SHOUT OUT: Hey! Please check out these awesome stories that I am currently reading! Why?! Because they are all of my favorites list and it's not often I stop writing to take a reading break! So, trust me, they are good and the writers could use some solid feedback to know how they are doing!
Beautiful With You – by Crimsonwolfko
Fairy Tale Twist – by BlackThunder1221
Temptations of a Natural Woman – by Muchee-chan
A/N: Hey! Happy New Year's Guys! I busted my butt trying to get this chapter out for you all this weekend, taking advantage of the holiday that gave me an extra day off of work! Christmas was just too crazy busy. It went on for four days after it was over, due to scattered family, but it sure was nice seeing them all! I got Iron Gray updated in time for its 2-year anniversary though, so that was exciting! Also, at the end of it I wrote a little personal story about myself and how I got into writing, my struggles with it and also how I got into Fairy Tail and Gajevy… All of that jazz! And… I am including it at the end of this chapter as well, below the review responses! You don't have to read it, but I hope some of you will, especially if you have ever dealt with hardships in your life!
ONE OTHER NOTE: Before people bug me about it, I did not have Juvia speak in 3rd person. Why? Because I watch the English dub of the anime and she doesn't speak like that… Weird I know… Two, because she is an attorney and that wouldn't be right. I know some people won't agree, but… *shrugs, sorry.
Now please… read on friends and huzzah to a wonderful new year!
I apologize for any errors I may have missed.
Recap:
"Yer phone? Why? What the hell happened to it?" He asked, catching Levy right before she was about to step into the bathroom. She paused, looking up at him.
"Oh… Well… I told you remember?" She asked, making Gajeel shake his head at her.
"I left it in the club bathroom Gajeel... I told you that, when we got out into the parking lot remember…?" Her hands went to her hips as her eyes drifted upwards, continuing before he could answer. "Well… I guess you were a little preoccupied to be fair…" She spoke, glancing back down at him. "But, yea… I dropped it when Thibault went after me and I didn't have any time to grab it, after we rushed out of there." She explained, waving it off like it was no big deal. "Guess I'll just have to stop by there sometime and see if anyone found it…" She added absentmindedly, before disappearing behind the bathroom door.
Gajeel sat there on the bed, his face paling as he listened to the door slam shut, followed by the noise of the faucet turning and the water running. He felt numb with realization as it invaded him like a cold wind, making it hard to breathe. His eyes were large ovules as he stared at the messy floor of Levy's apartment, just trying to wrap his head around the true impact of Levy's words.
I left it in the club bathroom Gajeel...
No… Came his own inner voice in response, as his mind was beginning to panic. The club doesn't have yer phone now Levy… Gajeel could feel his heart icing over as he inhaled a sharp breath, a cold sweat had formed over him, as he suddenly felt trapped.
The fuckin cops do…
Monster
Chapter 9: Roar
Gajeel was hobbling down the street away from Levy's apartment building as fast as his wounded leg would allow him too. The sun was nearing its highest point in the cerulean sky; blotchy white clouds were occasionally passing over the large body, blocking out its warm glow. Gajeel could feel the cool air filtering in and out of his lungs as he gritted his teeth, withholding a pant. The pain of carrying his own large weight was straining the still fresh stitches, as he could feel the contraction of his skin and muscles with each vigorous step he made.
He could hear Levy's voice in the back of his mind, scolding him for not taking care while injured, but he didn't have the time to be worried about it, when this was all in an effort to protect her. If he didn't act fast, then he wouldn't be able to keep the promise he had made to her. The one about keeping her out of every bit of trouble they had landed themselves in the night before.
I know I fuckin' saw one on this street… But where!? Fuck! His mind was cursing while still in a state of perpetual panic. His red eyes were darting back and forth along the sidewalks searching, as he retraced the steps him and Levy had taken the night prior. The cold air of fall was stinging at his skin, as he had no jacket on. He had left his coat hanging over his bike and his bike was still at the club. All he had over his torso was the same short-sleeved shirt he had been wearing that night. The tight fabric of the sleeve just managing to cover the black spiraling symbol tattooed over his right bicep. His head was shifting back and forth, as he passed by several more buildings with a heavy groan. His eyes slammed shut for a moment as he bit back the pain of moving, he was desperate and completely frustrated.
Upon hearing Levy's revelation about her phone, Gajeel had quickly been able to deduce what had happened to it. It wasn't difficult for him as he was accustomed to these types of scenarios and was normally two steps ahead, as he often needed to be. His line of work didn't allow for such mistakes otherwise, but he hadn't counted on Levy's involvement making things so complicated. It wasn't her fault of course. If anything, Gajeel was still blaming himself, as he truly believed Thibault would not have even targeted Levy, if it hadn't been for his noticeable interest in her.
Gajeel's eyes were opening as the guilt and regret lingered inside of him, resonating like a sickness in the pit of his stomach. He hated what he had done to her. How he dragged her through hell and back, just because he hadn't been able to stay away from her. And he especially hated how he was once again, rushing in to save her from his own misgivings, for a second time in less than twenty-four hours. How the hell had he let any of this happen?
He could feel his heart clenching as he inhaled a deep breath, his body pushing onwards desperately. After Levy had disappeared into the bathroom to shower, it had only taken Gajeel about two minutes to let everything sink in, before he was jumping into action. He had thrown on his boots and disappeared out the door without even looking back. His body was a bundle anxiety, as his brain racked itself with any plausible solution that may have been within his reach. He had no means of contacting anyone, what with his burner cell being dead. He also had no transportation and he needed to get that damn phone back immediately. He knew the police had it in their possession by now.
Gajeel's mind stayed focused in on the facts, in order to give himself clarity, so he could think properly. Levy had first heard the sirens during his brutal assault on Thibault, so he knew that couldn't be the reason why they had initially shown up at the club. The blood in the bathroom was the more likely reason, as it had been far too messy for people to ignore, what with Thibault's blood coating the wall and Levy's pooling on the floor. The police would have had to come, to investigate the scene and then they would have taken blood samples for DNA testing purposes, once there. That would also have been when they would have found Levy's discarded phone and confiscated it as potential evidence for whatever the hell had happened in the bathroom. Then lastly, they would have ended the night by discovering and scraping up, what was left of Thibault off of the parking lot concrete.
Gajeel knew the routine well, he had too, in order to cover his own hide, but he hadn't ever counted on covering someone else's. The whole lot of it was just a giant mess. The only bright side being that at least Levy's blood wouldn't be recognized, as he was pretty sure she hadn't ever been arrested before. They would not have her DNA on file to match it with anything. That mattered little though, considering they would be able to link Thibault to the bathroom through his blood, right where they had found her phone.
That phone was the one damming piece of evidence that linked Levy to everything. Once the police got inside of it, they would know exactly where to go for questioning about the battery charges on Thibualt. And once the police knew about Levy's involvement… It would only be a matter of time before others would find out as well, much more dangerous people. These people being the real reason why Gajeel was beginning to sweat. Forcing himself onwards with all of his power despite the god-awful pain that was antagonizing him with each step.
A chill moved through him as he thought about what would happen, it made it difficult for him to swallow the cold air. He couldn't let it get to that point. Nobody could know why he had really taken out Thibault, because if they did, she would be the one to pay. She would become leverage against him.
Why din't you tell me sooner Levy?! Gajeel shook his head furiously at the thought; knowing deep down that none of this was her fault, but his mind was grasping at straws. If I had known… I woulda went back in there and grabbed it, damn it! I wouldn't have gone home with you…
His mind was flashing with the memories of their night together, shining like a globe of warmth, among the dark bitter cold world that was his own. He could feel that darkness hanging over him, threatening to conceal that golden glow. Snuff it out, like wind blowing out a single match. A very critical question was taking shape in his mind. Had it been worth it? Had it been worth risking her safety, her life, everything that she was, just so he could fulfill his sadistic craving of her?
His stomach was turning with the sickness once again, as he felt like he might need to stop jogging, just so he could throw up. The shame was burning his insides into silky black ash, as he already knew the answer to that question. His history with her was speaking all of the truths, that he wished he could deny.
Gajeel was a selfish and possessive man, and if given the opportunity he knew he would take Levy up again, in a matter of seconds. His will, to resist his inner most desires was weak, as he normally relied on instinct in most aspects of his life anyways. And his pull to Levy was far too strong, as she had tainted him with her angelic vitality long ago. His being with her, had only made it that much worse, to the point where Gajeel couldn't even lie to himself about it anymore. The ugliness of his own self-serving nature, made him hate himself all the more and he knew that was just one, on a list of many reasons why he would never deserve her.
Gajeel had stopped to catch his breath, as he was on the verge of retching, partially due to the pain and partially due to his train of thought. He bent over his knees some, his wide eyes staring at the cement of the sidewalk, as a cold drop of sweat dripped off of his forehead, hitting the stone below him. His throat was dry; his body cold and yet the sweat continued to drip, as he was on the verge of hyperventilating. He brought his clammy head back up, a hand settling over his abdominals to ease the wrenching pain in his gut. That was when he spotted it, what he had been looking for. It was a phone booth across the street.
There…! His thoughts exclaimed as he B-lined his way over to it with stomping feet. He finally reached it, grabbing at the sides as he scrambled his way in. His large quivering hand reaching for the wallet in his back pocket. He opened it, to pull out two coins and then a small worn piece of paper with a number handwritten on it in pen.
Needs to be an outside line anyways… He thought, as he looked over the phone number. His fingers were pushing the coins into the slot, before he lifted the receiver up to his face and dialed the number written down. The phone only rang once before a man's voice answered.
"What is it?" Gajeel wasted no time in getting the words out, his voice coming out firm.
"We need to meet… NOW." He demanded panting. He waited as the man on the other end paused for nearly a full minute, before answering.
"Okay…" The man replied, finally accepting Gajeel's demand "Where?" The voice questioned, getting straight to the point.
"I'll come there. I need you ta look up the number fer a cab service I can call…" Gajeel told him as he picked up a pen that was chained to the phone booth. He leaned his small paper up to the side window of the booth and got ready to write.
"Just tell me where you are and I'll send one…" The voice replied urgently as if trying to get off of the line.
"No!" Gajeel growled. "Gimme a damn number!" He ordered, his tone unforgiving. He could hear the man sighing reluctantly on the other end, but he could also hear the clicking of keys.
Gajeel didn't care if he was being difficult. He had made sure to make note of Levy's address upon exiting her building. It was just down the street, some ways and he wasn't about to tell anyone else, other than the driver, where it was. Not takin' anymore chances… He thought, as the man began to read off a phone number for him to write down.
Levy was pushing a hand over her forehead and through her sopping wet hair as she attempted to rinse the last of the soap out. Her head angled up as she closed her eyes, the water was falling over her face and streaming down in paths across her skin. Her nose breathed in the steam, allowing her to reach a place of serenity as it warmed her from the inside. There was a tingling coming from the wound on her head, but she was able to ignore it while in the midst of her relaxed state. The heat and privacy was granting her mind a certain freedom she wouldn't normally allow herself, due to her usual logical mindset.
Her hand was sliding down, her fingers sweeping along her own hairline beside her ear, before they moved towards the center of her neck. The tips paused there over her own throat as her eyelids lifted lazily. She opened them halfway as she subconsciously pursed her lips; the ghost of sensation was pressed up against her skin. Gajeel's thumb, digging deep against the spot her fingertips rested on now, cutting off her voice as his teeth sunk into her flesh.
Levy's head angled to one side, her eyes narrowing as her fingers brushed down to the place he had bitten her. She could feel it in her skin, the disturbance his fangs had left; causing a slight shudder as she relived the pain she had endured during that moment. She closed her eyes once again, her head shifting down as her chest heaved.
She had been trapped in a series of recollections about each thing Gajeel had inflicted on her that night since the moment she had stepped foot in the shower. The vulnerability and fulfillment of his every touch, was scaling over her naked body just as easily as each drop of water was. Waves of emotion were triggering memories and physical reactions from within her, as she relived them. They brought her a certain satisfaction that she wouldn't normally indulge in, but it was freeing for once to not be above that, which everyone else had.
Levy wanted to just be human and to feel as such. She had been walking around like an empty shell for the past two years. A fake smile carved onto her face, as she went about her day-by-day, working hard to achieve her dream of becoming a doctor, with no rhyme or a reason to the loneliness that consumed her. Waiting for something to cave, that being either her hope or her sense of purpose.
Levy opened her eyes, her gaze settled on the water as it hit the floor of the shower around her feet, flowing towards the drain. Gajeel had given that to her, he had filled her with life again, even if she had gone through hell just to reach it. She was beginning to see why it may have all been worth it. Her arm was lifting up towards her sternum, her hand resting between her breasts as the water droplets slid off of her. She had no lingering regret about being with him, despite the darkness she knew he possessed.
No, if anything she was longing for his touch again, as she continued to relive the residual effects of his intent. The way he had stalked towards her naked, his stare pervading over hers, his expression resembling that of animal ready to strike. She could read the meaning as easily as the text of her favorite book. He had come at her right then, ready for another round, a continuation of their night together.
Levy knew that now, as sure as she knew her name, but it had been so shocking at the time. She hadn't known what to do and she had responded with nothing, but panic. Her body at a complete stand still, as she had waited for him to do something. She hadn't been expecting him to make any kind of move, after the way he had voiced their agreement about it only being the one time.
Levy shook her head at the memory regretfully; the hand over her chest was gliding over her heart instead. The rhythm of its beat was increasing, as she once again felt the phantom touch of Gajeel's caress. His hands moving over her body, his hot mouth pressing against her skin. She could have had more time with him if she had only seized that moment, before he pulled away.
Levy's eyes were closing again, her cheeks beginning to burn as the idea took shape in her mind, in the form of new images and sensations. His large body was behind her own, as if he had just slipped inside the shower unheard. His hand was settling over the soft wet flesh of her stomach, as she felt his nakedness flush against her own. The water was running over the both of them, as Gajeel ran his hands up and down over her torso, the stiffness of his length was pressing into her from behind, making her melt into his size as she took a shallow breath.
"Levy…" She heard him say her name like a low growl. She couldn't breathe well enough to speak back, which was fine, because he would have cut her off with the swiftness of his next move. His one hand was catching her under the chin and pushing her head back violently, so that she was forced to angle it back and look up towards him. Her wet hair was falling against his abdominals as her face now looked up into his. The heat of his breath was drawing near, as he brought his mouth down to push over hers. Levy's form was stiffening with the anticipation of his kiss, so breathless and stimulated by it that she couldn't even move. That was when she heard his voice again. "Open yer eyes." He demanded and it was just as she did that, that it was all over.
Gajeel was gone and she was alone, her eyelashes were soaking wet with the water of the shower that was raining down over her face. Her body was in the position of fantasy. Her face angled up as she let out a staggered breath, the left-over feeling was still sitting on high in her stomach. Leaving her both deeply disturbed and turned on by it, so much so that her head snapped down. Her hand slapped against the facet of the shower, turning off the running water with great force, frustrated by her own musings.
Levy flung open the curtain of the shower, eyeing the door to the bathroom with a raised eyebrow. While it was true that her and Gajeel's night was over, that didn't mean that they couldn't be together physically for the remaining time they had left with each other. Once Gajeel left, then that would be the opportune time for it to truly be done, but until then… The wheels in Levy's mind were turning, making her act as she reasoned it all out. Why couldn't they take pleasure in each other once more?
Levy was grabbing her towel off the rack and wrapping it over her dripping wet body, her eyes going back to the door. She tied it around herself as images of herself taking it off before Gajeel played through her mind. She was suddenly feeling very brave, her body still fevered with the motivation of her fantasy and her memories of him. She reached for the door to the bathroom, gripping the knob and opening it slowly. She hesitated before stepping out, her nerves starting to interfere, but the pit inside of her was far too desperate to relive him, so she couldn't stop.
"Gajeel…?" She began to speak softly, one hand gripping at her towel as she made her presence known to the small room that was her apartment.
Levy paused, her feet frozen as she began to look around the tiny room. All of the pent up sexual tension she had just been feeling, was deflating from her small form through a series of chills. Her wet skin was riddled with bumps as the coolness of the clear air, inside that room swept over her. Gajeel was nowhere to be found, his boots gone as well.
Levy's mouth fell open, the air stuck like a thick paste, before she finally choked out an exasperated breath. Her eyes were darting around in disbelief, was he truly gone?
But… he… Her mind was stuttering as she tried to wrap her head around it. He told me I could look at his stitches again… She thought, the dread of realization was hitting her like a slap in the face, the sting resounding as Levy's pulse continued to beat frantically.
He really had left. The only sign she could even find of him ever having been there was his abandoned cup of coffee. Which he had hardly drank, almost as if he had put it down as soon as she had started her shower. Levy swallowed hard, finally managing to pant out a few more breaths. After everything that had happened, Gajeel had really done this to her. He had disappeared, leaving her behind with not a trace, just like all of the others, all of his conquests.
Levy's eyes moved down to the floor in shame, suddenly feeling like the biggest idiot in the world. Why was she acting surprised? Hadn't she seen this coming? She must have been stupid not too… Her mind was hearing all of the words he had said to her the night before. It all just seemed so fabricated now, almost as if she had made the whole thing up, just like the fantasy.
Why the hell did I let myself believe you Gajeel…? She wondered. I must be a fool to think you wouldn't do this to me… Especially when I know you as well as I do… Levy was shaking her head at all of the miserable thoughts, before she looked back towards the ceiling with a roll of her eyes. She let out a heavy sigh.
"Levy… You knew this was coming…" She replied sadly. It was true that it had crossed her mind that he might ditch her, as she knew it was very much in the realm of possibilities for someone like Gajeel. But still… For whatever reason, she hadn't expected it like this. She had at least thought, she'd get to say goodbye to him.
"I guess… I just thought… He'd at least keep his word about letting me check his leg…" She mumbled, closing her eyes as she felt the worry of infection wash over her for the umpteenth time. Please be careful Gajeel… Wherever you are… She opened her eyes; her innermost thoughts were beginning to scold her for such a line of thinking.
Stop…! Stop worrying over him Levy!… You idiot... He's a jerk! Even if he did save you… Levy tilted her head; guilt and confusion making her bring a hand up to her stomach. She hadn't any idea what to think of Gajeel now and the inner turmoil of it, was making her feel sick. Levy shook her head, hopelessness settling in as she brought a hand up to the pulsing cut on her temple. You've got other things to worry about… You've got to find a way to work today…
"Right…" She answered her own thoughts out loud, as a way to bring her strength. Her sights were coming back up, that was when something caught the corner of her eye. Wait…
Levy's head snapped back over in the direction of her desk and there on the surface lay Gajeel's black brass knuckles, completely forgotten about. Levy's eyes narrowed in on them, confusion and fear gripping at her, as she stared at the objects unsure of what to make of them, and what it could it possibly mean.
Gajeel was stepping out of the cab, his sights settling over the old white-bricked building that was the police station. His brow lowered as he slammed the car door shut behind him. He staggered out onto the curve; his robust arms were clenching on either side of his large frame, as he eyed the station intently.
It was just a building away, located on the busy street corner of downtown, on the southern side of Magnolia. People were walking around, wearing light jackets and carrying shopping bags as they moved about their day. There was a restaurant across the street, with large bay windows full of people enjoying Sunday lunch. Gajeel stood among them, completely stationary as he contemplated his next move. A visual thorn when pitted against the average citizens of Magnolia, his glowering and heavily pierced face not meant for the light of the sun.
"…Gajeel…." A hissing reached his ears, making his eyes narrow as his head shifted from side to side in search of the owner of the voice. That was when he spotted a figure he recognized, standing just to his left in a narrow alleyway.
The man was of average height and build, but his chest was well defined. The most noticeable feature about him was his unique two-toned hair. The majority of it was a rich black, but there was also a large section of it that was a sleek, polar white. It was pulled back into an almost samurai like ponytail with the exception of his sweeping bangs. The structure of his face was well balanced; youthful cheeks and a sharp protruding chin. His skin was pale and his eyes were so dark that they looked black. He was wearing black slacks with a white dress shirt tucked into them; the sleeves were rolled up to his elbows. He was also dawning a tie around his neck and a shoulder holster armed with two guns and a shiny badge, pinned to the belt of his pants.
He stood there, matching eyes with Gajeel, before glancing around uneasily to make sure nobody was watching them. He made a small hand gesture, before disappearing further into the alleyway. Gajeel shook his head with a roll of his eyes, before striding forwards, as best as his bad leg would allow him too. He slid into the alleyway, finally stopping just before the person who had summoned him there.
Gajeel's back was facing the wall of one of the building's they were standing between, as he turned to face the man who was shooting him an impatient glare. Gajeel's own face was falling into a disgusted scowl, not seconds later.
"Couldn't ya find a better spot Totomaru? This place reeks!" Gajeel choked out. His nose was scrunching up at the stench of a dumpster that sat beside them, he shook his head with a gag. Totamaru's brow shot up at this, his eyes widening in disbelief.
"Are you kidding me Gajeel?! Hell no!" Totomaru snapped back. "We shouldn't even be meeting at all! So just hurry up and tell me whatever it is, that you want, because I haven't heard a damn thing about receiving a call from you…" The tail end of his sentence was drifting as he couldn't help, but notice how Gajeel was shifting his weight from one foot to the other, in discomfort. His teeth were also biting down, as he seethed in pain. That was when Totomaru finally noticed the patch of dry blood in the fabric of Gajeel's pants. "Hey… What the hell happened to your leg?" He asked, his eyes staying glued to the spot of blood. Gajeel clenched his jaw, his head whipping up violently at the man before him, with a look of warning.
"Nothin'! Just answer my questions!" Gajeel growled. His words were so rapid that Totomaru just looked up at him bewildered by it. "Is there a case involving the Celestial Night Club!? Shoulda been a battery charge, or an attempted murder on a man… or both…"
"Uh…" Totomaru began, feeling put on the spot.
"Think damn it!" Gajeel raged, his patience nonexistent.
"Wait yea! That was Ichiya's new case!" Gajeel's eyes widened, a small bit of relief was fueling him at this news, as he then closed them. At least I'm in the right place… He breathed out a little. It's a start… He was thinking, "Wait a second… Why are you asking? Were you involved in that?" Totomaru asked, interrupting Gajeel from his thoughts with a raised eyebrow.
"Doesn't matter!" Gajeel answered back as he opened his eyes. "I need you ta get a piece of evidence fer me! A cell phone that was found at the club, you understand?!" Gajeel demanded, his voice full of urgency.
"What?! No! How the hell am I supposed to do that?!" Totomaru questioned back.
"Yer in there! I don't care how! Just fuckin do it Totomaru!" Gajeel demanded, his stare was hardening on the officer, as he clenched a fist. "What the fuck is the point of havin' you in there, otherwise!?" Gajeel added. His anger was spiraling into a whirlwind of spite, as he spat each word like rapid fire. Totomaru's hands were whipping to his sides out of frustration at Gajeel's irrational request.
"I can't Gajeel! I don't know what fucking world you live in, but I can't just take another detective's case evidence!" Totomaru shouted back. "Besides, what the hell do you need it for?! What did you do?!" Totomaru barraged, as he threw an accusing finger back in Gajeel's direction "Obviously, Jose doesn't know about this! I would have heard about it if he did!" Totomaru added, his hand dropping. "I can only imagine how angry he will be, once he finds out whatever the hell it is, that you are up to!" Totomaru stopped, his head was going back as he took Gajeel in with a gloating expression. "Imagine his disappointment! His number two keeping secrets from him!" Totomaru couldn't help, but smirk. "How the mighty have fallen…" He added quietly as he leaned forwards, earning him a look of death.
There was no time to react as Gajeel's hand came reaching forwards, like lightning. His fingers were tensing around the front of Totomaru's dress shirt as he yanked the smaller man forwards, towards him, so that their faces nearly touched, eyes deadlocked. Gajeel's fangs were jutting out as he seethed, the beast unleashed.
"So brave behind your threats…" His words were low and icy as he watched Totomaru's eyes widen. Then without warning Gajeel was shoving Totomaru's back against the dumpster. Knocking the wind out of him, as his hand still gripped at the fabric of his supposed comrade's, dress shirt. "You are goin' to do what I say damn it!" Totomaru groaned as Gajeel pushed on him further "Or am I gonna have ta fuckin kill you Totomaru?!" Gajeel roared, his eyes blazing. You will help me, you fuck head or you will know fear…
Gray had just made his way out of the sister station of Magnolia. His work with the odd detective Ichiya finally over, leaving him with nothing to show for it, but a pounding headache. His dark eyes were still adjusting to the bright light of afternoon, after having been inside for hours listening to Ichiya's suave voice and watching a whole series of the little man's strange poses.
Man… Doesn't that guy ever let up…? He thought with a scowl as he walked down the street, away from the bustle that surrounded the station. It's a wonder they get anything done over there… He couldn't help but think, as he realized how much time had gone by. His brain was drifting back to his partner Elfman, whom he had kept waiting.
What a waste of time… Gray's mind added with a shake of his head and a sorrowful sigh. He had really been hoping to get some meaningful experience. Especially considering Ichiya's status, but that just hadn't been the case. If anything, the whole thing had just been a big distraction, keeping him from his real work. At this rate how would he ever get promoted?
Just as the thought entered Gray's mind a loud crashing sound invaded his ears, followed by shouts. Gray's eyes widened as he was very near the source, it sounded like it was echoing just a few feet ahead.
Gray sprinted forwards, his head turning back and forth in search, as he gritted his teeth. Where… Where are you?! His hands lowered instinctively over the gun at his side as he ran forwards, before finally hearing another shout. The words were clearly a threat as he had distinctively heard someone say the word, 'kill'.
Gray stopped as realization hit him, the alleyway! He had just passed it, and he could still hear the echoes resonating. He turned back swiftly, his back pressing up against the corner of one of the buildings. His ears were alert and then he heard the voices. One was menacing and the other was drenched in fear. He pulled out his gun, holding it up and ready. Gray didn't wait to hear what they were actually saying. His body was moving around the corner quickly. His arms were going down with the gun out in front. His eyes widened as he hesitated to speak.
One of the men he saw was a face he recognized from the station he had just been inside and the other was a large scary looking figure he had never seen before. The larger one, clearly had the officer on the ropes.
Gray's hands tightened around his gun. His teeth were biting down, as fear gripped at him. He knew he might need to shoot this man. It looked as if he was assaulting the officer, but the problem with that was… Gray swallowed, his eyes wide. He wasn't sure he could actually do it.
"DON'T MOVE!" He finally shouted, finding his voice behind all of the fear. Both figures paused, not having been aware that they were being watched.
Totomaru and Gajeel's eyes widened, at the third voice in the alleyway. Both of them, had been caught off guard. Neither one knowing what to do for the moment.
"PUT THE OFFICER DOWN!" Gray managed to get out between breaths; he could feel his heart beating right through and out of his chest. "OR I'LL SHOOT!" He then threatened.
Gajeel was sitting there in disbelief at his terrible luck, knowing he was dead for sure. There wasn't any reason why this officer shouldn't shoot him down, right where he stood, what with being caught like this, in such a compromising position. Attacking another cop and yet, the shots never rang.
Totomaru's head shifted so he could get a better look at the man, who had his gun aimed at Gajeel's back. His thoughts finally clearing, after getting over the fact that he had been spotted with Gajeel. He was feeling some slight relief once he saw that it was only Gray, who was pointing the gun at them. So, long as the young officer didn't know what was going on, the situation still seemed redeemable in his eyes.
"Don't shoot!" Totomaru shouted. He could see Gray's fear as he held the gun tightly. He could tell Gray had never shot anyone before, just from the look of terror in his dark eyes, let alone killed anyone. We might just be able to get out of this… "Not if you can't keep your hands steady!" Totomaru added, genuinely not wanting to be shot.
My… My hands…? They're… Gray's thoughts were speaking as his arms stayed locked in place, his eyes were darting down, as they widened in disbelief.
His hands were trembling! He hadn't even realized it, until the other officer had pointed it out. But… How?! No! This can't be! How can I be this scared?! I'm finally seeing some real action and I- I can't handle it?! Gray's thoughts were screaming.
Gajeel had taken that opportunity to turn his head around and look at Gray, as the young officer battled with himself internally. His hands were slowly letting go of the fabric on Totomaru's shirt. His arms were moving up and away from him, his palms and fingers were opening.
"I'm lettin' go!" Gajeel yelled back, finally gaining Gray's attention back. Gray watched, his eyes narrowing and his hands tensing, as he tried to gain control over his own body that was betraying him. Gajeel was slowly moving his hands up behind his head; they rested against his mane. "Don't shoot!" Gajeel shouted.
Totomaru waited until Gajeel's hands were up and behind his head, before he finally jumped into action. Gray tensed as he watched Totomaru straighten up and step around Gajeel, without a moment's hesitation. His hands whipping up and grabbing Gajeel's one arm down, both arms locking from his shoulder down to around Gajeel's waist, like a seatbelt. His tight grip allowing him to pull Gajeel's larger body down, twisting him with the other arm so that he was forced, face first, onto the cement. Totomaru then held the large man there, his own body pressed over the top of Gajeel's back. He had Gajeel's one arm twisted behind his back as well, before he glanced back up at Gray.
"Got cuffs!?" Totomaru questioned hastily. Gray stood there, shaking his head out of amazement and then irritation out of his own uselessness. He put his gun away, before reaching down and grabbing the cuffs off of his belt and running forwards.
Gajeel sat there underneath Totomaru, glaring and seething in pain. Forced to just sit there and take it, as the stitches in his leg burned. They were cuffing his wrists together and then forcing him up on his knees. He groaned heavily, as they forced him the rest of the way up. The movement being far too painful, as he got to his feet with both officers pulling at his elbows. Totomaru started to push Gajeel forwards, but Gray's voice stopped him.
"Wait, we've got to search him." Gray spoke as he came forwards. Totomaru rolled his eyes at this, once Gray wasn't looking at him. The other officer was beginning the pat down.
Great! We are screwed…! Damn rookies! Always playin' by the rules… Totomaru cringed in worry. He knew Gajeel was bound to have his pair of brass knuckles hidden somewhere on his person, as if they weren't already in enough trouble as it was, without the illegal weapon on hand. He wasn't sure how exactly he would get Gajeel out of this, but he knew he was going to have to find a way, even if he wasn't really fond of him.
Gajeel could feel himself swallowing as he closed his eyes regretfully. He was going to be arrested. Not only that, but once they found his weapons, they would have even more charges to rack up against him. Would they even be able to connect him to Thibault? How the hell would he be able to do anything for Levy if he was sitting idly by, behind bars? He couldn't even help himself out of trouble! Everything was falling far out of Gajeel's control and he was internally panicking over the whole situation, that was until he heard the other officer speak.
"He's clean." Gray chimed, making Gajeel's eyes open wide in shock. The memory was hitting him like the force of a blunt object; he hadn't grabbed them! He had been in such a frenzy to get Levy's phone back, that he had left his brass knuckles right there on her desk, without a second thought. Never in his life had he ever done anything like that! Leaving unarmed, his own evidence out for just anyone to find… In the worse of all places, no doubt. In Levy's apartment.
He was supposed to be keeping her out of all of this and he was doing horribly! He couldn't understand why either. Normally he was so level headed, but ever since last night, he had been letting anger drive him recklessly forward and it was costing him dearly. Not just him, but maybe her as well!
Gajeel was closing his eyes again, his head going up, as the air slid out of his throat. He didn't know if leaving the brass knuckles behind was a curse or a blessing as he was now being arrested, so not having an illegal weapon was probably good, but leaving them with Levy was awful. So much, for no more mistakes… His thoughts were interrupted as he realized the officer was addressing him.
"What happened to your leg? There is dry blood." Gajeel's eyes deadlocked to the dark cool ones of the young officer. "Are you injured?" Gray asked, but Gajeel kept his lips sealed, his silence earning a sigh from Totomaru.
"Just read him his rights kid, he isn't gonna talk." Gray shifted his gaze to Totomaru, who was holding onto Gajeel's arm. He turned away from the two rattling off the words he knew so well, his mind elsewhere as he said them.
This might be a real case, assaulting an officer, the blood… Who is this guy? Gray wondered as he glanced down and stepped forward. He could hear Totomaru forcing Gajeel to walk behind him. His eyes were looking over his own hand, but what does it even matter if I can't keep my cool? His thoughts questioned as he closed his hand into a tight fist, his head lifting up towards the patch of sky he could see between buildings. I'm sorry… I promise I'll be better… I won't let you down… Ur…
Levy was scurrying forward, the wind whisking through her blue hair, her cheeks reddening against the cold as she rounded the street corner. She inhaled sharply and quickly pivoted her foot to avoid running into a man who was walking by, his coat just brushing past her. He didn't bother to stop moving but, managed to shoot her a glare from over his shoulder.
"Sorry…" She muttered quietly after nearly being trampled, a pant escaping her lips. The sky had become overcast as the afternoon played out and it was beginning to drizzle. The air was cold, but not cold enough for the light precipitation to become snow.
Levy bit down, her eyebrows lowering and her forehead crinkling with worry. I think I'm running late… She thought as the location finally came into view, 8-Island, the restaurant she worked at. There really was no way for Levy to know the time, seeing as she didn't own a watch or have her phone.
She was moving into a jog, her apron and waitressing book tucked securely under her one arm. The air was chilling her legs as she trotted; the uniform she was dawning was an orange dress, the skirt only just reaching a few inches down her thighs. The stockings were tall over her legs, but their thin fabric did little to protect her from the elements. Her loose hair was bouncing with the movement of her steps. The headband that matched her uniform was clutched tightly between her fingers, inside the warmth of her coat pocket as she reached the door. She brought both arms up against it, struggling with all of her weight to push it open with her tiny frame.
Finally, she stumbled her way in, the heat and smell of food greeting her upon entry. She caught her balance, standing upright and glancing around the lobby of the restaurant unsuspectingly. She could hear the buzz of conversation from visiting patrons, but luckily nobody seemed to have noticed her clumsy entrance in the dim lighted room. Levy let out a sigh, her eyes going downcast as she gathered her bearings, prepared for a potential lashing from Mr. Yajima incase she was late.
"Levy…?" Came a familiar voice. Levy glanced up; there at the top of the small set of stairs, just past the lobby, stood two people she knew well.
Both of them were wearing the customary black and white dress attire, which was the male uniform for waiters who worked under Mr. Yajima. One had pale skin, while the other had a much darker complexion. The paler of the two was built very skinny, while the darker one was rather round and fat, the skinner one having been the person to speak Levy's name. He was a carrot top, his hair tied up into a short spiky ponytail that resembled a little palm tree. His name was Sarusuke, but everyone knew him as Jet, as that was the nickname that had followed him throughout high school and beyond. The other fatter person, was Droy, his hair was a black stem that stood up like a little plant, its drooping bud hanging over his head.
Jet and Droy had known Levy for years, meeting her shortly after her parent's deaths in a tragic car accident. These events causing Levy to move in with the grandparents on her mother's side, as her father hadn't had many living relatives left. Their house had been on the same street as Jet and Droy's. The two boys were best friends and attending elementary school together when Levy showed up.
Levy had been pretty lonely during this time, despite the nurturing love of her grandparents. She was only eight years old and so she devoted herself to reading all of the time, to keep her mind occupied. Jet and Droy most definitely noticed her and finally one day at school, they finally approached her. From that day forth, they became inseparable, both boys following Levy everywhere, filling her with joy, as she had greatly needed their company. As they grew, this didn't change, Levy seemingly taking charge, as both boys fell for her adorable charms, working wherever she did. Picking the same college as her, once she had her heart set on Mavis University. The school Makarov had formed, an old friend of her late grandfather's.
Jet and Droy had been there for her through the passing of both of Levy's grandparents and had now even ended up working at the same restaurant as her. They were always there for her when she needed them and she appreciated them deeply for this reason, but her feelings for them, had never gone anything past friendship. She had always viewed them more like brothers than anything, despite knowing that they both were infatuated with her, sometimes causing them to bicker and fight like children.
"Hey…" She replied softly, glancing down in shame as guilt consumed her. She had basically been ignoring them all week. She had been so upset by their actions from the previous weekend and the bit of chaos it had caused her afterwards. It all seemed rather petty now, after everything else she had just gone through… She couldn't help but feel bad for being angry with them about it now. She looked back up at them as they dawned her with deeply concerned faces. "Guys… I'm sorry…" She began. "For being mad… I'm over it." Both boys were on Levy, before the words had hardly left her mouth, surrounding her with wide eyes, as they looked over her fearfully.
"Don't worry about that! What are you even doing here?! And what the heck happened to you?!" Droy interjected before she could even say anything else.
Levy matched wide eyes with him, all of her worries coming forth as she thought about last night. He couldn't know about any of what had happened, could he?! But then why was he looking at her, like he did…? She was staring at them completely tongue-tied, her complexion paling. How could she possibly explain it, when she couldn't even comprehend it all herself?
"Levy?!" Droy questioned. Both of their faces were leaned in close to hers, in wait for her reply. "What happened?" He asked again, more calmly, his hand gesturing towards her face. Levy watched them completely perplexed and full of shock, her eyes gliding over to Jet, as his hand was coming up to settle over his own temple.
"Your head Levy!" Jet added, his hand landing on the spot of her wound on his own head. "You're bleeding! Or… You were!" Levy mirrored Jet as he said this, her eyes still locked to his, her fingers gliding over the scabbed skin absent-mindedly.
She hadn't covered it…? She had meant to, she had meant to put some kind of bandage over the large cut on her head, but had somehow managed to forget, while in her flustered hurry, to get ready. She hadn't wanted to walk around town with it exposed, for all the world to see how awful it looked.
"It's…" She began, not knowing what to say, now that they had seen it. "I…" She tried again, words failing her. "Fell." She got out forlornly. Her eyes and hand dropped down at the poor excuse, causing both Jet and Droy to exchange exasperated expressions to one another, before they turned back towards her.
"How….?! How the heck did you manage that?!" Jet questioned.
"Yea… and we tried to call you today! Many times! You never answered!" Droy spat.
"Yea… We didn't know if you were still just mad… Or if you needed a ride today… But we were pretty worried that we didn't hear back from you at all, on a work day!" Jet continued as Levy stayed quiet, her eyes still downcast, refusing to look back up at them. They both paused, waiting for her to reply in suspense, once more.
"I lost it…" Was all she managed, making Jet slap a hand to his forehead and Droy's mouth to fall open.
"Well… Are you okay?!" Droy asked, looking over her as Levy glanced back up at him.
"I made it here, didn't I?" She answered lightly, trying to stay level headed. "I mean… I'm just a little late, that's all…" She added. She was trying to summon the courage needed to ease their worries.
"Late?" Jet replied, his eyebrow arching as Levy looked to him with confusion.
"Yea… Well I thought… Maybe…" She choked out.
"Uh… You're not late Levy." Droy answered as he scratched his chubby cheek.
"What…? But isn't it past four?" Levy asked.
"Um… No…" Jet replied tentatively, folding his arms, as he eyed her completely perplexed. "It's only 2 o'clock Levy... Droy and I were working doubles today and we were supposed to come get you on our break… And besides, you don't work at four… You weren't supposed to come on until five tonight… " His response made Levy's eyes widen. She shifted her stare back down, her head hanging in misery.
I… I must be losing it… She couldn't help but think, as she let out a heaving breath. Okay, so maybe she couldn't keep it together as much as she had tried, she was stillfalling apart. It couldn't really be helped, considering her crazy circumstances and she really had been doing all right, up until the point Gajeel had walked out on her. His disappearance being the thing to really throw her for a loop, as getting ready and traveling were hardly memorable to her after he had left.
Gajeel had been the one thing keeping her calm throughout the whole venture, because she hadn't felt so alone while in his presence. His constant assurance and confidence in such situations, being very much needed along with the distraction he provided, but after he was gone… She was left with nothing to keep her head from swelling with it all, leaving her in a state of haze. His sudden absence fueling the last bit of air needed, to cause her blimp of a head to burst.
Levy shook herself out of such thoughts, knowing she shouldn't dwell on it and she really was trying not to, but she felt like a complete and utter mess at the moment. She looked up to her two oldest friends, who were both eyeing her carefully as if unsure of what she would say next. Her mouth opened to speak, but she couldn't think at all, no words forming.
"Levy?" Droy started. "You really don't look so good right now… Are you feeling okay?" He asked.
"What was I? Was I supposed to…?" She stuttered. Her hand going up to her forehead, as she tried to pull words from her normally loaded vocabulary. Jet stood up straight, as he watched her struggle.
"Uh… Okay." Jet began, with finality in his voice. "Uh… Droy, go speak with Mr. Yajima. Tell him Levy isn't feeling good, so she won't be coming in tonight… And that I need to take my break now… Cause I'm going to go drive her home. Cover my last two tables… They're just about done anyways. One should be asking for the check any minute now. " Jet ordered, making Droy nod at him.
"Right! Okay!" He cheered. "Take care of Levy, that's most important!" He added a hand on his best friend's shoulder. Jet nodded at him in response, before Droy ran off. Levy watched Droy disappear with a mesmerized stare, her eyes meeting Jet's black ones, as his gaze hardened on her.
"I don't know what's going on with you Levy, but you are definitely not okay… You can't work like this." He scolded, his eyebrows lowering. Levy's stare faltered, as she knew he was absolutely right. She didn't know what she was thinking anymore, she needed time to sort things out and luckily, he was a good enough friend to see that when she couldn't. "Wait here… I'm going to go clock out and get my coat and keys… Then we're out of here." He ordered, turning away to go do as he said.
"Thank you, Jet…" Levy murmured, as Jet strode away. He hadn't bothered her anymore for the moment, but she could tell from the look in his eye that it wasn't over. He was definitely going to be asking her far more in the car, but the issue was that she couldn't tell him anything… Even as much as she wanted to…
I'm sorry… Levy's thoughts apologized to Jet's retreating back; tears that didn't shed were stinging at her eyes. It'll be okay… It isn't the first time you've kept secrets from them… Her thoughts reminded her, but somehow that didn't bring her any comfort, as she thought about each time she had met Gajeel and kept his existence in her life, nonexistent.
A woman was standing before the Pegasus Blue Police station, an intense yet calm stare, unmatched by any other, pervading over the building with her large cobalt eyes. Her face was a mask, flawlessly white and devoid of emotion, while partially hidden in the cover of a pink parasol, as the light rain fell around her. Her features were elegant and almost doll like in nature. Her hair was a soft blue that hung down like waves, curling back up like the tide and framing her face perfectly.
She was wearing a tall navy, winter hat and a long winter-like dress coat, with long sleeves and beige fur at the ends of them. She was dawning a small navy shall, that also had beige fur at its hem. It hung over her shoulders and reached up, concealing most of her neck. Perhaps her strangest item though, was the small white cloth she had hanging from her shall. It was a little ball with a face stitched into it. It's overall appearance resembling that of a tiny handmade ghost.
This was Juvia Lockser, a woman of supposed great misfortune, as it was said she had been abandoned by everyone, but the rain, before Jose came into her life. What many didn't know though, was that Gajeel was the only reason Jose had even found her and so that was why she was there. To fulfill her roll and help out her friend, who had landed himself into some major trouble.
She walked on, her movements serene as she glided like water, through the doors of the station. She closed her umbrella upon entering, shaking the drops of rain off, before stashing it away in the side pocket of the bag she had draped over her one shoulder. She made her way through security politely; her heightened gaze carrying over the room, taking in its every detail quietly.
She was keeping her eyes peeled for any sign of Totomaru, him being the one she wished to speak to. He had been the one to call and summon her there on Gajeel's behalf, but he was nowhere in sight. Finally, a large window came into view, Gajeel was sitting at a table on the other side of it. His arms folded, as he looked very impatient. The room he was in, was empty and very plain as it was used for interrogation.
Juvia stepped up before the glass; Gajeel was looking upwards, his sights set on the ceiling. His foot was tapping as he sat there in wait, with knees apart, seemingly antsy. She knew he couldn't see her, as it was a one-way mirror. She could hear footsteps approaching, so she turned away from the window.
"Hello…" She spoke, addressing the man before her. "My name is Juvia Lockser… I am the legal advisor for Mr. Redfox…" Her words drifted seamlessly, her voice wrought with distance.
"Really…? Should have known I guess… Since he wasn't talking and stuff…" Gray replied, mumbling the last part, as he scratched the back of his head. His hand dropped down, as he eyed her suspiciously. "But… He hasn't even made a call yet…" Gray added, his voice darkening out of uncertainty.
"You must be the arresting officer…" Juvia responded calmly. "I insist you let me speak to my client, in private…" She demanded, though her words were dreamy, they still held a certain edge to them as well. Gray's face pulled into a deep scowl. The threatening demeanor she possessed was not lost on him. He looked over her relaxed expression, yet profound stare, with a foreboding glance of his own.
"Listen lady… I don't know how you knew to come here already…" His tone was deepening with danger as he stepped forward. "Besides the point… You go ahead and do what ya want…" Juvia hastened, as Gray came near. "But don't be expecting us to let him go…" Gray's eyebrows lowered as he continued. "Not when I first handedly, caught him assaulting one of the officers, who works here…" His superior height was allowing him to look down upon her, with how close they were standing. "His stonewalling won't save him… And neither can you…" Gray pointed at Juvia, his dominance shining, unaffected by her proud stance. "He'd be better off, for settling on a plea deal." His words were coming out like ice, as he leaned in closer to her face. "I'll put him away myself…" He finished defiantly as he pointed at his own chest with his thumb.
The reverberation of his voice was so low and quiet as he scowled at her threateningly, his gaze ruthless and unforgiving. Juvia's eyes actually widened as they matched stares. She could feel the chill of his intent moving through her, as they stood only a mere foot apart, feet planted.
Finally, after a solid thirty seconds of staring, Gray straightened back up to his full height, his lip curling up at her silence. A slight shade of pink was tinting Juvia's cheeks; Gray imagined it was out of anger. He watched her move closer; he braced himself for a comeback of equally impending words to rival his own, but was doubly surprised when her feet instead, carried her right past him.
"Well okay… I guess I won't bother then!" She called back from over her shoulder. Her voice was light, contrary to how it had sounded not minutes before, when she was making demands. Gray's eyes widened and his mouth fell open in shock, as he watched her retreat back the way she came.
"Wa-Wait!? Where are you going?!" Gray hollered after her.
Why… Why is my heart beating so fast? Juvia was questioning, her eyes going downcast, as she stayed turned away from him. Her hand was resting over her heart; she could feel the rapid rhythm of it inside her chest. Her face was warming as she pictured the young officer's determined face, once more.
Something about the look in his eye resonated within her, waking something from deep within. She had been able to read him and she had never once seen anyone look at her like that before. It was somewhat intimidating and yet she found it admirable as well, like he wouldn't back down no matter what. As if his first impression of her was one of meaning and it was…
He viewed her as a very real obstacle and so, he needed to come on strong in order to scare her away. Juvia wasn't used to people seeing her at all, let alone standing up to her as if she was a force to be reckoned with. Treating her as an equal and worthy opponent. She normally just blended in, like a single drop of rain among a downpour.
"Wait Juvia!" She heard him call after her and she paused. Her head was going up, as her fingers squeezed into a tight fist. He had remembered her name. Not only that, but she couldn't help, but feel tinge of joy at the sound of his voice saying it.
I… I've never felt this way before… Juvia's mind recognized as she turned back around. He was trotting back towards her, his eyes wide over her own, once he stopped. Juvia's blush was very apparent now as she watched him with mouth slightly agape, waiting for him to speak. She felt out of breath, as her eyes suddenly took notice of how attractive his features were.
"Oh… Sorry Mrs.-was it, Lockser?" He was questioning, Juvia's eyes immediately fell away from his face.
"It's just Miss… But Juvia is fine…" She looked back up towards him, her voice soft. "In fact, I prefer that." She added, making eye contact with him.
"Ah… Okay… Well…" Gray spoke, his hand going up behind his head, as if he was embarrassed. He glanced away as he continued. "If you leave, we'll have to elect our own attorney for your client." Gray paused. "So… Can't imagine that going over well…" Gray matched eyes with her again. "You better go talk to him… It's within your rights after all."
Juvia's eyes widened, why was he being so nice now?! She didn't understand, was he maybe just a good person? He was a policeman after all, but she didn't know most cops to be friendly towards attorneys, who were there to get criminals back on the streets. She looked towards him in awe, unsure of what to say or do.
You came here to get Gajeel out remember…? Her thoughts reminded her. Oh right… She looked back towards the young officer before her, besides, it's not as if you are actually going to get to know this guy... Yes… I need to focus on the task at hand. It is my duty… She thought, her eyebrows lowering in determination.
"Yes… Then I shall." She spoke suddenly. She was again stepping forward, brushing past him, making Gray's expression change to one of shock as he watched her B-line it towards the interrogation room.
What's with this chick…? Gray was questioning with a raised eyebrow, as she once again, took on a detached demeanor. She stopped just before the door, her hand on the knob as she looked back towards him. His eyes widened as he noted her emotionless stare once more.
"No listening in." She ordered, the edge to her voice had returned. Gray's mouth fell open as if he was about to speak, but she was quickly disappearing behind the door before he could. He watched it slam shut, his head shaking in confusion, his teeth coming together.
"That was weird…" He muttered out loud. This day just keeps getting stranger and stranger… He couldn't help but think, with a sigh as he thought about the club, the peculiar detective Ichiya and then the incident in the alleyway that had landed him there.
Still… The name Redfox… Why's it seem so familiar to me? I know I've never met that guy before… Because l sure as hell, would remember a man who looked like that... Gray wondered as he pictured Juvia speaking to him in regards to their suspect, Gajeel Redfox. Hmm… How does someone like her, end up defending someone like him…? Gray paused out of confusion, no apparent answer available to him, but one thought remaining supreme.
Juvia… His mind repeated, as he imagined her face once more. Beautiful name for an odd woman.
Juvia slammed the door behind her shut, her back falling against it. She was weak in the knees and quivering with pent up emotion. Her sights were on the ceiling, her brain caught somewhere between fantasy and panic as her face practically glowed red. She opened her mouth just to breathe, almost as if she needed to remember how.
He… He's so amazing… Her mind was swooning, as she shuddered. I can't believe I just spoke to him like that! Will he ever forgive me?! She questioned in great concern now, as she thought about the way she had yelled at the handsome, dark haired officer, who she hadn't learned the name of just yet. I'll have to do something to make it up to him! Oh, but there's so much I don't know… So, what could I possibly do?! We just met! Think Juvia, think!
"Rain woman?" A familiar voice sounded, breaking Juvia's train of thought, as her eyes finally matched the deep crimson ones of Gajeel. He was sitting at the table, his arms folded and a raised studded brow on her. Clearly not understanding how she had just randomly showed up, his eyes scaling over her in puzzlement. "What are ya doin' here?" He asked, his voice rough as always. "And why the hell is yer face so red?" He asked next, his tone skeptical.
Juvia could feel all traces of happiness leaving her, as she looked at him. She had basically forgotten he was even there. Gajeel's presence officially bringing her back to reality, with the same harshness that his voice carried as she once again remembered the problem she was having to deal with, because of him.
"Oh…. It's nothing!" She answered, her hands shaking in front of her. "Everything is perfectly fine…!" She added rapidly, doing a horrible job of hiding the crazy. Gajeel just shook his head at her, not really caring in the slightest, but still he found her behavior a bit odd. "Totomaru called me here…" She finally answered, her head bowing, as she fell into the normal calmness that was her personality.
For as long as Gajeel had known Juvia she had always carried herself very modestly, with little to no, outward emotion. Although he knew her well enough to know that wasn't how she really was on the inside. She was actually a very passionate human being, but she often struggled on how to portray it, because of her lack of upbringing.
"Oh yea...? Well then did ya get that other dumb cop…" Gajeel started. "What was his name…?" He questioned, his eyes shifting upwards as he pondered it. "Fullbuster… Er somethin', ta let me go?" Gajeel asked, closing his eyes upon remembering.
"Fullbuster…?" Juvia repeated softly, her cheeks still pink. "Was that his name…?" She asked lightly. Gajeel cracked open an eye at her.
"I dunno… What's it matter?" He asked. "That idiot is the whole reason I'm in here!" Gajeel was yelling with both eyes open now.
"Don't blame him, Gajeel!" Juvia snapped, a finger pointing at the man across from her with a wild fury in her tone. Her stance was strong and full of malice as if he had hurt her, with the words he had just uttered. Gajeel blinked at her in confusion, Juvia wasn't normally quick to anger. She was usually pretty stoic and used to Gajeel's blunt mannerisms, so seeing her this way, was definitely a little more than surprising for him.
"What the hell is wrong with you?! Ya like him or somethin'?!" Gajeel questioned in both disbelief and irritation. "Why the hell shouldn't I blame him?! He's the one who fuckin arrested me Juvia!" Gajeel raged back, both hands slamming down onto the table, as his voice echoed within the small room.
"No Gajeel!" Juvia countered back, equally loud. "You were careless!" She accused once again, pointing at him, making his eyes go wide as he bit down in frustration. Juvia leaned forwards, her hands bracing the table and her head nearing his some. "Totomaru told me everything! You called him for an undisclosed meeting! Then you lost your temper and were caught with your hands on him!" Her voice had quieted some, but she was still scolding him. She straightened back up, calming considerably. "You don't need me to tell you how serious this is Gajeel… You messed up and you better tell me why." Juvia finished defiantly, her eyes boring into his with the stare he knew all too well. Silence took over for a few seconds, as Juvia allowed time for her words to take heed.
Gajeel knew Juvia could read in-between the lines. She knew secrets were involved, ones she was expecting him to divulge to her, now that he was in trouble. Normally she would try and stay out of everything business related, unless her legal know-how was needed. But what she didn't know was, that this was personal.
Gajeel had been trying to use his business pull, for personal benefit and she was right, it had made him careless. Hell, he had been a walking disaster, running around town on a bum leg, in an effort to quickly and quietly clean up a mess he started, over a girl… How could anybody know about that? And worse, how was he going to fix it now? Gajeel glanced up at Juvia, her eyes were on him, as she waited patiently for him to speak.
Juvia was Gajeel's oldest friend; he had known her since he was a teenager. He had easily been able to relate to her upon meeting, as they both knew what it was like to be abandoned by those they had once considered family. Jose had taken both of them in as well. First Gajeel and then Juvia upon Gajeel's request and so, she was like a sister to him. She was one among only three people, whom he really trusted and considered his friends, one of the other three now being Levy. There wasn't anyone who knew Gajeel better. Even Master Jose, who had Gajeel's greatest respect didn't understand him like Juvia did.
If there was anyone he could count on, it was her. The idea was forming in his head, as he thought about this. He knew if he let Juvia know how dire the situation was, she would take care of it, with no questions asked. She was very capable, despite her own doubt. In fact, it was possible Juvia would more than likely have more sway over Totomaru than even Gajeel himself, as he wasn't exactly on the best of terms with the other members of Jose's organization. Many of them were jealous of his status, as he had basically become Jose's right-hand man in the shadows.
"Fine…" Gajeel seethed. "I'll explain, but first…" His head lowered, his eyes gravitating towards hers, with a very serious expression over his face. "Listen carefully and just do as I say." Juvia matched his stare with wide eyes. It was rare that Gajeel came at her like this, but when he did, she knew it was very crucial she do as he ask. She nodded.
"Speak…" She replied.
"Totomaru… I need you to talk ta him." He paused his voice was quieting. "There is a piece of evidence in this station right now, that I need him to steal back fer me… And I mean it…" His eyes widened. "He knows bout it already… It was the whole reason I was meetin' with him, but he gave me a hard time…" Juvia shook her head.
"He didn't mention that part." She replied.
"No… course not. He wouldn't… The ass…" Gajeel answered with irritation in his eyes. "I can't stress the importance of this though. It's a cell phone, that once the cops get inside… It'll just be… Really bad…"
"I see…" Juvia answered, swallowing nervously as she looked over Gajeel. Now she understood. It was incriminating evidence that the police had somehow managed to get a hold of. Of what crime, she didn't know, nor did she want too. "What makes you think he'll listen to me Gajeel?"
"He will. You are persuasive…" Gajeel answered as Juvia looked at him, doubtfully. "Well… He respects you, a lot more than me…" Gajeel added, thinking better of his previous statement.
"Maybe more than you, but enough to risk doing something like that?" Juvia asked.
"Just do it!" Gajeel demanded, taking Juvia aback with the urgency in his tone. "At least try! I'm countin' on you Rain Woman! If it comes from you, he might think it's coming from Jose! Then maybe he'll actually do it!" Gajeel added as he sat back in the chair.
"So, Jose doesn't know then?" Juvia questioned, confirming what she had already suspected.
"No." Gajeel answered firmly. "And he can't know." He added, his brow lowering. She could see the look of desperation in his hard stare. His expression of pleading, resembling that of a scowl, but Juvia knew better. He was putting all of his trust into her, by making this request. She could see he had no other option and she instinctively knew that was the only reason why he would make such a dangerous demand of her. "I know you can do this… I know ya can get that idiot to get it back fer me…." He spoke. "And I need ya ta do it now… It can't wait."
"Gajeel?!" Juvia exclaimed. She hadn't expected him to demand this of her immediately. "How can I do it now?! You're in lock up!" Gajeel pointed at the door.
"Don't worry bout me! Leave me in here all night, fer all I care, but this has gotta happen now! Before it's too late! It's already been in the cop's possession all night! I can't risk it, Juvia!" Gajeel barraged, the look on his face was jarring. Juvia had never seen him so rash and frantic before. It made her swallow past the nervous lump that had formed in her throat. What the hell had he gotten himself into?
"Well okay…" Juvia replied, making Gajeel's expression ease mildly. "But what the heck do I tell Totomaru to do with it, once he takes it?!" Juvia asked, her question making Gajeel freeze in alarm, as if he hadn't thought that far ahead.
Shit… Gajeel was thinking, his eyes darting down, once again Juvia was right. Initially he had just planned on Totomaru giving the phone back to him, but that couldn't happen if he was in lock up. He didn't like the idea of discarding it for just anyone to find, as that seemed too risky. He glanced back up at Juvia, he knew having her keep it, would be a bad idea. She was too close to everything and everyone he didn't want finding out. He needed that thing far away from everyone, where nobody would look.
His mind drifted back to Thibault's knife and how he had left it with Levy, he had known nobody would be looking for it with her, so long as his promise was kept. If he could somehow get the phone back to her, where it actually belonged, then that would be the safest and best option. Almost as if she had never lost it, but he couldn't do that with where he was now.
Wait… His mind spoke as he looked over Juvia, realization hitting him like an iron fist. He had promised to not let anyone even get a whiff of Levy's scent, in his efforts to protect her, but Juvia was the one person whom he solely trusted. He could tell her where Levy lived and count on her not to reveal it, or anything else she found out about Levy to anyone.
"I got it…" Gajeel answered, his expression was one of shock. "Got a piece of paper?" He asked urgently.
"Of course." Juvia answered. "Do you need one?" She questioned.
"I need ta write down an address." He told her, his mind picturing Levy's address that he had already memorized for the cab driver. Juvia quickly pulled out a small scrap of notebook paper and a pen for Gajeel on the table. Gajeel grabbed it and quickly jotted the number and words down. His hand was covering it, as he wrote and then he slid it over to Juvia along the table. His hand stayed over it, as he knew they were being watched. Juvia reached down to grab the paper, her eyes locked with Gajeel's once her head was near. He held her stare with a glance, of the upmost significance.
"Take it to this address." He demanded, finally lifting his palm off of the paper for Juvia to quickly scoop it up. "Tell nobody." He added firmly, as he shook his head slowly.
Juvia straightened back up and quickly glanced down at the paper with a crinkled brow, before looking back up at Gajeel. She was now very worried that she had just been pulled into something very serious and very illegal. Her dealings in Jose's business were only of the legal nature, strictly. She felt torn though, as she knew that whatever this was about, it was very important to Gajeel. He wouldn't ask her to do such a task if it wasn't, and she already felt like she owed him.
"Juvia…" He spoke again, gaining her attention back. "When ya go there… Not only do I need you to return the phone to the person who lives there… But I also need ya to grab somethin' of mine in return... My most important possessions… I left em there… Get 'em back." He explained, making Juvia's eyes widen in disbelief. She knew exactly what he was referring too and that suddenly explained a lot. Totomaru had mentioned him not having the brass knuckles when he had been arrested, which had actually been good, because it was one less charge.
"But Gajeel…? How…?" She asked. She had never known him to do anything so irresponsible, since they were kids, but Gajeel just shook his head.
"The rest will haveta come later Rain Woman… Fer now… I'm dependin' on you." Juvia froze, her eyes wide as she nodded at him, with a dazed expression over her face.
What kind of mess was this, that she was now getting involved in? Who was this man she would be seeing? Her mind pictured a fearsome looking mob boss with a suit and cigar, someone like Banaboster, but much scarier. She hadn't any idea what to expect, but the worst possible scenario. Taking evidence from the police, stealing illegal weapons back? How could she think otherwise? This… This is what I get for working for a man like Jose… Came Juvia's thoughts, as they settled over Gajeel.
"It will be done." She answered; her voice was devoid of emotion, earning her a slight smirk from Gajeel.
Like I had any doubt Rain Woman? He thought confidently. I knew I could count on you…
Gray was back on his feet, at the noise of the door opening. There stood Juvia again, her complexion actually looking paler as he approached, if that was even possible. He raised a brow, ready for an argument with the woman, a fight to get her client free, but instead she just stood there, bewildered.
"Whoa… You okay?" He actually questioned out of concern over the lost expression across her face. Juvia's eyes landed on him, as if just remembering he was there. Her mind was burdened with the mission at hand and she was a bit shaken by the stakes. Her eyes widened on him in amazement, as she noted his words to her.
"You-you are so sweet…" She answered softly, her stare going downcast. Gray was standing there dumb founded by her odd behavior. That had been the last thing, he had expected her to say to him. "Tell me Officer Fullbuster, what is your first name?" She asked suddenly, glancing back up at him. Gray's brow pushed together in confusion, as he tried to understand why she would ask him such a question. Was it some kind of attorney trick he didn't yet know about? He didn't see how it could be, so he instead decided to just answer her, as there was no obvious harm in the question that he could pick out.
"My name is Gray." He replied.
"Gray…" She repeated his name gently, her eyes staring off, almost as if she was in a world of her own. Then she looked back up at him. "Gray… I need to speak to the assaulted officer." She told him, her voice stressing the importance of her request with its weight, but unfortunately, Gray did find fault in it.
"I didn't give you permission to call me that!" He snapped, glancing away. "And no…. That's not a good idea." He replied sharply.
"It's fine." Came a third male voice from over Gray's shoulder, causing both Juvia and him to turn around and see whom it belonged to. There stood Totomaru himself. "I'll allow it." Totomaru added as he stepped closer.
"What?!" Gray exclaimed, his head tilting in confusion as his arms hung in disbelief. Juvia was already walking around Gray and stepping up towards Totomaru, with a knowing look in her eye.
"Hold tight Fullbuster. I'll be back." Totomaru replied. Gray could only watch in complete misunderstanding, as the two began to walk away. Juvia shot him one last meaningful glance from over her shoulder, as Gray stood with feet planted and jaw clenched in frustration.
Why do I feel like there's something here I'm not quite getting? He questioned internally as he watched Juvia look back ahead. His fists were forming into tight balls at his sides, not a damn thing seemed to be going right today.
It had been twenty minutes of silence and Levy knew her time was running out. Jet hadn't spoken nearly the whole drive back to her apartment and there was only about ten minutes left in their commute based on the current traffic. She could feel the tension between them as Jet just drove on. The only sounds consisting of the hum of the engine, the window shield wipers moving and the occasional gearshift as his car was a stick.
Levy knew she could very well be the one to break the awkward quietness, but she really hadn't any idea what to say, seeing as she knew she couldn't tell him what he wanted to know. She occupied herself instead with staring out the passenger side window, as Jet kept his eyes forward on the road. Finally, after what felt like an eternity Jet addressed her.
"Levy…" He began, gaining her eyes back on him. He kept his stare forward as he continued. "You know you can come to us, right? Droy and me?" He questioned. There was a pause as Levy turned her head away from him. Her eyes landing on her own hands, that were settled over her waitressing book and apron, over her lap, forlornly.
"Of course, Jet…" She answered. "I have never doubted that." She added, making him turn to look at her slightly, out of the corner of his eye.
"So…" He started. "If you were in some kind of trouble then… You'd let us know, right?" Levy's hands were tightening over the apron and book as she braced herself for the pain. She didn't want to lie to him; she wanted to do the right thing. Problem was, she wasn't sure what the right thing to do was, anymore.
"I'm okay Jet…" Came her reply. "Please don't worry." She pleaded, her head looking back up at him.
"See." He answered looking back at her, before glancing back up at the road again. "That's not what I asked." He added firmly, his tone was drenched in worry.
"Jet…" She stated his name, to keep him from pressing her further. "Please don't ask me anymore." She requested.
"But something happened!" He suddenly exclaimed, fed up with the go around from her. "I know it did! I can see it all over your face!" He added, his patience gone. "Where did that wound come from, Levy?! Did someone hurt you, it looks really bad?!" He finished, as he could no longer keep his cool.
"Don't you think I know that!" She snapped so loudly, that it made the injury on her head pulse, as all of her anger came pouring out. "I can't tell you okay! So, stop asking me now!" Her throat was stinging from the volume of her yells in the tiny car. Silence fell over them once again, the tension even worse than before, until finally Levy spoke again. "Don't…" She started, her voice cracked with the weight of tears. "Don't ask me to lie to you, because that is what you are driving me to do." She choked out.
It was true, she knew she might have to keep a secret and potentially lie to her friends, but this was a lot harder, than she had ever imagined it to be. It wasn't in her to lie normally, she wasn't raised that way and so she was poor at it for that reason. Jet could see the inner turmoil inside of her and it made him hurt as well. He looked back ahead, his eyes narrowing in sadness.
"This is serious…" He replied. "It's gotta be…" He added, as they both matched eyes. He looked truly upset; she could see a gloss film over his eyes. "Because I know you… And you wouldn't do this, if it wasn't." He said making Levy turn away and look back out the window, as she tried to keep in her own tears.
"Then as my friend… Don't push me any further." She requested, her voice wavering. "I need you guys to understand, when I ask you to drop it." Jet was looking back at the road; his thoughts were spiraling into madness.
"Only if you can promise me that it's over now, whatever 'it' is." He stated. "That however you ended up hurt, won't happen again…" He reiterated.
"It is…" She replied softly, her eyelids lowering as she felt the sting of regret for everything that had happened. "I meant it when I said I'm okay…"
"You're not." Jet scolded, making Levy turn back to look at him with her eyebrows lowered. "I've never seen you such a mess before, not since your grandparents died at least." Jet told her firmly.
"Gee… thanks." She replied bitterly, her voice dry. She knew he was right, but hearing it was hard. She felt so weak, allowing the circumstance of last night to leave her in such a state of pity.
"It's the truth." He spoke, making Levy's head hang in defeat.
"I know…" She admitted, her voice soft. "I'm sorry… I tried… I just didn't want you guys to worry."
"You don't have to be sorry, Levy. That's the last thing we want from you. Again… Just… Be okay…" Jet answered as he looked towards her, they had finally reached her street.
"I will be…" Levy replied. "You were right though… Work wasn't an option for me today. I need a little time to recover, even if it's just a day's worth of it…" Levy explained, as the car was slowing down, her building coming into view.
"Okay well… We won't bother you about it anymore, as promised, but only if you stay out of trouble…" Jet explained as he looked back at her. "And if you need anything, let us know." He added with a slight smile. The car was just coming up on the curve.
Levy smiled back, a warm feeling was building inside of her chest out of relief. She once again felt grateful for his and Droy's presence, in her life. They could sometimes get on her nerves, but they truly were her best friends.
"Yes…" She answered softly, as the car rolled to a stop, just outside the door of her apartment complex. Jet looked up, when his eye caught sight of something.
"Say Levy… Someone's outside your door… Who is that?" He asked, making Levy glance up and out the car window, as well. "One of your neighbors?"
There outside the door of her apartment complex stood a woman, whom Levy had never seen before. She was wearing blue winter-like attire and had a pink umbrella over her head, to shield her from the bit of rain that was coming down. Levy's eyebrow lifted in confusion, as she reached for the door handle of the car.
"No, I have no idea who that is…" She huffed. "I've never seen her before…" She started to open the door. "Well… Better go check it out huh? Thanks for the ride Jet."
"Wait!" Jet hollered out, as Levy stood up and got out of the car, her still loose hair was dampening, due to the falling rain. "You sure you'll be okay?" He asked, an arm reaching out toward her. Levy sighed, a soft smile over her face, making Jet blush as he looked towards her. She picked up her apron and book, her head tilting.
"Yes Jet… I'll be okay. Thank you… Now get back to work, before you're late." She prompted, making Jet just nod at her, as if in a trance.
"Right." He told her, Levy giggled lightly, shutting the car door and waving. She stood among the rain as he started to pull away, watching until he was some ways down the street, not caring that she was getting wet. She was already a wreck, what was a little water at this point?
She turned around, finally letting out a breath, her eyes on the door of her complex and the woman in question, who was still standing in front of it. Hmm… Maybe she's looking for someone? Levy thought, finally working up the nerve to walk forwards. The woman turned upon hearing Levy's footsteps, Levy paused, not wanting to get too close, as she didn't know this person. She was met with a very pronounced stare, the likes of which she had never seen, as the woman's cobalt eyes waved over her with great significance.
"Hello…?" Levy uttered timidly. The woman was beautiful, her skin very white and her hair a rich blue, that shined. Levy stepped forwards slowly, still put off by the intense emotionless look of the woman's eyes. "Can I help you with something?" She questioned politely, trying her best not to be rude.
Juvia looked over the small girl who had approached her with a blank expression. She hadn't any idea who she was, but she was certain that this was no place for someone like her. Her soft almond eyes were gracing Juvia with a hint of apprehension, as she spoke to her in a kind voice. Her efforts to be friendly were not lost on Juvia, but they concerned her, as the area they had found themselves in, didn't seem to be the safest. In fact, Juvia was sure it wasn't, considering the reason she was there. This girl was so small that Juvia couldn't even get a solid read on her age. She turned back to look at the door that she couldn't figure out how to access and then back to the girl in confusion.
"You shouldn't be here…" Juvia spoke.
Levy's eyebrows were coming together at the woman's strange words. Her voice was serene, yet still held a certain authority to it, as well. Levy maybe, should have been offended or upset by such a statement, but for some reason, she didn't sense any harm from the person before her, and so she remained calm.
"I live here…" Levy replied, her tone easy, as she took a few more steps forwards. She watched as the woman's eyes widened and her lips pursed in question, as if that hadn't been the answer she was expecting.
Juvia was looking over the large noticeable cut across the girl's temple, now that she had moved closer. The wound was rather alarming, like a smudge of dirt on a beautiful piece of art. She could see now, that the girl, though youthful, was not a child, just very petite. It still didn't explain why someone like her would live in such a dump of a place, where supposed mob activity could be going down. Perhaps this girl didn't have much to her name and was stuck? Juvia pondered the thought, but she really didn't know.
"Oh… I'm sorry." Juvia spoke gently, truly sounding regrettable for her mistake. Levy couldn't help, but smile at it, her eyes warming.
"It's okay!" She responded lightly, her eyes closing happily. Juvia stood there unsure of what to make of the response, as she had expected Levy to be angry with her for her blatant rudeness. Levy's eyes opened, the rain was still falling over her, but she didn't care. "So, did you need to get inside? Were you visiting someone?" Levy asked.
"Uh yes…" Juvia replied nervously, her head snapping back to the door. "I need to stop at one of the rooms in this building, but I just didn't know how to get in." Juvia explained.
"Well I can help with that!" Levy answered, reaching for her key. Juvia watched as Levy held it up, with another upbeat smile. She stepped forwards, Juvia moved over to make room, as Levy got to work opening the door.
"Thank you…" Juvia spoke gently as Levy pushed it open, Levy turned to look at her with bright eyes.
"No problem!" She answered, allowing Juvia to walk in first. Juvia walked forwards, closing her umbrella as she stepped through the doorframe of the complex. Levy followed after her, closing the door tightly behind them, to make sure the auto lock clicked on, as Juvia shook the water off of her umbrella. Juvia was stashing her umbrella in her bag, as Levy turned back to face her.
"So… Which room do you need to go visit, I can tell you where it is?" Levy offered in her efforts to stay polite, as she noticed the woman's eyes glancing around. Levy watched her look at the stairs behind her, before she then laid eyes on the first door, Levy's door.
"Actually… Right there." Juvia spoke, pointing at Levy's door. "That's the room I need to visit." Juvia added as Levy's mouth fell open in confusion. Juvia was bowing her head at Levy, in thanks. "So, thank you for your help…" She said, turning away from Levy.
"Wait!" Levy called after her, her hand reaching out to the woman. Her eyebrows pushed together in concern. "But… That's my door." Levy added, as the woman turned to look back at her. Juvia's mouth was falling open in question, her eyes widening out of misunderstanding.
"Oh really?" She questioned as Levy nodded at her. "Well, that can't be right then." Juvia replied, her hand hastily reaching down for the paper stashed in her bag. "I'm so sorry…" She was uttering embarrassed. "I must have got it wrong!" She exclaimed. Pulling her bag up, so that she could dig properly, her one hand disappearing inside of it.
"It's okay… Really." Levy replied gently, trying to ease the woman's worries. "I'll help you find the place you're looking for."
"Thank you so much for your kindness and understanding." Juvia responded, scrambling through the large bag. "Here… I found it." She added, finally pulling out a crumbled piece of paper. She unraveled it quickly, letting the bag back down over her shoulder, her eyes darting over it. "This… This can't be right…" She stated after rereading the address. She was eyeing Levy's door, followed by the paper in her hand frantically, back and forth, out of panic. Levy raised an eyebrow, her hand reaching towards the deeply confused woman. She too was now very fascinated by whatever was happening.
"May-May I see it…?" Levy questioned, an odd chill was coming over the small girl as her hand opened, offering to take the paper. Juvia glanced up at her, taken aback, but not knowing what else she could possibly do, so she handed it over, willingly. Levy looked over it, her eyes widening at the unfamiliar handwriting, her brow stretching up out of both fear and confusion.
"Who…? Who wrote this?" Levy questioned, her eyes looking up from the paper and locking over the woman's, a sinking feeling in her gut.
Juvia looked away for a moment, uncertainty was clouding her judgment, as she suddenly felt stuck. Gajeel had told her not to tell a soul, but she was at a dead end here and if she didn't reply, she might not be able to get out of it. Her need to help him out of whatever this was, was driving her to make a choice, though she hadn't any idea if it was the right one.
"Well…" Juvia started, her decision made, her voice gaining back Levy's full attention. "Do you by chance know a man named… Gajeel?" Juvia questioned hesitantly.
The sound of his name on this woman's lips, made Levy's face turn pale, her eyes widening in shock.
I've been hearing symphonies
Before all I heard was silence
A rhapsody for you and me
And every melody is timeless
Life was stringing me along
Then you came and you cut me loose
Was solo singing on my own
Now I can't find the key without you
And now your song is on repeat
And I'm dancin' on to your heartbeat
And when you're gone, I feel incomplete
So if you want the truth
I just wanna be part of your symphony
Will you hold me tight and not let go?
Symphony
Like a love song on the radio
Will you hold me tight and not let go?
I'm sorry if it's all too much
Every day you're here, I'm healing
And I was runnin' out of luck
I never thought I'd find this feeling
'Cause I've been hearing symphonies
Before all I heard was silence
A rhapsody for you and me
(A rhapsody for you and me)
And every melody is timeless
And now your song is on repeat
And I'm dancin' on to your heartbeat
And when you're gone, I feel incomplete
So if you want the truth
I just wanna be part of your symphony
Will you hold me tight and not let go?
Symphony
Like a love song on the radio
Will you hold me tight and not let go?
And now your song is on repeat
And I'm dancin' on to your heartbeat
And when you're gone, I feel incomplete
So if you want the truth
I just wanna be part of your symphony
Will you hold me tight and not let go?
Symphony
Like a love song on the radio
Symphony
Will you hold me tight and not let go?
Symphony
Like a love song on the radio
Will you hold me tight and not let go?
"Symphonies" By Clean Bandit featuring Zara Larson
A/N: So Gajeel and Levy were NOT actually together in this chapter! Sorry about that, but I hope most of you realize that for story telling purposes it needed to be this way! The plot ultimately DOES revolve around them, while all the other characters and scenes are just there for support and subplot devices that will eventually tie in with Gajevy's overall story! So please understand, be patient with me, because I do what I do for a reason, always. Ultimately, I just want to write an awesome and dramatic love story.
That being said please review! Let me know what ya thought! If you have theories or questions! I will answer all reviews in the following chapter and I will respond to PM's as well! Please be constructive with criticism so I can grow! I worked hard on this chapter and it was tough, because of all the jumping around. Hope it flowed okay for you dear readers!
Thank you so much! I really do love you all!
Responses to my Reviewers:
AyaEisen: Ya can't imagine how excited I was when you told me you reread chapter 7, because all I could think was… Why would you wanna go back and reread that whole thing?! It was damn long! It took me so many months to get through it, I struggled so much to get it done so now I dread the thought of rereading it myself. Seriously, I think I can repeat some of the lines word for word, because that's how many times I went over them trying to decide if they were any good or not… Anyways… What I'm getting at, is it means a lot to hear you say that! REALLY A LOT! I really did want Gajeel's feelings for Levy to come out through those scenes, because I was hoping it would be all the more heart wrenching for him when he had to walk away from her in the next, for both of them really. I would like to write them happy too, but at the same time I thrive on the drama! Happiness is better, best achieved after drama in my opinion… So that way the characters learned and worked at what they wanted, am I right? I plan on them having their up and downs. I really must thank you for your wonderful feedback on my story! I work hard on each chapter I put out and I can't wait to write the next scene with the two of them together again! I'm disappointed I didn't get to in this one, but it's all for story sake! Anyways until next time, thank you for support and for reading my story!
Piranha pk: Ha I had that planned from the very start! Gajeel was so arrogant to think he could just have Levy once and then walk away! Now is he busting his ass just to save her! It will be so exciting for me to write that part, when he finally gets it through to his thick head that he actually loves her! I can't wait for it! And yes, Levy isn't completely lost on her feelings, she more so is just trying to avoid them. She will come around eventually, though it might be rough for the two as this is a drama story overall. Oh and OMG you should definitely watch the FMA series! They are fantastic! I would suggest watching both if you can honestly. First FMA then FMA Brotherhood! They are both excellent, but I find the ending for FMAB to be more of the ending I sought after. They both kinda start the same, but end up being VERY different. Just my 2 cents! Be prepared though, the show is very dark at times, but it can also be hilarious and heartwarming. It's all over the place really, makes you feel the whole spectrum of emotions and the story it tells is just a solid one! And dear god yes! I DO love your reviews! Your feedback is amazing and I really appreciate it! So long as you review I shall respond! Thank you so much for everything, reading, responding, really! You are awesome!
Shizuka23: Wow what an honor! You can't know how awesome it is to hear that someone was rereading your story when they got the update email! Blows my mind! I'm so thrilled you enjoyed the chapter and Gajevy's scene! I had a blast writing them and I didn't want it to end! I really missed them in this one! I can't hardly wait till they're reunited, as I know writing their development will be so much fun. I plan on pouring as much drama, angst, feels, sexyness and cuteness in this story as my own little heart can handle so hopefully you readers will be able bear it with me! Oh… and some humor as well! I'm thrilled that you love what I got so far and hopefully this one wasn't too disappointing! The story is really starting to unravel and I felt pretty bad about putting these two through this, but I'm hoping once their together it will be all the sweeter! They are awesome and they deserve and awesome plot! I have so much planned... Oh and yes! I get what you mean about the blood, I tried to mention that it was actually splattered across the wall of the bathroom outside of the stall for this reason. And reiterated it in this one so hopefully it will make sense and kinda fill the plot hole. Thank you for making mention of it, I try my best to cover all details, but there is so much for me to think about that there's always the potential I could miss something! Also I would totally agree with you about Gajeel bringing out his weapon, but Levy just didn't want to witness what was about to happen when she saw and more importantly she didn't want Gajeel to kill Thibault. Mostly just, because Levy sees killing as wrong and she didn't want Gajeel to be a murder. Despite knowing that he might have such potential to kill someone, she does care about him anyways as love is often blind to ideals. Overall I just really wanted to make the scene dramatic for both characters as they are both struggling with their own beliefs and the beliefs of the person whom they care about, taking their feelings into considerationg, thus Gajeel and Levy! Hopefully that makes sense! Your feedback and insight is very interesting to read and fun to respond to! Thank you so much as always for your lovely feedback and for reading Monster, it has been a pleasure!
Katyhyna: Yes, I am trying to be faster about updating, but Christmas among other stresses really didn't help this time around! Yea I wasn't really planning on this one stepping into the supernatural, but I'm not opposed to doing that in future stories! I'm not sure Natsu will 'blow your mind', but hopefully you'll like his roll in the story when he does finally make an appearance! He most definitely will! It's okay that you forgot about Lucy and Loke! I like them too, but they aren't really what the story was meant to be about! I just kinda did them initially as a kudos to my friend and to take a stab at writing Loke! I'm not gonna fun they are fun, but they are no Gajevy! I'm thrilled that you laughed at the wake up scene as I really was hoping people would think it was funny. The story is mostly drama, but sometimes ya need some amusement ya know! Trust me I thought about having them do more… But… Didn't feel right just yet… There will be more though, I'm hoping it won't be too long! Heck I just can't wait to get the two together again, as right now they are both going through rough times! I'm so excited for what's ahead and their relationship development, it will be a blast to write and hopefully to read as well! I would agree with you about Gajeel having always been a self-loathing character and that is why it seems proper to make him as such in my story! It's part of the beauty of Gajeel and Levy! Yes thank you! Your feedback is always inspiring and I hope you will still like the story as it continues! I will work very hard on it and do my best! Thank you so much!
BlackThunder1221: Ha thanks! I am pleased to hear you still enjoyed the last chapter! You'll have to forgive me for not getting back to you on yours just yet. I promise I will, as it is next on my list of things to do. December has just been the month of hell for so many reasons. Perhaps I'll explain later… Anyways excuses aside, yes please make sure you get your rest! Keep writing and thank you for the review! Your feedback is always appreciated!
sergeant peace: Hey I know you! From Iron Gray I think… Thanks so much reading this story and for saying you like it! I plan to keep working on it! Thanks for your review as well, it's always a pleasure.
Math-Otaku: Wow thank you! You are amazing for leaving me this review! I hope you will continue to read and enjoy, thank you so much again for reviewing!
EXTRA A/N: This below dear readers is my own personal story. It is how I got into writing, why it became so important to my life and then why I stopped doing it for so long. It talks about how I got into Fairy Tail and what it means to me. How I started Iron Gray and finally got back into writing again. It is a pretty personal story, but I want to share it, because it is part of who I am and I am not ashamed of that. If anything, I would hope that by sharing this, I encourage other writers, artist and/or just people to share their stories. To deal with their issues and to continue working at what they love to do.
What I pulled from my own experiences is, that life will always have its hardships, but believe it not you yourself, have some power over your own happiness. Some problems you can choose to avoid, the others you can't you can choose how you handle them. Having the foresight to understand the power you possess is everything. If you are having trouble seeing that, then you may need some help opening your eyes to it, whether that be support in the shape of love, friends, family, hobbies, passion… Ask yourself, what can I do and then do it. Don't choose to be a victim and don't let grief consume you. Enjoy life for what it is, because as ugly as it may seem… There really is two sides to every coin and I promise you that the underbelly is laid out with beauty, you've just got to be paying attention to see it.
Now the beginning…
I discovered my joy for writing young while doing it beside my still best friend to this day A.J. (rikkuxstarr on fanfic). We started a silly dragonball z fanfiction one day while still in Elementary school and as time wore on I found myself often times sitting in front of the computer to work on it. I was doing this way more often than my friend, before I knew it, the story was over 50 pages long, all typed out! That was impressive for a kid of my age and I was quickly realizing how much I enjoyed writing. It wasn't long, before I began working on other writing projects, as I took story telling very seriously. I think it helped that, I was also an artist so I would often times draw the characters I was creating, filling sketchbooks full of them.
While growing up, A.J. and I continued to write fanfiction well into junior high and early high school. Often times writing about our favorite video games, like the Final Fantasy series and Chrono Cross. It was during that time, that I made my account here on fanfiction. I began to read stories on here of my favorite cartoons, video games and anime. Getting a nice feel of the community, before posting up my own stories for Chrono Cross alongside A.J.
It was during these years I started developing my style and discovering what I liked to write about. I was very into drama and romance, I used to love watching the soap opera General Hospital, but I still always had a love for anime and games as well. I loved fantasy and medieval genres too. I once again began, writing my own original story and got about 100 pages in, before I stopped working on it around the 10th grade.
I was heavily involved in art throughout high school, so much so that it ended up taking priority over writing stories. I geared up to go to art school, back then I surrounded myself with a great crowd of friends whom I still have to this day, including one of them being the man I am currently with now. I had a great family who provided me with all of the love and support a kid could need growing up. I joined the site deviantart to share all of the artwork I was doing, that being my main focus until I discovered journal writing.
Writing came back into my life very quickly in the form of journal writing on deviantart, while I was nearing the end of high school and starting college. It was very freeing and I would often use it to sort things out in my head. My journals would end up being pages upon pages long… I would write them out to be little entertaining thought processes, that my friends could read to keep up with me once I started attending art school.
Journals were soon much more consistent than me posting up my art projects and I enjoyed writing them a lot. It became part of who I was at that time, as I used journal writing to cope and deal with most everything, good or bad. Fights with friends, good times with friends, going through relationships, my struggles through school, my accomplishments during school, meeting people, new experiences, falling in love… I wrote it all! And then senior year of college happened.
Things got too crazy and the journals began to get posted less and less, as I neared my graduation from college. Then disaster really struck, in the form of heartbreak like I had never known before, or since. That well put together family that I had, had growing up, that I had always felt secured with… Had been slowly falling apart, while I was attending school, behind the scenes.
Horrible secrets had been coming out here and there, throughout my years in college, each one more devastating than the next. I often times would use my journals as a way of dealing with each one… but it was exhausting. Writing about what was happening was emotionally draining, even if it did have me feeling better afterwards… As time wore on, I found myself not wishing to deal with my problems, by instead becoming numb to them…
Upon graduation, things seemed to be okay, but I was soon told by my mother that, that was not the case. Once I was back home, things got dramatically worse very quickly. The household that had always made me feel safe, spiraled into madness as my father unleashed his inner demons in the form of his hidden alcoholism problems.
Things got way out of control and during that time, my only way of dealing with it all, was to NOT deal with it. I emptied myself of emotions, by not allowing myself to even look at the journal prompts, as I couldn't bear writing about what was happening and if I couldn't do that, then I felt like I couldn't move on. Walking home each day from work was a nightmare. I didn't know what I'd find when I walked in the house, blood sometimes on the floor, dogs missing. I couldn't fathom trying to go through the motions, not when I still needed to live day by day. What I had to keep me going during this time was the love of my life, my horse Hank (profile pic) and those loyal friends I mentioned earlier.
My family fell apart, my father lost everything and our lovely home was taken from us. I often times would wonder what was going to happen next, my brother was struggling with his own issues, because of this. The demons that had shackled my father's wrist, seemed to shackle his as well. It was just me and mom.
My lovely mother, such a strong woman. She didn't shy away from what needed to be done and so we got through it. At the time I was still trying to get on my feet after just graduating school. My boyfriend purchased a house and after a year in a half of working somewhere that my BFA degree didn't apply to, I finally landed a graphic design job.
It took some time, but things eased… My father is and was, in a state of limbo. Withdrawal almost took him from me at one point. Seeing the weak state, he was in during that time, gave me a sort of clarity that I really needed in order to finally move forwards with my life. It allowed me forgiveness for what he had done to our family, for his disease. I began to understand that I'd rather have him as my father for the time he had left. Accept him with disease and all, rather than stay angry at him for sub coming to it. Understanding that alcoholism would very likely be the death of him.
Presently, I choose to not live with the regret of disowning my father, because once he is lost to me, I know I would forever carry that on my shoulders, if I didn't allow forgiveness.
In truth, he is a good man who is just very sick. There wasn't a damn thing he didn't do for me growing up; he was a good father and husband. He cooked, did laundry, cleaned, did yard work, worked a full-time job, made a lot of money at one point. He took care of my brother and I, along with my mom. He was just our goofy, hardworking dependable dad. Hell, he bought me the computer I'm using to write this story on… So, you can understand why I always felt safe growing up. My parents were both amazing and they didn't fight, so when all of this began to happen, it was very devastating to me and even more so to my older brother, who very much idolized our dad.
These events changed me and it took a long time before I was ready to share them. Before I was ready to fully embrace who, I was, because of them. I had to relearn who that was, as I had allowed myself to be numb for so long, that I didn't know anymore. It was around this time that Jay, my boyfriend and love of my life; the dork… bought the first two DVD's of Fairy Tail, on a whim.
I had just started getting things back in order mentally and that was when I wrote my Zelda one shot! It was very exciting for me to have written anything during that time. I had been putting it off for so long, but I was slowly getting back to it. I wrote a few journals and then one night, Jay put Fairy Tail on.
Man… sounds so silly right? It's just an anime, but really it was so much more to me back then. I was miffed at Jay, because he had already watched it without me, so I asked him if I could borrow it, but all he said was…
"No… If you're going to watch Fairy Tail, I want to watch it with you, because I want to rewatch it."
I just shook my head at him annoyed, but it was clear to me that Jay seemed really taken with the anime. Then finally one night, he put on that first episode really late. And I'm not sure what happened, other than I can tell you we didn't get much sleep.
We weren't able to watch Fairy Tail again for a while after that first night, because of our schedules. Then it came time for Jay to move into his new house and he had almost no furniture, but it didn't matter. He invited me over the first night he stayed there and we watched Fairy Tail again, on one of those big old projection T.V's from the 90s. It was wonderful!
I remember being a little upset with Jay during this time, as I felt like he was moving on in life without me, what with him buying a house. That was something I had always wanted to do myself. It made me not want to go over there at first, but the enjoyment I got out of watching Fairy Tail with him, made me kind of get over it. I started going over each night just to watch more and we bonded enough, that I kind of forgot about being upset.
The show was just the uplifting thing I needed, and I quickly went and bought the next two DVD's that ended right after the Battle Of Fairy Tail… And that was it! New obsession!
Of course, that lead to me hitting up the net and looking up fan art. Then of course, I came back here to this site finally, to read fanfics as well… My love for Gajevy was being forged and I didn't even know it yet.
It was so strange at first… Seeing them as a thing, before I even grasped all of what was going on. Gajeel was still in Phantom when I saw the first fan art of them. All I could think was… Whaa? Fans on crack?! He just nailed this chick to a tree!?
Not only that, but Gajeel was so terrifying! Man, what a great bad guy he was! I watched him pummel Lucy, destroy the guild and grind Natsu's head into the concrete! Oh, and the passion of Natsu during that fight! Gives me chills to this day! All of the Phantom Arc was just so intense and amazing!
Levy on the other hand, I knew I liked her from minute one. She was adorable! And her character design was unique and cool! She was very friendly and upbeat and I yearned to see more of her. It was another reason why I found it to be especially heart wrenching, that Gajeel had chosen her, to paint Phantom's symbol on… This tiny, adorable little girl, who was so friendly!? GAH! WHY!?
When I started to understand that Gajeel was going to join Fairy Tail, I found my eyes opening up to him more. I began to appreciate his character a hell of a lot more, not only personality wise, but design wise as well. He too is a very unique looking anime character, his features are very distinct, making him more human and less anime(except for the piercings) to me. It was part of the reason why I found him so appealing and I swear I could feel my hands itching to write.
Needless to say, I spoiled Gajeel and Levy's Tenrou parts for myself, but it was worth it, because I began to write this story. Knowing that this… This here, was gold with these two… or should I say iron…
I mean all of Fairy Tail is gold really! Natsu, Lucy, The Strauss siblings, Makarov, Juvia, Erza, Gray, Wendy… OMG I could go on about each one of them! They all are astounding in their own right and so is the whole message of it! It was a no brainer that it drew me in, because it came at a time, when I really needed something positive in my life. It's characters and their bonds very much reminded me of my own, with my close-knit group of friends, whom I still have to this day, known as The Runnin' Crew!
We too were forever growing group of people who flourished in each other's company. Had our own issues and haunted pasts, had people coming and going, starting families, just like members of a guild.
Fairy Tail reminded me that even though the family I once had was lost, I still wasn't without family in my life now.
Levy's forgiving nature for Gajeel really hit home for me personally as well, due to my own experiences with my father.
Levy is the type of character I would aspire to be, because she carries on unburdened by the past. She knows how to deal with problems when they come to her and then she moves forward. Her kind nature and truthful heart, being among her most admirable qualities, as she is a true friend to all. Even to those such as Gajeel, who have hurt her. She still walked away unscathed, refusing to not be broken. Her faith in humanity is awe inspiring, as she brings hope and meaning to light.
Gajeel is an equally admirable character, this here is a man who has made mistakes in his life, but has done his best to both repay and make up for them. We as people, need to see a character such as Gajeel, who is layered with both good and bad in him. A character who has flaws and in true human form, almost let his guilt consume him to the point of no return. A character who needed a little bit of help getting back on his feet like most of us do, but then was able to rise up and reclaim his life with a vengeance. And then make the most of it, like he never had before, by joining Fairy Tail and living with his past discretions, still moving forward.
This my friends, is why I wrote Iron Gray, because I very much needed too. I needed to tell this story, not just for people to read, but for me to get the words out as well. To make up for all of the times I was struggling and couldn't bring myself to do it. I myself, like both Gajeel and Levy, needed to move forward from the pain that had made me numb, for so long and now here I am doing what I love. Progressing and improving, growing as a writer, so that I may one day accomplish one of my biggest dreams, creating a novel!
Anyways that about does it for my story, I really appreciate anyone who read it. I mean truly, you are a saint if you read this! I want you to know that I'll keep at this for as long as I am able to, until the time feels right to put a close on this fic. But until then, please continue to come back dear reader… And enjoy reading Iron Gray AND Monster as much as I enjoy writing!
Ms. KtK
