Frank15's Winx Reviews: 2x07-2x09
May. 30th, 2026 07:07 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
spiderbraidsIn which Frank15 introduces us to Helia, and enjoys Tecna's starring role
The Dark Tower
...or Sky's Just Desserts
We start our little story today with the group of Stella, Layla, Bloom, Brandon, and Sky finally returning to Alfea, back from the UnderRealm, with Tecna, Flora, Musa, Livy, and Piff all outside, excited to greet them. Kiko, holding a little cutout picture of Bloom, also comes out of Bloom's room to come meet them. Tecna gets excited about being in close proximity to her pixie, Digit, but upon seeing Digit in person, she forgets all the logic stuff, and just smiles at Digit. Tune goes with Musa, complimenting Musa's hair. And Chatta goes to Flora, babbling on about Flora's lack of a boyfriend, and telling her that she'll get her one, then babbling on about their adventure in the UnderRealm. And Bloom's talking to Lockette and Glim, with Lockette wanting to see Bloom's room, and Bloom going off with the two to show them her room, with Kiko, trying desperately to get Bloom's attention, going ignored. Sky tries to tell Kiko that he needs to play it cool, but Kiko just shoos Sky away, and growls at him. Big growl for a bunny, anyway!
In the girls' room, the girls, minus Stella, are all playing around with their pixies, along with Livy, surfing around on an envelope, all while "I Want to Be Where the Girls Are" plays. Tecna and Digit are playing some racing video game together, obviously having a good ol' time. And Kiko, still holding a cutout photo of Bloom, is still very jealous, watching Bloom playing with Lockette like a little infant.
Cut to Miss Faragonda's office, with the six Winx girls. She tells them that Lockette and Chatta have been talking with her about Lord Darkar, and tells them it has to do with the destruction of Spheria, about the entire realm being annihilated in a single day, by a dark force stronger than any other, being the worst disaster in magical history. Bloom says they'd learned about it in school. I thought the destruction of Sparx was the worst disaster ever. I guess next season will have an even more devastating worst disaster ever? Faragonda says it was a result of a man named Ardulus going to the UnderRealm to obtain the shadowfire, but it was the shadowfire who took control of him. She says certain powers, like the shadowfire, are so strong, that they control those who try to control those powers. And the shadowfire--Lord Darkar, essentially--seeks only one thing: total control of the universe.
Musa: So what do the pixies have to do with all this?
Layla: They said he was trying to find out the location of their secret village, but I don't get why. I mean, what's there that a guy like that would want?
Stella: Yeah!
Faragonda: What's important now is that we protect the pixies and keep them from falling into Lord Darkar's hands again.
Tecna: Did you notice how she just sidestepped the question about the pixie village?
Go Tecna! Miss Faragonda continues that the pixies should stay at Alfea, since Darkar probably allowed the pixies to escape so he could follow them back to their village. She also says that Layla is in great danger too, since she knows the location of the pixie village. She finally demands that the Winx girls do not investigate the matter any further, that it's for their own good. Ah, cryptic Faragonda's back again. Seriously, though, I wonder why she's so cryptic in her advice most of the time. And saying that they can't investigate the matter any further... sure that'll work. Uh huh.
COMMERCIAL BREAK #1
Outside Alfea, there's a powerful storm. The pixies are slowly flying in the halls of Alfea, talking to each other.
Tune: Musa was telling me that Faragonda was bugging this morning. Anyone know what this means?
Chatta: Maybe it means she ate keekbugs for breakfast.
Digit: It's a modern slang word for acting strange.
Heh. Funny how Tecna's pixie, of all the pixies, would be the one to know slang. Intelligent or not, seems like she still may have something to offer Tecna, as far as understanding simple things like "bugging" and buckets. Lockette mentions the storm, that it's full of darkness, and it's scaring her. OUtside, in the forest, several magical creatures are working to find shelter from the storm, and a creepy cloaked man walks about. Also, we're shown a large, black obelisk.
The six Winx girls are walking down the halls of Alfea, with Stella stuffing her face with a large sandwich.
Stella: You know, I've gotta' tell ya', personally, I didn't find that Lord Darkar dude to be all that scary.
Tecna: What are you talking about?! Layla's the only one of us who's actually seen him.
Stella: Oh. Yeah.
Ah, Stella. You and your boasting. And not realizing that someone's told them that she and Bloom didn't actually see Darkar. Flora mentions how Miss Faragonda was giving off negative vibes with their discussion of Lord Darkar earlier. Tecna questions why she wouldn't talk about the pixie village. Layla, despite being friends with the pixies, has no idea what the big secret is. Livy fly-surfs to the girls, telling them that she has an important message from Faragonda, though she forgot what it was. She soon remembers she had it written down though, and tells the girls to meet Miss Faragonda at the lake, and to tell no one.
At the lack, in raincoats, they meet Miss Faragonda at the lake. She says that Wizgiz and Palladium are at two others in a couple other locations, with other students. Tecna analyzes the obelisk, and notes that it isn't even made of matter. Miss Faragonda is concerned that the obelisks may be depleting all of the magic in Alfea. Stella, Flora, and Musa transform to their winx forms, and all take turns attacking the obelisk, but their attacks do nothing, except remove all the attacker's winx, leaving them powerless. Tecna, Layla, and Bloom transform next, and again, their attacks also simply deplete their winx. except for Bloom, who, for some unknown reason, has plenty of winx to spare. Yeah, we know Bloom is the most powerful, but this is simply ridiculous. All five of the other girls were down after a single attack, yet it'll take Bloom seemingly hundreds of attacks before she becomes powerless later. She isn't that much more god-like than the other girls! Not Bloom's fault, mind you--and I'm not faulting Bloom here--but the writers should've thought it out a little more. The creepy cloaked figure, who looks like he's probably Avalon, watches the goings-on.
COMMERCIAL BREAK #2
The Winx girls, minus Bloom, are back in their room, all having taken a shower, with Flora still taking hers, singing to herself in the shower. So Flora and Tecna both sing in the shower. Flora's song is actually cute, and seems that she could actually sing pretty nicely. Even if the lyrics could use some improvment. Tecna and Stella go on about how they're exhausted, and can't believe Bloom's still out there trying to destroy the obelisk.
At Red Fountain, in Sky and Brandon's room, Sky's trying to call Bloom, without luck.
Sky: Something's not right. Bloom hasn't answered her phone all night, and we had a phone date three hours ago.
Brandon: Don't worry, dude. She's probably just out with some other guy.
Absolute most freakin' hilarious line ever! Just came right out of the blue on Brandon's part, but especially considering Sky's overreaction to Brandon's line, it's obviously completely true. Sky is so totally jealous! Serves him right, after the Diaspro incident! Sky says he's just worried that something bad might've happened to Bloom. Sure, Sky. Tell yourself that. We're sure you believe it, too.
Outside, still at the obelisk, Bloom is still attacking it on and on, until she finally runs out of winx, and faints.
The other five Winx girls are still inside their room, feeling better physically, though worried about Bloom. Stella's certainly good at taking her mind off such things, though!
Stella: Where are you going, Flora? It's your turn. Would you rather have to wear polka dots the rest of your life, or plaid?
Flora: I'd rather go out and look for Bloom.
Stella: Hello! Answer the question! Don't be afraid to commit to a choice! No one here will judge you. I mean, not too much, anyway.
So very Stella, not wanting to dwell on Bloom. And what better way to try to relax than talking about something silly and superficial! Tecna agrees with Flora, that they should go out and look for Bloom, but Musa says that Bloom wouldn't listen, anyway, that she's too hard-headed. The electricity goes off at Alfea, caused by the storm, despite the electricity at Alfea being run off magic. Soon, the creepy cloaked man carries into their room a limp Bloom.
In Miss Faragonda's office the next morning, with the six Winx girls, Faragonda explains that the storm last night was the work of a powerful wizard, who's standing beside her, still cloaked. After taking off his hood, Stella, Layla, and Bloom recognize him as the paladin hunk who saved them back in the UnderRealm.
Back at the obelisk at the lake, Miss Faragonda introduces to the six Winx girls, as well as to eleven other random students, the newest member of the Alfea faculty, Professor Avalon. All the girls find Professor Avalon to be dreamy. Avalon casts a spell that destroys the obelisk. Faragonda says that Avalon created the obelisks to observe the girls' powers in action.
Tecna: Um, I have a question, Miss Faragonda. What's the name of the class Professor Avalon is teaching, and how many students will be asmitten--I mean, admitted!
Tecna's adorable when she's awkward like that! She was starting to get way too comfortable around Timmy, what with her bedroom voice and whatnot. Miss Faragonda explains that it's a master workshop, and that only twenty students will be admitted. Though since only seventeen students seem to be present for this meeting, I guess that won't be much of a problem, will it? Though an eighteenth does come running up toward the rest, out of breath. Avalon warns that the class will be quite difficult, though that hardly deters any of the girls from wanting to sign up for his class. Tecna happily says how she's never gotten anything lower than an A- before. So I guess back in "Pushing the Envelope," when the girls said that Musa had the highest grade, that it had to have been only for that one class. I guess Musa had an A+ for the class. Amaryl, oddly sweetly, asks about what this "genial power" is. Guess Amaryl can be nice when she's crushing on a guy. Though honestly, I'd have figured her to more likely start getting cattier with all the other girls oogling Avalon. Avalon explains that genial power is the power that connects one with their family and origin so one can best understand and connect to their own magic. Bloom asks if she can still learn it even if she doesn't know her origins, to which Avalon says it'll be more difficult, but that yes, she can still learn it.
Later, in a creepy, isolated room, Miss Faragonda gives four new pixies four jewels, saying that the jewels must remain secret. Two of them are Athena and Discorda, pixies at Red Fountain and Cloud Tower, respectively. Another is the pixie of Alfea's library. And the fourth... not sure. But anyway, I'm lollygagging here, and since Faragonda explains this whole exposition better than I could, I'll just hand it over to her.
Faragonda: I believe Lord Darkar is someone who seeks to enter the realm of Realix, and his hunt for the Codex, which will allow him to enter the portal, is what led him to your village, but as you know, there is another way to enter Realix. Lord Darkar must never learn of this way.
Gives us more questions than answers, really. Like what is Realix? And when did Sparx become not the most important magical place in existence? And what's this Codex? Guess we'll find it all out in due time.
COMMERCIAL BREAK #3
Sky and Brandon, on their hoverbikes, are riding over to Alfea. Because Sky's jealous. Whether he'll admit it or not.
Brandon: Sky, what are we doing?
Sky: I just want to check on Bloom.
Brandon: So swing by tomorrow afternoon.
Sky: Well, I don't want her to know I'm checking up on her!
Brandon: So we're spying.
Sky: No, I--I just don't want to look obsessive!
Brandon: Right, right.
Quite funny dialogue there, especially with the way Sky says his lines. I guess he's just so used to two-timing his girls that he can't trust Bloom. Ha! Sky insists they climb up a tree to spy on her. 'Cause chicks just dig Peeping Toms.
Inside Alfea, the students are all holding a party to welcome Professor Avalon to Alfea. Look closely, and you can see Knut playing the role of the DJ. Guess Knut knows the music that the kids like nowadays. Hey, he's hip! Flora wants to know how Avalon will make the class selections, but he stops her to explain that he also used the obelisks to absorb their magic so he could analyze it. Bloom asks what her report says about her, but Stella says that it's supposed to be a party, so less school talk, and more partying. I can see Stella's point, too. I mean, in real life, who wants to talk about schoolwork at a party? Bloom later follows Avalon to his office, trying to get him to spill about what his report on her says about her, with him backing up, trying to say how it wouldn't be fair to the other students to reveal her results early.
All the while, Sky's still spying in the tree outside, and sees Bloom going after Avalon, alone, in a room in Alfea, and gets pretty darn mad. Jealous! Sky knocks down a branch in anger, which hits a couple of magi-beaves below, which chomp down on the tree, falling it, with Brandon and Sky falling with it.
Other Stuff
A fun episode. A cute episode. A mostly fluff episode without much going on, but not a bad episode, either. Cute little pixie moments. Nice fun with Stella, and Tecna, and heck, Sky the Jealous! Ha! No witches again, though... not sure how they'd have fit in, but with so many witch-less episodes this season, I'm feeling a bit deprived.
What'd'ya know? The only case of Musa using slang in the episode wasn't even heard! All we heard was Tune saying that Musa used the word "bugging." And far as I'm concerned, there's nothing wrong with that word, anyway!
I'm guessing Lockette to be the second youngest of the pixies, ahead of Piff. The way she was scared of the storm, and the way Bloom was playing with her as if she were a baby... I don't see Tune or Chatta letting their fairy friends play with them that same way.
And Zing... where was Zing, anyway? She was missing the entire episode! Seems odd that she'd have just been wandering around Alfea all by herself, not knowing anyone, but eh, what do I know?
7 out of 10 on the old scale.
Party Monster
...or Hot for Teacher
Outside the old, destroyed Red Fountain, the six Winx girls, wearing different casual outfits from usual, are talking amongst themselves and their pixies, with Professor Avalon walking with them, excited about the celebration of the opening of the new Red Fountain school. Stella's excited about the party after the opening ceremony. Musa and Layla are going to be in the halftime show at the party. Parties have halftime shows? Avalon says that he won't be able to sit with the girls, that he's been invited to sit with Codatorta, who's wanted to meet with Avalon since he's a champion dragon wrangler, and he heads off. Get over it, Bloom.
Outside the gates, Mirta is standing by a couple of other fairies. Yes, Mirta! Finally back! You remember her, right? Mirta, the sweet little witch from who didn't really fit in at Cloud Tower, and was transferring to Alfea for her sophomore year? And then, after seven episodes, there's been no sign of Mirta anywhere? Well, she still exists! She's there, right outside the old Red Fountain, with a couple of other fairies. Anyway, Lucy, along with two other much prettier witches, start to enter the gates, with Layla feeling that the witches could cause trouble, and Tecna irate that witches are trying to sneak in. But Digit checks the guest list, and Musa says that the witches were invited for their help with the battle against the Trix sisters last year. Even though the witches were all oddly absent for all the fighting... I'd still love to know where the heck they all were! Mirta, though, sure is excited to see Lucy again, and shouts to her, while looking like she wants to give her a nice big hug, but Lucy completely ignores Mirta, just walking on by as if Mirta didn't exist. Guess Lucy's still being mad and petty with Mirta, then. Sigh. It is interesting that Layla didn't seem threatened by Mirta, though, despite the two never having met before. I guess they probably met or something off screen. We'll go with that!
As the Winx girls all enter the old Red Fountain, three "mystery" girls come up to the gates: a casual blonde girl, a sophisticated nicely-dressed girl, and a girl in a Sailor Moon-like skirt. Pretty obvious that these are the Trix sisters! In cute little disguises! Stormy--the one in the sailor outfit--says they're from the realm of Dorkland. I have to wonder if such place exists... I mean, would Stormy call herself a fairy from Dorkland? Seems like they might've wanted to come up with another realm to fake being from. Darcy is fairy princess Fifi. Stormy is her stepsister Missy. No word on Icy's codename. As for why they're there, we don't know... yet.
The Winx girls are sitting with their fairies, outside, on the Red Fountain grounds. Chatta is bugging Flora about finding a boyfriend, as the Specialists come. Sky formally introduces himself to the Winx girls, and Stella makes fun of his introduction. Tune scolds Stella for making fun of the centuries-old tradition. I love Tune! A random specialist says hi to Stella, and she flirtily says hi back to him, and talks about how he, Pete, used to be her boyfriend. Brandon looks like he'll gag, but he gets back, saying that Pete's the one who told him that since her hair used to be so frizzy, they nicknamed her Friztella. Heh. Good, Brandon! Stella starts getting all defensive about her hair, having a good reason for it and all, but Brandon tells her to just relax, that they all had nicknames. Meanwhile, Bloom and Sky talking about how excited they are to see the redone Red Fountain.
The group of ten walk to the stadium of Red Fountain, and Sky asks about Bloom being busy lately. Bloom says she's been busy. She says she can fit in a magi-skating date, though, until she suddenly remembers she has to write a paper for Professor Avalon's class, and has to go find him right away to approve of her topic. Down, Bloom! Down!
At a set of stairs at the old Red Fountain, the Trix sisters, still in disguise, are waiting. Stormy just wants to destroy stuff. Darcy complains, tired of waiting for Lord Darkar to show up. Icy says they should wait, though. It's a little more than that, though... she almost sounds as if she could be crushing on him! And here I thought she didn't "believe" in love. Oh Icy, what's happened to you?
The six Winx girls and four Specialists find a good spot to watch the day's events from. The girls notice a new guy, just sitting there, drawing. They think he may be a new student, but Timmy and Brandon explain that he's Helia, Saladin's grandson, and an art student, but isn't training to be a hero, as he's a pacifist. Brandon goes over to Helia to introduce the girls to him. As Brandon introduces the girls, Stella interrupts to introduce herself, in typical Stella fashion, with particular interest in Helia's art. Tecna notices the paintbrush, paint, and paper he's using, and has a bit to comment on it:
Tecna: With all due respect, Helia, why are you painting with antiques?
Tecna doesn't have much appreciation for antiques, does she? Heh... well then, I guess she's lived in a place all her life where antiques have always been useless and unloved. Digit babbles on about digisketching, trying to convince Helia to change his art platform. You know, I really wonder sometimes if Chatta is the most... well, chatty. Digit sure seems to have her own spurts of non-stop talking, too! Stella looks through his art, and is impressed. But Flora's really impressed, and understands the meaning behind his art, which impresses Helia. Pretty obvious Flora's falling for him... Chatta and Amore both seem happy to see her falling in love.
Outside the old Red Fountain structure, Bloom rushes up some stairs, in search of Professor Avalon. Oh, come on already, Bloom! Leave the guy alone! She rushes right past the three Trix sisters, in disguise, all tired of waiting for Lord Darkar, when Bloom asks them if they know where Avalon is. They sigh in disgust, but as soon as they notice it's Bloom right behind them, they all look away quickly, with the cutest worried expressions. Interesting to note for later: Bloom did not seem to pick up on any of this. Lockette seemed suspicious, but Bloom? Perfectly oblivious. Icy, trying to disguise her voice, says they hadn't seen anyone, so Bloom heads off, continuing to search for Avalon. The Trix breathe a sigh of relief, not having been caught.
COMMERCIAL BREAK #1
Bloom rushes to her friends, already seated, having given up looking for Professor Avalon, since she didn't want to miss any of the ceremony. Stella reports that she got back just in time. In the middle of the open field, Codatorta, welcomes everyone, and thanks them for helping with the Witch Invasion of '05. '05? Err... shouldn't it be '04? Or not dated, period? Saladin starts glowing, causing an earthquake of sorts, causing the whole destroyed Red Fountain to fall below the ground, and in its place, arises a new, modern-looking floating structure, and Saladin goes on about how great the new school, and in particular, the new stadium will be.
The Trix sisters wait outside a few leftover ruins of Red Fountain, as their shadows on a leftover structure turns into Darkar's image. Lord Darkar complains that the witches weren't where they were supposed to be, but Icy complains that they don't wait more than ten minutes for anyone. I'm a little bit confused, though. Where they were waiting was destroyed, so it's not really their fault they couldn't wait there anyway... right? Or... blah. I'm thinking too much. Darkar says he should destroy them, but doesn't, since he likes their attitudes.
Outside the stadium, in an outside little recreational area, are Stella, Tecna, Flora, Bloom, Brandon, and Timmy. Flora hopes Helia is going to be at the party after the rest of the day's events. Brandon gets everyone up and ready to go back to the stadium, telling Bloom that Sky and Riven are fighting next, and Timmy will be in the parade after. All of them but Timmy and Tecna go right on inside. Tecna's playing some sort of holographic video game with digit, and says she'll be right there, as Timmy just looks at the two having fun, looking saddened.
Musa and Layla are walking around outside, with Piff on Layla's head, and Tune flying with Musa. It appears Musa's going to DJ at the party, and Layla shows off her tidewalk she's going to do when the music starts, and Musa starts giggling... but a passerby just seems to think they're being stupid, saying "gag me." It's Darcy in disguise! Kind of a big mistake for Darcy to make, there. You'd think she'd have been a little more careful. Layla wonders what her problem is, but Musa recognizes her voice and general "feeling" as being Darcy's, and chases after Darcy. Musa and Layla throw their soft drinks to the ground in their rush after Darcy, as Tune looks at the two, wondering what the heck has gotten into Musa, and just continues sipping her own tea. Tune's adorable! And it seems Musa's better at recognizing the witches than Bloom is, considering how Bloom wasn't the least bit suspicious when she ran into the three earlier, but here Musa is, picking up on Darcy's vibes almost immediately! Go Musa! So much more enjoyable when she's not crushed with all the outdated slang!
Tecna and Digit are still outside, playing their holographic video game, and Digit wins! The look of disgust on Tecna's face after losing, just priceless! Digit then starts drilling Tecna about Timmy, wanting her to go up to Timmy and talk, but Tecna says she feels uncomfortable around Timmy. Digit tries to get Tecna to show her the dream she had, and finally gets Tecna to comply, as long as Digit promises not to make fun of her. She puts on a pair of green cyber glasses of sorts, and Tecna appears in a green digital kingdom, along with Timmy. She starts getting flirty with Timmy, seemingly having him chase her, while she's laughing nonsensically. She says they were about to kiss right before she woke up. Well, I can understand the dream embarrassing Tecna: I mean, she was acting so very non-Tecna-like! But then, who ever said dreams were supposed to make sense, anyway? I guess poor Tecna doesn't understand why she'd behave so foolishly.
Tecna: So now do you understand why I've been so uncomfortable around him?
Digit: Would you start acting logically and go find him?
Meanwhile, Musa and Layla are still chasing after Darcy, while all the other people they pass just look confused. At least they all have an excuse this time to not get involved: I mean, from the outside, it probably just looks like a typical catfight of sorts. Musa and Layla run into Tecna, and tell her that they were chasing Darcy. For some reason, Tecna asks Digit to check the guest list. Um... why? Why the heck would they invite Darcy, or any of the Trix sisters? The girls who tried to take over the whole universe last year? I mean, come on, Tecna... logic's your strong suit! Tecna wonders if maybe it's just a younger sister, or maybe another girl who sounds just like her. Musa insists she's right, though, that it was definitely Darcy, and goes to look for the others to warn them.
In Shadowhaunt, Lord Darkar turns his pet bird Kerbog into a slimy gargoyle-like creature, to destroy the new Red Fountain, and everyone there.
COMMERCIAL BREAK #2
Inside Red Fountain's new stadium, Sky and Riven are fighting out in the field, where Riven sets off some sort of weak bomb on Sky. Bloom is worried, that Riven shouldn't be allowed to do it, but Musa says that it's extreme fighting they're doing. Digit says it officially became a sport three years ago. Out on the field, though, Sky defeats Riven. Bloom cheers, yelling "Good job, Sky!" Musa has an absolute look of disgust on her face, though, and is obviously annoyed with Bloom's not caring about Riven. Musa had to say nothing. Her expression alone conveyed it all. Poor Musa. I feel bad for her... she's really been a more enjoyable character this whole season. Riven complains that everything's easy for him, that everything falls into his lap. Sky yells back, that he knows that isn't true. Riven's heard enough, though, and walks out, obviously a sore loser, and obviously feeling bad about himself. As Bloom continues cheering, Musa says she hopes Riven is OK, but is interrupted by Stella, pointing out Brandon's being up next. So I guess Musa's probably a bit unnerved with Stella and Bloom now. Someone ought to talk to Musa, maybe?
As Brandon comes onto the field, to face the senior he'll be fighting, a large shadow covers the whole arena. The gargoyle-like creature Darkar created has arrived, and most of the stadium starts to flee for their lives, including a mis-colored Bloom--I guess Bloom had another sister after all--and the brunette witch we saw earlier. So I guess the witches can be trusted in events like this after all. At least sometimes. Of course, as everyone else is running for their lives, the six Winx girls and four Specialists stay to fight. I mean, with all the fairies, witches, and warriors around, how come the main ten are the only ones who are staying to risk their lives, here? I mean, everyone else can fight too, right? Err... right? The Winx girls transform to their winx forms, as usual before a big fight. Stella and Bloom shoot blasts at it, but it just absorbs the magic. Flora says it's a liodragerous, which was supposed to be extinct. Codatorta orders the Junior Brigade to get to the bleachers.
Stormy, still in disguise, watching from outside Red Fountain, figures it's time to finally lose the disguise she hates, and get inside Red Fountain to go after the Codex. Icy, elsewhere outside Red Fountain comes to the same conclusion.
In the stadium, Stella, Bloom, and Layla are still attacking the liodragerous, but can't seem to find a weak spot on the monster. Codatorta and three others are riding on dragons to attack the monster.
Outside, Timmy is trying to get everyone out in an orderly fashion, telling them all to form a single line. The most amazing thing is, while they're not forming a single line, they are all exiting in an orderly fashion! How they can get them all to leave without trampling on one another is simply amazing! A guy comes to give Timmy an important message for Codatorta, which Timmy decides is bad.
Back in the stadium, Codatorta gets Timmy's "red dragon alert." He alerts Saladin, and he says everyone could be in danger if they get the Codex, so they must go after the intruders immediately. Saladin says that Bloom and Sky and their cliques can take care of the monster themselves. Question is, why aren't any of the other students helping out? The two summon a ship of guards to help the two out with the intruders.
The Winx girls and Specialists are having trouble with the liodragerous, though. But right as it's about to eat Flora, Helia holds it back with some powerful strings. Flora's smitten, of course. Helia asks if Flora is OK, and when she says he is, he lets it go, to the other girls' disgust.
Bloom: Hey! Why did he let it go?!
Stella: That Helia's "some" pacifist; he fights to protect Flora, but no one else?!
Tecna: It's completely illogical. If you don't believe in fighting, don't fight at all!
Bloom seemed to be in shock that Helia would do such a thing: Stella and Tecna both seemed absolutely disgusted that he'd treat them with such disrespect. And they should: that was crappy of Helia. So, he doesn't care if anyone else gets killed, only Flora, because he has a crush on her, and not them. And the monster could've gone right back after Flora after he let it go, so it's not like she was really all that safe, anyway. So yeah... kind of a jerk. Helia, outside of the stadium, looks back and smiles, then walks away. Amore tell Stella how romantic Helia was being, though she didn't seem to agree. Sky pretty much by himself comes up with a plan to defeat the monster, with help from all the Winx girls and specialists. The archery guys shoot at the liodragerous to hold it down, while Sky and group take aim on it to defeat it.
COMMERCIAL BREAK #3
Inside Red Fountain, Codatorta is discussing with Saladin and the other warriors with him the strategy they'll be using to protect the Codex.
The Winx girls are worried, since the liodragerous is about to break free, though Flora holds it back some more using Ivy web to entangle the monster more. Tecna's found the dragon's point of vulnerability, and the Specialists go to attack it, though there's never any real indication as to exactly where the weak point was, or where they attacked the monster to force it to explode.
Inside Red Fountain, Codatorta says that the warriors can use any means necessary to slay the intruders if they find them. Icy's about to attack the warriors herself, but Lord Darkar insists that they retreat and return to Shadowhaunt. Icy tries to put up a fight, but she listens to Darkar, anyway.
Outside Red Fountain, back in the little recreational area, Avalon apologizes for not being there to take out the monster, saying he was taking a tour at the time, and that when he got back to the stadium, the fight was already over. Bloom says Avalon could've taken the monster out right away. Pull it together already, Bloom! Sky is sitting away from Bloom and Avalon, continuing being jealous. Meanwhile, a paper airplane flies by, landing into Flora's lap, sitting under another tree by herself. It's a drawing of Flora, for Flora, and she feels warmth, obviously having a crush on Helia, as he was obviously the one who sent the drawing over to Flora.
Back down in Shadowhaunt, Lord Darkar has a talk with the Trix sisters, wondering what they thought of the beast he created.
Icy: You're the man, LD, you rock my world, you really do.
Oh, Icy... come on! I mean... do you really have to have a crush on the ugly guy? I mean, you're Icy! You don't need no stinkin' love! Icy still wants to know why they couldn't take out the warriors. Darkar explains that it wouldn't be fun to destroy them when they most expect it, and besides, they already have one part of the Codex. Once they get the other three, they'll have complete control over the entire universe! And then a lame joke about Shadowhaunt becoming the haunt. Sigh.
Other Stuff
Enjoyable episode. We had Mirta back, even if just for a bit; we had the Trix sisters back, in cool disguises; we had good bits with Tecna, Musa, and Stella, and an interesting fight, if not revealing a certain someone's questionable crush on Flora.
Digit has snuck in as my favorite of the pixies, with her logical way of thinking, while still being "in" with some things, like understanding slang--even if she doesn't seem overly fond of it--and trying to convince Helia to change his way of doing art, thinking her way is better... just yay Digit!
And one of these days, how about seeing more Zing? Or any Zing at all? Poor girl still hasn't done a thing!
Helia didn't overly impress me. Saving Flora, then letting the monster go, not caring about any of the other girls? Tecna said it well: if he doesn't believe in fighting, he should've just stayed out. I mean, the monster could've easily went after Flora again, even!
9 out of 10 on the old scale.
The Angel of Doom
...or Tecna's Starring Role! Finally!
At night, Bloom is sleeping in her room, dreaming of her past, when she was a baby back on Sparx. We see her father, mother, and sister Daphne in shadows before her. Her Dad is giving her the Medallion of Protection, and names the child Bloom. Daphne notes baby Bloom crying, and Mom goes to pick up the baby, right as sleeping Bloom at Alfea wakes up, gasping. You could actually see Mom slightly before Bloom wakes up: not a lot, but you can see she shares the same hair color with her daughter. Bloom realizes those were her birth parents, and can't believe she remembers them. Understandable. It's not exactly every day that someone can recall such detail from back when they were an infant. Probably somewhat easier for a fairy, I'm betting. Bloom tries to fall back to sleep, crying.
The next morning, the six Winx girls, as well as all the students at Alfea, are having breakfast. Stella complains about not having enough food, that she's a growing girl, and needs it. Tecna says they've all finished growing, and the food provided was enough, but Digit corrects Tecna, saying that 58% of them still have a couple more years of growing left. Stella complains that Tecna should listen to Digit, and Tecna, begrudgedly, hands her food over to Stella. Stella isn't able to grab the apple on the plate, though, and when she tries picking it up again, it starts multiplying. Stella's furious that she can't seem to get ahold of any apples.
Amaryl: Isn't it obvious, Stella? Someone thinks you've grown enough.
Guess her little nice act for Professor Avalon was just to impress teacher. Amaryl's back to her old obnoxious self again, though I do wonder why she's sitting right next to her mortal nemesis, in the first place. Wizgiz pops up behind the girls, saying that he used his magical multiplier on the apple, giving the illusion of there being a lot of apples, despite none being there. There're still real cookies on the plate, though, and Stella shoves her face right into the plate! Right into the plate! I'm sure her parents would go "My word!" and faint if they saw Stella's atrocious table manners! Being eternally hungry is one thing, but the next thing you know, she's going to be burping for all her friends! Stella still has a lot of crumbs on her face when she finishes, and doesn't seem to be in any hurry to clean herself up. As she's complaining that it wasn't enough food, Professor Avalon magically provides all the girls with flowers. Avalon goes up to Bloom, telling her that he thinks he knows how he can help Bloom find out about her origins, and to see him later about it. After he leaves, Stella glows about how he's going to teach her a fashion spell, and Musa about how he's going to help her add an octave to her singing range. Tecna doesn't trust him, though. Stella says she's just jealous that he hasn't helped her, but Stella just thinks Tecna's jealous that he hasn't tried to help her. Reasonable assumption, mind you, but that's... not really it in this case. Tecna's just being her usual logically-thinking Tecna self. Digit agrees with Tecna's observations.
Outside, Tecna and Layla are carrying books, walking alongside Miss Faragonda. Professor Avalon finds Faragonda, and tells her that he knows of a way to increase Alfea's magic ranking. Faragonda gushes even, saying how Avalon's a dream come true. Tecna gives an evil glare, not noticed by anyone.
In Professor Avalon's class, it seems all the girls had given Avalon a bouquet of flowers. Flora tells him how much he deserves it. Avalon tells her that the only reward he wants is to see his students blossom. Tecna rolls her eyes at that. I mean, let's face it: even if he really is a nice guy, his response to Flora was just schmaltzy. Avalon goes on to explain that they'll blossom as they start to understand more to the true nature of their powers, that all the students have parts of themselves that they understand, and parts that they don't understand, but he'll help them find out about themselves, but they'll have to trust him completely.
In Tecna's room, she's on her computer, and Digit is inside the computer. Digit finds a book online that might explain who Avalon is. It's in some obscure language, but Digit says she'll be able to have it translated. In the book, an old guy warns to beware of a winged creature who will pretend to be a friend, and will promise the world if only complete trust is given to him, but when the three planets of the Triad planetary system align, the paladin will become an evil monster, and destroy all. Tecna notes that the realm of Frost is being shown, being destroyed, the same realm Avalon talked about earlier that day.
Tecna: Looks like we've figured out what Professor "Trust Me" Avalon is all about!
COMMERCIAL BREAK #1
In the library, Tecna finds a restricted book, and casts a spell to open it. When she does, she sees the same old guy on the cover that she saw in her computer search. She notes a paladin in the book with retractable wings, just like Avalon's. He isolates the strongest, gain their trust by promising to grant their deepest desire. When the three planets align, he'll absorb their power. Digit and Tecna aren't sure when the three planets will align, but they're both worried.
Digit is searching the quad outside Alfea, and Tecna's searching the hallways. Digit spots Avalon outside, but at the same moment, Tecna sees him walking down the hall, even smiling at her. Tecna lets out an awkward giggle. Tecna yells for Lockette's help, rushing past, saying that Bloom might be in trouble. And for some reason, Lockette is wearing different clothing than usual. Seems Chatta gave her the new outfit in a deleted scene to cheer her up. Not nearly as cute an outfit, though. They rush to a closed door, and peeking through the keyhole, see Bloom inside with Avalon. Tecna is worried that Avalon is already taking control of Bloom with his crystal, but he's just using it to show Bloom her family tree, showing her birth Dad as Oritel and her birth Mom as Miriam, as well as all her ancestors. We can't read any of the other names, though, aside from Bloom's name and Daphne's. And Daphne is definitely Bloom's only sibling, as shown on the family tree Lockette says that he's only helping Bloom, but Tecna insists that he's only trying to gain her trust to take advantage of her trust later.
The other four Winx girls are hanging out in the hallway.
Stella: The fashion spell he showed me was a complete dud: it mixed plaid with stripes!
Heh... so I guess Stella's not as impressed with Avalon as she once was. But then, maybe Avalon just has strange taste in clothing. Flora says she probably got the spell wrong. Stella wouldn't have appreciated that, but before she could say anything, Professor Palladium bumped into the girls in the hallway. The girls are surprised to see him, since he looks stronger and more debonair than he did last year. He says the hot springs in the realm of Buff, and a potion Wizgiz gave to him led to his transformation.
In Professor Palladium's class, he announces he's teaching advanced magical spells. Bloom whispers to Musa how Palladium seems to have changed since last year.
Cue the flashback! Tecna sure is having fun in the flashback, sitting on top her desk, throwing a paper airplane, which is seen flying around throughout the flashback. Stella wants to try too... just not with a paper airplane....
Stella: Let's see how aerodynamic our textbook is!
Not the brightest idea in the world, but again, she didn't seem to care as much earlier last season, anyway. In fact, the entire class is shown being very rowdy, with the exception of Flora, who looks kinda' pissed that everyone else is being so loud. Yeah, of course Flora would be the one who's being Miss Goody Two-Shoes... nice to see it isn't Bloom this time! There is someone else in the class who looks kinda' like Flora, though, but with different clothing. Is there any other student who bears a decent resemblance to Flora? Palladium is trying to settle the entire class down, looking like his old wimpy self. He isn't really succeeding, and gets hit in the face with a flying textbook, proving that textbooks are not particularly aerodynamic. Considering Stella was probably on thin ice after her expulsion last year, she probably could've gotten in pretty serious trouble there, too.
Out of flashback mode, Palladium tells the students that he'll be teaching them a spell today to reveal the true nature of an enemy. Tecna sneers to herself.
In the assembly room, the girls are all seated in the bleachers. On the floor, Palladium demonstrates the sphere of truth, a sphere that has the power to show the true nature of one's opponent. Stella jumps up with glee, wanting to try it, but Palladium warns that if she isn't careful, she could wind up spilling her own secrets. Stella then hurriedly volunteers Amaryl to go ahead and demonstrate, and Amaryl's obviously not pleased with Stella's volunteering her. On the floor, Palladium instructs Amaryl to concentrate completely, to empty her thoughts, and focus only on the sphere itself. She's doing well, and actually seems pretty happy, able to control it so easily. Not evil-happy, but genuine happy-happy. Palladium instructs her to aim for the targets, away from all the students, and tells her to be careful, that she wouldn't want to misfire the orb. But Amaryl, with the sudden look of a Trix sister on her face, turns around and aims the orb squarely for Stella! Palladium casts a spell to stop it right before hitting Stella; Stella looks as if she's about to faint. Palladium, furious, yells at Amaryl for trying to harm Stella, essentially, and gives her detention for a week.
Outside Alfea, Livy is air-surfing on her message toward the school, laughing all the way. Livy temporarily forgets what she was supposed to be doing with the message, but quickly remembers that she's supposed to be delivering it to Tecna.
The five Winx girls, minus Bloom, are sitting together in Alfea's library, along with all the pixies, including Lockette. Tecna explains to the girls the evidence she has that Avalon is most likely the Angel of Doom. The others try to think if they can somehow stop him, including Zing. Including ZING! Zing has finally done something! Horray for Zing! Tecna says they need to figure out how long they have before the three planets align, but Livy thinks she knows: she has a message for Tecna about the witches' celestial celebration, probably about those very planets! Tecna says she'll go to Cloud Tower to talk with Miss Griffin there.
Timmy drives Tecna to Cloud Tower on his hoverbike. Don't worry... Timmy doesn't do anything annoying, and Tecna's not even flirting! He's just there for a logical, practical purpose--bringing Tecna to Cloud Tower. Just business. No funny business. Tecna carries Digit and Zing with her, and Livy's air-surfing along with them.
Back outside Alfea, Avalon is holding his class. Avalon is ready to have his students practice what they've been learning, and asks for his first "victim." Bloom wants to go first. The other Winx girls, minus Tecna obviously, shout "NO!" but Bloom ignores them. Bloom doesn't appreciate Stella trying to physically hold her back. Musa tells the other girls to keep an eye on Avalon. Unimportant in the grand scheme of things, but Amaryl looks as if she couldn't believe that Stella wanted to hold Bloom back. Probably filing this stuff away for later revenge use.
At Cloud Tower, Miss Griffin tells Tecna, Timmy, Digit, Zing, and Livy that the witches are celebrating the alignment of the Triad planetary system tonight, and that it always brings marvelous catastophies, but some take the celebration too far, and Griffin fears that Avalon is going to do just that with Bloom. Yay, Miss Griffin! Nice to finally see her pop up this season. Digit says they'd better hurry back to Alfea.
COMMERCIAL BREAK #2
Back at Avalon's outdoor class, Bloom and random-student Selene are charging each other with swords. Selene has an old, steel sword, and Bloom has a holosword like the Red Fountain guys use. Selene completely breaks Bloom's sword with hers. Bloom looks like she's just seen a ghost. Avalon says that Bloom needs to learn to trust her instincts, that she was originally going to take the old sword, but then went with the pretty one, and says that the old steel sword is much more suitable for battle. I feel kinda' bad for Selene, though: she's getting completely ignored by Avalon. No "You were wise to choose the steel sword" or anything, just "Bloom this," and "Bloom that." Also, during his little pep talk with Bloom, we get a close-up shot of Flora giving one of the weirdest glares ever. So very, very out of place.
Back in Bloom's second dormroom... err, I mean Avalon's office, Bloom is lying on a couch, and Avalon has crystals floating around her which will transport her through a magical time continuum.
Back outside, Tecna rushes up to the rest of the Winx girls, telling them that Bloom is in terrible danger.
And inside the office again, Bloom's having a vision of when she was a baby again, and sees dark, blurry visions of her parents and Daphne. She almost immediately "wakes up," startled. Bloom tells Avalon that her Mother was singing to her. Avalon tells Bloom that she's doing well.
Back at Cloud Tower, Miss Griffin tells Digit, Livy, and Zing that if Avalon is indeed the Angel of Doom, then they've only got a few minutes before he changes. The three fly back to Alfea, with Zing wearing a red suit. Zing's playful like that. Wish I knew who she was meant to be dressed as.
In Layla's room, Francis is asleep, holding Piff, also asleep. Yes! Francis! We've finally got a look at Layla's roommate at Alfea! True, she isn't really doing anything in this episode, but boy, can't wait for when she does! The five Winx girls and all the pixies are discussion a plan of action. They're going to put a containment spell on the building so Avalon can't escape. Tecna says they've got four minutes before he transforms, and that's when they need to hit. Zing, descending from the ceiling via strings, in a Mission Impossible sort of way, excited about the mission, asking where she'll be needed, but Layla, grabbing the strings, and with Zing struggling to get away, says that the mission is too dangerous for the pixies, so they need to stay behind. Poor Zing. So eager and energetic, so wanting to be the comedienne of the group, and so neglected until this episode, and ol' Layla's not even going to let her have any fun.
The five Winx girls rush to Avalon's room, but no one's there. Turns out Avalon was just relaxing in a sauna in his bathroom, though, and quickly comes out fully dressed. Guys dress fast, keep in mind. The five Winx girls all transform to their Winx forms, intending to attack Avalon. Tecna flat-out accuses Avalon of being the Angel of Doom. Avalon sprouts out his wings and flies away, as the fairies clumsily crash into one another trying to get to him. The girls corner him by a window, which thanks to the containment spell, he can't escape from. Avalon insists he's not the Angel of Doom. Tecna performs the sphere of truth taught by Palladium to use on Avalon to blast him. Flora is no longer so sure that Avalon is the Angel of Doom, that he should've transformed by now if he was, but it's too late: Tecna has gone and fired away, leaving Avalon burnt out, and the window demolished.
COMMERCIAL BREAK #3
The five Winx girls, minus Bloom, are in Miss Faragonda's office, along with Griselda, Palladium, Wizgiz, and Avalon. Tecna tries to explain herself, that Avalon is evil, and explains her reasons as to what he's done and who he is. Avalon says that there are over 10,000 other paladins with wings just like his. Wizgiz explains that his magical multiplier allowed it to appear that Avalon was in multiple places at once, and shows it by making copies of Faragonda.
Stella: More than one headmistress? Eww, what a nightmare!
The Winx girls all apologize for accusing Avalon of being the Angel of Doom, except Tecna, who still doesn't understand the whole thing, since logic told her that Professor Avalon was evil. She ultimately apologizes along with the others. Though in all honesty, I wonder just how sorry Tecna is. I have this feeling that she's not about to let go of the idea of Avalon being evil. Deep down, she likely still feels she is right. Heck, I still question it, myself!
At the quad outside Alfea, Bloom lies in the grass, holding her Medallion of Protection above her, and sighs.
Other Stuff
Excellent episode! It had... well, it had what some of us have been dying for: a starring role for Tecna! And what a great way to remind all the little kids who dislike Tecna that, hey, she can be really interesting if focused on for a chance!
First of all, Tecna really, truly got the spotlight in the episode, and it only took 35 episodes to remember her existance! And shone she did! Coming to her logical conclusions as to why Professor Avalon couldn't be trusted, and her conclusions were making sense. And heck, she probably still believes she is right! And she may just be right!
After all that, I'm not entirely convinced that Avalon is necessarily as innocent as he seems. He may not be the Angel of Death described in that book, but that doesn't exactly mean he's Mr. Innocent, either. Tecna, keep a close eye on him.
Even though Timmy was in the episode, his role was extremely minimal, and Tecna wasn't gushing over him in the least. Thank goodness!
It was Tecna's show, but Stella still had an enjoyable role in the episode, herself! Like she usually does... we saw her little rivalry with Amaryl, and her odd eating habits again, and her not convincing Bloom not to volunteer in Avalon's class... good ol' Stella, as usual.
Amaryl is a little wench. We knew this already, but it seems she harbors a particular dislike for Stella. It's almost like Mandy Vs. Clover, except for the spies, neither of them is really that nice. I like Amaryl, anyway. Or I like hating her. Something like that.
We've finally got a decent look at Zing... she actually did stuff in today's show! She likes adventure, and she likes being silly. Can't say she's my favorite pixie at the moment, but she could easily dethrone Digit.
And Francis! We finally got to see Layla's roommate Francis in this episode! True, all she was doing was sleeping, but she's gotta' be a sweet person... I mean, Piff saw it fit to sleep in her arm!
Hmm... oh yeah! Bloom learned a bit about her birth parents. This is OK, as it's not being shoved in our face, the "Ooh, I don't know anything about where I'm from or who I am, yada yada yada" Bloom we saw so much of last season.
10 out of 10 on the old scale.
The Dark Tower
...or Sky's Just Desserts
We start our little story today with the group of Stella, Layla, Bloom, Brandon, and Sky finally returning to Alfea, back from the UnderRealm, with Tecna, Flora, Musa, Livy, and Piff all outside, excited to greet them. Kiko, holding a little cutout picture of Bloom, also comes out of Bloom's room to come meet them. Tecna gets excited about being in close proximity to her pixie, Digit, but upon seeing Digit in person, she forgets all the logic stuff, and just smiles at Digit. Tune goes with Musa, complimenting Musa's hair. And Chatta goes to Flora, babbling on about Flora's lack of a boyfriend, and telling her that she'll get her one, then babbling on about their adventure in the UnderRealm. And Bloom's talking to Lockette and Glim, with Lockette wanting to see Bloom's room, and Bloom going off with the two to show them her room, with Kiko, trying desperately to get Bloom's attention, going ignored. Sky tries to tell Kiko that he needs to play it cool, but Kiko just shoos Sky away, and growls at him. Big growl for a bunny, anyway!
In the girls' room, the girls, minus Stella, are all playing around with their pixies, along with Livy, surfing around on an envelope, all while "I Want to Be Where the Girls Are" plays. Tecna and Digit are playing some racing video game together, obviously having a good ol' time. And Kiko, still holding a cutout photo of Bloom, is still very jealous, watching Bloom playing with Lockette like a little infant.
Cut to Miss Faragonda's office, with the six Winx girls. She tells them that Lockette and Chatta have been talking with her about Lord Darkar, and tells them it has to do with the destruction of Spheria, about the entire realm being annihilated in a single day, by a dark force stronger than any other, being the worst disaster in magical history. Bloom says they'd learned about it in school. I thought the destruction of Sparx was the worst disaster ever. I guess next season will have an even more devastating worst disaster ever? Faragonda says it was a result of a man named Ardulus going to the UnderRealm to obtain the shadowfire, but it was the shadowfire who took control of him. She says certain powers, like the shadowfire, are so strong, that they control those who try to control those powers. And the shadowfire--Lord Darkar, essentially--seeks only one thing: total control of the universe.
Musa: So what do the pixies have to do with all this?
Layla: They said he was trying to find out the location of their secret village, but I don't get why. I mean, what's there that a guy like that would want?
Stella: Yeah!
Faragonda: What's important now is that we protect the pixies and keep them from falling into Lord Darkar's hands again.
Tecna: Did you notice how she just sidestepped the question about the pixie village?
Go Tecna! Miss Faragonda continues that the pixies should stay at Alfea, since Darkar probably allowed the pixies to escape so he could follow them back to their village. She also says that Layla is in great danger too, since she knows the location of the pixie village. She finally demands that the Winx girls do not investigate the matter any further, that it's for their own good. Ah, cryptic Faragonda's back again. Seriously, though, I wonder why she's so cryptic in her advice most of the time. And saying that they can't investigate the matter any further... sure that'll work. Uh huh.
COMMERCIAL BREAK #1
Outside Alfea, there's a powerful storm. The pixies are slowly flying in the halls of Alfea, talking to each other.
Tune: Musa was telling me that Faragonda was bugging this morning. Anyone know what this means?
Chatta: Maybe it means she ate keekbugs for breakfast.
Digit: It's a modern slang word for acting strange.
Heh. Funny how Tecna's pixie, of all the pixies, would be the one to know slang. Intelligent or not, seems like she still may have something to offer Tecna, as far as understanding simple things like "bugging" and buckets. Lockette mentions the storm, that it's full of darkness, and it's scaring her. OUtside, in the forest, several magical creatures are working to find shelter from the storm, and a creepy cloaked man walks about. Also, we're shown a large, black obelisk.
The six Winx girls are walking down the halls of Alfea, with Stella stuffing her face with a large sandwich.
Stella: You know, I've gotta' tell ya', personally, I didn't find that Lord Darkar dude to be all that scary.
Tecna: What are you talking about?! Layla's the only one of us who's actually seen him.
Stella: Oh. Yeah.
Ah, Stella. You and your boasting. And not realizing that someone's told them that she and Bloom didn't actually see Darkar. Flora mentions how Miss Faragonda was giving off negative vibes with their discussion of Lord Darkar earlier. Tecna questions why she wouldn't talk about the pixie village. Layla, despite being friends with the pixies, has no idea what the big secret is. Livy fly-surfs to the girls, telling them that she has an important message from Faragonda, though she forgot what it was. She soon remembers she had it written down though, and tells the girls to meet Miss Faragonda at the lake, and to tell no one.
At the lack, in raincoats, they meet Miss Faragonda at the lake. She says that Wizgiz and Palladium are at two others in a couple other locations, with other students. Tecna analyzes the obelisk, and notes that it isn't even made of matter. Miss Faragonda is concerned that the obelisks may be depleting all of the magic in Alfea. Stella, Flora, and Musa transform to their winx forms, and all take turns attacking the obelisk, but their attacks do nothing, except remove all the attacker's winx, leaving them powerless. Tecna, Layla, and Bloom transform next, and again, their attacks also simply deplete their winx. except for Bloom, who, for some unknown reason, has plenty of winx to spare. Yeah, we know Bloom is the most powerful, but this is simply ridiculous. All five of the other girls were down after a single attack, yet it'll take Bloom seemingly hundreds of attacks before she becomes powerless later. She isn't that much more god-like than the other girls! Not Bloom's fault, mind you--and I'm not faulting Bloom here--but the writers should've thought it out a little more. The creepy cloaked figure, who looks like he's probably Avalon, watches the goings-on.
COMMERCIAL BREAK #2
The Winx girls, minus Bloom, are back in their room, all having taken a shower, with Flora still taking hers, singing to herself in the shower. So Flora and Tecna both sing in the shower. Flora's song is actually cute, and seems that she could actually sing pretty nicely. Even if the lyrics could use some improvment. Tecna and Stella go on about how they're exhausted, and can't believe Bloom's still out there trying to destroy the obelisk.
At Red Fountain, in Sky and Brandon's room, Sky's trying to call Bloom, without luck.
Sky: Something's not right. Bloom hasn't answered her phone all night, and we had a phone date three hours ago.
Brandon: Don't worry, dude. She's probably just out with some other guy.
Absolute most freakin' hilarious line ever! Just came right out of the blue on Brandon's part, but especially considering Sky's overreaction to Brandon's line, it's obviously completely true. Sky is so totally jealous! Serves him right, after the Diaspro incident! Sky says he's just worried that something bad might've happened to Bloom. Sure, Sky. Tell yourself that. We're sure you believe it, too.
Outside, still at the obelisk, Bloom is still attacking it on and on, until she finally runs out of winx, and faints.
The other five Winx girls are still inside their room, feeling better physically, though worried about Bloom. Stella's certainly good at taking her mind off such things, though!
Stella: Where are you going, Flora? It's your turn. Would you rather have to wear polka dots the rest of your life, or plaid?
Flora: I'd rather go out and look for Bloom.
Stella: Hello! Answer the question! Don't be afraid to commit to a choice! No one here will judge you. I mean, not too much, anyway.
So very Stella, not wanting to dwell on Bloom. And what better way to try to relax than talking about something silly and superficial! Tecna agrees with Flora, that they should go out and look for Bloom, but Musa says that Bloom wouldn't listen, anyway, that she's too hard-headed. The electricity goes off at Alfea, caused by the storm, despite the electricity at Alfea being run off magic. Soon, the creepy cloaked man carries into their room a limp Bloom.
In Miss Faragonda's office the next morning, with the six Winx girls, Faragonda explains that the storm last night was the work of a powerful wizard, who's standing beside her, still cloaked. After taking off his hood, Stella, Layla, and Bloom recognize him as the paladin hunk who saved them back in the UnderRealm.
Back at the obelisk at the lake, Miss Faragonda introduces to the six Winx girls, as well as to eleven other random students, the newest member of the Alfea faculty, Professor Avalon. All the girls find Professor Avalon to be dreamy. Avalon casts a spell that destroys the obelisk. Faragonda says that Avalon created the obelisks to observe the girls' powers in action.
Tecna: Um, I have a question, Miss Faragonda. What's the name of the class Professor Avalon is teaching, and how many students will be asmitten--I mean, admitted!
Tecna's adorable when she's awkward like that! She was starting to get way too comfortable around Timmy, what with her bedroom voice and whatnot. Miss Faragonda explains that it's a master workshop, and that only twenty students will be admitted. Though since only seventeen students seem to be present for this meeting, I guess that won't be much of a problem, will it? Though an eighteenth does come running up toward the rest, out of breath. Avalon warns that the class will be quite difficult, though that hardly deters any of the girls from wanting to sign up for his class. Tecna happily says how she's never gotten anything lower than an A- before. So I guess back in "Pushing the Envelope," when the girls said that Musa had the highest grade, that it had to have been only for that one class. I guess Musa had an A+ for the class. Amaryl, oddly sweetly, asks about what this "genial power" is. Guess Amaryl can be nice when she's crushing on a guy. Though honestly, I'd have figured her to more likely start getting cattier with all the other girls oogling Avalon. Avalon explains that genial power is the power that connects one with their family and origin so one can best understand and connect to their own magic. Bloom asks if she can still learn it even if she doesn't know her origins, to which Avalon says it'll be more difficult, but that yes, she can still learn it.
Later, in a creepy, isolated room, Miss Faragonda gives four new pixies four jewels, saying that the jewels must remain secret. Two of them are Athena and Discorda, pixies at Red Fountain and Cloud Tower, respectively. Another is the pixie of Alfea's library. And the fourth... not sure. But anyway, I'm lollygagging here, and since Faragonda explains this whole exposition better than I could, I'll just hand it over to her.
Faragonda: I believe Lord Darkar is someone who seeks to enter the realm of Realix, and his hunt for the Codex, which will allow him to enter the portal, is what led him to your village, but as you know, there is another way to enter Realix. Lord Darkar must never learn of this way.
Gives us more questions than answers, really. Like what is Realix? And when did Sparx become not the most important magical place in existence? And what's this Codex? Guess we'll find it all out in due time.
COMMERCIAL BREAK #3
Sky and Brandon, on their hoverbikes, are riding over to Alfea. Because Sky's jealous. Whether he'll admit it or not.
Brandon: Sky, what are we doing?
Sky: I just want to check on Bloom.
Brandon: So swing by tomorrow afternoon.
Sky: Well, I don't want her to know I'm checking up on her!
Brandon: So we're spying.
Sky: No, I--I just don't want to look obsessive!
Brandon: Right, right.
Quite funny dialogue there, especially with the way Sky says his lines. I guess he's just so used to two-timing his girls that he can't trust Bloom. Ha! Sky insists they climb up a tree to spy on her. 'Cause chicks just dig Peeping Toms.
Inside Alfea, the students are all holding a party to welcome Professor Avalon to Alfea. Look closely, and you can see Knut playing the role of the DJ. Guess Knut knows the music that the kids like nowadays. Hey, he's hip! Flora wants to know how Avalon will make the class selections, but he stops her to explain that he also used the obelisks to absorb their magic so he could analyze it. Bloom asks what her report says about her, but Stella says that it's supposed to be a party, so less school talk, and more partying. I can see Stella's point, too. I mean, in real life, who wants to talk about schoolwork at a party? Bloom later follows Avalon to his office, trying to get him to spill about what his report on her says about her, with him backing up, trying to say how it wouldn't be fair to the other students to reveal her results early.
All the while, Sky's still spying in the tree outside, and sees Bloom going after Avalon, alone, in a room in Alfea, and gets pretty darn mad. Jealous! Sky knocks down a branch in anger, which hits a couple of magi-beaves below, which chomp down on the tree, falling it, with Brandon and Sky falling with it.
Other Stuff
A fun episode. A cute episode. A mostly fluff episode without much going on, but not a bad episode, either. Cute little pixie moments. Nice fun with Stella, and Tecna, and heck, Sky the Jealous! Ha! No witches again, though... not sure how they'd have fit in, but with so many witch-less episodes this season, I'm feeling a bit deprived.
What'd'ya know? The only case of Musa using slang in the episode wasn't even heard! All we heard was Tune saying that Musa used the word "bugging." And far as I'm concerned, there's nothing wrong with that word, anyway!
I'm guessing Lockette to be the second youngest of the pixies, ahead of Piff. The way she was scared of the storm, and the way Bloom was playing with her as if she were a baby... I don't see Tune or Chatta letting their fairy friends play with them that same way.
And Zing... where was Zing, anyway? She was missing the entire episode! Seems odd that she'd have just been wandering around Alfea all by herself, not knowing anyone, but eh, what do I know?
7 out of 10 on the old scale.
Party Monster
...or Hot for Teacher
Outside the old, destroyed Red Fountain, the six Winx girls, wearing different casual outfits from usual, are talking amongst themselves and their pixies, with Professor Avalon walking with them, excited about the celebration of the opening of the new Red Fountain school. Stella's excited about the party after the opening ceremony. Musa and Layla are going to be in the halftime show at the party. Parties have halftime shows? Avalon says that he won't be able to sit with the girls, that he's been invited to sit with Codatorta, who's wanted to meet with Avalon since he's a champion dragon wrangler, and he heads off. Get over it, Bloom.
Outside the gates, Mirta is standing by a couple of other fairies. Yes, Mirta! Finally back! You remember her, right? Mirta, the sweet little witch from who didn't really fit in at Cloud Tower, and was transferring to Alfea for her sophomore year? And then, after seven episodes, there's been no sign of Mirta anywhere? Well, she still exists! She's there, right outside the old Red Fountain, with a couple of other fairies. Anyway, Lucy, along with two other much prettier witches, start to enter the gates, with Layla feeling that the witches could cause trouble, and Tecna irate that witches are trying to sneak in. But Digit checks the guest list, and Musa says that the witches were invited for their help with the battle against the Trix sisters last year. Even though the witches were all oddly absent for all the fighting... I'd still love to know where the heck they all were! Mirta, though, sure is excited to see Lucy again, and shouts to her, while looking like she wants to give her a nice big hug, but Lucy completely ignores Mirta, just walking on by as if Mirta didn't exist. Guess Lucy's still being mad and petty with Mirta, then. Sigh. It is interesting that Layla didn't seem threatened by Mirta, though, despite the two never having met before. I guess they probably met or something off screen. We'll go with that!
As the Winx girls all enter the old Red Fountain, three "mystery" girls come up to the gates: a casual blonde girl, a sophisticated nicely-dressed girl, and a girl in a Sailor Moon-like skirt. Pretty obvious that these are the Trix sisters! In cute little disguises! Stormy--the one in the sailor outfit--says they're from the realm of Dorkland. I have to wonder if such place exists... I mean, would Stormy call herself a fairy from Dorkland? Seems like they might've wanted to come up with another realm to fake being from. Darcy is fairy princess Fifi. Stormy is her stepsister Missy. No word on Icy's codename. As for why they're there, we don't know... yet.
The Winx girls are sitting with their fairies, outside, on the Red Fountain grounds. Chatta is bugging Flora about finding a boyfriend, as the Specialists come. Sky formally introduces himself to the Winx girls, and Stella makes fun of his introduction. Tune scolds Stella for making fun of the centuries-old tradition. I love Tune! A random specialist says hi to Stella, and she flirtily says hi back to him, and talks about how he, Pete, used to be her boyfriend. Brandon looks like he'll gag, but he gets back, saying that Pete's the one who told him that since her hair used to be so frizzy, they nicknamed her Friztella. Heh. Good, Brandon! Stella starts getting all defensive about her hair, having a good reason for it and all, but Brandon tells her to just relax, that they all had nicknames. Meanwhile, Bloom and Sky talking about how excited they are to see the redone Red Fountain.
The group of ten walk to the stadium of Red Fountain, and Sky asks about Bloom being busy lately. Bloom says she's been busy. She says she can fit in a magi-skating date, though, until she suddenly remembers she has to write a paper for Professor Avalon's class, and has to go find him right away to approve of her topic. Down, Bloom! Down!
At a set of stairs at the old Red Fountain, the Trix sisters, still in disguise, are waiting. Stormy just wants to destroy stuff. Darcy complains, tired of waiting for Lord Darkar to show up. Icy says they should wait, though. It's a little more than that, though... she almost sounds as if she could be crushing on him! And here I thought she didn't "believe" in love. Oh Icy, what's happened to you?
The six Winx girls and four Specialists find a good spot to watch the day's events from. The girls notice a new guy, just sitting there, drawing. They think he may be a new student, but Timmy and Brandon explain that he's Helia, Saladin's grandson, and an art student, but isn't training to be a hero, as he's a pacifist. Brandon goes over to Helia to introduce the girls to him. As Brandon introduces the girls, Stella interrupts to introduce herself, in typical Stella fashion, with particular interest in Helia's art. Tecna notices the paintbrush, paint, and paper he's using, and has a bit to comment on it:
Tecna: With all due respect, Helia, why are you painting with antiques?
Tecna doesn't have much appreciation for antiques, does she? Heh... well then, I guess she's lived in a place all her life where antiques have always been useless and unloved. Digit babbles on about digisketching, trying to convince Helia to change his art platform. You know, I really wonder sometimes if Chatta is the most... well, chatty. Digit sure seems to have her own spurts of non-stop talking, too! Stella looks through his art, and is impressed. But Flora's really impressed, and understands the meaning behind his art, which impresses Helia. Pretty obvious Flora's falling for him... Chatta and Amore both seem happy to see her falling in love.
Outside the old Red Fountain structure, Bloom rushes up some stairs, in search of Professor Avalon. Oh, come on already, Bloom! Leave the guy alone! She rushes right past the three Trix sisters, in disguise, all tired of waiting for Lord Darkar, when Bloom asks them if they know where Avalon is. They sigh in disgust, but as soon as they notice it's Bloom right behind them, they all look away quickly, with the cutest worried expressions. Interesting to note for later: Bloom did not seem to pick up on any of this. Lockette seemed suspicious, but Bloom? Perfectly oblivious. Icy, trying to disguise her voice, says they hadn't seen anyone, so Bloom heads off, continuing to search for Avalon. The Trix breathe a sigh of relief, not having been caught.
COMMERCIAL BREAK #1
Bloom rushes to her friends, already seated, having given up looking for Professor Avalon, since she didn't want to miss any of the ceremony. Stella reports that she got back just in time. In the middle of the open field, Codatorta, welcomes everyone, and thanks them for helping with the Witch Invasion of '05. '05? Err... shouldn't it be '04? Or not dated, period? Saladin starts glowing, causing an earthquake of sorts, causing the whole destroyed Red Fountain to fall below the ground, and in its place, arises a new, modern-looking floating structure, and Saladin goes on about how great the new school, and in particular, the new stadium will be.
The Trix sisters wait outside a few leftover ruins of Red Fountain, as their shadows on a leftover structure turns into Darkar's image. Lord Darkar complains that the witches weren't where they were supposed to be, but Icy complains that they don't wait more than ten minutes for anyone. I'm a little bit confused, though. Where they were waiting was destroyed, so it's not really their fault they couldn't wait there anyway... right? Or... blah. I'm thinking too much. Darkar says he should destroy them, but doesn't, since he likes their attitudes.
Outside the stadium, in an outside little recreational area, are Stella, Tecna, Flora, Bloom, Brandon, and Timmy. Flora hopes Helia is going to be at the party after the rest of the day's events. Brandon gets everyone up and ready to go back to the stadium, telling Bloom that Sky and Riven are fighting next, and Timmy will be in the parade after. All of them but Timmy and Tecna go right on inside. Tecna's playing some sort of holographic video game with digit, and says she'll be right there, as Timmy just looks at the two having fun, looking saddened.
Musa and Layla are walking around outside, with Piff on Layla's head, and Tune flying with Musa. It appears Musa's going to DJ at the party, and Layla shows off her tidewalk she's going to do when the music starts, and Musa starts giggling... but a passerby just seems to think they're being stupid, saying "gag me." It's Darcy in disguise! Kind of a big mistake for Darcy to make, there. You'd think she'd have been a little more careful. Layla wonders what her problem is, but Musa recognizes her voice and general "feeling" as being Darcy's, and chases after Darcy. Musa and Layla throw their soft drinks to the ground in their rush after Darcy, as Tune looks at the two, wondering what the heck has gotten into Musa, and just continues sipping her own tea. Tune's adorable! And it seems Musa's better at recognizing the witches than Bloom is, considering how Bloom wasn't the least bit suspicious when she ran into the three earlier, but here Musa is, picking up on Darcy's vibes almost immediately! Go Musa! So much more enjoyable when she's not crushed with all the outdated slang!
Tecna and Digit are still outside, playing their holographic video game, and Digit wins! The look of disgust on Tecna's face after losing, just priceless! Digit then starts drilling Tecna about Timmy, wanting her to go up to Timmy and talk, but Tecna says she feels uncomfortable around Timmy. Digit tries to get Tecna to show her the dream she had, and finally gets Tecna to comply, as long as Digit promises not to make fun of her. She puts on a pair of green cyber glasses of sorts, and Tecna appears in a green digital kingdom, along with Timmy. She starts getting flirty with Timmy, seemingly having him chase her, while she's laughing nonsensically. She says they were about to kiss right before she woke up. Well, I can understand the dream embarrassing Tecna: I mean, she was acting so very non-Tecna-like! But then, who ever said dreams were supposed to make sense, anyway? I guess poor Tecna doesn't understand why she'd behave so foolishly.
Tecna: So now do you understand why I've been so uncomfortable around him?
Digit: Would you start acting logically and go find him?
Meanwhile, Musa and Layla are still chasing after Darcy, while all the other people they pass just look confused. At least they all have an excuse this time to not get involved: I mean, from the outside, it probably just looks like a typical catfight of sorts. Musa and Layla run into Tecna, and tell her that they were chasing Darcy. For some reason, Tecna asks Digit to check the guest list. Um... why? Why the heck would they invite Darcy, or any of the Trix sisters? The girls who tried to take over the whole universe last year? I mean, come on, Tecna... logic's your strong suit! Tecna wonders if maybe it's just a younger sister, or maybe another girl who sounds just like her. Musa insists she's right, though, that it was definitely Darcy, and goes to look for the others to warn them.
In Shadowhaunt, Lord Darkar turns his pet bird Kerbog into a slimy gargoyle-like creature, to destroy the new Red Fountain, and everyone there.
COMMERCIAL BREAK #2
Inside Red Fountain's new stadium, Sky and Riven are fighting out in the field, where Riven sets off some sort of weak bomb on Sky. Bloom is worried, that Riven shouldn't be allowed to do it, but Musa says that it's extreme fighting they're doing. Digit says it officially became a sport three years ago. Out on the field, though, Sky defeats Riven. Bloom cheers, yelling "Good job, Sky!" Musa has an absolute look of disgust on her face, though, and is obviously annoyed with Bloom's not caring about Riven. Musa had to say nothing. Her expression alone conveyed it all. Poor Musa. I feel bad for her... she's really been a more enjoyable character this whole season. Riven complains that everything's easy for him, that everything falls into his lap. Sky yells back, that he knows that isn't true. Riven's heard enough, though, and walks out, obviously a sore loser, and obviously feeling bad about himself. As Bloom continues cheering, Musa says she hopes Riven is OK, but is interrupted by Stella, pointing out Brandon's being up next. So I guess Musa's probably a bit unnerved with Stella and Bloom now. Someone ought to talk to Musa, maybe?
As Brandon comes onto the field, to face the senior he'll be fighting, a large shadow covers the whole arena. The gargoyle-like creature Darkar created has arrived, and most of the stadium starts to flee for their lives, including a mis-colored Bloom--I guess Bloom had another sister after all--and the brunette witch we saw earlier. So I guess the witches can be trusted in events like this after all. At least sometimes. Of course, as everyone else is running for their lives, the six Winx girls and four Specialists stay to fight. I mean, with all the fairies, witches, and warriors around, how come the main ten are the only ones who are staying to risk their lives, here? I mean, everyone else can fight too, right? Err... right? The Winx girls transform to their winx forms, as usual before a big fight. Stella and Bloom shoot blasts at it, but it just absorbs the magic. Flora says it's a liodragerous, which was supposed to be extinct. Codatorta orders the Junior Brigade to get to the bleachers.
Stormy, still in disguise, watching from outside Red Fountain, figures it's time to finally lose the disguise she hates, and get inside Red Fountain to go after the Codex. Icy, elsewhere outside Red Fountain comes to the same conclusion.
In the stadium, Stella, Bloom, and Layla are still attacking the liodragerous, but can't seem to find a weak spot on the monster. Codatorta and three others are riding on dragons to attack the monster.
Outside, Timmy is trying to get everyone out in an orderly fashion, telling them all to form a single line. The most amazing thing is, while they're not forming a single line, they are all exiting in an orderly fashion! How they can get them all to leave without trampling on one another is simply amazing! A guy comes to give Timmy an important message for Codatorta, which Timmy decides is bad.
Back in the stadium, Codatorta gets Timmy's "red dragon alert." He alerts Saladin, and he says everyone could be in danger if they get the Codex, so they must go after the intruders immediately. Saladin says that Bloom and Sky and their cliques can take care of the monster themselves. Question is, why aren't any of the other students helping out? The two summon a ship of guards to help the two out with the intruders.
The Winx girls and Specialists are having trouble with the liodragerous, though. But right as it's about to eat Flora, Helia holds it back with some powerful strings. Flora's smitten, of course. Helia asks if Flora is OK, and when she says he is, he lets it go, to the other girls' disgust.
Bloom: Hey! Why did he let it go?!
Stella: That Helia's "some" pacifist; he fights to protect Flora, but no one else?!
Tecna: It's completely illogical. If you don't believe in fighting, don't fight at all!
Bloom seemed to be in shock that Helia would do such a thing: Stella and Tecna both seemed absolutely disgusted that he'd treat them with such disrespect. And they should: that was crappy of Helia. So, he doesn't care if anyone else gets killed, only Flora, because he has a crush on her, and not them. And the monster could've gone right back after Flora after he let it go, so it's not like she was really all that safe, anyway. So yeah... kind of a jerk. Helia, outside of the stadium, looks back and smiles, then walks away. Amore tell Stella how romantic Helia was being, though she didn't seem to agree. Sky pretty much by himself comes up with a plan to defeat the monster, with help from all the Winx girls and specialists. The archery guys shoot at the liodragerous to hold it down, while Sky and group take aim on it to defeat it.
COMMERCIAL BREAK #3
Inside Red Fountain, Codatorta is discussing with Saladin and the other warriors with him the strategy they'll be using to protect the Codex.
The Winx girls are worried, since the liodragerous is about to break free, though Flora holds it back some more using Ivy web to entangle the monster more. Tecna's found the dragon's point of vulnerability, and the Specialists go to attack it, though there's never any real indication as to exactly where the weak point was, or where they attacked the monster to force it to explode.
Inside Red Fountain, Codatorta says that the warriors can use any means necessary to slay the intruders if they find them. Icy's about to attack the warriors herself, but Lord Darkar insists that they retreat and return to Shadowhaunt. Icy tries to put up a fight, but she listens to Darkar, anyway.
Outside Red Fountain, back in the little recreational area, Avalon apologizes for not being there to take out the monster, saying he was taking a tour at the time, and that when he got back to the stadium, the fight was already over. Bloom says Avalon could've taken the monster out right away. Pull it together already, Bloom! Sky is sitting away from Bloom and Avalon, continuing being jealous. Meanwhile, a paper airplane flies by, landing into Flora's lap, sitting under another tree by herself. It's a drawing of Flora, for Flora, and she feels warmth, obviously having a crush on Helia, as he was obviously the one who sent the drawing over to Flora.
Back down in Shadowhaunt, Lord Darkar has a talk with the Trix sisters, wondering what they thought of the beast he created.
Icy: You're the man, LD, you rock my world, you really do.
Oh, Icy... come on! I mean... do you really have to have a crush on the ugly guy? I mean, you're Icy! You don't need no stinkin' love! Icy still wants to know why they couldn't take out the warriors. Darkar explains that it wouldn't be fun to destroy them when they most expect it, and besides, they already have one part of the Codex. Once they get the other three, they'll have complete control over the entire universe! And then a lame joke about Shadowhaunt becoming the haunt. Sigh.
Other Stuff
Enjoyable episode. We had Mirta back, even if just for a bit; we had the Trix sisters back, in cool disguises; we had good bits with Tecna, Musa, and Stella, and an interesting fight, if not revealing a certain someone's questionable crush on Flora.
Digit has snuck in as my favorite of the pixies, with her logical way of thinking, while still being "in" with some things, like understanding slang--even if she doesn't seem overly fond of it--and trying to convince Helia to change his way of doing art, thinking her way is better... just yay Digit!
And one of these days, how about seeing more Zing? Or any Zing at all? Poor girl still hasn't done a thing!
Helia didn't overly impress me. Saving Flora, then letting the monster go, not caring about any of the other girls? Tecna said it well: if he doesn't believe in fighting, he should've just stayed out. I mean, the monster could've easily went after Flora again, even!
9 out of 10 on the old scale.
The Angel of Doom
...or Tecna's Starring Role! Finally!
At night, Bloom is sleeping in her room, dreaming of her past, when she was a baby back on Sparx. We see her father, mother, and sister Daphne in shadows before her. Her Dad is giving her the Medallion of Protection, and names the child Bloom. Daphne notes baby Bloom crying, and Mom goes to pick up the baby, right as sleeping Bloom at Alfea wakes up, gasping. You could actually see Mom slightly before Bloom wakes up: not a lot, but you can see she shares the same hair color with her daughter. Bloom realizes those were her birth parents, and can't believe she remembers them. Understandable. It's not exactly every day that someone can recall such detail from back when they were an infant. Probably somewhat easier for a fairy, I'm betting. Bloom tries to fall back to sleep, crying.
The next morning, the six Winx girls, as well as all the students at Alfea, are having breakfast. Stella complains about not having enough food, that she's a growing girl, and needs it. Tecna says they've all finished growing, and the food provided was enough, but Digit corrects Tecna, saying that 58% of them still have a couple more years of growing left. Stella complains that Tecna should listen to Digit, and Tecna, begrudgedly, hands her food over to Stella. Stella isn't able to grab the apple on the plate, though, and when she tries picking it up again, it starts multiplying. Stella's furious that she can't seem to get ahold of any apples.
Amaryl: Isn't it obvious, Stella? Someone thinks you've grown enough.
Guess her little nice act for Professor Avalon was just to impress teacher. Amaryl's back to her old obnoxious self again, though I do wonder why she's sitting right next to her mortal nemesis, in the first place. Wizgiz pops up behind the girls, saying that he used his magical multiplier on the apple, giving the illusion of there being a lot of apples, despite none being there. There're still real cookies on the plate, though, and Stella shoves her face right into the plate! Right into the plate! I'm sure her parents would go "My word!" and faint if they saw Stella's atrocious table manners! Being eternally hungry is one thing, but the next thing you know, she's going to be burping for all her friends! Stella still has a lot of crumbs on her face when she finishes, and doesn't seem to be in any hurry to clean herself up. As she's complaining that it wasn't enough food, Professor Avalon magically provides all the girls with flowers. Avalon goes up to Bloom, telling her that he thinks he knows how he can help Bloom find out about her origins, and to see him later about it. After he leaves, Stella glows about how he's going to teach her a fashion spell, and Musa about how he's going to help her add an octave to her singing range. Tecna doesn't trust him, though. Stella says she's just jealous that he hasn't helped her, but Stella just thinks Tecna's jealous that he hasn't tried to help her. Reasonable assumption, mind you, but that's... not really it in this case. Tecna's just being her usual logically-thinking Tecna self. Digit agrees with Tecna's observations.
Outside, Tecna and Layla are carrying books, walking alongside Miss Faragonda. Professor Avalon finds Faragonda, and tells her that he knows of a way to increase Alfea's magic ranking. Faragonda gushes even, saying how Avalon's a dream come true. Tecna gives an evil glare, not noticed by anyone.
In Professor Avalon's class, it seems all the girls had given Avalon a bouquet of flowers. Flora tells him how much he deserves it. Avalon tells her that the only reward he wants is to see his students blossom. Tecna rolls her eyes at that. I mean, let's face it: even if he really is a nice guy, his response to Flora was just schmaltzy. Avalon goes on to explain that they'll blossom as they start to understand more to the true nature of their powers, that all the students have parts of themselves that they understand, and parts that they don't understand, but he'll help them find out about themselves, but they'll have to trust him completely.
In Tecna's room, she's on her computer, and Digit is inside the computer. Digit finds a book online that might explain who Avalon is. It's in some obscure language, but Digit says she'll be able to have it translated. In the book, an old guy warns to beware of a winged creature who will pretend to be a friend, and will promise the world if only complete trust is given to him, but when the three planets of the Triad planetary system align, the paladin will become an evil monster, and destroy all. Tecna notes that the realm of Frost is being shown, being destroyed, the same realm Avalon talked about earlier that day.
Tecna: Looks like we've figured out what Professor "Trust Me" Avalon is all about!
COMMERCIAL BREAK #1
In the library, Tecna finds a restricted book, and casts a spell to open it. When she does, she sees the same old guy on the cover that she saw in her computer search. She notes a paladin in the book with retractable wings, just like Avalon's. He isolates the strongest, gain their trust by promising to grant their deepest desire. When the three planets align, he'll absorb their power. Digit and Tecna aren't sure when the three planets will align, but they're both worried.
Digit is searching the quad outside Alfea, and Tecna's searching the hallways. Digit spots Avalon outside, but at the same moment, Tecna sees him walking down the hall, even smiling at her. Tecna lets out an awkward giggle. Tecna yells for Lockette's help, rushing past, saying that Bloom might be in trouble. And for some reason, Lockette is wearing different clothing than usual. Seems Chatta gave her the new outfit in a deleted scene to cheer her up. Not nearly as cute an outfit, though. They rush to a closed door, and peeking through the keyhole, see Bloom inside with Avalon. Tecna is worried that Avalon is already taking control of Bloom with his crystal, but he's just using it to show Bloom her family tree, showing her birth Dad as Oritel and her birth Mom as Miriam, as well as all her ancestors. We can't read any of the other names, though, aside from Bloom's name and Daphne's. And Daphne is definitely Bloom's only sibling, as shown on the family tree Lockette says that he's only helping Bloom, but Tecna insists that he's only trying to gain her trust to take advantage of her trust later.
The other four Winx girls are hanging out in the hallway.
Stella: The fashion spell he showed me was a complete dud: it mixed plaid with stripes!
Heh... so I guess Stella's not as impressed with Avalon as she once was. But then, maybe Avalon just has strange taste in clothing. Flora says she probably got the spell wrong. Stella wouldn't have appreciated that, but before she could say anything, Professor Palladium bumped into the girls in the hallway. The girls are surprised to see him, since he looks stronger and more debonair than he did last year. He says the hot springs in the realm of Buff, and a potion Wizgiz gave to him led to his transformation.
In Professor Palladium's class, he announces he's teaching advanced magical spells. Bloom whispers to Musa how Palladium seems to have changed since last year.
Cue the flashback! Tecna sure is having fun in the flashback, sitting on top her desk, throwing a paper airplane, which is seen flying around throughout the flashback. Stella wants to try too... just not with a paper airplane....
Stella: Let's see how aerodynamic our textbook is!
Not the brightest idea in the world, but again, she didn't seem to care as much earlier last season, anyway. In fact, the entire class is shown being very rowdy, with the exception of Flora, who looks kinda' pissed that everyone else is being so loud. Yeah, of course Flora would be the one who's being Miss Goody Two-Shoes... nice to see it isn't Bloom this time! There is someone else in the class who looks kinda' like Flora, though, but with different clothing. Is there any other student who bears a decent resemblance to Flora? Palladium is trying to settle the entire class down, looking like his old wimpy self. He isn't really succeeding, and gets hit in the face with a flying textbook, proving that textbooks are not particularly aerodynamic. Considering Stella was probably on thin ice after her expulsion last year, she probably could've gotten in pretty serious trouble there, too.
Out of flashback mode, Palladium tells the students that he'll be teaching them a spell today to reveal the true nature of an enemy. Tecna sneers to herself.
In the assembly room, the girls are all seated in the bleachers. On the floor, Palladium demonstrates the sphere of truth, a sphere that has the power to show the true nature of one's opponent. Stella jumps up with glee, wanting to try it, but Palladium warns that if she isn't careful, she could wind up spilling her own secrets. Stella then hurriedly volunteers Amaryl to go ahead and demonstrate, and Amaryl's obviously not pleased with Stella's volunteering her. On the floor, Palladium instructs Amaryl to concentrate completely, to empty her thoughts, and focus only on the sphere itself. She's doing well, and actually seems pretty happy, able to control it so easily. Not evil-happy, but genuine happy-happy. Palladium instructs her to aim for the targets, away from all the students, and tells her to be careful, that she wouldn't want to misfire the orb. But Amaryl, with the sudden look of a Trix sister on her face, turns around and aims the orb squarely for Stella! Palladium casts a spell to stop it right before hitting Stella; Stella looks as if she's about to faint. Palladium, furious, yells at Amaryl for trying to harm Stella, essentially, and gives her detention for a week.
Outside Alfea, Livy is air-surfing on her message toward the school, laughing all the way. Livy temporarily forgets what she was supposed to be doing with the message, but quickly remembers that she's supposed to be delivering it to Tecna.
The five Winx girls, minus Bloom, are sitting together in Alfea's library, along with all the pixies, including Lockette. Tecna explains to the girls the evidence she has that Avalon is most likely the Angel of Doom. The others try to think if they can somehow stop him, including Zing. Including ZING! Zing has finally done something! Horray for Zing! Tecna says they need to figure out how long they have before the three planets align, but Livy thinks she knows: she has a message for Tecna about the witches' celestial celebration, probably about those very planets! Tecna says she'll go to Cloud Tower to talk with Miss Griffin there.
Timmy drives Tecna to Cloud Tower on his hoverbike. Don't worry... Timmy doesn't do anything annoying, and Tecna's not even flirting! He's just there for a logical, practical purpose--bringing Tecna to Cloud Tower. Just business. No funny business. Tecna carries Digit and Zing with her, and Livy's air-surfing along with them.
Back outside Alfea, Avalon is holding his class. Avalon is ready to have his students practice what they've been learning, and asks for his first "victim." Bloom wants to go first. The other Winx girls, minus Tecna obviously, shout "NO!" but Bloom ignores them. Bloom doesn't appreciate Stella trying to physically hold her back. Musa tells the other girls to keep an eye on Avalon. Unimportant in the grand scheme of things, but Amaryl looks as if she couldn't believe that Stella wanted to hold Bloom back. Probably filing this stuff away for later revenge use.
At Cloud Tower, Miss Griffin tells Tecna, Timmy, Digit, Zing, and Livy that the witches are celebrating the alignment of the Triad planetary system tonight, and that it always brings marvelous catastophies, but some take the celebration too far, and Griffin fears that Avalon is going to do just that with Bloom. Yay, Miss Griffin! Nice to finally see her pop up this season. Digit says they'd better hurry back to Alfea.
COMMERCIAL BREAK #2
Back at Avalon's outdoor class, Bloom and random-student Selene are charging each other with swords. Selene has an old, steel sword, and Bloom has a holosword like the Red Fountain guys use. Selene completely breaks Bloom's sword with hers. Bloom looks like she's just seen a ghost. Avalon says that Bloom needs to learn to trust her instincts, that she was originally going to take the old sword, but then went with the pretty one, and says that the old steel sword is much more suitable for battle. I feel kinda' bad for Selene, though: she's getting completely ignored by Avalon. No "You were wise to choose the steel sword" or anything, just "Bloom this," and "Bloom that." Also, during his little pep talk with Bloom, we get a close-up shot of Flora giving one of the weirdest glares ever. So very, very out of place.
Back in Bloom's second dormroom... err, I mean Avalon's office, Bloom is lying on a couch, and Avalon has crystals floating around her which will transport her through a magical time continuum.
Back outside, Tecna rushes up to the rest of the Winx girls, telling them that Bloom is in terrible danger.
And inside the office again, Bloom's having a vision of when she was a baby again, and sees dark, blurry visions of her parents and Daphne. She almost immediately "wakes up," startled. Bloom tells Avalon that her Mother was singing to her. Avalon tells Bloom that she's doing well.
Back at Cloud Tower, Miss Griffin tells Digit, Livy, and Zing that if Avalon is indeed the Angel of Doom, then they've only got a few minutes before he changes. The three fly back to Alfea, with Zing wearing a red suit. Zing's playful like that. Wish I knew who she was meant to be dressed as.
In Layla's room, Francis is asleep, holding Piff, also asleep. Yes! Francis! We've finally got a look at Layla's roommate at Alfea! True, she isn't really doing anything in this episode, but boy, can't wait for when she does! The five Winx girls and all the pixies are discussion a plan of action. They're going to put a containment spell on the building so Avalon can't escape. Tecna says they've got four minutes before he transforms, and that's when they need to hit. Zing, descending from the ceiling via strings, in a Mission Impossible sort of way, excited about the mission, asking where she'll be needed, but Layla, grabbing the strings, and with Zing struggling to get away, says that the mission is too dangerous for the pixies, so they need to stay behind. Poor Zing. So eager and energetic, so wanting to be the comedienne of the group, and so neglected until this episode, and ol' Layla's not even going to let her have any fun.
The five Winx girls rush to Avalon's room, but no one's there. Turns out Avalon was just relaxing in a sauna in his bathroom, though, and quickly comes out fully dressed. Guys dress fast, keep in mind. The five Winx girls all transform to their Winx forms, intending to attack Avalon. Tecna flat-out accuses Avalon of being the Angel of Doom. Avalon sprouts out his wings and flies away, as the fairies clumsily crash into one another trying to get to him. The girls corner him by a window, which thanks to the containment spell, he can't escape from. Avalon insists he's not the Angel of Doom. Tecna performs the sphere of truth taught by Palladium to use on Avalon to blast him. Flora is no longer so sure that Avalon is the Angel of Doom, that he should've transformed by now if he was, but it's too late: Tecna has gone and fired away, leaving Avalon burnt out, and the window demolished.
COMMERCIAL BREAK #3
The five Winx girls, minus Bloom, are in Miss Faragonda's office, along with Griselda, Palladium, Wizgiz, and Avalon. Tecna tries to explain herself, that Avalon is evil, and explains her reasons as to what he's done and who he is. Avalon says that there are over 10,000 other paladins with wings just like his. Wizgiz explains that his magical multiplier allowed it to appear that Avalon was in multiple places at once, and shows it by making copies of Faragonda.
Stella: More than one headmistress? Eww, what a nightmare!
The Winx girls all apologize for accusing Avalon of being the Angel of Doom, except Tecna, who still doesn't understand the whole thing, since logic told her that Professor Avalon was evil. She ultimately apologizes along with the others. Though in all honesty, I wonder just how sorry Tecna is. I have this feeling that she's not about to let go of the idea of Avalon being evil. Deep down, she likely still feels she is right. Heck, I still question it, myself!
At the quad outside Alfea, Bloom lies in the grass, holding her Medallion of Protection above her, and sighs.
Other Stuff
Excellent episode! It had... well, it had what some of us have been dying for: a starring role for Tecna! And what a great way to remind all the little kids who dislike Tecna that, hey, she can be really interesting if focused on for a chance!
First of all, Tecna really, truly got the spotlight in the episode, and it only took 35 episodes to remember her existance! And shone she did! Coming to her logical conclusions as to why Professor Avalon couldn't be trusted, and her conclusions were making sense. And heck, she probably still believes she is right! And she may just be right!
After all that, I'm not entirely convinced that Avalon is necessarily as innocent as he seems. He may not be the Angel of Death described in that book, but that doesn't exactly mean he's Mr. Innocent, either. Tecna, keep a close eye on him.
Even though Timmy was in the episode, his role was extremely minimal, and Tecna wasn't gushing over him in the least. Thank goodness!
It was Tecna's show, but Stella still had an enjoyable role in the episode, herself! Like she usually does... we saw her little rivalry with Amaryl, and her odd eating habits again, and her not convincing Bloom not to volunteer in Avalon's class... good ol' Stella, as usual.
Amaryl is a little wench. We knew this already, but it seems she harbors a particular dislike for Stella. It's almost like Mandy Vs. Clover, except for the spies, neither of them is really that nice. I like Amaryl, anyway. Or I like hating her. Something like that.
We've finally got a decent look at Zing... she actually did stuff in today's show! She likes adventure, and she likes being silly. Can't say she's my favorite pixie at the moment, but she could easily dethrone Digit.
And Francis! We finally got to see Layla's roommate Francis in this episode! True, all she was doing was sleeping, but she's gotta' be a sweet person... I mean, Piff saw it fit to sleep in her arm!
Hmm... oh yeah! Bloom learned a bit about her birth parents. This is OK, as it's not being shoved in our face, the "Ooh, I don't know anything about where I'm from or who I am, yada yada yada" Bloom we saw so much of last season.
10 out of 10 on the old scale.
