I do not own Fairy Tail that is Hiro Mashima's masterpiece.

April 30th 2020

Chapter 24 – Until Next Time

Draco felt as if he was being ripped apart from the inside, his dragon instincts were erupting, the first wave hit when he heard his master's warning call. A second wave followed as he listened to the attack, yet the worst of it was when he became assaulted with the phantom pains. His very being agonizing each event knowing his master's body was exploding with pain. As the air slowly saturated with the metallic scent of her blood, the only thing holding his rage was her command.

The only positive he could hold onto was Lucy, Star had been right all along she knew the young Celestial mage was special. That Lucy was a smart one, calling out to him, letting him know exactly where to go. At least Lucy was there with Star fighting to protect her.

His connection to the Heartfilia women was always a double edge sword, while he always respected them, it was times like these he found himself trapped silently enraged, chained down to wait out his Celestial master's orders.

Bound by this damned contract, not able to leave until Zeref was safely off the property. All for Layla and Lucy's safety but what about his master? She would never figure herself into the equation that part had the dragon furious as if she didn't understand what her getting hurt meant to him.

The turn of events was problematic; Star was a half-dragon and tough as nails, yet she would not be able to protect herself with Zeref close by. She would never risk Lucy or Layla's life. She would die first; it was days like this he hated Star's royal upbringing. Igneel, Anna, Kalen, Legba, even he, all were guilty of teaching her, a leader should always protect their people at all cost.

Over her lifetimes he had seen his master face hopeless odds time and time again while on Earth and the in-between. Each time he was forced to watch her die, it ripped him apart, but a least then he knew she would reincarnate. She was a rebirth; it was all part of her training, why her soul was split.

But being here, back in Earthland things were different; this was Star, her true body. If she were to die now, everything they all had sacrificed would be for nothing. He would fail Igneel and Anna, most of all he didn't know if he could live if he lost his master.

While the dragon lost himself focusing on the girls, he forgot he was in a meeting and didn't hear Zeref speaking to him. The dark mage grew concerned, never had he seen the Celestial dragon to be so unfocused in his presence.

"Draco?" he questioned cautiously.

Draco snapped out of his thoughts and gazed down on the dark mage, "Hmmm… Sorry, what ya goin on about?" agitation clearly laced in his tone.

"What has you so lost in thought?" Zeref was truly puzzled by the Celestial dragon's distress.

Draco looked between Zeref and Layla finding both mages to be studying him nervously. The dragon snorted out some sparks of silver while shaking his head.

"It's just Lucy, she's damn near the spittin image of Star. I miss them…"

It was true so Draco used the very thing that had been haunting him since his return to Earthland. The first time he saw Layla he remembered his words, "A…Anna…?" he gulped as he continued to cry, falling to his knees as if begging would help, "please… please… please by the stars let it be you!" His voiced cracked as tears continued to fill his eyes. His heart still ached for Anna, he loved her dearly, she was never just his master she was his friend, his family.

Zeref, swallowed hard, as he stared into the dragon's glowing white eyes. He understood and shared Draco's struggle, he too regretted the events of 400 years ago, it was his plan that resulted in the death of Anna and her family. To ease the dragon's burden, Zeref hurried the conversation along, knowing his presence brought the dragon unnecessary torment.

"Layla the gate is currently in Crocus, I will be here just a little after mid-night on July 7th, the moon will be close to fully eclipsed. I will take you to the gate via my magic, currently the gate is hidden under the palace so we will not be disturbed."

"I will be ready." Layla promised.

"Give my regards to Lucy, I must go and make sure Acnologia will not be an issue. Good day Layla, Draco until next time." Zeref gave a slight bow, as he then turned on his heel heading toward his carriage.

Once the dark mage was inside Layla questioned the Celestial dragon, "Draco are the…"

"Shhh… it's not safe yet." Draco lightly scolded.

In the distance Draco could feel a strong magical presence beyond the barrier, it was confirmed when he heard an unknown man yelling. He knew someone else had found the girls, Draco just hoped Zeref would continue on his way.

Something was after the girls, big mistake to go after anyone under the protection of a dragon, it equaled to a promise, whatever was out there was going to die this day.

As soon as Zeref was safely out of the way, Draco turned his attention to the mountains, it was time to go after his master, he stopped when Layla placed a hand on his leg.

"Something is wrong isn't it?" Layla questioned, yet her words were a demand.

Draco could only nod in response, it was taking everything in him not to fly into a rage.

"Your taking me with you!" Layla commanded.

"No!" Was all he could manage to growl out.

Layla moved from the dragon's side to in front of him a gesture to block his path. "Star ordered you to stay and protect me, and now I'm ordering you, to take me to my daughter and your master. DO YOU UNDERSTAND ME!"

Draco stopped, his maw dropped open wide, he found himself momentarily at a loss for words. The dragon never seen Layla so forceful, at that moment he saw Anna coming through. Finally, he saw the Heartfilia fire burning brightly in Layla's eyes.

With a deadly grin, showing off his razor-sharp teeth, Draco gave a slight bow then offered the Celestial mage his claw; once safely seated he closed his claw carefully around the mage. He knew if anything were to happen to Layla on his watch Star would skin him alive.

He turned his head to the sky focusing on the Celestial pressure building outside Igneel's barrier. Star and Lucy had given him his direction; it was time to save the girls.

As he soared the distance, to the edge of Igneels land the smell of Star's blood increased. Draco knew things were critical, by the smell of things she had lost a great deal of blood. Worse was he hadn't heard her voice in sometime. He could only hear the voice of Lucy and an unidentified male, who at the moment seemed to be helping the girls.

As he neared the barrier he landed just out of sight, releasing Layla as he transformed back into his human form. Grabbing Layla by the hand, the pair took off running to the edge of the tree line. As they approached, he could see the red glow of Igneel's magic, as the pair passed through the barrier both gasped in horror, at what lay before them. It was a scene of sheer brutal destruction, "what in the hell did this" Draco exhaled.

Before either could take a step forward, seemingly out of nowhere Lucy appeared, "Momma… Draco… please help, Star is hurt badly!"

Lucy was a little scratched up and her clothes were torn, stained almost black from dirt and Star's blood, but for the battle Draco could hear from the distance, he thought she looked damn good. Layla looked at her daughter in shock, lunging at her as she pulled her into a tight hug, all while scolding the girl, between tears and thanking the stars that she was alright.

"Hey, are you these kids' parents?" A stranger appeared and questioned the pair, Draco now had a face to go with the voice he had heard off in the distance.

"This one with the pretty blue eyes is hurt pretty bad, I wasn't fast enough to stop the blow she took from that bastard beast." The stranger growled as he lowered his head in shame.

Draco's blue eyes went wide, there laying limp in the stranger's arms was his master. Star's midsection was oozing blood and he could see light grey meaning the cuts were deep enough to reach her internal organs. At the sight, the dragon found he couldn't breathe, hear, he couldn't feel Star, she was silent still as death.

He lunged forward to grab the girl, the stranger did not resist, together the pair lowered the girl to the ground. Draco removed what was left of the shredded dress surrounding her stomach area; now that he was closer, he could hear a very slow steady heartbeat, her breathing was shallow, but consistent.

The dragon was raging internally, instinct demanded he tear apart everything in his sight for what happened to his mistress, but he needed to hold it together right now she needed him, if she was going to live through the day. Draco could hear the wails of the two Heartfilia descendants, Stars heartbeat, and the rustle of the wind whirling about what was left of the reaming trees in the area. Even with all of that, everything seemed too quiet for the dragon.

He had all but forgot about the stranger kneeled on the other side of Star, he was slightly startled when he heard the strangers speak.

"Damn that kid is a spitfire. Um… She said something weird before she passed out, she called me dad. No disrespect but I don't have any kids, at least that I know of." He said teasing trying to lessen the tension in the air.

Draco listened to the strange male rambling on, the dragon could tell he was an honest man, who genuinely wanted to help. This stranger had done his job, kept his master alive while he was off dealing with Zeref; he owed this mage everything. While Draco was focusing on Star's wounds, the mage brought Draco a much-needed distraction from his own fears. So, he engaged the man.

"Ya look a lot like her pop is all. I wanna thank ya for helpin the girls. Ya mage, right? What's yer name and who do ya serve?"

"No thanks needed, I can't stand anyone or thing trying to hurt a kid. The names Gildarts Clive; I'm a mage of the Fairy Tail guild back in Magnolia. Say, are you a Celestial spirit, I heard the other girl Lucy, call out to one for help?"

Draco nodded yes in response to the mage, "names Draco, leader of the Celestial Dragon's, n' this little spitfire is me master, Star."

"Wait! Hold on… You're telling me this… this little girl can control a Celestial spirit with your power level! If that's true, why in the HELL would she hold back, especially during an attack?"

Draco didn't know why but his gut told him this man could be trusted, "she was doin' her duty and protectin' her people. I can't tell ya any more than that."

Gildarts frowned as he stared hard at the Celestial spirit in front of him, he could tell the spirit was in agony over what had happed to this girl named Star. He decided not to ask any more questions, this was not his business, he completed his job ridding the area of the Gorians. It was time he got headed back home to the guild.

The mage was contemplating his next move when he heard a small moan. Gildarts eyes looked down to the girl he had just saved, as she stare back at him with desperate wide eyes, but quickly a sad realization slowly peeled away her surprise, leaving only the pain of loss.

In a scratchy exhausted voice, "you're not him, you're not my dad." Her disappointment in this knowledge stung all those gathered around her small body.

Before any could speak to comfort the girl, she gave a shaky sigh, and started giving orders to all within the group, just like that she fell back into her normal role as a leader. For Draco it was like she was back on Earth or the in-between barking orders not wasting time to feel sorry for herself. He knew she would take time later to deal with her emotions, but now was not the time.

"Draco, I need you to move me back across the barrier so I can fix this wound. Lady Layla, Lucy, please proceed to the safety of the barrier."

Gildarts was impressed with the authority this little girl commanded with a natural grace, he could tell she was in good hands, that meant it was time for him to go. "Glad to see you awake. Well I better get…"

"No… Sir, please join us on the other side of the barrier." Star reached grabbing onto the tattered cloak with as much strength as she could muster

Gildarts chuckled finding he wanted to know more about this strange little girl, "I guess I can't turn down the request, I have a feeling you would sic your dragon on me if I declined."

"No worse, I'd let Lady Layla have a word, she is the matriarch of these lands, and she is not to be trifled with. Even my dragon follows her command." Star gave Gildarts a devilish smirk as her eyes flittered toward the Celestial mage. Layla gave her own nod of recognition as her soft brown orbs seem to bore into the mages very soul.

"What is it with these women," Gildarts wondered to himself as all eyes were trained on him.

Draco couldn't hold back his laugh, as he pulled Star slowly into his arms making sure not to cause anymore unnecessary pain to the damaged area. The dragon found himself more at ease at with his master's words, even seriously hurt she was still lighthearted. He knew then everything would be alright.

Once Star was safe within the barrier, Draco laid her back down on the ground to do a better inspection of her wounds.

"Kiddo this is bad, yea bleedin' like a stuck pig. I need to call Legba…"

"NO! He will make me return earlier and I need a day or two. PLEASE DRACO!"

"Star, I can't fix this…"

"I know… I can do it, but I'm tired, so I'm going to need you to help guide my hand."

Draco was puzzled by his master's words, he knew over the years she had developed a basic understanding of simple healing, but this damage was beyond her abilities. She did not possess the healing magic of the sky dragons; his eyes went wide when he realized what she was about to do.

"HELL NO, ya can't be serious! I ain't gonna let you do that! I'm your guardian, n' I'm putting my foot down. NO!"

"Draco please! I just need some time, then you can call Legba." Star looked over to Layla her eyes silently pleading with her to back her up, but the Celestial mage shook her head no. She would not interfere this was between spirit and master.

Draco saw the silent request Star had made to the Celestial mage. He was please Layla removed herself from this dispute. Still, deep down the spirit knew this had to be important, Star was never one to openly argue in front of a stranger.

"What's so damn important ya willin' to do this to ya self? The scars will be…"

"I don't care about scars. Dragon's wear them with pride a symbol of strength, to prove the pain has left, and one has healed and lived on."

"Star ya aint a dragon… N' to do this…"

"How can you, out of everyone say that to me…" Tears pricked the corners of her eyes. His words stung, she was a dragon! True she maybe only half, but she was a dragon! Those words cut so deep she want to cry, but the warrior in her refused, she had a plan and she was going to make Draco understand.

"I have an idea for the slayers. I need this time for them and Lucy. Please Draco, I don't care about scars. This is for my family. Please!"

Draco knew his words were harsh, the way she looked at him as if he had betrayed her. He had to stop her, the idea of her bearing scars, because he was not there to protect her made him ill. Yet, it was not within him to outright refuse his master.

"Ya got five minutes to explain or I'm callin that damn cross-road demon for help."

Star huffed at her dragon in frustration, he was worried, and she knew he was right. She was putting her life at risk not calling for the appropriate help. However, Star would not pass up this opportunity, there had to be a reason this stranger showed up and she would not refuse this gift which The Fates appeared to have given her.

Gildarts watched in silence as the Celestial dragon and his little master argued back and forth. He knew he was right about the kid, there was way more to her than the outside appearance. She had a maturity well beyond her years; yet he could see a vulnerability.

When she spoke of her family, something bad must have happened to make her so distressed. What did this child want from someone like him, at least he did not have to wait long for that answer.

"Sir, I believe I heard you advise my spirit, you're a member of a magic guild, would that be correct?"

"You heard correct, I'm a member of the Fairy Tail guild, our home is the town of Magnolia. Before we continue, I got no need for formalities, just call me Gildarts okay kid?"

Star smirked, she liked this mage, she only hoped his guild mates were similar. She smiled at the name Fairy Tail, and here she was with Fey blood, what were the odds. Definitely a gift from the Creator and The Fates.

"Okay then Gildarts, so your guild takes jobs for the right price?"

"Well yeah, I was coming to clear out the Gorians, when I came upon you and your twin."

"My name is Star and Lucy is not my twin; she is my cousin. So Gildarts, let's get down to business shall we, I want to hire your guild, Fairy Tail, for an important job."

This time it was Gildarts turn to smirk, as he stared at the child in front of him. He wondered what secrets, were hidden behind those blue eyes. In this moment there was no carefree playfulness of youth, only the mystery of unmeasurable knowledge. The mage was overcome with a feeling whatever this girl was proposing would change the guild forever.

That day gave birth to the foundation, for what would become the most notorious, loyal, and family driven guild Earthland would ever know.

As the next morning broke, Draco watched her breathing; it was slow, steady, laced with a hint of fatigue. He could tell she was still in great pain, as she flinched from her dreams, but at least for now Star slept. He kept replaying yesterday's events in his head, wondering how Star always managed to convince him to see things her way.

The truth was simple, he couldn't say no to her; no… it wasn't that either, he didn't want to ever say no to her. She was everything to him, he had known it from the day she was born, she was more important than his own life.

He used to justify the strong emotions he had for her, on the magic of the bond between him and her parents, Anna, and Igneel. A blood bond, there where very few magics which were stronger. He found it was easier to believe he cared, simply because she was the daughter of his best friends.

Even though he was now a Celestial spirit, he was born a dragon, and instinct told him this feeling was so much more than mere loyalty. The blood bond magic they produced that day was strong, no doubt. This pull however was deeper, and as time passed, he found it harder and harder to lie to himself. Finally accepting the truth when she was only fifteen, the day she was taken, the next three-years he wanted to destroy the world for what had been done to her.

That day told him everything he needed to know; he just wondered how Anna had known from the beginning. He could still remember the first time she spoke to him about it, and how angry he was, he could not understand why he needed so desperately to fight against it.

To this day he remembered, Anna just smiling as he raged in his temper tantrum. She never was scared of her Celestial dragon's outbursts; Anna would just shake her head at him. Then with loving eyes and the soft voice she told him, "one day you will understand, this is a wonderful gift, I couldn't be prouder. I know she will always be safe as long as you are by her side."

"I wonder if she'd still believe that, if she could see Star now?" He mumbled to himself, as he wallowed in self-pity.

Yesterday haunted him, he gave into his masters wish, by not calling Legba for help. He agreed to give her today, but then he would call the that damn cross-roads demon, to help his master per their agreement.

He approved of her plan to hire Fairy Tail; in the end it was the only option, a solid plan. Star had spent years trying to find a way to help Natsu and the rest of her family. He hated the desperation that haunted her blue eyes, but Gildarts agreement gave her peace of mind, that was enough for him.

Yet the worst part of that day, was to come when he helped guide her hand by holding her tiny wrist. She engulfed her hand in flames, increasing the intensity until the flame flickered a blueish-white. She didn't have her full control, as her blood loss was great.

Her flames burned him for the first time ever, when she realized what she was doing she cried for him. She tried to pull back so not to hurt him further, he commanded her to push forward and not worry about him. He would endure any pain for her, he saw the scorch marks on his skin as a mark from one he loved so dearly.

What energy she had left she had to force away her natural resistance to fire, he had seen her do this back on Earth as Dawn, during the Salem Witch trials sacrificing herself to save others. She allowed herself to be set on fire, and the damage fueled her nightmares for decades. He still caught her flinching sometimes even with her own fire.

She took a deep breath, scanning his eyes, mirrors of her very own; she needed his strength, she tried to be brave, but her eyes couldn't lie to him, she was vulnerable and afraid. Understanding what she needed from him, with a slight nod he held her wrist firmly, working together in unison, as she proceeded to cauterize her own gaping wounds.

Smell of her charring flesh was nearly unbearable, he wanted to look away but held his masters gaze. He could hear the whimpering of Layla and Lucy as they watched in horror, both refusing to leave, choosing to stand guard and watch over the pair as they worked fix the damaged area and stop the bleeding.

Star had tried so hard not to scream not wanting to upset anyone; Draco placed a piece of wood wrapped in leather in her mouth to give her something to bite down on. She fought off her cries at first, but he whispered to her to let it go don't hold it in. In that moment her strength spiked, snapping the wood in half. Layla's quick thinking placed a silence barrier around the small party. So not to gather any attention from the servants back at the estate.

As she howled in pain, Layla and Lucy shuttered their tears and watched closely as the dragon princess completed the scarring of her stomach. Suddenly the cries stopped, Star laid there silent, exhausted, unconscious from the pain.

Draco refused to sleep that night, not that he needed to; he feared her heart would stop beating during the night. Her blood loss was great, and the cauterizing had taken every ounce of strength she had left.

Layla had carefully cleaned her up, covering her midsection with magic ointments made to heal severe burns and lessen the possibility for scarring. She had told the dragon she kept such items in stock for her servants.

Layla may not have been royalty, but she cared for her servants as her people. She insured they had the best care available. Draco was grateful for her loving heart; it seemed no matter the era, the Heartfilia women were all the same. Loving, caring, and fiercely devoted to family and the ones they loved.

Draco was still in a state of meditation when he heard Layla coming; opening the door before she could knock and possibly wake Star. Before him stood Layla she looked frail, as if she had not slept in weeks.

"Whatcha, doin here so early Layla? Ya should be restin."

Layla gave a small smile, swiping her hand in the air to show she was fine. "I wanted to speak with you about Star."

Draco paused for a moment. If they talked in the hall, and Star woke she would hear them. He got the impression Layla wanted to speak with him in private.

"Just a moment… Merc I need ya?" Draco called out.

Suddenly a man appeared he was shorter than Draco with the reddest hair Layla had ever seen, his eyes looked like swirls of molten gold. She didn't know why but she knew this was one of Star's other dragon spirits.

"Merc, this is Layla, she's Lucy's mom. The kiddo Star was tellin ya about."

Merc bowed with respect for the Heartfilia matriarch. "It is my pleasure Lady Layla; my mistress speaks highly of you and your daughter Lucy."

"The pleasure is all mine. Might I inquire which of the planets are you linked too?"

"I see Star has kept you well informed of her spirits. I'm linked to the planet known as Mercury, I'm built for speed, have use of telepathy, and am known to be an excellent negotiator. On Earth humans thought of me as one of the gods, much like all of the Celestial dragons at one point in time. However we are not gods or even demi-gods, just dragons who had unique abilities that the Creator gave to the Celestial King."

"Amazing…" Layla gasped in wonder. Though Star had told her all this information, it was so different when you could learn from the actual spirit.

"Merc, I need ya to watch over Star. Let me know if she stirs."

"Draco… Are you sure? It's not like you to leave her side when she has been injured this bad."

"Can't be helped, but this place was built to keep her safe. Get inside we'll talk later."

Merc nodded in understanding not willing to question his leader further, Draco's demeanor was solemn, something that rarely came from the Celestial dragon. He was always the most cheerful of the Celestial Dragons almost to the point of childish. Merc quietly stepped inside closing the door without another word.

Draco proceeded to follow Layla down the halls of the estate to her private library. It was adorned with two stories of books from all genres and time periods. At the end of the room, the wall was made of floor to ceiling grand windows, with a reading nook built big enough for a small meeting. Layla took a seat and offered the other end of the sofa to Draco.

"Thank you for yesterday, if it had not been for yours and Star's presence, I believe Zeref would have taken Lucy based on my health."

"Ain't gonna happen while where here." Draco assured the mage.

Layla gave a sad smile; she was grateful for the dragon princess assistance, but she knew yesterday had cost her greatly.

"Tell me the truth, how is Star?"

"Healin, thanks to you, the swellin and redness are going down. She'll have scarin but won't be near as bad due to your aid."

Layla was solemn as she nodded. Tear started to build up in the corner of Layla's eyes threatening to spill at any moment.

"Did you know she saved Lucy's life? She told me everything."

"Ya need to stop right there. Star's gonna be fine no need for tears. Yeah, Star saved Lucy, but Lucy also saved Star. Lucy is gonna be one fine woman, Anna would be proud to see ya all."

Layla wiped her tears, giving Draco a smile, "the payment has been sent to Fairy Tail, as Star requested. I've also sent additional funds to the guild."

"Ya didn't have to do that, Igneel's horde has more than enough funds."

"Yes, but I wanted to assist as well. From the stories Star has told of Natsu and the others, I believe the guild will need it."

"Layla… Umm… never mind, you know ya might be right, those brats are something else." Draco shook his head there was no use in arguing he would lose anyway. Heartfilia woman were headstrong to a fault.

"Thanks, so what did ya really want to talk about?"

Layla sighed then gave a light laugh, "you see right through me, Star does the same. It's unnerving you know. No one else can do that, not even Jude."

"Yeah well… I'm ancient, and Star, always been that way, even when she was little." Draco said with a shrug to his shoulders.

"Speaking of Star, you're making her leave today?"

"Gotta she has to heal. Gonna call that damn cross-roads demon Legba later today. But not until she gets her time alone with Lucy. I promised her that much."

"Are we going to remember you or Star when you leave?"

"I don't think so, it really wouldn't be safe."

"I see," Layla was deep in thought carefully choosing her next words.

"I'm dying Draco, I did not want to accept it but, Star was right. Opening the gate is going to kill me."

Desperation set in Layla's eyes as they glassed over, "I need Lucy to remember Star, and what she taught her, so she can be strong once I'm gone."

"…" Draco was shocked he didn't know how to help; it wasn't up to him what was remembered it was all tied to the spell cast over 400 years ago.

As he looked at the mage all he could see was a mother trying to do what she could for her little girl, with her last couple of days. It brought his thoughts back to Anna and how she wanted nothing more than to walk through the gate with her family.

"I'll talk to Star, havin Fey magic she might be able to do somethin. It may only be a subtle persuasion at the most. But ya need to know, Star didn't make Lucy strong, she got that strength from you. Star just took what was already there and built on it. She's believed in Lucy from the moment she met her. An after yesterday, I'd say Star's right about Lucy; girl's gonna be a force to reckon with."

Layla couldn't help it as her smile widened, beaming from Draco's words of praise for her daughter. Pride a parent feels for a child being one of the strongest emotions one can feel.

"Anything she can do is better than nothing. Thank you both for everything."

Draco had just made it back to the room as Star started to stir, "Yo Merc, I got this ya can head back to Earth."

Merc gave a nod to leave but stopped cold when he heard his masters voice, "No please stay."

Both dragons had missed Star being awake, she soon informed the two she had been aware of everything for hours just too tired to alert anyone.

Having not seen his mistress in some time, Merc went over to the girl, engulfing her into a loving hug, "so I see your back to your old tricks. Trying to take on an army with both hands tied behind your back?" The dragon smirked has he teased, rubbing the top of her head to mess up her blond locks.

Star blew a raspberry at the dragon, "I wasn't trying to, but fate had other plans for me. Anyway, it all worked out, I met a mage from a magic guild."

Star went on to tell her other spirit everything that had happened in the past 24 hours.

"Are you positive Zeref doesn't expect anything?" Merc questioned.

Star was now sitting up, with her back leaning against the headboard of the bed. "With Zeref, one can never be too safe. However, I do believe he is satisfied for now. You need to get back, please bring the other dragons up to speed. I will call a meeting in the in-between in a couple of days after I have had time to rest upon my return to Earth."

"As you wish princess, see you soon." The dragon patted her head and gave Draco a salute and was gone in an instant.

Draco and Star sat in silence for just a moment before they heard small feet running toward the hall.

"Guess Lucy's up and on her way, as fast as those little legs will carry her. I'm gonna give ya two some space to talk. An Layla's got one more request for ya."

Star look quizzically at her dragon, wondering what could Layla need.

Draco was gone when Lucy flung open the door to Stars room. She was out of breath, "are… are you… are you okay?"

Star couldn't help but laugh at her cousin's antics. "Slow down… geez your gonna pass out!"

Lucy just smiled, then her eyes fell to the bandages around her cousin stomach area and her eyes began to get puffy.

"Don't you start crying, there is nothing to be sad about. YOU WERE SO AWESOME YESTERDAY! The bravery you showed for your family was amazing. Better yet, you used the skills I taught you and came up with a plan. Outnumbered, outpowered, and you held your own. That was something you should be proud of!"

Lucy started to blush, no one but her mother, had made her feel so empowered. Slowly her glow faded as she grew somber, "you're leaving sooner than planned, aren't you?"

"Yes, but only after I have time with you. There are some final things I need to tell you."

"Like what?"

"You're gonna forget me and Draco when we leave."

Lucy started to panic, "NO, I WOULD NEVER FORGET YOU BOTH! HOW COULD I!".

Star reached out grabbing her cousin's hand. "It's because of the spell, that was cast so long ago. It's also safer for you, to forget us for now."

Tears started to fall, "I don't want to forget." Lucy began to sob.

"Hey, I said no tears. I don't want you to either, but it's not up to me. There is one thing I can do."

"What?"

"Let me see your whip."

Lucy did not question her cousin handing it over. Placing her hands over the top of the whip, Star enchanted the item with a prayer in the Celtic tongue of the ancient Fey. It glowed bright white then fading away in soft shades of blue.

"Here, when we leave you will still have the whip, but promise me you will hide it from your father. Only use it when you can train in private."

"What did you do to the whip?"

"It's a Fey thing, the magic allows you to feel close to me when you need me. Like a voice in the back of your head. You may also dream of me, but everything will be indirect for your own safety. Your soul will know when you need me most, and then it will feel more like something watching over you."

Lucy took the whip, it hummed with Celestial and Fey magic, each balancing the other. She held the weapon close to her chest soaking in the warmth of the magic.

"Thank you so much for everything!" Lucy squeaked out as she became choked up with emotions.

"My pleasure. I can't wait to see you again. Now there are two very important items we need to discuss."

"Okay…"

Star hesitated for a moment before pushing on. She was feeling fatigue from her wounds, she had to prepare Lucy the best she could for her future. "My brother…"

"Natsu, right?"

"Yeah, here I created a drawing of him, or at least this is what he looked like the last time I saw him."

"Is his hair really that pink?"

Star smiled, she didn't like the color pink too much, except when it came to Natsu's hair. It was wild like him, "Yeah, like the brightest cherry blossoms in the spring."

"He has fangs too; his eyes are so dark and mysterious. He is so cute!" Lucy cooed.

Star shrugged, "uh… he is okay, I guess, for a brother. Look at this picture and study it, memorize it the best you can."

"Okay but why?"

"I don't know this for sure, but I think your gonna meet him when your older. I want you to know if you run into him, he's a good person, someone you can trust and feel safe with."

"But I thought you said I wouldn't remember anything. If I'm older then will this picture help?"

"Yeah, but your subconscious never turns off, you need to know you can trust your gut. Again, it will be certain traits of his appearance, will click with your instincts, we all have that."

Lucy nodded in understanding, studying it until having to give the drawing back to Star, it was strange as she released the photo, she had this overwhelming feeling to snatch it back.

"Lastly I'm gonna tell you the story of this key." Star held up a silver key, decorated with swirls of gold, encrusted with the bluest sapphires, the edge decorated with red rubies.

Lucy was shocked, she thought she had seen all Star's keys. She wondered why she waited until now to show this last one, what made it so special.

"Now the next time when I come back, I will give this key to you, it will become part of your collection. What I need you to understand you are never to recreate a key like this."

"But why…"

"Lucy, please promise me to never create a key like this."

"Okay, I promise, but you have all the dragon keys each one created by you except for Draco's. Why is this one any different?"

"The cost is way too high. I'll tell you everything." Star promised again.

"So, who's key is it?" Lucy questioned, wondering what was so special and dangerous about this key.

Star sighed she needed to get this over with, "It's my key."

Lucy's head was still spinning with the information Star had given her. In all the time she had been there she knew her cousin was hundreds of years old. However, for Lucy she had only seen her as a child. Yeah, she could be serious but, most of the time the stories she would tell, Lucy thought they were just that, stories.

Today, for the first time she realized how wrong she was. Star's body was that of a ten-year-old, but her mind was far from it. She couldn't believe what her cousin had to do to create that key, what could have driven her to be so desperate. She wanted to ask but couldn't find the courage to dig into that private part of her life.

Layla, Lucy, Draco, and Star had moved out to Layla's garden for the much-needed privacy. Once they left the protected space, the walls shifted closing off the room Draco and Star had occupied the last three-years the only thing that remained was the carving of Anna amongst her spirits and the dragons.

It took everything in Lucy not to cry, that space had become her sanctuary, she lost it and soon she would be losing Star too.

Star was quiet as she studied the clothes that Draco had brought her from the Celestial realm. A long bellowing blue skirt of the lightest of materials decorated with silver and gold threading. Her top the same material but a lose tank top perfect for the warmth of summer.

Star could feel the magic in the garments working to help with the healing process, they also seemed to shift to give her room to move unrestricted. She guessed these clothes would grow as she grew within the lacrima.

It was after five, Draco had not said a word, but Star knew she was pushing it, so she called out to her master Legba. In a moment, the ruler of the in-between was standing before her, with her lacrima prison rising up from the ground behind him.

One look and Star could tell Legba was irritated, "Mon chéri, you are injured badly why did you wait to call me?"

"I needed time to complete somethings here master."

The old spirit ran his hand down his face while shaking his head, "Merde Draco! You should know better, when you gonna learn to say no to her?"

Draco just shrugged his shoulder, "yeah well… Kiddo had a good reason and she did agree to call ya today."

"You both are helpless. Come over her mon chéri, let me see these wounds."

Star stepped over to the spirit lifting her top to show the dressings circling her entire stomach. Legba shook his head, "thank the stars you have dragon and fey magic. Otherwise you would have been dead. Not much I can do for you; since you used dragon's fire to heal the wound. Star tell me, what could have made you so desperate to do this to yourself?"

With a heavy sigh, Star advised Legba of yesterday's events: Zeref's visit, the attack, and her plan for the slayers involving the Fairy Tail guild.

Legba listen without judgement, once Star was done, he let out a long-held sigh. "I see your reasoning; however, I don't agree with your method, putting your life at risk. But I understand, so mon chéri you trust this guild; Fairy Tail you called it."

"Yes master, I do."

"They must have made an impression to gain your trust so completely, along with that of your dragon." Star and Draco simply nodded in agreeance.

Legba then turn his attention to Layla, "Now if you would, please excuse my rudeness, Lady Layla it is a pleasure to see you again, ah… and this must be Lucy. I've heard so many wonderful things about you child."

"It is good to see you again Papa Legba. You are correct this is my daughter Lucy."

Legba smiled at Lucy, he could tell she was going to be a strong mage with an equally strong soul. Star had been right she would be the third member of the triad. Legba bowed his head to the girl, "it's truly my pleasure miss Lucy."

Lucy pulled away from her mother, looking up to meet Legba's eyes, and in fluid practiced form, curtsied to the leader of the in-between, "the honor is mine Sir Legba."

"Oh… l like this one! Mon chéri, I hope miss Lucy's demeanor has rubbed off on you." The spirit laughed as he gave his apprentice a smirk.

"Whatever…" Star grumbled under her breath, clearly not in the mood for another lecture from Legba, on her inadequate etiquette skills, as he called it.

Legba was giving Layla her final instructions on how to seal Star back within the lacrima. Star had tuned out the conversation instead focusing on how quite Lucy had become.

"Hey you okay?" Star questioned.

Tears quietly rolled down Lucy's cheeks in fine little rivers, yet she was calm when she spoke. "I… I don't want you to leave; is there any way you can stay?"

The area grew silent, as the adults shifted their focused on the two girls, "I wish I could, but it's not my time. I promise as a Celestial mage, I will be back."

"Okay… Star I'm glad I got to meet you. I'm happy were family." Lucy smiled so brightly as tears continued to roll.

Star rushed over to her cousin pulling her into a tight hug, "you're the sister I never had. I love you Lucy and I can't wait to get back to Earthland, so I can see you again."

Star then turned to Legba, "I'm ready to go, but I want you to know I'm moving almost all my spirit to Earth."

Legba started to argue, but Star simply put up her hand while shaking her head. "Legba, I need to continue to train. In order to be the force, I have been as your First I need to return the same was when I left. I also know things are out of balance, it's my job to resolve those issues."

"If you do this Star, your body here, may not heal, with so little spirit to help sustain it."

"While I didn't know about the healing issue, I still believe I should return most of my soul back to Dawn on Earth. When I come back to Earthland I will finally be complete, that means my full dragon abilities will kick in, and I will heal in a short amount of time."

"Draco what do you say about all of this?" Legba questioned.

The dragon looked between his master and Legba, with a shake of his head and defeated shrug of his shoulders, "she knows the risks, let her do as she pleases for once."

"Fine mon chéri, I hope you don't regret this choice." Legba reached out his hand and Star walked over allowing the spirit to place her inside of the lacrima.

Layla stepped up pulling Star in for one last embrace, "thank you for everything." She whispered into her ear.

The Celestial mage pulled back placing her hand on the outside surface of the lacrima, effectively closing it once again; she then said a prayer enchanting the prism. The crystal glowed a soft white, then a burst of bright light, and just like that, Star and Draco were gone.

Layla finally allowed her tears to fall. Star had become a second daughter; one she knew she would never see again. Her time with Lucy was quickly coming to an end and for the first time in her life, everything seemed so final.

Legba looked at the mother and child, without asking he knew what the elder Celestial mage was thinking. Soon she too would be another casualty of this battle for the future.

"Layla, thank you for all you have done to fulfil a plan set into motion centuries ago. I know this is not easy but what you have done will help the future. I must return now to the in-between. Au revoir ma chére damn."

Good morning, I wanted to get this posted yesterday but time got away from me. I hope everyone is doing well in this strange new world. One would think I have plenty of time on my hand with the stay-in orders but honestly I've been working even more hours remotely. Go figure... I will try to post once a month but no promises things are just very odd right now. Writing does give me something to escape to...

I want to thank everyone that has favored, following, and left comment on this story. Please if you have questions or comments drop me a note or even a PM.

Special thanks to those who are now following or commented on this adventure: WazzabyBash39, Shaula78, and AshleighLeeann17.

Legba's French to English:

mon cheri = dear one

Merde = shit

Au revoir ma chére damn = good bye my dear lady