Archive of Our Own ^beta

The train slowed, causing Lloyd to look out of the window. He was greeted by Luora’s sleek, diamond decorated station. Zane already stood up and started taking their luggage out as Cole stretched beside him with a long yawn. Jay was waking Nya up and Kai was putting some stuff away into his bag. Lloyd was the last one to get out of the cabin, following the five outside with his own luggage.

Luora was as beautiful as always. The weather was beautiful, the buildings shiny and everyone was smiling. Everyone except Lloyd, whose nerves were eating him alive.

“Your first summit as a Protector!” - Cole rested a hand over his straw hat, looking up at the sunny skies. None of them are wearing their school robes, the ravenette in a black tunic with an orange belt. - “You must be over the moon Lloyd.” - He smiled at the shorter.

The blonde sighed. - “I am excited, that much is true.” - Lloyd was in a green sleeveless doublet, robes tied around his waist. His clothing was much neater than Cole’s. - “But I’m also a little nervous… maybe more than a little.”

“You’re nervicited!” - Jay suddenly appeared next to Lloyd. The chestnut brunette was wearing his orange scarf as usual, over a knee-length tunic, sleeves pushed up to his elbows. Of course he was bursting with energy. - “It’s like when you want to jump up and down and yell yay! But you also want to just curl up in a ball and hide away forever.” - He hugged himself. - “Trust me, I know.”

“You have no reason to worry Lloyd.” - Zane rested a hand on the blonde's shoulder. The taller was wearing neat white robes, despite the warm weather. - “Everything will be just fine–”

“Wait!” - Kai yelled. His handmade robes are held over his shoulders with a brooch. - “Don’t tell me you forgot your staff?!” - Lloyd blinked at the brunette before turning around and showing him the baldric that was strapped over his shoulder and covered the staff with leather. - “Oh, thank Master.”

“I don’t like carrying it around. Feels like I’m showing off.” - The blonde pouted.

Nya was wearing something tighter, meant for athletics. - “You are a Protector now! Embrace it little guy!” - She patted him on the back.

Lloyd looked at all his friends with a small smile, trying to push his anxieties away. The group made their way into the castle, making small talk between each other and marveling at all the changes that had been done since their last visit. Because Lloyd’s father had returned to a position of power the castle had to accommodate two protectors, indulging in some of his personal tastes. Speaking of his father and uncle, the six finally saw the two Protectors in the throne room, both waiting with smiles on their faces, surrounded by guards.

The second they step onto the rolled out red carpet, trumpets sound, announcing their presence.

Lloyd jumped at the sounds, looking around bewildered with his friends before slowly continuing onwards, standing in front of his family. - “Lloyd!” - His father smiles, walking up to him and embracing him in a hug. The blonde lets out a sigh of relief at any formalities being dropped. - “It is so good to see you again, son.”

“Indeed,” - Wu was running a hand through his beard as he joined them. - “We have much to discuss. However, that can wait till tomorrow. You must all be tired from the journey and commotion.”

The six nodded, following Garmadon as he led them to their rooms, all while asking them about school and such, hand always on Lloyd’s shoulder. Comforting. Lloyd is still learning what it means to have a father and he can tell Garmadon is trying his best to be a one, no matter his status and work.

Lloyd’s room was the furthest, and he guessed the grandest. - “Here is your room for the time being.” - His father opened the door for him, letting him in first. It’s a bit empty but Lloyd doesn’t miss how it specifically has green accents, his favourite colour.

“Thank you.” - He smiled before letting out a deep breath, dragging his baggage with him.

Garmadon leaned against the doorframe, watching his son. - “What are you so concerned with? Worry is written all over your face.”

He gave his father a sour look, sitting down on the bed. - “Just nervous about everything. This is all still very sudden to me! I’m just worried I’m not… up to the task of being a Protector.”

The older man thought for a moment before shaking his head. - “I understand, but you shouldn’t worry. There is a reason you were chosen. You have a lot to learn but deep down you are right where you are meant to be.”

Lloyd slowly nodded. - “I guess I just need to sleep on it. Thank you though.” - He stood up to stretch and reached for some clothes to change to. - “Goodnight.”

“Goodnight Lloyd. And remember,” - His father started closing the door. - “We’re all so proud of you, no matter what.”

It’s only once he’s alone that Lloyd let out a frustrated groan. He knows his father is right. He just can’t help but think he doesn’t deserve it. Or that somehow he’ll fuck up. He changed into some nightwear and flopped onto the bed before turning around to lie on his stomach and reach for the bag. He pulled out his necklace, holding it up to the bedside candle. He supposes that now, while he’s at the castle, he should probably wear it properly.

Deep breaths Lloyd, deep breaths.. He shook his head, blowing out the candle and turning on his side, hugging a pillow. Right now he should focus on getting some good sleep. He’s with his friends and family.

Everything will be fine.

***

It’s a bit hard to get used to magic again but soon enough it feels like second nature once more.

The guards are patrolling the area at the exact same time as he remembered they did. Sneaking past them was just as easy as it used to be and before long he’s by the sleeping quarters, hiding in the shadows. Peeking through the doors he sees unfamiliar faces. Ravenette, brunette, no, no. He’s looking for…

Blonde!

The door to the young Garmadon’s room gently opened, the hooded figure walking further in. Just his luck: the Element of Harmony is right there. He wouldn’t have to go searching.

Gently he lifted it up with magic, reaching his hands out to grab it, tightening his fist around the gold chain. He held it up to the light peeking from the hallway, watching the green glisten. Incredible. Such power didn’t deserve to be in the hands of a random boy who happened to be the son of a banished Protector.

He stepped back before turning around, opening the door a bit more in an effort to leave.

It’s the light that wakes Lloyd up. He’s a bit dazed, shuffling to try and get back to sleep but movement in his room catches his eye. That and the necklace the intruder was holding. Lloyd immediately sat up. - “My Element!”

The hooded figure flinched, looking back at Lloyd before suddenly bolting. Lloyd scrambled out of bed and yelled after him.

“Give me back my necklace!” - He continued running after him, effectively waking up everyone in their rooms.

“What’s with the yelling?” - Cole peeked out of his room, gaping when the two ran past him.

“He stole my Element!” - Lloyd rounded the corner after the figure, his friends running out of their rooms to follow after the duo.

Lloyd continued his chase, his friends catching up. The thief bursts through the doors of a room that Lloyd has never been in before. Seems like a storage room. He doesn't have the chance to think about it because the moment the thief slowed down he jumped onto him, dragging him to the ground and accidentally knocking the necklace out of his grip. It goes flying towards a mirror and Lloyd half expected it to shatter the glass.

What he didn’t expect was for it to go straight through the mirror. He and his friends gasp, Lloyd sitting up and glaring at the figure under him. - “What did you do with my Element?!”

The intruder stared before snickering, suddenly kicking Lloyd in the gut and getting out from his grip, jumping up to his legs and running to the mirror. - “Sorry it had to be this way!” - He gave a quick wave before jumping into the mirror, disappearing along with the Element.

The six are left alone in the storage room, looking at each other in confusion. It’s Lloyd who finally speaks up.

“What the fuck was that?!”

***

Wu and Garmadon showed up soon after, getting alerted by the guards of the situation. The six are now fully awake, waiting in the storage room and looking around, yet keeping their distance from the mirror out of fear.

The explanation of what happened doesn’t take long and a brief description of what the boy looked like had Wu raising his hand to silence them.

“Morro.”

“W-who?” - Jay tilted his head.

“He was a student of mine not long before Lloyd. A very promising one at that.” - Wu shook his head, looking away. - “However, when he did not get what he wanted as quickly as he liked he turned cruel and dishonest. He eventually decided to abandon his studies and lead a path of his own, one that has led to him stealing the Element of Harmony.”

“I still don’t understand.” - Lloyd shook his head. - “Where did he even go?!”

Wu walked up to the mirror. - “You will soon know more about the place he went to than even I do.”

Lloyd raised his eyebrow in confusion, his fathers hand getting placed on his shoulder. - “This is no ordinary mirror. It is a gateway to another world, one that only opens once every twelve moons.”

“Back when it was held in the throne room Morro had no family or home to call his own so he used it to run away.” - Wu turned away from the mirror to look at the six. - “I had always hoped that one day he would come back to Luora to seek my guidance once more. Clearly, that has not happened.”

Lloyd frowned at his uncle's words, looking up when his fathers grip tightened. - “Son, there is only one way to get your Element back.” - Garmadon looked at him with worry. - “You have to follow after him. Without the Element of Magic the other Elements have no power and the entirety of Jago is left without its biggest defence. Your necklace does not belong in the place that Morro now calls home. I have no doubt its power will be used to bring harm to the inhabitants of this other realm.”

The boy slowly nodded, looking back at the mirror. - “I understand the importance of my task. I promise I’ll do my best.” - He squeezed his fathers hand before moving forwards, up to the mirror.

“Woah, woah!” - A hand was suddenly placed on his shoulder and he turned around to face Nya. - “What makes you think you’re going alone?” - The girl grinned, his other friends joining in to stand by his side.

“Exactly! We’ll help every step of the way!” - Kai nodded, rolling up the sleeves of his robe. The team started readying up to follow Lloyd.

“I’m afraid you cannot join your friend this time.” - Wu suddenly spoke up.

“What?!” - Cole turned to the protector. - “Why not?”

“If all six of you travel to the other world it might upset its natural balance.” - The old man calmly explained. - “This is something young Lloyd must do alone.”

The group slowly and unsurely stepped back with frowns on their faces. - “This is quite concerning..” - Zane shook his head.

“Time is of the essence.” - Garmadon brought their attention back to the mirror. - “When the moon reaches its peak, the gateway will close. Once it does, you will be trapped there for another twelve moons. You only have three days left until that happens.”

Lloyd took a deep breath. - “Okay. Okay, I’ll do my best.”

“You’ll do great Lloyd!” - Jay cheered him on.

“And we’ll be here waiting for your return.” - Cole smiled in an effort to comfort him.

“Thank you.” - The boy took a deep breath before turning back to the mirror. He gently touched it with his hand, watching as it passed through. The sensation was tingly and left him backing away for a second before taking another deep breath and walking in, closing his eyes.

The last thing he heard was his family and friends wishing him luck.

***

Lloyd thinks he passed out.

It was bright before it was dark and before he knew it he was lying on the ground, asleep.

Lloyd groaned, slowly opening his eyes. He still remembered what happened. He went through the mirror to chase after Morro. And now he was staring up at the blue sky.

Where was he?

He slowly sat up, stiffly looking around. He’s sitting by a.. sculpture on a pedestal. The pedestal was a cube with mirrors on all sides. Mirrors! He looked at his hand before gently bringing it up to the mirror he was sitting by, watching it pass through. This is the same mirror he came from. He hummed in thought, finally looking up at his own reflection.

And almost screamed.

What was he wearing?!

Lloyd quickly scrambled up to his knees, looking himself over. His hair was a bit messier, he had a green zip up hoodie over a black shirt with a golden dragon print on it, some grey jeans that covered half of his sneakers and a green backpack lying by his side.

This does remind him of what he briefly saw Morro wearing under his cape.

He shook his head, standing up to try and get more comfortable in this strange clothing. He’s in the courtyard of a huge blocky building. What weird architecture. He slightly walked forward, reading what was written above the glass doors that he assumed were the entrance.

‘Luora High’

Luora? What was going on??

The blonde looked around one more time before grabbing the empty backpack and making his way towards the building. He had to start his investigation somewhere, right? Lloyd walked up to the glass doors, a bit intimidated to touch it. What if he accidentally breaks them?

Well, there’s an easy solution. He flicked his wrist, using magic to open the door safely—

He walked straight into the still closed door.

“Ow!” - Lloyd jumped back, rubbing his nose. - “What’s going on…” - He raised his hand to try and open the door again. But nothing happened. Now panicking he opened the palm of his hand to try and create a small flame.

It doesn’t work.

His magic is gone!

Lloyd gripped his hair in a panic. Is it because his Element is gone?! Will he ever get his magic back?!

“Okay, okay, calm down…” - He mumbled to himself, trying to take deep breaths. - “Focus on finding Morro and then you can get back home and fix everything!” - He did not want to be here longer than he had to.

So, gently, he pushed the doors open with his hands, looking around. So much empty space… yet the halls are decorated with banners and trophies and such. At first he thought this was a castle but now he’s starting to doubt it. Perhaps this is where Morro would hide his Element?

He’s about to start reading whatever is written on the trophies when a bell suddenly sounds, causing him to jump and cover his ears. - “Huh?!” - Soon the hallways are filled with people. Oh dear.

They’re all people around his age, all loud and talking amongst each other as they move along. It was like being back in school.

School… is this what this is? Is he in a school?

Lloyd tried his best to push through all the people, trying desperately to find some space to actually be able to breathe freely. He’s eventually able to find a corner of the school that’s much less crowded. In fact, it seems almost deserted. He took a deep breath and leaned his back against a locker, closing his eyes to try and clear his head. What does he do? This is a bit much to wrap his head around. He pulled his hoodie over his head, sighing. If only he had his friends…

“I apologise, I didn’t know it was yours.”

Huh? Lloyd opened his eyes at the voice. Someone with a familiar voice was talking. He peeked out from behind the corner, looking down the corridor, effectively eavesdropping.

“I gave it to him because I thought it was the correct thing to do.”

Talking to someone was a tall blonde with blue eyes and neat blonde hair, a sweater over a white button up and a satchel slung over his shoulder.

Zane.

“Well it wasn’t!” - The boy he was talking to had his back turned to Lloyd. - “And I was about to get it until you ruined everything!” - Zane looked away in slight shame at the shorters words. - “You shouldn’t take things that aren’t yours.”

Zane slightly played with his hands. - “It doesn’t really belong to you either…” - He mumbled.

“What did you say?!” - The ravenette stepped closer.

“Nothing.” - Zane waved his hands, trying to put some distance between them.

The other scoffed. - “That’s what I thought. Ugh, it’s no wonder you don’t have any friends, you’re unbearable to even talk to!”

What the hell was this guy's problem? Lloyd grit his teeth before walking up to the pair, arms crossed. - “Don’t talk to him like that.”

The ravenette, who was his height, turned around to glare at Lloyd. - “Excuse me?” - His hair was shoulder length with green streaks through it and he was wearing a dark green shirt under a leather jacket along with some khaki pants. He looked over Lloyd, raising an eyebrow at the hooded boy. - “Do I know you?”

“Does it matter?” - Lloyd pouted. - “You have no right to be so rude.”

The boy took a moment to mull over his words before snorting, waving his hand. - “Ah, I see. You must be new. Word of advice wannabe green saviour.” - He shoved him with his shoulder. - “Stay out of other people's business.”

Lloyd almost yelled after him to call him a coward but he remembered a much more important thing to address. He turned around to the blonde, looking him over. There was no doubt about who this was. - “Are you okay?”

Zane nodded, familiar blue eyes staring at Lloyd. - “I cannot believe you did that.”

“Well, I couldn’t just stand around.” - Especially when it was his friend who was being bullied.

“But nobody stands up to Morro.” - Zane sighed.

“Morro?” - He looked back but the other boy was no longer around. So that was Morro.

“Well, he might’ve been right about one thing.” - Zane pointed out. - “Have you transferred from another school?”

Lloyd blinked. It’s clear this wasn’t his Zane. - “Uh, yes! Yes, I’m new. My name is Lloyd!”

The blonde nodded. - “My name is Zane. It’s lovely to meet you.”

“Yeah, same..” - He shook his head. What was going on? - “Um, so… before, when Morro was talking with you, he said something about you taking things that aren’t yours. He wasn’t talking about a necklace, was he?”

“...how did you know?” - Zane raised his eyebrows in shock.

“Hah– lucky guess?” - He nervously laughed. - “But you don’t have it anymore?” - Zane shook his head. - “But you know where it is?” - Zane nodded.

“This morning I was passing out fliers for the animal shelter.” - Zane brought a hand up to his chin. - “I was standing by the Luora podium when suddenly I tripped over the necklace. It had a green star.” - Lloyd leaned forwards in anticipation. Yes, that’s his! - “I have no clue how it got there. I didn’t want anything to happen to it so I gave it to Principal Wu.”

Lloyd blinked. - “Principal? Is he the ruler here?”

“Um, you could call it that,” - Zane raised an eyebrow. - “Technically he does make the rules here.”

Lloyd blinked owlishly. Everyone he knows in this world is different it seems. - “Where is he now?”

“Most likely in his office.” - Zane gently smiled. - “That would be down the corridor and to the right, third door on your left.”

“Thank you!” - The bell rang again, making Zane jump.

“Oh, I have to go! I’m late to class.” - He gave a quick wave before running off, leaving Lloyd to find the office himself.

The blonde wasted no time finding the room, mulling over everything in his head. This is a world that follows slightly different rules from his own but has people in it that he knows. An alternate universe of sorts. What’s more, he now knows what Morro looks like and where his necklace is. Hopefully, telling Wu that he’s the rightful owner of that piece of jewellery will be enough. Maybe he’ll even be able to go home today!

He smiled at the hopeful thought, stopping by the door that read ‘Principals Office’. This is the place. He knocked on the door, hearing a faint ‘come in’ before pushing the door open and immediately taking a polite bow.

“How may I help you?”

Lloyd paused at the voice of his uncle, looking up. The older man was looking down at some files on his desk, wearing a suit and missing his bamboo hat, instead wearing a regular one. The boy gaped, only shutting his mouth when Wu finally looked up with a questioning glance.

“Um– I– oof,” - He let out a deep breath. - “My name is Lloyd and I’m new here.” - He nervously rested a hand behind his neck. - “I heard that a, um, student named Zane found a necklace this morning and gave it to you.”

Wu nodded, slowly standing up. - “Indeed, he did. I’ve put it away for safekeeping. Not sure how it ended up on the front lawn… why? Were you interested in running for Protector of the Fall Formal this year?”

“Uh, no, not exactly… wait, Protector of the Fall Formal?”

“A humorous title given to a student during Luora High's big Fall dance.” - Wu walked up to a calendar hanging on the wall. - “The students select one of their peers to represent them. They receive their necklace at the Fall Formal.”

Lloyd thought about it for a moment before nodding. Nobody would believe him if he said what his situation was, and why would Wu ever just give the necklace back, especially now that it was being used as a prize? - “Can anybody run?”

“Yes, anybody. You just have to tell the head of the Fall Formals planning committee so he can sign you up.” - Wu turned back to Lloyd. - “Anything else?”

“Um, nope! Thank you so much.” - Lloyd politely smiled, backing out of the office.

“Then good luck, young Lloyd. If you ever need any help my door is always open.”

He nodded, giving one more polite boy before closing the door behind himself, taking a deep breath. Okay, new plan. He has to become a Protector. Ironic, is it not?

***

Lunch time rolled around and it didn’t take him long to figure out where he needed to go. A big hall lined with tables, filled to the brim with students. If you squint you could see the similarities between this place and his actual school…

Lloyd looked around, spotting Zane in the food line. Bingo! Quickly running over the blonde he grabbed a tray, awkwardly standing next to him. - “Um, hi again!”

“Oh, hello Lloyd.” - Zane looked at him. - “How did it go?”

“Good, you could say… I do actually have a question for you. I know we’ve just met but I need your help.” - Zane nodded, listening as he grabbed stuff to eat. - “I’ve decided to run for Protector of the Fall Formal and I—”

“WHAT?!”

He shut up at Zane’s reaction, the boy in question quickly covering his mouth. - “I– I’m so sorry. But please, believe me, running for Protector is an extremely bad idea!”

“Why?” - Lloyd gripped his tray of food, following Zane to a more secluded table.

“Morro always runs for Protector and always wants to win.” - Lloyd raised an eyebrow. Based on what his Wu said about Morro, Lloyd has no doubt he gets some gratification from being called a Protector in this world. - “And when he wants something, he gets it.” - Zane sat down.

Lloyd sat on the other side of the table, facing Zane. - “I have to try.”

“It’s not as easy as just wanting to try,” - Zane shook his head. - “You’d have to convince people to vote for you and oppose Morro. Athletes, fashionistas, drama kids, eco kids, techies, rockers…” - He counted on his fingers.

“Everybodys so separated.” - Lloyd looked around the cafeteria. - “It’s so different from back home.”

“Perhaps your old school was different.” - Zane nodded. - “But here everyone sticks to their own kind.”

Lloyd sighed, leaning on the palm of his hand. - “Wu.. uh, principal Wu said I have to sign up to the head of the Party Planning Committee. Do you know where I can find him?”

Zane paused with his food halfway to his mouth, blinking before looking away with a huff. - “Oh I know where to find him.” - He grumbled.

***

Lloyd gently pushed the doors to the gym open, looking around. This is where Zane said to go… though he didn’t look too pleased about it. The hall was covered in various decorations – balloons, lights, streaks. The tables and chairs were stacked against the wall and the stage was still clearly in the middle of being decorated. It was all so different from back home, even the decorations. Kai was usually the one responsible for decor at his school so clearly this had to be someone else. Then again, Zane didn’t seem like himself. He seemed more anxious, yet a bit bitter. Weird. He wonders if the others—

“Watch out!”

“Huh?” - Lloyd turned around only to be smacked in the face by a balloon that was deflating. Eventually it fell off his face, limply lying on the ground. - “...” - What just happened?

“Sorry!” - The voice that warned him was back. Lloyd noticed someone crouching by a tank marked ‘helium’ with a bunch of balloons all around him. - “I accidentally let go of that one.”

“It’s okay…” - He slowly picked the balloon up, looking it over before walking up to the boy. - “Hey, my name is Lloyd.” - He patiently waited for the other to turn around to him. Now that he’s looking harder, that brunette hair looks familiar. - “I’m looking for the head of the…” - Finally the boy stood up. - “Jay?”

The boy in front of him raised his eyebrows. His hair was less curly than he remembers, he’s missing his orange scarf and his face has fewer freckles. Still, those blue eyes are unmistakable. He was wearing a blue shirt with a creature on it and the writing ‘Pokemon Blue’ under a hoodie. - “A-are you psychic? How do you know my name?”

Lloyd shrugged. - “Uh, I’m not. Unless that’s something that’s possible here.”

“Eh, not usually.” - Jay waved his hand, grabbing the balloon Lloyd was holding and turning around. On the back of his hoodie was a white embroidery of lighting bolts and clouds.

“Well, like I was saying, my name is Lloyd, and Zane told me this was where I’d find the head of the Party Planning Committee for the Fall Formal.”

“Ugh, did he now?” - Jay rolled his eyes, inflating another balloon. - “Don’t let his whole ‘unaware lost boy’ act fool you!” - He stood up, tying the balloon. - “He can be a real meanie!”

Lloyd had to take a step back in shock. - “You two aren’t friends?!”

Jay huffed. - “Who would- who’d want to be friends with someone like him? There’s a reason he’s always alone, you know!” - Lloyd stared at him with his mouth wide open. - “Anyhoo, you really waited till the last moment to sign up! The dance is the day after tomorrow.”

The blonde awkwardly coughed. - “I’m brand new here.”

“Oooh.” - Jay narrowed his gaze at Lloyd. - “That explains how I don’t know your name… but I do recognise you!” - He walked circles around Lloyd. - “Do you happen to have a twin brother who lives in the big city, always wears green and is the exact same height as you?”

“Uh, maybe?” - Lloyd raised his hands in confusion.

“Thought so.” - Jay ran to his backpack, which was lying by the stage, and dug out a clipboard and a pen. - “It’s– here! Just sign your name.”

Lloyd took the clipboard in one hand and the pen in the other. He turned it in his hand, confused, before clicking one end of it. He almost jumped when something popped out of the other. Looking at the paper he slowly pressed the pen against it and drew a scribble. It actually wrote! How was this possible without ink? He stared at the pen in his hand before back at the paper. Morro’s name was written at the very top. Gently, he wrote his own name right under his, before handing the two things back to Jay.

Jay looked over the paper, gasping. - “Wow! You have really neat handwriting! Looks medieval!” - Lloyd awkwardly laughed. He doesn’t know if that was a compliment or not.

The gym doors suddenly opened with a kick of a foot, revealing a boy holding so many plastic crates they covered his entire face. - “Hello! Did somebody order drinks from the president of the baking club?”

“Oh, yes! Yes, yes, just a second!” - Jay threw what he was holding onto the stage before running up to the stacked tables and dragging one lone table out. - “Here!”

The boy walked over to the table and set the crates down, stepping back in relief. Lloyd almost choked on air when he saw who it was. Cole. His hair seemed darker and even a bit longer, falling over his face more. He also seemed a lot less… fit. His brown hoodie was tied at his waist and his shirt was just a plain black one. The only thing that really caught the eye was his long necklace, which Lloyd for a split second thought was an Element of Harmony, but it was just a simple gold chain.

“Oh, I didn’t know you were part of the club.” - Jay hummed, taking out a bottle of apple cider.

“I’m not.” - Cole shrugged, also grabbing a drink and casually opening it. - “They just needed someone strong to bring all this over, so I volunteered.” - He took a sip, looking around the gym before stopping on Lloyd. - “Hey, I know you!”

“You do?” - Lloyd awkwardly shifted in place.

“Yes! You’re the new boy who gave Morro the what-for today!” - He leaned against the wall, chuckling and taking a big swig of the drink.

Jay started setting the tables, not slowing down with his work anytime soon. - “Lloyd here is running against Morro for the Protector of the Fall Formal.” - He hummed.

Cole immediately spat out his drink. - “WHAT?!” - He looked at Lloyd again, wiping his mouth. - “That’s social suicide! Sure, he’ll probably approach you all friendly-like,” - He waved his hands. - “‘Hey there, I’m really looking forward to some friendly competition!’” - Cole mimicked (poorly) Morro’s voice. - “And then boom!” - He slammed his hand on a nearby table, causing the tablecloth to slip off and Jay to groan. - “The backstabbing happens and he destroys the rest of your school social life. There is not a single person you can trust less than Morro. Except maybe for Kai Smith.” - Cole finished his drink, harshly setting it down on the poor, abused table.

“Kai Smith?” - Lloyd's head was spinning.

Cole grit his teeth. - “He’ll promise you things, act like he’s just a poor, innocent boy, and then turn around and pretend like he doesn’t even know you because you’re not good enough for him!” - He crossed his arms, slouching.

“At least he’s not as bad as his sister.” - Jay grumbled, moving the seats around and readjusting the table placements until he was satisfied.

Lloyd winced. This was seriously starting to seem like a personal grudge more than anything. Just what the hell happened? - “Okay.. listen, Cole, thanks for the advice, but I have to do this.”

Cole shook his head, taking a deep breath to calm down. - “Suit yourself. Hey, wait a minute. How do you know my name?” - He raised a suspicious eyebrow.

“Uh..! Haha, didn’t you say?” - Lloyd looked around before turning on his heel. - “Anyways, it was great meeting you guys but I gotta go! See you around!” - He waved while running out of the gym, not bothering to wait for a response.

“Uh-huh. Bye.” - Cole mumbled, tilting his head. - “Weird kid.”

“He’s definitely hiding something. But! I’m onto him.” - Jay took a step back, putting his hands on his hips. - “He’s psychic.”

Cole rolled his eyes. - “And you’re even weirder.”

He was about to turn to leave when the doors to the gym slammed open.

“This looks terrible!” - Morro walked in, followed by his two ‘friends’ – Archer and Bansha. - “This is too many balloons, the colours are vomit inducing, the table covers are tacky!” - The boy walked up to the tables, reaching for one of the drinks. - “Fizzy apple cider? What is this, a hoedown?” - He put the bottle down, looking around with a frown permanently etched onto his face. - “This is my important event! I’ll be becoming a Protector!”

Cole slightly stumbled over his words, standing straight. - “Now just wait a minute. You don’t know if it’s your event.”

“Oh?” - Morro snickered. - “Is that so? Hm, then again, you were homeschooled for the longest time, right? I’m not surprised that you’re not the brightest. Must be why the others say such bad things about you.” - He patted Cole’s shoulder while he passed him, his friends quietly laughing in the background.

Cole’s eye twitched. - “Why you little—”

“Obviously it’s my event! I’m running unopposed.”

“Not this time!” - Jay smirked, holding up the clipboard. - “The new boy just signed up.”

Morro paused before his gaze snapped to Jay. - “What.”

“See– uh, see for yourself!” - Jay passed Bansha the list, keeping his distance from Morro. The ravenette was quick to run up to the girl and rip the clipboard out of her hands, reading over the name a few times. - “Yeah yeah I know, he’s got very specific handwriting.” - Jay waved his hand.

Morro gripped the board. - “Lloyd Garmadon.” - He growled, before looking up at the two. - “Uh– I’m really looking forward to the friendly competition!” - He didn’t look like he was happy one bit. He immediately turned to leave the gym, throwing the clipboard onto a table. Archer and Bansha are quick to follow, looking at each other questioningly.

***

Lloyd wondered when someone would notice that he’s been doing everything but going to classes. It’s fine, he has more important things to worry about. The blonde peeked out of the bathroom when the bell rang, seeing if there were any teachers in sight. - “Zane’s right.” - He sighed. - “I have to figure out a way to get everyone to vote for me. But what can I do? I barely know anything about this world.” - He groaned, walking through the empty corridors. He kept thinking about that writing tool. This world is completely different, way more than he originally assumed. And everyone seemed so mean. It’s the opposite of his first day at Lumina.

He groaned, looking up. Even the lighting here was different. No candles, just these weird rectangles that hurt to stare at for too long. Like picking a chunk of the sun. He wondered if they’re warm to the touch, like a candle. Lloyd kept walking forward, staring at the lights. Eventually he turned the corner and halted. The next light was flickering. Huh. And then the next one was completely off. He finally looked down, noticing the random bits of trash by his feet. This was a dead end. The lockers seem to be slowly covering in rust, the light was flickering, it was even colder here.

“You know what? I’ll admit it.” - Lloyd jumped at the new voice, turning around. Morro. - “I was stupid for not recognising you sooner. Guess I wasn’t expecting you to be so dumb and run after me. Then again, Wu probably didn’t hesitate a second when sending his prized student after my Element.” - Morro crossed his arms, lazily walking around Lloyd.

“It’s my Element.” - Lloyd glared, keeping eye contact with him. - “I earned it.”

“Whatever.” - Morro rolled his eyes. - “This is only a minor setback for me. I mean, you don’t know the first thing about this place!” - Lloyd flinched and Morro just laughed. - “I’m two steps ahead of you!”

Lloyd grimaced. - “Why do you even need my Element in the first place? You already have so much control here.”

Morro suddenly stopped. - “Pop quiz!” - He suddenly stood right in front of Lloyd’s face, making the blonde back up. - “What happens when you bring an Element of Harmony into an alternate world?”

Lloyd stared at him, lips pressed into a thin line. Morro breathes out a surprised laugh.

“You don’t know? Seriously?! Aren’t you supposed to be Wu’s star student? Then again, it must’ve been hard to find someone even half as bright as me after I left Luora.” - Morro rested his hands on his hips. - “It’s a bit embarrassing that his nephew is the best he could do.” - He sighed, pitifully shaking his head. - “You know, if I were you I’d keep my confusion to myself. Improve my acting a bit, you know? Don’t want others to find out that you don’t belong here, now do you?” - He tilted his head, almost a bit too unnaturally.

“I’m going to beat you.” - Lloyd bawled his fists.

“I’m shaking in my boots!” - Morro snorted, leaving the forgotten hallway and Lloyd alone. The blonde doesn’t say anything and Morro can’t help but smile further. He eventually meets Archer and Bansha by the gym doors, grabbing their attention. - “I want you to follow that boy.” - He looked back. - “Bring me something I can use to dehumanise him.”

“You got it!” - Bansha nodded.

Morro folded his hands in thought. - “Once the Elements' power is mine, that stupid boy will be sorry he ever set foot in this world.” - He looked to the side. - “Not like he’d be much safer in Jago.”

“...what’s Jago?” - Archer suddenly asked.

“I– none of your damn business!” - He turned back to the two. - “Why are you still here?! Get to it!”

***

The bell ringing is what made Lloyd finally leave the dark hallway. Morro definitely left an impression with that confrontation. Which just means that… that Lloyd has to prove him wrong! He can fit in! No one will know!

He nodded to himself passing by a box with food before doing a double take. A box with food! He is pretty hungry… through the glass he could see the foods packaged and stacked on shelves. Now, how does he get some of it?

Lloyd looked at the sides, hoping for a door handle. There isn’t one. He gently tapped the glass. The only thing that was separating him from the food. Maybe this is a trial? He took a step back. He doesn’t have magic. But he has legs! Slowly he raised his leg, ready to fight for his food. He’ll do everything he has to to survive!

“Um, excuse me.” - He stopped, turning around to a girl who was trying to get to the box. - “May I?” - He slowly nodded, backing away. The girl took out a few coins, slipped them into the machine and pressed a few buttons. Lloyd watched in amazement when one of the snacks started to move, eventually dropping to the bottom. The girl took it out through a flap with a happy hum, walking away.

Lloyd covered his face with his hands. - “Ugh, who am I kidding. Morro is right, I don’t fit in and it’s obvious…” - He rubbed his eyes with the palms of his hands. - “I need to go back to my roots! Studying!” - He nodded to himself, looking around. - “I need to do research about this world.” - He looked around before suddenly running after the girl. - “Hey! I have a question. Does this school have a library?”

“Huh? Oh, yeah… uh, keep going down this hallway and then to the right. It’s behind the biggest set of doors.” - She awkwardly pointed.

“Thanks!” - He didn’t bother sticking around, quickly making his way towards the library. Indeed, the girl was right. He managed to find the library and marvel at its size. Finally, something familiar.

He slowly walked in, looking around before violently stopping when he saw something unfamiliar. A white box that displayed a screen and a chair right in front of it. He slowly sat down by it, looking down at the rectangle of keys on the table in front of it. They all had letters, numbers and other strange symbols on them.

Lloyd looked around before eventually pressing a key. The letter he pressed came up on screen in a box of its own. - “Wow!” - He pressed another. The same thing happened. - “Maybe this place does have magic.” - He gingerly continued to press the keys. It took him a while to figure out that the ‘Backspace’ gets rid of the letters. However he fails to notice the mouse so he never figures out how to actually click on anything. Eventually he gives up, standing up. That’s fine, he can rely on good old books.

He grabbed as many books as he could, finding a table he can sit by. He made sure it’s as hidden away as possible, though the library was pretty much empty anyway. At one point he took a book out and accidentally knocked a bunch of other books down. The librarian's glare is enough to make him run away to his corner as fast as possible.

Speaking of his corner, there was a big white box there that he didn’t know what to do with. He managed to open the flap on top of it, but instead of a set of keys or a screen he just sees some glass. Lloyd gently tapped it but nothing happened. What did that girl by the food-box do? He looked over the machine before pressing a random button that caused the glass to suddenly flash. - “Ah!” - He covers his eyes, stumbling back before tripping and falling to the ground. - “What the hell…” - He groaned, slowly standing up once his vision cleared up. Hesitantly, yet swiftly, he closed the flap of the box and vowed to never get close to it again.

The only good thing he managed to find is another one of those clicking writing tools. While he was sitting and reading, his free hand was clicking the pen. Nobody bothered him and he didn't look up from his book until a voice sounded throughout the entire library.

“The library will be closing in five minutes. All students are asked to leave.”

Lloyd figured out the voice came from one of the boxes by the ceiling while the announcement repeats in the background. Was he really the last one here? Now that he’s listening, it’s dead quiet, and no one has even walked past his spot.

“Well, it’s not like I have anywhere else to stay.” - He shrugged to himself, standing up to look around for somewhere he could sleep. He decided to pull a beanbag over to his base of operations and found a huge, old map on one of the ‘Geography’ labeled shelves. He sat on the beanbag, draped the map over himself like a blanket and opened his last book of the night. A ‘Yearbook.’ It seemed to be something used to keep a record of things happening in the school. Flipping through the pages he saw pictures of a ton of friends, clubs, competitions.

He eventually reached the ‘Freshmen’ chapter. Turning the pages he only stopped when he saw someone familiar. - “Zane!” - It’s a photo of five kids sitting together on one of the benches outside. Zane is sitting on the far left, smiling politely at whoever took the photo. Next to him was Cole with his arms resting on the back of the bench. They both look much younger. Zane is definitely shorter even when sitting down and Cole’s hair is shorter, and his outfit seems much neater. On the far right of the bench sat Jay, awkwardly smiling with two fingers held up like a ‘v’. His teeth were lined with silver thingies. In the middle was a boy and a girl. The boy had dark hair that seemed to stick out in every direction, hand draped over the girl's shoulders. The girl is framing her face with her hands, and seems to be the only one in uniform. She probably didn’t go to this school when the picture was taken. - “That must be Kai and Nya… haha.” - He’s never seen his friends when they were kids. He knows these aren’t his actual friends, but it was still charming. - “Weird to see Nya with short hair.” - In the picture her dark hair was cut barely above her ears.

“Most likely to continue being friends after school.” - He read the writing under the picture. - “But they aren’t friends anymore… I wonder why.” - He stared at the photo for a few seconds longer before finally slamming the book shut. - “I only have so much time. I can’t concern myself with these people, even if they remind me of my actual friends.” - He sighed, leaning back and closing his eyes. - “Keep your eyes on the prize Lloyd. The Element.”

***

“Students, this is a reminder that you have to put in your votes for the Protector of the Fall Formal by tomorrow night when the dance begins. Make sure your voice is heard!”

“Ugh, shut upp..” - Lloyd groaned at the woman's voice, slowly waking up. The school day was probably starting. He slowly stood up, stretching before cleaning up the mess he made and pocketing the magic writing tool. Thankfully, no one kicked him out of the library during the night and he managed to make his way to the doors without raising suspicions. And, he has a plan.

He has to win over as many people as he can. So he’ll give a speech! Talk about who he is, how much he learned and convince everyone he fits in. Lunch time would probably be the best time to do that. As long as he kept his nerves under control, he could do it. He’s a Protector after all!

“You’ll be fine.” - He smiled to himself, taking a deep breath before finally pushing the doors open and walking out of the library. Being confident is easy! All you have to do is keep your back straight, chin up, and…

Everyone he passed stopped talking and started looking at him before quietly laughing. Lloyd raised his eyebrows. Some people even pointed at him. He hugged himself, shoulders hunching. What’s going on? Is he doing something weird? He bit the nail on his thumb. Why is everyone—

“Whoa!” - Someone suddenly grabbed him and pulled him into an empty classroom, shutting the door. - “What the hell? Who are you?” - He turned to look at the girl who pressed herself up against the door. She was wearing a red maxi skirt and back top with golden hoop earrings. Her hair was a bob, ending right above her shoulders, and her bangs slightly fell over her eyes, clearly in need of trimming. That haircut reminded Lloyd of… - “Nya?”

“Don’t worry! No one will come in here.” - The girl ran up to a window, quickly pulling the blinds down. - “I’m sure we can figure something out by the end of the day. Like a good disguise!” - She nodded to herself, grabbing her bag and digging through it. - “Maybe I can sneak into the theatre kids club room and find something that will make you look unrecognisable.”

“Why would you do that?” - Lloyd took a step back, staring at the girl bewildered.

The doors to the classroom suddenly opened, another familiar face running in. - “Lloyd! There you— oh.” - He stopped when he saw Nya.

The girl groaned, crossing her arms. - “So much for no one coming in here.”

“Excuse me.” - Another new person speaks up from behind Cole. - “I am looking for a blonde boy named– oh, hello Lloyd.” - Zane waved. - “I’ve been looking all over for you.”

“Me too!” - Jay suddenly pushed past Zane, standing in the room. - “I was worried you already went home!”

“Well maybe not everyone likes to run away from their problems.”  - Nya grumbled. - “Not like you’d know anything about that.” - Jay scoffed at her.

“Why wouldn’t he know anything about that?” - Lloyd couldn’t help but ask. Immediately Zane energetically shook his head and Cole made a motion with his hands to shut up. Touchy subject. - “Uh, you know what, never mind. Why were you all looking for me? What’s going on?”

“Oh, you haven’t seen it yet.” - Zane covered his mouth, worried.

The others awkwardly look at each other, realisation also dawning on them.

“Seen what?” - Lloyd hugged himself.

“Uh…” - Jay put his backpack on one of the desks and pulled out his laptop while motioning for Lloyd to sit down. - “It isn’t- uh, it’s not that bad!” - He looked something up before turning to screen for everyone to see.

A video started, showing Lloyd by the computer. - “This is Lloyd Garmadon. And he wants to be your Fall Formal Protector.” - Morro was talking over the video that showed just how bad the boy struggled with the keyboard. - “But what does it say about our school if we give someone like this…” - In the video Lloyd had knocked down a bunch of books. - “..such an important role?” - And now him by the printer, stumbling back from the flash. The video stopped on his face, where he’s making a very unflattering expression.

Lloyd stared at the video, mouth wide. The others stared at him, a bit too scared to say anything. - “Um.. I take it back. It’s bad.” - Jay finally mumbled, getting hit over the head by Nya.

“...I don’t get it.” - Lloyd breathed out, covering his face with his hands. - “This all happened yesterday! Has everyone seen this?!” - He looked at the four, tears threatening to fall. They all awkwardly stumble over their words, not wanting to cause the blonde to actually cry. - “What am I going to do?! No one will vote for me after this!” - He gripped his hair, sliding down his seat.

“If it makes you feel better, I’ll still vote for you.” - Zane leaned down to Lloyd, putting a hand on his shoulder. - “You were so nice to stand up for me.” - He smiled. Lloyd slammed his forehead on the desk.

“If you still want to run, maybe I can do something to help?” - Jay raised his hand. - “I am the head of the Party Planning Committee after all!”

Zane scowled, grip slightly tightening on Lloyd’s shoulder. - “Word of advice,” - He leaned down to Lloyd, mumbling. - “Don’t accept his help. He’s a very bad team player.” - That caused Lloyd to look up, staring at Zane in shock.

Jay’s expression mirrored his. - “What?! Why do you have to be so awful to me?!”

“Oh, don’t play innocent!” - Nya pointed at Jay. - “You are no better than Zane is!”

“What’s that supposed to mean?!” - Jay yelled.

Nya waved him off. - “Lloyd, I am happy to offer my help too! Especially to someone who could appreciate my presence!”

“How dare you–”

“I beg to differ–”

The three started arguing, talking over each other with Lloyd in the middle. - “Um- hey–” - He raised his hands, getting ignored.

“Guys!” - Cole suddenly yelled, making everyone stop and look at him. The ravenette was sitting on one of the desks, looking unimpressed. - “Get over it already, jeez.” - He rolled his eyes.

Nya laughed, crossing her arms. - “Oh yeah? Just like how you ‘got over’ what happened with Kai?”

Cole glared. - “Kai said he’d show up at my birthday, my first real one ever. Then he never showed up and I got stood up! That is different!”

“It’s not!” - The other three yelled at the same time.

Cole got off the desk and started arguing with them too, now all four of them ten times louder. Lloyd rubbing his temples, unable to pick out a single person's full sentence. These people… these complete, absolute–

“SHUT UP!” - He slammed his hands on the desk, glaring up at everyone. - “Can a guy not even cry in peace after being completely humiliated?! You’re all fucking idiots! Yelling over one another doesn’t do anything except give me a headache!” - He leaned down to his backpack, unzipping it. - “I want to show you something.” - He took a deep breath before taking out the Yearbook. He was supposed to put it back but he couldn’t. That picture of his friends… he can’t stop thinking about it. - “Look. You were friends once.” - He flipped through the pages, stopping on the one with the photo of the five of them.

Cole leaned over his shoulder first. - “Oh.. Freshmen Fair. Do you guys remember?”

“Yeah.” - Nya smiled. - “I was in my last year of middle school. Skipped classes just to hang out with you guys.” - She laughed at the memory. - “I got in so much trouble after that!”

“Something happened though.” - Lloyd crossed his arms. - “And call this a stretch, but I wouldn’t be surprised if that something was Morro.”

“That is a theory, but it’s nothing more than that.” - Zane shook his head. - “Morro had nothing to do with us.”

“Exactly.” - Nya nodded. - “Morro isn’t the one that ruined my first real competition by bringing firecrackers and burning my outfit! I ended up not being able to compete!” - She hugged herself. - “That athletic wear was the most expensive thing I owned. Yet I guess that doesn’t matter for someone like Jay.”

Lloyd gawked while Jay stumbled over his words. - “What are you talking about?! Okay, I brought the firecrackers, but I never even got close to your stuff! And it’s not like I was the only one who brought things. It was a big event!”

“Left by my clothes were the same ones you used! And besides, you messaged me later about it!” - Nya took out her phone, holding it up. - “You said it didn’t even matter because it’s not like I had a chance at winning anyway!”

“Huh?! I would never say that!” - Jay took a step back. - “You blocked me before I could send you anything!”

“I blocked you after you sent that because I didn’t even want to talk to you.” - Nya stopped yelling, looking down at her phone.

“What about those emails?” - Zane suddenly spoke up. - “I sent a few of them to Jay, volunteering to help with decorations. But I always get a reply saying he doesn’t need my help because he already had plenty of volunteers and he wouldn’t want my help anyways. I stopped asking after a while, some of the things said were extremely hurtful.” - Zane folded his hands, looking down. - “But the strange thing is I find out after an event is done that Jay had to do everything alone.”

“I never sent either of you anything!” - Jay raised his hands. - “And you know I’m always open to working with people! Though that hasn’t happened in.. well, since our first year. I once asked someone if they wanted to help and they told me that after what I sent them they didn’t even want to see me. I never found out what they were talking about.”

“You don’t think… someone was sending things from your account, pretending to be you but meaner?” - Nya hesitantly suggested.

“I don’t know…” - Jay sat down and brought his laptop close, looking up his own account.

“Maybe he’s the reason Kai never showed up to my birthday.” - Cole thought out loud.

“Did you ever ask Kai why he didn’t show up?” - Lloyd tilted his head.

Cole sucked in a deep breath, looking away. - “We got into a fight about it. And then we stopped talking to each other.”

“I remember asking Kai about it.” - Nya mumbled. - “He didn’t tell me anything but… it was the first time I had seen him crying. I guess I have been too scared to talk to him about anything serious in a while. We have drifted apart quite a bit.”

Lloyd sighed, walking up to Cole and putting a hand on his shoulder, smiling. - “You know, now may be a good time to talk to him and ask about it.”

Cole ran a hand through his hair, nodding. - “Might be.”

***

“He usually hides away at the back of the school. I know he’s been skipping classes a lot more recently.” - Nya led them to the backyard, towards the football field. - “He might be at the bleachers.”

Cole was walking next to Nya, trying to keep his breathing under control, while Lloyd, Zane and Jay walked behind them. - “So, you and Kai got into a fight?”

The two next to Lloyd tensed up and even Nya glanced back at him worriedly. - “...yeah.” - Cole sighed. - A pretty bad one. I said a lot of really awful things.” - He groaned. - “I mean he did too, but I’m the one who started it.”

They stopped by the field, looking around for the missing brunette. - “He might also be somewhere else…” - Nya started, worried they’re wasting time.

“There!” - Lloyd pointed to the bleachers. In the furthest corner, hunched over a book, was Kai. His hair was less messy than in the freshman photo and he was wearing a red zip up hoodie with white stripes. It was falling off his shoulder and Lloyd couldn’t help but think of his friends back home. They’re all waiting for him. Slowly he lowered his hand, mood souring.

Everyone turned to look at Cole, who seemed to have a hard time moving. Jay awkwardly cleared his throat, pushing everyone but Cole out of the way. - “Hey, so we’ll be waiting for you here, okay? Okay!” - The four ran to the bleachers, sitting down and waving encouragingly to Cole.

The boy sighed, finally making his way to Kai. They watched as Cole tapped his shoulder and Kai looked up, surprised, and then slowly nodded at something Cole said, the ravenette sitting down next to him.

“Okay, good. They’re talking.” - Zane nodded.

Cole was the one who started talking first, seemingly explaining something. Kai sat quietly and listened, even putting away his book, which Lloyd quickly realised was actually a sketchbook with how there were so many pages sticking out of it.

“They’re not yelling… yet.” - Nya was scraping off her red, chipped nail polish out of nervousness.

Finally Kai talked, making a lot of motions with his hands. He even stood up at some point, seemingly presenting his side of the story. Cole listened to him intensely, at times shaking his head and even covering his mouth in shock. Eventually he stood up and the two hugged.

“Hugs! Those are always good!” - Jay cheered.

The two walked off the bleachers and towards the group, Cole waving to them with a relieved smile on his face. - “Hey! Guess what?” - They stop under the seats the four were sitting on. - “Somebody messaged Kai as me saying the date got moved, so he showed up to our meetup spot, which was empty. And then I yelled at him later that day…” - Cole rested his hand against his forehead. - “Miscommunication at its finest, as well as identity theft!”

“I checked my emails.” - Jay nodded. - “Most emails sent from my account were deleted but I managed to dig some up. I don’t think Lloyd’s theory is a theory anymore.”

Lloyd looked at everyone with a relieved smile on his face. - “I’m glad we’re getting to the root of this.”

“So, you want to dethrone Morro.” - Kai suddenly pointed at Lloyd, grinning. - “And become the Protector this year, huh?” - Lloyd sheepishly nodded. - “Can’t say I wouldn’t love to see that happen!” - Kai readjusted the bag strap on his shoulder, laughing. - “Yeah, I’ll totally help you out. On one condition. You have to convince me why I should vote for you.”

“Huh? Uh…” - Lloyd nervously looked around at everyone, searching for an escape or maybe some backup. However, no one said anything. - “Well–”

“I mean, you can’t just expect me to vote for one or the other. I need to know that you are worthy.” - Kai raised his eyebrows. - “The Protector should be kind, determined and somebody who could be a good friend.”

Lloyd stared at the boy before suddenly standing up, taking a deep breath. - “Because I can be all that! I know it’s a responsibility, I know it’s difficult, I know there’s so many people who have high expectations of me… but I know that I will try my best. I know I can persevere and fight for my friends and I know I’m willing to sacrifice a lot for them. I may be a little lost, I may be still learning how the world works, but I promise I am nothing short of a good person who can grow and change! And I... believe in myself.”

The others watched him, clearly not expecting a whole speech. Eventually Kai burst out laughing. - “This is a school title not a king's vow!” - He giggled. - “You’re taking this so seriously… alright. What’s the plan?”

Lloyd slowly smiled. - “You’ll really help me?”

“Of course I will. I was always going to. I mean, you did bring all of us together.” - Kai motioned around them. - “I was just teasing you.”

Lloyd blinked before laughing too and jumping down to hug the brunette. - “Thank you, thank you!”

“Woah! Of course!” - Kai hugged back, ruffling the blonde’s hair.  -”Now come on, I seriously want to know how we’re going to beat Morro’s sorry ass.”

***

“I am sorry for the mess, I- hah, I wasn’t expecting guests.” - Jay chuckled, throwing his backpack to the side and making room on his bed. Lloyd was the last one to walk in, awestruck by the house. Jay was the one who suggested his place as their base of operations and Lloyd was once again reminded that he truly doesn’t know anything about this world.

The brunette's room barely resembled one, except for the bed, closet and few shelves with books and figurines. His desk took up the two entire walls and any free space was taken up by shelves that reached the ceiling, stacked with boxes and random trinkets. Any empty space on the walls was covered in posters or notes.

“Is it just me, or is there like twice as many shelves in here  since last time?” - Kai did a quick spin to look around before flopping onto the bed.

“You haven’t been here in a while.” - Jay shrugged, sitting down on his desk chair. Lloyd couldn’t help but marvel when the seat spinned.

Nya joined her brother and Cole sat down on the ground by the bed. Zane was interested in looking at the books Jay owned. Lloyd walked up to his desk, gently touching something metallic before taking it into his hands and looking it over.

“It’s a head for my little robot.” - Jay explained, grabbing Lloyd’s attention. - “But I messed it up so it’s useless. At least for now.”

“Robot?” - Lloyd whispered to himself, slowly putting the object down.

“Alright guys, we need to come up with something.” - Cole clapped his hands. - “The dance is tomorrow after school and we still don’t know how to get Lloyd his votes.”

“Right now all they know Lloyd as is the version of him from Morro’s video.” - Zane nodded, earning a groan from Lloyd. - “We need to show everyone what he’s really like.”

Everyone hummed, trying to come up with something. Suddenly Kai stood up. - “I got it!” - He grabbed his bag, fishing out his sketchbook. - “Remember freshman year? On the last day we all wore the same piece of clothing.” - He flipped through the book, ignoring how many papers flew out of it. Thankfully, Cole was gathering them up. - “Cloaks. As a sign of unity. Yeah it was corny but it was endearing!” - He turned the sketchbook around and showed everyone the drawing. - “It was also the first thing I ever fully designed on my own. I still have a few cloaks stuffed somewhere in the closet, I’m sure. I can patch them up before bed and bring them tomorrow.”

Nya took the sketchbook out of her brother's hands, looking it over. - “Morro divided us and Lloyd united us. It’s symbolic.”

Lloyd walked up to look closer with Nya, gently smiling. - “I was planning on giving a speech… maybe this will enhance it?”

“Lunchtime is the best time to do it. That’s where almost everyone will be at the same time.” - Cole stood up, giving Kai the stray papers. - “Let’s give it everything we got and win everyone over in one fell swoop!”

***

Without arousing too much suspicion Lloyd managed to convince Jay to let him stay over. He barely had to ask, Jay’s mother welcomed him with open arms, ecstatic. Lloyd realised he actually never met any of his friends' parents, seeing as they lived in dorms. All he knew was that Cole and Zane didn’t have mothers, and he was also fairly sure Kai and Nya didn’t have parents at all. He should ask about that when he’s back.

Yes, he will come back. He’s actually feeling pretty good about this, even while being extremely nervous.

Lloyd sat down with Zane again during lunch, both of them wearing the cloaks. They were nowhere near as good as the ones from back home but they certainly did the job. They even had the school logo on them. Lloyd kept looking around, finding his friends.

Cole was standing in line for the food. He made eye contact with Lloyd and gave him an encouraging thumbs up. Kai was sitting with the fashionistas for the sake of blending in and Jay and Nya were sitting together with the techies, whispering to each other.

“It’s now or never.” - Zane spoke up, grabbing Lloyd’s attention.

“Right…” - He looked around once more before giving Cole a thumbs up back.

The ravenette slammed his tray on the counter a few times to grab people's attention, clearing his throat. - “Hello everyone!” - He moved away from the line. - “I just need a few minutes of your time. Our Fall Formal dance is happening tonight!” - A lot of people nodded and whispered, though everyone was listening to him. - “We have two candidates. But I don’t want you to vote too hastily! The Protector should be someone…”

“Someone kind!” - Kai stood up, finishing Cole’s sentence with a grin. - “Someone who can bring people together. Like us!” - He slightly showed off the cloak he was wearing. - “We thought we were different like night from day, but we can still be good friends and care for each other!”

“And it’s thanks to Lloyd Garmadon!” - Nya stood up with Jay, waving to grab everyone's attention. - “And now we want to work together to give Lloyd the title of Protector.”

Zane also stood up. - “He helped us see all we can be. After years of unwarranted hate, which I’m sure a lot of you have also experienced, I think it’s time for something new.” - He pointed to Lloyd. - “Right?”

Now everyone was dead silent, staring at Lloyd. He took a deep breath and slowly stood up, trying to hide his shaking hands. - “Um, hello.” - He sheepishly started. - “I… want to be myself. And yes, that does mean also being clumsy at times or making mistakes. But everyone does!” - He bawled his fists, looking over every student. - “And whoever says they don’t aren’t being true to themselves! We’re all different, we all make mistakes, but we can all come together. Isn’t working together this school's pride?” - He read through the entire Yearbook. Luora High's main message was always ‘Friendship is Magic’. - “If you follow me I promise to bring that pride back. We should be working together, unified, not dividing ourselves!”

Silence was all that met him when he finished talking. His shoulders started slumping, regret washing over him. Was this a failure? Is he really going to lose to Morro?

Cole was the first one to clap.

He was followed by Kai, then Nya, Jay and Zane, and then everyone else. Lloyd raised his head again, looking at everyone as they clapped for him, even cheered. He smiled in relief, hand resting over his heart. It was beating out of his chest. Zane tapped his shoulder, nodding his head towards the exit and Lloyd nodded back, following him out. The rest of his friends followed soon after, cheering.

“That went great!” - Jay jumped, clapping.

“It sure did.” - Kai nodded. - “I think that, combined with everyone's dislike of Morro, will be enough to ensure that you win!”

Lloyd chuckled. - “Yeah, it was a great idea!” - People were starting to leave the cafeteria, some offered Lloyd smiles and assured nods. Lloyd smiled back at them, standing to the side. Suddenly someone shoved past him with their shoulder, causing him to stumble. He turned around to see Morro and his two friends. The ravenette glanced back at Lloyd before unexpectedly smirking and walking away. - “What was that about?”

“No clue.” - Nya glared. - “He has nothing to be smug about, he’s going to lose!”

“I have a very bad feeling that Morro isn’t done fighting.” - Zane frowned.

“Well he isn’t going to slow us down!” - Jay huffed, making his way to the gym with the others following. - “I am almost done with the decor, I only need to organise the food and drinks a bit more. It’s going to be a dance like no other!”

“I can’t wait.” - Nya nodded, smiling dreamily. - “I haven’t yet seen your work. Can I?”

“Sure!” - Jay grinned. - “I think I did very well, considering this was a one-man job.” - He pushed the doors to the gym open, walking in. - “Actually if you guys helped me I’m sure we could wrap everything up in under a–AAH!!”

Jay gripped his hair when he saw the state of the gym. Everything was ruined. Decorations were torn down, balloons were popped, even the tables were knocked over and food and drinks were spilled. Jay stumbled back to a wall, slowly sliding down it in despair.

“How could this happen?!” - Cole looked around with the others, all of them equally shocked. - “The dance is tonight!”

“I don’t understand…” - Jay hid his face in his hands. - “It was fine yesterday!”

“We have to get principal Wu.” - Zane pointed out. - “I can go.”

“I’ll go with you.” - Kai grabbed Zane’s arm, dragging the other outside.

Lloyd stared at the destruction a little longer before turning back to Jay and crouching next to him. - “Don’t worry, we’ll figure something out.” - He placed a hand on the boy's shoulder.

When Jay looked up Lloyd was almost shocked to see him crying. - “I- I can’t believe someone would do that to my- to my hard work…”

“It’s awful and we’ll make sure whoever did this pays!” - Nya assured him, furious about the whole mess.

“It’s hopeless, we’ll never find who actually did all this.” - Jay rubbed his eyes.

“Isn’t it obvious?” - Cole raised an eyebrow. - “Who else but Morro!”

“And do you have any proof of that?!” - Jay suddenly shouted, shoulders dropping when he’s met with silence. - “Exactly.”

The gym doors opened and Zane and Kai ran in with Wu, who was similarly shocked. - “Why this is truly awful… do you know who could have done this?”

Lloyd opened his mouth but Jay gently shoved him, shaking his head. So he stayed quiet. Jay is right, they don’t have proof. And it would only cause more trouble than it’s worth.

Wu sighed at the lack of response, walking further into the gym. - “Such a mess cannot be fixed in a few short hours. I suppose we’ll have to, sadly, postpone the dance till Monday.” - He turned around. - “I must inform the rest of the school and then I’ll be back to take care of this. If you’ll excuse me.” - Kai held the door for him as the old man left.

“Postponed?” - Jay finally stood up with Lloyd, almost just as sad about the change of date as he was about his work being ruined. - “We’ll have to wait the entire weekend! Who knows what else Morro will do.”

Lloyd’s eyes suddenly widened. - “Oh no. No no no no no no no! The entire weekend?!” - He took a step back.

“Um, yes? Lloyd, what’s wrong?” - Cole walked up to him but Lloyd suddenly turned around and ran out of the gym. - “Lloyd!”

Three days. He only had three days! Today is his last day! What can he do?! Lloyd ran to the library, thankfully no one else was there, stumbled over his feet before ending up in his corner. He sat down and brought his knees up, hiding his face in them. What can he do…

“Time is of the essence. When the moon reaches its peak, the gateway will close. Once it does, you will be trapped there for another twelve moons.”

What would he do if he were back home?

“Lloyd! Where are you?!” - He heard Nya’s voice, followed by the others.

He would seek out help from his friends.

Lloyd slowly looked up, taking deep breaths. He has to tell them. He has to tell them what’s really at stake.  They’re still his friends. And he doesn’t mean that they’re his friends because he knows their version from back home. Lloyd wants to believe they’re actually friends.

“Lloyd!” - Kai ran up to him, being the first to find him. - “Lloyd, what’s going on?”

The blonde slowly stood up, watching the others catch up and stand around him. - “...the Fall Formal has to happen tonight.”

Zane worriedly tilted his head. - “Why?”

Lloyd looked down at his hands. - “...you see—”

Jay suddenly cut him off. - “You’re from an alternative world where magic is real and you’re the new Protector of that world and the necklace that’s supposed to be given at the dance actually has a magical Element embedded in it that helps power up all the other Elements and without it they don’t work anymore and you need it back to help protect your own magical world and if you don’t get your necklace back by tonight you’ll be stuck in this world and won’t be able to get back to your own world for a really, really long time!”

Everyone stared at Jay, especially Lloyd, whose jaw was on the ground. Cole awkwardly scratched his neck. - “Yeah, I’m pretty sure that’s not it. This isn’t really the time for jokes.”

“No, he’s actually spot on.” - Lloyd furrowed his eyebrows at Jay. - “How did you..?”

“Just a hunch.” - Jay shrugged.

“Wait, wait, wait.” - Kai waved his hands. - “Back up. You’re from a different universe where magic is real and you’re a ‘Protector’? What?”

“Mhm.” - Lloyd slowly nodded, looking over everyone's shocked faces.

“And you came here to retrieve your necklace. Because it has magic.” - Zane narrowed his gaze.

“Mhm…”

Nya suddenly grabbed his hands, holding them up. - “That is so awesome!”

Lloyd stared at her. - “...it is?”

She furiously nodded. - “Of course! It actually explains a lot. That’s why you’re so awkward!”

“Um.. yes.” - He looked to the side. - “You actually believe me?” - He tilted his head to look at the other four.

Cole shrugged. - “Why would you lie about this? Especially after the whole freak out…”

“So you’ll help me?!” - Lloyd stepped back from Nya. - “Please. I need to get home tonight!”

“Of course we will.” - Zane looked surprised that Lloyd was even asking. - “I don’t think you’d lie after campaigning so hard to be the Protector.”

Lloyd looked at Kai. - “Even you?”

Kai raised his eyebrows. - “I have no reason not to.”

Lloyd grinned, hugging everyone one by one. - “Thank you! Oh, thank you so much!” - Jay was the last one and Lloyd gripped his shoulders after hugging him. - “We need to fix the gym.”

Jay nodded, grabbing Lloyd's hand and running out of the library.

***

Lloyd let out a deep breath at the sight of the gym again. - “I can’t believe they’d do all this.”

“Truly evil.” - Nya nodded. - “Where do we even start?”

“There’s six of us.” - Jay walked towards the closet next to the stage, bringing out a set of brooms. - “Let’s split up. Me and Lloyd will sweep.” - He threw the broom, Lloyd barely catching it. - “Nya and Kai will throw away all the other trash. Since Cole and Zane are the tallest, they’ll help put everything back up! What do you all say?”

Everyone nodded, and once given the signal by Jay ran off to do their individual tasks. After all, they were on a very tight time limit. Thankfully, neither of them minded skipping a few classes for the sake of the gym. Kai and Nya were running in and out from the gym while throwing away the trash, causing a few students to curiously peel into the gym.

Lloyd was pleasantly surprised when a girl he never talked to before grabbed a broom too. - “Can we help?”

“Of course!” - He smiled as the girl called over her own group of friends.

The same happened with Cole once a group saw he was throwing streamers at the ceiling beams, missing quite a lot. Thankfully the others had better aim.

More and more students started pouring in and offering help, giving the group a lot of hope. Lloyd even spotted principal Wu peeking in, smiling under that beard of his. The blonde walked up the stairs to the stage, looking over everyone. The room was really coming together.

“This looks even better than before!” - Lloyd jumped when Jay appeared next to him out of seemingly nowhere, the brunette watching with a grin on his face. - “I’m so happy that everyone is helping. This is all I wanted.”

Lloyd smiled too, putting a hand on his shoulder. - “You don’t have to do everything alone anymore.”

Someone clapping caused everyone to stop and turn towards one of the doorways, looking at principal Wu. The older man nodded to Lloyd approvingly before clearing his throat. - “Everyone! Whilst I do not condone skipping classes…” - A few students sheepishly chuckled. - “I am willing to overlook that due to everyone's teamwork. The Fall Formal is back on for tonight!” - Everyone cheered, including the main six. Wu set down a box he was holding on a table, designated for everyone to put their votes in.

Jay nudged Lloyd. - “I don’t know about you, but I know who I’m voting for.” - He jumped down the stage with a laugh, joining the others in line.

Lloyd smiled, sitting down on the edge of the stage in relief. He wasn’t in any hurry now. All he had to do was hope for the best in winning his necklace.

“Lloyd!” - The blonde looked down at Kai who was standing by the stage. - “I have a question… since you don’t exactly have a home.” - He awkwardly coughed. - “Do you even have anything to wear for tonight?”

“Isn’t what I have on right now enough?” - He raised his eyebrows. Kai shook his head.

“Presentation is everything! How about you drop by my house? My parents won’t mind. And I’m sure I can get you something done before the dance!”

“You have parents?”

“Yes?” - Kai gave him a concerned look. - “Why did you ask like that?”

“No reason!” - He jumped down the stage next to Kai, smiling. - “Sure, I’d be happy to.”

***

Lloyd was amazed by cars. Kai’s parents, who were lovely people, offered to drop them off at the school again. So, Lloyd arrived with Kai and Nya. And Kai wasn’t lying about getting him something to wear. A white button up with a pair of bell jeans and even a nicer pair of shoes. Lloyd insisted on keeping the hoodie on though. He grew attached to it, what can he say?

Nya was wearing a red dress, with gold embroidery and a black blouse over it. Kai was in a dark red suit, also with gold details and a black shirt. The siblings decided they wanted to match.

The other three were waiting in front of the school, waving at them. Jay’s formal wear was a bit shaggy, too big on him and obviously from his father. Zane was wearing a light blue vest and white pants. But by far the best dressed was Cole in a black and white tuxedo, finished off with a bowtie. Kai laughed when he saw him, earning an embarrassed blush.

“My dad made me wear it!” - Cole tried explaining.

Lloyd kept looking around at all the students arriving. - “Has anyone seen Morro?”

“Nope.” - Jay shrugged. - “And I’ve already been inside.”

“Maybe he was too embarrassed to show up.” - Kai snickered.

Lloyd didn’t look convinced but the six still made their way to the gym, immediately greeted with loud music and colourful lights. Lloyd could let his worries wash away for now and push down his nerves about winning, and instead marvel at the technology surrounding him.

His friends waste no time pulling him in to dance, teaching him a few dances they liked in their world. Lloyd laughed as he watched them, thinking they were absolutely ridiculous.

Eventually the music quieted down and the lights focused on the stage. Wu walked up to the mic, envelope in hand. - “Good evening everyone. I would like to start off by saying how wonderful everything looks tonight. You all did a magnificent job of fixing the earlier unfortunate ruin. But now, without further ado, I would like to announce this year's Fall Formal Protector.” - He held up the envelope as well as the necklace.

Nya shook Lloyd’s shoulders in excitement while he held his breath, staring at the glimmering Element.

“The Protector is none other than…” - Wu opened the envelope, smiling in delight. - “Lloyd Garmadon!”

Everyone erupted in cheers and Lloyd beamed, running up to the stage. Standing in front of Wu he shook his hand before getting the necklace gently placed around his neck. His hand immediately went up to the star pendant, smiling down at his friends who were by far the loudest. - “Thank you so much!” - He looked over the school, smile faltering when he didn't see Morro around. Maybe Kai was right.

Or maybe not. He spotted a duo in the crowd near the doors. Archer and Bansha caught eye-contact with him, and Bansha gave him a smug smile and a little wave. Lloyd frowned in confusion. The two looked at each other before running out of the room. Something wasn’t right.

“I-I’m sorry, please excuse me!” - He suddenly ran down the stage and pushed through the confused crowd, following the two. His friends called after him, looking at each other before following, suspecting this probably had something to do with Morro.

Lloyd ran out of the school and followed them to the statue, only stopping once he saw Morro with a grin and a hammer in his hands next to the portal. - “That’s close enough!” - He raised the weapon, ready to break the mirror. - “Take one more step and your way home will be gone!”

“Don’t!” - Lloyd did in fact not get closer, putting his arms out to stop his friends. - “Don’t break it.”

“I won’t.” - Morro hummed. - “If you give me the Element. Or you can keep it.” - He raised the hammer higher. - “And never return!”

Lloyd immediately gripped his pendant, taking a step back. - “You can’t do this! It was your home too!”

“Of course I can! You think I care about that worthless world anymore?!” - Morro growled. - “Tick-tock, Protector. We haven’t got all damn night. After all, the portal will be closing in less than an hour!” - He looked up to the moon.

Lloyd followed his gaze before looking down at his Element. - “...no.” - He took a deep breath. - “No. You are not getting this Element.”

His friends gasped behind him and even Morro lowered his weapon in shock. - “What?! Your home. Your friends! All lost to you forever!” - He gripped the hammer. - “Are you blind?! Don’t you know what I’m going to do to the portal?!”

“I do know.” - He glared. - “But I have seen what you’ve been able to do here without magic. I cannot let you cause despair with it! Jago will find a way to survive without me. This world won’t.” - He finally took a step forward. - “So go on. Do it.”

Morro choked out a few sounds in an effort to find something to say to him. Eventually though, the heavy hammer rested against his shoulder and he shut his mouth, standing straight. - “Fine. You win.” - He let the hammer fall to the ground behind him, much to everyone's surprise. - “Aren’t you special. Sooo special.” - Morro crossed his arms, nails digging into his skin through his clothing. - “Such a good Protector.” - He sneered before suddenly lunging at Lloyd, knocking him to the ground. - “You bitch!”

Lloyd screamed, kicking him in the stomach. Morro just grit his teeth as he scratched at the boy's neck, trying to rip the necklace off. - “S-stop!” - Lloyd tried to push the others face away with his hands, chain digging painfully into the back of his neck.

The other five tried to jump in and help pull Morro off but Bansha grabbed the hammer and ran up next to the struggling duo, holding it up dangerously, ready to swing at the five if they got too close.

“That power belongs to me!” - Morro yelled, knee digging into Lloyd’s chest. - “Wu promised me that! I was supposed to be the next Protector!” - He twisted the chain, choking him.

“What?!” - Lloyd’s hands went to the necklace, trying to pull it away from his neck. - “Wh-what are you saying?!” - Morro twisted and yanked the chain again, and Lloyd realised if he were to keep this up he’d pass out. Shakily his hands go to the back of his necklace to get it off. The second it was open Morro pulled it away, falling backwards to the ground. Lloyd took the opportunity to take a few deep breaths before jumping at the boy, aiming for the Element.

Morro kicked him with both feet in the chest, leaving Lloyd a coughing mess, bringing his knees up in pain. - “Okay, enough is enough!” - Cole suddenly lunged at Bansha, knocking the weapon out of her hand. Seeing the path towards the two was clear, Nya ran to Morro and pushed him down to the ground again, ripping the Element out of his hand and accidentally throwing it across the front lawn. Archer ran to pick it up, only to get tripped up by Jay. Kai managed to grab the necklace.

“Lloyd!” - He waved to grab the boy’s attention, running towards him before Archer grabbed his foot and harshly pulled him to the ground, making him drop the Element once more. Zane picked it up just as Bansha shoved Cole off of herself and perfectly onto Zane, making the boy stumble. She snatched the Element and turned on her heel to Morro, only to be faced with a punch to the face from Lloyd. He grabbed his necklace and tried to run away, Archer hot on his heel.

“Someone, catch!” - He yelled desperately, throwing his Element towards his friends. Nya’s hands were open ready to catch it, but Morro kicked her in the back and caught it instead, scrambling up to his feet and backing away.

“Finally!” - He growled, a manic look in his eyes as he held the necklace up to his neck. - “More power than I could ever imagine!” - He laughed, putting it around his neck. Lloyd and his friends stood back in fear, panting heavily from the fight. Bansha and Archer were standing to the side, also trying to pick themselves back up. - “Finally mine.”

The second it was secure on his neck the green star burst with light, surrounding the ravenette. Morro slightly stumbled on his feet from the power, looking around himself. Even his eyes started glowing. Slowly the emerald green colour of the Elements magic turned muddled and dark, lifting Morro off of his feet. A ring of fire appeared around him, bursting into a beam and lifting him further up. All they could see inside the beam was Morro’s silhouette painfully gripping his hair and screaming. Students from the school started slowly looking outside due to the commotion, all backing up when they saw the scene in front of them.

The beam finally thinned out, leaving a floating figure of… a demon.

Morro laughed maniacally. His hands were turned into claws, his limbs were unnaturally long, his hair stood on its ends like the green fire. Behind him sprouted black wings, keeping him afloat.

The students started screaming when they saw him, spilling out of the school in an attempt to run away. Morro turned towards them with a devilish grin, putting his hands together to create a green orb before aiming it at all the students. The green magic passes through them, not hurting them, but making them stand still with a hollow look in their eyes, all green. - “I am your Protector now! You will all be loyal to me!”

“Stop it!” - Morro rolled his eyes at Lloyd’s shout, turning around to face the puny human again.

“You know, I was bluffing about destroying the portal.” - The demon shrugged. - “After all, I don’t want to rule over just some stupid High School! I want what Wu has! It was promised to me.” - He pointed at Bansha and Archer. - “Round my army at the portal!”

Lloyd dug his nails into the palms of his hands. - “You’re not taking over Jago!”

“Please!” - Morro flew down to the ground in front of Lloyd. - “You think you can stop me without even the tiniest bit of magic?! You have nothing!”

“He has us!”

Lloyd turned around to look at his friends who were still conscious and aware. Kai was the one who yelled at Morro, but all the others around him shouted in agreement.

“Gee, aren’t you all intimidating?” - Morro groaned. - “Step aside idiots!” - He put his hands together again to make another orb. - “Lloyd here has caused me too much trouble! He needs to be dealt with!” - And aimed it at Lloyd.

“No!” - All five of his friends ran to hug him and shield him from the blast.

Lloyd kept his eyes firmly shut in fear, even when he could see the light through his eyelids. Yet the panicked heartbeat in his ears never stopped. He was still planted on the ground. His friends were still around him. Slowly Lloyd opened his eyes, standing straighter. They were still in front of the school and Morro’s demonic form was still staring at them, albeit shocked that they were alive too.

The six were surrounded by an emerald green forcefield, protecting them from the killing blow. All of them looked around astounded, following Lloyd’s lead of standing straighter.

“What the hell?!” - Morro growled, slightly backing away.

“...it’s my Element.” - Lloyd smiled, looking up at him. - “The magic in my Element was able to unite those who created it!” - He motioned to his friends around him. The magic around them started changing colours in correspondence to the person. Kai’s was red, Zane’s white, Cole’s amber, Nya’s cyan, Jay’s blue. Lloyd’s stayed green, matching the glow that his Element started to emanate. Morro looked down at the necklace in confusion before suddenly yelling when a beam connected between Lloyd and the pendant. - “The Elements of Harmony, together, create a power beyond anything you could imagine.” - The six also started ascending, levelling with Morro. - “A power you are unable to control because you do not wield the Magic of Friendship!”

Everyone’s magic started surrounding Morro in a tornado. - “What is happening?!” - He tried to get away but it enveloped him, drowning out his shouting. Lloyd folded his hands over his chest, taking a deep breath before using his magic to surround everyone in a green light.

The world flashed green, then white, before finally calming down. The students all woke up from their trances, slowly looking around. The space between the school and the portal was now nothing but a crater, and six figures slowly lowered to the ground in front of it, each of them falling the moment their feet hit the ground.

Lloyd groaned from the sudden impact, sitting up with a pained groan. The first thing he noticed once he opened his eyes was his friends also getting up, all looking around in shock. The next thing was the destruction the confrontation left.

He stood up and took a hesitant step forward before walking to the very edge of the crater, peeking into the crater. In the middle lay none other than a familiar ravenette, no longer a demon. - “...” - Lloyd took a deep breath before climbing down into the hole, standing in front of the boy who was shakily trying to pick himself up. - “You will never rule over Jago. You will never be a Protector. Because tonight you have shown what is really in your heart.” - He motioned up to all the students looking down at them. - “That’s why my uncle never gave you a staff.”

Morro finally looked up to meet his gaze, silent tears streaming down his face. - “...I didn’t– I didn’t know there was another way.”

“The magic of the Elements of Harmony is everywhere. You can seek it out genuinely.” - He looked up at his friends with a small smile. - “..or you can be alone forever.” - He turned back to Morro. - “That is your choice. No one else's.”

Morro wiped his face, trying to get his soot covered hair out of his eyes. His clothes hang loosely from him due to the damage caused to them and his voice was raspy. - “I haven’t done a single good thing since I got here.” - He shook his head. - “All I know is how to drive people apart. I don’t know the first thing about friendship.”

Lloyd hesitated briefly before leaning down to grab Morro’s dirty hands and pull him up to his feet, leading him out of the crater. - “I bet they can teach you a thing about it.” - He softly said, nodding towards his friends.

“...why are you taking pity on me?” - Morro grit his teeth, looking down dejectedly.

“Wu saw something in you.” - Lloyd’s grip tightened, making the boy look at him again. - “I can see it too. You have kind eyes.”

Morro opened his mouth but didn’t let out a single sound, looking away once more with a sour yet grateful look. Lloyd just smiled wider before someone cleared their voice behind him, making him turn around.

“I believe this is yours?” - Principal Wu walked up to him, holding his necklace up. Lloyd nodded and Wu put the Element around his neck once more. - “I true Protector in any world leads not by forcing others to bow before him, but by inspiring others to stand with him.” - The old man took a step back, hands folded behind his back. - “We have all seen that you are capable of just that.”

Everyone suddenly cheered, much to Lloyd’s surprise. He just laughed it off though and waved to them, turning around to his friends who were, of course, the loudest. He ran up to them to hug them all once again, whispering a ‘thank you’.

Zane put a hand on his shoulder, a sad smile on his face. - “It’s time for you to go, isn’t it?”

Lloyd looked up at the moon, sighing. - “Yeah. I’ll miss you all so much.” - He smiled at them. - “At first I thought you were all just different versions of my friends back home. But you’re all so special. Promise me you’ll look after each other.” - He glanced back at Morro who had slipped to the back of the crowd. - “And that you’ll keep him company.”

“Of course we will.” - Jay nodded.

“Though I expect a big apology.” - Cole huffed.

“I expect he’ll be handing out a lot of apologies.” - Lloyd chuckled. Walking up to the portal, he looked back at them once more with a wave. - “Goodbye everyone.”

Everyone, his friends, the students, Wu, they all yelled goodbye’s. Lloyd caught Morro’s gaze, who gave him an awkward wave back. Smiling, the blonde finally turned to the portal and walked through it, everyone's voices disappearing in a flash.

The moon reached its peak and the energy buzzing through the five finally died down, magic leaving. Nya walked up to the portal and gently pressed her hand to it. It was a solid mirror.

***

Kai was nervously picking at his nails. Nya was leaning against him, nervously braiding strands of his hair. Everyone was sitting on a set of pillows. Zane was reading a book, but his mind was clearly somewhere else because he had been stuck on the same page for the past ten minutes. Jay was lying on the ground, trying to nap.

Garmadon had been sitting the closest to the mirror, legs crossed and meditating. The doors gently opened and Wu walked in with some tea for everyone, followed by Cole who was carrying a tray of cookies. He set it down on a table, one already filled with a bunch of other treats. He had been stress baking the entire time the group had been waiting for Lloyd.

Garmadon finally opened his eyes when his brother set the cup of tea down in front of him. - “He’s running out of time.” - He finally mumbled, causing everyone to stop whatever activity they were trying to distract themselves with.

“Do not lose faith in him yet.” - Wu calmly replied, sitting down next to him. - “Whatever he does, we must believe that it was the right thing to do.”

Silence fell over the group again, staring intensely at the mirror. With only minutes left on the clock, they all held their breath.

Suddenly, in the last second, a silhouette appeared in the mirror before a familiar blonde passed through it. In a daze Lloyd stumbled and fell to the ground with a yell.

“Lloyd!” - Everyone rushed to him, helping him up. It was easy to spot the Element hanging from his neck.

“You did it!” - Garmadon marvelled, squeezing his son's arms. Lloyd let out a tired laugh, woozy on his feet.

“We were all so worried about you!” - Cole tried holding back tears. The others didn’t even try. The only one not crying was Zane, but the relief was written all over his usually hard to read face.

“But we knew you could do it.” - Kai grinned.

“Thank you.” - Lloyd smiled, before spotting Wu who was hanging back. His smile immediately fell.

The older man coughed. - “What happened to Morro?”

“...” - He took a deep breath. - “He’ll be just fine. I’m sure he is just where he belongs. I left him in good hands.” - He forced a smile at his uncle who nodded in relief.

“So, how was it?!” - Jay excitedly asked. - “Where did you stay?!”

“Who did you meet?” - Zane was probably the most curious of them all.

“What did you eat?” - Cole tried to dig out his recipe notebook.

“I’ll tell you everything! Later though. I’m exhausted.” - Lloyd shook his head. - “I’m honestly just happy to be back home.” - He patted the comfortable clothes on him, preferring them much more. Though he supposed he will miss his hoodie. While patting himself down he felt something hard in his pocket. Digging into it he was shocked to pull out… a pen.

“What’s that?” - Garmadon asked, everyone also confused.

Lloyd smiled even wider. - “...just a lucky charm I picked up along the way.”