The courtyard of Merlin Academy was alive with its usual midday buzz—students chattering, books open on stone benches, the occasional spell flickering in the air as students practiced their magic. But amid the lively atmosphere, a more familiar scene unfolded near the fountain.

Bridget clutched her books to her chest, her light pink curls bouncing as she took a cautious step back. Ella, standing beside her, squared her shoulders despite the nervous flicker in her eyes. In front of them stood Uliana and her gang, a semi-circle of menace blocking their path.

"You know, I think pink just isn't your color," Uliana mused, twirling a lock of her jewel-toned hair around her finger. "Or maybe it's just not your personality. Too… sickly sweet."

Morgie smirked, leaning against the fountain. "Like a piece of candy that’s gone stale."

Hook chuckled, idly tapping his golden hook against the stone. "That’s generous. More like a candy wrapper. All frills, no substance."

Bridget’s hands tightened around her books, but she held her chin high. "Just let us pass. We don't want trouble."

Hades let out a low, amused chuckle, the tips of his fingers glowing faintly blue. "Trouble? You say that like it isn't already here."

Maleficent stepped forward, examining her nails. "I mean, we could just let you go, but where’s the fun in that?"

Before the taunts could escalate, a voice cut through the group—sharp, unexpected. "That’s enough."

The air seemed to shift as one of Uliana’s own stepped forward, placing themselves between the VKs and their intended victims. Their expression was unreadable, but there was a challenge in their stance, an unspoken defiance in their eyes.

The group fell silent, shocked at the unexpected interruption.

Uliana tilted her head, studying her gang member with intrigue. "Oh? What’s this? Feeling sentimental all of a sudden?"

Morgie raised an eyebrow. "Didn’t think you were the type."

Bridget looked up, surprised by the intervention. The person standing before her wasn’t someone she had ever expected..