Vanessa has spent her life believing she was abandoned, shuffling between neglectful foster homes and haunted by strange nightmares. When her suppressed magic resurfaces, she is thrust into the mysterious world of Alfea, a school for fairies. There...
Vanessa sat on the windowsill in her dorm room, staring out at the courtyard below. The aftermath of the Burned One's attack lingered like the scent of ozone in the air. Repairs were underway, and while the students went about their routines, the tension was palpable. For Vanessa, the battle had left more than just physical exhaustion; it had cemented the reality of her bond with Alexander and Sky.
The connection between them pulsed faintly in the back of her mind, a reminder that she was no longer alone. But with that connection came responsibility, and Vanessa couldn't shake the feeling that she was falling behind.
"Penny for your thoughts?" Terra's voice broke through her reverie.
Vanessa turned to see her roommate standing in the doorway, a cup of tea in hand. "Just thinking about everything," Vanessa said with a sigh. "The bond, the battle, what comes next."
Terra walked over, handing Vanessa the tea before sitting on the bed. "You've been through a lot, Nessa. It's okay to take a breath."
Vanessa gave a weak smile. "It doesn't feel like there's time for that."
"Well, if anyone can handle it, it's you," Terra said confidently. "You've got two soulmates and the kind of powers that make most fairies jealous. You've got this."
Vanessa chuckled softly. "Thanks, Terra."
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The next morning, Vanessa met Alexander and Sky in the training hall. It had become their routine—a way to strengthen both their bond and their abilities. Alexander stood by the weapon rack, inspecting a sword, while Sky stretched near the sparring mats.
"You're late," Alexander said without looking up.
Vanessa rolled her eyes. "I needed coffee. Sue me."
Sky grinned. "Fair enough. Coffee is basically survival."
Alexander handed Vanessa a practice sword. "Let's start with basics today. Your footwork needs work."
Vanessa groaned. "What is it with you and footwork?"
"It's the foundation of combat," Alexander said matter-of-factly.
Sky laughed. "You'll get used to him. He's like this with everyone."
"Am I supposed to be comforted by that?" Vanessa muttered, earning another laugh from Sky.
They began their session with drills, Alexander leading the way with his usual precision. Vanessa found herself falling into a rhythm, the bond making it easier to anticipate her partners' movements. Sky's quick reflexes complemented Alexander's methodical approach, and Vanessa's elemental magic added an unpredictable edge to their strategy.
"Better," Alexander said after an hour, his green eyes studying Vanessa with a hint of approval. "Your balance has improved."
"Thanks," Vanessa said, feeling a small flicker of pride. She glanced at Sky. "You're awfully quiet today."
