Fairy Tail and its characters belong to Hiro Mashima.
Lucy stayed in the water until it grew cool. Finally stepping out of the bath, she watched in disgust as the dirty water drained from the tub, washing away the last few strenuous weeks of her life. Lucy quickly dressed in the clothes Mirajane had left for her.
She felt exposed in this new garb. No corset bound her waist and her breathing was left unrestricted. A loosely flowing peasant blouse was tucked into trousers. Lucy ripped a wide strip of fabric from her old petticoat. She tied her hair back with an old ribbon before carefully tying the strip of fabric around her head to conceal her hair. She tucked loose strands of hair beneath the wrap.
She dug her leather case from beneath the pillow where she had hidden it last night. She tucked the leather case within the waistband of her trousers, using the leather ties to secure it.
Lucy ripped another strip of fabric from her old petticoat and tied it around her waist. She pulled the dagger from the night stand and carefully tucked it into the makeshift belt on her side. It would be easy to grab but safely hidden from curious eyes. Lastly she donned her old cloak.
Lucy wrinkled her nose as she looked down at the cloak. It was mud splattered and torn. Dried blood covered the gash in the shoulder. Shrugging with no other option, she pulled her hood up to conceal her features.
Lucy quietly opened the door, thoroughly inspecting the hallway before exiting. She kept one hand inside her cloak, fingering the dagger. Lucy encountered no one during her descent to the common room.
Due to the danger surrounding her name, it had been decided with Makarov last night that she would go under the alias Lucy Ashley. Any association with Lucy meant a certain death sentence. No one knew better than Lucy the seriousness of the threat that was hunting her.
Lucy entered the common room and made her way to the bar where Mirajane was busy taking orders. Lucy approached the bar and perched on a tall stool near the corner, her eyes darted between the faces of the bar patrons, careful to keep her face hidden as best she could. Spying Lucy, Mirajane waved merrily, drawing a few curious glances from the group she was serving. Mirajane made her way to Lucy, letting her know it would be a few minutes before she would be relieved from her duties at the bar.
Lucy watched Mirajane work while monitoring her surroundings. The pretty barmaid greeted each patron with a bright smile, her silver hair twinkling in the bar's warm lighting. Lucy watched in amusement as the patrons interacted with Mirajane. They were friendly, that's for sure. They laughed gaily, passing drinks around their tables. Two middle aged men flirted shamelessly with the silver-haired barmaid. She giggled at them and graciously accepted their comments before moving on.
Mirajane was soon relieved from her job as another barmaid appeared. She made her way over to Lucy's perch.
"Thanks for waiting," Mirajane said. It seemed her kind smile was always present. "I apologize for it taking so long. Kinana was running late for her shift this morning."
"No need to apologize," Lucy smiled politely.
"Well, if you're ready, I'd like to show you around Fairy Tail and get you settled in your new apartment. Makarov asked me to bring you by his office at the end of the tour. I hope you don't mind," she said hesitantly.
"Thank you, Mirajane. I don't mind," Lucy replied.
"Great!" Mirajane said. "And please, call me Mira. Everyone else does." A bright grin lit her face. "Come, Lucy. I'll give you a tour of Fairy Tail," she said excitedly.
The two stood and began to make their way across the Guild Hall.
"Fairy Tail was established several generations ago by the first Guild Master, Mavis Vermillion. It has been passed down and is now in the hands of Master Makarov. Many of the Guild members live in the Guild's apartments, but others live separately. This," Mirajane gestured to a large corkboard hanging on the wall of the common room, "is the request board. People and businesses send job requests to the local guilds, offering money in exchange for services. Any guild member is welcome to take a job from this board so long as they receive approval from the Master. I can also grant approval in the Master's stead. Many of the guild members have formed teams to help them tackle the larger jobs, but it is not required. Many go on solo missions as well."
Lucy glanced at the board, reading a few of the requests. They were greatly varied, from helping retrieve lost or stolen items to catching bandits who are terrorizing a local town to helping repair a broken oven. It seemed no request was too small or too large for the guild members to take on.
"Master informed me he would be arranging for you to live here at the Guild Hall for as long as need. You would be welcome to stay here permanently or move into your own place once you're settled," Mira said warmly.
Lucy nodded. A troubled frown marred her features. She could not see that far into her future and it was dangerous to hope for a future here. Worriedly, she pulled her hood higher.
Mirajane continued, gesturing around the room. "This is the common room where many guild members spend their free time between jobs. The second floor houses the Master's office and guest rooms, which you already know. The third floor is for S-Class members only and is off limits to all other guild members and guests."
"S-Class?" Lucy questioned. "Are there classes for members?"
"There is only one upper-class of sorts," Mira explained. "S-Class guild members are those who have proven themselves by passing the S-Class exams. They often take S-Class missions, which are often dangerous and require a higher skill level to accomplish."
Lucy nodded in understanding. They continued the tour as Mira gave Lucy some of the history of Fairy Tail, pointing out various items of interest along the way. Mira lead the way to the second floor to a hallway that lead away from the common room. After several twists and turns, Mira stopped at a plain brown door.
"This is your new apartment," Mira spoke as she pulled forth a ring of keys and unlocked the door. "Makarov asked me to outfit it to your needs." Pushing open the door, she revealed a small suite. It was nothing fancy. A small kitchen area opened up to a living area and bedroom combination. The bed was outfitted with plain bedding. The bed was situated next to a window from which poured bright morning sunshine.
"I was able to find some spare clothes for you as well," Mira continued. "They're in the dresser. If you are in need of new boots we can go into town later."
"It's more than I'd ever hoped for," Lucy murmured. "Thank you."
Mira barely caught the words. Lucy turned away as she blinked her watery eyes. Lucy was touched by the generosity Makarov had shown her. Although the apartment was not fancy, it was better than anything Lucy had dared dream. She had been living in the woods for weeks now, sleeping on decaying leaves or propped against a tree. With a deep breath, she collected herself and resumed her detached expression before turning back to Mirajane. Mira suspected more than saw the emotion from the woman and felt a tightening in her chest. Many of the young people who ended up on Makarov's doorstep came from troubled pasts. She suspected this woman was no different. She could recognize a mask when she saw one. It was no different than the one she once wore.
"This suite is women only," Mira continued gently. "I can introduce you to your neighbors when they come by the bar for dinner. Oh, and you can move your possessions out of the guest room later this afternoon," she said as she unhooked a key from the key ring. "This is your key. Be careful not to lose it," she winked.
Lucy's lips twitched with the ghost of a smile. She quickly took the proffered key, tucking it securely into the pocket of her trousers. She already treasured the key and the room it came with. She adjusted the bandana around her forehead, pushing back stray hairs that were trying desperately to escape and pulled her hood higher.
The two left the apartment as Mira lead them back through the winding corridors. Lucy hoped she could remember the route to her apartment. The Guild was indeed massive. She wondered how many members she would be living amongst.
The duo made their way back to the common room before exiting through a door near the back of the Guild. The door opened up to a wide courtyard that was bustling with activity. A small fountain was placed in the center. A woman sat upon its edge, reading a book with two young men. Around the fountain was what appeared to be a training area. To one side stood a room with large sliding barn doors that revealed walls lined with countless weapons. Lucy stared with wide eyes as she took it all in. Men and women were hard at work practicing against straw dummies or sparring against each other.
"This is the training yard," Mira explained. "Any guild member is welcome to use it. We only ask that you clean up after yourself and try not to destroy anything," she chuckled. She used her hands to point as she continued. "That is the armory. The archery range is off to the left." And so she continued as they walked, gesturing as she spoke.
Completing the tour of the courtyard and training area, Mira lead Lucy back into the guild and lead her up the stairs to Makarov's office. Upon knocking, they were admitted. After greeting his guests, Makarov addressed Mira.
"Mira, please find Erza and ask her to come to my office."
"Yes, Master," Mirajane acquiesced. She took her leave, closing the door in her wake. Lucy lowered her hood. Her hair remained bound and hidden in the makeshift bandana.
"I hope you are finding Fairy Tail to your liking, Lucy," Makarov began, a kindly smile on his face. Lucy took a seat before him.
"You've been far too kind, sir," Lucy said. She frowned at her clasped hands before looking up at him with earnest eyes. "I don't know how I will ever pay you back for all you have done for me."
"Lucy, there is no need for repayment," Makarov said in a firm voice. "Your mother was like a daughter to me." His voice warmed and he smiled. "I hope to get to know my dear friend's only daughter. I hope you can make Fairy Tail your home for as long as you want."
"That may not be in the cards for me," Lucy said regretfully, shaking her head.
"Lucy, Fairy Tail is strong," Makarov said. "Fairy Tail sees all its members as nakama. Let us protect you," he implored.
"Makarov, it would be unfair of me to endanger more lives," Lucy denied. "I should never have come here, but," she paused. "I had nowhere else to go," her voice trembled slightly.
"You must be free to make your own decisions," Makarov leaned forward as he spoke. His eyes were beseeching. "But I hope you remember that Fairy Tail protects its own."
A knock interrupted their conversation.
"Come in," Makarov bade. Lucy sprang up, backing toward the corner of the office. She grew tense as she turned toward the door, hastily lifting the hood over her head to hide her identity. Her hand ghosted over her hidden dagger apprehensively.
A scarlet haired woman stood tall as she pushed open the door. She had a stern face and a commanding presence. She was wearing armor with a large sword hanging from her side. Although the armor was bulky, she looked at home amongst its mass.
"You requested my presence, Master?" the woman spoke, her voice was strong and confident. She glanced between Makarov and Lucy. Her hand came to rest on her sword as she sensed the tension coming from the latter.
"Yes, Erza," Makarov stood, waving her in. Erza closed the door and stepped forward. "I have a particular request that is of the utmost importance." He turned and motioned Lucy forward. "This is Lucy. She is the newest member of Fairy Tail."
Lucy forced herself to relax her stance as she stepped forward, cautiously lowering her hood. She hesitantly offered her hand to the armored woman.
"Erza Scarlet," the woman introduced herself, taking Lucy's hand in a crushing grip. "Welcome to Fairy Tail."
"Thank you," Lucy smiled politely as her hand was released.
"Have a seat, you two," Makarov instructed.
The two sat in the available seats, facing Makarov.
"Erza, I must ask your utmost discretion before I explain the situation," Makarov began. His voice was uncompromising. "Be aware that any association with Lucy could be deadly. The information I share with you today must not leave this room. Her identity must remain secret."
"Yes, Master," Erza responded. "I agree to your terms." She turned to Lucy, meeting her eyes. "You are a member of Fairy Tail and a friend to the Master. I will help you in any way you may require." Her voice was fiercely loyal. Lucy blinked at her in surprise.
Erza turned back to Makarov. He nodded before continuing.
"Lucy's mother was a dear friend of mine, Layla Heartfilia," he paused. Erza's eyes widened at the name, glancing over to Lucy who had lowered her eyes to her lap. Layla Heartfilia had been beloved by the people of Fiore for her unwavering kindness and compassion. She had been the wife of Jude Heartfilia, one of the wealthiest men in the country. "She was murdered two months ago." Makarov's voice was deathly grim.
Lucy heard Erza's sharp intake of breath. Lucy kept her eyes downcast as she felt her chest tighten with emotion. Her heart was still raw from the pain. Had it already been two months?
"Lucy was barely able to escape alive and now Layla's murderers are hunting her," Makarov continued. "You must know that any association with Lucy will mark you as a target. I cannot stress enough the danger of her situation. With that being said, I would like to ask you to train Lucy in combat. This training will take place in secret and no one must know. This is your decision and I cannot order you to risk your life."
Without hesitation, Erza turned to Lucy.
"Miss Heartfilia, I would be honored to train you in combat," her eyes gleamed with fire. "I would also like to offer my protection if the need should arise."
Lucy swallowed. Her eyes were wide in astonishment.
"Thank you, Erza," she spoke softly. "You can't imagine how thankful I am for your help. I will never be able to repay you for this kindness." She was feeling terribly indebted. Without even a second thought, Makarov and Erza had offered their protection even if it could mean their death. What had she done to deserve such kindness?
"You are nakama now," Erza shrugged matter-of-factly. "There is no need to repay me."
"Thank you, Erza," Makarov stated. "Lucy will go by the alias Lucy Ashley. No one is to know that she is a Heartfilia or that she comes from Acalypha. The truth of her heritage must remain a secret, even from Fairy Tail. She has been assigned the vacant apartment next to yours, Erza."
Erza raised her eyebrows, but chose not to comment.
"Now, I believe that is all we have to discuss for today. Erza," Makarov addressed the armor-clad woman. "I would like you to keep me informed on Lucy's progress."
"Yes, Master," Erza consented. She clapped Lucy on the shoulder, who jumped slightly in surprise. "Come, a warrior must keep her energy up. Let us go dine before we begin training."
Thanking Makarov, Lucy stood and pulled her hood up, once again covering her hair and hiding her face. Closing the office door behind her, Lucy hastened her pace to catch up with Erza's confident march as she followed her to the common room.
XXX
Only a few words were exchanged as the two ate. It was now lunchtime at the Guild and the room echoed with the clatter of silverware and the conversations of the rambunctious guild members. Erza had chosen a table in a shadowy corner, far removed from the notice of the bar patrons. Erza's stern frown kept curious passers-by from approaching and even her friends steered clear of the forbidding redhead.
Lucy kept her anxious attention on the people around her. She had grown quite used to the quiet of the woods in her weeks traveling to Magnolia. She found the noise of the guild nearly overwhelming. She kept her hood up as she ate. Although it made her feel as if she had tunnel vision and it obscured her peripheral vision, she was not comfortable enough to reveal herself. She looked far too like her mother for her liking. Since her mother's death had been in the newspapers and magazines lately, she worried Layla's face would be far too fresh in peoples' minds and may lead to her discovery. Although the cloak was cumbersome and awkward, it was far preferred to being discovered.
Finishing their meals, Erza motioned for Lucy to follow her to the armory. Collecting an assortment of weapons and handing them to Lucy to carry, Erza then lead the way down the winding corridors of Fairy Tail Guild Hall to a large, empty room. Erza locked the door behind them, securing their privacy. Lucy sat the weapons down and unclasped her hood, breathing a sigh of relief at having the cumbersome hood off of her head.
"Now Lucy," a wicked grin lit Erza's face making a shiver of apprehension make its way down Lucy's spine. "Are you ready to train?"
I did a poor job of editing, so please forgive me.
Thanks for reading!