As always - Fairy Tail belongs to Hiro Mashima and everything Pradesh belongs to Desna.
A/N - I know it's been a while. I suffer from insomnia which at times can really impact my motivation and creativity. Then this whole Coronavirus thing hit and everything has changed. But I sincerely hope you haven't given up on me, I haven't given up on you. I hope everyone is staying safe and doing well.
Bickslow was thoroughly entertained by the boy's wonder and excitement as they approached the air dock. He deferred explaining how it worked to his brother Farron when they finally arrived, but that was mostly because he didn't know the answers himself. Lacrima technology was something he used, but he never tried to really understand how it worked. By the time they reached the ship Lucas was practically vibrating.
Farron pulled his brother into a massive hug. "Been a long time Bix. Everyone is excited you are finally coming home."
Bickslow grinned. "Yeah, I'm excited too. It feels like forever since I was there."
"Who is this ball of energy with you? And where are Lucy and Van?" Farron let go of his brother, tears misting his eyes slightly.
"This is Lucas, I'm sure Van told you about him. He's very excited about the airship. I told him you could explain how it worked." He smirked at the dubious expression on his brother's face. "Van is escorting Lucy to the palace right now. The Queen demanded her presence. They will head here as soon as that finishes. Lucas, this is my big brother Farron."
Bickslow nudged the boy who stammered out a greeting. His eyes wide and trying to peer past Farron to see into the ship.
"Why would Hisui want to see Lucy?" Farron asked.
"No clue really. That's why Van went with. She fancies them friends, but that couldn't be farther from the truth."
Farron nodded and looked to Lucas. He leaned down a bit, "It is nice to meet you Lucas. Vander spoke highly of you and your talents. How about a tour of the ship?" He laughed as the boy started bouncing in excitement. "I will try to answer your questions if I can, but you may have to ask Kaleb when we arrive in Bosco for the technical details. Come on you two. Vander knows this ship well, they will find us when they arrive."
Lucy took a deep breath as they approached the palace gates. Vander could tell she was anxious. "I'm surprised you didn't dress up for this, not that I don't always appreciate your choice of clothing."
"There's no reason for me to be uncomfortable," she huffed back. "I have that covered however." In a flash she was in a black gown with gold trim, hair in a bun. "Better? This way I also have the Regulus power in case I need to punch my way out of here." She grumbled.
"Oh, that is one of my favorites of yours."
"Mine as well." Loke appeared beside her. "Would you like me to join you, my Princess?" Vander had to admit the two looked a pair with her in his star dress and he in his suit.
"No need Loke, I'm hoping to keep this short and Vander is with me."
"As you wish. Call me if you need anything." Lucy promised to call him out if needed and the Lion spirit vanished.
She took another deep breath and looked at Vander. "Shall we get this over with?"
"Indeed my lady," he quipped, holding an arm out for her which she took as they approached the guards and were escorted into the palace.
They were brought to a large sitting room with a beautiful view of the gardens where they waited. Lucy paced while Vander just leaned against the wall looking as bored as ever. Servants brought tea which neither partook in. After what seemed like an hour to Lucy, Hisui finally arrived. She put on her heiress facade and curtsied, "Your highness."
Hisui ran over and grabbed Lucy's hands, "Oh there is no need for that. We've known each other far too long. It is so good to see you again my dearest Lucy." Vander could see Lucy's eye twitch slightly but there was otherwise nothing but happiness reflected on her face. Oh, she's good he thought to himself.
"Who is this dark and mysterious gentleman you have brought with you?" Hisui asked, eyeing Vander like he was an ice cream sundae.
Lucy just waved her hand dismissively, "He's just escorting me. I am heading to Bosco today for several months and I've somehow managed to arrange a ride with the Ambassador." She really didn't want to get into details and wanted to move this meeting along. "Hopefully, he isn't too upset at the delay in our departure. I am certain he will understand since you requested this meeting."
"Oh dear, well I shan't keep you long then. Farron is a dear, so I am sure this will be fine." Hisui smiled at her and pulled her along to look out the windows at the view. "Losing my father and becoming Queen has been difficult. No matter how much you think you have prepared for it, you are never fully ready but I am doing my best. I am holding a celebration for my coronation in one month. We delayed it to allow for the mourning of my father's passing. I do hope you will attend."
"I am very sorry for the loss of your father, my Queen. He was a good man. I am not sure I will be able to attend however as I will be out of the country." Lucy replied.
"Please, just call me Hisui. I am not used to this Queen business yet and I consider us friends. My dear Farron will be coming so I am certain I can arrange for your trip. I will prepare a room so that you can stay in the palace." Both Vander and Lucy's eyes twitched.
"I would be honored, Hisui. Although the room is unnecessary. I always stay at the Honeybone Inn while in Crocus for sentimental reasons." Lucy replied softly. Mentally she sighed, there was no getting out of this one.
"Fantastic! I am so happy you will be there. There is one small favor I would ask of you…" Here we go, Lucy thought.
Lucy and Vander meandered through the gardens after their excusal. "Are you freaking kidding me?" Lucy vented, waving a list of names clutched in her hand. "She's using her coronation ball as a giant hook up and wants me to get all of the eligible powerful and good looking mages to attend? This is just a giant booty call!. Laxus will never agree. No way."
Vander just let her vent while he enjoyed the view. She was flushed by her anger and hadn't yet changed out of her star dress. She continued to stomp through the garden for a few minutes before she turned on him looking defeated. He much preferred the angry Lucy look. "We should go. I'm sure your brother is getting tired of waiting on us."
"Don't worry about Farron. He has the patience of a saint. Want to take the quick way back?" Lucy nodded. "Come here and hold on tight and close your eyes." Suddenly she was flushed for a different reason, recalling what it felt like to wake up wrapped in those arms. She relaxed into his hold as he breathed in her scent. He was playing with fire being so close to her after the night before and he knew it, but he wanted to hold her again. "This will be over in a few minutes. Just hang on and keep your eyes closed okay?" She nodded against his chest as they melted into the shadows.