Chapter 17.

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Don't even think about questioning the image above

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Don't even think about questioning the image above.

                        ⑅ ♥̩̥̩♥̩̩̥͙♥̩͙ˊˎ


Alethea's POV:

"Don't worry, girls. I promise—I can hold on," Stella's voice rang out, steady but edged with strain.

I slowly blinked my eyes open, the dull ache in my body a sharp reminder of the danger we were in. For a moment, I just watched Stella, standing firm, her magic a protective barrier against the biting cold, her strength holding us together.

"You're incredible, Stella," I whispered, my voice soft but sincere. With effort, I pushed myself to sit up, the pain in my muscles flaring, but my determination pushing me forward. "But you can't do this by yourself."

Stella shook her head without even glancing at me, her golden hair flickering in the dim, icy light. "I have to. If I stop, that ice snake will strike. It'll freeze us solid—or worse." Her voice faltered for just a second, but she regained control quickly. "But I'm running low... I can't keep this up much longer."

"Then let me help," I said, my hand trembling as I reached out and touched her arm. My voice was gentle, yet firm. "You've done so much already—let me take some of this weight off your shoulders."

Stella's amber eyes locked with mine, filled with both pride and worry. "Alethea, no. You'll burn out your Winx. I can't let that happen."

"And I can't watch you wear yourself down completely," I insisted, my voice unwavering but softer with emotion. "You need rest, Stella. Please."

There was a long, heavy silence before Stella's resolve finally cracked. With a hesitant nod, she sank to the ground, exhaustion heavy in her posture. I kneeled beside her, gently resting a hand on her shoulder. "Thank you for trusting me," I murmured, my words a quiet promise.

Taking a deep breath, I focused inward, summoning the warmth of my magic. My aura flared in a soothing, cerulean light as I extended my hands. "Water Dome," I murmured, and a shimmering barrier of liquid magic enveloped us, insulating us from the relentless cold. The strain was immediate, but I pushed through, my sweet nature fueled by a determination to protect my friends.

Flora knelt beside me, her gentle expression lined with worry. "Alethea, darling, you should rest too."

"I can't," I said, my voice quiet but unyielding. "If I stop, the cold will win. I'll hold on as long as I can... I promise."

Aisha placed a steadying hand on my shoulder, her voice filled with sisterly concern. "You're going to burn yourself out. Let us help."

Before I could respond, Musa darted forward, her firm grip pulling my hands away. The barrier faltered and dissolved, leaving us exposed. My body gave out, collapsing into Musa's arms, and I gasped for air as exhaustion overtook me.

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