That's Not Fairy

That's Not Fairy is the second episode of **Wood Job!**

### **Hi, my name is ...**

A man is riding a horse in the deep of the woods. Every shadow remminds of an animal, producing creepy forms, but nothing stops him. The horse runs fast, crushing leafs, until it reaches a forest clearing, with a big black tree at the center, that has a hole that resembles a woodden door. The man jumps down the horse, and ties it up to a branch. Then, he presses his hand against it, but instead of simply leaning on it, the hand gets past a blue aura that surrounds the woodden door suddenly, and the man pushes himself to the front, going throught the door, and losing the forest view, entering in a completely different zone.

- Wow. - Is the only word that actually comes up from his mouth, as he notices what is in front of him. There is a full half city-half forest, a weird mix of buildings and trees, with roads, and some bridges that go from tree to tree. On those roads and bridges, some shinning silouettes that look like floating, are moving. Nobody seems to have noticed the newcomer. Nobody but...

- Hello. - The man turns back, and sees a chubby woman, probably on her 40ies, in a red dress. She has her brown hair in a bun, and wears a couple of red slippers, but her most significant trait are her shiny wings, that emerge from her back. - I am Mayor May, proud mayor of this beautiful place. And you, sir, are...?

- Is this Ardevseen? - Says the man. - The city of the magic? Where fairies live?

- Possibly. - Mayor May's big smile has disappeared. - Deppending on who you are.

- Do you know Torth? - Says the man. - From what I know, he was a famous fairy.

- I did knew him. - She says, a bit upset. - I was sad when he disappeared. He was a great fairy. Really powerful.

- From what I've been told, I can guess. - He says. - And I know why he disappeared. He was my father.

- What? - Mayor May makes a nervous laugh. - He was a fairy godfather, they don't have...

- He did. - The man hurries. - He left his job when he fell in love with the woman he was helping. He kept his powers, but was no longer the godfather.

- So... you are Torth's son? - She says.

- I am. - The man tells. - So, tell me, is this Ardevseen?

- It is. - She says, after thinking for a while. - Why did you come here?

- I came to do what my father couldn't do. - He says. - Become an actual fairy godfather. And my mother says here they make the best ones.

- Believe her. We do. - Says Mayor May. - As Torth's son, you totally have the rights to learn. But what's your name? I don't remember you said it...

- Bruno. - Says him, as his face is seen.

### **Something to begin with**

- And then... BOOM! - Wolf shouts, as Hansel, Gretel and Garrett sceam. The first two hug each other. Eric, behind them, looks amused. They are all four sitting on logs and rocks, in a circle, as Wolf is on her foot, telling a story.

- A-and it ate you? - Asks Hansel, shivering.

- Yes. - Wolf says. - I am sad to tell you, but it did. - She adds, as the brothers gasp. Erica laughs.

- What are you laughing at? - Asks Gretel. - This is serious! - But she sees Wolf is laughing too.

- How can you believe it ate me? I am right here! - Wolf says.

- Oh. - Gretel facepalms, as Hansel is surprised. - Forgot it was you, who we were talking about.. I mean.. Forgot you were the narrator and the character...

- But if the wolf didn't eat you, what happened? - Garrett still asks for the story's end, in his ridiculous voice tone.

- Oh, my friends... - Wolf follows. - Because I was lucky, and when he was about to swallow me alive, and I was able to see all his terryfying teeth, a Huntsman appeared and with an arrow, he...

An arrow crosses the air, and gets stuck at a close tree. They all jump, and turn around, spotting Dallas with a bow and some arrows.

- Sorry. - He says, raising a hand. - Wasn't planning to cut you. Missed a shot.

- Oh. - Wolf says. - No problem. Wanna join us?

- No, thanks. - He says. - I still have some warming to do. You know... learning more about the environment in here...

- Oh, ok. - Says Wolf. - Good luck! - But as she said "Ok", he had already run away. - This guy's weird...

- I know... - Says Garrett. - But also hot... - Adds him, as he fans himself with his hand, making Wolf laugh.

- He's not a bad guy, if you give him a chance... - Says Erica. - We were able to team up without many issues...

- Excepting he was going to shot me with an arrow. - Says Wolf, and then, points at the tree. - Twice.

- This one was an accident... - Erica says. - And I bet he wouldn't really shot. Does he look like a killer?

- Well... - Says Gretel.

- Somewhat... - Adds Hansel.

- Whatever. - Says Wolf. - Let's follow with my tale, will we?

- Yeah! - The brothers and Garrett cheer, but Erica isn't that happy.

- Do you know where the rest of the team is? - Asks she.

- Hmm... - Wolf wonders for a second. - You've already seen Mr. Social... And I think Fairypants is explaining a bit the up and downs of his job to CC. Afterall, he's her new godfather...

- I guess... - She says, unconvinced.

- Can I follow now? - Erica nods, slowly. - Great. When the arrow the hunter shot missed, the wolf turned to him, opened his mouth, jumped and...

- YAAAAWN! - The scene changed, and shows Drowsy, that's in the middle of a yawn.

- Easy girl... - Pinocchio laughs.

- Not something to laugh about... - Her eyes start to close. - What would you do, if you had this curse?

- Hey, sorry, I was just joking... - Pinocchio blushes, well, as wood can blush.

- So, you two knew each other? - Asks Elliot, that's sitting next to them.

- Not really... - Pinocchio has to answer, because Drowsy is already asleep. - But I usually befriend outcast fast, as I am one myself.

- Can't say I am not one. - Says Elliot.

- So, what's your story? - Asks Pinocchio.

- What do you mean, by that? - Asks Elliot, confused.

- I mean, do you have any kind of traumatic memories? Dramatic story? Something like that... - Pinocchio explains. - I know it's none of my buisness, but it's always a good theme to talk about... Some people just love to complain!

- You're calling me a complainer? - Elliot seems offended.

- No, no! - Pinocchio says. - I.. just...

- Mr. Elliot Flint? - Jack appears, handing Elliot a letter.

- Hmm... What? - He grabs it, as Jack leaves.

- Open it! - Says Pinocchio.

- Hmm... - Elliot breaks the envolture, and reads. - "Mr. Flint, I would be really pleased if you could attend right now the royal reunion I have planned, a couple of paths from here. ROYALS ONLY. Come alone. Jack"

- Royals? - Asks Drowsy. - As if there were a lot of royals in here...

- Asleep for the trouble, awake for the thrill... - Comments Pinocchio. - You should go. Don't let Mr. Royal to be upset without your presence...

- I won't let down him, then... - He walks. - I'll tell you after... - And he runs throught the woods, as Pinocchio shrugs as Drowsy falls asleep again. When he reaches the indicated place, he only finds Nieves sitting on a cut tree, and Jack walking in circles. - Hey! - He raises his hand, in a waving way.

- Good morning. - Says Jack. - Care to sit there? - And points a sit next to Nieves.

- Sure... - Elliot sits there, and waves at Nieves, that ignores him.

- So, mind to tell us what is this? - Asks Nieves.

- Yes, Lady. - Jack says. - I've noticed we're the only three people in this place that come from royalty. It's important from us to stay together, to win this over the peasants around.

- You r-really think it's a necessity? - Asks Elliot.

- It's the main priority... We have to show this people we still are better than them, even on a game. - Says Jack.

- So, what are you planning? - Asks Nieves, bored.

- Planning? - Jack seems confused. - I had to plan anything? We're a team, thought we could plan between us three...

- And by us three you mean me... - Says Nieves. - Typical. Let the girls think...

- I am sure I didn't say anything about the girls, Lady Nieves. - Says Jack. - But, does anybody have any idea about what to do?

- No. - Says Elliot. - Can we leave this for another day?

- Whatever. - Says Jack, sighing. - Put remember we have to stick together. Deal?

- Yeah. - Says Nieves. - I have no problem with having an alliance.

- Deal... - Says Elliot, after thinking it.

- Perfect! - Jack smiles, and offers them a plate. - Want some tea?

Meanwhile, on another part of the forest:

- So, what kind of magic do you have? - Asks CC to Bruno, near a small stream of water, where he's cleaning his hands.

- Most of all, light magic. - Says Bruno, without showing much interest. - I can protect you if you're in any kind of danger, or give you nice gifts. You know, as long as it isn't meant to kill or hurt, pretty much everything but the basic laws of the magic. Do you know them?

- The magic does have laws? - Asks her.

- Everything has laws, my dear. - Says him, as he rolls eyes. - But for magic, there are a few things that can't be done, such as bringing someone from the other side, despite you can contact with them, make someone love you, even when you can make them thing they love you, or change the past, even when you can change the memories into believing in a fake past. There are laws, but as always, there are also loopholes.

- You can... change people's memories? - CC's mouth changes into a grin.

- Yes. I wouldn't do it, because it always brings trouble. But I can do it. - Says him. - Still, don't forget every magic comes with a prize.

- Yeah, whatever. - She shrugs. - But now you can do that for me?

- Now? - He asks. - Now, now?

- Now, now. - She says. - Why so doubtful?

- Well... I've never done this before... - He scratches his head, and takes off his hat.

- You're a newbie at this? - She laughs.

- I graduated recently. It's far more difficult than you'll ever imagine... - Says him, trying to deffend himself.

- But, can you just do this? I am sure you already practised... - She says.

- I just imagined my first time a bit more different... - Says him. - But nevermind... - He takes a deep breath.- Now you can say what you want, cause I am about to...

- ATTENTION EVERYONE! - Keith's voice cuts them. - I NEED EVERYONE AT THE MEETING AREA! IT'S CHALLENGE TIME!

### **Say goodbye to your old life, pick your new one**

- Here it is! - Mayor May opens a door, and light enters in a room, showing many shelves with different outfits.

- It's impressive, despite there's no much light in here... - Comments Bruno, but as he says so, Mayor May claps her hands, and many small blue lights appear floating in the room, showing it being actually big, with so many shelves. There's also a closed golden door in a wall. - Now, it's actually impressive.

- This is a very important place, Bruno. - Says the big fairy. - Every fairy, after entering in the university, says goodbye to their old life, accepting a new one, completely different, serving others, refusing to yourself. The first symbol of it is picking a new outfit, that does wash itself with magic, and refuse any other kind of clothes.

- Oh. - Says him. - And I can pick any of those?

- As long as you remember that it's forever... - Says her. - I have been like this for years... Aside from that I wasn't this heavy... And old.

But Bruno isn't listening to her. He's already looking throught the clothes, moving them with his hands, looking for his special outfit. But none seems to convince him. Mayor May stares at him, as he does check it all. He, then, finds a white groom outfit, with a blue shirt. He takes his one out, and puts on the new one, as long as the superior part of the outfit. The next scene shows his pants going down, and a white ones going up, and then, he puts on a couple of black shoes. He also puts on a black tie, and finally, he gets a white hat that was lying on a close chair.

- I think I am done. - Bruno's new look is the same as the one he is shown to wear in the current life.

- I can't comment on the looks of the students, but it does look great. - Mayor May does smile at him, but Bruno, still has an annoyed look on his face. - Are you ok?

- I am. - He quickly says, as he does look around.

- Ok, now you need the most important part... - She says. - The wand. You need your wand.

- The wand? Is it chosen like with the clothes? - He asks.

- Oh, it's similar. - She says. - But, unlike with your outfit, you will know it, you'll feel it.

Bruno nods, and follows Mayor May into the golden door. The room inside is way bigger, with many many wand, from different colors and sizes. Bruno walks into the room, leaving the woman behind, as he looks at the wands. He advances, until he stops in front of a blue one, that looks exactly the same as the one that was floating in the forest the last episode. He grabs it, as a blue wave does epand throught the air.

- I think you've found the proper one... - Adds Mator May, as Bruno can't do anything othr than agreeing.

### **Don't Relay on me**

The meeting area outside the woods looks similar as the day before, with no visible changes aside from a couple of big logs on the floor, where the members of the two teams are sitting, Ever After on the right, Spicy Boom on the left. Keith is there, looking, as the contestants arrive.

- Is there everyone in here? - Keith asks. - 2, 4, 6... Yeah, pretty much.

- So, what's our first challenge as teams? - Asks Ruth. - Can't wait to destroy you, guys! - Follows her, with her fist.

- I wouldn't be that cocky, because you can get burned! - Says Wolf, making Ruth stand up, and start going at her direction, as Pinocchio and Elliot hold her back.

- Well, aside from you guys destroying each other, the first challenge as teams will be... - He tries to make it more thrilling with a pause, as he raises his arms. - A relay race! - Ruth, Jack and Bruno are the only ones to find it exciting, as the others are either indifferent or a bit disappointed. Still, Iris makes some fireworks explode behind her. - Thank you.

- Do not take this wrong, sir, but why is this the first challenge? Is there any reason? - Asks Richard, kindly.

- Because, right now, you're on even numbers, something that will probably don't last long... - Explains Keith. - So, we thought it was better to make specific challenges just in case this could happen. - And he shows a list, with a small part with the title "Challenges for even number teams" and another one on "challenges with different teammate number". - And we thought a good one to start with was this one.

- What can we say after all this logic? - Says Erica, laughing.

- I'll better explain the different parts of it fast... - Says Keith.

- Why are you happy about it? - Asks Nieves to Jack. - I personally think this sucks...

- Well, you can't imagine a better chance to show this losers who are we, can you? - He says. - Royalty first! - She rolls eyes, but they don't notice how Richard looks particularlly offended by that comment, with a death glare that would totally make Jack poop on himself if he actually could see what he's doing.

- So, what are the different parts? - Asks Dallas, as he cuts a stick with his boot's knife, making it pointy.

- Well, there will be six different parts, two of them requiring two of you in the relay, not just one. - Keith starts. - The first part takes place at the pointy drop. One of each team will have to cross that bridge that crosses a ravine. The wood is all old, and could break, sending you to a horrible death, in a pit full of pointy, venomous, Dreamshade. - Some contestants swallow saliva.

- Dreamshade? - Asks Gretel. - What's that?

- A small bush, with many spikes. - Says Dallas. - A single touch makes it's black venom enter in your blood, and kills you slowly and painfully, eating all your energy, and leaving you in a sea of pain. - Hansel and Gretel gasp, and hug.

- Dude! - Says Erica. - Chill!

- She asked for the truth, not a fairy tale... - Dallas looks confused. - What have I done wrong?

- Kind of that. - Says Keith. - But don't worry, none of you can actually fall there. We have many interns, ready to use either a web or a charm, that will get you out of the bad situation... Probably.

- P-Probably? - CC looks paler, and Pinocchio also does, if wood can get pale.

- The second part is easier. - Keith ignores the question, but looks a bit concerned. - You just have to run across this field, that is filled with explosive potions. If they contact with something that's hotter than the regular heat, they'll probably raise you a few metres from the ground... And of course, you'll do this part barefoot.

- How's this easier? - Asks Elliot, but gets ignored.

- On the next part, you'll have to enter in this giant wheel, standing on a log, that is really unstable. You can fall to the mud that's below. This requires two members of the team instead of one. This is unstable, but you can help each other by throwing the other team members out. - Follows him. - Next, you go to that tree that you have to climb, covered in grease, to reach the top, where the other two members of the team will be waiting, to go down the hill, gliding on a zip-line, both using the baton to cross another ravine, again with Dreamshade.

- Perfect. - Says Wolf, rolling her eyes.

- And finally, a last run to the finish line, the easiest one, but still, there are some metres to run... - Keith says. - The first one to hand the baton wins.

- How will it be decided who goes at each part? - Asks, Ruth, willing to start.

- It will be decided by the world's best invention... - Says Keith, as everyone looks thrilled. - A RANDOMIZER!

- And what is that, exactly? - Asks CC.

- Well... This is mostly an item that doesn't need any kind of magic, and is fully based on energy. - Explains Keith. - It works as one of those engines you can see at some routing funfairs, where you can test your strenght by hitting a certain plank with a hammer. In this case, you hit that red plank over there, and the images of team members will be moving on the screen right there. It took a lot to do that.

- I can see. - Says Jack. - Can I go first, I feel so strong today... as usual. - He flexes his biceps, but Keith presses a finger against the prince's lips.

- Wait. Not so fast. - Says the host. - The ones to use their strenght will be the team captains, aka, Elliot and Wolf.

- What? - Wolf doesn't look like she likes the idea. Elliot simply shrugs.

- As the team members are selected, I'll take the images out of the screen. - Says Keith. - You can start. Ladies first, Wolf.

- Fine. - She looks bothered, as she grabs the hammer, and struggles to raise it from the ground. Then, she drops it on the plank. The teammates go fast throught the screen, as it stops on Garrett.

- Eek. - Garrett looks a bit frightened. - D-Dreamshade...

- I go now! - Elliot grabs the hammer, as Jack pats his back. He presses the plank strongly, and the screen goes crazy. It finally stops on Ruth, after nearlly landing on Nieves.

- Yes! - Ruth raises her fist, as Nieves sighs in relief. - An actual challenge!

- Wolf, you're up again! - Says Keith.

- I guess... - Wolf says, again, uninterested.

The scenes go faster, as Dallas and Iris selected for the explosive field, Elliot and Jack against Wolf and CC on the wheel, with a small comment from Keith about bpth captains being on the same part, Erica and Richard on the tree climb, the brothers, Pinocchio and Nieves on the hang glide and, finally, Drowsy and Bruno on the final run.

- Well... - Says Keith. - That's it pretty much! I leave you some minutes just for everyone to go to their spot, and when you hear the whistle, you can start!

### **Ok, this wasn't a good idea**

Bruno enters in a room, that is enormous, full with empty chairs, with just a couple of young girls in it. One is sitting at the front line, writting on a notebook, as the other is nearlly at the end, using her wand to make her hair turn black, and longer.

- Can I sit here? - Asks Bruno, to the blonde girl in the front.

- Sure, why not? - Answers her, with a smile, as she changes her bag to the other side of the chair.

- So, is this the class of Fairy Godparent studies? - Asks Bruno, as he sits and takes out some books from his bag.

- Yes. - Says the girl. - But that's on the door. You had doubts?

- Well... - Says Bruno. - I just expected this to be less...

- Empty? - Finishes her. - It's a bit sad, but not many people dares to take this career. Since last year, it's just me and Eloise. - She adds, pointing at the girl on the back. - Name's Marian, by the way.

- Bruno. - He says. - Why did you say that not many people dares to take this?

- Being a fairy Godparent is one of the hardest jobs a fairy can get in here. - Marian says, as she plays with her hair. - It requires sacrifice. You must know that this takes all you life. You have to forget about yourself, and always be ready to serve someone else, with no care at all for your own desires. People just doesn't accept that. Besides, your magic has to be really superior to be able to join this.

- Well... It isn't that hard... - Says him, trying to feel more confident.

- Oh, it is! - She says. - If the person you're serving demands your presence, no matter how far you are or what are you doing, you'll simply appear right where it is! It happened to my mother once, when she was having se-

- So, your family are also fairy godparents? - Asks Bruno.

- More or less. - Says her. - My mother is a fairy godmother, but my father is a water fairy. That's why I find it easier to use water magic. - And she adds. - Eloise's parents are both guardian fairies, that protect places like castles or museums with spells. But, she has decided to take this career,t hat's more like a "bodyguard". What about you?

- Well, my father was a fairy godfather. - Says him.

- Oh, there are not many male fairy godfathers... - She says. - Usually, male fairies preffer elementary magic or being guardians. It does sound less girly to them, and those jobs don't have this much responsability. Not trying to offend you, of course.

- Don't worry. - He says. - I did somehow hear that. I am just here to do what he couldn't do.

- Who was he? - She asks. - If he's a male, then probably he's famous.

- I think he is. - He follows. - He was called Torth.

- Woah! Torth!? - Marian is impressed. - He is really famous! The best male godfather, that mysteriouslly disappeared! I didn't know he had a son...

- Neither you or anybody. - He says. - But here I am!

- Good morning! - The door opens, and another fairy gets in, but an older one. - I see we have a new face!

- Good morning. - Says him. - My name's Bruno. I am new on here.

- I see. - The fairy says. - Well, I am Mrs. Goldenleaf, your main teacher around. You'll spend almost all of your classes with me, so better get along with me well...

- I'll do my best. - He bows his head.

- Well, I think your first lesson will have to show us all the magic in you! - She says. - You three, come here. You'll have to change this snail into a mouse. Something that's pretty hard, with one being boned, and another one not... But let's see how you manage!

With a single hit of her wand, Eloise makes the snail perfectly shapeshift into a mouse, with no snail traits left.

- It was an easy one. - She says, as she goes back to her sit.

Marian goes next, and has to touch the snail three times, until it turns into a green slimy mouse, with no tail at all. She giggles.

- Well, it's something, right?

- It clearly is... - Goldenleaf says. - Now let's see how Bruno manages...

Bruno gets up from his sit, a bit nervous, but with a confident look. He takes the wand out from his pocket, and points at the snail on the table. He focuses, and feels the blood on his arm to be concentrated. He does stare at it, as a sweat tear goes down his cheek. He then, feels dizzy, as some sparkles get out from the wand, and he faints, falling to the ground with a huge sound.

Bruno's eyes open, and he is seen lying on a bed, at an infarmary. Mayor May is at his side.

- How are you feeling? - She asks.

- What happened? - He asks, softly.

- You fainted after trying to use magic. - She says. - Probably, it's all due to your half human nature, that it took too much energy from you.

- It's because it was my first time, I'll be able to do more soon!

- I don't doubt it. - She says. - But maybe, this wasn't a good idea...

- It was. - He says, shotuing, probably to convince himself. - It was.

### **Keep moving**

Garrett and Ruth are standing close to each other, in front of the bridge. Each of them is holding a baton of different colour, blue for him, red for her.

- Break a leg! - Says Garrett, nervous.

- You'll probably break one, literally. - Says her. - You don't look able of doing pretty much anything.

- So nice... - He rolls eyes, as Keith uses the whistle.

Ruth quickly advances Garrett, with a glare, and runs into the bridge, that shakes under her feet, as she stops. Garrett runs with his eyes closed, and his hands up, until he bumps into her, making her advance, and breaking a woodden plank where her left leg is standing.

- What are you trying, loser? - Ruth says, as she tries to step again to her back, with a mad look on her face.

- I am just trying not to die! - Garrett says, annoyed too. It's not his fault, afterall, to be in that challenge.

- Well, try it a few metres away from me! - Says her, screaming and raising her arms.

- Maybe you'll be the one some metres behind me! - Says Garrett, pointing at her face. - At least, in fashion. A swan dress... And they call my mother Cruella...

- IT'S. NOT. REAL! - Ruth seems more annoyed now, as her face lights in red.

- As your eye colour. I am pretty sure those are lents. - Garrett says. - And don't get me started on the boobs. If they're real, I am Golden Locks!

- HOW DARE YOU?! - Ruth jumps to him, and he ducks, amking her break more planks, and end up hanging on  rope.

- You should control those rage issues.. - Says Garrett. Shortly after, he starts humming a silly song, and jumping softly from plank to plank.

Ruth takes deep breaths, and uses the ropes to jump back into the bride, in a ballerina pose.

- And you should control your mouth! - Says her, mad, running to Garrett, as every single plank behind her breaks down, and he advances, screaming like a girl. She finally jumps at him, tackling him down, just at the end of the bridge, as it breaks and falls down to the Dreamshade.

- Phew. That was so close. - Says him, crushed by her, in relief.

- Close? - She says. - I got you!

- You don't scare me as much as the Dreamshade. - He says, as she looks fiercely to him. - Ok, maybe a little bit...

- Hey, lovebirds! - Iris screams. - Planning to hand over the baton, or you preffer keep cuddling?

- We aren't... - Says Ruth, blushing, with the annoyed look still.

- Eeew.  Her? - Garrett gets up, and approaches to Iris and Dallas, that are staring at them. - Never. I am more on another kind of people... Huh, Hercules? - Tells him to Dallas, as he gives him the baton.

- O-Ok... - Dallas takes it, and starts running.

- C'MON, MY FAIR LADY! - Says Iris, with her head turned into a megaphone.

- Here! - And presses it against her chest. - Now go!

- Arrr, yah, captain! - As she turns into a pirate, and runs after Dallas.

Dallas runs throught the field, with the baton on his hand, until he stops suddenly.

- I felt there was a potion buried there. - Explains him in the confessional. - It's a rare done I have. I can detect when something isn't where it should be. A plus of not being raised by humans. They tend to understimate things like that...

Dallas jumps over the part where he thinks that the bottle is, and keeps running. As he does the same some other times, Iris approaches to him, floating on a cloud.

- What's up? - She says, scaring him.

- How did you...? - He starts. - Wait, is this even approved by the rules?

- The rules say clearly that any special hability the contestant has can be used in his or her own benefeit, or the team's. - She says, transforming into a nerdy girl, still with pink hair, floating on the cloud. - And if you still complain, well, you also have used your done, or whatever...

Dallas glares, but keeps advancing, with her floating upside down on his side.

- Hey, wanna see something funny? - She asks, and not even waiting for the answer, she drops herself to the floor, making an explosion that sends Dallas behind, but also herself.

- What was that for? - Screams him, as coughing.

- Oh, well, a little gift from Spicy Boom! Hahah! - She says, as she floats away, only to drop herself again into another explosive, getting sent away.

- What the...? - Dallas says, as he gets up. - Whatever. - And keeps on running, until he reaches the next zone.

- You doing ok? - Asks Wolf. - You look like... a bit burned.

- So funny... - Dallas rolls eyes. - But yeah, doing good. Let's win this! - And gives the baton to CC, that starts running with Wolf.

- Tell your genie to come here right now! - Shouts Jack. - We can't allow two country girls to defeat the two princes!

- Hm, Iris... - Elliot says. - Mind to come here?

Iris appears at his side.

- Was that a wish? - She asks.

- Oh, no! - He says. - Not a wish. Not a wish.

- Ooh... - She looks disappointed. - Then, what?

- The baton, dumbass! The baton! - Screams Jack, and slaps her.

- Woah. - Not only Iris herself is surprised, but also Elliot.

- What was that for? - He asks.

- She's annoying. Needs to be taught to respect her superiors. - He says.

- Dude, really? - Elliot asks. - To that point?

- Well, hello. - Says Iris. - I am the one who got hurt, I should be the one that's mad.

- You would better quit complaining and give us already the baton. - Says Jack. The look at Iris face is both scary and mad.

- Here. - She hands it to him, but it turns into a mousetrap, catching his fingers.

- OUCH! - He complains, as Iris hands Elliot the real one.

- Let's go! - He says, dragging Jack by his arm.

### **A peaceful meeting**

Marian is walking throught a stone way, with trees and grass around, carrying some books on her arms. She's wearing a her chosen blue dress, and has her long fair hair moving with the wind.

- Boo! - Bruno pops out from behind a tree, at her side, and she is scared by it, making a little jump, that causes her books to fall to the floor.

- Dumb! Ugly! - She `pushes him, softly, as she shouts out lame insults. He laughs, and grabs her arms, pushes himself to her, and they make out.

- Sorry, babe. - Bruno stops the kiss.

- Ugh, don't do that again! - She says, but laughing. - Now help me with the books.

- Marian. Take it eeeasy. - He says. - Nobody's going to steal them. Who wants university books afterall? - He uses his wand, and the books fly, and get to the top of the tree. - See? Now nobody'll find them! Come with me!

- Fine... - She agrees, as Bruno grabs her arm, and drags her running to the top of a green hill. Then, he drops her to the floor, and he drops himself next to her.

- See? - He asks. - This is a beautiful place you can't find in those books. And you're a beautiful girl I can't find in those books either. - She giggles. - Why did it took so long for you to come?

- Well, after this four months, I am sure you know Mrs. Goldenleaf... - She says. - She said I didn't turn the peacock into a pumping properly, as it still had some feathers. You know, those lesson of first turn the peacock into a pumpkin, then the pumpkin into a carriage.

- I actually don't. - He says, looking at the sky. - She has forbidden me to assist to her classes since I destroyed two tables three weeks ago... She said I am not Fairy Godparent material. She doubts I even have magic in me...

- How dare she? - Marian looks annoyed.

- Well, it's not like if I had shown any day my powers... - He says. - I usually just blow up everything, or even faint.

- That's not true. - She says. - Remember what you told me, two nights ago?

- Well... It's not something I am proud of... Not the kind of skill a fairy godfather should have... - He adds, skepticall.

- Oh, C'mon! - She says. - It's amazing! And if the others don't think so, worse for them. - She says, and turns to look at him, and they kiss again. Then, laughing, they roll down the cliff, and Marian ends at the top of Bruno. They laugh, and look at each other's eyes but then, a horrible groar is heard on the sky, scaring both.

- What...? - Starts asking him.

- It comes from the University! - She screams, as she rises from the ground.

- B-But what was that?! - He asks, getting up on her side.

Screams are heard from the distance.

- DRAGON!

### **Worth fighting for**

Richard and Erica are waiting on the begining of their leg. He's putting his hand on his hat, playing with his fingers, as she's scketching on a notebook with her a pen that she holds on her tentacles.

- Hey, how are you doing? - She asks, cheerfully.

- Fine. - He says, not wanting any conversation. She stares, but sees he doesn't want to talk.

- Hey, you! - Pinocchio appears, panting. - I need help!

- How can I help you? - Erica asks.

- Oh, not you. - Pinocchio points at Richard. - Him. You aren't even on my team.

- Well, you can try... - She says, and then, with a softer voice. - But he isn't exactly a talkative nice person...

- Indeed. - Richard softly pushes her backwards. - How can I help you, my woodden mate?

- We have to win this challenge. - He says. - And it won't be possible if Drowsy's on the final leg. - He pauses, and continues. - She's a good friend, but her sleeping issue can cost us this game. I've heard you have magic so... can you give me something that prevents her from falling asleep?

- First off, where have you heard that? - He asks, playing with his hat.

- I think Ruth warned all the team before, that you're "a dark magic influence that will lead us to a downfall"... - Pinocchio says, ashamed. - But I am not saying I agree!

- And second... - He follows. - If I do so, what would you give me?

- So, you can?

- I only can deppending on the price... - He says. - That will be...?

- Well, what's the solution, first? - He says.

- This certain potion. - He puts his hand inside his hat and, after moving it for a while, he takes a small glass bottle with blue liquid in it. - It's an obedience one. Make her drink that, tell her to not fall asleep, and done. It's effects last a couple of hours...

- And what do you think that is the rightful price for that? - He asks.

- Oh... - Richard starts. - How about... Two different orders from me. A service, one for each hour it takes.

- That's easy. - He says. - I accept.

- Perfect. Now, shake my hand. - He offers him his hand, and he does shake it, expecting an explosion or lights, or something to happen, but it all keep the same, normally.

- Oh. - He comments, as he gets the potion.

- Expecting something else? - He asks. - Just go and give it to Drowsy. - Pinocchio leaves. - Now, let's see what do the princes bring to the table...

- Oh, C'mon! - Jack looks at Elliot, that is unsure about entering in the giant wheel. - We're the superior kind! You don't have to be afraid!

- I'm not afraid... - He says. - Just not really sure about this.

- Let's go, dude! - He says. - And don't worry. I have taken that mousetrap out of my hand, and I have a sword! - He takes the sword out, and points at in front.

- Woah! That's dangerous, Jack! - Elliot says.

- Nonsense. There's absolutely no danger into entering in a constant moving place that is really unstable with a sharp object! - Jack says, smiling, and jumps in.

- Oh, finally! - Says Wolf, that is a bit far from him. - I was starting to worry about if the chickens were going to enter in here...

- Chicken?! - Jack looks raged. - Keep your words, whore!

- Oh my God! This is a totally new insult for me! I was never told this before, and it has destroyed my inner self love! Great one, Frog! Or should I say Prince? I don't know, his face could be both... - Says Wolf, with an evil grin.

- Wolf... - CC seems a bit uncomfortable.

- Oh, let her talk! - Jack screams. - Afterall, if she doesn't win, she'll have to go and die under a bridge, while I'll be able to live all my life without any kind of work!

The words seem to hurt Wolf more than any insult. She opens her mouth, but says no word. Then, she jumps on Jack, and both fall out of the wheel, to the mud.

- Oh Sweet Lord! - CC is scared.

- And the baton! - Elliot jumps to the mud, to go and search for the object Jack had with him. CC, instead, walks all her way, and jumps out of the wheel properly.

Jack lands hardly, getting easy covered with mud, and all his precious clothes taking a brown tone.

- My cloak! - He screams. - I'l make you pay for this!

- Hah! - Wolf appears to have also fell, but isn't that dirty as he is.

- Dude, where's the baton? - Elliot is searching in the mud.

- Well, thanks! - Erica takes the baton in her tentacles. - It's climbing time!

- Go fast! Let's win this! - CC hugs her, and cheers, as she surrounds the tree with her tentacles, on still holding the baton.

- Where's mine, gentleman? - Richard asks, looking at the guys in the mud.

- I am looking for it... - Elloit says, while moving in the mud.

- Someone help me! I can give you money! - Jack screams, as he is drowning down in it.

- Oh, quit the complaining! - Richard snaps his fingers, and Jack gets thrown to the sky, landing next to him. - Now, where's the baton?

- Found it! - Says Elliot, between Wolf's laughters.

- Perfect! - Richard snaps his fingers again, catching the flying baton this time.

- *Can you see the little piggies, playing in the dirt?* - Jack sings, half unconscious.

- Almost done! - Erica is climbing her way to the top.

- Oh, really? - Richard says, not aloud. He gets close to the tree, and takes a potion out from his hat. He pours it on the tree, and a sound gets out of it. - Stairs. - And with that word, the tree starts to change it's shape, making woodden stair appear on that side, making it easy for Richard to get to the top, as Erica also does, and CC looks, jaw dropping.

### **Fire without hell**

Bruno and Marian are running on the same rock way they were before, ignoring the books that still are at the top of the tree.

- Dragon? - Bruno asks. - I didn't know those things did exist!

- Oh, they do! - Marian says. - It's not the first time one of them attacks our city. They only look after destruction, and the chaos brings them pleasure, so I guess that destroying this place, that is the exact opposite of the chaos...

- I get it, it won't leave anyone alive. - Bruno says, panting. - What can we do, about it?

- About it? - She says. - Not even thirty experimented fairies can control those.

- So why are we running there? - He asks.

- Because maybe there are more than thirty fairies... - She says, hopelesly.

They arrive to the main hall of the university, where many fairies are watching from the distance. There's a hole on the roof, seen from the outside, with smoke getting out of it, and some groars are heard on the air. Mayor May is there, looking scared.

- What has happened? - Asks Marian.

- It has came out of sudden... - She says, with some dust marks on her face. - It isn't really big, so I guess it isn't even a year old, but it's still deadly... With huge teeth and claws... and also, fire...

- Anything we can do? - Bruno asks again, hoping for a better answer.

- Just trust that, after it has fun with the university, it will leave again.

- That's not a really good option... - He says.

- Someone, help! - Eloise, the other fairy in their class, bumps out of the front door, and falls in front of them. She has a red mark on her front. - Mrs. Goldenleaf is inside the building!

Bruno looks at it and, as a groar comes out of it, a female scream also does.

- Ok, fuck this, I am going inside! - He starts running.

- Wait! I forbid you do so! - Mayor May shouts. - I don't want another missing fairy, as Lergana!

- Who's Lergana? - Asks Bruno.

- She was on our class, until she mysteriouslly disappeared, and was never seen again. - Marian explains.

- That's not going to happen! - He shouts. - At least, now you'll know where I last was...

- Please, Bruno... - Mayor May begs.

- Someone has to help her... - Bruno says.

- But you just can't stand her! - Marian screams, about to cry.

- I want to be a fairy godparent! Fairy godparents help even people who they hate! It's their duty! - And he runs in, ignoring the screams.

Bruno runs throught halls, until he reaches the library, that has many shelves on fire. He enters, and witnesses the dragon burning one of them without any apparent reason. The creature is as big as the shelf, with a dark purple shiny skin, and black wings that end in huge claws. It also has a huge tail, that destroys other shelves on its way. Under one of those, there's Mrs. Goldenleaf, that has lost her wand and is trying to get out silently.She sees Bruno, and is surprised to see him, to the point she makes a soft squeak. The dragon turns, and notices her, and groars again.

- Hey, big pile of trash! - Bruno throws a book at the dragon, that is about to throw fire at the fairy, and that truns around, with his eyes in red. - Ok, now *this* wasn't a good idea.

Bruno runs with the dragon chasing him around, until it gets him to a corner. It breaths fire, and he falls to the ground, screaming. He takes out his wand, with fire all over his clothes.

- "Remember, something big can be reduced to something less big, but not to something uber small..." - One of Mrs. Goldleaf's lessons plays on his mind. He opens his eyes, ignoring the flames, and points at the dragon. - Into a horse... - And, with the wand pointing at it, the dragon starts reducing into a horse, that kicks him to the wall. With a mark on his face, he points at it again. - Into a turkey. - And the thing changes again, now into the bird that they mentioned, that attacks him with the pointy beak. - Ouch! Into a mouse! - And the turkey changes again, turning into a really small rat, that now doesn't even try an attack, and runs away. - Into a snail. - And, with an evil grin, he points the wand again, and the mouse turns into an animal in his first lesson. A tiny, slick snail.

- Bruno! - Mrs. Goldenleaf screams. - Help!

Bruno takes her out of the shelf, with her, panting, as students and teachers enter in the library, only to find the guy on fire helping the fairy.

- B-Bruno... - Says Mayor May.

- Where's the dragon? - Marian asks.

- There. - Mrs. Goldenleaf points at the snail. - This lad has saved me, only with magic.

- You...? - Mayor May starts.

- Yes. - He says. - Surprised?

Marian uses her wand, pouring a water spell on him, which lights off the fire. He spits water.

- Hey! What was that f...?  - But she jumps to his arms, and makes out with him.

- Woah... Damn teens... - Mrs. Goldenleaf doesn't seem so excited now. - She takes the snail, and puts it into a glass on the floor.

- Well... I think he's now ready to be an actual fairy godparent... - Mayor May says, as Marian and Bruno still are on their kiss.

### **Up, Down, and let's drink until I drown!**

- Here, take this. - Richard reaches the top, and throws it at Pinocchio and Nieves, that try to grab it at the same time, making it bounce until they finally catch it.

- Let's hit it, baby! - Pinocchio grabs the device, ready to jump, and offers a hand to Nieves.

- Sure. - She says, grabbing it. - Just promise you won't use the speed to.. well, touch me.

- I totally swear I won't! I didn't even think about it! - He says, as his nose grows, which causes Hansel to laugh, and Nieves to glare at him.

- Forget it, just go! - She holds to him, and pushes, as both scream.

- Here I am! - Erica finally drops herself on the top.

- Oh, just a matter of time! - Gretel scolds her. - You finally decided to honour us with your presence!

- Yeah, totally! - Hansel mimics her.

- Stop copying me! - She says.

- Stop copying me! - He says back, smiling as if he was doing world's evilest thing.

- Guys, please... - Erica says. - Take this, and go.

- Oh, right! - Gretel takes it, and starts running, grabbing the device.

- Oh, right! - Hansel follows her, and jumps, grabbing her legs.

- I said stop copying meeeeeeeeeeee! - She says, as they go down.

The scene shows Bruno and Drowsy waiting on the last leg.

- So... - He says, but sees she's asleep. - Right.

- Out below! - Nieves and Pinocchio crash next to them, as Drowsy falls to the ground.

- Ugh... - Nieves says. - You're a complete pervert.

- Hey, you should just watch my nose, while talking to me! - He says. - It never lies. - They wait. - See?

- Please... - Bruno says. - Could you just...?

- Sure. - Nieves says. - I overreact. Take it. - And gives it to him.

- Uh, our teammate is Drowsy, not him. - Pinocchio looks a bit confused.

Hansel and Gretel crash next to them, cutting what she was about to say.

- Here, take it! - Gretel gives it to him.

- Perfect. I was just distracting those two... - And he grabs the baton, and runs.

- Aaaargh! - Nieves facepalms, as Pinocchio grabs Drowsy.

- Look, girl, you're our last chance to win this. - He says.

- B-but... - She yawns. - How will I...?

- Drink this! - Pinocchio opens her mouth, and puts the drink inside, forcing her to drink.

- W-Whaat? - But she collapses to the ground and starts shaking.

- Hear me. - He says. - When you get up, you'll run like hell, straight, without stopping! - Drowsy's eyes start moving like crazy, and she screams. She starts running, as Pinocchio claps. - Yeah!

- I'll go and win this! - Bruno is running, with wand on hand, until he hears something comming close.

- YAAAAAARGH! - Drowsy advances him fast, leaving him so shocked that stops right there. Unfortunatelly, when she arrives to the finish line, she keep moving, and does cross the distance... BUT NOT ON THE LINE. Bruno does run, and crosses it next, as Pinocchio's jaw falls.

- Well... - Keith says. - We can totally say that the Ever After team wins this challenge!

Bruno is hugged by CC and Wolf, as the brothers cheer and Garrett claps. Dallas watches from the distance, and Erica is watching him instead, confused about why he seems to preffer being out of the group. On the other side, the other team members have walked off, as Pinocchio remains the same way, jaw opened, as Rick approaches to him.

- Well, I tried to warn you. - He says. - Magic isn't the most precise thing. See you soon, with those two services you owe me. - And leaves as finishing the sentence, after patting his back.

### **Rather than a Bye, this is a...**

- You're leaving, right? - Marian approaches Bruno, that is repairing hos torn clothes with magic, wearing a provisional school uniform.

- I have to, darling. - Bruno says.

- Please, d-don't. - She says, almost crying. - Don't go. Not now.

- Do you think I want to leave this place? That I want to leave you? It's far more complicated!

- Why? - She asks. - Why did you came here, in first place. The truth. I think you owe me that. Because having a father that was famous because of something he did, doesn't make you want to do exactly the same.

- Well, you said it. - He says. - I came to fix his mistakes.

- What did he do, that made him disappear? - She asks.

- I don't know exactly why did he flee. - He says. - But I know he quit any kind of magic because he was serving as my mother's fairy godfather. He fell in love with a human. And I am sure I won't make that mistake. I am already in love with a fairy.

- Oh, shut up! - She punches his arm softly, and kisses his cheek.

- Well, tomorrow, I am being sent to some kind of reality show, where I'll find a new job. - He tells to her, that hugs him. - Looks like Mayor May arranged that with the producers.

- Please, don't forget about me. - She says. - All the time you're deffending your father's name or working hard, remember I am still waiting for you here. And it may be cliché, but I always will.

- You know that being a fairy godfather doesn't prevent me of living my own life? - He says. - It will be hard, by I'll do my best. I have a reason to fight for.

- You're just trying to charm me so I don't see your departure with bad eyes. - She says.

- Looks like this isn't a charm I can do properly. - He says. - But don't think on this as a bye. It's better a see you later.

- There still are many evenings to share on a cliff... - She says. - And maybe more dragons to turn into snails!

- That's exactly how my girl thinks! - And he kisses her, as the screen turns black.

### **Everything's better with sparkles**

The scene shows the whole team of the Spicy Boom guys, sitting on a campfire ceremony, similar to TD's. Keith approaches them, and points at the dock, that is some metres down.

- Welcome to the first elimination ceremony. Sad to be the first ones to experiment it, huh? - He doesn't expect any answer. - I'll explain how this works. You'll vote on the confessional, writting the name of the contestant you desire to eliminate. After that, I'll count the votes in here, and give each of the safe contestants one of this acorns.

- An acorn? - Asks Jack. - You gotta be kidding me, give us something such as a piece of roasted boar or a couple of trouts...

- It's cheaper... - The host says. - And youc an roast it on the fire and eat it a bit toasted.

- Sure, thanks. - Elliot says, covering Jack's mouth.

- Then, once you've been eliminated, you walk down, to the dock, and get on the Canoe of Shame, where you can row your way away. You do no longer care to me or to anyone in here. Now, proceed to vote!

- I think that, for the good of the team, you should be the one going. - Elliot appears writting a name on a paper, in the confessional.

- Me and Drowsy accorded to vote for Jack. - Pinocchio says in the confessional. - He's so arrogant that I won't be the only one.

- I totally think that Pinocchio has to disappear. - Nieves says on the confessional. - I don't like being around perverts.

- Too easy. - Richard smiles, as a pen writes in a floating paper behind him, in the confessional too.

- Alright. You guys have voted, and we have our first eliminated here. I'll give the acorns to the save people. - Keith says. - Elliot, Nieves, Richard and Ruth, you guys all recieve one. - The four grab them. - Also Iris, that recieved no vote... - She turns into a full orchesrta of Iris, as the central gets one and the others play their instruemnts. - ... and Pinocchio, that recieved one vote. - He recieves the acorn, but throws it away. Guess wood doesn't eat what wood makes. - And a last one that will go to either Jack, the arrogant prince that believes that this place is all his... or Drowsy, the sleepy dwarf that probably got too much cafeine today. Well, the team has voted, and it was a 3-4 way votation... The eliminated is...

...

...

...

DROWSY!

- Three votes? - Jack raises from his seat. - Appart from the dwarf, who dared to vote for me?!

- Drowsy! - Pinocchio looks annoyed. - No! I am going to miss you!

- Whatever. - Drowsy said. - I was already tired of this.

- Well, lady, you know where the canoe is... - Keith points down, as Drowsy walks there, only to fall asleep again shortly after. Pinocchio takes her, puts her on the canoe, and pushes it away. The canoe's shade fades into the far river soon.

The contestants leave the campfire, as Keith does give the last acorn to Jack, that tosses it in the fire. Bruno is seen on a tree, looking at it, leaning his arms on his knees. Suddenly, a voice is heard.

- Bruno! - It is discovered to be CC. - I know what I want, right now! Something I guess you can do to me!

- Oh, really? - Bruno jumps from the tree, landing softly at her side. - Great! - He takes the wand out of her pocket. - And what is it?

- You said you could change people's memories? - She asks, as he nods. - Well, I want you to change the memories of everyone in here, and make them believe... That I am a princess!

Bruno is shocked by those words. He doesn't even try to tell her how wrong will it end. He does already know how she is. He moves his wand, and an explosion of blue sparkles happens, surrounding not only the two, but also the other parts of the woods, all the place. Nobody will remember that CC was always a regular peasant. Now, you'll all bow to your princess.