-Out Of The Fire And Leo's Nostalgia-
I apologize for rewriting so frequent and suddenly... Due to some plot twists I had to make some adjustments. I own nothing but my ideas. Please let me know what you think about my story.
Song Title - Strike Back
Artist- BACK ON
"Hey Carla, while sticking to the shadows and avoiding unnecessary fights... How much time do we have left?"
A female whispered to her partner, [Exceed: Cat or animal that are hatched from big eggs. Fur colors are random such as blue or maroon. Most can fly/ talk/ plus learn magic.] And [Nakama: Those you choose to become friends with at 1st. And as time passes, they can treat each other as family. Their bond can surpass blood relations, regardless of individual beliefs.]
Both females have been on a personal quest for a while now. Each day they'd walk long distances, treading carefully at a brisk yet cautious pace. Barely taking breaks unless necessary because if you can't tell, time was of the essence which sadly wasn't extendable to many.
The whisper came from Lucy Heartfilia Iyashino Jikan. A Proud Fairy Tail Wizard. And stamped on her right hand, proudly shows her Fairy Tail [Insignia: Mage stamp that shows which guild they proudly reside in and whatever color of their own choosing.] Her insignia is Cherry Blossom Pink.
Facts about Lucy: She has naïve moments, but always wears her heart on her sleeve. Lucy's tough like dragons with her instinctual Lucy Kicks. Smart like the books she reads. Loves unconditionally. Strong and protective like armor. Acts calm and cool like snow or her favorite icy beverage. And above all, warm hearted like a relaxing bath that washes away her problems. Those that know the blonde, acknowledges her as a loving, respectable, and devoted Celestial Spirit Wizard, Summoner, Key Holder, and Mage. Loyal to the Fairy Tail Guild and Team Natsu, regardless of them being insane. She's a true ride or die even in the face of death or any dangers that befall them. She'll constantly try her best for those she loves while putting their needs 1st, because they've earned a place in her heart. Not to mention, they all accepted who she is, including her flaws. But what most don't know is her past, including herself. That will be explained further down the line.
Carla Marvell Heartfilia is now Lucy's Exceed. The snow furred Exceed's previous partner was Wendy Marvell. Wendy was [The Sky Dragon Slayer: Specific children can practice this Lost Magic from Good Dragons.]
Facts About Carla: She is proud to now be Lucy's partner, best friend, and support system. Her guild mark is on her back, also in Cherry Blossom Pink. If she isn't walking, she'll be fluttering with magic wings called [Aera: Wings that sprout on her back.] She use to have a harsher, sassier, and more sarcastic attitude towards those she doesn't know or trust while being Wendy's partner. She's also known to be extremely overprotective almost like a [Helicopter Parent: Someone that hovers and watches your every move.] There are some reasons, Carla acts the way she does towards the blue haired Dragon Slayer.
1: She felt a parental responsibility towards Wendy, since her Dragon mother left and never came back. Leaving them at such a young age.
2: Wendy was younger than most. In fact, she was 12 years old when they both went on their first dangerous mission.
3: Carla was in fact, more cautious.
4: Wendy has a habit of tripping and falling on her face. Even when there was nothing to trip on in the 1st place. So, Carla couldn't help but over worry.
It took a hot minute, but Carla has become nicer due to many adventures and adversities she's faced while being a member of Fairy Tail and Team Natsu. She had crystal clean snow-white fur due to her strict attitude of many things in life including cleanliness. Normally she'd don a tidy top, skirt or shorts, a one piece perhaps, footwear, and matching ribbon tied comfortably around her tail. Her attitude isn't as pin up strict in the present. Though she's retained some of her stern and motherly nature to some degree due to habit, she is willing compromise, become more lenient, and feel empathetic whenever the circumstances call for it.
Now to the present and thanks to the unexpected, which she'd usually deem as, 'The Bad Luck/ Curse Of Fairy Tail.' Currently, both Lucy and Carla have soot scattering their clothes. They try to bathe and change when possible. For the most part, it's highly imperative for them to always stay alert and they knows this fully well. They've become thinner but just above famish.
The only tell-tale sign of their appearance's lye just under their matching outfits. A cloak and hood combo cover their bodies and heads. The only body parts shown, are their hands, most of their face, and feet adorned with simple wooden sandles which are dark blue and green. Whatever they're wearing underneath is for them to know. Simple clasps starting just below their front hood, hidden by the overlapping fabric right down the middle, ties everything together, making this outfit ideal for simple fluid removal and stealth.
The duo has their fair shares of scars littering their bodies. While many would want to keep 'imperfections' under wraps, feel shy, or embarrassed about not having smooth skin and fur anymore, these 2 prefer to wear all their Battle Scars with pride when given the chance. Not the pride that's meant to be boastful but proud to show what they've gone through. And they'd do it all over again for the ones they unconditionally love.
Melancholy flashed through the Exceed's eyes after hearing her partner's question. But that didn't stop her from linking her mind with Lucy's. 'So much has happened since before we've partaken this current challenge, we've eagerly jumped at the chance to plead for... Hasn't it?' Carla thought. She wasn't trying to side stepping the question, it just caught her off guard momentarily.
After the Exceed's question was heard, both females couldn't help but glance at each other momentarily. With small smiles that didn't reach their eyes as they walked. Carla continued thinking, 'Lucy, don't forget you have no need to whisper. And since you're such a great writer/ storyteller, why not enlighten the readers to our journey and I can answer your question after some careful calculations. Plus, if you want, I'll help if possible.?'
The magic Carla was using is called [Mind Link: Personal form of telepathy, her and Lucy used like 2nd nature.]
The Exceed's voice in Lucy's head sounded lighthearted with a bit of teasing. The blonde looked from her peripherals towards her partner sheepishly with a slight blush. But neither were apologetic from Lucy's slip up. By now, both females enjoyed teasing each other to brighten the atmosphere. Not to mention, it has been a long day for them.
'Want to know what happened to us? Our reason behind this journey we've partaken in?' Lucy asked in thought. She went on by saying, 'Well, once this story starts, I hope you won't mind following along in our never-ending adventures. So, Carla and I are going to continue our present treacherous mission. But, if you're curious enough. Why not join us after rewinding through a few of our experiences? It's very personal to us but we'd be honored to welcome you nonetheless.'
Lucy and Carla's demeanor changed. As they smirked before adding in unison Mind Link, 'We appreciate your support! P.s before you ask, yes, we knew we've broken the 4th wall talking to you long ago. Please just accept things the way they are and keep it pushing. Thank you for investing your time now... Let us begin.'
-Flashback-
There was chaos all around the burning city of Crocus. What was once known as 'The Crown Jewel City' in the country of Fiore, is now in ruins. Many cities, in fact are in shambles. Everywhere you look, bits of leftover bricks, glass, tiles, wood, irons, and stones litter the ground of what use to be peoples stores, vehicles, guilds, forests, homes, etc.
Almost everything is forever in flames with no one to extinguish the flash fires. Countless have lost their lives due to the Eclipse Gate not being closed. No good soul could've expected numerous dangerous Dragons to cross through the Eclipse Gate to destroy their beautiful cities. Rampaging Dragons freely took over, after killing whoever stood in their paths trying to stop them.
There were no survivors... Or so was thought.
In a deeply hidden forest somewhere in Fiore that wasn't attacked... Yet. Stood a cave that was huge on the inside while hidden by all the tall trees and foliage. An opening where the ceiling should've been, and if you looked further into the back of the cave, stands a waterfall. Right below the waterfall is a smaller section of connecting water that remains heated like a hot spring from underground. The inhabitants inside the cave are the sole survivors from the Dragon's killing spree. Both Carla and Lucy were saved in the knick of time. But at a price. Both were badly injured and unconscious while lying on the cold stone floor.
The moment both Mage and Exceed made it out of the war zone and into their current hide out, all of Lucy's Celestial Spirits came out of their individual Gates, using their own magic. The Leader of the Zodiac is Leo the Lion. He taught the Celestial Spirits how they could access, maintain, and open their individual Spirit Gates if they're needed. Capricorn the Sea Goat on the other hand, trained with their Key Holder, Lucy. He taught her meditation, tai chi, basically anything that could help expand her magical core reserves. All the while, strengthening her body. Unfortunately, not many Spirits were able to test out their newly found ability before everything took a turn for the worse.
But with the situation as it is, they all took a chance and tried opening their gates in order to help Lucy and her friend. They were all relieved, after opening their Gates successfully. Especially since it meant all their training paid off. The Celestial Spirits decided to huddle into groups. Many decided right now is the perfect opportunity to gather healing supplies and whatever's necessary for the comatose duo. Aries, being the kindhearted and gentle Ram Spirit that she is, decided to use her wool to make a comfortable bed, pillow, and blanket for Lucy and Carla. She didn't know what else to do but figured it was a good start.
Though Leo is their leader, Capricorn noticed the Lion Spirit was in no shape to assist them. So, him being the levelheaded male Spirit, decided to step in for the moment.
Currently, their leader was seen sat cross legged on the floor, glued to Lucy's side. Leo didn't care about the suit or shoes that adorned his body. His Lion ears couldn't help but sag downwards with sadness and in defeat, as he sat beside his [Yes, HIS] Mage while holding unto her hand gently. He used his other hand to gently cup her chin and proceeded to caress her cheek with the pad of his thumb. He then removed his hand from her cheek so he could tuck a stray golden bang out of Lucy's face. His other hand was unwilling to part with Lucy's hand. You'd never know how he felt, while his eyes stare at his Key Holder through his tinted sunglass. Going through his mind, were the pivotal moments he's shared with Lucy before proudly becoming the beautiful blonde maiden's Celestial Spirit.
-Leo/ Loke's Memory Lane-
1st Macao Arc: Loke remembered meeting Lucy on her first day joining Fairy Tail. At first, Loke flirted with her. But after noticing she had Celestial Keys, he ran away. As if, Erza was chasing him, Sword drawn with an aura that promised pain and intended to punish whoever 'killed' her precious coveted Strawberry Cakes. In short, he was deadly terrified after finding out the newest female member was a Celestial Mage. Although everyone in the guild chalked it up to believing Loke runs away from every Celestial Spirit Mage because he had a 'bad break up' with one in the past. He kept acting like a fool, running away, while 'trying' to avoid Lucy. Like she had [Leprosy: An infectious disease that damages people's flesh.]
Leo in the present chuckled internally despite how serious the present situation is. While thinking, 'Lucy's not like other Celestial Wizards. She cares about All of us despite how we act, what we say, or what others say about how she 'should' be treating us...'
2nd Phantom Lord Arc: After Natsu rescued Lucy, also known as Lucy Heartfilia, Daughter of Layla Heartfilia, and descendant of Anna Heartfilia. Everyone realized, Lucy was kidnapped by some people in the Phantom Lord Guild. But she was able to escape, and return to Fairy Tail on Natsu's back. She was in tears since entering the guild. Loke glanced at her, as she tells everyone what she'd just found out. Apparently, her rich father paid off Master Jose Porla and his guild, Phantom Lord to take her back by force! Even if it means going to war with another guild.
'I thought she joined because Fairy Tail was her ideal Guild... Never in a lifetime, had I thought such problems.
Or [skeletons exist in her closet: Someone's dark past they wish to keep hidden from others.] I should've known better since my past wasn't a walk in the park either. She deserved better. But at that time, even I was uncapable of giving her much assistance.' Leo thought ruefully.
3rd Phantom Lord Arc: Loke tried his best to fight [Gajeel Redfox: One of the members in the Elemental 4 at Phantom Lord.] Gajeel's task was kidnapping Lucy the 2nd time. Unfortunately, Loke was defeated and became trapped by someone's magic in Gajeel's guild. That was the moment, Loke realized he wasn't strong enough anymore.
'I remembered how I kept blaming myself for my weakened and haunted past. It was all thanks to Lucy that I realized how much I wanted to become stronger. For my guild and for the girl that changed my life. Because no Celestial Spirit Mage stood up for me or was faithfully by my side like Lucy.' Leo thought with mixed feelings.
4th Phantom Lord Arc: Though it was indirect, Loke searched and retrieved Lucy's missing Celestial Spirit Keys. She dropped them trying to defend herself unsuccessfully after [Juvia Lockser:Another member of the Elemental 4.] She used a magic called [Water Lock: Sphere of water traps whoever's inside, causing them to become unconscious due to lack of oxygen.] And that's how Juvia was able to kidnap Lucy the 1st time. After Fairy Tail triumphed against Phantom Lord's attack, Loke looked for hours. Trying to find the blonde's missing Celestial Keys.
'I wished so severely back then, to join in protecting Lucy. Even if it was from afar. Regardless of being banned from the Celestial World... My wanting to stay by her side surprised and confused me at first. Considering how I felt about Celestial Mages. Though something inside of me knew if she was my Key Holder, I'd never fear being mistreated again. Nor fear for any Celestial Spirits that came into her kind hands. I dared to dream, but my hopes dwindled to a mere 20% chance of surviving back then. I was about to disappear from the world. I thought my future was written in stone... But thanks to Lucy, I have a reason to live.' Leo returned from his memory. While looking at Lucy with adoration soley reserved for her.
5th Loke Arc: Loke rescued Lucy from 2 perverted male Mages, who were notorious for approaching and abducting female tourist. Unfortunately, she was at the wrong place, at the wrong time, and their next victim.
'I remembered how great it felt, beating the living heck out of those 2 punks! Lucy's not just some random conquest... She's our guild mate! And someone I hoped unintentionally, would be the one to save me!' I thought proudly, an internal smile that didn't reach my face.
6th Loke Arc: As thank you for finding her Celestial Spirit Keys and defeating those perverted males. Lucy repaid Loke's kindness, by treated him out to a meal and drink at a local bar. Though Loke was impolite and refused to answer any questions she asked, the blonde expressed her gratitude before trying to walk away.
'Before Lucy could leave, I remember feeling desperate as I grabbed hold of her wrist gently. I saw how shocked she looked in the process of pulling her in for a hug. I clung to her, trembling in fear. But I'm sure all I did was make her worried sick. I didn't want her to worry about me. She barely knew a thing about me, and it was my fault for being a coward. All I did back then was run away while trying to distract myself. Because I couldn't face the guilt, nor my past. Besides, I thought I was done for. So, she had no idea how relieved I felt, to opening myself up to her, while saying "Lucy, the truth is I don't have that long to live." I knew she believed me. But I chickened out at the very last second. I brushed off my previous comment to save face, claiming what I said was 'Just A Joke' while laughing. It was a stupid decision on my behalf... I 200% deserved that harsh slap across my face. At that moment, I didn't care if my sunglass flew off my face, courtesy of Lucy. After seeing her painfully storm away, I knew it was no one's fault but my own. Unfortunately, I still haven't gotten the chance to apologize for that moment... At least, not until she wakes up.' Leo thought regretfully.
7th Loke Arc: Loke shared his extra unopened flavored milk with Lucy. Drinking alongside the blonde after she exited from soaking in a public bath house the next night. They both stood outside, appreciating each other's company while enjoying their beverage. Suddenly, they spot a shooting star pass and Lucy stated, "A shooting star!" Lucy chuckled sweetly and continued saying. "It sounds silly, but I always wondered where those fallen stars end up." Loke hinted, "I kinda feel sorry for them. Just think, once they fall from the sky, they can never return Heaven. Doesn't that seem sad?" Lucy stared blankly for a moment. Then confronted him about using another pick up line. She wasn't pleased with how he kept acting. Believing he would remain a player and flirt.
'I remembered feeling glad, seeing Lucy stand beside me that night. Even though my lifespan was drawing to its final moments. And despite how I was acting previously. It was then, I realized she has a strong/ caring/ and forgiving soul. It's just too bad... She only got to see the side of me I projected to the world. A guy that's just a flirt and nothing more. All because that façade, was who I could willingly show back then.' Loke thought full of remorse.
8th Loke Arc: Lucy was the only one to find Loke after he went missing. Surprising him in the process while he stood at his late Key Holder's grave. The blonde shell shocked him yet again after she found out he was the Celestial Spirit Key Leo The Lion. Also known as leader of the Zodiacs. Loke then proceeded to tell Lucy he was banned with the crimes of killing his previous Key Holder named [Karen Lilica:A cruel, manipulative, and shameful Celestial Wizard. In my opinion, it's an understatement... Her name defines her perfectly. Even though she was "famous" among Celestial Wizards and males in the Blue Pegasus Guild. Only the Celestial Spirits she "owned" knew how Karen truly behaved behind closed doors. In short, she abused her Celestial Spirits heartlessly. Treating them as slaves and tools, especially poor Aries.]
Loke finally told Lucy his complete past. And the experience he faced while in the hands of Karen... Lucy was mortified, shock, and appalled about everything he told her. [Fun Fact: Karen's Spirit was present while Loke explained about his past to Lucy.] Loke was stunned at 1st after hearing Lucy state, "It's Not Okay!"
"I Can't Just Sit Here While My Friend Disappears Right Before My Eyes!"
"Karen's Death ISN'T Your Fault!"
"You Didn't Kill Her!"
"I'm Going To Find A Way To Send You Back To The Celestial World!"
Loke smiled internally. 'At times, I can still hear Lucy's voice, ring with innocent conviction. Echoing throughout my being as I revisit moments with the blonde bomb shell. Back then, a part of me believed I didn't kill Karen... But after being told I was banned for my Key Holder's death, I started doubting myself till blame all but consumed me for 3 long years down in Earthland. Lucy even almost assimilated with me in fact, and she didn't mind.'
Leo paused mid thought. His heart was beating strongly and fast. So, he decided to take a silent inhale of breath through the nose. Then exhaled from his mouth, before he started [hyperventilating:Fast, uncontrollable breathing from fright, exhaustion, or excitement.] Only after calming down, did Leo return to his memories once again. "Stop It, You're Going To Use Up All Of Your Magical Energy, I'm Not Worth It!" Loke stated, desperate and scared. He couldn't live with anymore guilt. Especially if it means, almost dooming another Celestial Spirit Mage.
The 2nd time Loke was in shock, was after hearing her yell,
"WHATEVER IT TAKES, I'M GOING TO SAVE YOU LOKE!"
"I WON'T STOP TILL THE GATE'S OPEN!"
"I WON'T LET YOU DIE!"
"WHAT'S THE POINT OF HAVING MAGIC POWER, IF YOU CAN'T USE IT TO SAVE THE PEOPLE YOU CARE ABOUT!? "
"YOU DIDN'T KILL HER! WHOEVER DECIDED YOU WERE RESPONSIBE NEEDS TO KNOW THAT THEY WERE WRONG!"
If it wasn't for the fact that the Celestial blonde would've gotten hurt, Loke would've felt grateful for someone standing up for him. 'I honestly thought for a moment, Lucy's shout was loud enough to pierce through Celestial Heaven itself. And I wasn't disappointed.' Leo internally chuckled at the memory.
'Because that's when time stopped around Lucy and I. Even the huge and loud waterfall behind Karen's grave paused in respect as the Celestial Spirit King appeared before us which He's Never done for anyone that I know of before. After the Celestial Spirit King explained to Lucy I the committed the crime of killing Karen, and therefore banished for all eternity from the Celestial World. I thought she'd give up, but that wasn't the case. She never wavered and talked... No, yelled back to The Celestial Spirit King.'
That was Loke's 3rd time being surprised by the beautiful Celestial Mage laying before him. Leo blushed while looking at his Key Holder. The Lion knew Lucy was different since her presence was brought to his attention. Since then, everything fell into place.
4th time being astounded by Lucy was when Loke stated, "I'm not looking for forgiveness! I Want To Disappear And Finally Be Free From This Guilt!" She was shaking in anger, after hearing the Lion Spirit shout those words. And so, she screamed back with tremendous magic pouring around her, "I WON'T LET YOU!" Even the Celestial Spirit King noticed a difference in her.
She continued by yelling, "YOU DISAPPEARING ISN'T GONNA BRING KAREN BACK TO LIFE, ALL IT'S GONNA DO IS CREATE MORE SADDNESS!"
"YOU DID NOTHING WRONG!"
"BECAUSE IT CAN'T BE A CRIME TO PROTECT THE PEOPLE YOU CARE ABOUT!"
And that's when Lucy summoned all her Celestial Friends in 1 go... That's unheard of in the Celestial community. But it's also the reason she's different from any Celestial Mage. Loke now had tears in his eyes, moved by the blonde's statement. She lastly screamed "WHAT ABOUT ALL OF YOUR FRIENDS, YOU'RE JUST GOING TO LEAVE THEM!?"
"IF YOU WERE TO DIE, YOU'D LEAVE ME AND ARIES!"
"AND EVERYONE ELSE HERE BEHIND!"
"THINK ABOUT US AND HOW MISERABLE WE WOULD BE WITHOUT YOU!"
Leo may be strong and patient as a leader of the Celestial Spirits. But the Lion never came across a Key Holder, that was more willing to risk everything for him before. She was more than he could have asked for. His eyes grew misty with that knowledge.
'Her strong soul, filled with justice is unrivaled! Lucy's passionate words made The Celestial King reevaluate my situation.' Loke couldn't believe the Celestial Spirit King said, "Hearing you speak so highly of my old friend, has led me to think maybe it is not his actions, but the law itself that should be in questioned. Leo was forced to commit his crime to protect Aries. And the Human girl is willing to risk her life to save Leo. I am so moved by your bonds of loyalty I shall make an exception in this case. Leo The Lion, you are here by granted return passage to Celestial World." Loke smiled at the memory, he honestly wouldn't have changed a thing even if asked to. And so, Loke was re-welcomed and cleared of his crime. His 5th time feeling amazed at Lucy.
Finally, Loke's 6th moment, as he thought, 'Though I'm 110% thankful for being welcomed back to the Celestial Realm, I was still blaming myself. I've wanted to make amends for my past grievances, since my future isn't in question anymore.' Loke felt relieved and stupefied as the Celestial King said, "You are exonerated. Be grateful to the guidance of the stars. If you insist on atoning for your actions in the past, then I hereby order you to live your life on the service of your friend, the Human girl. You are lucky to have found such a loyal friend. I suggest you protect her with your life, just as she fought to save yours."
Loke looked tearily and shell shocked as the Celestial Spirit King returned to the Celestial World. At that moment, everything around Lucy and Loke returned to normal, as the Lion allowed his tears of relief to instantly overflow. He finally got his wish to stay by Lucy's side for the rest of her life. All the while feeling thankful to finally be pardoned. Honestly, that was the Lion's deepest wish. Regardless of any past guilt. He knew I'd never be the same... Especially after falling into Karen's clutches. That is until he thought, 'But even with the internal scars I bare, I'm now at peace and in better hands. I'm thankful for my journey. Knowing it didn't end in vain but continues with a loving Celestial Key Holder I'm proud to stand up for and next to. Guess I really was meant to be a Fairy Tail Celestial Spirit Mage.' Leo thought with finality.
Although Leo's nostalgia came to a close, his mind continued to wander. By that time, most of the female Spirits already started to work in unison. Gathering whatever's necessary to heal the injured. The only female that remained in stillness is no other than Lucy's first friend and Celestial Spirit, Aquarius. No one questioned the blue haired Mermaid's lack of action. Not even her boyfriend Scorpio... And since almost everyone knew of her Tsunami temper, they decided to give her some space. A few Celestial Spirits knew of the odd and dominating relationship Aquarius shared with Lucy, causing them to sweat drop in worry for their Key Holder. Not to mention, they also feared being on the receiving end of any misplaced anger.