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 woke before the sun, the faint glow of dawn casting soft shadows across her dorm room. The bond was quiet, its usual hum a gentle presence at the back of her mind. She stretched, savoring the rare stillness before the day began.
"Early riser now?" Terra teased, her voice groggy as she peeked out from under her blanket.
Vanessa smiled faintly. "Something like that. Just trying to get ahead."
"More like trying to keep up," Terra said with a yawn. "You've been pushing yourself pretty hard."
"I have to," Vanessa said, pulling on her boots. "If I don't, I'll fall behind."
Terra gave her a sleepy thumbs-up before rolling over. Vanessa chuckled softly as she grabbed her bag and headed out, her footsteps echoing down the empty hallways of Alfea.
By the time Vanessa reached the training hall, Alexander and Sky were already there. Alexander was practicing with his sword, his movements precise and deliberate, while Sky worked on agility drills, his blond hair damp with sweat.
"You're late," Alexander said, glancing at Vanessa as she entered.
"Good morning to you too," Vanessa replied, rolling her eyes. "It's not even 6 a.m."
"Excuses," Alexander said, but there was a flicker of amusement in his green eyes.
Sky jogged over, a grin on his face. "Don't mind him. He's just grumpy when he hasn't had his coffee."
"I heard that," Alexander said, his tone dry.
Vanessa laughed, the tension in her shoulders easing. Training with Alexander and Sky had become the highlight of her days-not because it was easy, but because it was the one place she felt truly connected to them.
"Let's get started," Alexander said, tossing Vanessa a training sword.
Their session began with sparring drills. Alexander paired off with Vanessa, his movements calculated and measured. He pushed her harder than usual, correcting her form with curt but effective instructions.
"Keep your stance low," Alexander said as he deflected her swing. "You're leaving yourself open."
Vanessa gritted her teeth, adjusting her posture. "I'm trying."
"Try harder," Alexander said, his tone firm but not unkind.
Sky, watching from the sidelines, smirked. "Careful, Alex. You're going to scare her off."
"She's tougher than that," Alexander replied, his green eyes flicking to Vanessa. "Aren't you?"
Vanessa met his gaze, determination flaring in her chest. "Damn right I am."
The bond buzzed faintly as they resumed, the connection sharpening their reflexes and movements. By the end of the session, Vanessa was drenched in sweat but felt a flicker of pride in her progress.
"Not bad," Alexander said, handing her a water bottle. "You're getting there."
"High praise," Vanessa said with a wry smile. "Coming from you."
Sky clapped her on the back. "Take it as a win. Alex doesn't compliment just anyone."
"Thanks, I guess," Vanessa said, laughing.
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