Are you ready for the biggest chapter yet?! It's the finale! It's long overdue but I hope you enjoy it.
Thank you for all the reviews and comments; a lot were from guests so I could not reply but I still love reading them.
Songs used:
Misery Business- Cole Rolland Cover
Stitches- State Champs
It Isn't In My Blood- Kurt Hugo Schneider cover
I hope you all enjoy! I don't own the songs or characters. Love you all!
Today was the day. The long physically draining and emotionally tiring week was about to come to an end. It surely was an experience to be in this competition and be alongside all of these amazing bands pining for the golden microphone.
Lucy awoke this morning with a confidence she didn't know she had. She was ready to take on the world but the finale would do. Levy, Erza and Juvia seemed to feel Lucy's energy and ran with it. These girls felt unstoppable today.
Mira didn't even have to get the girls up this morning, much to her surprise. She was a little worried when she couldn't find them in the hotel room. She searched for a few minutes until she noticed a note on the back of the door.
'Went to rehearse at the space, see you soon!' Mira smiled and her mind eased up a bit. Mira gathered her things together before getting a ride from her chauffer. She walked into the space to see the girls just finishing up their song.
Mira walked in and set down the pastries and drinks she purchased on the table by the door. The girls hit their last notes before taking deep breaths to regain their composure. "That sounds great, girls!" Mira cheered. "You all look like you're in good spirits today."
"We definitely are," Lucy answered. Levy and Juvia placed their instruments on their stands before joining Erza and Lucy by Mira. The girls dove into their pastries as Mira gave them the rundown's schedule. "So you have time to yourself until 1130 when you have the main stage for a half hour to rehearse. Then you will break for lunch. After that, you get time to rehearse your winning song with Audio Uproar for an hour." Juvia couldn't help but squeal.
"Then you get time for makeup and wardrobe before going on for the show at 8pm sharp." The girls nodded in understanding as Mira spoke. They decided to relax for the next half hour until they hit the stage. They talked about their favorite performances, not just by them, but from the other competitors as well.
…
Lucy followed her bandmates towards the main stage. Coco had given them the go ahead to practice and warned them they were on a strict time schedule. Lucy chuckled at the girl; she seemed like she had been running around all day but at least she was quick.
As Lucy walked towards the wings of the stage, she saw Lisanna walking off with her band. Instinctually she sucked in a breath of air and held it in her chest. She didn't know where she stood with Lisanna… especially after last night's party. After all, she seemed pretty cozy with Natsu the other night but she wasn't sure if that made her situation better or worse.
Just as a precaution, Lucy stood off to the side and waited for all of Femme Fatal to walk past her. The girls of the other band began to walk past her in a line with Lisanna walking in the back. Lucy exhaled just as Lisanna took one step away from her.
Just as she thought she was in the clear, Lucy heard a voice, "Hey!" The blonde slowly turned around towards the voice and saw Lisanna standing with her arms crossed staring at the blonde. Lucy stood in place as said girl walked towards her. Levy and Erza stood protectively on either side of Lucy, unsure of what was about to occur.
Lisanna stopped just a few inches from Lucy's face. The blonde flinched when she saw something moving out of the corner of her eye. After a few seconds of nothing, Lucy slowly opened her eyes. Lisanna's face was somewhat more relaxed and her hand was extended out towards her. Lucy looked from the hand back up towards her eyes. "Good luck," Lisanna said. Confused, Lucy took the white haired girl's hand in her own and shook it.
Content, Lisanna joined up with the rest of her band and left towards the trailers. Lucy looked back to her bandmates hopeful they could give her an answer as to what just happened but to no avail.
"What are you doing?!" Coco yelled, causing all the girls to jump. "Get out there! You only have 25 minutes now!" The girls quickly nodded and scurried out to the stage.
"So how do you want this set up for you?" Laxus grumbled as he stared down at the clipboard in his hands.
"Laxus?" Lucy questioned.
"Jura asked me to assist with management tonight so I'm mediating between the crew and the performers."
"That's sweet of you," Mira cooed. Lucy could have sworn she saw a bit of blush on Laxus' cheeks but she just chalked it up to her being crazy.
"Well…" Levy began, "We were thinking of using platforms to disrupt the static feel." Laxus hummed as if stating he understood. "We thought Erza should be in the back on the highest platform and then me on the next highest." Laxus continued to hum and nod as he scribbled on the clipboard. "Um…" Levy looked towards the other girls so Lucy continued, "Juvia will also be on a platform but one lower to the stage so she can walk around freely. Then I will be level."
Laxus nodded silently. Lucy looked towards Mira for guidance but she just responded with her usual smile. Lucy looked back towards the blonde and waited. "Like this?" he asked as he turned around the clipboard showing the girls a rough sketch.
The sketch was of the stage in the way the girls just described. The platforms were in a crescent shape surrounding a mic stand in the middle. The drum set was directly center a few feet above the mic stand, the bass was stage right of the drums and slightly lower with Juvia's guitar on stage left with a staircase leading down to the floor.
"Perfect!" Lucy cheered.
Laxus nodded again, "We will work on lighting and designs for you while you rehearse. So go ahead and play it through once so the techs can get a feel for the song." The girls nodded and took their places at the temporary instruments on the stage. Lucy counted down and the girls began to play. Laxus and Mira stood side by side at the bottom of the stage and watched the girls play. Laxus tapped his foot to their beat and watched them intently.
"Not bad," Laxus commented before scribbling something down.
"You know they're better than 'not bad,'" Mira commented as she bumped the blonde's shoulder.
"You know I have to remain impartial, Mira," he responded.
"I know," she smiled, "But I didn't say anything about the competition, only about their skill level."
Laxus finally looked away from the clipboard and to the girl beside him, "It was implied."
"But you would still root for AOP even if it wasn't your girlfriend's band right?" Mira asked.
Laxus continued not to meet her gaze, "Impartial remember?" Mira giggled.
The girls finished their run through and waited for Laxus' next direction. Laxus gave some instruction to the technical staff before returning to speak to the girls. After a few notes on either side, Lucy counted down to start the song again.
…
"So the producers decided to give you girls some extra time with Uproar today due to scheduling conflicts which occurred earlier." Juvia squealed again.
Freed continued, "Someone will come and get you when your makeup and hair designers are ready for you. Once you're done there, you will be taken to wardrobe to pick out your outfits." Freed stopped walking as he reached a door. "Any questions?" The girls shook their heads so Freed responded, "Good." He opened the door and allowed the girls to enter.
As soon as Lucy entered the room, she saw they were in an open studio filled with many different types of instruments and audio equipment. The boys were all sat in various places throughout the room but Lucy noticed they all seemed to perk up when they walked in.
"Hey guys!" Jellal called. The girls waved as they walked in and Freed shut the door behind them. The guys all stood up as the girls walked towards the middle of the room. "Well first off," Natsu began, "We want to congratulate you on making it to the final three." The guys followed Natsu's lead and began clapping for the girls.
Natsu leaned forward and put a hand beside his mouth, "Between you and me, we are rooting for you to win." Gray slapped Natsu's shoulder I response.
"You're not allowed to say anything, Idiot."
"It's not like there is anyone here," Natsu reasoned. Jellal stepped between the two and pushed them aside. "Anyway… we have limited time to discuss what song you want to cover with us."
"Well…" Lucy began, "We were discussing the topic and we kinda of wanted to do something a bit different."
"Different?" Gajeel questioned.
"We wanted to veer from our normal style," Levy explained.
"So…" Natsu confusedly asked.
"Well, it came up in discussion that Erza and Jellal are classically trained in the Cello." Lucy motioned to Erza who nodded.
"And that got us thinking," Juvia added.
"Just say it already," Natsu urged as he crossed his arms.
"We want to do something more classical." Lucy stated. The guys were all quiet; they all wore a look of confusion except for Jellal. "Sounds good to me," he stated.
"You would say that; you're the only one classically trained," Gajeel grunted.
A sly look grew on Natsu's face as he slowly turned towards Gray. "Well," the pinkette began, "That's not entirely true." Gray looked over at his friend and noticed the evil grin on his face. Gray's eyes widened as he read the singer's mind, "Oh no! I vowed to never play again!"
"Gray-sama can't stop playing the guitar!" Juvia cried.
"He's not talking about the guitar, Juvia," Natsu answered. "Gray can play the violin."
"Shut it, Flame Brain!" The girls gasped in amazement.
"Really?" Erza asked.
"Awwww, Juvia wants to see!" she cooed.
"Yeah, his mom wanted him to learn the discipline and poise of the violin… you can see how well that worked out," Natsu stated before Gray punched his shoulder again.
"That works perfectly with what we were thinking!" Lucy cheered.
"Look, ladies, I don't…" Gray was quickly met with three pouty faces with wide eyes and quivering lips. Gray backed up a bit in his seat in intimidation. "Pwease, Gway," Levy pleaded.
"I bet you're really good, Gray-sama," Juvia added.
"It would really help us out," Lucy pouted.
"Uh guys? A little help please." He looked over to his friends for help but they didn't seem interested. Gajeel was scrolling on his phone, Jellal was flipping through a book and Natsu was leaning back in his chair with his hands behind his head. "Looks like you're on your own, Ice Face."
Gray turned back to the girls in front of him. He pinched the bridge of his nose with two fingers, "Ugh fine!" The girls dropped the faces and cheered!
"Great! So here's the plan!"
…
Lucy took a deep breath in then exhaled while jumping and shaking her hands. This was it, the final night of the show. Within the next couple hours, a winner would be announced. She was a little nervous for that aspect but she was more ancy than anything.
Cancer scolded her the entire time he was styling her because she wouldn't sit still in the chair. Lucky for Virgo, Lucy knew exactly what she wanted to wear so she was in and out of wardrobe. Now Lucy was just left to wait for the show to begin so she could at least do something.
Erza sat in the corner with her headphones in as she flipped through a magazine which was sitting in the room. Erza decided to wear her scarlet hair down and wore a tight white tank top with a watercolor Fairy Tail logo on the front and black ripped jeans. She tapped her sneaker clad feet to whatever song she was listening to.
Juvia strummed on her guitar as she practiced her chords for their song tonight. Lucy really liked the guitarist's look; she wore a black jersey-like shirt with white stripes and the Fairy Tail logo that paired excellently with her tight white jeans. The ends of the jeans were rolled up slightly to show her black ankle boots. Juvia's hair was pulled to the side in a ponytail and curled at the ends.
Lucy leaned her back against the makeup counter in their room and continued to focus on the task ahead of them. "You okay, Lu-chan?" Levy asked as she leaned on the counter next to her best friend.
"Yeah, just bored… I want to play."
Levy chuckled at the blonde. "It will be over soon enough." Levy wore high waisted shorts with gold buckles and black stockings that ran up to her mid-thigh. Her shirt was fitted but still somewhat loose around her small figure; the fabric was an off white color which wrapped her front then met around her low back. Adorned in her hair was a black headband with a Fairy Tail pedant attached.
Lucy pulled the sleeves up over her hands and crossed her arms over her chest. The gesture seemed calming to her and she immediately relaxed. "I thought you were gonna give that back," Levy chastised. Lucy looked down at her outfit.
She wore tight white capri jeans and black ankle boots with a wedge heel. Her hair was lightly curled and hung loose over her shoulders which were covered in a familiar garment. Lucy decided against returning Natsu's jacket for now and decided to use it for tonight's performance. She wore the black sweater with the prominent Fairy Tail logo over a black lace bralette which exposed her stomach. The top was similar to the outfit she wore for the Confidence shoot but the lace around the edges covered more than the strip of fabric she wore last time.
"I don't have any Fairy Tail apparel yet so I thought I'd hang onto it a bit longer," Lucy explained.
"Uh huh sure," Levy replied and Lucy rolled her eyes.
A knock at the door turned all the girls' heads. The door slowly opened to reveal a very dressed up Mira. Lucy always knew Mira was celebrity beauty material but seeing her know really proved it.
She seemed even more dressed up than the night before. Mira wore a floor length gown with a slit on the right side exposing just enough leg to be classy and sexy. The fabric was an amethyst with sparkling clear jewels around the sweetheart cut.
"Is it time for us to go?" Juvia asked as she stood up.
"Not quite…I wanted to speak to you girls first." The girls left their spots from around the room and met their manager in the center. "So the bands will play in order of their elimination tonight until the final three play. The managers of the other bands ad I drew straws for the order and you girls will go last." Mira gave the girls a wink. "After every two band performances, one of the final bands will be brought on stage for a small interview with Hisui. Don't worry, it's nothing serious. Because you girls are performing last, you will be interviewed first!" The girls all nodded in understanding.
Mira took a second and paused before continuing, "I just wanted to tell you how proud of you I am. I know I haven't been with you very long but it has been an honor to watch you girls grow and progress as artists… No matter what happens tonight, you girls are going to go a long way in this business. I'm so looking forward to what the future holds for you." Lucy reached out and grabs Mira's hand. "For us." Lucy clarified. Mira's bottom lip began to quiver in the midst of a smile. The girls surrounded their manager and gave her a big group hug.
"Alright!" Mira yelled as she wiped her eyes. "Go out there and kick some ass!" The girls cheered and left the room. They confidently walked down the halls towards the main stage.
…
Coco directed all the bands to wait in the wings for their cue. Lucy watched expectantly from the wings; the bands were told Hisui would be performing in the opening number. She had heard so much about Hisui but had never seen any of her performances.
In the midst of the dark space of the stage, Lucy could make out figures walking to their places. She heard a ticking sound signaling the countdown for the performance. After the third beat, the lights went up and the figures came to life.
Lucy watched all the background dancers flip and spin while Hisui walked around them; occasionally Hisui would join in too in the dancing.
Hisui's music wasn't what Lucy would typically listen to but she still enjoyed it. The familiar host was very upbeat and had a sort of childlike youth in her voice; Lucy had to admit it was very entertaining.
The performance ended and the crowd in the stadium went wild. Lucy could tell by the sheer noise of the voices alone there were tons of people here. Coco announced earlier this show was sold out and they even sold out of their outdoor seating venue.
Trying to regain her breath, Hisui approached the front of the stage and introduced the show. "Welcome to the finale of the Battle of the Bands. Tonight, we will see amazing performances from all your favorite bands this season and even get a chance to speak to the final three!" A pause was allowed for applause.
"As usual, we have our three amazing judges! We have Jura Neekis, the best manager in the music industry and proudly representing Lamia Scale," Jura stood and waved. "Rock star extraordinaire, the amazing Wolfheim." The rocker stood up and gave a wave to the audience. "And last but not least, master of lyrics, Warrod Sequen," The eldest man stood and simply nodded.
"Let me just remind everyone hat is at stake here tonight." Lucy grabbed ahold of Levy's hand and squeezed it in excitement. "The winner of tonight's show will not only get the title of Battle of the Bands Champion, they will also get the coveted Golden Microphone and a chance to sing with the oh so talented boys of Audio Uproar!" The crowd cheered and screamed upon hearing the name of the boys' band.
"It is an exciting day for everyone but don't just take my word for it. Let's hear it from someone who has been through this exact experience. It seems like you are all familiar with this group of guys so please help me welcome Audio Uproar!" The audience cheered even louder upon seeing the boys than when their name was first announced.
Lucy looked across the stage and saw Natsu, Gray, Gajeel and Jellal walk onto the stage. The boys all smiled and waved (well except Gajeel who seemed to just be there). "Hi boys!" Hisui cried as she gave Natsu and Gray a hug. Juvia had to be restrained by Erza and Lucy so she didn't run out on stage.
"We are so grateful to be here tonight," Natsu began.
"Yeah, we can't wait to see what these bands have in store," Gray added.
"So what's it like being back on this stage?" Hisui asked.
Jellal stepped up and answered this one, "It definitely is amazing to be a part of this competition once again and it is such an honor to be able to sing with the winner this season."
"What advice can you give the final three bands tonight?"
"Just breathe and let the mixture of all the emotions you've felt over this season fuel your energy in your performance tonight," Natsu stated. Lucy couldn't help but chuckle at the response. Natsu was very much a goof ball and a character but he had moments where he was oddly sincere and astute in his musical observations.
Gajeel leaned over Natsu's shoulder and stated, "Have fun." Gray couldn't help but crack up a little.
"Well thank you guys for being here and I can't wait for you to perform your new single 'Stitches' here tonight!" The crowd cheered upon hearing the news. Hisui excused the guys who left to take their temporary place at the judges table.
…
The first two bands performed and the stage hands were clearing the stage to prepare for AOP's interview. Lucy couldn't help but be a little nervous considering how the last 'impromptu' interview went. Shaking it off (literally), Lucy prepared to take her seat on stage.
Coco ran around the girls, giving them each a microphone. The ticking countdown sounded and the lights went up showing Hisui standing in front of a black director's chair.
"This band has brought you sass, ferocity and has even tugged on your heartstrings. They've brought raw energy to their sets and have even left us speechless. Please help me welcome, one of the finalists this evening, Accidentally On Purpose!"
The girls emerged from the wings and made their way towards the four empty seats next to their host. Each girl gave Hisui a hug before taking a seat.
Natsu couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at Lucy's appearance. Was that his hoodie?
"Hi girls! How are you all feeling tonight?" Hisui asked.
Lucy raised the microphone to her mouth, "We are so excited to be here tonight. We have gone through some ups and downs during this competition so it's almost surreal to be here as one of the final three."
"We are so thankful for everyone who got us here tonight," Levy added, earning a roar from the audience.
"Well you certainly have shown throughout this competition why you are here tonight. I can think of a few of my favorite moments but let's hear from the judges. Jura?"
The girls turned their heads towards the judge's table to listen to the man's answer. "You girls have stolen the show for me on many occasions but my all-time favorite has to be Lucy's piano solo." Levy reached over and placed her hand on her best friend's. "The pure emotion that you put into that performance was absolutely beautiful!"
"Wolfheim?"
"You ladies showed your versatility this whole show but I liked it best when you showed you sexy side in the sultry theme challenge."
"Warrod?"
"Your introduction, where we got to see who you are for the first time, was a knock out. I can't wait to see our originality again tonight."
"Boys, which performance was your favorite?" Gray was the first to lean forward towards their shared microphone. "I think it's pretty certain that the acoustic performance of Dark Horse was well liked by this group." The comment earned Gray a punch to the shoulder which made Natsu laugh out loud.
"Well, I know we are all looking forward to your performance tonight so can you give us a bit of a sneak peek?"
The girls decided to let Erza answer this question, "The whole point of this competition is to showcase what we bring forward as a band so in each performance we wanted to highlight a talent of one of our members."
"We showcased our range and power with Lucy's piano solo," Levy explained.
"And our unique double vocals in the acoustic performance," Lucy added.
"We focused on our hard hitting beats and timing with the theme challenge through our drums," Juvia stated.
"And tonight, we wanted to showcase our fun and inviting aspect by letting Juvia take the lead role," Erza said as she looked over to her guitarist friend.
"Honestly, hearing Juvia play for the first time is what inspired me to want to create a band. She stops me in my place every time I hear her," Lucy said.
"Well, we can't wait to hear it. Everyone give it up for Accidentally On Purpose!" The girls waved as they left the stage and let the stage hands prepare for the next band.
The girls returned to their trailer to wait for their chance to perform.
…
Lucy wrenched the microphone between both of her hands as she waited for her cue to go on stage. They were given the five minute warning so here they waited until the stage was set during the commercial intermission.
She watched as Femme Fatal performed a song similar in style to their first song but was pleasantly surprised to find the other band members played a bigger part in it. Trimen didn't surprise her by performing some sexist cover song. They didn't even do anything original.
A stage hand gave Coco the thumbs up who in turn told the girls to take their places. Erza and Levy climbed the hidden ladder to their platforms while Juvia took her spot behind her guitar and Lucy placed her microphone in the mic stand.
Lucy kept her head down as the video played on the screen above her head. She listened as the video recounted their journey here; the fun they had, the emotions brought out and the charisma of their performances were all documented by the judges and themselves.
The video died out and the stage was pitch black. Lucy gripped the stand harder as the countdown ticked away. Levy played the opening on her keyboard with the violin effect that they spoke about earlier. The elegance of the violin provided an unexpected hard hitting effect with the notes played.
After the intro, Levy paused a few seconds so she could change instruments. After the beat, Erza hit her drums, cueing the lights to come on.
The stage was illuminated, with a spot on each girl at their station. Erza beat away on her drums as Levy strummed on her bass guitar to the sick notes Juvia played on her guitar.
Lucy stepped forward into the light and to her microphone. She placed both her hands on top of the mic in its stand.
I'm in the business of misery, let's take it from the top
She's got a body like an hourglass that's ticking like a clock
Lucy motioned ina curvy figure with both hands.
It's a matter of time before we all run out
When I thought he was mine, she caught him by the mouth
Lucy held up a hand to the side and violently closed her fist.
I waited eight long months
She finally set him free
Lucy raised her arms out to her sides but wagging pointed fingers towards the audience then pointing at herself.
I told him I couldn't lie, he was the only one for me
Two weeks and we had caught on fire
She's got it out for me, but I wear the biggest smile
Lucy placed both her hands back on the mic as she gave a coy smile.
The beat halted again but just for a second. In that short moment, the lights went out on the stage again, leaving the girls in the dark.
Upon the drum hit, all the lights came on on the stage with different colors shining up from the back. Lucy had ditched the stand and was clutching the microphone in her right.
Whoa, I never meant to brag
Lucy raised her left arm towards the sky to hit the first note then placed it on her chest as she walked towards the end of the stage.
But I've gotten what I wanted now
Whoa, it was never my intention to brag
Lucy pointed out into the audience as she walked along the front edge of the stage towards Levy's side.
To steal it all away from you now
But God does it feel so good
Lucy stopped to stomp her foot to Juvia's guitar beats. The blonde clutched her chest with her free hand as she sang.
'Cause I got him where I want him now
And if you could then you know you would
Lucy pointed out to the audience.
'Cause God it just feels so
It just feels so good
Lucy retreated back towards the center of the stage.
Second chances they don't ever matter, people never change
Lucy raised two fingers and acted apathetic as she delivered the next couple lines. She flicked a hand over her shoulder and rolled her eyes.
Once a whore, you're nothing more, I'm sorry that'll never change
And about forgiveness, we're both supposed to have exchanged
I'm sorry honey, I passed out, now look this way
Lucy pointed towards stage right then shuffle spun her feet in that direction.
Well there's a million other girls who do it just like you
Lucy put a finger to her cheek to play off the innocence.
Looking as innocent as possible to get to who
They want and what they like, it's easy if you do it right
Lucy walked back to center and pounded her chest.
Well I refuse, I refuse, I refuse!
Lucy jumped on time to the beat with Juvia and Levy who did the same.
Whoa, well I never meant to brag
Lucy wagged a finger towards the audience.
But I've gotten what I wanted now
Whoa, it was never my intention to brag
To steal it all away from you now
But God does it feel so good
Lucy bent over slightly and grabbed at her jacket.
'Cause I got him where I want him now
And if you could then you know you would
Lucy straightened up and ran a hand through her hair slowly as the beat calmed just a bit.
'Cause God it just feels soooooo
It just feels so good
Lucy held the mic in both hands and sang with her eyes closed.
I watched his wildest dreams come true
Not one of them involving you
Lucy opened her eyes showing the fierce cockiness within them as her voice grew more intense.
Just watch my wildest dreams come true
Not one of them involving
Juvia had walked down from her platform and was now standing dead center in the stage with a bright spot light on her. Erza and Levy kept up the beat in the background so Juvia could do her thing… and boy was she doing it.
The blunette wore a look of concentrated bliss on her face where you could tell she was fully focused on her music but enjoying it at the same time.
Her fingers seemed to glide over the strings so quickly but with such purpose. The eyes of all the judges went wide at the sound of her. Natsu's jaw dropped and he leaned forward in his seat staring at the mastery before him.
Gray couldn't seem to take it and he was now standing, entranced by the skills this girl showed; unable to control himself or even decide what to do. All Gray could do in this situation was to just simply stand there and be amazed.
When Juvia hit her last note, she dropped her hands for a second to rest but remained front and center.
Whoa, well I never meant to brag
Lucy matched the beat and walked up to join her blue haired friend at the edge of the stage.
But I got him where I want him now
Lucy bent over to belt out her big note.
Whoa, I never meant to brag
But I've gotten what I wanted now
Juvia played beside Lucy as the blonde leaned her elbow on the guitarist's shoulder
Whoa, it was never my intention to brag
To steal it all away from you now
Juvia turned her back to the blonde who leaned hers up against the other. Lucy continued to sing in the position while Juvia played.
But God does it feel so good
'Cause I got him where I want him now
And if you could then you know you would
'Cause God it just feels soooooooo
Lucy started bent over when she hit the first note then slowly straightened up as she gradually raised her note. Lucy dropped her hands as Juvia and the girls kept up the beat.
Lucy raised the mic up to her mouth one last time.
It just feels so good
Levy and Juvia were in perfect sync with their strums as they wrapped up the song with Erza. The lights went out on the final beat and the audience immediately roared in applause.
The other judges joined Gray in standing as they furiously clapped their hands. The girls were already off the stage when the lights came back up.
He didn't know how he was still standing and his legs didn't fall out from underneath him. He felt a small shove on his side. Gray turned to see Natsu, his best friend, smiling wildly at him. This time it wasn't the smug condescending smile he was used to, the one he wanted to smack right off his face… no, this time it was an encouraging smile. As if he knew what was running through the man's brain. He didn't say anything, just gave the look then faced back forward.
Gray began to turn his head forward before being tapped on his other shoulder. He turned to his left and saw Gajeel standing beside him… he was the one with the stupid smile. He threw a tissue towards the guitarist before stating, "Looks like you might need this, Pervert." If they weren't on a stage in public, he would have started a fight right then a there.
…
Lucy waited expectantly in the wings with the other bands as the showed weaned down to its closing. They were just about to return from a commercial break and Audio Uproar would perform. During this time, the scores would be tallied and afterwards, the winner would be announced.
Lucy wanted to win, for obvious reasons of winning, but she really wanted to perform their classic song with the guys. She loved performing and working with them. Honestly, she was also a little tired of this competition.
Her head snapped up when she heard Hisui's voice introducing Audio Uproar. Lucy glanced out and noticed the stage was still dark except for a bright line along the edge of the stage. The crowd mumbled cheers as they waited expectantly for the guys to play.
A guitar sounded, soon after Natsu's voice followed.
I thought that I've been hurt before
But no one's ever left me quite this sore
The bass and drums kicked in as well.
Your words cut deeper than a knife
Now I need someone to breathe me back to life
The light at the edge of the stage moved upstage and Natsu dove under it to be revealed in the wave of light. As the light traveled further upstage, the other members of the band were illuminated as well.
Upon seeing Natsu on stage, the crowd erupted in cheers again.
Got a feeling that I'm going under
But I know that I'll make it out alive
Natsu raised his arm just as the light washed over the rest of his band. He pointed his finger out at the audience.
If I quit calling you my lover
Move on
At the hit of the chorus with all the instruments, Natsu bent over his microphone and held his hand out to his chest.
You watch me bleed until I can't breathe (oh!)
Shaking
Falling onto my knees
And now that I'm without your kisses
Natsu walked along the edge of the stage looking out over the audience.
I'll be needing stitches
Tripping over myself(oh!)
Natsu walked back towards the other end of the stage, pantomiming tripping but maintaining his composure.
Aching
Begging you to come help
And now that I'm without your kisses
I'll be needing stitches
Natsu was back center stage and put his hand out just as the beat momentarily stopped.
Just like a moth drawn to a flame
Natsu took a couple steps back as he wagged his finger at the audience.
Oh, you lured me in I couldn't sense the pain
Your bitter heart, cold to the touch
Natsu stomped his foot while simultaneously clutching to his shirt at his chest.
Now I'm gonna reap what I sow
I'm left seeing red on my own
Natsu beat a flat hand to his chest. The singer climbed up on Gajeel's platform as the light followed.
Got a feeling that I'm going under
But I know that I'll make it out alive
Natsu stood high and proud on the platform as he sang and pointed out to the audience.
If I quit calling youmy lover
Move on
Natsu jumped off onto the stage below and landed just as Gay and the instruments kicked in.
You watch me bleed until I can't breathe (oh!)
Shaking
Falling onto my knees
Natsu slid on his knees towards the edge of the stage where fangirls screamed and reached their arms out to him; hoping they could just get a touch of fame.
And now that I'm without your kisses
I'll be needing stitches
Tripping over myself (oh!)
The singer stood and walked back towards center stage.
Aching
Begging you to come help
And now that I'm without your kisses
I'll be needing stitches
The music died down a bit, leaving just Gray strumming lightly on his guitar. The stage lights were dimmed and a pattern of spotlights flowed over them to the beat of Gray's guitar.
Natsu stood in the center, even with his bandmates, and clutched the microphone in both hands. Jellal and Natsu both came in at the same time.
Needle and the thread, gotta get you out of my head
Needle and the thread, gonna wind up dead
Gajeel came in, adding his usual intensity to the situation. Natsu in turn added a bit of ferocity to his notes as well.
Needle and the thread, gotta get you out of my head
Needle and the thread, gonna wind up dead
The guys joined back together with force; the lights grew more intense as well. Natsu stamped his foot to the beat before ruffling his hand in his hair.
Needle and the thread, gotta get you out of my head
Needle and the thread, gonna wind up dead (wind up dead)
Needle and the thread, gotta get you out of my head
Get you out of my head
Natsu bent over the microphone again to hit his longer note as Gray continued the vocals behind him.
You watch me bleed until I can't breathe(oh!)
Shaking
Falling onto my knees
Natsu joined back in and walked to the edge again.
And now that I'm without yourkisses
I'll be needing stitches
Tripping over myself (oh!)
Natsu pretended to slip backwards again but completed a backflip; his feet hit the stage just as the guys sang 'oh.'
Aching
Begging you to come help
And now that I'm without your kisses
I'll be needing stitches
The crowd roared at the spectacle they just witnessed. Hisui took her place on a lower platform attached to the front of stage right. She commented on how the performance went as the stage hands worked their magic on the dark stage.
Lucy knew this was it; the moment the winner would be declared and the contest would be over. Honestly, she was a bit glad the contest was coming to an end. It was a long week with unnecessary amounts of drama and the typical stress that comes with any competition.
She loved meeting new friends and experiencing new things; regardless of the outcome, she definitely felt like she grew during this competition, as a person and an artist.
"Ready, Lu-chan?" Levy asked as she stood beside her best friend. Erza and Juvia walked up on the other side of Lucy and gave her a thumbs up. "I guess so," Lucy shrugged.
"Hey!" Lucy turned to see Lisanna storming up to her. Unsure of what was about to happen, Lucy braced herself for the worst; she tensed up and stood up straight. "What is it, Lisanna?"
Lisanna walked straight up to the blonde. Lucy noticed the girl's face was stern but somewhat softer than previous meetings.
Lisanna took a deep breath before speaking, "I'm sorry." All their eyes went wide. "What?" Lucy stated in disbelief.
"I said I'm sorry… I did some things that were wrong and instead of taking the blame like I should, I took my anger out on you. I left Fairy Tail, joined a band and rigged the competition just to get back at you."
"You rigged the competition?!" Levy yelled.
"I did… and it obviously wasn't enough to get you voted out." Lisanna took a step towards Lucy, causing the blonde's bandmates to flinch to protect their singer. Lisanna gently placed her hand on the blonde's shoulder. "I've already told the judges of my actions, which inadvertently disqualified us from winning… but AOP truly deserves to win."
Lucy reciprocated the smile Lisanna gave her. Lucy placed her hand on top of Lisanna's, which was still resting on her shoulder. "Thanks, Lisanna. Hopefully, we can work together in the future."
"I would love that," Lisanna added.
"What are you doing?!" All the girls turned to see an angry Coco standing beside them. "You need to be on stage right now! Go!" Coco pushed all the girls onto the stage to take their places.
Trimen stood on the far side, AOP was in the middle and Femme Fatal stood on the other side. Lucy grabbed onto Levy's and Juvia's hands tightly. The judges and the AU boys sat at the judge's table, waiting expectantly for the results which Hisui held in her hands.
"This has been a long week but personally, my favorite season so far. The three bands that stand up here with me have been through some crazy challenges and have managed to come out on top; however, only one can be the winner."
"Femme Fatal," the crowd cheered for the girls when Hisui announced their name. There was a brief pause before the host continued, "You are not the winner of the Battle of the Bands. Please join the other bands backstage."
Lucy watched as Lisanna waved graciously to the audience and disappeared into the wings offstage. "That means Trimen and Accidentally On Purpose…" the crowd screamed again, "One of you will be declared the winner of the Battle of the Bands."
Lucy closed her eyes, tipped her head down and squeezed hard on the hands she held in her own. "Come on…" Natsu muttered underneath his breath at the judge's table.
"The winner of the Battle of the Bands… who will receive the Golden Microphone and have the chance to perform tonight with Audio Uproar is…" Lucy took a deep breath in and held it.
.
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"Accidentally On Purpose!" The crowd stood and cheered, louder than Lucy had ever heard them before. Cannons sounded, raining confetti over the stage and over the girls.
Lucy opened her eyes in disbelief… they did it! Levy jumped up and down while still holding onto the blonde's hands before hugging her. Trimen clapped their hands for the girls before leaving the stage.
Lucy, Erza, Juvia and Levy all shared a group hug. Jura, Wolfheim and Warrod all stood at their places at the judge's table and applauded wildly for the girls.
Natsu jumped over the table and ran up the steps of the stage with the guys following closely behind him. "You did it!" Natsu cried as he approached the group of girls and hugged them. Gray and Jellal joined in the hug and Gajeel only joined in when Jellal pulled him in.
"Congrats girls!" Hisui called as she worked her way into the group hug. "How does it feel to know you've won?!" Hisui asked before leaning the microphone towards Lucy's face.
"It feels amazing! It's been a long and stressful week but we had many friends and fans who pushed us through and believed in us to get us to this point. Thank you so much for this honor!" The crowd applauded again.
"Accidentally On Purpose is officially the Champion of the Battle of the Bands!" Hisui pulled out the golden microphone and handed it to Lucy, who held it up triumphantly.
Hisui left the stage as all the performers took their places. Levy and Gajeel took their places behind their instruments they previously played, which was at the very top platform in the back. Jellal and Erza sat next to one another on the platform to the right of the stage behind their cellos. Gray sighed as he began walking towards the violin waiting for him. Juvia giggled cheerfully as she latched onto his arm to walk the rest of the way towards the platform. Gray picked up the violin as Juvia threw the strap over her shoulder.
Natsu met Lucy in the center of the stage. "You ready for this?" Natsu smiled wildly at her.
Lucy leaned in close to Natsu's face, "I'm fired up." Natu's smirk grew even wider. Lucy and Natsu retreated to their beginning spots on stage, with Lucy on stage right and Natsu on stage left.
"Without further ado, I present to you Audio Uproar and this year's winners… Accidentally On Purpose!"
(Keyboard- Levy, Drums- Gajeel, Violin- Gray, Cello- Jellal and Erza, Guitar- Juvia)
The stage was dark except a single spotlight over Lucy. Levy played softly in the background as Lucy sang. Lucy kept her head down and her eyes shut as she sang.
Help me, it's like the walls are caving in
Sometimes I feel like giving up
But I just can't
It isn't in my blood
Nastu walked forward into the spotlight waited for him on the left side of the stage. He stared out into the audience with a straight face.
Laying on the bathroom floor, feeling nothing
I'm overwhelmed and insecure, give me something
Natsu motioned with an open hand towards his chest then his heart.
I could take to ease my mind slowly
Just have a drink and you'll feel better
Just take her home and you'll feel better
Keep telling me that it gets better
Does it ever?
Natsu gave a half-hearted shrug.
Help me, it's like the walls are caving in
Lucy raised her free arm up like she was pushing on the walls around her. She lifted her head up towards the audience and shook her head.
Sometimes I feel like giving up
No medicine is strong enough
Someone help me
I'm crawling in my skin
Sometimes I feel like giving up
Natsu made an uncomfortable wiggle before turning to look at Lucy.
But I just can't
As the entire group of both bands sang, all the lights came on, illuminating them in their places. Lucy bent over to hit her big note as Natsu stood and faced her.
It isn't in my blood
Oh no
Natsu and Lucy slowly took steps towards one another to meet center stage.
It isn't in my blood
Oh oh
Just before they met, Lucy turned away from Natsu ad looked down at her open hand before pulling at her hair.
I'm looking through my phone again, feeling anxious
Afraid to be alone again, I hate this
She looked over her shoulder in the pinkette's direction.
I'm trying to find a way to chill, can't breathe, oh
Natsu stood back to back with Lucy. She gripped her chest and sighed before he began.
Is there somebody who could
Help me, it's like the walls are caving in
Natsu reached his hand forward before grabbing his hair too and shaking his head.
Sometimes I feel like giving up
No medicine is strong enough
Someone help me
Lucy turned forward and took a few steps towards the audience. She gripped her new gold microphone tight in her hands.
I'm crawling in my skin
Sometimes I feel like giving up
But I just can't
Lucy turned to see Natsu had met het at the stage and they faced one another. Lucy belted into the golden microphone as the others sang their line.
It isn't in my blood
No no no
It isn't in my blood
Lucy pounded her chest as Natsu smiled at her.
Oh oh
I need somebody now
I need somebody now
Natsu pointed at his chest while Lucy stomped her foot and threw a fist towards the ground.
Someone to help me out
I need somebody now
As the instruments ceased for a moment, the lights went out except for the spotlights on Natsu and Lucy. The two were facing each other center stage, each wearing a soft, desperate face.
Help me, it's like the walls are caving in
Lucy raised her arm up again, as if she was resting it on the wall in front of her.
Sometimes I feel like giving up
Natsu raised his hand and met Lucy's. At first, he wore the same desperate look, but then a smile grew on his face.
She felt lost and alone and she needed help. She found that at Fairy Tail, with all her friends, her new family. She felt like giving up in the past, everyone has that moment, she learned that. But the man in front of her helped her see that she was not alone in that feeling and he helped her through it. He was a fighter and he showed her she was one too.
But I just can't
Lucy laced her fingers with Natsu's and held his hand tightly as they belted their next line.
It isn't in my blood
Oh no
It isn't in my blood
Natsu spun Lucy in a circle before releasing her hand but they continued to face one another.
No oh
It isn't in my blood
I need somebody now
It isn't in my blood
I need somebody now
It isn't in my blood
The lights faded, except for a soft spotlight on gray who continued playing the violin. Gray stopped and the lights all went out.
The audience responded with a roar of applause. Mira clutched her chest in the wings; she was freaking out not just because her band had won and she was so proud, but also because of the small Nalu moment which she believed just transpired on stage. Laxus had to keep her from fainting in delight.
The lights came back up and the bands were down center stage in another group hug. Mira and Laxus ran out to join them on stage. The judges left their table and came on stage to congratulate the winner.
Hisui, being the host, gave a send out for the show as the celebration continued in the background. Lucy was laughing with Levy as Jura approached her. "Congratulations ladies." Both Levy and Lucy gave their thanks before Levy's attention was pulled away by someone else.
"This is for you," Jura handed Lucy an envelope.
"Me?" Lucy asked as the bald man nodded. Lucy opened the envelope and saw it was filled with legal paperwork. "What's this?" Lucy asked as Mira walked behind her to see what was going on.
"That is the legal ownership paperwork for the song 'Praying' which you performed for your acoustic night."
"Any song performed during the competition by any band automatically belongs to the show." Mira explained.
Lucy turned her attention back to the judge. "That song was very powerful and obviously meant a lot to you… I can't live knowing we were the ones keeping you from sharing that with the world. It is belongs to you."
Lucy's eyes began to tear up. She had been through so much in her life and that song, while being a pain to write, was the best thing she has written. Unable to contain her joy, the blonde jumped forward and wrapped her arms around Jura's neck. The bald judge chuckled and reciprocated the hug.
Jura again gave his congrats before moving on to one of the other girls. Mira leaned over the blonde's shoulder, "If we don't hurry and get out of here, we will be late."
"Late? For what?" Levy, Erza and Juvia joined Mira and Lucy. "You're Celebration party! You won after all!"
"Who's ready to party?!" Gajeel yelled, causing everyone to chuckle. Audio Uproar, Accidentally On Purpose, their managers and all the other bands who competed in the competition all gathered in the party hall area where they had their first event.
Lucy had the time of her life drinking and dancing with her friends, some old and some new. The AU boys were extra rambunctious tonight but Laxus let them have some leeway since it was a celebration after all.
They danced and laughed and partied all night, right up until their heads hit their pillows at the end of the night. Lucy's last thought before she drifted off to sleep was of the feeling she had performing with Audio Uproar as thousands of screaming fans cheered for them… yeah, she could never give this up.