,” Riven asked, his arms outstretched on the couch whilst Musa was leaning into his side.

“Maybe he’s just missing Flora?” Timmy asked, assuming that was the reason which only made Musa laugh which caused the guys to look at her.

“You know something we don’t?” Riven asked his girlfriend as he looked down at her quizzically.

“Yeah, Helia was a jerk to Flora that’s what.” Musa simply said and both guys' eyes almost popped out of their heads at the news. 

“What do you mean?” Timmy asked as she sat up, his interest being spiked. 

Just at that, Nabu came walking in with Layla, hand in hand laughing and smiling. They stopped to look to see that they came in during an interesting conversation.

“Are we interrupting something?” Nabu asked the trio and they all shook their heads.

“Nah, I was just about to tell them how Helia is being an idiot,” Musa responded and Layla nodded understandingly.

“Ah yeah, that’s a good shout there, Musa, they should know why he’s been so grumpy the last few days,” Nabu said to her which led to Riven and Timmy staring at him in shock.

“You mean you knew this whole time?”

“And didn’t tell us?!” They said one after the other which made the others laugh at their dismay.

“Oops?” Nabu said as he smiled and shrugged his shoulders, making Layla and Musa laugh even harder.

Eventually, the girls calmed down and told Riven and Helia the whole story and Timmy’s mouth was open while Riven was clenching his fists.

“Seems like Mr. Pacifist needs to be knocked down a few pegs,” Riven said as he tried to get up until Musa grabbed his arm.

“Don’t you dare. The last thing either of them needs is us causing more issues for them. Helia just needs to cool off. Once Flora comes back and if he still acts like a tool then we can get involved.” Musa told him and Riven huffed but nodded.

“Exactly, let Helia brood for a while, hopefully, he will realize he blew things out of proportion.” Layla continued off of Musa.

“Fine. But if he does something else as dumb as that to her, I’m not waiting.” Riven told her and Musa smiled as she leaned into his chest once more.

“I love the bond the two of you have, truly would have never seen that coming when we first met,” Musa said to him truthfully, I mean who would have thought the sweetest girl in the world would have such a good relationship with the residential bad boy?

“Yeah, well I’ve got a soft spot for her, sue me,” Riven said to the group and everyone else awed him and mocked him making him roll his eyes.

“Riven, you actually have a heart?” Nabu commented making everyone laugh once again.

“Yeah yeah, y’all should be comedians,” Riven mumbled whilst Musa planted a kiss on his cheek, slightly, making his frown turn upside down.

The rest of the night was filled with watching movies, playing games, and just relaxing for the rest of the night. 

Something they deserved.

Chapter Text

“So, Brandon, what made you become a specialist?” Flora’s mother asked the brunette who was seated on her couch alone.

Flora decided to go out on a walk alone just to relax and reconnect with her home realm, it was something the nature fairy commonly did so Brandon did not need to accompany her. This left him with Flora’s parents, leaving him not as thrilled as he would have thought. The way they were acting was almost as if they were analyzing every move, it was odd.

“Well, I grew up with Prince Sky of Eraklyon as his squire, so when Sky decided to become a specialist, so did I,” Brandon told her truthfully who nodded as she continued to stare at him, making him shift uncomfortably in his seat. 

“Were you forced to go with Prince Sky?” Flora’s mother asked and Brandon shook his head.

“No, but I was his squire since I was a young kid, Sky became my best friend. He didn’t treat me like I was his squire and it was a no-brainer to apply with him. Though we did have to switch identities for a while and I had to act like the Prince, Bloom, and Stella were not a fan of that reveal.” Brandon told her, laughing at the memory of the girls finding out about the swap.

“Oh wow, so you were born on Erakylon I presume then?” She continued to press and again Brandon shook his head.

“No, or at least I don’t know. I was adopted as a baby, someone dropped me on my parent's doorstep and they happened to be close to the royal family so I managed to grow up quite well, though I never really felt like I belonged. My parents abandoning me is a bit of a sore subject.” Brandon answered her, looking at the ground towards the end, ashamed that he wasn’t even good enough for his parents.

“Oh honey, that’s not your fault, I’m sure there must have been a good reason they did that.” Flora’s mom said as she walked over and placed a hand on his shoulder as she looked into his saddened eyes.

Flora’s mom scanned his eyes, blinking a few times before inhaling deeply as she stepped back, turning her head away for a moment. Brandon looked at her skeptically as he stood up to assess her quickly.

“Ma’am, are you alright?” Brandon asked, stepping closer but Flora’s mom nodded.

“Yes, dear. You just… Ah, never mind, you have similar eyes to someone I used to know, that’s all. But I’m going to go help my husband set the table, why don’t you go get washed up for supper?” Flora’s mom told him and Brandon bit his lip but nodded, deciding not to pursue the issue.

He figured he would just ask Flora what the deal was when she came back from her walk. But he understood once she said he looked familiar, he could understand where she was coming from. He smiled at Alyssa before walking past her to head upstairs to wash up for dinner.

Alyssa felt a tear roll down her cheek as she quickly walked into the kitchen where her husband was finishing up supper, Rollo’s turned his head and his face dropped once he saw his wife’s tear-stained face.

“Lyss? What’s going on honey?” Rollos asked, taking the soup off the stove as he walked over to his wife, placing his hands gently on her neck as he looked at her.

“Rollos…. It’s him. The eyes, he said he was adopted, it makes sense.”  Alyssa said to her husband whose eyes widened at her words.

“Honey, I think you are just jumping to a conclusion, the eyes do look familiar bu-“

“It’s him, I promise you it is,” Alyssa said to her husband, her eyes pleading with him to agree.

“Lyss, I just don’t think that’s possible. There was a fire, and everyone assumed he… he didn’t make it. You shouldn’t get your hopes up.” Rollos said to his wife as he rubbed the side of her arms, fighting back his tears about the topic.

“I know my own son's eyes, Rollos,” Alyssa said to him sharply, fully believing that the specialist under her roof was her own.

She knew it was the biggest longshot in the magical dimension, but his eyes were too familiar to not believe it. The facial resemblance, skin tone, hair color, it was all lining up that this was her son she lost those many years ago.

“How would we even know Lyss, there’s no way..” Her husband continued with a saddened expression, still trying not to get anyone’s hopes up for more heartbreak.

“The birthmark, the one on his ankle, those aren’t common. If he has it, it has to be him. Rollos, he has to be our son. What about the staff? ” Alyssa said to her husband as a tear came down her cheek.

“Uh, what?”

The two whipped around to see Brandon in the doorway looking confused as ever in the doorframe, studying the couple before him.

“How much of that did you hear?” Rollos asked the brunette who looked starstruck.

“Quite a bit, look, with all due respect, I don’t think you would be my parents. I was on Erakylon, there’s no way. I’m sorry.” Brandon said to the pair as he stepped into the kitchen, his eyes saddened.

“Take off your left shoe,” Alyssa said quietly, and instead of protesting, Brandon did as he was told.

Brandon took off his left shoe, leaving his ankle exposed where Alyssa ad Rollos looked down to see a small little birthmark on the side of the ankle. The pair gasped as they looked up, meeting Brandon’s confused eyes.

“Oh my magix, how could this be?” Rollos said as he stared, mouth agape, looking at the brunette before him, his son.

“Look, I think you may be getting your hopes up. I don’t want to bring you down but I don’t-”

“Nonsense, honey, the staff, go find it, if it works we can know for sure. But Brandon dear, look at this photo.” Alyssa ordered her husband who bolted from the room before reaching into her pocket revealing a necklace with an opening that showed a picture of two baby girls who Brandon only assumed were Flora and Miele. 

Though Brandon watched as she slid the photo out slightly revealing another baby in the image, one that looked strikingly familiar to him. He noticed the birthmark on the ankle in the exact same spot above the bone. He looked at the image, holding his breath as he realized the photo of the boy looked very similar to his baby pictures back home.

“Wha… What?” Brandon let out, his mouth suddenly going dry as he felt himself sway backward.

This was overwhelming for him, there was no way that this was his birth parents in front of him. It couldn’t be, yet it was starting to make sense, the birthmark, the adoption, the hair color, the eye shape he shared with Flora’s mom. Brandon walked back out into the living room to sit down, placing his hands in his hair as he took some deep breaths.

“I got it!” Rollos shouted as he came sprinting down the stairs with what seemed to be a walnut-chiseled wizard's staff. 

“When we were expecting, the local prophet said we would have a fairy and a wizard, so we bought the staff to be ready. We managed to allow you to touch it when you were first born to allow your power to lie within the staff. If you are our son, you should see some sort of spark or feel something.” Rollos said to Brandon whose eyes nearly popped out of his head. 

“Okay, now you are talking crazy, I’m not a wizard. If I was, I would have known by now.” Brandon told him as he managed to sit up, though sweat continued to bead down his head.

“No, we had you touch the staff immediately to dormant your powers. It was for your safety until we could get you proper training once you were old enough to learn. Here, take it.” Rollos said as he handed the staff over to Brandon who hesitantly took it. 

Brandon felt the staff within his fingers, not feeling any power, but feeling like it deserved to be in his hand. It had the perfect feel for his hands as he gripped the staff, waiting for something to happen. The three stood and watched for a few minutes, expecting something to happen, but nothing did. Brandon felt his heart breaking, knowing he had just got his hopes up for nothing.

“See, I told you. I’m not your so-”

Brandon was cut off by a soft amber glow around the staff which worked its way up from the bottom to the top. Brandon suddenly felt a rush of power surge through his veins as he held the staff tighter. Brandon allowed the power to run its course before lightly tapping it on the ground, stopping the glow from emitting before opening his eyes. 

“Holy…” Brandon let out as he took a few deep breaths, calming himself down from the sudden rush of power. 

“It is you,” Alyssa whispered before pulling Brandon into a hug, one he was paralyzed to move in, so he just stood there, allowing his friend's mom, or rather his own mom just hug him.

“How? Did…. Did you guys abandon me? Brandon asked, taking a few steps back from his supposed parents, pain wretched onto his face.

“Heavens no, after you and Flora were born, you were being taken to get cleaned up and get the usual tests done. Then a fire broke out, and by the time I could get to where you were, you were gone and the room was burnt to a crisp. We thought…. We thought you were killed.” Rollos told Brandon whose eyes softened as he bit his lip. 

“We were destroyed, we couldn’t even bring it up to Flora ever. It was too much pain, we never forgot you, Flora reminded us of you, every single day. It was hard and it never got easier, we missed you so much.” Alyssa continued from her husband and Brandon felt tears start to fall, a vulnerable side that isn’t seen often starting to show.

“So… both of you are my parents, I’m a wizard…. And Flora…. She’s my sister, as well as Miele?” Brandon asked, looking for the confirmation, needing to hear it again.

“Yes.”

He couldn’t believe it, he didn’t know whether to be excited or upset. He knew it wasn’t their fault for him being lost, but god it didn’t make it hurt any less. He missed out on years with his family. But his adopted family, what is he supposed to tell them? 

Oh hey guys, actually you know, I just found my real family, thought you should know, bye!

As complicated as his life was, it just got a lot more complicated. He was just overwhelmed, there was too much new information for him and he just wasn’t prepared to take it in. God, Flora is going to freak out when she comes back to this news. Though Brandon was quite happy knowing that Flora was his sister, one thing he always worried about his real family was that they were horrible and despicable people. Fortunately, he is wrong and would have had an overloving family, which made him madder about the memories he missed out on. Brandon felt like Bloom at this moment, as if he just found Daphne after all these years, he was going to have to talk with her once he got back about coping. 

“I know this is overwhelming, believe us, we are as well, but couldn’t be happier. Take a moment to sit down, and relax, and once Flora comes back we can explain everything to her. Unfortunately, Miele is away on a trip with her friends so we won’t be able to tell her all together but we will break the news once she gets back.” Rollos told Brandon as he laid a hand on the specialist’s shoulder as guided him to sit down.

They all sat down, sitting in silence, just breathing at the moment, the reunion. Though, it was short-lasting as sudden darkness began to loom into the windows, making the three jump up with confusion.

“What the?” Alyssa whispered as she looked out the window to see dark clouds in the sky, a color she has never seen on Lynphea before in her life. 

“That doesn’t seem good,” Rollos said as he also examined the clouds before walking to the door, opening it to get a better view. He saw his neighbors coming out as they all looked out at the sky together, everyone just as confused. 

“This has to be dark magic, and if dark magic is here in Lynphea…” Alyssa started as her eyes turned downcast, taking in a deep breath.

“Then that means Thanatos is here….” Brandon finished, his eyes darkened as he looked outside, his hand gripping his weapon on his side.

“Who?” Rollos asked, still unknown to the couple that their daughter happened to be a wielder of a powerful source of magic and having a psychopathic killer hunting her down.

Before Brandon could answer him, a blood-curdling scream was heard in the distance, deeper into the woods. Alarm bells flew through Brandon’s head as he recognized Flora’s scream, his sister's scream. 

“Brandon, take this, GO!” Brandon heard Rollos say to him just before he took off running, and he turned to see his staff thrown toward him. 

Brandon caught it, gripping it tightly before sprinting towards the darkened woods, racing to find his friend, his sister, Flora.

----------------

“God, the view here is stunning,” Bloom said as the group ate their lunch.

The guys and girls decided to go out to a restaurant on the water for a bit of a relaxing afternoon. Timmy found it online and recommended it to the group and they all agreed to go out. Everyone took a couple of days to do their own thing and chill outside of their given training times. Luckily, today was a day off for everyone so they all were able to go on a group outing, something they haven’t done for a while. 

“It is, but not as stunning as you,” Sky whispered with a smile as he snaked his arm around Bloom’s waist, lightly pulling her into a kiss. 

“Gosh, get a room.” Stella shrieked as she brought a hand to her face, jokingly covering her eyes as her friend had a small makeout session in front of everyone.

“As if you won’t be all over Brandon once he gets back.” Musa snicked causing the others to laugh while Stella’s face went beat red. 

“Very funny Musa, you should’ve been a comedian instead,” Stella mumbled whilst Musa laughed and leaned over to give Stella a short side hug. 

“They come back tomorrow right?” Riven asked as he leaned back into the booth, his arms laid on the top whilst Musa leaned back into his side.

“Yeah, sometime afternoon they’ll be back,” Timmy said as he looked at his phone and showed Tecna some new tech news that was just released sending them into one of their usual and lovely nerdy conversations, tuning everyone else out.

“I’m gonna go get another drink, anyone else want anything?” Helia asked as he abruptly stood up, listening to a few of the drink orders his friends were mentioning before he walked off towards the bar. 

Truthfully, he didn’t want another drink but he didn’t want to hear about the conversation that would have been about his girlfriend right now. He missed her terribly but was a nervous wreck about how things were going to be once she returned. They’ve only briefly texted to make sure each other was okay but nothing other than that.

Helia walked up to the bar, ordering everyone’s drinks as he took a deep breath in, closing his eyes. He just wished he could go back in time to weeks ago when none of this madness was happening, where he was enjoying life with his friends and his girlfriend.

“You alright there Helia?”

Helia opened his eyes as he turned around to see Nabu with a smile on his face, walking next to him, leaning on the bar.

“Yeah, I’m good Nabu,” Helia said simply, not trying to drag on the issues anymore.

“You’re thinking about Flora, and you’re overthinking it man,” Nabu told him as he grabbed a drink that was being handed to him.

“It’s hard when she won’t even open up to me, I’m trying to be supportive, but it’s hard,” Helia told him truthfully as he looked at the ground, leaning both his arms on the bar.

“Look, I understand you wanting to know, I do. But you also have to see it from her side, Flora has just been given the news that she holds an ancient power, one that can kill her if she uses it, a crazy guy is after her, and she's unlocking a darker side to her powers, and her friends have been hurt. She is overwhelmed, and I understand her for not wanting to talk about everything, you just have to let her come to you because eventually, she will.” Nabu explained as he patted Helia on the back, trying to give him a bit of confidence in the matter.

“Yeah, you’re probably right. God, I guess I have to put my pride to the side, I know she would do that for me.” Helia confessed and Nabu nodded in agreement.

“Yeah man, I mean remember when Icy froze your heart, Flora never gave up on you, shoot, throwing herself into a showdown with Icy herself just for you. The girl loves you man, and you love her. Just communicate with her.” Nabu responded and Helia nodded his head.

“Yeah, she is. I don’t know how lucky I got when I met her, she truly is one in a million.” Helia told him and Nabu smiled and nodded.

“You got that right Helia, but, are you thinking about popping the quest-”

Nabu was cut off by an explosion, rattling the building, and the cries of people all around. Immediately the two got out their weapons and they raced back to where their friends were, already in battle with some sort of stone and mud monsters. They both wasted no time jumping into the fight, trying to take out as many enemies as possible.

“What the hell are these things?!” Bloom shouted as she blasted one into oblivion before looking around, spotting dozens of them causing chaos. 

“I don’t know, but surely has to be some of Thanato's work,” Layla shouted as she blasted a wave of water into a trio of monsters.

“Formations guys! Timmy, guide people out of here, Riven and Helia, form around Stella, she still can’t transform! Girls, you do your thing, Nabu, you’re with me!” Sky shouted out orders to the group as he sliced through one of the monsters who disintegrated on the spot. 

Riven and Helia were both stationed next to Stella who was trying to do some defensive magic which only came out as little bursts of energy, barely doing anything. 

“Stella, don’t try to overexert yourself, just let everyone else do everything,” Helia told the princess who huffed at his words whilst the specialist grabbed a monster with his glove and swung it into a wall, destroying it instantly 

Timmy was guiding people to safety, firing his weapon occasionally at any monster that went towards a civilian, only a few more people to evacuate, and then he could go help the others. Timmy felt himself being launched forward into the ground, his head bouncing off the floor before turning around in pain as he saw a monster standing above him. Timmy had no time to reach for his weapon as the monster swung his sword down on the specialist.

“Morphix Shield!” 

The monster's sword was broken on the impact of a shield popping up and seconds later was slammed out of view by a flow of water. Layla landed down next to Timmy, giving him a hand which he graciously took.

“Thanks, Layla, I owe you one,” Timmy said to his friend who smiled and nodded before flying back into the fight whilst Timmy began to join in as all the civilians were cleared out of the area. 

“Take that!” Riven shouted as he sliced through two monsters before turning around and slicing a few more. 

He felt a sharp pain in his side, knowing that it was his lingering injury, he brushed it off and kept fighting. He sure as hell was not going to seem weak in front of these monsters, his friends, or his girlfriend.

“Magnetic storm!” Tecna yelled as she took out a few of the monsters in her view before moving towards the building and started adding some structural assistance so the roof didn’t cave down on them all.

Musa was flying around, feeling sluggish in her transformation as she still wasn’t fully 100% back yet. She plowed through a few monsters before feeling herself stumble, suddenly feeling very weak. She knew her magic wasn’t ready for what she was exerting and it was fighting her on it.

Musa felt herself de-transform, leaving her vulnerable in front of a monster, making her eyes widen. She looked around, trying to find anything she could use to throw or hit the damn thing but unfortunately found nothing. As the monster approached and raised its sword, Musa stumbled backward, causing her to fall and await her doom as she placed both hands in front of her in an attempt to protect herself.

BANG!

Musa watched as the monster got smashed in the head by a…. Frying pan?? She turned her head slightly to see Stella twirling the pan in her hand, a smile on her face. 

“I couldn’t let you have all the fun.” The princess said as she stuck out her hand which Musa gratefully took.

“Thanks, Stella,” Musa said as the two made their way back towards Riven and Helia, giving them a better chance of staying safe through the fight.

Nabu and Sky were making quick work of the monsters around them, passing monsters off to one another, Nabu would launch one to Sky who would behead them. They were getting through twice as many monsters as the others until there were none left at all.

“Is everyone okay?” Bloom asked as she flew to the ground, transforming back into her normal clothes as she looked around at everyone.

As she scanned the group, she was happy to see everyone in one piece and no real injuries. 

“I believe so,” Nabu said as he walked over to Layla, double-checking his girlfriend for any injuries.

“Where did they even come from?” Sky asked the group and sadly, no one was able to answer the question.

“No Idea, but what I do know, is that was our sneak peek on what's to come,” Riven said as he sheathed his blades, slightly grabbing his side as he leaned on one of the broken tables.

“Right now, let's help get things cleaned up and then go tell the headmasters what just happened,” Sky told the group and everyone agreed.

Everyone helped out clean up the area, tending to any injured civilians before heading back to their respective schools, to inform others of their encounter.

Some relaxing day that was.

---------------------

Flora felt whole again as she walked through the forest of her home planet, breathing in the scent of the plant life around her. She felt energized, relaxed, and at peace, something she hasn’t felt in weeks. She brushed her hands along the leaves of some bushes, leaning in to smell flowers, and the occasional twirl as she walked. 

She loved being at home with her parents, but the solitude she received in the forest was something no one could recreate with others. Being one with nature brought out a side of her that no one could ever see unless they spotted her alone in the forest. She felt alive again as she continued her walk deeper into the forest, a route she used to walk all the time when she was younger.

Though, as she was walking, she noticed a wilted flower, and Flora furrowed her brows as she looked at it. 

“That’s not right, let me help you,” Flora whispered as she walked closer to it, muttering a quick spell as she began to heal its life back to a gorgeous bloom, a vibrating lavender color starting to show. 

“Much better,” Flora said to herself as she smiled at the flower before her until it started to wilt away once more.

“Huh?” Flora let out, and without another second redid the spell, adding more magic behind it so it would stay alive. 

Within seconds, the flower began wilting away once again, making Flora more confused than ever. She was on Lynphea, the planet of life, dead flowers weren’t a thing here. Unfortunately, she began to notice a darkened sky, the once clear light sky being replaced by a midnight blue, and dark clouds began to form. She has never seen something like this before on her planet, and she felt a chill go down her spine. 

She looked around to see all the plants starting to wither away and some even disintegrated, sending a jolt of pain through Flora’s core. Flora felt her heart rate speed up as she realized what was going on, this was exactly like her nightmare, only it wasn’t just in her head. 

This was real.

“Thanatos, where are you?” Flora asked through the pile of dead plants as she continued walking, her heart breaking at the sight of the dead fauna. 

“Right here sweetheart.”

Flora’s body tensed when she felt the voice in her ear, making her spin around, her emerald eyes meeting those of ice. Flora never knew what the feeling of hatred was like until this moment, she despised this man.

“Like what I did with the place?” He asked while pointing around to the dead trees and plants surrounding them.

“You are a monster.” Flora let out, her fists balled up before transforming into her bloomix form.

“LUXURIOUS IVY!” Flora launched at him, catching the white-haired man off guard, and sending him into a crippling tree that broke upon impact and crumbled to dust. Thanatos got up slowly with a smile on his face.

“I am no more a monster than you Flora.”

Flora looked at him like he was crazy, she never tried to kill someone on purpose. She always tried to keep things alive. She didn’t purposely try to continuously kill someone over and over, or try to hurt innocent people.

“You and I are nothing alike,” Flora responded sharply, launching another one of her attacks, missing slightly.

Flora clenched her jaw and threw another one of her attacks at Thanatos, hitting him square in the chest. She continued firing over and over, nailing Thanatos a few times in the chest, though he only got up, and every single time with his wicked smile on his face. 

“Kiss of death!” Flora shouted, utilizing one of her more recent spells, switching to her darker power in an attempt to take him down. 

She was so over his bullshit, she just wanted him out of her life forever. Fortunately for her, it hit him square on, sending him through a tree, but unfortunately for her, he got up after the attack. He had a light blood trail coming from his ear but still looked rather intact.

“You’ll need more than that pretty fairy.” He simply said before launching an attack towards Flora, though just barely having time to dodge it. 

“Winged Sorrow!” Flora shouted, as black leaves in the shapes of daggers sliced through the air, hitting Thanatos, and cutting his body up as he stumbled backward.

“Gravestorm.” Flora heard Thanatos whisper and before Flora could react, she felt herself lifted through the air, almost as if she was in a mini tornado and was slammed into a tree. 

Flora screamed as she made contact with the tree, clutching her leg that had a part of a branch sticking through it. Flora bit her lip to the point blood was drawn as she held in another scream, her leg was on absolute fire. Flora looked up to see Thanatos standing once again, blood falling from his face, arms, and even legs, yet he was still standing.

Flora tried inching away, crawling to a nearby tree, yelping as she used it to stand up straight even if her leg was telling her otherwise. Flora shot out another spell towards Thanatos which luckily sent him tumbling, giving her some more time. Unfortunately, she did nothing with it, she could barely even move, she knew flying wasn’t an option so she just prayed he would leave. 

“Ah, damsel in distress now?” Thanatos spoke, his voice sinister as he approached once again.

Let’s have some fun shall we?” He asked, before twirling his hand around and pointing it towards the nature fairy.

Flora screamed bloody murder as she felt the stick in her quad begin to twirl and move around, black dots starting to creep into her vision due to the pain. She blindly shot out spells, hoping for one to make contact to make the pain stop. She held onto the branch of the tree supporting her as if her life depended on it, screaming as the branch continued to move, slowly and excruciating. Until she felt it stop, then she finally let out the breath she didn’t realize she was holding.

“GET THE FUCK AWAY FROM MY SISTER” Flora barely lifted her head to see a flash of brown fly in front of her, seeing an amber glow in front of her. 

She first thought it was Miele, but remembered she wasn’t even here and it was a man's voice. She blinked a few times, allowing her vision to refocus as she locked eyes with Brandon who was staring at her, his eyes filled with concern before turning towards Thanatos. She spotted a staff in his hands, glowing an amber color as he emitted a blast from it, hitting Thanatos through a few trees. Finally, Flora saw the man struggle up to his feet. She watched as Brandon wasted no time in letting him get up, sending another blast toward the white-haired man, hurling him back farther. 

Flora stood up fully, as she prepared an attack to aid the specialist. She broke off a branch to utilize as a temporary crutch, slowly moving towards the brunette, yelping in pain at every step. 

“SPRING SHOWER!” Flora shouted as she launched one of her most powerful spells towards Thanatos, joining in with Brandon’s blast, sending Thanatos back farther. 

Thanatos was slow to rise, blood pouring from his mouth as he stared at the pair.

“That’s a new… development. I’ll be back.” Thanatos said, coughing in between breaths, before snapping his fingers and he became a dust of smoke.

Flora immediately felt the power leave her body, detransforming her as she dropped the branch supporting her. Black spots filled her vision as she swayed, seeing the ground come closer and closer to her face, placing one hand out to brace for impact. Only it never came, she felt a pair of strong hands grab her softly, slowly bringing her to the ground.

“Flor, you stay with me. I’m bringing you home. You’ll be okay.” Brandon whispered to his friend, his sister as he watched Flora’s eyes shut, and he just prayed it wasn’t for good. 

He picked her up bridal style after securing the branch in her leg, his concern growing at the amount of blood the nature fairy was losing. He took off towards her home, his home, hoping that he wasn’t too late.

---------

“Hey snookums!!” Stella shrieked to her boyfriend as she stared into the tv Tecna had hooked up to her laptop for their video calls. 

“Hey Princess, hey everyone, how are all of you?” Brandon asked the group as he flashed a forced smile at them.

“Oh Brandy, if only you were here today, there was an attack when we were out for lunch, monsters came out of nowhere. There were so many, we took care of them all, don’t you worry, and I even knocked one upside the head with a frying pan!” Stella told her boyfriend, excitedly explaining her frying pan moment while Brandon’s mouth fell open.

“What?! Is everyone okay?” Brandon asked as his eyes frantically started to search everyone’s faces, looking for any injuries.

“Yeah, we’re all good here, they weren’t overly strong, there was just a good bit of them. How are you? Where’s Flora?” Bloom responded before asking her questions to her friend on the screen.

“Well that’s good I suppose. I’m alright, a bit tired though. It was a long day. Right now, Flora is just resting.” Brandon said to the group and they all nodded, though looked skeptical.

“Why is Flora resting, I understand it’s a bit later for you guys, but surely she would still be up, especially for our video call,” Musa asked, saddened as she wasn’t able to see her friend.

Brandon bit his lip, not entirely sure how he should approach the conversation. After everything calmed down and he got Flora back to her parents, they practically had to operate on the nature fairy. Fortunately, her parents knew exactly what they were doing and managed to save Flora and even her leg, though she was completely drained and probably will be using a crutch for the next few days. 

“Brandon, what’s going on?” Bloom asked noticing the specialist's hesitation, unnerving the redhead.

After everything that happened today, she knew something else had to have gone wrong.

“Um, well. Flora almost lost her leg today.” Brandon broke the news to the group as he rubbed the back of his head.

The group stayed quiet for a moment, allowing his words to sink in before an eruption of screams occurred at the brunette.

“WHAT?!”

“LOST HER LEG?”

“IS SHE OKAY!?”

“BRANDON I GAVE YOU ONE JOB, WHAT DO YOU MEAN SHE NEARLY LOST HER LEG?!” Stella shouted the last bit towards her boyfriend as she sat up straighter on the couch, pointing a finger at her boyfriend.

“She wanted to go on one of her nature walks, she knew the route well and it was fairly close to her house so I let her. I didn’t want to hover her the whole time. How was I supposed to know that Thanatos was going to make an appearance?” Brandon responded, though sharing too much info once again because it became as silent as hearing a pin drop in a room.

Then came the screams once more.

“WHAT THE FUCK?”

“THANATOS?!”

“ARE YOU OKAY?”

Shouts carried through the room and Brandon grimaced, he looked down to his right where he saw Flora sleeping peacefully without a care for her friends shouting up a storm.

“Can you keep it down, Flora is asleep right next to me?” Brandon asked the girls who immediately shut their mouths upon hearing their friend's name.

“Brandon, you have some explaining to do,” Stella said as she crossed her arms, leaning back into the couch.

“Look, I was with o… her parents when it happened. Then suddenly the sky got dark and then we heard her scream. I ran there to find Flora who had a branch in her leg trying to fight him. I helped out and we managed to get him to leave.” Brandon told the group, stumbling in the beginning, nearly telling them his findings.

“Both of you got Thanatos to just leave? That’s highly unlikely, I mean Flora was injured, and you’re only one specialist.” Tecna said to the specialist who internally groaned, of course, Tecna would be the one to say something like that.

“Thanks for the vote of confidence Tec, but Flora and I make a pretty good team. I think he was just paying one of his visits.” Brandon responded, trying to save himself.

Brandon couldn’t go out and reveal everything he’s just learned, let alone what really happened at the battle. He couldn’t just come out and say “Oh by the way guys, I’m Flora’s long lost brother believed to be dead, I also happen to be a wizard and have this cool staff. I even got to use it against Thanatos, it was so cool!” No, that was an in-person conversation, not an over-video chat one.

“That doesn’t matter, as long as the two of you are okay,” Laya said and everyone else nodded their heads in agreement.

“We are, though we may stay an extra day, I’m not sure if Flora will be up for traveling and there have been some developments, so we have a lot to discuss tomorrow. We can explain everything when we get back, but I think I'm going to call it a night, I'm beat and I don’t want to wake Flora up.” Brandon told the group who once again nodded.

“Alright, stay safe, and if you need us on Lynphea, just call us. Keep a close eye on Flora from here on out.” Bloom told the specialist who nodded and both parties said their goodbyes before ending the call.

Brandon sighed as he placed his phone down and leaned back into the chair. He looked over at Flora’s peaceful sleeping form, almost as if she didn’t nearly just die hours earlier. He smiled, realizing that was his sister, in his presence, his parents down the hall, his family had been found. He vowed to himself that he wouldn’t let anything else hurt his sister ever, not while he was still breathing.

“Don’t worry sis, I won’t let anything happen to you again,” Brandon whispered as he stood up, and walked over to his bed, laid down, and closed his eyes for the night.

His family has been found.