Chapter 41: Selfless Risks, Sacrificing Reputations & Empathy Begins

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"Dear Uma, the Pirate Queen,

I am pleased to inform you that my friends and the boyfriend who broke up with me were right. I was shallow, dry, unable to compromise and most of my songs reflect how little I have grown in maturity.

I got so caught up in star singer fame and magic battles that I lost sight of who I originally wanted to be when I first stepped inside the gates of Alfea. I stepped way beyond the reach of my harshly aggressive father, dreaming of becoming a fairy of Music—the Fairy of Music, known for her respect for others. But my passive-aggressive attitude has deeply sidetracked me from that positive influence I wanted to be. It would be grand to be respected as the first singer who values the talents of others whether they're male or female, young or old.

The more sarcasm I used, the more I began to believe the "fake it till you make it" slogan plastered in magazines and billboards. I really did sink into believing it and no one made me do that but myself. The reason I am distant from my teammates right now is that I created a vast chasm between us. I blocked and suppressed my empathy too hard and it has drilled itself back to the forefront of my mind.

I know Mal has plans arranged with you though I promised to keep your reconciliation a secret. You have no idea how much I hope you both are finding a way to mend your friendship. The Fairy Godmother, Jane's mother, is switching school departments and Evie took on the temporary position. Mal wanted me to ask you—once your name is cleared this year—if you would consider taking on the full Headmistress position at Auradon Prep High School. It would be wonderful to see you flourish.

As for me, I am currently at the Fa family home which is where I finally dare to risk writing this. I am sure if you asked them, they'd look after you like a real family. They are not the types to judge like the rest of the realms, seeing as they, themselves, have been judged by both outsiders and actual citizens.

I truly hope you can learn the same hospitality I did from them—it's the first step in my journey toward being more empathetic and understanding, like the music I want to create. Whatever happens, know that I'm rooting for you.

Love sincerely, your friend,
Musa, Fairy of Music.

The letter floated gently on a purple musical sheet, dancing in the air as it made its way back to Uma's Sanctuary island. Uma stood on the rocky shore, feeling the salty breeze whip through her hair, and snatched it from the air just as Musa's voice echoed faintly around her—a melody full of sincerity and concern.

As she unfolded the letter, Uma gazed out at the vast ocean which, after days of staring at the endless waves, felt both confining and dreary.
"So soggy and drenched," She mumbled to herself contemplating the stark emptiness surrounding her. The sight of the dull sea had begun to weigh heavily on her spirit.

Earlier that morning, after breakfast, Musa had a heartfelt conversation with Mulan. They had moved to a quieter corner of the Fa family home where Musa took a breath to steady herself. "Mulan, I wanted to ask you something important," she began, her eyes earnest. "Would you and your parents be willing to shelter a villain kid currently cut off from her home and not welcome anywhere else in this land?"

Mulan raised an eyebrow, processing Musa's words. "You're referring to Uma, aren't you? Lonnie told me she was at the dance on the boat. Yes, we would gladly take that risk for her. It sounds like she's been through a lot."

Mulan continued her voice filled with warmth and understanding. "You've been impacted by her; I can see it in your eyes. It would broaden Shang's horizons and provide him with an incredible training partner to teach children. I can't imagine how bored she must be on that island. One can only stand there for so long before its colors begin to rust away the brain's thinking. Write to her and tell her she is welcome here as soon as the four of you return to Auradon. We'll keep her stay discreet for her sake."

Musa felt a wave of relief wash over her at Mulan's supportive response. This was a step towards not only helping Uma but also toward her own growth. "Thank you, Mulan. I really believe she could learn a lot from your family," Musa said her voice softening with gratitude.

Just as Musa finished writing, Evie came back into the room, her voice full of excitement.

"I haven't slept that well in a decade!" exclaimed Evie, her eyes sparkling with the energy of a good night's rest.

Musa gave a small smile, but her heart felt heavy with the weight of her thoughts. "I never slept so well since the day before I lost my mom," Musa remarked, the heaviness of nostalgia creeping into her tone.

Evie's expression softened, understanding the deeper meaning behind Musa's words. "You've carried so much with you, Musa. But look at how far you've come. You're stronger than you realize."

Musa nodded appreciatively, feeling the warmth of their friendship envelop her. "I just need to keep moving forward, even when it feels hard. Helping others find a place to belong could be my first step toward being more empathetic."

With a shared sense of purpose and understanding, they turned their attention back to their plans for the day, ready to embrace whatever challenges lay ahead. The bonds of friendship and the glimmer of hope illuminated their path, guiding them back toward the warmth of connection, both old and new.

Energy_Resonance2 Normaniforever4

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