Apart from everything else, one thing that bothers me so much about the Winx Club reboot is how they take Riven's original arc in S1 and just give it to Damien but in a much simpler, inferior and honestly more problematic version.
Riven's writing in the later seasons is very worthy of criticism, I'm completely with that, but the early seasons did such a good and surprisingly nuanced job of showing how and why Riven betrayed his friends and started working for the Trix and how he got out of that and became a much better member of the team. Seeing them try to do something similar with Damien but just ignore everything that was so interesting in the original pisses me off. That starts with them just taking that entire arc from Riven and giving it to a random new male character nobody needed nor cares about. Why do the specialists get all of their original arcs taken away or reduced to such a shallow version of it that it might as well not be called an "arc" in the first place? What's the point? You'll just have a mass of superfluous characters staying around and not doing anyting!
Then Damien immediately gets the Freudian excuse of having a shitty, horrible father which serves to explain all of his bad behaviour as really only the influence of said shitty father while on his own he's really nice and sweet. And it does immediately get used by the Winx, primarily Flora, for why they keep insisting that he's a good person actually and they just need to convince him to ditch his father (who conveniently isn't even his real father, so no icky "evil" genetics either) for everything to be okay. The narrative completely ignores that they have no reason to believe this so strongly as they get barely any examples of Damien genuinely being a good person towards them - literally the only example is him being nice to animals - quite the contrary in fact as he's frequently unnecessarily rude and dismissive. Sounds like someone else we know, doesn't it?
Riven also has an explanation for his aggressive and dismissive behaviour in his original canon backstory - having been abandoned by his mother as a child and raising himself basically on his own - but it's never properly talked about in the series and therefore also not used as a get-out-of-jail-free card for his behaviour. Riven isn't a full-on antagonist at the beginning of S1, he's part of the specialists' team but he doesn't get along with any of them, refuses to really work in a team and frequently pisses off the Winx as well with his rude comments. That continues until the day of roses with a massive argument between Riven and the others and Riven's subsequent betrayal as he starts working and spying for the Trix. Depending on interpretation he was also spelled by the Trix here but even without that, the way the Trix isolate him from the others and use his own mistrust, lack of confidence and feelings of being underappreciated to manipulate him is fascinating. He's already isolated himself from the others all on his own and drove a wedge between them with his behaviour. The Trix reinforce that by putting him in a situation where he's convinced that Bloom sabotaged him, Bloom only has a contradictory explanation for her behaviour that makes no sense but still everyone else rather sides with her than with him. It's so wonderfully written because Riven's attitude and behaviour have put him in a position where he feels constantly undermined and dismissed, but he's also put the others in a position where they would have to go out of their way to put up with his behaviour to even try to get through to him which is not easy to do when someone is constantly antagonizing and insulting you. And that's where the Trix strike again because Darcy basically comes in and just tells Riven everything he wants to hear, how he's so much better than the others, how they don't understand him and how he's so much better off with the Trix. And Riven jumps at it because it's so much easier to believe that everything's the others' fault, not his, and here's someone who actually validates his perspective. It takes him until the 6-part finale of the season until he realizes that (1) the Trix try to take over the world which he didn't sign up for and (2) they only used, tricked and lied to him; he realizes the mistake he made, what he's done and reconsiders his behaviour.
For Damien, he only reconsiders since he has a convenient love interest in Flora who he doesn't want to hurt. Everyone else? Fair game. For Riven, he does all the work on his own. He doesn't need the others to give him chance after chance after chance after chance, it's on him to come to them and be like "Hey, I'm sorry, I was an ass, I'm trying to be better now and I'm actively doing good and helping you, can we start over?" Damien, meanwhile, already is excused by his tragic backstory and no matter what he actually does, all of his bad actions don't count because the characters, somehow, just know that he's really good deep down. In Riven's case, the others don't really notice how the Trix manipulate him and basically just treat it as him becoming even more of the ass he already was. I definitely think that they could've noticed more with how strange that entire scenario and Riven's sudden flip was, and how in danger he was from the Trix, but what I love about the way this is written is that it's so terribly human and understandable why they don't because, well, Riven was an asshole to them on so many occasions. It's not the farthest reach to assume he just became worse on his own, and that's why it's so good. And why the Trix' plan here is so good because the same would not have worked with Brandon or Sky or Timmy.
Instead of this nuanced interplay of Riven's personal issues, the Trix' manipulations and the Winx and Co's natural reaction to assholish behaviour, we get Damien's daddy issues and the characters treating it as a foregone conclusion that someone who is constantly mean and dismissive towards them is actually nice and good all along because the plot says so. How is that supposed to be a better message or a better story arc in any way?
Ranking Winx member’s Spotify wrapped by most accurate to least accurate because I’m bored
And yes, I know these came out like a month ago but I don’t have anything else to post so…
1. Stella
Stella would definitely listen to the top female pop stars ATM. I think she would listen to songs that are empowering, and she’d mostly listen to music while getting ready. I think I’d add maybe a Megan thee stallion song or even Somebody by latto. Somebody has a summer vibe that I think fits Stella, and Megan has a lot of self empowerment songs that Stella would like.
2. Aisha
I think Aisha would listen to energetic, danceable songs that she could choreograph to. I’d probably replace Anxiety with ExtraL or Alter Ego from Doechii’s discography, because those are more upbeat, and maybe I’d switch Chanel with Jump.
3. Flora
Yeah, this is pretty much who I think she’d listen too. I don’t think she’d focus a lot on trying to find music to listen too. Shed probably just have a huge playlist of viral indie songs she heard on the radio and Ariana songs from the eternal sunshine era. Sombr is crazy though, that should be replaced with Too Sweet by Hozier.
4. Tecna
Tecna doesnt seem like she’d care for the actual lyrics of a song, and I don’t think she’d even care for music that much to go out of her way to make a playlist. I think music to her is just background noise to fill in the silence, so she’d probably just enjoy songs with strong instrumentals or musa playing an instrument. She’s #4 cause I think these songs are songs with instrumentals that she’d like and listen to, but I don’t think she’d go like crazy for any sort of music genre.
5. Bloom
Alex Warren? Demi Lovato? Did they just spin a wheel? Bloom would listen to music that’s in a soundtrack of a 2000s coming of age show. Or she’d listen to music that her parents listen to as well. Bands like No Doubt and ABBA should be here. In fact, I don’t think she’d listen to any of these artists enough to be in her Spotify wrapped.
6. Musa
What is going on here? Why is the fairy of music listening to the hot 100? And why are there four pop songs and then a British rap song at the bottom? Addison Rae would probably get 10 streams out of musa, and it would not be for Headphones On. Same with Blackpink. She’d probably listen to kpop, but it’d be more of Yves, Bibi, Red velvet, Artms, maybe girls generation. And she’d probably listen to more R&B and hip hop songs instead of pop. As well as ballads. Musa would spend hours trying new music, listen to multiple different genres, I can’t imagine in any world that her TOP OF THE TOP songs would be the most popular pop songs on the radio.
I feel like some fans are racist. Especially to Flora. Nearly all of the fan art of other girls they are conventially pretty people. They are slender and have cute clothes. But when they draw Flora she either has fat huge legs or her whole body is fat in general. Not a little chubby but fat fat. She is way shorter than anyone else. Or they also draw her with so much body hair or her arms and legs while the others do not have it. I dislike it when Flora has one of these things let alone is she gets drawn with that all. Especially when the others are shown as conventially pretty people. Is it because Flora is brown? Does she have to be fat short and hairy because she is brown? I will say that I am a brown person myself and I hate it when people depict us as the ''ugly'' people of the group. And I feel like winx fans do that to Flora. In the show she is a conventially pretty person but some fans have the need to make her ''uglier'' compared to the rest of the girls. Again is it because she is brown? I don't know if they do it intentionally of subconsciously..
I don’t think people who do this are racist, but for sure ignorant. So many redesigns of winx club characters are based off of stereotypes of certain races.
Like Aisha being redesigned as extremely buff compared to the other girls.
Musa being drawn as the shortest and flattest, and her transformation redesigns always being reduced to just traditional Chinese wear (or even just East Asian traditional wear in general) when the other girls get regular sparkly clothes.
Flora being the curviest and biggest out of all the girls.
Stormy, the most aggressive out of the trix being redesigned as black.
Again, I don’t think people who use these things in their redesigns are racist, but it is shocking to see how intertwined people’s perception of races are with their art, subconsciously.
I was inspired by this comment by @idontk12 to post this scene because it's one of my favorites. Also the one of the first scenes I ever made for the AU. So it holds a very special place in my heart. I just love seeing the squad's relationships in action :,).
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The Squad gathered for their mid-point evaluation. They settled around the table as Silva took the lead. His gaze swept over them, and there was a hint of pride in his expression as he began the report.
"Overall, your progress as a team has been impressive," Silva started. "Your coordination has improved significantly, and your mission success rate is up by twenty percent. Each of you have made noticeable improvements individually as well."
He turned to Timmy first, displaying some data on a screen behind him. "Timmy, you've shown the most progress. Your tactical analysis and adaptability have become essential assets to this team."
Timmy's eyes widened, clearly caught off guard by the praise. "Thank you, sir," he replied, his voice quiet. Brandon grinned, reaching over to give Timmy a hearty pat on the back. "Told you all that work would pay off, Timmy!"
Timmy shot him a small, grateful smile, cheeks tinged pink from the embarrassment.
Silva shifted his gaze to Riven. "And Riven," he continued, "your growth in communication and teamwork is worth mentioning. It's made a difference."
Riven shrugged, folding his arms as if to brush off the praise. "I'm just doing what I need to," he muttered. But Sky leaned over with a nod of approval. "Nice work, Riven. It's been great seeing you step up."
Riven managed a small nod in return, though he still kept his arms crossed.
Silva then focused on Sky. "Sky, I know the position of captain comes with unique challenges, and I can tell you're still finding your footing. But that will improve with experience. My door is always open if you need advice."
Sky nodded appreciatively. "Thanks, Silva. I'll keep that in mind."
Finally, Silva turned to Brandon with a small grin. "Brandon, you're the team's ace, and you've proven your skill. But don't take on too much at once. You've got support here, use it."
Brandon gave a quick nod with a mock salute. "Got it, sir."
Silva surveyed them one last time, clearly pleased. "That concludes the mid-point evaluation. Sky, anything you'd like to add?"
Sky stood up, facing the team with a relaxed but confident smile. "I just want to say I'm proud of the work everyone's putting in. I know it's been tough, but seeing the progress we're making together means a lot." His gaze moved around the table, meeting each of theirs in turn.
"Now, looking ahead, our next mission will have a bump in difficulty," he added. "So don't even think about slacking off. We're only going to keep pushing from here."
Brandon let out a triumphant cheer, throwing his arms up. "Finally, something fun!"
"Yeah, it's been getting too easy," Riven agreed, leaning back with an almost grin.
Timmy hesitated for a moment, then nodded, summoning up his confidence. "I'm ready too."
Sky's smile grew. "Glad to hear it. That's all from me."
Silva stepped forward, giving a nod to the group. "You're all dismissed. Get some rest and recharge. Except for you, Riven. I need a word."
As everyone filed out, Brandon stretched, then threw his arms around Sky and Timmy, pulling them in close. "This is awesome," he said with a laugh. "Did you hear that? Silva didn't have anything negative to say this time. He didn't even mention that I accidentally hit that tree on our last mission."
"Uh, I think that he can still hear you." Sky said with a light chuckle.
"Even more reason to hurry up and get out of here then." The three of them left laughing as Riven stayed behind.
Silva gestured for Riven to follow him to his office. Riven trailed behind, hands stuffed in his pockets, masking any hint of nerves. Once inside, he motioned for Riven to sit and took his place behind the desk. His gaze steadied as his hands clasped beneath his chin.
Riven sat down, crossing his arms defiantly. He broke the silence first. "I already know what this is about," he muttered, trying to sound indifferent.
Silva arched an eyebrow, leaning forward. "I don't think you do," he replied, his voice low and firm. "If you did, you wouldn't be this calm. The stunt you pulled could jeopardize your scholarship, Riven. Do you understand that?"
Riven's fists clenched at his sides, and his gaze dropped. "Yes," he mumbled, the words barely audible.
Silva regarded him, assessing, before leaning back with a slight nod. "Given that you just got off probation, I'll handle it this time," he said, his tone softening.
Silva chuckled, folding his arms. "Don't underestimate me, Riven. This is what I'm here for." He leaned forward, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "It's about time you started acting your age. I was starting to think you'd never come to me for anything. But I'm glad I can do this for you."
Riven looked away, his expression slipping into annoyance to mask his relief. "You're a crazy old man, you know that?"
Silva's laughter softened, his expression turning thoughtful. "I'm just happy to see you're getting along with your team these days. I'm sure you had your reasons for what you did. I won't force you to explain if you don't want to."
For a moment, Riven's eyes flickered to him, and he muttered a low, almost embarrassed, "Thanks."
Silva raised a brow. "Sorry, didn't catch that?"
Riven scowled, crossing his arms again. "I said I got it. And I'm not saying it again."
Silva laughed. "Fair enough. But just remember, while I'll cover for you this time, don't pull a stunt like that again. Not just for your sake, but for the squad's too. They rely on you more than you might realize."
Riven hesitated, glancing away. "...Whatever." His gaze drifted around the room, landing on a small, framed photo on Silva's desk-a snapshot of the squad from their first mission. Brandon and Sky were in the center, beaming; Timmy stood shyly to the side; and Riven stood just behind them in the distance.
He groaned, nodding toward the photo. "What is that thing doing on your desk?"
Silva followed his gaze, picking up the frame and grinning. "Brandon sent this to me after your first mission together. Thought it was worth framing."
Riven's eye twitched as his irritation spiked. "Throw it away. Now."
"Throw it away?" Silva gave him a look of mock indignation. "Not a chance. This is one of my favorite pictures of you."
"I'm barely even in it..." Riven muttered, but Silva just laughed.
"That's exactly why I like it," Silva replied, his tone softening. "It's nice to see you being yourself with them. Even if you don't see it, they bring out the best in you."
Riven shifted, his gaze falling to the floor, unable to meet the warm look in Silva's eyes as he placed the photo back on his desk. After a beat, Riven huffed, standing abruptly. "Fine, keep the stupid picture. Can I go now?"
Silva nodded, a gentle smile lingering on his face. "Yes, you're free to go."
Riven gave a quick wave over his shoulder as he slipped out the door, leaving Silva to chuckle softly to himself, glancing back at the photo on his desk with a sense of pride.
Once Riven stepped out of Silva's office, he was surprised to find the squad waiting for him.
"Come on, we're going out," Brandon announced, his tone bright.
Riven crosses his arms, instantly skeptical. "For what?"
Brandon shrugged nonchalantly, "Do we need an excuse? But hey, mid-year evaluations went well, and you're off probation. That's enough reason to celebrate."
Riven sighed, starting to walk away. "I'm busy," he muttered.
Before he could go far, Brandon stepped in front of him with a softer look on his face. "Hey, I get that you like keeping to yourself," he said. "But... we'd miss you if you didn't come."
Riven glanced at Sky and Timmy, who nodded, looking just as hopeful. He sighed again, more resigned this time. "Fine. But no crowds, and it's not going to be like last time."
Brandon's grin widens. "It's just us this time. Promise."
The group set off to a train straight to downtown Magix. As they settled in, Brandon leaned back throwing an arm behind Sky. "Feels good to get out together and not have to complete a mission."
Timmy nods with a small smile. "I was looking forward to this."
Sky glanced over to Riven. "So, how'd it go with Silva?"
Riven shrugged, feigning indifference. "Nothing big. Just talked about the probation."
Sky smiled knowingly. "Glad to hear it."
Brandon led the way to a small bar tucked away from the main streets. It was still quiet this early in the evening, and they found a corner table with ease.
"We're doing shots to kick things off," Brandon declared, glancing around. "Everyone in?"
Sky held up a hand. "Only one for me."
Riven shrugged. "I could use one."
Brandon gives Timmy a questioning look, to which Timmy nods, "I'm in."
Brandon's face lit up as he went to order, leaving the others to talk.
Sky chuckled, turning to Riven. "You know, Brandon could outpace a Orc."
Timmy laughed at the mental image. "Knowing Brandon, he'd might actually try it."
Just then, Brandon returned, balancing a tray with several glasses. He handed them out, leaving two extra.
"Who are those for?" Riven asked, raising an eyebrow.
Brandon grins, pushing one towards him. "That'd be you. Sky and Timmy are out, so you're up, tough guy. Besides, didn't you just say you needed it?"
Riven rolls his eyes but picks up the extra glass, muttering, "Alright, whatever."
Brandon clinked his glass against the others. "On three. Together, or it doesn't count."
"That doesn't make any sense," Riven protested.
"Trust the process," Brandon said, shushing him. "One... two... three!"
The four clink their glasses and down the shots. Timmy's face scrunches as he feels the burn, wiping his mouth. Sky isn't much better, grimacing. "Never gonna get used to that."
Brandon slams his glass down with a grin. "Now that hit the spot."
Riven doesn't pause, reaching for his second glass. He lifts it in Brandon's direction. "Let's get this over with, pretty boy."
Brandon grins mischievously. "Link arms with me, then."
Riven scowls. "I didn't agree to that."
But Brandon's already looping his arm through Riven's, pulling their glasses close. "Stop complaining for once and just go with it."
Riven groaned but went along, knocking back the drink with him in one smooth motion. When he set his glass down, Brandon grinned, declaring, "Ritual complete."
Timmy raises an eyebrow. "Ritual?"
Brandon leans back, crossing his arms with satisfaction. "Yup. This'll bring us good luck."
Sky rolls his eyes. "You just wanted an excuse to drag us to a bar."
Brandon shakes his head, feigning indignation. "Not true! I make a wish every time, and they always come true."
Riven raises a brow, crossing his arms. "Oh yeah? Then what was your last wish?"
Brandon grins, turning to face Riven. "Actually, it was to share a drink with you."
Riven's eyes narrowed. "You really don't quit with the stupid jokes, do you?"
Brandon laughs, nudging him. "Swear on it. I wished to befriend you, and look, here we are, sharing a drink." Brandon lifts his empty glass as proof.
Riven scoffs, though his usual sharpness is softened. "Fine. Then what'd you wish for this time?"
Brandon winks. "Ah, can't say. Bad luck, remember?"
Sky laughed, leaning back in his chair. "Rituals side, it is pretty nice to just relax for once."
Timmy nods, clearly relieved, "Tell me about it. School's been brutal lately."
Sky groans in agreement. "Same here. Assignments are piling up.
Riven gives Sky a side-eye. "You're one to talk."
Sky looks at him, puzzled. "What's that supposed to mean?"
Riven smirks, "You're always hanging around with that spitfire these days. Surprised you even have time for work."
Brandon chimes in with a grin. "Oho, how's that going?"
Sky shifts a little, brushing it off. "It's... fine."
Brandon raises an eyebrow. "Just fine? C'mon, man, I know you better than that." He pauses, giving Sky a knowing smile. "But, alright, I'll drop it, for now." Turning his attention, he nudges Timmy. "What about you, Timmy?"
Timmy jumps, a bit startled. "Uh-what about me?"
Brandon leans an arm on Timmy's shoulder, a mischievous grin on his face. "You know exactly what I'm talking about."
Timmy turns red, looking away. "I'm... I'm working on it."
Brandon laughs, nudging him again. "Oh yeah? 'Working on it,' huh? What does that even mean?"
Timmy shrugs, still avoiding his gaze. "Just... figuring things out."
Brandon pats him on the back, a bit more gently. "Hey, no shame in that. Did you try using my advice, at least?"
Timmy gives him a horrified look, shaking his head. "There's no way I could do something like that."
Brandon chuckles, leaning in. "Hey, it's worked on plenty of people before."
Timmy sighs, frustration creeping into his voice. "Tecna's... different, alright? She's not like that. And maybe just... back off a little. I can handle it."
The slight shift in Timmy's tone makes Brandon pull back, eyebrows raised. "Whoa, man. You okay?"
Riven stretched his arms and let out a yawn. "I'm bored. Hey, blondie, wanna grab another drink?"
Sky looks over, surprised. "Uh... I was actually thinking of calling it a night for the drinks."
Riven kicked his foot under the table, glancing towards Timmy and Brandon. Sky catches on, nodding. "Actually... on second thought, I could go for one more."
Timmy sighs heavily, running a hand through his hair. "Look... I didn't mean to snap. It's just... you can be a lot sometimes, Brandon. It can get exhausting."
Brandon's smile fades, and he nods, genuinely surprised. "I didn't realize you felt that way. I'm sorry. I'll ease up."
Timmy shakes his head, studying his hands. "It's not just that. It's... more." He looks up at Brandon, his eyes serious. "You... you think I'm weak, don't you?"
Brandon's face falls, taken aback. "What? No, Timmy, that's not true."
Timmy held his gaze, his voice growing stronger. "Then why do you sneak out early in the mornings? Why'd you mess with the speed limiter on your bike? If you really thought I could handle things, you wouldn't be going behind my back."
Brandon's expression freezes, realization hitting him as he studied Timmy's angry gaze.
"Timmy, I fucked up. Yeah, I've been scouting ahead on missions, but it's not because I think you're weak."
Timmy's frustration raised, his voice shaking. "But you still didn't believe in me. We're supposed to be friends, right? We could've worked together. Instead you chose to go behind my back."
Brandon opened his mouth but didn't know what to say. He watched as a tear gathered in the corner of Timmy's eye. His frustration was finally spilling over. Timmy let out a choked laugh, weakly punching Brandon's chest before resting his head there, letting the tears fall. Brandon fell silent, just letting Timmy have his moment.
Then, when the timing felt right, he gently placed a hand on Timmy's shoulder. "Look at me," he said softly.
"I thought it could make things easier on you. Not because I thought you couldn't handle it." He swallowed, meeting Timmy's gaze. "I should've trusted you. We are friends, and I should've known you'd be strong enough to handle things on your own."
Timmy's eyes searched Brandon's face. "Then... why not just tell me that? Why'd you do it all alone?"
Brandon sighs, pulling Timmy into a tight hug. "Because I was scared, alright? I thought if I could take on a little more, then maybe you wouldn't have to struggle so much or get hurt. But that wasn't fair to you." He pauses, gathering his thoughts. "Honestly, I wish I had half your courage. There's no way I'd ever think you're weak."
They stay like that for a moment, Timmy slowly absorbing the words. When he finally looks up, his expression is softer. "Thanks... for telling me that."
Brandon smiles, loosening his grip. "You don't have to thank me."
Timmy shakes his head, looking down with a soft smile. "It means a lot... knowing how you really feel. I just hope we can... talk about things like this more."
"I'll tell you what. From now on, I won't make decisions for you. We'll tackle stuff together. Deal?" Brandon suggested.
Timmy nods, smiling faintly. "Deal."
Riven motioned to the bartender for another drink as his eyes briefly scanned the bar. Sky's gaze, however, was locked onto Brandon and Timmy. "Do you think they'll be alright?" he asked, concern creeping into his voice.
Riven took a sip of his drink, contemplating the scene. "Those two? It's on them to figure it out," he replied, his tone casual.
Sky nodded, but the worry didn't leave his expression."I just can't help but feel anxious about it."
Riven studied Sky for a moment, a knowing look crossing his face. "About them or about the spitfire?"
Sky jumped, caught off guard by Riven's directness. "What do you mean?"
Riven raised an eyebrow, taking another sip from his bottle. "Cut the bullshit. I might be a little drunk, but I'm not stupid."
Sky glanced down at his untouched drink, struggling to find the right words. Riven sighed, placing some money on the table to settle their tab. He stood up, ready to leave.
"Where are you going?" Sky asked, looking up.
"Getting some fresh air. It's stuffy in here," Riven replied nonchalantly.
"What about Brandon and Timmy?" Sky pressed.
Riven shrugged. "They'll be fine. Are you coming or not?"
Sky hesitated, looking back at Brandon and Timmy before nodding reluctantly and grabbing his bottle to follow Riven outside.
The two stood in silence for a moment. Sky stared out at the city while Riven leaned against the wall, sipping from his bottle.
"Look," Riven said bluntly, breaking the silence. "I'm not great at giving advice, but just say what you need to say so we can move on."
Sky looked at him, surprised that Riven had initiated the conversation. A light chuckle escaped him at the bizarre situation unfolding. He twisted the cap off his bottle, taking a long drink before gathering his thoughts.
"I don't think I can keep doing this anymore," he admitted, his voice quieter than before.
"And by 'this,' you mean the whole spying thing?" Riven clarified, eyebrow raised.
"Yeah," Sky sighed. "At first, it was manageable, but now it just feels wrong. I tried to tell her this morning, but she mentioned how stressed she was with school, and it just didn't feel like the right time."
"So you got too close, and now you don't know how to confess you've been spying?" Riven's bluntness cut through Sky's confusion, making it simpler to understand his predicament. With a sigh, Sky crouched down, taking another swig from his own bottle.
"Just tell her," Riven suggested casually.
"What if she hates me after?" Sky looked up. His expression was heavy with uncertainty.
Riven chuckled, surprised to see the usually composed prince so vulnerable. "She'll definitely be pissed, but if she can't forgive you, it's her loss. You'll have to tell her eventually, so no point worrying about it."
Though Riven's words stung, they also brought a strange sense of comfort-a mix of harsh reality and support. "I guess you're right," Sky conceded, though he secretly wished for an easier solution.
Riven observed Sky's deflation and decided to offer some encouragement. "That spitfire isn't the type to hold a grudge for long. You said you two were friends, right? Have a little faith."
Riven smirked, creating some distance as he stretched. "If that doesn't work, you can always say it was my idea. I can take the heat."
Sky chuckled lightly. "Somehow, I think that would make things worse."
"Done brooding? You're starting to look like me," Riven teased, nudging Sky lightly to lift his spirits.
Sky grinned and stood up, feeling surprisingly lighter. He playfully punched Riven's arm and finished his drink. "Brandon and Timmy were right. You're a pretty decent guy."
Riven reflexively choked on his drink. "What have those idiots been talking about?" He muttered, wiping his mouth. "Don't get used to it. I only tolerate you guys now."
Sky laughed, the earlier tension finally melting away. "I'll take that as a win."
Riven nodded towards the door. "Let's head back inside. I'm sure those two are done crying by now."
Sky chuckled, shaking his head in agreement. "Yeah, let's check on them."
As they re-entered the bar, the noise hit them like a wave. They scanned the crowd and quickly spotted Brandon sprawled out on the floor, while Timmy paced anxiously beside him with a look of panic etched on his face.
Sky raised an eyebrow at Riven before they moved toward the pair.
"Hey, what happened?" He called out.
Timmy ran a hand through his hair, visibly flustered. "Brandon said that punching him would help me release some of my anger. I told him no, but he kept insisting he wouldn't dodge it, so... I punched him. I didn't think it would knock him out!"
Riven erupted into laughter, the sound startling both Timmy and Sky. "You're kidding! You actually did it?"
Timmy frowned, crossing his arms defensively. "I thought he was joking!"
Riven shook his head, still chuckling as he stepped over to Brandon, nudging him with his foot. There was no response. "Man, he's really out cold. Nice work, Genuis."
"Riven!" Sky scolded, trying to suppress a smile. "This isn't the time for jokes. We need to get him out of here."
"Relax," Riven replied, grinning. "This is all the pretty boy's fault." He effortlessly slung one of Brandon's arms over his shoulder. "Are you two going to help or just stand there?"
Timmy and Sky exchanged glances before reluctantly picking up an arm and a leg, struggling a bit as they helped carry him out of the bar.
As they navigated the street, Riven's expression shifted, a mischievous glint settled in his eyes. "Wait, I have an idea."
Sky furrowed his brow. "What are you up to?"
"Gather around," Riven said, motioning them closer with a grin.
Confused but curious, Timmy and Sky leaned in. "What is it?" Timmy asked.
"Smile for the camera, pretty boy." Riven said, snapping a quick picture of the three of them, with a very unconscious Brandon in the center. A satisfied smirk spread across his face as he reviewed the shot.
Timmy frowned, glancing at the lifeless figure between them. "Is this really the best time for that?"
Riven waved a hand dismissively. "It's just his karma finally catching up with him."
Sky shot Riven a wry smile. "Remind me to never make drunk Riven angry." With that, the three of them hoisted Brandon back up and continued hauling him down the street.
Meanwhile, as Silva settled onto his couch, a chime on his watch broke the quiet, drawing his attention. He glanced down to see a picture of four boys-Riven grinning mischievously, Timmy startled by the flash, Sky squinting against the light, and Brandon blissfully unaware in the middle
Beneath the photo was a simple caption: "Throw away the picture."
Silva chuckled to himself, shaking his head. "What am I going to do with these boys."
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