The chapter many of you have been waiting for. You guys deserve the fluff after enduring all that angst. But after this, comes MORE angst! :D
Reviews are very much appreciated, especially for this chapter.
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Chapter 26: Freedom
He felt nothing when he returned to Magnolia, now an ex-councillor. The decision was easy for him, since his other option was to sever ties with Fairy Tail. He could feel Belno and Michello's eyes' trained on him as he exited the Magic Council, as if knowing what stopped him from devoting his time to the Magic Council.
Erza.
He found her at the kitchen counter, with the child in the basket, expectant when he entered his penthouse. She seemed overjoyed by simply looking at the child.
"Jellal," she greeted quietly. "How was work?"
His word choice was very specific, "Different."
She caught onto his hushed and observant demeanour, meaning there was more to it than the eye. "Oh? That's a new answer. I'd be happy to hear all about it on our way to Zentopia."
Jellal averted his gaze to the baby, who was sound asleep. "I'd rather not talk about it right now. He's our priority, and I want to make sure we can reach the mother with no interference or suspicions."
Especially from the prying eyes of anyone like Cardinal Lapointe.
"Right, let's not get ahead of ourselves."
She held the basket this time, knowing their path would be among people, and attracting attention was the last thing they wanted to do. Jellal would only use his former position to gain permission from the church to see Michelle. After that, he was sure the tabloids would release news of his decision after today.
"Erza, remember that Zentopia is a friend to no one. They will imprison us if we act against them on their grounds."
"I know. Their doctrine is very influential in Fiore, I would expect nothing else. I've heard they also have their own army, and that neither the kingdom nor Magic Council govern them."
"Correct, and now that I think about it, Cardinal Lapointe seems suspicious. His traces are reminiscent of Zero."
"The leader of the Seis?" Erza asked.
"Yes. I'm not sure if they're linked, but he disappeared before our mission with the alliances. I'm not sure if he's hiding in the church, or if he's missing in action, but either way, that place is not safe for us."
The mages walked side-by-side at the Magnolia Train Station, trying to navigate through the swarming crowds. Jellal concealed himself with a cloak and stepped into the train, finding an abandoned compartment. He slid the doors shut for the private sectors once Erza came inside, and sighed in relief.
"If the Magic Council has no influence on them, as you say, then how can you guarantee they'll let you see Michelle?"
"The Magic Council was involved in her case to an extent, and technically, it's not officially closed. In fact, the government has many court hearings to do for the trial."
Erza clenched her hands into the fabric of her skirt. "But something tells me this is wrong. She threw him off that bridge, intending to kill him. So why are we returning him to such a mother? Isn't his life going to be more miserable?"
It's the dream we had, isn't it? he wanted to say. She knew as well as he had what they were referring to. Yet, the words wouldn't escape, because Jellal feared for that reality.
"Erza, something tells me she did that to spite her husband."
"But even if she wanted to exact her revenge against him, couldn't she have done it without killing him off? That seems so horrific, Jellal."
"Let's...hear her out. In that courtroom, Jerome could not convince me she was a woman who wanted her child dead."
Neither of them knew of a more viable solution. Even if they reunited mother and son, what if she rejected him and left him to Jellal and Erza?
Would Jellal even accept him, seeing how busy he is? Erza swallowed hard, an action that went noticed by her comrade, yet he said nothing to further her intrusive thoughts. One look at her and he could sense the distress consuming her.
"I'll figure something out, Erza. Please, do not worry about his fate."
"You say that as if you aren't busy, Jellal. I didn't mean for any of this to happen. So I'm more than willing to raise him if...that woman refuses to take him."
Jellal knew he should have said something about what went on in the Magic Council.
Still, he made no comment about it.
Barely anyone got off the station near Zentopia, for it the remains were many abandoned areas. Jellal heard from the Magic Council that corpses were used to drive off people in forbidden areas that were church property.
"I can see why anyone hasn't visited such an unfamiliar spectacle." Erza commented.
The train ride spanned hours, and the child hadn't woken up. Jellal noticed the lack of supplies for the little one.
Jellal turned to her. "Did you come prepared?"
"I stored all his supplies in my space dimension for our convenience."
The confirmation relieved him, especially since they would need to keep him as quiet as possible throughout their journey to the church. Zentopia's concept itself was something righteous. Lately, however, the cardinals had appeared conspicuous in their plots, as though they abused their ability to escape law and order.
Only their law governed these grounds in Fiore.
"Do you know where to go?"
Jellal nodded. "I've been here once when I was first appointed as a councilman. We have many people to pass by, so be on your guard."
Erza's eyes narrowed to the entrance, leading to the beginning of the castle-like grounds of Zentopia. They gracefully ascended the stairs as though they belonged among the people. Jellal carried himself with an air of royalty that came almost naturally. Erza watched as he reasoned with the guard, and with a mere gesture to his medallion attesting his status as one of the Wizard Saints, Jellal was granted entry.
Erza quickly tailed behind him. "I didn't know they valued your status as a Wizard Saint so much."
"Well, I had a ceremony here to commemorate my status. Apparently, Zentopia pays great mind to Wizard Saints. We're supposed to be the embodiment of atonement by using our powers for the greater good of Ishgar, as it is a part of their creed. That is why Jose lost his title when he initiated the war with Fairy Tail."
"He should have never been around to begin with." Erza seethed as she imagined finding Jellal bleeding to death and Jose's delight in watching their suffering.
"Jose wasn't always so cruel," Jellal informed, although he wasn't keen on bringing out the best in such a heinous man. "His hatred stemmed from Makarov's boasting during the guild master conventions. His ancestor was a member of a guild that took from the people, and so the Fairy Tail rivalry began from there."
"That doesn't excuse everything he did to make you suffer."
"He made you suffer too, Erza. Yet, you still pitied him, didn't you?"
Jellal made it sound like it was easy to figure Erza out.
"...I'm just worried that he'll leave prison, becoming more spiteful, and actively seeking revenge against many people. I doubt his time served will make him a better person."
"I could only wish to have a heart of gold like you. The world would be a better place if everyone learned empathy."
"You do, Jellal. Everything you do is for another person's sake. This much I can promise you Jellal; your actions will always stem from your selflessness."
She knew. Erza had to know what he had done today for her to make such a conclusion. But her eyes didn't hold that information. She looked up at him so innocently.
Jellal paused, noticing the silence that followed. The Archbishop confronted him shortly when the duo halted. The old man offered a smile.
"My old friend, Master Jellal. It's been three years since I've last seen you."
"Archbishop. The pleasure is mine." He greeted, extending his hand out to shake the church representative's hand.
Jellal pulled Erza closer. "This is my close comrade, Erza. She and I offer our greatest blessings to you."
"A radiant thing, indeed. Welcome, Miss Erza. What can I do for the both of you today?"
It had to be the worst time to wail as the child woke up, screaming its lungs bloody. Erza requipped the formula milk and quickly held it to the baby's mouth, watching it suckle fiercely.
"I rarely see young parents these days. Have you come to baptize your child?"
It made sense that the Archbishop was out of the loop about Jellal, and nobody could blame him for it. Erza and Jellal stared at each other knowingly, and knew how to use his obliviousness to their advantage. Jellal clarified, "Actually, we came here to visit the rehabilitation centre. A close family member of ours resides there."
"Ah yes, of course. I can guide you to them right away. What is their name?"
"Michelle Lobster."
The Archbishop hummed in deep thought. "Oh dear, yes, that troubled child. I would advise you to make the child scarce. I'm sure you've heard that the poor girl's son passed away recently."
"We heard," Erza disconsolately replied. "Fret not, the child shall remain hidden from her view."
"I appreciate your consideration for her. We have many traumatized children in our rehabilitation centres. Part of our job to help in leading them to the path of God and atonement is to assist them."
Although the Archbishop meant good, Jellal could make out the sharp eyes of the midwives and nuns serving Zentopia as they passed the halls, particularly when Erza continued feeding the baby. She instinctively held the basket closer to her. The Archbishop may have been kind enough to overlook the child, but not the others who resided in these walls.
The Archbishop rapped on the door with his knuckles. "Michelle, dear, it's the Archbishop. You have some visitors. Can I send them in?"
They could hear rustling and shifting from behind the doors until she was right next to the wooden material. "It's not Jerome...or the maids, is it?"
"No, they're a couple who claim to have a close relationship with you. I did not know you were related to one of the Wizard Saints. Quite impressive."
The Archbishop knew of Jellal's nature and had faith they wouldn't cause her to throw a tantrum.
One nun clicked her tongue upon arriving at the cell, partly thankful for an authority's presence. She bowed gracefully, "Archbishop, this woman hasn't eaten since she arrived."
The tray remained in her hands, to which Jellal took it from her. The nun's grip on the tray loosened immediately. "We will make certain that she eats."
Now whether or not Michelle gave permission, the Archbishop was content with Jellal and Erza's understanding towards her. "Michelle, I'm sending them in."
No protests came from the woman as the door creaked open slowly. Jellal was quick to shut it to prevent further commotion. The room wasn't spacious and reminded them more of prison than a hospitable hotel.
Michelle whipped her head to confront Jellal first, then found the words stuck in her throat. "You are...that councilman."
"Please do not fret, we mean you no harm." Erza whispered, approaching the woman with the basket. "We came because we found...your child."
She seemed so terrified upon the revelation, eyes widening when she met the gaze of her baby boy. "My son is alive..."
Erza slowly offered her the basket, preparing to back away in case she acted rashly.
"Does my husband know he's alive?"
That probably has been her biggest fear since she found out about her child.
"No, he does not. And based on your implied history, we plan to keep it a secret."
Michelle's eyes watered as she took her son in her arms and sobbed quietly. "My little child...I'm so sorry."
Neither knew who her apology was directed towards. The lone woman continued, "I cannot keep him with me when I'm unwell myself. I really want to, but...he'll come after me."
The baby seemed so happy. The gurgling and comfort of his mother's embrace told Jellal and Erza plentiful.
"We don't want to give him back to your husband, either. That's why you must be the one to take him." Erza reasoned, trying to give this boy a home, a proper life.
It wouldn't work, and she knew it.
"Jerome will know if the child is with me. He has connections everywhere. Please, I beg of you, keep this child away from him and change his identity. He will be neither Jerome nor my child. Let him be another's, such as yourselves. Both of you tried doing the best for him. He deserves a life where his guardians can be there.
"Please, will you adopt him for me?"
Erza and Jellal could only think of the dream, and how they were destined to be with this child either way. The scarlet-haired mage did not mind, but her concerns lay within Jellal, who was simply too busy for the responsibility.
"I will become his guardian and hide his identity." Jellal vowed, smiling as the child cooed in his biological mother's lap.
Erza was surprised at his sudden declaration, wondering how an inexperienced man like him could take on such a taxing job. "I, too, will take care of him alongside Jellal. We won't let Jerome take him away."
"Promise me you won't let Jerome harm my little boy. Even if he may be arrested, I fear he may exact revenge on my only child. For that reason alone, I cannot stay by his side."
She cried even harder as she contemplated the reality of leaving her child in a world with many predators. Her tears were from the mishaps in her decision to throw her child off the bridge. But she knew that Jellal and Erza would keep him safe, because they sensed the greatest threat of the child.
Jerome.
Erza smiled, "Does he have a name?"
Michelle gasped, surprised that nobody had yet given him a name. If things hadn't been the way they were that night, then Jerome would have named his son almost immediately.
"Eugene," she concluded, a name of her choice. "He was born noble, and so that trait will live on within his name, and his guardians."
Jellal stared at the child and found warmth within the name associated with him.
A child of nobility, for a guild of misfits. Though, everyone considered the two S-Class mages to be nothing short of noble.
Jellal set the food tray beside Michelle, advising her to eat, and live on knowing that her child was in safe hands.
Eugene fell asleep, and the responsibility of him only now dawned upon Jellal and Erza.
"Erza, we should get going." Jellal ushered, knowing they overstayed their welcome. Michelle placed Eugene in the basket and gave him a small peck on the forehead, completely content with her request.
"Thank you both for taking on such a responsibility." Michelle earnestly felt joy for the first time in a while. "I'll never forget your heroic deed."
Erza knew that whatever came with this child would be a blessing, and so did Jellal.
At least Jellal could leave, certain that Lapointe's disappearance provided stability in Zentopia.
Just like Jellal could sense her intrusive thoughts, Erza figured him out easily.
His uneasiness wasn't from the adoption of Eugene, but something prior to it.
So she concluded it involved the Magic Council.
She gently inquired, "Jellal, why did you say you'd take responsibility for Eugene? You're still in the Magic Council, and you don't have to feel obligated to do anything. After all, I brought this upon myself."
Such hesitance in his response could not be brushed off. Jellal was confident, unwavering in his truth. "Sometimes, circumstances change."
She wasn't entirely convinced and pressed on.
"Jellal...I wish you would tell me everything, especially since that conversation in Edolas. I want answers to the things left unsaid."
They were in the empty streets of Magnolia, and they were certain that Eugene was fast asleep for the next few hours after taking care of his needs on the train.
All that remained was them.
She stopped, and he did too, noticing the lack of footsteps following him. They were metres apart, staring at each other longingly, as though they couldn't grasp one another.
There it was, a gentleness the guild hardly witnessed. She smiled softly. "I want to know what's troubling you, Jellal. You've done so much for everyone, yet very little for yourself. You give, and don't take."
His coat swayed in the wind that followed. He stood elegantly, and simply said, "That's not true, Erza."
She let out a huff of air at his humbleness.
Erza stepped closer, "You gave everyone the courage to escape the Tower of Heaven. Had your words not enlightened me, had we not rebelled against the cult, we might have already been dead."
He only thought back to the countless nights they were tortured in the Tower of Heaven, dreaming of escape. Nights when Erza rambled on about how she would fly on a broom when she became a wizard.
Now, she surpassed what Rob had expected from her, but he couldn't live to see his guild again.
"Erza, have you truly ever felt free after the Tower of Heaven?"
She joggled her head, "Never. It's an unrelenting shackle, bound to me for life. But Jellal, that place doesn't define our worth. We must live on with our trauma than be oblivious to it."
He would rather live on with his painful memories than forget.
"Have the others moved on, either? They're still secluded, and remain close to one another."
Erza had no answer, knowing the other children from the Tower of Heaven were reserved in front of the guild.
Jellal continued, "How could I be anyone's saviour, when our minds are sunk within the abyss of torture and pain? I didn't save anyone. I only tried to shunt the memories away. That day, when we escaped, you came after me despite the guards surrounding me. I wouldn't have blamed you if you escaped without me."
She shuddered and felt a rebellious tear slide down her cheek. "How could you say that after everything we've gone through together, Jellal? I saved you because you were our friend, our leader."
The Wizard Saint's smile was reassuring, and Erza wanted to sink into his warmth.
His voice was whisper, yet it was as though the words boomed into her ears. "It's because you loved me, right?"
With how obvious she was about her crush on Jellal, she shouldn't have expected his obliviousness. Erza's eyes went wide as she stared at him, teary-eyed. "Everyone loved you, Jellal, because you gave us hope. Even now, your purpose in learning magic was to protect us, wasn't it? You couldn't bear seeing us suffer, so you learned to fight, even though you hate violence.
"...that's why you left the Magic Council."
Jellal froze, waiting for her to say more. Her tears dried up, and she would've laughed at his reaction had it not been so serious.
"How did you find out?"
"Your commitment to Eugene, your comment about work, the circumstance change you spoke of—all led to that conclusion. Were you forced to leave because of the guild?"
He swallowed, "Not exactly—it rarely factored in my choice. But Erza, I don't regret the decision at all. I gained something much greater in turn."
She watched as he approached her, and she could only think of how handsome he was in the darkness. "In truth, the Magic Council confined me, and thus, I was never free to do as I pleased. Erza, I want you to know that I've dreamed of nights being beside you, but I was afraid.
"Jose kept you captive, and after the war, I couldn't stop imagining similar scenarios, all because I was part of the Magic Council. But now that I've left, I won't have to see anyone in the guild suffer because of me."
Erza's eyes held a cloud of misery at his words. "You sacrificed your position for the sake of the guild? Your own pride was disregarded for the sake of foolish people?"
She sounded upset by it, but then she confronted him with a sharp inhale. "Oh Jellal, why are you so selfless? You should've done what was best for you."
"This is my happiness, Erza, with you. I still imagine the life we could have been living had I not joined the Magic Council. I have many regrets, but leaving the council will be the last of them."
Erza felt a tear graze down her cheek. Jellal reached out and delicately wiped it away. "I was selfish enough to want you, despite knowing how important the Magic Council was to you. But now I feel guilt because you abandoned everything for the guild."
"Erza, don't blame yourself. Continuing on with the Magic Council would mean I would have to stay away from the guild, and especially from you."
"Everything you did to this point was for the safety of those around you. I cannot fault a man for such justice, such nobility. Jellal, you are the embodiment of the guild for that reason alone." Erza stepped closer, inches away from his face. "Your sacrifices, your pain—I want to know it all. I love you."
Jellal took a deep breath, fingers reaching into his pocket for the ring. He presented the small box in front of her, flickering it open. She could only be entranced by his eyes in that very moment as he spoke. "Then will you love me once more? This time, forever"
She swallowed hard, just as knowledgeable about traditions as he was. "Is this...a promise ring?"
"It was, but you can make it whatever you want."
Erza studied it for a moment. "What if I asked you to marry me? We could skip the previous formalities and be engaged right now."
Stunned for a moment, Jellal brought her hand to his mouth and kissed it lightly, and her blush told him everything.
"We've always defied the concept of normalcy. I would be honoured to be your future spouse."
He bent down on one knee traditionally. "Then, will you do me the honour of being my wife, Erza Scarlet?"
Erza knelt down to face him and smiled contentedly. "Yes, Jellal Fernandes. I want to be with you in life and death."
It had been the first time she said his full name. The feeling was nostalgic.
The world would call them a strange pair, but a match indeed worthy of praise. When Jellal slipped the ring onto her finger, it glowed brilliantly.
"This ring has magic, and binds the both of us through it. I'll be able to sense your feelings."
Erza studied the ring wondrously, admiring the way it fit perfectly on her finger. "What magic does this ring possess?"
Jellal found the question rather intriguing. "A magic from love, or so that's what I'm told."
"It's beautiful. Thank you, Jellal."
"I should be the one thanking you, Erza. I'm finally free."
"Freedom...you never truly found it after we escaped?"
His sad smile gave away the answer. "No."
She might never understand the extent of his freedom without the Magic Council, but Erza knew of his lingering feelings towards the place he spent studying magic to his heart's content. That place allowed him to grow and expand in his interest in magic.
"Still, you must have regretted your decision, Jellal. Leaving everything behind after almost becoming Chairman of the Magic Council must have left you empty."
"Not when I gained the most beautiful woman in turn," he countered. He seemed truly happy, and Erza wanted to see him smile forever. Tears sprung into her eyes again just watching Jellal.
Erza swiped at her eyes. "I'm crying, aren't I? How foolish of me, I should be rejoicing."
Jellal knew her tears had been of joy. Nothing about this was grievous, especially as he whispered against her lips, "Your tears are nothing to be ashamed of."
She inched closer to close the distance, clutching his backside as he tangled his fingers into her hair, his other hand spanning her cheek to her chin. Their lips met slowly, and in that moment, they focused on the sensation.
Her lashes were damp were tears. Jellal whispered against her, "I'll protect you from harm's way. This is my promise to you, as your fiancé."
She cupped his cheek, sighing against him, wanting to stay like this forever. "Let me protect you, as well. I want to know of all your pain, so promise me you won't hide your troubles."
His hands went to her backside, pulling her as close as possible. "I can't promise you that, Erza. There are things I know that I wish I could forget."
"I understand."
There was no Magic Council binding him, apart from Face. But even so, he wouldn't let anyone know of it, not even Erza.
Humans carried burdens in different forms, and this seal would be his.
"I've waited too long for this," he breathed, thinking about all the times he hesitated to present the ring to her. He embraced her like it would be their last moments together. Jellal didn't want to let her go.
The night became their keeper, and the moon, their witness.
"I think we should introduce the guild to Eugene," Jellal suggested as they pulled away, knowing that he would eventually get roped into the guild. "Everyone can raise him, so that he has more people to rely on in the future."
"That's fair. And what about our...engagement? I think it'd be best for us to keep quiet about it, since you are renowned."
Erza thought about the housemaid at the Lobster Plantation who couldn't stop staring at Jellal. There might as well have been many people like her out there, infatuated by him.
"No, I'm alright with telling everyone," he said, surprising her. "My life doesn't have to continue in secrecy. I'm proud to call you mine, Erza."
And so Erza wouldn't have to hide the fact that she snagged such a wanted man. He was hers.
"The only person I'm thinking about that will take the news harshly is Simon." Erza said, unsure of what he would do in response. Her hands slid to his forearms, meeting his gaze.
"He won't say anything, Erza. Simon has accepted your feelings, and respects your decision. Maybe he'll be upset, which is valid, but nothing else. His consideration is why I refuse to call myself selfless. I took you for my own, and that will never be an act of selflessness."
"That may be, but I never loved him. I remember him asking me if I liked you...right before he lost his eye. My answer wasn't obvious, but I think he knew."
"This is the first I'm hearing of this."
"If you think it will be alright, then I won't ponder it any longer."
Jellal could only call himself selfish for wanting Erza, knowing Simon loved her as well. However, he didn't regret his decision, and wondered if that was a bad thing.
He would never know, and neither would Erza. In the end, they both found happiness after years of masquerading their feelings.
That night, they conversed about many things, while taking care of Eugene, while lying in Jellal's bed and staring at the ceiling, trying to fall asleep, as two people who were engaged. Everything felt so normal now that they could talk freely. Erza asked a lot about the Magic Council, and he gave his answers honestly, leaving out the niceties.
She seemed concerned just by hearing about the troubling people surrounding him. Erza learned the moral behind his stories, that not everyone was to be trusted.
He did mention on occasion that it was her weakness, and she accepted the words.
They laced their fingers together and smiled at one another.
Erza never flew on a broom as a mage like she hoped for back at the Tower of Heaven, but she didn't need one to soar in the sky.
She also didn't need her armour anymore, as she finally found comfort in her confidant.
"I love you," Jellal uttered, using his fingers to draw patterns on her palm.
Neither of them tossed that phrase around, which was why it held so much meaning.
Erza replied contentedly, "And I, you."
"Well, what do we have here? Two brats with a child in hand." Makarov greeted as they entered the guildhall early in the morning. Mirajane had been preparing breakfast for the regulars at the bar. "Explain yourselves."
Neither of them was expected to be greeted as such. In fact, they both expected that those in the guildhall would go crazy over the child. It was bound to happen sooner or later.
"Makarov, this is the child that supposedly died in the Lobster Plantation." Jellal started with that, then went into detail on how he and Erza became his guardian.
Makarov seemed more stunned than when he heard about Edolas. Though, knowing Erza, the tale shouldn't have come as a surprise.
"So currently, Jerome is under house arrest while Michelle is in Zentopia?"
"That's correct, which is why Michelle assumed we would be able to raise this child as ours." Erza answered, but knew Makarov had caught onto something unspoken within their explanation.
"I see, but wouldn't being a councillor and raising a child prove to be problematic? After all, you're putting the little one's life at risk. I believe you shared that sentiment a while back."
Jellal was about to answer until Makarov handed the Wizard Saint some mail.
Two letters from the Magic Council.
"Jellal, let's talk more in my office."
Erza's face fell, predicting that Makarov had received word about Jellal's decision. "Master, none of this is Jellal's fault."
Jellal placed a hand on Erza's shoulder. "It's alright, I'll clear everything up."
She nodded ever so slightly, waiting until he and Makarov shut the door to the office on the second floor before exhaling.
Mirajane ushered her to have a seat on the bar stool, smiling. "So, when did he propose to you?"
"You have an awfully sharp eye," Erza commented blearily.
"I can't help but be curious. That's quite an expensive ring you've got on your finger."
"Jellal meant for this to be originally a promise ring, but I suggested we get engaged instead." Mirajane's hum nerved Erza slightly. "Is that...odd?"
"Not for the both of you, no. Given your past, I wouldn't be surprised if you both were married by now. Well, congratulations are in order. We should plan an engagement party. Or do you want to keep this a secret?"
"Jellal said he didn't mind, surprisingly."
"That is unusual. He is rather famous, so it would attract the paparazzi. Well, you also are renowned, too."
Erza sank her head into her hands, "He left the Magic Council."
"Ah, explains why he and Master are speaking. But chin up, I'm sure when he finds out about your engagement, Master won't mind at all."
"Jellal is a mystery at times," Erza mouthed, grazing her finger delicately across the diamond ring.
"That I can't deny."
Makarov took a seat at his desk, unorganized and with papers surrounding the room. He weakly pointed at the letters, "Explain yourself."
Was now really a good time to talk about it? Jellal could sense the irritation in Makarov's voice.
"I was violating two terms in the Magic Council's newly established agreement. Therefore, I left the Magic Council."
Makarov's hands clasped and unclasped just as easily.
"That's not it, is it? They must have given you a choice between staying and leaving the guild. Gran Doma wasn't fond of you because of your affiliation with Fairy Tail, but he admired your character. I...would have rather you'd acted in your best interest."
"Even if I left the guild, I could never contact you about the Magic Council. A Geass Scroll was used to seal the agreement, and part of the pact included not giving information to third parties."
Makarov rubbed his temples. "I should've suspected as much. The new chairman is quite a work of art. As for the former one...he's long gone."
"Indeed. Nobody knows about Crawford's whereabouts, but I'm sure he has some connection to the Balam Alliance."
"In any case, it seems you've gotten your hands full right after leaving by raising a child. It also seems that you both have come to terms with each other."
Jellal slightly smirked, somewhat proud of his endeavour. "So you saw the ring on Erza's finger."
"I did. I'm glad nothing held you back. If your loss came with such a blessing, then I have no objections to your decision. However, I want to make sure it was the choice you wanted."
"At least Erza and my other friends...I can't lose them. I regret nothing. Besides, my end goal wasn't the Magic Council."
The gleam in his eyes told Makarov that his end goal was something beyond what man could dream of. And honestly, who could fault such an accomplished man for wanting the unattainable?
"As long as you didn't sacrifice your dream, I have no qualms. Your infiltration mission is complete."
"That's a relief. Now onto another concern, I was also wondering if the guild wanted to raise Eugene. I think he'll benefit from many guardians."
"I suppose now that you're no longer a councillor, it makes hiding this news much easier. His hair colour is closest to Elfman and Mirajane, so we can claim that one of them is his parents."
"Mira, of all people?"
"She's good at handling the guildhall. I'm sure she can assume the role of his mother. But behind the scenes, you and Erza are his guardians, like Michelle said."
"We can't claim that Mira is his biological mother since she's been appearing in Sorcerer Weekly. We can get away with the adoption excuse."
"That sounds better."
This former councillor could now love, like an ordinary person. Seeing Jellal genuinely happy after so long made the guild master realize that the Magic Council wasn't worth abandoning his childhood for. Yet, he still grew into a brilliant person.
"Jellal, I want you to know that all your years of suffering and forced maturation are not in vain. You're an intelligent man, and I'll support any path you choose to take."
"I'm indebted to you, Makarov. You allowed me the chance to grow into the person I am today. Even being able to join this guild was a blessing itself."
Makarov whispered, "I'm proud. You and Erza both deserve nothing short of happiness in the next chapter of your lives.
"Speaking of which, would you consider becoming guild master after the trials?"
Jellal laughed. "Not a chance. That's something only you could do best."
"Still can't get away from guild master, can I?"
"I meant it when I said that your mentorship is incomparable to anyone else."
Makarov jumped off his chair, watching it roll before whistling. "Alright, that's enough seriousness for one day. For now, let's celebrate your..."
"Engagement." Jellal helpfully supplied.
He coughed, "Right, engagement. But welcoming new members into the guildhall is a must. Our latest edition, Eugene, is the first celebration of the day."
"Of course," they exited the room, observing the swarms of people that recently arrived at the guildhall since they were last downstairs. Jellal took a seat beside Erza as Mirajane's interrogation continued.
Mirajane grinned at Jellal almost maliciously, "Congratulations, husband-to-be."
Two could play at that game. "I will accept your words graciously, mother-to-be."
"Oh, whose mother am I becoming?"
Jellal's wicked grin said it all, and Erza knew where this conversation was heading. "Mira, you know better than to provoke Jellal."
"Well, since you asked, Mirajane Strauss, I'd like you to meet Eugene." To emphasize his words, he placed Eugene's basket on the bat countertop. "He resembles you the closest, and for that reason, we're going to identify him as your child."
Mirajane stopped wiping the glass she was holding, smile disappearing. "Did I hear that correctly? Are you telling me to be the mother of a child you and Erza brought to the guild?"
"It's only a front, and you weren't the only person taken into consideration. Elfman can be Eugene's father. Either or is fine with me, but you must have a preference."
Now the question begged who would play the role of a parent in front of others: a Sorcerer Weekly model or a boy who didn't know a thing about children.
"I'll happily accept the challenge, Jellal. You're going to wish you never mocked me, Wizard Saint."
There it was, the rivalry from the past.
Mirajane's gaze softened almost immediately after when she laid eyes upon the baby. "So this was your blessing from the fortune teller, right, Erza?"
"It appears so. At least I know Michelle left her child in good hands. Everyone in the guild will raise him, so that he's never without parents."
Mirajane hummed in agreement, continuing on with making breakfast. She could make out Juvia, Wendy, and Levy inches away after hearing their conversation.
Juvia's ears turned red as she approached Erza and Jellal with the other bluenettes. "Did I just hear that you both have a...baby?"
"And that...you both are engaged?" Wendy asked, fingers prodding together.
"So that means that we will finally have a wedding within our guildhall?" Levy finished with a glint in her eyes.
"Babies..." Juvia mumbled. Erza and Jellal glanced at each other, trying not to laugh at the different reactions of all the mages.
"Well, the child is a long story. As for the news of our engagement, yes, that's true."
Wendy blushed, "Congrats! So, who proposed to who?"
"Long story short, Jellal did." Erza finished before Jellal could answer. The Wizard Saint sheepishly ran a hand through his hair.
Juvia nearly pulled her hair out when she heard them. "You both are getting married? As in, have a wedding, and babies kind of marriage?"
"Well, the confession was on a whim, so we haven't really discussed much after that." Jellal answered, wondering if it was random. Then again, normal people probably did nothing like Jellal and Erza.
Levy dreamily suggested, "I should write a novel on how the two strongest wizards in Fairy Tail fell in love and got married. I can write really captivating scenes, about how you guys kissed under the moonlight, or how Jellal bent down on one knee to propose."
Erza lightly chuckled, "That wouldn't be far from the truth."
Mirajane leaned in closer upon hearing Erza's previous statement. "Are you going to spare the details?"
"I think you're forgetting who you're speaking to, Mirajane." Juvia cautioned, holding her hands out. "This is Erza after all."
Erza's smirk mirrored Mirajane's. "You might want to reconsider asking that, Mira."
"Just this once, I'll retract my statement."
Levy sighed, "Mira, you're getting too creative with your imagination. They're both so serious and mature, I doubt anything interesting really happened."
"I would rather you not try to imagine us doing anything. Besides, you're traumatizing poor Wendy." Erza commented.
The young girl was red in the face, speechless, to say the very least. "Well, I should try going on a mission with Carla. I'll see you guys later!"
Carla sniffled almost frustratingly, commenting on the ladies' immaturity. Jellal didn't care to question their sanity, knowing the teasing was inevitable.
Jellal studied the young girl. "Wendy's never taken on a job yet, had she?"
All ears were sharp as everyone waited for Wendy to pick a job out. Noticing the stares, Wendy sat down at a bench and placed her face in her hands.
"Come to think of it, she hasn't," Mirajane mused. "I think I'll save a job for her. It'll be her very first job, and what a special occasion that will be!"'
Juvia lingered around longer, wishing she could have some unattainable romance, but knew better than to stall around. She wanted to grow within the guild, and pining over Gray wouldn't help.
The Wizard Saint felt her presence and asked, "Is there something wrong, Juvia?"
"Oh, nothing at all. Sorry," with a blush of embarrassment, she left the two mages along with Eugene, only for another group to walk in.
"Hey Luce, check it out! Jellal and Erza laid an egg!" Natsu hollered, grabbing the basket. With such carelessness, Erza growled and snatched it away from the Dragon Slayer.
Lucy was too focused on Erza's finger to make any other comment. "Erza! You're getting married?"
Erza's small nod confirmed it all, and Lucy glanced at Jellal. "That ring costs a fortune! You're lucky, Erza. Guild life isn't very luxurious. We don't make a lot of money, but now that you're marrying a councilman, you'll be loaded with money. That's besides the point, congratulations!"
She laughed at Lucy's rambling, "Well, I'm surprised you of all people have concerns about money."
Jellal's eyes were trained on Gajeel, who left the guild after speaking to Makarov. He surveyed the guildhall and noticed everyone was busy getting things from Makarov.
From the looks of it, the couple was next.
"Jellal, I have a task for you and Erza. We'll need it done soon because the Blossom-Viewing Festival is tomorrow!"
"Ah, that's why everyone's out today." Jellal noted. The only people hanging around were Natsu's group along with Juvia and the Shadow Gear. "Well, what is the task?"
"It's quite simple for mages of your caliber. There's a herb in Mount Hakobe that temporarily increases a wizard's power. I want you both to retrieve some and bring them back to me."
No further explanation was needed because Jellal knew which herb the guild master referred to. The location was quite inconvenient since Blizzardverns hogged the herbs to themselves.
"What about Eugene?" Erza asked suggestively since the two parents were expected to take care of him.
"You leave him right here with his grandpa!" Makarov beamed, taking Eugene out of the basket to play with him. Mirajane returned with boxes and set them down, rushing to the child.
"He's adorable! Don't you worry, I've had younger siblings, so I can take care of this little one!" the She-Devil exclaimed.
Jellal grinned at Makarov. "If Laxus is your grandson, then wouldn't Eugene technically be your great grandson?"
Makarov sighed, "I guess I'm getting too old for this gig. Call me whatever you deem fit, kiddo. Now off you go, it should be a great trip for you both."
Erza brought out all the baby supplies and filled the countertop with it, explaining in depth to Makarov and Mirajane how to hold, feed, and change Eugene's diaper. Jellal couldn't help the warm feeling at her concern for Eugene.
Mirajane pushed Erza towards the guildhall doors, "Don't get too caught up in Jellal."
"How presumptuous of you, Mirajane. I wouldn't dream of jeopardizing the mission."
To assert Mirajane's point, Jellal took Erza's hand, to which the scarlet-haired mage blushed.
To the guild, he was reserved, but in front of her, there was nothing to be afraid of.
"I think I'll take my sweet time with her," Jellal said smugly.
Everyone in the guildhall watched them leave hand-in-hand.
Millianna carried the bingo stand to the park with cherry blossoms, setting it in front of the largest tree for the festival.
Wally whistled, "Hey Milly, you heard about Jellal and Erza, right?"
She shook her head, but upon seeing Wally's grin, Millianna covered her mouth and gasped. "Did he finally confess?"
"That's what it looks like. Everyone was talking about the ring on Erza." He placed all the blankets on the ground for the picnic.
"I was waiting for that to happen! I knew it was them!"
"I think all of us knew, Millianna," Sho said, looking back at Simon. "Especially him."
They all went quiet at the mention of Simon. But he didn't seem abnormal in the least. Simon's lips curved in amusement. "I'm not deaf, you know. I heard what happened as well."
"And you're not upset?" Wally inquired unbelievably.
"Not really. Jellal always captivated others the moment they met him."
Millianna sniffled, "The tragic third-wheeler that is forced to endure the love of his life move on."
Sho scoffed at her in response. "That's not Simon's point, Milly. You make it sound like some soap opera."
"It is! But worry not, Simon, you shall find another beautiful maiden someday."
"I think I've had enough romance for a lifetime, Millianna. Besides, Wally kind of made it clear that Erza had a crush on Jellal way back when we were kids. I'd rather not have anyone tease me about it anymore."
A voice far too close to the group concluded, "So we had a love triangle I was unaware of?"
Mirajane. Of course, she wanted in on the love life of Simon Mikazuchi.
The She-Devil patted Simon's head as though he weren't so much taller than her. "Aw cheer up, Simon. Erza and Jellal will still be your best friends. I remember the days when you three hung out all the time."
"I think Jellal knew you were crushing on Erza," Millianna teased. Simon tensed at the mention of the Wizard Saint.
"Was it so obvious?"
"Afraid so," Wally chirped.
Mirajane clasped her hands together. "Anyway, we're setting up the bingo, and I want Jellal and Erza to win the tickets to Akane Resort so they could spend some time together alone. Wanna help set it up?"
"That is solely probability, Mira." Simon pointed out, to which Mirajane chuckled when she played the numbers and found them repeating in a specific order for the first ten times.
"Cheating much," Sho commented.
"Not really. I just need the bingo cards to play out according to Jellal and Erza's cards, which I have over here." She flashed them out in front of the group. "Everyone else is the luck of the draw."
Everyone gaped at her. The lengths Mirajane went to for the engaged couple.
Millianna shook her hand firmly with Mirajane's, "Meow! Sounds like a purr-fect plan!"
"I've got some more tickets for us to win so we can sneak up on their date to Akane Resort!" Mirajane gleamed, suddenly insistent on crashing the unofficial vacation.
Lucy appeared, scratching the back of her head and tired. Having heard the last bit, she added, "Oh, Loke gave me four tickets to Akane some time ago. We should go before winter ruins our plans."
Sho objected, "...wouldn't it be awkward to stalk them? They're famous as it is. I doubt they'd even go."
Simon raised an eyebrow, "Mira, you can't outsmart Jellal. If you come in a disguise, he'll have you figured it. I'm telling you, he's too perceptive for his own good."
Lucy sighed dreamily, "You guys also heard about their engagement? That ring is so expensive. What I would give to become a council member."
Natsu and Happy walked into their conversation with supplies towering over them.
Happy grinned, "Or marry one. Are you in looove?"
"Are you implying I like Jellal!?" Lucy shouted, chasing after the giggling exceed.
Natsu scratched the back of his head, "Yeah, no. The Magic Council sounds boring."
"It sounds like money!"
Natsu gasped when he pieced the ring and the child in the basket. "Wait...so Erza laid an egg? Is that why she got a ring?"
Lucy all but slapped him on the head. "No, you dummy! She and Jellal adopted him." She paused, mouthing, "I wonder what caused them both to adopt a child. Are they infertile?"
Everyone stared at her awkwardly, being just as clueless as her. Mirajane offered an explanation. "I don't think they've even done anything before, Lucy. It's a long story, but that child was claimed dead by the father, and a whole court trial ensued. They found him and brought him here so that his father wouldn't find him."
Lucy blushed at her less-than-appropriate insinuation of the mages. She held her hands up defensively with mild horror plastering her expression. "Oh, I see. I shouldn't have made that assumption, but Levy's told me that Erza reads racy novels, so I thought she would've..."
"Done something? Doubtful." Mirajane snorted, "This is Erza and Jellal. If you haven't noticed, she's more gentle around him."
"You sound like you know her more than anyone else," Juvia mused, disregarding Lucy's discovery of Erza's fondness for racy novels. Millianna burst out laughing while Sho blushed.
"You just had to see Erza's face whenever I mentioned Jellal. I think anyone could get away with making fun of her."
Hearing about Erza's younger self made everyone want to experience what it was like interacting with the younger version. Juvia subtly made her way to the group, keen on learning more techniques on how Erza snagged Jellal, so she could do the same with Gray.
Juvia sulked upon hearing about their long history, and that they only now came to terms with each other.
Mirajane nudged Juvia, "You seem curious about them, why is that?"
"Well, they both are so busy, I wonder how they make time for each other. Besides, I sort of...admire them."
"Well, that's new, isn't it, Juvia? You'll get lots of time to bond with them at the festival tomorrow. So let's all prepare for the festival!"
Everyone shouted and sang as they worked through the day, waiting for the herbs to be brought back to them.
Simon finally accepted the situation, and knew doing as his sister said would've resulted in conflict.
The day ended with the herb being retrieved and the S-Class mages were sent home after everyone cuddled Eugene. Makarov wanted to celebrate the engagement after the festival, deeming it necessary to have a special occasion dedicated to them.
Jellal returned a bit later after discussing a pressing matter with Gajeel, and Erza wondered how much longer she was going to stay over at his place if Eugene now belonged to them.
She opened the fridge, trying to find something—anything she could make do. Erza was best at baking, but not cooking. Most of her meals were given at the guildhall.
She knew Jellal cooked, however, and couldn't stop imagining him doing so.
"Erza," Jellal greeted, stunned by her appearance in the kitchen.
She assumed something was wrong when he saw her, and she immediately closed the fridge doors. "I didn't mean to snoop around! Sorry."
"You've done nothing wrong," he assured, approaching her quietly. "I'm glad you're staying, mon amour."
Erza barely gasped at his French and couldn't help but remember when Jose called her a little killer in that same language, the language which Jellal used to reaffirm his love.
"Ah, you beg so nicely, I almost reconsidered. However, such pretty words cannot bring back the dead, mon petit tueur."
A despaired little thing she was when Jellal was bleeding to death.
She closed her eyes to shunt out the memory. When she reopened them, they were fixated on her fiancé's hazel eyes.
"Jellal, we need to talk about how much longer my stay is going to be. We can't be like this forever."
"Why not?" he asked, finding no reason to have her leave. He suggested, "Are you afraid I might try something unwelcome?"
She caught on quickly, not naive to his wordplay. "No! I know that's not at all your intention," she backed into the counter, wary of him. Jellal matched her for each step she took back. "It's just...we're responsible for a child but I technically live in Fairy Hills. Shouldn't I be there instead?"
He hummed, "Then come live with me. We'll get married earlier if that's what you want."
She didn't find the idea to be awkward in the slightest. "Really? You wouldn't mind that?"
"I want you to move in with me, Erza. If marriage is how you want that to happen, then I won't hesitate to be your husband. I already told you last night that I want this."
Erza slowly nodded, "I would like that."
The counter's edge met Erza's hips, and Jellal used the opportunity to sweep her in for a kiss.
Erza was breathless as he closed the distance. With her beneath him, she'd never felt so vulnerable in her life.
But she wanted this so badly. To have Jellal by her side and make every moment special.
As if reading her thoughts, he said, "I would've done this sooner if I hadn't joined the Magic Council."
"Kiss me?"
"Just being with you. That is a bonus though, and I'm not one to complain."
"You probably read my mind." She accused, jabbing a finger into his frock coat.
"Maybe," his teasing smile gave him away, but he still insisted, "so, do you want to get married after the S-Class Trials?"
They had just confessed, and now they were talking about marriage. Was it odd that neither of them had objections?
Then again, their story was always complicated.
"Of course, that seems like a perfect timing." She wondrously imagined her wedding and everything that would ensue.
All with this beautiful man.
He stared at the clock across the kitchen. "Is Eugene asleep?"
She nodded, "I could take him and go to Fairy Hills. It seems everyone would like to raise him as well."
"Can you stay?" he asked softly. She longingly melted in his gaze.
"Well...my reputation as Head Girl may be tarnished because of this."
"Who's to say they're not already talking about us? You heard what Levy said earlier today. Imagine what rumours are circulating right now."
She opened her mouth to protest, but he said, "You won't be returning tonight, anyway. This wasn't different from the past two days. The only thing now is that everyone will be alert of your absence."
"Alright, there's only a week until the trials begin..." she trailed off, staring off into Jellal's bedroom. "Where will Eugene be during the S-Class Trials?"
"We'll have to leave him with the members not qualifying for the trials."
Erza huffed, "We have to take him!"
"Erza, he's still little. We can't risk him getting sick because of Tenrou's weather. Besides, it's not the nicest place an infant can be during Fairy Tail's promotions."
"I suppose so." She agreed, leaning into him. "I just hope everything goes well."
"There's the festival to look forward to. Don't worry about the trials for now."
She said against his chest, "Speaking of which, who are you nominating?"
"Well, I rooted for Simon, Cana, and Gray this year. Gray's stunt in Galuna may have been much, but he's a capable wizard. I heard Gildarts wanted Natsu in this year."
"And you have no objections?"
"No. He's quite resourceful, but I'm sure Cana will succeed this year. She's participated in many trials to know the workings of the competition."
"Part of me wants her to win. Cana doesn't particularly like this time of the year."
Erza sank her head into his shoulders. Jellal combed his fingers through her hair, "So let's make the most of the festival. Those doubts and troubles can wait."
She stared at her fiancé, "You're..."
"Optimistic?" he helpfully supplied.
"Oblivious," she chose instead, rising to meet his gaze. He laughed and pecked her cheek.
"Oh Erza, I am anything but oblivious."
She wanted to ask him what he meant by that, but he disappeared into his room, and the ensuite door shut.
Erza touched her lips, where he kissed her earlier, and felt a tingling sensation.
The mage suddenly felt foolish for calling him oblivious, knowing it was an inaccurate way to describe him.
He knew exactly what effect he had on her.
Mirajane laughed to herself, finding the plan to be perfect. She memorized the numbers that would be presented in the order she wanted Jellal and Erza to win the tickets to Akane Resort. Then they would be alone.
Finally.
She would happily take Eugene and let them go their merry way, enjoying the engagement to their fullest.
Everyone brought food along to share with those they were sitting.
Well, mostly.
Cana hogged her barrels of booze to herself, threatening anyone who stared at her prized possession.
Then Erza and Jellal entered, with Erza rolling a stroller along the way. Everyone could tell parenting came naturally to Erza.
As for Jellal, people found it surprising that for once he had little knowledge on the topic.
Mirajane gleamed, "Eugene!"
She took the stroller from Erza and grinned, "He'll be with me for quite some time, so you both enjoy."
Erza became more self-conscious when Jellal's finger untangled only to lace their fingers with a tighter grip. He noticed her loose hold.
"Do you want Eugene back from Mirajane?" Jellal asked, leaning down to whisper the words in her ear.
Erza shook her head, "No. I just feel a very close presence."
Whirling on her heel, she was confronted by none other than Millianna and the group. Cana dragged Lucy over as well, to which the blonde squeaked in embarrassment.
Cana and Millianna started, "So, I heard you weren't at Fairy Hills last night, Erza. Everything alright?"
Jellal sighed, knowing the conversation was bound to happen. Wendy overheard them and spilled her lemonade, backing away from the group with a furious blush.
Juvia couldn't find the words to speak, suspecting what everyone else was concluding.
Erza visibly deflated, "Not this now. I was over at Jellal's place last night."
Juvia and Millianna yelped, covering their ears. The Water Mage repeated the word babies like a never-ending mantra.
Sho and Wally shrugged it off while Simon watched Millianna's exaggerated reaction.
Jellal clarified, "Your minds are brimming with ideas, but don't get too creative. Erza has been staying over so we can both take care of Eugene."
"Well, there is some merit in being a Wizard Saint." Makarov chimed in smugly. The guild master strolled into the festival with Gildarts at his side. "Seems you live up to your title as a saint."
Jellal caught onto the underlying implication and said, "If that were truly how Wizard Saints were appointed, then you wouldn't be one today."
Gildarts cackled at the response, finding it fitting. "When did Jellal get so smooth at insulting people?" the older man wheezed, laughing at Makarov.
"I think," the guild master started, "we've ended our hypothesis about Erza's stay."
"Case closed, nothing happened." Erza clapped her hands together, to which the girls whined. "Now let's play bingo!"
The She-Devil ran towards the couple in the blink of an eye, handing out their cards. "For you two."
Erza stared at the card in distrust. She could tell by the crinkles at the sides that the card seemed used.
Jellal must have noticed too, as a grin slowly plastered his countenance. "I'm assuming Mirajane has many surprises for us."
"I think it's particularly pertaining to us," Erza commented dreadfully.
Mirajane gathered everyone at the front, where she rolled Eugene's stroller back and forth. "Let's play bingo!"
Loud cheering resounded and sure enough, the crowd settled down. Erza beamed, "I always get lucky in bingo, this year I'll win for sure!"
"I'm not sure if your win will be sheer luck this time." Jellal pointed out. His fiancée didn't seem bothered by Mirajane tampering with their cards. It only meant that those two were in for some surprises.
"Number thirty-seven!"
"That first place prize is mine!" Erza called out. Levy backed down after hearing Titania proclaim victory for another year.
"Should have seen that coming, I never win." Levy sighed. Jet and Droy immediately shunted the possibility and said third time was the charm.
Lucy stared at Erza's bingo card. "I guess Erza not only has great skill, but luck as well."
"No way. This is misleading. There's no way Erza's going to win." Gray scoffed, putting down the next number called out. That, too, was marked down by Erza.
Simon passed by and laughed off Gray's assumption while Millianna, Sho, and Wally followed behind.
"I didn't get a single one," Millianna cawed, only to stare in bewilderment when Erza shouted the magic word.
She raised her card high up, "Bingo!"
Everyone awed as Erza went up to claim her prize. Mirajane's smile didn't change as Titania came up ever so excited.
"Congratulations!"
Eagerly, Erza asked, "So, do I win anything?"
"Mhm, a herb that's rumoured to increase a wizard's power temporarily."
"What?" the knight shot back quickly. "B-but it's already wilting, and I picked those yesterday."
Makarov clasped his hands behind his back. "Well, that's bound to happen when you bring it to a warmer climate. Sorry, kiddo."
"This isn't fair. I want a refund!" she dropped her knees and mourned over her prize.
"Oh, I'm sorry," Mirajane said soothingly.
Jellal made it over by her side. "Cheer up, if I win something, you can have it."
"But I want my first place prize," Erza complained, walking back to her designated picnic blanket with all her friends surrounding her.
"I would probably need that herb," Simon mentioned. "I think it would come handy for the S-Class Trials."
"That's a good idea, but do you have any way to preserve it?" Jellal asked.
"I'll think of something. It would be a good booster."
The next number came, and Jellal was one more to getting the second place prize. Unbeknownst to Mirajane, there were three candidates that would compete for Jellal's intended prize.
"Number fifty-six."
"Bingo," Jellal called out, as well as Elfman, Gajeel, and Juvia.
The She-Devil paled upon hearing many bingos, but did not lose her composure. "Well, it seems we'll have to have contests to determine the best person. Let's see..."
She went with Gajeel's weakness. "I know! Whoever has the best performance wins the prize. You all are competing for a two day Akane Resort couple package."
Quick as a wink, Gajeel grabbed his guitar and stood at the front of the bingo stand.
"Sparkling colourful, shooby do-"
Mirajane pushed him with a friendly pat on the back. "A very nice performance, if you want to get thrown off the stage. Next!"
The Dragon Slayer growled, but moved aside. Juvia stood there imagining her Akane Resort date with Gray. Mirajane considered giving her the tickets, but knew her chances of going with Gray were very low.
"I'm sorry. I didn't get a proper response. Disqualified!"
Next came Elfman, who Mirajane pulled towards her. She ushered her brother to bend down to her level and whispered something in his ear. Elfman turned red and left the stage, exclaiming to the crowd that he didn't want the tickets.
Jellal was guessing Mirajane threatened to expose him, and that secret had to do with a girl that got him to back down.
Mirajane applauded in Jellal's direction. "Congratulations, you win!"
"Funny, I did nothing." Jellal responded, raising an eyebrow at her suspiciously.
She couldn't believe she was going to say this.
Oh well, if it risked her being glared at Erza for the rest of her life, then so be it. "Well, just looking at you is a performance, Jellal. What a handsome fellow!"
Jellal could only chuckle in response to her explanation, and everyone seemed invested in Mirajane's topic. There were many squeals after she said that, still unbeknownst to many that he was betrothed.
He could hear talk about the Wizard I'd Want to Date list. "Mirajane, please be fair to the other contestants."
"Nonsense, you won fair and square. Besides, anyone could top Gajeel's performance."
Said person growled from his position on the ground, "It's not like I was dying for those tickets, anyway. Jellal can take them."
"What about Elfman?" Jellal asked.
Mirajane went to her brother with a friendly smile, but everyone could sense the malice behind it. "He's answerable to his older sister. I'm pretty sure he doesn't want those tickets, isn't that right, Elfman?"
Her younger brother gulped in response, "R-right! Besides, I didn't realize it was for couples."
The Wizard Saint sighed, "Alright, I'll take them."
Relieved, Mirajane handed over the tickets to him eagerly. "Enjoy your vacation with your fiancée. I'm sure she's going to enjoy it!"
"I think she will as well, however," he paused midway and approached Juvia, who hesitantly stepped back in response to his approach. Jellal held out the tickets, which Juvia didn't take at first.
"You won them fairly, Jellal." Juvia said, her shame getting the best of her. There was a sense of respect for Jellal of all people, especially since he heard Juvia and Gajeel out after they disbanded. "Please, I want you to enjoy the trip with Erza."
"I can buy them later. Besides, taking care of a child means I won't be able to go alone with Erza. So please, take them."
She hesitantly accepted them, bowing her head down. "Thank you."
"Think nothing of it, Juvia. Enjoy it with whoever you bring along." He smiled after, "If you're able to convince him to come along."
Juvia's eyes widened in surprise, wondering how he figured her out so easily. Then again, he was a council member for a reason. She shouldn't have been surprised at his perceptiveness. "I...I'll do my best to not let these go to waste."
She left in a hurry, while Jellal returned to his spot and found Erza with Eugene once again. She laughed after he settled beside her, "I can't believe Mirajane went to such lengths just to get you to win the tickets."
"She must have thought you were going to react poorly to her words."
"Well, you're undeniably beautiful. I have no objections with people admiring that."
Jellal wanted to ask in what way he was beautiful to her, but Erza continued. "I suppose we're going to be leaving this festival without a prize. Why didn't you accept the tickets?"
"I could afford those tickets again, while the others can't. Working in the guild doesn't necessarily make you rich." Erza hummed in response, concurring with his reasoning.
"Sometimes you're too selfless."
Jellal huffed, "I see that trait in you more than myself. Besides, I'm going to buy those tickets later today. I remember you telling me we should go on a vacation."
He took in the beauty of his lover as her hair swayed with the wind and with such a gentle look, he only wanted to hold her in his arms. "Yes, l remember that conversation as well, and I'd love that."
His eyes held love that nobody could explain, and in that moment he only admitted to himself that she was his weakness. He would do anything for her, and they both saw that through his use of black magic to restore her arm.
That weakness would also lead to his demise.
How many people they would lose, how much they would suffer, and the vows Jellal wouldn't be able to fulfill.
He would regret the night before, because although his heart told him to love, his mind knew it wasn't meant to be.
Jellal was simply a man who wasn't allowed to love without losing.
Levy McGarden might as well be the author of this fanfic. She broke the fourth wall. ;)