Chapter 9 Stand by You by Rachel Platten

"Lucy the bath's ready for you." Emi called out as she walked out of the bathroom with a towel around her head. After so long of just taking showers taking a bath was relaxing especially when the celestial mage pointed out the different bubbles and treatments she could use. So out of instinct and the aroma helped with calming she chose the lavender. It didn't help that she grew it for herbal remedies and such. "Thanks for letting me use your tub again. Just know I'll be forever jealous of you because of it."

The hint of jealousy that Lucy noticed in her voice made her laugh. She just couldn't understand why people were so jealous over it. It was just a plain jane bathtub. It wasn't like it was encrusted in gold and large enough to fit a dozen or so people.

As she fluffed up a pillow, she couldn't help but smile. "I'm just glad you finally made it. I was starting to wonder if lightning rod had you tied up or something. I know none of my spirits would beat him because Natsu barely did it back during the festival."

A squeak escaped the farmer as heat gathered in her face. That kind of remark was to be expected out of Cana's mouth not Lucy. Shaking her head, she tried to cool herself down and rid herself of the preserve thought that tried to invade her mind. That was never going to happen especially with Laxus. "L-Lucy! No!"

Stopping herself as she walked into the kitchen to clean up the dishes she looked back at the woman. Her eyebrow rose as she noticed the blush, but she didn't let the smirk she felt tugging at her lips come through. "Are you sure on that? The Laxus I came to know was a jerk and only cared for himself. So, when I see him with you kinda said otherwise."

It wasn't like she asked him to tag along like he at the last minute did. Any other time he was off doing his own thing so for him to grab her bag and follow her to Lucy's was odd. Was it because she broke down in front of him about being alone? It wasn't like she was trying to guilt him into doing the gesture, but it made her happy for some reason. Maybe she had gotten so used to his company that it was second nature now.

But it was still odd. Emi would even admit to that. To dismiss those confusing thoughts that made her dizzy she shook her head. "You heard him. He was on his way to meet up with Bixlow to get something to eat. That was all."

Lie. Those were excuses to cover for the both of them. Lucy could see that from a mile away. She also could tell the protectiveness Laxus was emanating was like how Natsu was from the countless times he saved her. She could also recognize the territorial protection that the lightning mage was giving off even if it was by accident or not. It had to be the dragon in him, but she wasn't about to leave her apartment to hunt him down and ask him something personal. That was just asking him to fry her especially if he treated her like how he did Natsu when he got on his nerves.

The look of suspicion and curiosity covered the blonde's face which worried her a lot. It was almost like Cana and Mira were rubbing off on her. "I promise. I see no reason for him to lie and all that."

A slow nod answered the farmer. It didn't mean there wouldn't be any more interrogation from anyone else that showed up and found out about the information. Knowing how Cana was and lack of filter she was going to make the girl bear it all in front of them.

As if on cue a knock echoed through the apartment along with a rather loud hiccup. How that girl was still alive and not possibly laid up in the hospital with alcohol poisoning was beyond the both of them.

"I'll get it." Emi called out slightly as she went to the door.

She should have regretted getting the door. It was Cana who was the one that knocked and most likely was drunk enough for multiple people. But she opened it without a care in the world and couldn't help the scream that came. Nor did it help when the drunk mage grabbed her breasts.

"C-Ca-Cana get off me!"

"Ah come on. Just one squeeze." The card mage whined as she squeezed more than once. "You definitely aren't as big as some of us. C cup at most."

"You've already went past once." Emi squeaked as she tried to pry the other woman off her. She didn't enjoy it and the squeezing honestly felt like it was getting harder.

"Cana get off her so we all can get inside." Erza's stern voice caused Lucy to almost drop a plate since she was so used to it being directed or somewhat directed at her.

"Fine." Cana whined as she let go, crossing her arms much like a spoiled child would. "Party pooper."

Once the grip was gone the auburn-haired farmer ran to the other side of the room to ensure distance between her and the drunk wizard. It earned a few giggles from Levy and Wendy as the small group came walking in. She wasn't expecting or wanting to be groped by a guildmate.

"I haven't had a chance to get the futons out yet. We just got done with dinner." Lucy chimed in as she set another dish in the drying rack. She already knew if Natsu was there then some would be broke because he didn't have any respect for her things it seemed like. Almost all of Team Natsu seemed to be that way.

"I'll get them." The reequip mage stated as she walked off to the closet. "Hey Juvia, can you lend me a hand?"

Emi's gaze widened slightly when she finally noticed the water mage walk out from behind a beam. How did she not notice her? Unless it was when Cana was feeling her up was when she came in.

After the last bit of dishes were done and futons rolled out was when everyone started to relax. The stress from the latest enemy seemed to slowly melt away from them except Emi since she had no part of it.

"So, what should we do? Watch scary movies? Do our makeup? All that cliché girly stuff?" Cana rambled with a grin.

They glanced around the room with Carla sitting in Wendy's lap looking somewhat annoyed. Though that seemed to be the usual expression on the white exceed's face. It was like they didn't know what to do now that they were all there. It wasn't like they hadn't been on requests before together and spent nights together.

"I know what we could do since no one has any idea. Spin the bottle." A male voice answered causing Lucy to pale as his name automatically entered her mind. Everyone's attention turned to the celestial spirit that appeared on the couch next to the blond with a smirk on his face.

"Loke!" She squealed as she stood up. Surprise was clearly written on her face as it reddened in what everyone assumed was embarrassment. Slowly shock crossed her face as she bent down to get into the man's face though she knew he understood she wasn't trying to be menacing. "I didn't summon you!"

"Well I can't help but overhear what you ladies were talking about. Since it seems like you can't decide on what to do, I had to come out to suggest something." The spirit argued with a small shrug.

He had a point but for him to suggest that was crossing the line. No way they could take part in that type of game. Cana would be the type that would, but she would be the only one willing. Which Emi had to admit scared her since she didn't know the bikini top mage well. Wendy was also there, and she was the youngest out of all of them so there was no way she should witness or participate in something like that.

"No way will that ever happen. Its all-girls so knowing you you'll get a kick from it along with Cana. Now leave Loke." Lucy ordered as she pointed her finger once more at the spirit. She even went as far as to narrow her eyes to add more of a threatening look to her.

A small shrug escaped Loke as he smirked. "Fine. Just keep in mind for when you guys get bored."

A cloud of smoke took over where he once sat leaving the farmer speechless. He looked and sounded familiar but from where? Looking over at the flustered blond that kept shaking her fist at thin air she raised an eyebrow.

"Um Lucy who was that?" Emi questioned.

"Loke. I'm sure if he showed up in the clothing and haircut that he had when he was living in the human world you would recognize him. He's Leo the lion for the zodiac spirits." The celestial mage explained. It didn't surprise her in the slightest. Most people didn't know that he was a celestial spirit back in the day.

A soft and slow nod answered her as she digested the information. The fact that there was so many members in the guild at one time while she was growing up made it hard for her to remember who was who. If she saw how he looked as a member then it might make it easier for her to remember.

"Hey guys I know what we can play. Truth or dare. Even something similar where you share a secret or something people might not know about you." Lisanna piped. Emi forgot about her. Wasn't she dead or lost?

"Those type of games are a lot more fun with a little bit of alcohol added into the mix. Trust me on this one." Cana added as a fox like grin crossed her face.

"Some of us aren't exactly legal to drink so that wouldn't work." The takeover mage argued.

"Well how about for right now we do something typical of a sleepover and watch a movie. Any genre." Levy suggested as she lightly put her hands together. Looking around the room she noticed a few nods and shrugs as answers. "And to pick the movie we'll have one of Lucy's spirits pick it out."

A couple of girls in the group nodded while the others voiced their agreeance. It was an easy way to settle the decision since it was a third party.

"Who would do it though? Knowing Loke he would choose one that is romantic or cheesy romantic. Cancer might do a movie we never heard of or genre we might get bored with. I will not call Aquarius since she's probably with Scorpio." The blond rambled as she tapped her finger against her chin.

"Why not have Plue decide?" Wendy hinted.

"Good idea Wendy. He can stay to watch if he wants to." Lucy agreed then grabbed the silver key off the keychain on the coffee table. Holding it out a small smile graced her face as she felt the all too familiar magical surge course through her body and gather in her hand. "Gate of the Canis Minor open."

A puff of smoke appeared out of nowhere much like with Loke. It quickly dissipated and showed the dog like creature with a pointed nose standing on the coffee table. Looking up at his key owner the celestial spirit raised a paw and let out a greeting.

Squatting down Lucy smiled as she patted the dog's head gently. "Alright Plue why don't you pick a movie out for us to watch? We can't decide and no one wants to be bored if we all take turns picking one out."

A nod answered her as the white dog hopped off the table and walked over to the small bookcase that had rows of movies. Its eyes scanned the spines as it looked over the titles. Every so often it would stop and hesitate before going on with the search. Even when it got to the end it restarted the search.

After what felt like a few minutes it stopped and pointed at one. Lucy grabbed it and looked at the cover. "To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything Julia Newmar."

Quickly she popped it into the player and settled on the couch with Plue in her lap.

Emi glanced at the screen and raised an eyebrow. She had never heard of this movie or seen any type of advertisement for it. Looking back at the blond only to see her transfixed with the movie she let out an inaudible sigh. No way was she going to get Lucy out of her stupor to answer her question.

Getting on her knees she crawled around the small group that made up the female population of Fairy Tail. As soon as she was close, she grabbed the case and tried to read the synopsis as best she could while trying to pay attention to it. It was definitely different than the usual movies she was used to. But anymore she had to deal with action or horror because of Laxus.

"Hey Emi." Cana whispered with a small wave to get the young farmer's attention.

Looking over she automatically covered herself in case the card mage tried anything like last time. Knowing her she would do something other than grabbing her breasts. "Y-Yeah?"

"So, I have to ask. Are you and Laxus fuck buddies or something? Because I can give you a few pointers if you would like." Cana questioned as another fox like grin crossed her face slowly.

A squeak of embarrassment escaped the auburn-haired woman as she covered her reddening face with the case. At least she could cover most of it. As a few squeaks and groans escaped her she shook her head even as she felt dizzy from the action. She couldn't do that kind of thing even if it was considered normal, but it was Laxus. He wasn't like that to her and probably never will be. "N-No! I just opened my home to him since he didn't have a place to stay besides camping. Along with the fact that he blackmailed me but that's kinda beside the point."

Slowly the drunk woman nodded but she didn't buy it. Most women seemed to automatically fall for Laxus at first sight unless they were attracted to the same sex. She wouldn't hesitate to say she had a crush on the guy and enjoyed a romp in bed with him a time or two. He was considered a walking wet dream even for someone that tried to get his mismatched family killed. "Uh . . . huh."

Pressing the hard plastic to her face Emi tried to calm herself as best as she could. Maybe agreeing to stay with Lucy in front of the guild was a bad idea. It wasn't like she knew everyone. The only people she did know well enough besides Makarov was Natsu, Gajeel, and Wendy from them allowing her to refresh their memories of their dragon parents. Laki and Levy were close to her at least that's how she felt. She didn't know how they felt about her.

"Besides even if he was single, I have no chance with him. I'm too plain and boring for him. Then there's the fact that he's with Mira so I'm completely out of luck." She whispered more to herself then to Cana. Lowering her gaze, she stared at her lap instead of paying attention to the movie.

"Big sis and Laxus aren't together anymore actually. They broke up on Tenrou Island before Acnologia attacked." Lisanna blurted out then looked away sheepishly. "Sorry. I couldn't help but overhear."

A shrug was the only answer she got from the farmer as she got to her feet. She needed some air and time alone. Time alone was all she really wanted or at least just her and Lucy. Not a huge group of people that should be trying to play catch up with the seven years they lost. If she had been in their shoes, then she would be trying all kind of catching up.

"Um how about we drop the topic and have some fun? How about some games while we watch the movie?" Levy brought up as she noticed the situation. They didn't need anyone being miserable because of rumors or Cana being a drunken pervert.

"I just need some air. I'll be right back." Emi stated with a shake of her head. It wasn't like she wanted to ruin the good mood everyone was in but at the same time she couldn't help how she felt. For someone to go and suggest that unnerved her. Even to hear that he was single and living in her house didn't help that wonderful rumor mill. "Just give me a few minutes."

As she walked out, she heard a sharp yelp and groan.

"What was that for Erza?!"

"For being a complete idiot."

Heading down the steps she quickened her pace to get outside. Even when she stepped out and felt the cool breeze, she felt like she needed to run and hide. It all but reminded her of how weak she actually was compared to the rest of the guild. Emotionally, mentally, and physically she was the weakest.

Sitting on the cool stones that lined the canal she dipped her toes into the chilled water. It had to help bring her back to her senses much like splashing cold water into her face. That was if it helped.

Lowering her head, she watched the water ripple out of the corner of her eye. Even for how late it was getting the streets were still busy. It wasn't like a festival or something special was going so people must be out enjoying themselves.

"You didn't go far. Some of us figured you went to the park or back to your place." Lucy's voice startled her even if she heard her footsteps. She just figured it was another person walking back however so she paid no mind to it.

Turning around and meeting her gaze she sighed. "No. Like I need you to get in trouble by Master for my weakness. Besides for all I know Laxus is probably partying it up there with random women or something like that so I would be just a hindrance."

"Nonsense. You got overwhelmed and Cana was being a jerk. I would have done what you did if I was in your shoes." She replied as she sat down next to the farmer. Tucking her hands underneath her thighs she smiled. "So, what kind of magic do you have if you have any? Let's help you get relaxed again."

An auburn eyebrow rose as she glanced at her. No one usually asked about her type of magic because they've seen her use it on Natsu and the others. But Lucy did have a lot on her plate especially now that she was trying to gain those seven years back that she lost.

Silence stretched between them as Emi looked down at her pair of sweats. The only noise was the soft trickling of the canal and various noises from passersby. She should have been used to any kind of noise from the amount she had to deal with on the farm though she couldn't understand what those creatures were saying. People tend to judge with one look unless they were brave and kind enough to stop to see if they could do anything to help.

"If you don't―"

"Its dream and memory magic. I always thought it was kind of weird that I had two instead of one like most people. Papa said a long time ago that they go hand in hand like yin and yang. People tend to dream about old memories all the time, but I never understood what he meant growing up. Now, obviously I do."

As Lucy digested the information she slowly nodded. It made sense since she would admit she had dreamt about her father since learning of his passing. Sometimes they were of when they were happier and actually showed they were a family. Other times was when they fought to see who would get the upper hand like when he sent Phantom Lord to retrieve her.

"So . . . when Natsu and the others ask you to help them keep their parents in their thoughts you just conjure up an image of them?"

"Yes and no. I can go through their memories which is taxing. I feel their emotions during that time period." She answered as she kicked her feet lightly. She could remember all the pain and sorrow they went through after their parents disappeared. "I can pick out a moment involving the two of them like a bonding time. One of them that I really enjoyed bringing back for Natsu was him riding on his father's back with the wind through his hair. I never felt such an innocent happiness before then."

Lucy's gaze dropped to her lap as she thought back to all the moments she had with her father. Most of them were them being at each other's throats especially after her mother passed away and he devoted most of his time to the business. The moments she did feel fondness for were far and in between.

"Why do you ask Lucy? Do you want me to help you remember something from the past?" The shorter woman questioned though she was partly afraid to ask. One look at the girl and she looked like one touch was enough to break her. It was something she understood well since she had been in that pit of despair for so long.

"Please. I would appreciate it greatly." She whimpered as her bottom lip trembled. Even for a short while it would ease the pain or make it more difficult to bear. Either way it was a win or lose because she was only reliving the past. Quickly she rubbed at her eyes in an attempt to get rid of the oncoming tears that burned at her eyes.

She nodded and got up with a stretch. "Let's head inside. As much as I like being outside, I don't trust the night. It hides too many things that don't need to be acknowledged."

Lucy nodded and stared up at the petite hand that was stretched out towards her. She was so used to seeing Natsu's larger, calloused hands that she felt like she was off on a quest by herself. The only thing that was similar was the callouses that covered parts of Emi's hand from working on the farm for so long.

With no other hesitation the celestial mage took the offered hand and got up. Their pace was rhythmic with no rushing back into the apartment.

"About time you're back. I was starting to wonder if we would have to send a search party." Cana whined as she waved a half empty bottle around.

It wasn't like they were gone for long or went across town. Emi thought about it, but word would get back to Makarov and her punishment would be extended. Like she needed that because being away from the place she called home made her antsy as if she was expecting something to happen.

"Calm down. We were just by the canal talking so there was nothing to worry about." Lucy replied as she shrugged. In a brisk walk she sat down on the bed and patted beside her as her gaze fell onto the farmer. Though she didn't blame Emi to stay standing by the door in case Cana tried anything again. "Come on Emi. Show me what you're capable of."

A soft, meek nod answered her as she slowly made her way over to the blond. She couldn't help but keep glancing at the card mage as if she was going to pounce at any moment. Even as she sat down on the plush fabric, she did just that because she didn't trust her. Her nerves weren't helping the matter since it seemed like everyone's attention was now on her.

Softly Lucy patted her shoulder with a smile. She could put herself in her shoes especially when she was first starting out on the journey to get to Fairy Tail. There were so many times that she thought it was a bad idea because she had no idea on how things were going to turn out.

"It'll be okay. Take all the time you need." Levy encouraged, taking the words right out of the blonde's mouth.

Bowing her head, she stared at her lap. She could do it. It wasn't like she used to do this in front of a bigger crowd so a smaller crowd shouldn't be that big of a deal. But the pressure was starting to get her even as she tried to take deep breaths to try to calm herself down. Laying her head back she let her shoulders fall before turning attention to the woman next to her. "Um . . . Lucy can you lay your head down on my lap?"

"Of course." She chimed and laid down just like she was asked. She felt it was a little awkward but then again, she never seen her do it before so this might be the best way for her to connect with the memories. She wasn't sure but she was going to put her full trust in her.

As soon as her head touched her lap, she felt the trembling that was coming from her. If it was from fear or being outside, she wasn't for sure. Either way she wanted to wrap her up in a futon and call it quits. There was always another chance.

Gently Emi placed her hands on Lucy's temples and tried to focus. It had been over seven years give or take since she used this spell so she had to be rusty. But she had to focus and do it. It was obvious that Lucy believed in her so it also could mean the other girls did too.

"Memory recollection." She whispered as she felt the high from her magic energy surge into her hands. It was so familiar but foreign at the same time that she wasn't sure to smile or not. Deep down she knew that it felt good to be using it again.

Closing her eyes, she took in all the memories that were made over the years by the celestial mage. Some made her own painful past look like a walk in the park, but she wasn't about to dredge them up. All she wanted to find was a happy memory that could possibly ease the pain that Lucy felt from her father's passing.

After what felt like forever, she found out that pleased her enough. "Right there."

The image of a younger, innocent version of Lucy came to her mind. It had to be dusk or already dark because she was wearing a nightgown bouncing on the bed with a doll in hand.

"Mama! Read me a story please." Lucy begged with a soft giggle hidden in her voice.

A woman dressed in a pale blue evening gown entered the picture. From what Emi could tell from the dress and the way her hair was neatly done up she was going to be going to a party. She looked exactly like Lucy, so she now knew who she took after.

"My dear. Your father and I must get going." Her mother argued slightly.

The smile that was on the young girl's face slowly faded into a frown as she slowly stopped her bouncing. The idea of her parents leaving her obviously broke her heart as her arms dropped to her side. Repeatedly she shook her head as if she was throwing a temper tantrum which Emi wouldn't blame her if she was in her shoes. "No. Read me a story."

A sigh escaped her mother as she lightly patted the front of her dress. The had to get going or they would be late. At the same time, she did just want to change out of the suffocating dress and into her own sleepwear. The thought of being a normal parent and reading her child a bedtime story pleased her more than being surrounded by strangers.

"Please Mama. Just one. One story."

The sound of the door opening caught both of their attention. Most of the time it was a maid coming in to check on Lucy. Instead of the usual older woman that came a second mother over the years her father stood in the doorway lightly tugging at the bowtie he had on.

"What is taking so long?" His voice wasn't rough but there was a slight impatience in it as he glanced down at his watch.

"Mama won't read me a story."

Suddenly the image of the three Heartfilia's blurred into nothing. It was almost like losing the signal to a radio station you liked or a storm knocking out the power as a good part of the movie was about to happen.

"Um Emi are you okay? You're kinda smothering me right now." Lucy questioned cautiously as she stared at the stomach of the farmer from where she slumped over her.

Everyone else in the room watched curiously as the scene unfolded. No answer was given by the auburn-haired woman which caused worry to get Levy to look at her face as best as she could.

"Guys what's going on?" Lucy questioned as she felt panic race through body. Her stomach felt like it was on the verge of jumping out as she looked around.

Levy pushed on the young woman enough to get a good look. A small smirk graced her face as she looked down at her friend. "I think she might have passed out. Her body probably isn't use to that kind of experience since she's so used to suppressing it. Almost like the opposite of using it all until you have any."

A small wave of her hand came from the blond as she felt relief flood her system. Sitting up she looked at the blank, sleeping look that crossed Emi's face. At least it wasn't something serious like she was afraid it would be.

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