The Future Is Ours

By: juvia0613 (aka FayeValentine00)

Wendy Marvell

After the 100 Year Quest ended and Team Natsu returned to Fairy Tail, Wendy helped to care for all the new additions to the guild and she loved it. She enjoyed helping to babysit the children, playing games with them and watching them grow. She had become a pro at changing diapers, burping babies and rocking them to sleep. It'd practically become a full-time job.

However, as she grew up, Wendy realized that aside from jobs and battles, she hadn't really had a chance to see a lot of the world around her. Slowly she realized that what she really wanted to do was travel and learn more about the world outside of her Fairy Tail safety net.

Beginning at 17, Wendy began to speak with Carla about traveling and visiting new places. Fairy Tail would always be her home and her family yet she couldn't help but feel like there was something else out in the world for her to see. However, every time she spoke to Carla about it, she would back down when reminded of how lucky she was to have such a wonderful family all around her.

It wasn't until x798 that she finally put her desires into motion. One night after all the children and most of the adults had gone to bed, Wendy stayed up to drink with Cana since Shayla was with her father at Quatro Cerberus for the night. Over the years, the brown-haired beauty had become a close friend and Cana was the only one who'd always tell Wendy what she needed to hear, not necessarily what she wanted to hear. That night, after a few drinks, Wendy felt her defenses breakdown and she ended up telling Cana exactly how she felt.

"No matter how old I get, everyone is always treating me like a child or a little sister. I'm the same age now that Lucy was when we defeated Acnologia yet they still act like I am too small to make my own decisions! I'm a grown woman. I want to be treated like it! I just want to see what it would be like to take care of myself for once!" With frustrated tears, made worse by the alcohol, Wendy vented to Cana desperately.

"Then do it," the elder girl told her bluntly, swinging her bottle wildly towards the door. "Go out there! See the world! Be an adult! Then run back and tell us everything you've learned."

Wendy's jaw dropped in shock at the simple solution that Cana laid out for her. She made it sound so easy but was it, really? Could she just go? "D-Do you really think I can?"

"Look Wendy, if you want to be treated like an adult, you have to act like one. If people can't see that you've grown up, you just have to show them, right?"

Wendy's mind was blown. Sure, it would be risky to leave and try to figure things out on her own, but she also felt like it was the only way that they would take seriously her as an adult in the guild. She'd never even had a boyfriend! It was time to just go out and live for a while. She would figure out the rest later. Regardless of what Carla said, Wendy knew that this was something she needed to do. With the decision made, the Dragon Slayer felt a huge smile spread across her face.

"You're right!", she exclaimed, jumping up to her feet. "I'm gonna do it!"

"Well said," Cana laughed boisterously, raising her bottle in salute.

A few days later, Wendy and Carla said goodbye to her friends and set off to explore more of the world. Little did Wendy know, it would be five years before she saw them again.

For a few months, Wendy and Carla traveled around the continent visiting towns, countries and sites they'd never seen before. A few times she came in to contact with old friends and contacts from her previous jobs but, mostly, everyone she met and spoke with were new and exciting and had all sorts of different ways of looking at the world. They quickly learned that every town had its own traditions, festivals and superstitions. Wendy became immersed in all kinds of historical facts and places. It was fascinating.

One day in early x799, the sun was glowing in a cloudless sky when Carla and Wendy arrived at a small lakeside town in the country of Bellum. As the ladies flew along the water's edge, they were drawn to a large meadow filled with wildflowers of every color imaginable. Even from the sky they could smell their sweet fragrance and the partners decided that it was the best possible place for a short break.

Wendy laid down among a cluster of Forget-Me-Nots and allowed the warm breeze to caress her bare shoulders and arms. This place, with its majestic mountains to East and the seemingly endless waters to the West, was exactly the sort of place she'd been hoping to find when she set out from Fairy Tail. The peaceful beauty of the scenery gave her a chance to ponder exactly what she wanted out of life. Yet, as beautiful as it was, Wendy was missing home, her friends and even the excitement of the guildhall. She was beginning to think that it was time to head home and get back to work.

The Sky Dragon Slayer had been so wrapped up in her thoughts that she hadn't noticed the man approach until Carla jumped to her feet and positioned herself in front of Wendy, fully alert.

"I see you found my meadow." The man spoke in a deep baritone that resonated deep within Wendy. She couldn't put a finger on the sensation but it was not unpleasant.

The way the man gestured around him gave an air of possessiveness and only then did the bluenette realize that they might be trespassing. With a tinge of panic, Wendy jumped to her feet and slapped her hands together apologetically. "Is this your land?! I'm so sorry! We were just flying by and stopped for a look. We can go right away and-"

Her words broke off when the man laughed, a deep, friendly sound. Only when she finally looked up to meet his eyes, did she realize that she was looking at the most attractive man she'd ever seen. That was saying a lot because Wendy had quite a few attractive men in her acquaintance.

He looked to be in his mid 20's and was very tall like Laxus but his build was lean and muscular like Sting. He had very light blonde hair and the most brilliant, clear blue eyes that seemed to look right through you. His clothes were nice and gave the impression of understated wealth and the way he carried himself with confidence.

By the time man finished laughing, Wendy realized too late that she'd been gawking. With cheek burning, she turned her eyes away and fought to regain her composure. Thankfully, he saved her from having to speak when he made the first introductions.

"My name is Dugal. Dugal Apollyon. And yes, this entire area is mine," he said, gesturing in a broad arc before pointing to a cluster of trees to the south. "My home is just there beyond those trees. May I ask whom I have the pleasure of speaking with?"

Wendy opened her mouth to respond but Carla beat her to it. Her lifelong friend and partner used her bossiest tone as she spoke, exposing the fact that she didn't trust the man. "My name is Carla, and we were just passing through."

"Well, that's a shame." Dugal sounded genuinely disappointed. Despite who was speaking, his brilliant eyes never left Wendy's. "And who, may I ask, is your beautiful companion?"

"I-I'm Wendy Marvell." The words came out almost automatically because she was stunned. Wendy couldn't recall ever being called beautiful before. Cute? Yes. Adorable? Yes. But never beautiful.

"Nice to meet you, Wendy," he replied with a dazzling smile that was a perfect match for his good looks. "I do hope you'll stay for a little while. It's not often that a lovely woman just falls from the sky." He jokes, pointing into the air to imply he'd seen their approach.

Did he just compliment her again?! Her heart was pounding in her chest as she chuckled self-consciously. It occurred to her that Dugal might also be the most charming man she'd ever met. "I guess not," she managed awkwardly.

Carla watched the scene unfold and wasn't quite sure how to proceed. She wanted to protect Wendy but from what? Even she could appreciate how attractive he was, and the man had done nothing to be concerned about other than shower her friend with some long overdue compliments, so she said nothing. Instead, she stepped back and watched as Wendy and Dugal chatted casually about their travels, Bellum and about all the interesting nearby places they might enjoy during their stay.

Having lost track of time, it was early evening when Wendy felt her stomach growl. That was a clear sign they'd stayed too long but the Dragon Slayer wasn't the slightest bit upset about it. She'd spent the entire afternoon speaking to a man who was both interesting and interested. It was an experience she knew she wouldn't forget even long after she returned to Fairy Tail.

As their conversation wrapped up, Dugal reluctantly climbed to his feet before holding out his hand to help her up. It was such a simple gesture and one that her many "big brothers" had done for her many times in the past but it was the first time it'd made her heart skip a beat.

"Are you sure I can't persuade you to stay for dinner?", he asked her with a slight pout that made his handsome face appear more childish and playful.

"Thank you but no," Wendy sighed, glancing over at Carla who seemed more than ready to be on their way. She truly was too overprotective. "We need to get back."

The ladies were just about to leave when Dugal reached out taking Wendy's right hand in both of his. Surprised, the blue-haired girl looked up and their eyes met again. "Can I see you again tomorrow?"

Her answer left her lips before she'd even had time to consider the consequences. "Sure. I'd like that."

Her smile matched his and then Carla swept her up and away from the beautiful meadow owned by the most captivating man the wizard had ever met.

As promised, the following day Wendy and Carla returned to the field where Dugal was waiting with a welcoming smile. Wendy felt her pulse quicken. It was a whole new sensation for the young woman who'd never given her own love life much attention before now.

"Welcome back, Wendy" he greeted, leading her to a blanket he'd laid out complete with a basket and cushions. He'd provided them with a picnic.

"And you as well, Carla." Dugal reached out to shake the hand of the Exceed in her human form. Wendy was busy taking in the surroundings and wasn't paying attention to the exchange when the man met Carla's eyes rather intensely. "Do you like it here?" he asked her, a hint of authority in his tone.

"Yes, I do," the answer coming immediately. "It's beautiful."

"Don't you think that you could be happy living here?" It sounded more like a statement than a question, his serious voice concealed behind a dazzling smile.

"Yes, I do." Even Carla was a little confused at how confident she was answering his questions but she meant the words she spoke. Bellum was beautiful and it seemed like an idyllic place to live. She suddenly realized that this lakeside home would be the perfect place to lay down roots.

His eyes never left Carla's as he pressed a little further. "Would you mind terribly, giving me some time alone with Wendy? I'd like to get to know her better."

Some tiny part of the Exceed rejected the idea. She was still Wendy's protector, adult or not, and she needed to keep the girl safe. But, when she looked at Dugal, he appeared so sincere and nonthreatening. When pressed, she couldn't think of a single good reason to deny him. However, when she did not immediately answer, Dugal brought his face a little closer with a conspiratorial gleam in those clear, perfect eyes. "Please, Carla?"

"Okay." The word came out of her mouth of its own volition and she nodded. Deep in her heart, she was overcome with the warm confidence that everything would be fine.

"Wendy, I'm going into town to pick up a few things. I'll be back later." Then, without waiting for a reply, Carla reverted to her cat form and flew off towards town.

"Carla?!" Wendy felt shocked. She hadn't been paying attention to their conversation. Her partner hadn't left her side for more than five minutes since their trip began. Now Carla'd gone off and left her with a man they'd only just met, far away from another living soul. It didn't make any sense. She was about to call her back when Dugal took Wendy's hand in his, drawing her attention.

When their eyes met, the Dragon Slayer was sure her heart would burst. He was so ridiculously handsome, and the look of admiration on his face made her beautiful.

"Carla will be back soon. Let's take this time to talk." A warm, calming sensation flowed through her body, wiping away her concerns and replacing them with contentment. "I'd really love to get to know you better," he breathed, moving closer to her on the blanket.

"Me too," she admitted easily, and she meant it. Wendy had hardly slept the night before. This unbelievable man had even invaded her dreams, and she'd already pinned a few ridiculous hopes on this man she barely knew.

His finger trailed across the guild stamp on her bare arm, causing goosebumps to rise. His touch felt warm to her cool skin, creating a delicious feeling of anticipation. "Fairy Tail?"

"Yes." A smile crossed her face as she thought about her friend's back home and she was a little surprised that he recognized the guild stamp. "I've been a member since I was twelve."

He continued to look her in the eyes with their hands intertwined. "Then would you be the same Wendy Marvell that is the Sky Dragon Slayer?"

Her mouth fell open. How could he know that? Why would he know that? Although it seemed crazy, those questions and the underlying concern were only fleeting. Her thoughts quickly turned to pleasure at the idea that he'd even bothered to take an interest in her. She rationalized his knowledge with the idea that if he'd ever read Sorcerers Weekly, Dugal could probably recognize her easily. So after the slightest hesitation, she answered him warmly.

"Yes, but I'm not nearly as amazing as Natsu or Gajeel… Or even Sting and Rogue," she added quickly. She didn't want him to expect too much from her.

"Oh, I wouldn't say that," he practically purred in his deep baritone. "You're the young woman who's held her own with those men for years. Are you not?"

"I guess so," she managed breathlessly.

For the next several hours the couple spoke about everything. Wendy told him about her friends, the guild and their adventures. She told him things she would normally have protected as guild secrets yet Dugal made her feel completely at peace. The warm, calm sensation she felt in his presence was like a salve to her soul. When she was with him, she realized that she didn't want to be alone anymore. Having this perfect man to take care of her seemed to be the most perfect dream imaginable.

In return, Dugal explained that he worked as a merchant under his father. He told her about his accomplishments in their family business and how they'd seen major growth in the last few years. He also told her about the area near his home and explained that it was a perfect place to raise a family. As they spoke, Wendy realized that she was falling for him, and when he moved in for a kiss, her first kiss, she didn't resist.

His lips brushed hers ever so gently, lingering just long enough to cause Wendy's heart to race. Her eyes closed on their own accord when he moved back in for another kiss. This time he stayed and his fingers wound themselves into her hair, holding her closer. She savored each moment they touched and before long she'd wrapped her arms around his neck, clinging tightly. The experience was delicious and Wendy thought that if she could have this experience every day, she'd never leave.

After that, Dugal and Wendy saw each other every day, sometimes joined by Carla and other times they were able to enjoy each other's company alone. With every meeting, the Dragon Slayer fell more and more in love with him. And as she fell deeper in love, her desire to return to Magnolia waned.

Within a month, he'd completely won them over. Wendy and Carla moved into his perfect little lakeside cottage just near the meadow where they'd first met. In that home, Wendy felt a sense of peace and she was never lonely. In fact, Wendy had never felt happier than she did when she was in Dugal's arms. Her happiness was all-encompassing. His home became hers and she never looked back.

Early into their relationship, Wendy thought about writing to her friends to check in and pass along her contact information but each time she'd begun, she'd found herself putting it off. Either something came up, or she became distracted. Either way, she never sent the intended message and eventually she simply didn't remember to write at all.

Although Dugal and Wendy never married, they welcomed their son, Kichirou, into the world during the summer of x800. Two years later, they welcomed a daughter named Piper, in the Fall of x802. Both children had blue hair like their mother and they were blessed with the brilliant blue eyes of their father.

Wendy's number one focus was her children. Since she'd never known her own parents, she wanted to ensure that Kichirou and Piper understood just how much their parents loved them. Dugal doted on his children. He was home every night to tuck them in. His biggest joy was taking them on walks along the lake in the evenings while Wendy made dinner.

Every night Dugal focused his attention on Wendy. He'd look deep into her eyes and tell her just how much he loved her. He would hold her in his arm and cherish her, never allowing her a moment to doubt his love.

Before she knew it, more than four years had passed without a single note to her friends. It never occurred to her that her Fairy Tail family would be worried and she never dreamed that they'd put out a search party for the missing women. To Wendy, everything that'd happened in her life before meeting Dugal simply felt a dream.

Wendy's new life with Dugal and their children was perfect. Instead of worrying about the past, she'd moved forward trying to create the best possible home for her loved ones.