Promises
It was dark out in the early morning. Nocturnal animals were doing their last few tasks before the sun basked the world in its radiant glow. But in the forest, two beings were battling in the darkness. Clashes were heard of their weapons meeting over and over again. A sword flashed briefly as it's welder slashed at their opponent. The other narrowly dodged the attack and threw their own mini-spears at them midair. The swordmaster blocked all three and charged again at them weapons ready. The other landed and saw them coming and ran at them in response. The moment before their clash the other slid under and in between the sword uses legs, quickly stood and spin kicked them in the back twice sending them tumbling onto the ground. They recovered and turned back to their opponent's sword ready. Though it was still dark out some stars remained in the sky lighting up the area slightly but enough for those to see that the sword user was a red-haired woman with brown eyes staring down her target. Her target was a white-haired man that was smirking confidently at her.
"Not too bad Erza. Though you still are a bit too direct. It's easy to read your movements," he commented. Erza stood up dropping her guard,
"I see and your swordplay is slacking. Don't tell me you've been skipping out on the exercises I've taught you," she responded with a smirk of her own. Soler chuckled,
"Maybe but I can tell you haven't been doing those hand drills I've given you either. Your punches are seriously lacking," he teased. Erza raised a challenging eyebrow at that unequipping her sword,
"Lacking? What if I've just been holding back?"
"Well, then we've been doing the same thing since I've pulled a few punches myself. Didn't want to hurt ya too bad," he joked back. Erza got into a stance fist raised,
"Then let's stop holding back," she responded. Soler smiled getting into a stance as well,
"As you wish," without wasting a beat both combatants charged at each other their warrior pride on fire. Both planted their forward foot firmly and swung with all their might. Their fist made contact with the others face with tremendous force. The two stayed in the position for a few moments in the struggle of supremacy as both could be heard silently grunting, neither eyes showing an ounce of defeat. Then at once, both arms slacked as they fell to the ground in unison. They both laid out on the ground breathing hard letting the early morning sounds ring but then a small snicker escaped Erza's lips which soon turned into laughter. Soler followed suit laughing with the red. Their laughter ended with the two having satisfied smiles on their faces.
"Man that was a solid punch back their Erza," Soler spoke as he flexed his jaw,
"Same to you. I think I'll be feeling that one for a while." she responded rubbing the spot he hit. He hmm'd quietly in thought at that,
"Well, you'll probably forget about it once you hit the resort. Then you can melt away the pain with fun and games," he said in an unintentional rhyme.
"That is true. Are you sure you don't want to come along? The offer still stands," she responded. Soler moved so that he was laying right next to her and smiled at her,
"Nah I'm good but you go enjoy. You deserve to relax." Soler responded. Erza knew he was going to deny but she wanted him to come and relax with them and spend time with them. Spend time with her,
"Are you sure you don't want to come? I know you're still healing but your serious injuries have mostly healed. Well all except-"
"My hand? Yeah, I know Erza and I really would like to go with you trust me but I just don't feel one hundred percent yet. So I think it'd be best if I just stay back and rest up more so that when you return I'll be back at peak health," he gave her that signature smile of his and she just couldn't argue with it. She understood where he was coming from wanting to be back in good health and even though a resort trip would be nice if his hand was bothering him then he wouldn't enjoy himself. She sighed but nodded with a small smile of her own,
"Alright. I wouldn't want you to be uncomfortable at the resort and you know you're body best," his smile only sweetened which brought a slight blush to her face,
"Thanks, Erza. Now, how about we just sit back and rest a little from that spar. It's always so peaceful this early in the morning," Soler laid down on his back and rested his head on his wrapped arm. Erza took a moment to take a look and his still form as his eyes were closed and a content smile was on his face. He was completely at ease with her around and that thought alone made her heart flutter. She was surprised by the sudden feeling and tried to shake it off before laying down next to him.
The two laid in comfortable silence together as their bodies eased from the intense training from earlier. As they rested there Erza couldn't help but notice how close her hand was to his. She could see the white guild symbol and it was only a few centimeters away from hers. Her hand began to move without her command and she quickly had to reign it back it in,
'What is wrong with me?' She shouted in her mind as the blush from earlier only grew. She tried to shake off the thought of holding his hand but the more she thought about it the more she wanted to feel his hand intertwined in hers. She took a glance over to look at Soler and seeing that same calm smile on his face only made her heartbeat louder,
'He looks so at ease, so calm and so-,' She stopped her thought as she looked to the man beside her. This wasn't the first time she's had thoughts like these about Soler. The white-haired male had been in her thoughts more often and she'd be lying if the main reason she was pushing him to go on the trip was just to get some more time with him. The two were partners but the only times they were alone were out on jobs and that's not really a perfect setting. What's been strange to her and nagging at her is that she didn't want to be alone with him to get to know him since they have been together since they were children but she wanted to be alone to confide in him and maybe open up. She knows all about the blurred past of his but he only knows bits and pieces of hers and she felt he deserved to know it all. Especially with how she's been feeling towards him, since the last guy, she's felt this way towards… She shook her head to get those images out,
'No, he's not like him. Soler is completely different than him.' She told herself. She looked back over to his face and he still held that smile that she was beginning to adore. She then glanced back down to his hand and the urge to hold it came back again in full force and with more vigor, but that same nagging thought came with it,
'I will tell him. I'll tell him everything just when I'm ready. Yes, when I'm ready.' She promised to herself as she ever so slowly moved her hand closer to his. Just before she could grab his hand,
"Hey, Erza why don't you take off your armor more often?" The question startled the mage immensely,
"W-What?" she stuttered retracting her hand. Soler looked over to her his expression a mix of seriousness with curiosity,
"Your armor, you rarely ever take it off besides when it's necessary. Why?" he asked her again his tone even. The question was taking Erza for a spin as the promise she made to herself replayed. Her heart tightened as the urge to tell him the truth was rushing up but when she looked at those eyes the feeling got buried behind her fears. The same fears that have been hugging her soul tight ever since she was a little girl and escaped that place. His question brought back that little girl if even for a moment as she involuntarily began to close up,
"It's because you never know when an attack might come so it's best to always be ready," she responded. It was a common lie she told to those who have ever asked her which thankfully were very few yet with him it felt different telling that same repeated lie. Soler's smart yet he's understanding so how he responds to it was up for grabs and it only added a bit more anxiety to her. Soler gave her an understanding look but in truth, he didn't buy it,
"Right. So what's the real reason then?" he responded with the same tone. Erza wanted to be surprised that he wouldn't believe her but the true part of her was glad that he could tell the simple lie. But that true part of her was being pushed down by the fearful side of her that scared little girl coming out again and wanting him to just believe that this was the truth and nothing more,
"I-I don't know what you mean. That is the real-"
Soler sat up quickly stopping her sentence. She could only see his back and yet again this one person has made her feel so vulnerable and anxious about what they were going to do. Soler was quiet for a long few moments as he gathered his thoughts,
"Erza, I don't know what happened in your past, you don't really talk about it much and I'm not one to try and pry open doors that don't want to be opened. But if you can lie to me by saying you keep that armor on all the time for practical reasons, even when we're back at the guild, then whatever it was you went through, hurt you badly and I'm sorry," Erza listened to his every word with the utmost attention. She could hear his voice waver slightly as he spoke almost as if he was trying to keep himself together and the thought of him hurting over her hurt her more than she could ever imagine. Soler took a breath to calm himself and then he turned to look back at her with the most sympathetic smile she's seen from him,
"But though I don't know what happened I want you to know that I will always be here for you to listen Erza. I want you to be able to walk around the guild without being armored up all the time because you finally feel safe and secure with us. With me. What I'm trying to get at is that when you think you're ready I'll be here for you ok? Because someday I want to see you smile for real. I have a feeling that you have the brightest smile out of everyone,"
A tear escaped her eye that she didn't even know was there. With his words alone he was able to pierce the armor around her heart. When Soler first joined the guild she only looked after him to make sure he'd survived and found friends within the guild. She wanted to be there for him like Gray was there for her when she joined. She didn't think that the same scrawny kid could grow into this man before her that was offering to take her pain away from her. He wasn't putting on a facade to get close to her to use her but he wanted to be close to her because he wanted to know about her. Her heart was filled with a loving warmth she hasn't felt in a long time and honestly, she was glad that it is Soler who's making her feel this way. Soler held his smile as he wiped the tear away,
"I never thought I'd get a tear out of you. I must really be someone special huh?" he joked to her. Erza was so wrapped with emotion that all she could do stare up at him. He kept his smile but stood up and gave a slight stretch,
"Well, I think that's enough of the emotional stuff for a while. It's almost sunrise and I don't know about you but I could use a shower and a nap. You can use my place for both since were right near it," he held his hand out to her the same hand she was aiming for not but a few moments ago.
Erza gave him a slight smile as she nodded and placed her hand in his. He pulled her up but her hair was blocking her vision from his eyes. She couldn't look at them with how full of emotion she was and was afraid if she looked at him she might start to actually cry. Soler smiled at her and was about to let go but Erza tightened the grip when she felt it loosen. He looked to her with a partially expecting face but when he didn't get anything out of her he only smiled and squeezed back,
"Sure thing Erza," he told her knowing what she meant. The two began their short walk back to his place and though Erza might not have spoken on that walk in her heart and mind her inner voice was loud and clear on one thing,
'I'm in love with him.'
"Welp now that they're gone I am left all alone. Great." griped Soler to himself. Erza, Lucy, Natsu, Gray, and Happy left for the Akane Resort for the next few days. He knew they would have fun and deserved it but that left him at the guild. He could always just take some jobs that would keep him out of town for a few days, or just travel some since he's always meant to do that. Speaking of traveling he could go see sensei since he hadn't seen him in a good while. Yet again he didn't feel like doing too much traveling for whatever reason so lazing around the guild for a few days seemed to be the best option. Soler got up from the branch he was lazing on and headed out to the guild.
Soler decided to stroll through the town this time figuring now was good as any time to. He strolled through the town of Magnolia and took in its warming presence. The people he passed would wave and some would even talk to him for a bit before going on with their day. The shops hadn't changed much since he was little though a few new shops had opened up yet he hadn't had the time to check them out. That included a few high-end restaurants that weren't his style but he had to admit he wouldn't mind just checking them out at least once. As he strolled a young boy came up to him and handed him a flyer,
"What's this?" Soler asked,
"A fireworks display is scheduled for tonight. It celebrates the guild's efforts with the Phantom attack. The town wants to show their appreciation," he said. It was then that he recognized the guild symbol on his hand and who he was. His eye lit up and a smile spread on his face,
"You're Soler!" he squeaked. Soler smiled and ruffled his hair,
"Yeah I am and thanks for the celebration kid. I'll have to tell my guildmates," he told him and walked away leaving the kid in awe he met a Fairy Tail wizard. Soler made his way to the guild and in through the doors to see not many members around today. It wasn't too strange since most were still out doing jobs but there were some familiar faces such as Mira behind the counter busy at work and,
"Cana!" he said. The brunette paused her drinking to look and see Soler walking up to her. She smiled and made space for him on the table she was sitting on,
"Well, well mister ladies man himself. Don't tell me you've come to try and woo me too," she joked. Soler shook his head taking a seat near her,
"I don't know what you're talking about. Besides the only man good enough for you is that keg you're drinking right now," he responded. Cana nodded happily,
"Damn straight. But what brings you over to my neck of the woods," she asked, taking another swig from her poison. He lazily shrugged,
"Eh, I thought I'd see how ya been. Haven't seen you in a while," Cana merely shrugged back in response,
"I've been pretty alright. Just got done with a few jobs myself. Gotta pay for this habit of mine. But I've heard you've been pretty busy around here," she replied giving a knowing look. Soler did his best to not notice,
"Whatever do you mean," he responded coyly. Cana's cheerfulness lessened slightly,
"Heard about the fight with Laxus," she said in a low voice. Soler groaned,
"I see news still travels fast around here," Cana bopped him on the head,
"Of course we're going to know about it especially when two of our S-Class have a battle so intense they clear out a section of forest and come back looking like they've been through hell! Come on you shouldn't have fought him, you know he's a jerk," she lectured. Soler only nodded,
"Yeah, I know. You Mira, Erza, and Master have lectured me on not giving in to his taunts. Though I haven't seen the jerk since so I have no idea what kind of scolding Master gave. Honestly, he's too easy on Laxus sometimes," he pouted. Cana sighed,
"Well either way both of you are idiots for letting it get that far. Though I wouldn't mind you telling me about the fight itself since I heard you came back shirtless and battered. Not going lie it's a shame I didn't get to see," she teased him,
"If you want to see a shirtless guy then just wait till Gray strips," he joked. Cana laughed and patted him on the back,
"I think all the ladies are immune to Gray by this point. But you on the other hand are a different story. Either way, I think you'd best get over Mira. She's been not so stealthy looking over here while we've been talking," Soler glanced behind him to see Mira quickly looking away and pretending she was working. Soler chuckled and stood up,
"Yeah seems like she wants to talk about something. Next time I'll have to buy you a few rounds and talk about the fight," Soler held up a fist and Cana bumped it happily,
"I like the sound of that. There's this bar around town I've been wanting to try out especially if you're buying," Soler just nodded and waved leaving to go check on Mira. As he approached the maiden tried to make it seem like she was working as he sat at the bar,
"So how's it going Mira?" he asked with a sly smirk. Mira pretended to be surprised and turned to him with a smile,
"I'm doing quite fine thank you. How are you?" she replied all too cheery,
"Doing pretty alright. So what was with all the spying then Miss. Mira? There's something on your mind?" he asked. Mira blushed slightly being caught,
"So you noticed," he nodded,
"It was pretty obvious. You're not the best at sneaking glances," she giggled in response,
"I'll have to get better then. Can't have you always catching me looking at you," Soler looked slightly confused,
"Wait you sneak looks at me? Why?" The blush Mira had only grew as she became slightly bashful,
"W-Well you have nice eyes," she said quietly. Soler's brow only dipped more,
"Sorry what?"As his emerald eyes focused completely on hers she grew more flustered,
"I-I said-" she noticed the piece of paper sticking out of his pocket and found her out, "What's that in your pocket?" she asked quickly. Soler looked to his pocket and pulled out the flyer,
"Oh yeah forgot about the fireworks display tonight. Apparently, the town is celebrating us with our efforts in stopping Phantom from destroying the town," he explained. Mira's eyes lit up,
"Fireworks? Oh, I love fireworks!" she cheered. Soler chuckled,
"I didn't know you enjoyed fireworks so much," His comment made Mira settle if only slightly but her smile stayed as big as ever,
"Yes, I do. I've loved fireworks since I was a little girl. It's one of the reasons I enjoy the Fantasia parade so much," Mentioning the celebration images of Mira's bright and excited face popped up,
"Yeah, you do perk up a lot when it comes around," The talk of fireworks got Soler to remember something,
"Oh yeah, that date. Want to do it tonight?" he asked her as laid-back as ever. Her blush quickly returned at the sudden suggestion,
"Date tonight?" she squeaked. He simply nodded,
"Yeah figured since the fireworks are tonight would be as good as any to keep good on my word ya know," Many thoughts flashed through Mira's mind as the thought of spending alone time with him was something she's wanted for a long time. She recovered the best she could the blush never leaving but a bright smile adorned her face,
"I'd love to go out with you tonight. Lucky for you I can leave early tonight since Master is here and it doesn't look like we'll be busy today. So give me a minute to talk to master and we can leave," without him saying a word Mira quickly left to talk to Makarov. Soler sat and waited as he glanced outside to see it was late in the day and now night, much like the fireworks, would be here soon. Now that he had a moment to think about it he's never been on a date before. He's seen some movies and read a few books but those weren't good sources of info. And with this realization, a mild panic washed over him of ruining this date. He needed advice. Taking a glance around and Cana came into view once again and though probably not the best choice it was his only choice nevertheless. He quickly made his way back over to her,
"Hey Cana I need your help," he said hurriedly. She was surprised Soler of all people need her help. Which only pushed to intrigued her more,
"Alright, what's the problem?" She watched him hesitate a moment obviously thinking over asking her this but after a moment of his internal debate he sighed,
"Well, ya see I'm taking Mira out on a date tonight and-" Cana choked on her drink making him stop,
"Woah you ok?" he went over and began patting her back. It took Cana a minute to recover but once she did she grabbed Soler by his jacket forcefully and her eyes wide,
"You're taking Mira out on a date!?" she demanded. Soler nodded confused. Cana let him go as she had a thoughtful expression,
"A date with Mira? Damn looks like I lost a bet," she mumbled to herself. Soler just stared at her lost but before he could ask the sound of quick footsteps drew his attention as Mira walked up to him with a smile. She wrapped her arm through his and brought herself close to his side,
"Ready to go?" Soler looked back at Cana who was too busy in her thoughts to even pay attention to him, then back to Mira and nodded,
"Yeah let's get moving," the two left Cana to her thoughts. Soler and Mira walked from the guild in the bliss of the nearing sunset. They strolled at a leisurely pace and though he still had slight nerves he felt comfortable with Mira. Not saying he's never been uncomfortable around her but this time it felt like a different type of comfort that he hadn't felt with her before. He took a look down at her and the content smile she had brought one to him too. He also got a warm feeling inside that he hadn't had before. But his earlier thoughts brought back his concerns. It was while he was in his thoughts that he felt a tug and look to Mira who was looking at him with slight concern,
"What's wrong?" she asked. An embarrassed smile found it's way to his face on being caught,
"Oh uh, I'm just trying to think about what we could do. I mean I know we'll watch the fireworks but what to do until then," he admitted. The cute giggle he got in response bewildered him,
"Sorry I didn't mean to laugh, but you could have just asked me," she explained. The simple solution made Soler laughed,
"Yeah, that's true. So is there something you want to do?" he graciously asked. Mira took a moment to look around the people and the shops until her eyes spotted a restaurant,
"I've had my eye on that restaurant since it popped up a while back. Though it is a bit pricey and I don't think we're dressed properly for it," she said, eyeing their attire. Soler looked at the restaurant and its patrons. She was right they were dressed fancy but then he looked at her sadden expression and he couldn't allow it to stay. Soler removed his arm from her and decided to wrap it around her side,
"Hey if you want to eat there then we'll eat there," he told her. Mira wanted to look concerned but his confident expression gave her hope so she just nodded and followed. The two walked up to the entrance as the host let in another couple. The man wasn't much but he did look snobby to Soler which he could tell from a person a mile away. When they walked up the smile he had faded as he took a look at the two, mainly Soler, and he could tell he looked offended by him,
"Is there something I can help you with?" he asked, not all too pleased to be talking to him. Soler smirked not at all deterred by the man,
"Yeah see my date here wanted to dine at your lovely establishment so here we are." he answered. The man looked between the two,
"I see. Well as you can tell this is a higher-end establishment and from how you are dressed I highly doubt you could afford anything from here," he sneered as a small smirk formed. Usually, this would make most back away but to his surprise, Soler still stood with his own smirk,
"Don't worry about price, I can handle whatever the bill might be," he replied. The host wanted to look surprised but he's seen this act of the male showing off for their date. In the end, they never have enough and were forced to work it off embarrassing themselves. From how confident this one was he couldn't wait to see his face after he got the bill,
"Alright, then sir. Follow me and I'll get your orders." Soler nodded and the two followed the man inside to where they instantly were getting glanced over by the other patrons. Once they made it to their seats the host left them some menus and went back to the front. They cracked open the menus and Soler's eyes widened looking at the prices.
Wow, she wasn't kidding about these prices. He thought. He took a glance over to Mira who had a similar expression,
"Soler, the things here are incredibly expensive. If you want to go somewhere else-"
"Nah don't sweat it, Mira. This won't even put a dent in my account trust me. So go and order whatever you want," he told her with a sincere smile, "Plus if from what I've seen in movies it's not cool if I can't keep a promise to my date ya know. Or at least that's what I've seen. Still not completely sure on all this," She wanted to argue but with the smile, he gave stop any further arguments,
"Alright, then I'd best enjoy this since who knows how long it'll be till I eat it again," Soler smile only brightened,
"That's the spirit, Mira! Now enjoy yourself," soon enough the waiter showed up to take their orders and menus then he was gone again leaving the two alone. Now that they were alone Soler was stuck on what to say. This was the first time since meeting Mira where he's ever been like this. He's talked to her so casually so many times but now for some reason, any words he had were stuck in his throat. It was making him feel extremely awkward and from his glance at Mira, she must have been feeling the same. He could see her squirming slightly in her seat and doing her best to pay attention to other things but him.
Damn, why is it so awkward between us? I got to say something. It's Mira I'm with I can talk to her easily. Come on say, something man. Soler took a breath and looked over at Mira,
"S-So Mira how has your day been?" he forced out instantly regretting it. Mira looked right at him taken a bit off guard by the sudden question.
"Oh um, my day has been well. What about yours?" she asked back, sounding as forced as his question. Soler chuckled nervously,
"Uh pretty alright I guess," he stammered. The silence that followed only solidified the awkwardness as they just stared at each other. But then a small snicker escaped Mira's lips which in turn got one out of Soler and soon the two were in full-blown laughter. The act got them annoyed looks from the other patrons but they didn't care. As the laughing died down the awkwardness went with it as a more casual feeling was brought back between them,
"Man that was kind of torture huh?" he joked. Mira nodded,
"It was pretty bad. I didn't expect us to ever get like that,"
"Me either. I guess this dating stuff can get a bit tense," Mira giggled at that,
"Is Mr. Soler or well now Mr. Stratus saying that one little date is too tough for him?" she teased. Soler rolled his eyes playfully,
"As if," he responded. Mira just smiled sweetly and reached out her hand. Soler knew the queue and reached out with his letting their hands intertwined.
"Still as soft as ever. How do you get your hands so soft?"
The question led to an eased conversation. They didn't talk about anything important just talking to enjoy listening to each other and learning little things they didn't know. Even when the food came, which was very delicious, they only took breaks chatting to eat. By the time they were finished neither laughed so much before. The laughter and talking came to a close when the bill came in and the host personally came to give it to them. With a sly smile, he handed Soler the bill,
"You're bill, sir," Soler took it and his eyes nearly popped out his head from the price,
"Jeez man I mean the food was good but is it really worth this much?" he complained. The host was ready to hear him say he couldn't pay much like the others but was instead surprised when Soler pulled out a card and handed it with the bill back.
Refusing to give in till the very end eh? He took the card and walked away leaving the two. The moment he walked off Soler had started to pick his teeth with a toothpick while Mira looked worriedly at him,
"Soler are you sure you don't want me to chip in?" she fretted. Soler just shook his head,
"Mira I told ya before this is has cost me more than this place. Though Natsu's tab is over the years than in one shot." he mused. Before Mira could respond the host came back with a disappointed expression as he handed Soler his card,
"We thank you for dining with us. Have a goodnight," he mumbled absentmindedly. Soler smirked and stood up,
"Thanks for having us. Let's get out of here," he said as he held his hand out to Mira. She looked confused from the host's expression but she took his hand and the two swiftly left the restaurant. Once outside and in the night air Mira couldn't help but wonder how much the bill was so she asked and all Soler responded with was by tapping his nose playfully,
"Sorry but that's a secret I shan't tell," he answered, making Mira pout. He simply smiled and patted her head gently,
"Don't worry your pretty little head, Mira. Now I think the fireworks should be starting soon," at the mention of fireworks Mira perked up with her child-like excitement,
"You're right! Oh, we should go find a good spot to watch." she said with excitement. Soler took a moment to ponder and then it clicked,
"I know the just spot," in one swift motion he picked up Mira into a bridle carry. The moment he did the brightest blush formed on her face. Soler gave her a gentle smile,
"I'd hold on tight. I tend to go pretty fast," She smiled back and wrapped her arms around his neck and nuzzled into him. With her ready, he jumped onto a roof and took off to the spot. All Mira heard was the sound of rushing wind as she had her eyes closed from the fast movement. It took only a few moments but soon they were still.
"Were here," She opened her eyes and looked on in wonder at the view. The hill Soler brought them to lay somewhere just outside the city and gave an unobstructed view of their home. The light of the city mixed with the stars shining bright was a breathtaking sight to be held. Soler placed her down so she could get a better look,
"Where did you find this place?" she asked in wonder. He walked up next to her,
"Out on a run one morning. I sometimes like to come up here and meditate now and then," he replied. Mira was lost in the view but nodded,
"It's beautiful." Soler's gaze went to her and saw the glow of the lights shining brightly off her eyes and face giving her a heavenly look he had never seen.
"Yeah it is beautiful," he responded breathlessly. They stayed gazing until they saw the sparkling light shoot up into the sky and explained in a magnificent display.
"It's starting! Come on let's sit and watch," Mira didn't even wait for a response as she grabbed his arm and dragged him to the ground sitting next to her. He didn't mind at all and soon both their attention was on the dazzling display of fireworks in the sky. They whizzed into the sky then exploded in a multitude of colors and shapes. And with the view they had, it was easy to see every single one with nothing blocking their grand show. Though Mira was lost in the dazzle of the show her eyes couldn't help but wander to Soler. He was paying full attention to the show with a cute relaxed smile on his face. But with the flashing lights, his emerald eyes were shining more than they usually do. She knew she was getting lost in them again and heartbeat quickened as the voice of Lisanna was speaking loud and clear in her head.
Now's as good as any time. She spoke but whenever he focused those eyes on her the thought of telling him got lumped in her throat. She figured out that it wasn't telling him that stopped her but it was his reaction to it. Would he reject her and ruin the bond they've made? Or would he accept and return her feelings? And then there was the thought of… Mira shook her head,
No, I can't keep worrying. I just have to try and see what happens. I'll accept whatever he says. Even if it hurts me. She took one last calming breath to ease her nerves,
"H-Hey Soler there's something I've been meaning to tell you," she said quietly as her heartbeat only grew faster. He turned and looked directly at her curiosity on his face,
"Whats up Mira?" she thought she was ready to just say it, to just say how she felt but those eyes of his, those emerald orbs that she fell for just stopped her. But she wasn't going to give up now,
"I-I want to tell you something important but could you, c-close your eyes first," she stammered. His confusion only grew but from how flustered she was looking this must be a touchy subject, so if closing his eyes helped then that was a small price.
"Alright then," he closed his eyes and waited. Moments passed with no words said and he began to worry maybe whatever she had to say was straining her. He was ready to open his eyes and ask but right before he could felt something soft press against his lips. The world around slowed to a crawl. The lips against his tasted sweet and were embracing even with the slight trembling. He knew exactly who they belonged to. But he didn't care as he let their feel take over his mind. The kiss broke abruptly and Soler opened his eyes to see a furiously blushing Mira. When she saw the blank look on his face she instantly felt she made the wrong move,
"S-Soler I can explain. S-See I wanted to tell you that-" her words were cut off when Soler moved back in for a more passionate kiss than the first one. She only stayed surprised for a second before wrapping her arms around him and deepening the kiss. The booming fireworks went silent as the two enjoyed their moment together. When the two broke away for air they rest their heads against each other and both laughed a little,
"This is what you wanted to tell me?" he joked. Mira could only nod too flustered to speak. He chuckled at the cute display,
"Well you should have told me earlier," he said lovingly. Mira smiled and looked at him with love in her eyes then brought him back in for another, if not more, passionate kiss. When they two broke apart again she was surprised when she looked at him. She giggled as she reached for his face,
"I didn't think you'd get this emotional," she told him. Soler looked confused,
"What do ya mean?" Mira rolled her eyes,
"You're crying silly," she whipped away some tears that were falling from his eye. Soler saw the tears and he wiped away some falling tears himself looking extremely confused. It was then that both realized he was only crying out of his left eye and though it was a slow steady stream it was tears nevertheless. But what was frightening Soler the most was that he didn't feel the tears flowing yet there they were. As if on cue a curdling feeling come over him and the feeling of dread was choking his heart. Mira picked up on this and looked worriedly at him placing a hand on his shoulder,
"Are you ok?" she asked with concern. He didn't respond right away as he was sifting through the feelings. But he knew they weren't his own so they had to be-
Erza's in trouble. He snapped back to reality to see Mira's worried eyes pointed at him,
"Oh uh I'm fine just got overwhelmed ya know," He looked out to see the fireworks had ended and it was probably getting late, "Hey uh Mira I hate to cut this date short but I remembered that I got some council stuff to finish before my next report. So-" Mira place a finger on his lips and gave comforting smile,
"It's alright. I know that's the look of something is up. Just drop me off at home and go help," she stated. Soler smiled back thankful,
"Thanks, Mira," Once on agreement Soler took Mira back into his arms and quickly brought her home. He placed her down and was about to dash but Mira stopped him,
"Soler," he turned to her,
"Yeah," Mira quickly brought him into another kiss before pushing him away,
"Come back alive ok?" Soler smiled and nodded,
"Promise," then he dashed off into the night.
Soler blazed in the direction of the resort. With his speed, he cut the two days journey in mere minutes and even this was too slow for him. He needed to be there and now. Luckily the resort's lights welcomed him as he grew closer. But he was forced to a halt as he felt a massive amount of magical energy building up. Then a light pierced the night sky to bring back the daylight if for mere moments. Soler looked on stunned beyond belief,
"That's an Etherion blast!" No sooner had the words left his mouth the powerful magic blast rang loose on its target Soler couldn't see. But his instincts made him get down and brace since the shockwaves would be more than powerful enough to cause damage where he was. After the light dimmed and night returned Soler looked around shocked to see nothing had been affected. Though the ethernano in the air was a lot higher there were no physical changes. He got up bewildered,
"What the hell is going on?" He knew for sure something was very wrong. He kicked into overdrive for the resort now causing a boom as he raced on. He skipped it entirely as the amount of magical energy Etherion gave off was concentrated somewhere out at sea so that was his target. Without stopping he made it to the shore and ran out to sea, learning that if he ran fast enough he could run over water. Thought that didn't matter as Erza came first and if he knew Fairy Tail wizards then she and the rest of the group were probably connected to Ethreion. He ran out for a good minute before he saw something shining brightly out in the middle of the ocean. As he approached he could see it was some sort of tower that was made of blue crystals that spiked all around it. He didn't need to sense it to know all of Etherions' magical energy was coming off of that tower. Which couldn't be good. Right before he made it to the land he caught in a water ball that stopped all his momentum. He looked around confused,
"What the hell is this?" He prodded at the bubble slightly,
"Soler?" he looked in the direction of the voice to see Gray, Lucy, Happy, a catgirl, a very straight-edged man, a blonde guy, and a blue-haired woman. But he focused his attention on Gray,
"Gray, what's going on here? And why am I stuck in this?" he questioned. Gray having looked like he'd gone through a tough battle shook his head,
"A lot's happened. Too much to explain now but what's important is that Erza and Natsu are still up there!" he shouted as he pointed up the tower. Soler looked puzzled but looked up to the top of the tower and he could see flames shooting from over the edge. He felt a massive amount of power being used from two mages one was Natsu for sure but the other he couldn't tell.
"Who is Natsu fighting?"
"Jellal," that made Soler's eye twitch,
"Jellal? Siegrain brother?" he side-eyed Gray. Lucy spoke up this time,
"There was no Siegrain. Jellal was pretending to be him the whole time. Natsu is fighting him up there to protect Erza but something feels off," she explained. Memories flashed through his mind of all the times he's interacted with Siegrain well Jellal. All the times he messed with Erza and all he could do was stand back and watch. He let it go since he was Jellal's brother but to find out that the guy that Erza was too shaken to even talk to him about was always there in her face.
Soler felt nothing for a brief few moments. He could feel the water entrapping him, the magical energy of the tower, or even feel his own heartbeat. But the one thing that he felt surge through him as it embraced and empowered him and his thoughts was one sole emotion. Anger. Anger was bubbling within him rapidly as those memories kept replaying and with each one Erza's shaken expression would always be at the tail end ass he would always say,
'Don't worry Soler. It's nothing.' But he knew it wasn't just nothing! He knew that she should stay as far away from that man as possible. His instincts screamed at him every time to snatch her away from him. But he didn't listen to it. He listened to Erza and trusted her judgment since she had history with him. But now look at where things were where everything has led. Where his silence has led. His fist clenched so tight his knuckles were slowly turning white,
'No more being silent. No more letting it go just because she said it's nothing. No more!' Those in the other water bubble could feel his energy rise. The green sparks of his energy could be seen coiling around him. Soler gritted his teeth and let out an anger-filled howl which surged the waters around him as his power spiked to uncontrollable levels. His power burst the water bubble he was in and he landed on the water. The moment he touched the water he burst across the small gap sending waves crashing against the others forcing the blue-haired woman to focus on maintaining the bubble up.
Soler traversed up the tower with ease and speed with his anger fueling him to get that man away from Erza. Once he neared the top he flipped off one of the crystals landing on the top. It took only a glance at the scene and all he needed to see was the tuft of blue hair that was currently over Natsu. Without a second thought, he charged right at him closing the distance in less than a second surprising him. Soler threw a powerful haymaker sending him flying into a crystal. He stared at Jellal with anger filled eyes,
"Jellal!" he shouted. The man took a moment to pick himself out from the crystal he was put into. He rubbed his jaw and looked to see Soler glaring directly at him. He smiled sinisterly at the sight of him,
"Well, well the surprises keep coming," he said cooly. It only pissed Soler off more but his focus shifted when Natsu jumped back up and was fuming at him,
"Hey man what the hell? This is my fight!" he barked. Soler took a look at him to see besides looking like he's gone through a rough fight on his face it looked like he scales. It made him wonder if this was the next stage for dragon slayers but now wasn't the time.
"Sorry, Natsu but I'll have to steal this one from you. You're losing power rapidly and he can still keep going," he explained but Natsu wasn't having it,
"Losing power? What do you mea-" the dragon slayer passed out on his feet and Soler caught him before he fell.
"That's what I mean pal," he took a glance around and instantly locked eyes with Erza who's eyes seemed to tremble just looking at him. She was laying next to a big man that even at a glance Soler could tell was dead. But Erza herself made Soler a bit shocked since she wasn't wearing her armor, but was wearing the pants end of a red Hamakua and had her chest wrapped in bandages. Though he was glad she was breaking out of her shell this might be a bit much. He shook the thought and went over to lay Natsu down next to her. She continued to just watch him in an emotional silence and he could feel that some tears were just behind her eyes waiting to stream.
Once he placed down Natsu he turned to Erza and gently placed his hand on her face in which almost by instinct she moved into. He felt her trembling in his grasp and his heart was aching seeing her like this. He gently rubbed her face and the few tears she was holding back started to fall yet they only fell from her right eye. When she started crying her eyes widened when she saw and it made the tears flow more. Soler only smiled softly at her understanding her feelings,
"Don't worry Erza. I'll make sure your nightmare ends tonight. I promise," with that said he stood up and faced Jellal with a fiery passion. Jellal looked slightly surprised but that switched to humor right away,
"The lapdog has come to fight but he's crying in front of his enemy. You really are just a mere mutt unable to function without your master!" he barked laughing at the teen. Soler only gritted his teeth and with tears flowing from his left eye he glared at him,
"Jellal! Before I put you down tell me why did you do all this to Erza! Out of everyone I've met Erza is the strongest, kindest, most loyal person. She might come off as intimidating at times but damnit she only does it because she can be afraid to let others in. In reality, she's as caring as the rest of anyone in Fairy Tail and would risk it all for anybody. She hasn't told me much of her past and I'd never push her to but from all I know you are the cause of why her hearts locked behind that armor. For someone to hurt a person like her to that extent and even make her cry...It's unforgivable! So right now as your last words why did you do it!?" Jellal laughter ended as he now looked at Soler as if he was looking at a sick dog,
"You ask why I did all this? I've explained it once before but just for you, I'll explain again. I did this all for the great Lord Zeref," he said getting a confused look from Soler,
"Zeref? You mean that dark god? If I remember he's dead, so you're doing all this for some dead god? That's pathetic," That made Jellal glare with anger,
"Pathetic? Don't you dare speak of Lord Zeref in such a way! He is all-powerful and will lead this world to a new era and I am the one who will help him lead it. Everything I've done has been for his resurrection. This tower, getting Etherion fired and having my catalyst Erza brought here to power it. Yes, all of this was for his sake and his sake alone!" He burst back out into manic laughter. Soler watched him with his anger was far beyond his limits at this point. His energy began to surge as he tightened his fist,
"You're saying that Erza was nothing more than some pawn to you. That she was only relevant so you could resurrect some damn dark god. You bastard!" in a blink Soler closed the distance between him and Jellal and with a power he didn't know he had and gutted Jellal hard taking him clean off the ground. He wasn't done as once he was lifted Soler slammed him down into the ground with a thunderous impact. The impact caused his energy to rupture from beneath the ground and shoot up green streaks of power. Erza watched in amazement,
'I've seen him fight seriously before, but this power is different.'
Soler was readying to strike down again but a strong kick pushed him away. Before he could retaliate Jellal was back up and covered in a golden glow. He charged at Soler with blinding speed but he was ready and struck right when he was on him. But Jellal jumped over him with ease and kicked him in the back hard. Soler tumbled forwards to recover and then entered his break form. With his heightened ability Soler went right back in to attack Jellal faster than before. He went in with a swift kick to the head in which Jellal narrowly dodged. The kick was strong enough to send a strong gust of wind from the miss. Jellal smirked and grabbed his leg. He then twirled and threw Soler into the air. Once he had gotten thrown Soler threw three quick spears at the man. But he wasn't on the ground anymore,
"Looking for someone?" the man was right behind Soler surprising him completely,
What the hell? Jellal let lose another powerful punch effectively sending Soler to the tower but before he could land Jella appeared before him and sent him back into the sky. Jellal continued this trend of knocking Soler around in the sky not letting him touch the ground making him effectively useless. Then in one last display, he grabbed Soler by the face and charged him towards the tower with that same speed and power. Right before they were to crash, Jellal launched Soler straight through the ground of the tower sending him crashing through several floors. The man just smiled wickedly as he admired the hole he left,
"Is that really all he had to offer? He was more pathetic than I estimated," he said to himself with a laugh. With Soler who was crashing through the floors he was so wrapped up in his mind he didn't even pay mind that he was falling. The thoughts of what everything Jellal had ever done to Erza was flashing through his mind mixed with the times he's spent with her and how now she'd never truly smiled, or laughed with him. There was always something behind her eyes that stopped her from fully enjoying herself and now he knew why. He knew who it was and why and it angered him immensely. His power was rising yet again as the cyan glow of break from left and his body was getting covered in his uncontrolled power of surge. He looked up and could see the small hole he made and though he was nearly at the bottom in a blur of motion he climbed the tower hopping off of debris.
It took him a second to fully ascend the tower again and he surprised Jellal when he landed in front of him in his surge form. Jellal looked annoyed,
"You just don't know how to stay down," he grimaced. Soler just glared at him with his blazing eyes. Jellal watched Soler begin to move and readied to counter but when a punch connected with his gut he wasn't prepared. In his pain-filled haze, he looked to see Soler closed the gap in a blink of an eye. He couldn't just let him go so he raised his hands to try and attack but Soler was gone from under him. Then a strong heel kick to his head sent him face-planted into the ground yet again. Soler landed away from him staring down at the fallen mage. Jellal struggled to stand back up, those last two attacks were far more powerful than his earlier. He stood breathing harder than before,
"I see that little form isn't just for show," he said shakily standing. Soler didn't respond but just continued to stare. That only angered Jellal who quickly entered a stance. Soler didn't move as he felt Jellal's magic rise. Then a light shined from above and Soler watched unfazed as six rays of lights shot down right on him. Jellal watched in satisfaction as his attack blasted the area in its holy light. The man burst into laughter,
"And in the end, his pride was his downfall," he boasted.
"You should remember to look before you leap," the laughter stopped and Jellal looked behind himself and jumped back as Soler was standing there looking untouched. Jellal was thoroughly confused that his attack missed. But he didn't have time to contemplate since in a blur of motion Soler gutted him again but this time he sent him flying into the sky. Erza watched everything unfold as she looked at Soler's form and a small smile spread on her face,
He hates that nickname of his but when he gets like this he really does become a blur. From the ground Soler watched Jella sail higher up. Soler then formed a spear and began to focus his energy in this last attack,
I know I could do that attack again. I just need to pour as much energy as possible into the spear without focusing on keeping the shape to the energy surge. Man, I didn't make that sound simple but whatever. As he thought this the spear was glowing brighter and brighter as the energy was rising. Jellal recovered mid-air and activated his magic to stay afloat. He was enraged from having to go all out against Soler,
"You will not stop my plans to resurrect him! I will kill you and destroy this entire tower if I have to!" he shouted. He placed both his arms together and readying to cast 'Grand Chariot'. The magic seals began to form and seven stars connected to start the powerful spell. Soler saw this and pumped more of his energy and the crackling bolt was forming quickly in his hand. But Jellal spell was faster and he was ready to unleash it,
Grand- he stopped the spell and held his side in pain. His eyes widen and he glanced at an astonishing looking Erza,
That strike from earlier. Jellal was taken out of his thoughts as he felt the uncontrolled power above him. He looked up and with wide fearful eyes looked to see Soler holding a literal bolt of green lighting in his hand. He looked into his rage-filled eyes as Soler shouted the attack,
Raging Tempest! With a mighty heave, he threw the attack at Jellal with blinding speed. The man was defenseless as the attack hit and dragged him down the side of the tower with intensity. They hit the water and he was dragged down into the depths of the dark ocean. Soler landed out of his surge form and looked backed,
"You'll never haunt her again," and with a snap of his fingers, the attack detonated with immense force and power. The entire tower began to shake violently and the ocean itself groaned as a whirlpool formed from the blast. Those at the bottom of the tower were lucky to be protected by the bubble as massive waves crashed violently over them. The whirlpool and intense waters lasted but for a few moments and as they settled so did the shaking of the tower. Soon everything stilled itself and all was silent. Soler stood and looked back out over the sea for another moment and then went over to his friends. He made it over to Erza who looked completely astonished,
"What was that attack?" she asked.
"Well it's still a work in progress for the name but it's the same attack I used against Laxus. Though that one was way more powerful than the one I just used. I call it Raging Tempest but I'm going to work on the name. Are you two alright?" he asked. Erza just nodded and looked over the still sleeping Natsu,
"He's sleeping soundly. I didn't expect the idiot to eat pure ethernano," she admitted. Soler sighed,
"Well, it is Natsu we're talking about here," A tense emotion-filled silence took them quickly after. There were plenty of questions Soler had and at this point, he refused to go without getting them answered. Erza knew she was going to have to tell him everything and for the first time, she wasn't afraid to tell him. If anything she wanted to tell him everything now. She was tired of hiding her past and he deserved to know it. However, he reacted she would deal with it but she knew that in telling him there would be a boundary broken between them and she'd be closer to him. And that's what scared her. But maybe if she was brave enough she could tell him that... A sudden rumbling broke the silence between them and the two looked around confused on what's going on. Weird bubbles were forming around them and on the rest of the tower and pieces of the tower were beginning to fall off.
"What's going on?" Soler worriedly questioned as he looked around. It took Erza a moment to realize exactly what was happening,
"All the built-up ethernano is still growing. With the battle damaging the tower all that raw power is starting to release. Meaning-"
"Meaning this tower is going to detonate. And how much power is in Etherion the detonation is going to be catastrophic," Soler finished her thought. Another violent shake forced him to stand as the ground beneath them began to split apart. Soler, in his quick action, grabbed Natsu and Erza then jumped to the other side. But Erza reached out for the other fallen man and Soler hurt knowing he couldn't do anything for him,
"I'm sorry Erza," she watched in sorrow as her friend disappeared into the falling tower. Now there were only the three of them on the detonating tower. Soler was already trying to think on what he could do. But before that, he quickly sensed for Gray and could feel he was still near the tower with Lucy. He then picked up Natsu much to Erza's confusion,
"Sorry Natsu you're going for a little ride," he then proceeded to throw Natsu off the edge of the tower hoping Gray gets him. He turned back to Erza's shocked expression,
"Don't worry Gray is down there with Lucy and Happy. He'll catch him. So now how do we stop the tower?" he asked mainly out loud. Erza knew what had to happen but didn't want to tell him. With another violent shake more of the tower fall apart around them and Soler was starting to look worried.
I can't let this tower blow. I gotta figure something out. Soler was so wrapped up in his thoughts he didn't notice that Erza wasn't where he left her. It was then he noticed that Erza had moved in front of one of the bubbles and reached her hand out to touch it. What he wasn't prepared for was her to push her hand into the bubble and watch as it slowly began to suck her in. He instantly went into a panic and raced over grabbing her,
"What do you think you're doing?" he demanded as he tried to pull her out to no avail. Erza held a sincere smile as her feet and legs were being drawn in,
"This is the only way to save everyone," she responded gently. He looked at her bewildered,
"What do you mean it's the only way? Erza we'll find another way just give me some time," his voice was full of panic and worry. Erza shook her head and now only her upper body and one arm were free.
"There is no. time. To stop the tower it needs a catalyst to control the blast. That's why Jellal brought me so someone could control this," she answered. Soler had stopped trying to pull her out since it seemed he couldn't stop it but his heart wasn't going to let things end like this. He had to figure something out he just had to. He wasn't going to let Erza sacrifice herself like this. He was nearly on the verge of tears from frustration but then a hand placed on his face making him look at Erza's gentle smile,
"Don't cry for me please. I've had a lot of fun spending time with you and being in the guild so I have no regrets.' At this point, Soler's tears started to flow as his world was breaking around him, "Without you or the guild I never would have learned to live, laugh, or even love. I'm not going to lie that there are still so many things that I want to tell you and I wish we had the time to just talk about everything," Erza paused getting choked up slightly but knew she had to finish.
"I watched you grow from that afraid boy to a strong dependable man and stood by your side all the way till the end and I've loved every moment we spent together. It was so much fun and I'll treasure every minute. And though I don't have much time there's something I need to say,' now only her head was still out and was quickly getting sucked in but before she was fully consumed she said one last thing,
"I love you, Soler," after that she was sucked in with tears in his eyes and a broken heart Soler beat against the bubble watching her drift away. Erza watched as the image of Soler grew further and further as the light around her grew brighter. With a few stray tears and a soft smile she the light consumes her.
Erza felt like she was drifting on air. She opened her eyes to see she was in a crystal void of light and she was wearing a white sundress. She just drifted in the void wondering if this is what the other side was. If it was it was very pretty to look at but it was very empty. Thinking about the emptiness made her wonder about her friends. She was able to stop the blast and save them from it so they could be happy. The thought of Soler popped up and her heart ached thinking about him.
I know he much like the guild will be in pain but they'll be happy in the end. She tried to reassure herself. It was then that a bright light shined in front of her and soon an image of a funeral was shown. It was a rainy dreary day and a group of people was standing before a grave. It was then that she realized that the people were members of her guild and the funeral was hers. She watched as Master was giving his parting words to her, barely being able to speak between his tears. She watched as her heart was being filled with sadness watching this but then storming up through the group came Natsu with a fire in his angered eyes. The fire mage kicked off the flowers set on her grave shocking everyone,
"Why are you guys crying? Erza's not dead! She can't be!" he roared. That caused some of the other males to come and restrain him keeping him from doing anything else. Lucy's crying only worsened at that,
"Natsu she's gone! Why can't you accept that?" she mourned through her tears. The dragon slayer was struggling hard as now his own tears were falling as he shouted Erza's name to the heavens. Erza herself couldn't stop herself from tearing up as her heart was hurting immensely,
They weren't supposed to get like this. They were supposed to be happy. She was glued to the scene and taking a good look it was then she noticed that one member wasn't there. At that moment the scene shifted to a familiar clearing in the forest still in the downpour. She had to hold her chest not prepared to see any of what happened next. She watched as several cloaked figures were walking up to someone's training. It was Soler, whose face couldn't be seen, but she watched as he just continued to punch into the training stump he uses. The cloaked figures came to a stop a few feet before him and it could be seen that they were part of the Magic Council. Soler didn't stop his half-hearted punches as they spoke,
"Soler Stratus. Since you were the closest to Miss. Starlet, we believe you should be the first to hear that as of recent events we have decided that Erza Scarlet will be an eternal of The Ten-Wizard Saints." the chairman declared. At that Soler stopped his attacking as his trembling fist was balled tightly,
"An eternal member of the Ten-Wizards Saints?' It was when he whipped around that Erza's heart shattered as she saw the constant stream of tears falling down his pained face, "That's a hollow title and you know it! Instead of giving her a title, why don't you bring her back!" he shouted, his voice full as much pain as his face gave. The scene faded and Erza was left with her head in her hands crying from what she'd seen. Her heart hurt more than she ever thought it could,
"I didn't want this. I didn't want any of them to hurt because of me," she cried out.
"What made you think we wouldn't be sad?" Erza picked her head up to see Soler standing before her. She stood up to look him in the eyes,
"I didn't know that this would happen. I didn't for you to be sad," she pleaded. He looked at her confused and stepped closer to her,
"Why did you think we wouldn't be sad?' he then walked right past her. But then he stopped but an arm reached away, "Erza you mean as much to us as we do to you. If I remember, you told me something similar once,' Soler then held out his hand for her and gave a soft smile. Erza reached out for his hand and when she grabbed it light emitted from the contact and it quickly consumed them both.
Erza slowly awoke to the sounds of gentle waves caressing the shore. As she slowly opened her eyes and she was met with the brilliant light of the stars dotting the night sky. But the red also noticed that she wasn't touching the water and it was then she realized Soler was holding her. She couldn't see his eyes because of his bangs but he was breathing very heavily sounding exhausted. The moment of being held didn't last as Soler's strength wore out and he dropped the two of them into the cold shallow waters. Erza sat up on her knees and saw she was still wearing the sundress,
"Erza promise me," she snapped out of her thoughts at the sound of his rough voice. It was then she could see that his falling tears yet his eyes were still unseeable,
"Promise me you won't ever do something like that again," his voice was breaking from trying to keep his composer, "Remember what you told me. You don't die for your friends, you live for them. So promise you'll live for us and with us forever," Erza felt her heart warm up at this and she brought their foreheads together as now tears of her own began to fall,
"I promise," and for the first time in years, Erza cried out of both of her eyes.
Soler sat with his arms crossed and eyes closed deep in thought. Currently, he was sitting in a hotel room with Lucy, Gray, Happy, and a sleeping Natsu on the bed. Erza had finished telling him everything about her past, starting from the Tower of Heaven to now. She even told him about how Jellal didn't use to be like that. Soler didn't speak once as she explained and was even silent now that it was over. And he was glad this was being said in private as well. From what she told him he was definitely planning to do some investigating in Zerif and his influence. But he pushed that to the side of his mind for later right now he was far more focused on the other important information, which there was a lot to unpack. With his silence, the air grew thick with worry and anticipation which would even keep Natsu from speaking. The other members didn't dare to speak as they waited. Though Erza was taking it the worst as she tried her best not to fidget in her seat waiting.
"So is that everything?" he finally asked, opening his eyes pointing them to Erza. She nodded,
"Yes that's everything.' her eyes looked to the floor as shame began to creep up, "I wanted to tell you about this but I just couldn't. I was too afraid," she admitted. He kept his gaze even as he watched her. Besides not looking back at him he could feel the sincerity in her voice. Which did count for something. He sighed and eased back into his chair,
"Well if that's all for now then that's all. I can understand the fear but holding that in was hurting you worse than I think you anticipated Erza. Personally, I fear that if none of this happened then you'd still have all of it bottled up. Like I said I understand why you would be afraid but a part of me feels hurt that you didn't trust me enough to tell me any of it. Even if it was in bits and pieces it'd be progress ya know," he explained. Erza's head lowered even more in knowing that he was right and from hearing how disappointed he sounded. If none of this happened then she would have kept it all in no matter what anyone did to try. Lucy and Gray felt he was being a bit too harsh on her but before they could speak Soler stood ready to leave,
"Either way I appreciate you telling me everything. And as much as I wish I could stay I have a feeling things are probably pretty hectic at the Magic Council. With Segrain being Jellal things are probably in chaos. Also added that I haven't gotten any summons from Ultear either means that she was either caught up in everything or was a part of said chaos. I wouldn't be surprised if it was the latter. Either way, I best see what they need," he was about to leave but Erza shot up out of her seat,
"Wait!" he stopped and looked back at her. With hopeful eyes, she looked at him,
"C-Can you stay please," she asked, sounding surprisingly fragile. It was the first time Gray had ever heard her sound like that before. Soler felt her need of wanting him there but he shook his head,
"Sorry, no can do. I got a job to do-' he quickly said. Erza slumped slightly in defeat,
"I understand," she responded. Soler then smirked,
"Yep I got a job to do and you need some time to think about what you want to talk to me about. I have a feeling it's a lot so this will be a good time to think," with that Soler exited the room leaving the rest looking at the door. Lucy let out a breath she didn't she was holding,
"Man, that was intense. I didn't think Soler could be harsh," she said looking worriedly to Erza. The blond was surprised to see that the red had a gentle smile on her face,
"He wasn't being harsh Lucy, just honest," she responded as a slight blush crossed her face.
Oh my god, I am done with this one. Man, this was over 11,000 words long! Like holy jezz I wasn't expecting this at all. But it's finally done I went through the date and Tower of Heaven in one chapter. Goodness gonna have to take a breather after this one. But I do have something to say and that is I will not be having Soler go through the whole Fantasia stuff. I know those who were wondering what he could have done with the Battle of Fairy stuff but in all honesty, I couldn't see a way for him to be apart of it and not take away Natsu and Gajeel fight Laxus or him being late and beating Everfree or something like that. I know the character enough to know he would try and handle them on his own and he could without too much problem which takes away from the other members getting their moments to shine ya know. So sorry to those hoping to see him in that but I will say that for the Oracion Seis arc I got plans for him and a surprise new character I made just for it. Again sorry but it's a decision I've made. Anyway please tell me what you guys think about this one since a lot happened in this one. Like a lot so a review would do me great in getting your thoughts. Anywho this has been Solerwolf...later.
(Has been slightly edited!)