You don't have to use the songs I put up here, but after this chapter, they will probably relate to something in the chapter. I got the name from this song so I figured why not start it with that one.]
Disclaimer: I don't own Fairy Tail or Harry Potter
Song: Dusk Till Dawn (feat. Sia) -ZAYN
Lucy hasn't always hated the cold. It started when her mother died. When her father began to act as though she were a shade capable of no feelings. That she had no idea the pain he was going through, however, she lost her mother. A figure that was meant to stay in her life to watch her grow up and Lucy was supposed to be there as her parents grew old.
Maybe if it hadn't been the snow that covered her mother's grave, her young brain wouldn't have associated the two. A child's mind is susceptible to any given circumstances. The innocence of children must be kept safe. For who will be innocent if not children? Certainly not adults. Most are greedy and wish to further their own gain, just like her father. Always thinking of himself.
Nothing but selfishness and greed ever reflected in her father's eyes these days. His business is all he ever thinks about. Not the daughter he mistreats or the life that used to be full of love. A shell of a man that once was caring, lost to the seduction of dark magic and financial gain.
Lucy turned away from the falling snow outside. The train taking her further and further from her home. Why did her father have to bring her along in this chase for the proverbial 'Dragon Hoard' for riches? Lucy didn't understand why her father cannot be happy with the money they already have.
Instead, he decides to take a new job and uproot her life to make more money. Again. Lucy is so sick and tired of her father making her choices. She's fifteen, two more years and she'll be free. He won't be able to legally control her anymore.
Her extra lessons during the summer would finally be good for something: she was well rounded in politics and legal dealings inside wizard society. She smirked at the thought of her father reaping what he'd sown in a legal dispute.
Even when her mother was alive, they had always been nomadic. Moving from country to country to expand the company, to get more deals and to gain partners. Growing up in different cultures, Lucy thought she finally found a home in France. Attending Beauxbatons was -up to this point- the best thing that had happened to her.
She was able to break away from her father, to be her own self. Even with his curse, she was free.
She was able to make friends and relationships that would hopefully last. They treated her better than her father did at least. But there was always a hidden fear in their eyes. Be it threats from her father or her own curse, Lucy could never tell. People are typically fearful of things they don't understand.
All Lucy wanted was to have a normal family, normal blood, just to be normal. She doesn't care if it be by muggle standards or by warlocks'.
All the money in the world won't buy real happiness or friends. Lucy knows this now, after years of trying to take control of her life. It takes more than money to break a curse.
…-++:::++-...
Bits and baubles dinged as white flakes floated down from the ceiling of the circular office. Wreaths and garland decorated the top of the glass cabinets along the walls. Each case displaying different lacrimas and collectibles of all shapes and sizes. All seemingly meaningless knickknacks to unknowing viewers.
Makarov sat at his large desk looking down at the teenager in front of him, his eye twitching slightly. "Natsu…" The boy looked up from playing with a small flame in his hand, an innocent grin on his deviant face. "How many times do I have to tell you not to sneak out of the castle at night ...or use magic without a wand. At least try to be discreet."
The small flame in the boy's hand grew larger as the boy continues to fidget with the magic. "Why should I care what other people think 'bout the magic I use? 'Sides it was in the middle of the night."
The flame went out as the boy crossed his arms over his t-shirt clad chest and huffed, quietly mumbling under his breath. "The o'ly reason I even got caught was 'cause I flew back." Natsu reached up onto Makarov's desk to a crystalline bowl holding sweets. His fist returning with a handful of a Honeydukes' staple: galloping gumdrops.
Makarov sighed, hearing each word. Looking to the sky, he prayed for wisdom to keep this boy from accidentally killing himself.
Meanwhile, Natsu began to blow wisps of flame from his mouth as he tossed the bouncing candy into the air for target practice. Makarov cleared his throat to once again catch the young lad's attention, causing the gummy to miss his mouth. The flaming sweet hit the floor and began to melt. Rolling his eyes at the boy's inability to stand still, Makarov snapped his fingers and the mess on the floor was removed.
Not happy that his fun had been spoiled, Natsu turned to face the headmaster munching on 'lightly' toasted gumdrops. Makarov shook his head, stood up from his chair and took a step onto his desk, making him only slightly taller than the Pink haired teen standing in front of him.
"Now listen here, if I catch you sneaking out one more time, I'm going to make you take the majority of the clean up duty in the guild." The older man said. "With Erza to supervise." He added on as a fleeting thought.
Natsu, breaking out into a cold sweat, gulped at the thought of the red-headed she-demon. The last time he had cleaning duty as a punishment, was in second year. He thought he could get away with casting a spell on the mops and other cleaning supplies.
Let's just say, he flooded the dungeons and is responsible for the large section of missing color from the Fairy Tail Guild banner. Erza beat the hell out of him that day and he very much did not want a repeat.
Thoroughly pleased to get through to the pyro before him, Makarov sat once again in his chair and reached for a cloth bag of coins inside a drawer. Instantly hearing the clinking of the metal, Natsu shook himself from his day terror, a.k.a. 'Erza's Wrath' and began to bounce with excitement.
"You get one. Keep out of trouble brat and you might get more." Taking out one of the golden coins, Makarov flicked it at Natsu who caught it easily and nodded vigorously in agreement.
The coin obviously wasn't a galleon, or any currency used by modern wizards. He rolled the coin in his fingers examining his prize. There was a kneeling woman holding a candle on one side and what looked like a flower on the other. 'It must be foreign, I wonder how much it's worth.'.
The coin had lost its luster, but Natsu had no doubts that he could shine it up. His vibrant green eyes flashing a golden red with possibilities of where he could place his new treasure.
With the gold safely in his hands, Natsu turned and practically danced his way to the door, grinning like the cat that got the cream. He turned around in the door and quickly said, "Thanks Gramps, you're awesome. I promise ya won' catch me next time." Then he was gone.
Makarov sighed and shook his head as he ran his hand over his mustache. He saw the boy's momentary lapse of control, he needs to get better at maintaining it. Looks like the lad would be back here sooner than desired.
Regardless, the older man could not figure out where the lad got his energy. He's looking forward to seeing how Natsu does at quidditch tryouts this year. It'll certainly be something to remember, especially since fifth years are allowed to try out for the guild teams. Natsu and Gray will likely be out for blood.
A heavy knock interrupted his chain of thought and with a swish of his wrist, the door opened to reveal a thin girl about Natsu's age flanked by a large bull of a man in a navy suit. Long golden hair framed her face and cascaded down her shoulders and back. Her clothes were a soft pink and neatly pressed, clearly the mark of a more than well off family.
Wearing a skirt suit as recreational dress is a little excessive in the headmaster's opinion. However, Makarov knew exactly who this girl was and with her father's track record, he's surprised she isn't in a ball gown. Though, the older man had a feeling it wasn't up for her to choose.
She was paler than average, as are many others when they approach the headmaster's office. Their behavior perturbed Makarov, however, something was off about the way they acted. They were too stiff and it wasn't from upper-class training.
Both their eyes seemed empty. He'd seen the results of that spell only a handful of times, but he'd recognize it anywhere. There was no light, no happiness, there was no free will, only a blank stare and submission. Makarov looked at them with pity before motioning for both to enter.
When they were in front of his desk, she curtsied and the man bowed. Neither of their movements were natural. Taurus introduced himself and then the girl as Lady Luciana Heartfilia. He then explained that he would leave once he knew she was safe.
"Take your time. You can stay as long as needed." Makarov smiled.
Taurus placed his fist on his heart and dipped his head, the white sides contrasting with his midnight topped crown and spoke. "Merci Monsieur, but 'zer is o'zer business to conclude. I surveyed 'ze grounds when we arrived."
Makarov nodded in understanding and responded, "Of course. Then I assure you, she is safe here with me."
Taurus picked up his head and reached into his suit. He pulled out a letter and handed it to the headmaster. "Z'is is from Maître Heartfilia, he requests you burn it once finished." With a last glance at Lucy, Taurus is gone. With the door firmly closed, Lucy broke through her mental walls and wasted no time in speaking. The abruptness of the change in behavior shocking the headmaster.
"I also 'ave a letter for you." Her slight french poking through. "It shall explain 'ze many questions you are sure to 'ave, an' correct any conclusions you 'ave already made about 'zease circumstances. My father should also wish to speak with you again, read my letter before he contacts you. Please also burn it and tell no one. I wish I could speak of more."
Her accentuation of that singular word did not go unnoticed by the older man. Clearly, Lucy had found a loophole in the curse that was placed on her. Makarov was impressed, her intelligence far surpassed someone of her age.
He nodded slightly, "Thank you, Ms. Heartfilia, I shall read them later. I am sure you already know who I am so we'll skip my introduction." Makarov mused while stroking his mustache. Lucy gave a small smile in agreement and said, "Please, call me 'Lucy'."
They began to converse about Hogwarts. The headmaster went on to explain how things operated. The curriculum she will be taking and how it is based on her test scores at Beauxbatons. He gave her a piece of parchment with her schedule on it and told her basic rules about the grounds. Last but not least, Makarov stated she needed to be sorted into her house.
With a merry clap of his hand and a smile on his face, Makarov made his way to a stool on the far side of the office. "I shall inform the prefects in your house to watch out for you and be sure to show you around. Now, shall we get started?"
…-++:::++-...
Levy looked up from her book just as someone sped past her, the wind knocking her glasses down her nose. On instinct, she pulled the book in her hands tight to her chest.
A quick "Sorry, Levy!" was yelled, as the person continued to run off. Surprised, she was only able to catch a glimpse of pink hair before he had disappeared behind a gargoyle statue. Levy gave an irritated pout and pushed her glasses back up.
Suspicious of where Natsu would be heading, Levy's first thought was to check for Zonko's joke products or black powder. It wouldn't be the first time Natsu pulled some kind of massive escapade during a break. After double checking the corridor, Levy readjusted her headband and tucked the bangs that had escaped back into place.
Picking up her book, the short girl began to make her way to the library once more. This time, however, she was looking where she was going.
As she walked, she began to think of the number of times she's seen Natsu run off like that. Typically he would at least say 'hello'. He's distant but not rude, he's always got somewhere to go. Her feet came to a stop and she turned and gazed back at the passage Natsu took. Her hazel eyes filled with worry and she once again brought the book close to her body in comfort.
"Don't do anything stupid."
Levy looked away when she heard her name being called and gave a sigh. She was hoping to avoid these two for a few more hours.
"Levy! We found you!" Jet and Droy chorused.
"Yeah, you did." Levy said with an exasperated smile. The boys ran over, not noticing her demeanor and immediately began offers to escort her to her destination, to which Levy kindly accepted. There was no point in trying to ditch them, it would only give her a headache.
…-++:::++-...
Lucy stared at the strange old hat in front of her. It looked as though it had been dragged behind a broom in the middle of a storm. The cloth was worn and looked centuries old, with a gaping tear acting as a 'mouth'.
The odd fashion statement was swaying as it sang its song and Makarov was swishing his finger to the beat as though he was the conductor.
When the ratty old hat finished, Makarov whispered something indistinct to the hat and then immediately drew away to look at Lucy expectantly. She gave him an incredulous look but compiled and made her over to the hat.
The short man smiled then waved his wand at the air beside the stool. He then began to step on air as though there were steps. Makarov picked up the old hat and motioned for Lucy to sit on a stool and placed the Sorting Hat on her head.
As soon as the fabric touched her hair, Lucy could hear the hat speaking inside of her head. Its voice was a deep raspy sound, showing its age. As it sat on her head it began to talk about buried courage, loyalty, and ambition. The hat stayed on the topic of knowledge and went as far as to compliment her mind. Without more deliberation, the Sorting Hat called out: "Ravenclaw!"
Makarov clapped and called a "Congratulations!" He then thanked the hat and sent it back to its resting place. He made his way to his desk and began to write on a piece of parchment.
"Lucy, you would be in your fifth year, correct?"
"Oui, Monsieur." Lucy started to walk around the office as she waited. As she went from shelf to shelf, thoughts on everything that has happened these past few days filled her mind. She was physically and mentally exhausted. Putting up a front since she left her father's house in London, had put a strain on her psyche.
She almost wished Taurus hadn't left so early. He was affected by the curse as well, but he couldn't break free. He would be forced to tell her father everything that took place in the meeting. She couldn't be found out, yet.
Lucy glanced over at the headmaster. She knew he was part of the law system in the ministry in London. Lucy's eyes lit up, he might be willing to help her. Makarov finished his note and it zapped out of the office.
The older man turned his attention to the girl browsing his collection. "Ms. McGarden should be here soon to begin the tour." Lucy looked back from a red lacrima to Makarov's face as he continued to speak.
"She is one of our fifth year Ravenclaw prefects. She'll get you settled into your dorm and find your way to class. You are a bright girl, I'm sure you will find your way around soon."
Lucy returned the compliment with a quick 'Merci' and once again began to peruse the shelves of Makarov's office. "Tell me, Directeur Makarov, how is 'zis country run?"
Lucy's back was once again towards the older man, who had grabbed some papers and began to stamp acceptable ones with approval. They were S-class mission applications for the summer.
Continuing with his busy work, Makarov answered honestly. "We have a ministry, not unlike the one in France. Though, ours was founded in 1707, about eighty years before France founded theirs during the revolution."
Lucy nodded and continued to browse the cases, beginning once again. "I see. Is 'ze judgment Breaux democratic or is 'zere a singular judge 'zat makes 'ze final verdicts?"
Makarov eyed the blonde in the corner of the office. She was reading the titles on the bookshelf as she waited for an answer. "Neither, officials are appointed onto a board. The minister judges and the board votes on the verdict after evidence is given."
Lucy mentally swore. She would need to provide a good deal more physical evidence for a trail.
Before Lucy could ask another question, a knock was heard. Makarov motioned for the door to open once more to reveal a small cerulean hair girl in a large lavender sweater and leggings. Wringing her hands, she walked into the office and looked at the headmaster in concern.
"You wished to see me, Master?"
"Yes, child." He smiled, then motioned to Lucy. "This is Lady Luciana Heartfilia, and she is the newest addition to our school and to Ravenclaw house." Lucy walked back to the front of Makarov's desk, giving a shy smile and wave.
Levy beamed at the new information, her smile lighting up her face. They've never had a transfer be sorted into Ravenclaw before. The prefect turned to Lucy and swiftly introduced herself.
"My name is Levy McGarden, it's nice to meet you Lady Heartfilia."
"Please call me Lucy. 'Zere is no need for 'ze formalities. If it is acceptable with you both, I would prefer to keep my title between us." A sheepish look crossed her face.
Confusion took over Levy's face, diluting her smile slightly before understanding replaced it. "Oh. Sure, I won't tell anyone."
"Neither shall I." promised Makarov.
Lucy sighed in relief and gave a small smile to both. "Merci beaucoup, I am very grateful."
With all the official business concluded, Makarov dismissed both girls with a quick tip that Lucy's belongings would be brought up to Ravenclaw tower.
Levy immediately whisked Lucy away to begin the tour. It was Saturday plus the break, so the school would be practically empty. Makarov was lucky Levy didn't often check out of the castle.
With the girls gone, Makarov turned to the letter addressed by Lucy's Father. A powerful man with powerful enemies. Makarov had heard of the new position the younger man had taken in the ministry, no doubt that was the reasoning behind Lucy's questions. As a member of the Grand Council, he personally hadn't met the man yet, however, his reputation preceded him.
Lucy's letter also sat on his desk. He would need to read that one as well and feeling that it would be worth more of his time reached over and slit the top of her letter.
"Now, what do you need to tell me.'
Lucy obviously wanted his help with something, she also must have done her research on his background to assume he would keep her letter secret.
…-++:::++-...
Natsu raced alongside the shore with a grin on his face. The rocks biting his bare feet as they hit the ground, his shoes having long been discarded. With each step, the snow and ice melted with the heat from his body.
Happy flew above him as he ran into a small cove on the far side of the lake. Natsu, knowing exactly where he was headed didn't slow as he banked into the trees.
As he ran up the animal trails, he stole a glance at the coin Master gave him. 'Man, Gramps is the best.' he thought, leaping over a large boulder and continued to run. By this time the sun was setting, it painted the sky with golds, reds, and blues. They mixed and intertwined and as Natsu made it closer to the mountains, he was able to see it over the trees. He continued on his mission while glancing at the sunset.
Natsu placed the coin in his pocket as he slowed his pace and approached a large split in the earth. It was deep; the ragged stone walls isolated it from everything. The rock was cut into the earth by a natural spring from further up the mountain. From the bottom of the ravine, it shut out other light sources, perfect for anyone hoping to hide something.
Which is exactly what Natsu was doing. He smirked as he jumped down into the dark fissure. Before he reached the bottom, he cast a spell that slowed his descent. With little more than a splash, Natsu began to make his way to a hollow in one of the cliff walls.
Going deeper into the cave, what little light from the sun dimmed into blackness. The pink haired teenager used the same fire spell from Makarov's office and a flame appeared, perched in his palm.
Stalactites and crystals shine as they ventured deeper. Happy, having been gliding behind him, touched down on one of the large white crystals and ran ahead as they came to a small gallery. More rock formations framed the entryway. Natsu smiled as he finally arrived at his destination.
Taking out his wand for the first time that night, Natsu released the protective spells and notice-me-not charms he's placed on this area. Another spell to conjure pseudo boulders dissipates, revealing a large doorway.
Once he and Happy were inside, He once again raised the spells. 'Ya can never be too careful.'
They'll be able to leave once they complete their business without Natsu having to reapply the spells.
Natsu picked up his furry friend and they made their way to a brazier, which Natsu then set alight. The fire traveled through the large cavern illuminating heaps of gold. Jewelry, galleons, gemstones, metals -anything that could be precious in terms of wealth- was in the cavern. Some of the piles reached as high as the ceiling and everything had a specific place.
When all the braziers were lit, Natsu made his way down the stairs. The pink haired boy held his familiar in front of his face and looked him dead in the eye.
"Try not 'ta move anythin', m'kay?" He was answered by a cheerful meow and Natsu set his small flying cat down.
As he walked, Natsu watched Happy take off and flit around the cavern. He then turned his attention to the coin from Makarov and flicked it into the air.
" 'Ight, let's fine' a place fer ya." The fire portrayed shadows on his tan face, as he entered his hoard with a smirk.
So here it is, 4000 words. I'm ready to crash. Once again sorry this took so long. I know it's been like a week. Literally been working on this for days without a break. Big thanks to Cafe passionne and my bestie who beta read this. Sorry for any wrong french or what not. Lucy will eventually grow out of her accent. For any that review, would you rather me answer your questions directly or in the next chapter if any. Tell me what you think open to suggestions and theories of what yall thinks gonna happen :D
Kisa7221